How much of a down payment do I really need in 2026?

How much of a down payment you really need in 2026 comes down to the loan program chosen, since FHA, VA, USDA, and certain conventional options all require far less than the large amount many buyers assume is standard. The tradeoff for a smaller down payment is usually mortgage insurance until enough equity builds up. A lender can confirm the actual minimum for a specific buyer and property.