While 20% is often cited as the gold standard for a down payment, it is far from a requirement. For qualified buyers, 2026 mortgage programs like VA Loans and USDA Loans allow for 0% down.
These government-backed programs are the only major loan types that inherently require no down payment: options for buying a house with no down payment
: Available to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. They feature no monthly mortgage insurance and flexible credit requirements. While 20% is often cited as the gold
: Designed for low-to-moderate income buyers in designated rural and suburban areas—which account for roughly 97% of the U.S. land mass. Household income generally cannot exceed 115% of the area's median income. 2. Assistance & "Stacking" Strategies active-duty service members