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Is it true, that in this economic climate, that you truly need 20% down to purchase a first home?

Profile picture for EMHulit
Contributions: 1
What is the minimum that you can put down w/o getting turned away?
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April 05 - Wayne
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Answers (10)

Profile picture for Jason Bonas
Real Estate Agent
Contributions: 112
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Since November 2009

lol, are you guys aware that this question is from April? Consquently I would make reference to this month a lot when I talk to buyers who want to buy w/ little out of pocket lol (how ironic)
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6 days ago
Profile picture for TEX Realtor
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Since November 2009

The simple answer is no..FHA loans require a minimum 3.5% down. With a VA loan you do not need a down at all. Conventional loans can range from 5% to 20% depending on your credit. Keep in mind some municipalities offer certain zero down programs or bond money for first time home buyers. Talk to a Realtor in your community for assistance guiding you in the right direction. If you need me to refer you one let me know. Hope this helps.  
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6 days ago
Profile picture for LindseySells07470
20% is not required an FHA government backed loan requires only 3.5% down however does require that you pay a one-time funding fee (MIP) that is calculated based on the amount of the loan, and you will then need to consider your monthly budget and add primary mortgage insurance (PMI) into that budget.  This PMI is eliminated when you have 20% equity on your loan which may be the reason you are under the impression that 20% down is required.
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6 days ago
Profile picture for Caveat Emptor
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Since January 2009

however be prepared to pay a large upfront mort premium for FHA, its a good way to insure that you have negative equity pretty much the day you close
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6 days ago
Profile picture for Vin75
Contributions: 25
if you don't put 20% down be prepared to pay a premium for private mortgage insurance.
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6 days ago
Profile picture for alexlo12
NO ITS NOT NECESSARY, BUT IF YOU DON'T HAVE AT LEAST 20% DOWN ON A HOME YOU HAVE NO BUSINESS BUYING A HOME YOU CANT AFFORD IT. MAYBE YOU SHOULD WAIT AND SAVE MORE MONEY DON'T BE A DEADBEAT. PEACE
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September 24
Profile picture for awilliamson
Real Estate Agent
Contributions: 1

FHA loans with as little as 3-5% down are being approved.  Of course, your credit rating will be reviewed.  It's a great time to take advantage of this type of loan.  In certain circumstances, closing costs can be rolled in, however, the appraisal must support this.

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September 24
No you do not need 20% down in order to purchase.  Speak to a reliable lender and also ask about grant money such as the NJ Smart Start program.  This program is buyer qualification dependent as well as address specific for the property to be purchased.  Here's the link to the NJ State website:  http://sgl.state.nj.us/
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April 08
Profile picture for Bob Lowery
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Since February 2009

You can get a USDA or VA loan with 0% down.  Other than these two, FHA (3.5%) is probably the best way to go....
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April 05
It depends on the type of loan you are trying to get, if it is your primary residence and the amount of loan you qualify to receive in comparison to the amount of your offer.  FHA loans are 3.5% down at this time.  Hope this helps.
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April 05
 

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