Several generations ago, lenders required home buyers to have a 20 percent down payment in order to get a mortgage. While there were a few options out there for people who couldn't save this substantial amount, the reality was that for the majority of people, the 20 percent down was a requirement. It was the way to show that you were financially responsible enough for homeownership. And it was a strong way that the banks felt secure in making a home loan. Today, however, homebuyers have many … [Read more...]

Several generations ago, lenders required home buyers to have a 20 percent down payment in order to get a mortgage. While there were a few options out there for people who couldn't save this substantial amount, the reality was that for the majority of people, the 20 percent down was a requirement. It was the way to show that you were financially responsible enough for homeownership. And it was a strong way that the banks felt secure in making a home loan. Today, however, homebuyers have many … [Read more...]