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What is the down payment for a second home?

Answered by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker

Second homes generally require 10% down on a conventional loan, more than a primary residence but far less than an investment property. Strong credit keeps the requirement at the low end.

The home must be a genuine second home you occupy part-time, not a rental. We'll confirm it qualifies as a second home and structure the down payment accordingly.

Usually 10% or more

A second home typically requires at least 10% down on a conventional loan, though some lenders want more depending on your credit and the property. It is more than a primary home but less than a rental.

Government loans like FHA and VA do not cover second homes, so conventional financing is the usual route.

Planning your cash

A stronger credit score and reserves can help you qualify at the lower end of the down payment range. The home must be for personal use to get second-home pricing.

We will map your exact down payment. Apply now and we will run your second-home numbers.

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Official resources

Verify the details for your own situation against these government and agency sources: Florida Housing homebuyer programs and CFPB Owning a Home guide.

Related Property Types Questions

Can I rent out a second home?Occasionally, yes — second-home loans usually permit some short-term renting as long as you also use the home and don't rent it full-time.Can I buy a condo with a mortgage?Yes. FHA, VA, conventional, and jumbo loans all finance condos, but the building must meet the loan type's approval standards for occupancy, reserves, insurance, and litigation.What is a warrantable condo?A warrantable condo is a project that meets Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards — adequate reserves, healthy owner-occupancy, proper insurance, no major litigation, and no single owner controlling too many units.
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