Down Payment
How much do I really need to put down?
Many buyers can get started with as little as 3% down on a conventional loan, or even 0% down with VA or USDA if eligible. The “right” number depends on your budget, goals, and timeframe.
Mortgage & Money Coach • Colorado & Texas
Mortgage coaching that turns big decisions into clear next steps—so you buy, refinance, or invest with confidence.
Chris Milker • NMLS #277954 • Success Mortgage Partners • Serving CO & TX
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Plain-English numbers & options.
Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo, Bank Statement & DSCR.
Fast pre-approvals & updates.
22 years in CO & TX.
Goals, payment comfort, down payment strategy.
Strong pre-approval, offer-ready.
Lock, docs, smooth milestones.
Annual reviews, refi & equity planning.
Flexible terms for well-qualified buyers.
Low down payment and lenient guidelines.
Powerful benefits for eligible veterans.
Zero-down in eligible rural areas.
Higher loan amounts with tailored options.
Options for self-employed & investors.
Helpful guidance
A few of the questions I answer every week. Browse below, and if you don’t see yours, reach out and I’ll walk you through it one-on-one.
Down Payment
Many buyers can get started with as little as 3% down on a conventional loan, or even 0% down with VA or USDA if eligible. The “right” number depends on your budget, goals, and timeframe.
Credit Score
You don’t need perfect credit. There are options starting in the low- to mid-600s, and in some cases lower. I’ll help you understand where you stand and what steps could strengthen your file.
Monthly Payment
We’ll look at your income, other payments, and savings to find a range that feels realistic—not just what a computer says you can qualify for. The goal is peace of mind, not payment shock.
Closing Costs
Plan on roughly 2–4% of the purchase price for fees, taxes, and prepaids. Sometimes we can use seller credits or lender options to reduce what you bring to the table.
Timing
Ideally, we talk 60–90 days before you want to be serious about shopping. That gives us time to clean up any loose ends and position you to write strong offers with confidence.
Refinance
Yes. Many clients buy when the home and payment make sense today, then revisit their options if the market shifts. I’ll keep an eye on opportunities and let you know when a refi review makes sense.
Have a question that’s not listed here? Send me a quick note and I’ll get you a clear, custom answer.