Down Payment Strategies

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Down Payment Strategies

Creative Down Payment Strategies for 2026

Low and No Down Payment Options

VA Loans — $0 Down
USDA Loans — $0 Down
FHA Loans — 3.5% Down
Conventional — 3% Down

Gift Funds: The Family Advantage

Down Payment Assistance Programs

Creative Saving Strategies

The 20% Down Myth

Don't Let Down Payment Hold You Back

The biggest barrier to homeownership for many buyers is the down payment. But here's the secret: You don't need 20% down. In fact, you might not even need 5%. Here are proven strategies to fund your down payment in 2026.

For veterans and active military. No down payment, no PMI, competitive rates.

For eligible rural and suburban areas. Income limits apply.

Credit scores as low as 580. Gift funds allowed for entire down payment.

First-time buyer programs available. PMI required until 20% equity.

Most loan programs allow some or all of your down payment to come from gift funds:

Gift funds must come from acceptable sources (family, close friends, employers, approved organizations) with a signed gift letter stating repayment isn't required.

State and local programs can provide grants or loans for your down payment:

I can connect you with down payment assistance programs available in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee.

While 20% down eliminates PMI, it's not always the best financial move:

Let's explore all your options for buying with little to no money down. There are more programs available than most people realize.

Down Payment Strategies | Ashley Shannon | Elevated Lending Co