: 0% down (for low-to-moderate income buyers in rural areas).
To buy a house in California in 2026, you generally need two separate "deposits" at different stages of the process: an ( 1–3% of price ) to secure your offer and a down payment (0–20% of price) to finalize your loan. how much deposit to buy a house in california
: Often require 10% to 20% down (required if the loan exceeds conforming limits). Why 20% is the "Magic Number" : 0% down (for low-to-moderate income buyers in rural areas)
: 0% down (for eligible veterans and service members). how much deposit to buy a house in california
: Held in a neutral escrow account and credited toward your final costs at closing.
: As low as 3% down (minimum credit score typically 620+). FHA Loans : 3.5% down (minimum credit score 580+).