What is a down payment?

@garret_hahn 

A down payment is a portion of the total purchase price that a buyer pays upfront when purchasing a house, car, or other expensive item through a loan or financing. It is typically expressed as a percentage of the total cost and is paid in cash or through a bank transfer. The remainder of the purchase price is financed through a loan or mortgage. The purpose of a down payment is to reduce the lender's risk by ensuring that the buyer has a vested interest in the purchase and to lower the loan amount, thereby reducing monthly payments and interest charges.

@garret_hahn 

The down payment amount can vary depending on the price of the item being purchased and the specific requirements set by the lender. For example, when buying a home, conventional loans often require a down payment of at least 20% of the purchase price. However, some loan programs may allow for lower down payment amounts, such as FHA loans which typically require a minimum down payment of 3.5%.

In addition to lowering the loan amount and reducing monthly payments, making a larger down payment can also have other benefits. It can improve the buyer's chances of getting approved for a loan, as it demonstrates financial stability and a lower risk of default. A larger down payment may also help the buyer obtain a better interest rate, as lenders often offer more favorable terms to borrowers with lower loan-to-value ratios.

Overall, a down payment is an upfront financial investment made by the buyer to secure a loan and make a significant purchase, with the goal of reducing the loan amount and associated costs.