Understanding down payments is central to the homebuying journey—whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up. In 2025, we saw the median down payment for U.S. homebuyers hit 19%. First-timers typically put down 10%, while repeat buyers averaged 23%. With so many loan options out there, down payment requirements can really vary. It’s worth noting that putting down 20% lets you skip PMI, which can help your bottom line over time. For those who need a little extra help, assistance programs and careful budgeting can open doors. Drawing on our years of experience leasing and selling homes across L.A., Ventura, and Riverside Counties—and as multi-unit owners ourselves—we see every day how understanding these numbers makes all the difference for clients and landlords alike.

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