06/11/2026
🏡 What does a 3.5% down payment actually look like?
Many buyers hear “3.5% down” but aren’t sure what that means in dollars.
💰 $200,000 home → $7,000 down
💰 $300,000 home → $10,500 down
💰 $400,000 home → $14,000 down
That’s one reason FHA loans are so popular with first-time buyers.
Keep in mind, you’ll also want to budget for closing costs, though seller concessions, lender credits, or assistance programs may help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Would you have guessed the down payment was that low?