How Much Is The Down Payment For A $300,000 House? (2024)

Down payment options for a $300K house

Have you ever wondered how much a down payment for a $300k house would be? That’s going to depend entirely on the type of mortgage you choose.

While some lenders may require no down payment at all, most will need at least 3% of the purchase price ($9,000) or 3.5% ($10,500). However, if you have a down payment of 20% ($60,000), you could save quite a bit on mortgage insurance and interest charges.

Check your low down payment eligibility. Start here

The key lies in choosing the down payment amount that aligns best with your circumstances. Read on to learn how to figure out the right one for you.

In this article (Skip to...)

  • Down payment options
  • Estimated mortgage payments
  • Funding down payments
  • FAQ

>Related: How to buy a house with $0 down: First-time home buyer

How much down payment for a $300,000 house?

The down payment needed for a $300,000 house can range from 3% to 20% of the purchase price, which means you’d need to save between $9,000 and $60,000. If you get a conventional loan, that is.

You’ll need $10,500, or 3.5% of the home price, with a FHA loan. This type of loan is usually easier to get approval for, but it also requires mortgage insurance over the life of the loan.

However, if you’re eligible for either a VA loan or USDA loan, you can buy a house without any down payment.

Ultimately, the exact amount depends on your loan type, credit report, and lender criteria.

What are the minimum down payment options for a $300K house?

Remember that every journey to homeownership is unique, especially when arranging the down payment for a $300,000 house. Lenders scrutinize your credit score, gross monthly income, and debt obligations to gauge your eligibility for a home loan, which hinges on your financial circumstances.

Explore your home buying options. Start here

Thankfully, there are options for many borrowers that require little or no down payment.

0% down payment options

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to buy a house, there are paths to owning a home without the traditional down payment requirement. Two such paths are through VA and USDA loans, each offering unique opportunities to buy a home with 0% down. Here’s how they work.

With VA loans and USDA loans, you can buy a $300,000 house with no down payment whatsoever.

VA loans

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers those who’ve served in the military a chance to buy a home with no money down. This VA loan is available to veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, and certain surviving spouses.

To qualify, you’ll still need to meet your participating lender’s eligibility requirements. While the VA hasn’t set a minimum credit score for this loan, many lenders are looking for FICO scores in the 620–660 range, although some are satisfied with scores as low as 580.

You’ll also need a VA-issued Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which your lender can help you obtain.

Check your VA loan eligibility. Start here

USDA loans

The rural development program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture also gives buyers the opportunity to purchase a home with no down payment, as long as they buy a home in a designated rural area.

To be eligible for a USDA loan, your household income must be low to moderate and below the area median income (AMI) where you intend to purchase. Not sure whether your income qualifies? Use this lookup tool to check your eligibility.

Most lenders offering USDA-guaranteed mortgages ask for a credit score of at least 640, although the USDA itself does not have a set credit score requirement. The USDA’s automated underwriting system requires a 640 credit score for automatic approval. However, some USDA lenders might consider scores below 640 with compensating factors in place. These could include a lower debt-to-income ratio (DTI) or making a down payment.

Check your USDA loan eligibility. Start here

3% down payment options

You can buy a $300,000 house with only $9,000 down when using a conventional mortgage, which is the lowest down payment permitted, unless you qualify for a zero-down-payment VA or USDA loan.

Most mortgage lenders have some form of conventional 97 loan program, which only requires 3% of the home price as down payment. Similarly Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac both offer first-time home buyer programs that also only require 3% down: HomeReady and Home Possible.

You can buy a $300,000 house with only $9,000 down when using a conventional mortgage, which is the lowest down payment permitted, unless you qualify for a zero-down-payment VA or USDA loan.

Check your conventional loan eligibility. Start here

Different lenders have different rules, but typically they require a 620 credit score for conventional loan approval. Individual lenders can impose higher minimums, and it’s important to highlight this. Because if you are turned down with a score of 620, it’s a smart move to explore other lenders who might offer more flexible terms.

Remember that when you make a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price, conventional loans require private mortgage insurance (PMI). Yet, you have the option to cancel PMI once your home’s value equals 20% of the loan amount.

3.5% down payment options

You can buy a $300,000 house with $10,500 down using an FHA loan, which are typically easier to qualify for than other types of mortgage loans. With an FHA loan, you can buy your dream home by putting down just 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.

You can buy a $300,000 house with $10,500 down using an FHA loan, which are typically easier to qualify for than other types of mortgage loans.

Check your FHA loan eligibility. Start here

The down payment requirement for a conventional loan is only slightly less than that. But remember that FHA loans charge mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) for the life of the loan or until you refinance it into another type of mortgage.

So why do so many people choose FHA loans? First and foremost, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) allows borrowers with credit scores as low as 580 (or 500 if able to make a 10% down payment).

Borrowers seeking a faster route to homeownership find FHA loans an appealing option because of this flexibility. Additionally, if you move or refinance within the next few years, the burden of mortgage insurance payments tends to be less significant.

20% down payment options

You can buy a $300,000 house with $60,000 down with any mortgage loan, but most buyers opt for a conventional loan because a 20% down payment generally leads to lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, and eliminates the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI).

You can buy a $300,000 house with $60,000 down with any mortgage loan, but most buyers opt for a conventional loan because a 20% down payment generally leads to lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, and eliminates the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI).

This significant upfront investment can ultimately save thousands of dollars over the life of the loan, making it an attractive option for those with sufficient savings.

“FHA loans and programs like HomeReady have lower interest rates,” reminds Jon Meyer, loan expert and licensed MLO. “So use a down payment calculator to find the difference in total payments between different loan programs to see which makes more sense.”

Check your conventional loan options. Start here

How much is the monthly payment for a $300K house?

With a 7% fixed interest rate, your monthly mortgage payments for a $300K house could range from $1,600 to $2,300. However, the amount of money you’ll need varies based on several factors, including the strength of your credit report, the type of loan you choose, and other personal financial factors.

Check your loan options. Start here

We used The Mortgage Reports’ mortgage calculator to model the monthly payments on a $300K home. Using a 30-year loan term with a fixed 7% interest rate, here’s how much you might pay from month to month:

  • VA loan payment: $1,996: Zero down and a rate of 7% (no mortgage insurance).
  • USDA loan payment: $2,056: $1,996 mortgage payment with $60 mortgage insurance, with zero down and a rate of 7%.
  • Conventional loan payment: $2,251: $1,936 monthly payment and $315 private mortgage insurance, with 3% down and a rate of 7%.
  • FHA loan payment: $2,135: $1,926 monthly mortgage payment and $209 mortgage insurance, with 3.5% down and a rate of 7%.
  • 20% down conforming loan payment: $1,597: 20% down and a rate of 7% (no PMI needed)

Note: These examples include only loan principal and mortgage interest. They do not include additional housing costs, like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and homeowners association (HOA) dues because they vary from one region to the next.

You can use a mortgage calculator to model your own housing payments using today’s mortgage rates.

We’ve used the same mortgage interest rate (7%) for each example. However, it’s worth mentioning that different types of mortgage loans have varying rates. Keep in mind that mortgage rates could have potentially shifted by the time you’re reviewing this information.

How to get the down payment for a $300K house

As you explore options for financing the down payment for a $300K house, it’s important to consider a variety of resources. State-specific homebuyer programs and down payment assistance programs are two avenues that offer unique opportunities and advantages for first-time buyers.

Down payment assistance

If you don’t have the amount of money necessary for the down payment on a $300K house, rest assured that there are solutions. As mentioned earlier, down payment assistance (DPA) programs offer home affordability programs tailored to individuals with low to moderate household incomes.

Check your loan options. Start here

There are thousands of these assistance programs across the country. Speak with your loan officer, real estate agent, or Realtor to find one in your area. And if you’re at the initial stages of your home buying journey, we’ve gathered DPA programs in every state just for you.

Each DPA program operates independently and establishes its own set of rules. So we can’t tell you exactly what assistance you may receive. However, it’s likely to fall into one of these categories:

  • Low-interest loan that is repaid alongside your mortgage
  • Forgivable loan that doesn’t have to be repaid if you live in the home as your primary residence for a certain number of years
  • Outright grant that never has to be repaid

Some DPAs may also extend support to cover your closing costs. And it’s worth noting that lenders are generally supportive of DPAs, as they are well-versed with these programs and often approve them.

Government grants

Government grants for first-time home buyers can significantly ease the financial burden of a down payment. Unlike loans, these grants don’t require repayment, making them an extremely attractive option.

These grants are often available through local or state housing authorities and are designed to assist buyers with various aspects of the home purchasing process.

Eligibility criteria can include income levels, property location, and the buyer’s status as a first-time homeowner. We’ve compiled a list of home buying grants in each state to help you explore your options.

Gifts from family and friends

If you’re finding it challenging to gather the down payment for a $300K house, consider that many lenders accept cash gifts from family members to cover this cost. Be aware that lenders might have specific policies regarding gifts from non-family members, so it’s important to inquire about their rules.

Keep in mind that there are guidelines associated with such gifts. The main one is that the money you receive should genuinely be a gift and not a concealed loan. To satisfy this requirement, your donor will have to provide a mortgage gift letter, explicitly confirming that the funds are indeed intended as a gift.

You’ll also need to document the transfer of funds. This involves showing the source of funds and the money leaving from your donor’s account to yours.

State-specific home buyer programs

Many states offer unique programs designed to assist first-time home buyers, especially those struggling with the down payment for a $300K house. These programs often include low-interest loans, grants, or tax credits tailored to make homeownership more accessible.

Benefits and eligibility vary, focusing on income levels, purchase price limits, and sometimes even specific professions or locations.

By taking advantage of these state-specific initiatives, buyers can find valuable assistance that eases the financial burden of their home purchase.

Employer-assisted housing programs

Employer-Assisted Housing (EAH) programs can be a significant benefit for employees, particularly when it comes to gathering the funds for the down payment for a $300K house.

Offered by some companies, EAH programs can include direct financial assistance, favorable lending terms, or even outright grants.

Not only do these programs help in facilitating homeownership, but they also serve as a tool for employers to attract and retain talent. Employees should inquire with their HR department about the availability of such housing benefits.

Savings

Opting to save for a 5-20% down payment not only reduces your monthly mortgage payments but also helps you qualify for more favorable loan terms and lower interest rates, saving you money in the long run.

One effective strategy is to set up a dedicated savings account for your down payment, making regular contributions a part of your monthly budget. Additionally, automating transfers to your savings account can help you reach your goal faster without the temptation to spend.

401(k) or IRA withdrawals

Tapping into retirement savings, such as a 401(k) or an IRA, is a notable option for those needing additional funds for the down payment for a $300K house.

The IRS allows first-time home buyers to withdraw up to $10,000 from an IRA without facing the early withdrawal penalty.

Some 401(k) plans also permit loans or withdrawals for home purchases. However, this strategy requires careful consideration due to potential tax implications and the impact on future retirement savings.

Consulting with a financial advisor is advised to understand the full scope of this decision.

FAQ: How much down payment for a $300K house?

Check your loan options. Start here

Does earnest money go toward down payment?

Yes, earnest money typically goes toward the down payment on a house. When you make an offer on a home, earnest money is paid as a sign of good faith to the seller, demonstrating your serious interest in the property. It’s held in an escrow account and is credited towards your down payment at closing.

What credit score is needed to buy a $300K house?

The required credit score to buy a $300K house typically ranges from 580 to 720 or higher, depending on the type of loan. For an FHA loan, the minimum credit score is usually around 580. Conversely, conventional loans generally require a minimum score of 620, but securing more favorable interest rates often demands a score above 720.

How much is the down payment for a $300K house?

You’ll need a down payment of $9,000, or 3 percent, if you’re buying a $300K house with a conventional loan. Meanwhile, an FHA loan requires a slightly higher down payment of $10,500, which is 3.5 percent of the purchase price.

How much do I need to make to buy a $300K house?

You’ll likely need to make about $75,000 a year to buy a $300K house. This is an estimate, but, as a rule of thumb, with a 3 percent down payment on a conventional 30-year mortgage at 7 percent, your monthly mortgage payment will be around $2,250. Keep in mind this figure doesn’t include home insurance or housing expenses. Also, your home buying budget will vary depending on your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, type of loan, mortgage term, and interest rate.

What is my debt-to-income ratio?

Your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, is how much money you owe compared to how much you earn, expressed as a percentage. Calculate DTI by dividing your gross monthly income (pre-tax income) by your minimum monthly debt payments, which include debt like car loans, student loans, credit card payments, and even child support. As an example, if your monthly pre-tax income is $4,000, and you have $1,000 worth of monthly debt payments, then your DTI stands at 25 percent.

How much house can I afford?

A good rule of thumb is that you shouldn’t spend more than 28 percent of your gross monthly income on housing costs and no more than 36 percent on total debts, including your mortgage and credit card payments. For example, if you earn $4,000 in pre-tax income and have $100 in debt repayment, then your mortgage payment shouldn’t exceed $1,340. This financial principle is commonly known as the 28/36 rule.

Your down payment for a $300K house

Ready to unlock the door to your new home? Navigating your mortgage options doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Whether you’re determining how much down payment you need, understanding loan eligibility, or figuring out how to skip mortgage insurance, we’ve got you covered. Click below to explore a simplified path to homeownership, tailor-made to fit your financial situation.

Start with preapproval from a trusted mortgage lender and discover the possibilities that await you. Begin your next step towards a home that feels uniquely yours by clicking the links below.

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How Much Is The Down Payment For A $300,000 House? (2024)

FAQs

How Much Is The Down Payment For A $300,000 House? ›

The down payment needed for a $300,000 house can range from 3% to 20% of the purchase price, which means you'd need to save between $9,000 and $60,000. If you get a conventional loan, that is. You'll need $10,500, or 3.5% of the home price, with a FHA loan.

How much is a downpayment on a $300000 house? ›

FHA Loan Down Payment

They require a minimum down payment of just 3.5%, which is $10,500 for a $300,000 home. Please also note that mortgage insurance premiums are a requirement for all FHA loans. Similar to Private Mortgage Insurance, FHA Mortgage Insurance is in place to protect lenders if a default occurs.

How much should I save up for a 300K house? ›

If you're planning on buying a home in the future, it's important to start saving today. Every little bit you can do to save for a home helps make it happen. If you want to buy a home for around $300,000 and you can't qualify for a loan program that requires no down payment, you'll need at least $10,500 to $15,000.

How much income do you need to qualify for a $300,000 mortgage? ›

How much do I need to make to buy a $300K house? To purchase a $300K house, you may need to make between $50,000 and $74,500 a year. This is a rule of thumb, and the specific salary will vary depending on your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, type of home loan, loan term, and mortgage rate.

What is the down payment on a 350 000 house? ›

Upfront Costs

The median downpayment on a home is 13%, but if a buyer wants to avoid fees, including private mortgage insurance, they may have to put at least 20% down. If a buyer puts 20% down and takes out a $350K mortgage, they're likely putting down around $87,500.

What is the 20% down payment on a $300 000 house? ›

A 20% down payment on a $300,000 mortgage is $60,000. The $60,000 down payment is what most lenders look for especially commercial lenders, because it helps mitigate the risk of default.

What credit score is needed to buy a house? ›

The minimum credit score needed for most mortgages is typically around 620. However, government-backed mortgages like Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans typically have lower credit requirements than conventional fixed-rate loans and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs).

Can I afford a 300k house on a 70K salary? ›

If you make $70K a year, you can likely afford a home between $290,000 and $310,000*. Depending on your personal finances, that's a monthly house payment between $2,000 and $2,500. Keep in mind that figure will include your monthly mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance.

How much income to afford a 250k house? ›

If you follow the 2.5 times your income rule, you divide the cost of the home by 2.5 to determine how much money you need to earn annually to afford it. Based on this rule, you would need to earn $100,000 per year to comfortably purchase a $250,000 home.

Can I afford a 300k house on a 60k salary? ›

An individual earning $60,000 a year may buy a home worth ranging from $180,000 to over $300,000. That's because your wage isn't the only factor that affects your house purchase budget. Your credit score, existing debts, mortgage rates, and a variety of other considerations must all be taken into account.

Can I afford a house on 40K a year? ›

If you have minimal or no existing monthly debt payments, between $103,800 and $236,100 is about how much house you can afford on $40K a year. Exactly how much you spend on a house within that range depends on your financial situation and how much down payment you can afford to invest.

Is a 300k house expensive? ›

A $300,000 home is only about 75% of the median existing home sale price. Because mortgage rates are so elevated, a $300,000 home might result in expensive monthly payments. Make sure your housing costs don't exceed 30% of your take-home pay so you don't run into trouble paying your bills.

Is 300k a lot of money? ›

Although $300,000 is a lot compared to the median household income in the United States of ~$76,000 in 2023, it's not an outrageous sum of money. Once you pay taxes and look at the realistic income statement I've put together for this article you'll see the income is reasonable.

How much is a $300,000 mortgage per month? ›

Monthly payments on a $300,000 mortgage

At a 7.00% fixed interest rate, your monthly mortgage payment on a 30-year mortgage might total $1,996 a month, while a 15-year might cost $2,696 a month.

How much is a 30-year mortgage payment for $350 000? ›

On a $350,000, 30-year mortgage with a 6% APR, you can expect a monthly payment of $2,098.43, not including taxes and interest (these vary by location and property, so they can't be calculated without more detail). The payment would jump to $2,953.50 for a 15-year loan.

How to figure out down payment? ›

In most cases, you need a down payment of at least 3 percent of your target home price. Many loan types and lenders require 5 percent down or more. You can often save money if you put down at least 10 percent of the home price, and you'll save the most if you put down at least 20 percent.

How much house can I afford on 40K a year? ›

If you have minimal or no existing monthly debt payments, between $103,800 and $236,100 is about how much house you can afford on $40K a year. Exactly how much you spend on a house within that range depends on your financial situation and how much down payment you can afford to invest.

How much is 20% down on a $200,000 home? ›

How much is a down payment on a 200K house? A 20% down payment on a 200K house is $40,000. A 5% down payment is $10,000, and a 3.5% is $7,000. Talk with various lenders to see what you might qualify for.

How much house can I afford if I make $70,000 a year? ›

If you make $70K a year, you can likely afford a home between $290,000 and $310,000*. Depending on your personal finances, that's a monthly house payment between $2,000 and $2,500. Keep in mind that figure will include your monthly mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance.

How much to afford a 250k house? ›

If you follow the 2.5 times your income rule, you divide the cost of the home by 2.5 to determine how much money you need to earn annually to afford it. Based on this rule, you would need to earn $100,000 per year to comfortably purchase a $250,000 home.

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