Down Payment
How much down payment does FHA require?
Short answer
3.5% of the purchase price for borrowers with 580+ FICO. 10% for 500–579 FICO.
Plain-English explanation
On a $400,000 purchase, 3.5% is $14,000 — before closing costs and prepaids. The minimum required investment must come from the borrower's own funds or eligible gift sources, not from the seller.
Practical example
On a $350,000 Florida home, 3.5% down is $12,250. Plus closing costs, prepaids, and reserves — buyers usually need $18,000–$25,000 total cash unless seller credits or down-payment assistance are layered in.
What can change the answer?
Gift source and donor eligibility, seller credit limits, down payment assistance program rules, and source-of-funds documentation can change the answer.
Your next step
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Want the real answer for your file?
FHA guidelines are the rule. Your credit, income, payment, property, and county limit are what decide the actual answer.
More FHA questions on Down Payment
Educational only. FHA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review.