Think You Need 20% Down to Buy a Home? That’s a Myth from Another Decade.

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting until you save a full 20% down payment, I need you to hear this clearly: those rules are outdated.
And honestly? They’re keeping a lot of great buyers stuck renting longer than they need to.

Here’s the reality of today’s housing market—especially here in Corona, California and surrounding Riverside County communities.

The Truth About Down Payments in Today’s Market

Recent data shows that the average first-time homebuyer puts down around 6–8%. Repeat buyers? Closer to 15%. Not 20%. Not even close for many people.

Even better, there are multiple loan options designed for real people—not just textbook-perfect buyers:

• Conventional loans with as little as 3–5% down

• FHA loans starting at 3.5% down

• VA loans with zero down for eligible veterans

• Specialty and first-time buyer programs based on income and location (yes, many apply right here in Corona)

So if the down payment is flexible, what actually matters?

The Real Gatekeepers to Buying a Home

The biggest factors lenders look at aren’t some magic savings number—they’re things you can actively improve:

• Credit score

• Stable income

• Debt-to-income ratio

These carry far more weight than hitting an arbitrary down payment goal.

I’ve worked with countless buyers who tried to “just save a little more” while home prices kept climbing faster than their savings account. Unfortunately, that math rarely works. Waiting often costs more than moving forward strategically.

Why Local Guidance Matters More Than Ever

Every market is different, and Corona real estate has its own rhythm, pricing trends, and opportunities. What works in another city—or another decade—doesn’t always apply here.

That’s why working with a local expert who understands Corona neighborhoods, loan programs, and buyer strategies can make all the difference. The right plan can open doors you didn’t realize were already within reach.

If buying a home feels out of reach, it might not be your finances—it might be outdated advice holding you back.

At Diana Renee Homes, my goal is to replace confusion with clarity and help you make confident, informed decisions about your future. Whether you’re buying your first home or your next one, you deserve real guidance based on today’s market—not yesterday’s myths.

If you’re curious about what you actually need to buy in Corona or the Inland Empire, let’s talk. You might be closer than you think.