
Saving to buy
Down payment planner
How long it takes to save for the down payment, closing costs and a cushion, and what you would need to save each month to hit your date.
Behind the numbers
How it works
Your goal
Down payment (price × your percentage) + closing costs (price × that percentage) + your cushion.
Months to get there
Each month your savings earn interest at the yearly rate ÷ 12, then your monthly amount is added, until the total reaches the goal.
To hit your date
The monthly amount that reaches the goal in the months you chose: (goal − savings grown for that long) × monthly rate ÷ ((1 + monthly rate)^months − 1).
Adjust it
What each input means
| Down payment % | Loan programs differ. A lender can tell you which you qualify for and what mortgage insurance costs under 20%. |
|---|---|
| Closing costs % | Example only. Your loan estimate gives the real number. |
| Interest earned | Example only. Use what your savings account actually pays. |
When to use it
Made for
- A year or more before buying
- Comparing 5%, 10% and 20% down
- Setting a monthly savings goal
Buying
Choose the part of town that fits your life first: golf, trails, dining, space, views. Then be first to the right homes, sent to you personally by Morgan.
- Find your area
- Backyard sun (optional)
- Your search
- Your plan
Questions
Good to know
Is 20% down required?+
Not for many loans. Less down usually means mortgage insurance and a larger loan. The table shows how the choice changes the wait.
Is there help with a down payment?+
Many states and cities have programs. Rules differ, so ask a lender what is available where you are buying.
Keep planning
Related tools
Buying budgetWhat your payment buysFrom a monthly budget to a price range, with rate, taxes, insurance and HOA all counted.Open →
Your first homeFirst-time buyer roadmapEvery step from savings to keys, in order, saved on your device as you check them off.Open →
Cash to closeClosing cost estimateWhat to bring to closing, line by line, from loan fees and title to prepaids, deposit and credits.Open →Want Morgan’s eyes on it?
Send your numbers and she will review them personally, with real figures for your area.