For home buyers
Buy with a plan, not a guess.
Here is the whole road from first question to keys, and the programs that make it easier.
Your path from pre-approval to keys
- 1Affordability calculator →
Check your numbers
Use the affordability calculator, then answer a few questions so we can match real programs to your budget.
- 2Start my application →
Get pre-approved
Apply in about 10 minutes. We verify income and credit up front, so your letter carries weight with sellers.
- 3Need an agent intro? →
Shop and make offers
Your agent sends offers backed by a verified approval. Lock & Shop lets you secure a rate while you look.
- 4What to expect at closing →
Under contract to closed
Appraisal, underwriting and clear to close with updates at each step. Most loans close in 21 to 30 days.
Programs buyers use most
Low down payment options, explained.
| Loan program | Minimum down | Minimum credit | Best for | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional Loans | 3% | 600 | Solid credit, flexible down payment | Details |
| FHA Loans | 3.5% | 580 | Lower scores or smaller savings | Details |
| VA Loans | 0% | 580 | Eligible veterans and service members | Details |
| USDA Loans | 0% | 580 | Eligible rural and suburban homes | Details |
| Jumbo Loans | 10% | 660 | Loans up to $3.5M | Details |
| First-Time Home Buyer Loans | 3% | 580 | First home, limited savings | Details |
| Down Payment Assistance | Up to 100% assisted | Varies | Help covering the down payment | Details |
- Conventional Loans3% down · 600 min creditSolid credit, flexible down payment
- FHA Loans3.5% down · 580 min creditLower scores or smaller savings
- VA Loans0% down · 580 min creditEligible veterans and service members
- USDA Loans0% down · 580 min creditEligible rural and suburban homes
- Jumbo Loans10% down · 660 min creditLoans up to $3.5M
- First-Time Home Buyer Loans3% down · 580 min creditFirst home, limited savings
- Down Payment AssistanceUp to 100% assisted downHelp covering the down payment
Minimums are program floors from our 2026 product guide, not a promise to lend. Requirements depend on the full application. Additional terms and conditions apply.
What buyers say
Buyer questions
How much do I really need for a down payment?
Less than most people think. Conventional loans start at 3% down for eligible buyers, FHA at 3.5%, VA and USDA can be zero down, and down payment assistance programs can cover the rest for qualifying buyers. Closing costs are separate, and sellers can sometimes help.
Does getting pre-approved hurt my credit?
A mortgage application involves a credit check, but the matching questions on this site do not. Multiple mortgage inquiries within a short shopping window are generally treated as a single inquiry by the scoring models.
What if my credit is not perfect?
FHA, VA and USDA loans go down to a 580 score, with manual underwriting available, and we have second chance programs for recent credit events. Tell us where you are and we will map out the fastest path.
Ready when you are.
Start your full application in about 10 minutes, or call and talk to a real person on the team.
Not ready to apply? See your options in 60 seconds