Down Payment Calculator
Find out how much down payment you need, how it affects PMI, and how long it will take to save enough based on your monthly savings rate.
Quick Answer
For a $400,000 home with 20% down, you'd need $80,000. Saving $500 a month starting from $10,000, you'd reach that goal in about 140 months (11.7 years).
Your Goal
Down Payment Needed
$80,000
Still Needed
$70,000
Time to Reach Goal
140 months
Target Date
Mar 2038
PMI Impact of Your Down Payment
Putting down less than 20% typically requires private mortgage insurance (PMI) on conventional loans. Here's how your target compares:
Resulting Loan Amount
$320,000
Loan-to-Value Ratio
80.0%
Savings Growth Timeline
Yearly view| Year | Contributed | Interest Earned | Balance |
|---|
What Is a Down Payment Calculator?
A down payment calculator shows how much cash you'll need upfront to buy a home and how long it will take to save that amount based on your current savings and monthly contributions. It also shows how your down payment size affects private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirements, since putting down less than 20% on a conventional loan usually means paying PMI until you build enough equity.
First-Time Home Buyer Grants & Down Payment Assistance
If saving a full down payment feels out of reach, first-time home buyer assistance programs can help close the gap. Programs vary by state and locality, but common types include:
- First-time home buyer grants — funds that typically don't need to be repaid, often through state housing finance agencies.
- Down payment assistance programs — low-interest or forgivable second loans specifically for the down payment.
- Employer-assisted housing programs — some employers offer down payment help as a benefit.
- FHA loans — allow as little as 3.5% down, reducing the amount you need to save.
To apply for down payment assistance, start by checking your state's housing finance agency website, since eligibility and available programs vary significantly by location and household income.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your target home price.
- Set your down payment percentage goal.
- Enter your current savings and monthly savings amount.
- Add your savings account's interest rate (APY), if any.
- Review your timeline and PMI impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum down payment for a home?
It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans can go as low as 3%, FHA loans require 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans may require 0% down for eligible borrowers.
Do I need 20% down to avoid PMI?
On a conventional loan, yes, typically. Putting down less than 20% usually triggers private mortgage insurance, which is removed once you reach 20% equity.
Are first-time home buyer grants free money?
Many grants don't require repayment if you meet program conditions, such as living in the home for a minimum number of years, but some down payment assistance comes as a low-interest loan instead.