article thumbnail

When Is a House Down Payment Due and How Much Do I Need?

HomeLight

Otherwise, earnest money will be held in an escrow account until closing, and the amount is then applied toward your down payment at closing. Larsen cautions that if you’re buying a new construction home, you will likely be expected to pay a much larger percentage of earnest money.

article thumbnail

Your Guide to Buying a Home in the Sunshine State of Florida

HomeLight

Raymer says that for her clients, especially first-time buyers, she suggests an FHA loan, which only requires 3.5% FHA is really one of the best options,” she advises. She adds that Florida also has numerous down payment assistance programs, many of which are tied to state bond money. Earnest money deposit amount.