How much should I put down on a house?

There's no single right answer. Twenty percent avoids PMI and lowers your payment, but putting down 3% to 5% lets you buy sooner and keep cash in reserve. The best amount depends on your goals and savings.

In an appreciating Florida market, buying sooner with less down can outweigh waiting to save 20%. We'll compare the monthly cost and cash position at several down payment levels.

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