69% of Buyers are Wrong About Down Payment Needs
According to a recent survey conducted by Genworth Financial Inc. at the Annual Mortgage Bankers’ Association Secondary Market Conference, 69% of mortgage professionals say that first-time buyers still believe a 20% down payment is necessary to buy in today’s market.
Nearly 40% of mortgage industry professionals surveyed believe that a lack of knowledge about the home-buying process is keeping potential buyers on the sidelines. Saving for a down payment is often cited as a huge barrier for first-time homebuyers to make the leap into homeownership.
If homeowners believe that they need a 20% down payment to enter the market, they also believe that they will have to wait years (in some markets) to come up with the necessary funds to buy their dream homes.
The greatest source of confusion cited in the survey results centered around down payments. The results are broken down in the chart below:
Rohit Gupta, CEO of Genworth Mortgage Insurance had this to say,
“While first-time homebuyers continue to drive the purchase market, we believe many are staying on the sidelines due to the misconception that a 20 percent down payment is required to secure a mortgage.
There are various low down payment options available today that allow prospective homebuyers to reach their dreams of homeownership sooner. It is crucial that, as an industry, we proactively educate eligible borrowers about solutions that will enable them to buy a home when they’re ready.”
Bottom Line
Don’t let a lack of understanding of the home-buying process keep you and your family out of the housing market. Meet with a local real estate professional who can show you your options today!
What Mortgage Rate Do You Need To Move?
While mortgage rates are nearly impossible to forecast, the optimism from the experts should give you insight into what’s ahead.
Finding Your Perfect Home in a Fixer Upper
Your agent can also offer advice on which upgrades and renovations will set you up to get the greatest return on your investment.
The Benefits of Downsizing When You Retire
When you downsize your house, you often end up downsizing the bills that come with it, like energy costs, and maintenance requirements.
Why There Won’t Be a Recession That Tanks the Housing Market
The fundamentals of the economy, despite some hiccups, are doing pretty good.
What To Know About Credit Scores Before Buying a Home
Working with a trusted lender is the best way to get more information on how your credit score could factor into your home loan.
Why You Want an Agent’s Advice for Your Move
A real estate advisor can anticipate what could happen next and work with you to put together a solid plan.
Why Today’s Housing Supply Is a Sweet Spot for Sellers
The number of homes for sale and new listing activity continues to improve compared to last year.
The Truth About Down Payments
Unless specified by your loan type or lender, it’s typically not required to put 20% down. That means you could be closer to your homebuying dream than you realize.
Expert Home Price Forecasts for 2024 Revised Up
Now that rates have come down from their peak, and with further declines expected this year, buyer demand has picked up.
Strategic Tips for Buying Your First Home
If you’re ready, willing, and able to buy your first home, here are some tips to help you turn your dream into a reality.