A primary residence is a home you will live in the majority of the year. This type of home qualifies for the lowest minimum down payment and mortgage rates because lenders view it as lower risk. The amount of down payment varies based on the loan program, but it can be as little as 0%. For example, a primary home worth $350,000 obtaining a 30-year fixed mortgage with 5% down at a note rate of 7% and an APR of 7.138% would have a monthly Principal and Interest payment of $2,212.13.
A property is considered a second home when you live in the home only a portion of the year, it is located at least 50 miles away from your primary residence, and you do not plan on marketing the property for rent. Second homes have similar interest rates to primary residences, but require a larger minimum down payment of at least 10%. For example, a second home worth $350,000 obtaining a 30-year fixed mortgage with 25% down at a note rate of 7.625% and an APR of 7.768% would have a monthly Principal and Interest payment of $1,858.86.
An investment property is a property you purchase with the intention of earning rental income. This property type has the highest interest rates and down payment requirements. With this type of home, a down payment of at least 15% is required. For example, an investment property worth $350,000 obtaining a 30-year fixed mortgage with 25% down at a note rate of 7.625% and an APR of 7.768% would have a monthly Principal and Interest payment of $1,858.86.
Examples are based on rates effective December 28, 2023.