Ideal Down Payment for a Home Loan: How Much Should You Pay

Wondering how much down payment for home loan is ideal? Learn everything you need to know about down payments, affordability, and tips for securing the best deal.
Home Loan
2 min
09 December 2024
When you are planning to buy a home, one of the first things you will hear about is the down payment. It is a crucial part of the home loan process, and understanding how much you need to pay can help you prepare for your dream home. In this article, we will break down how much down payment for home loan you should make and why it matters.

What is a down payment?

A down payment is the initial amount of money you pay when buying a home. It is not part of the loan, so it is your personal contribution toward the home’s cost. The rest of the price is typically covered by the home loan you take out.

For example, if you want to buy a house worth Rs. 50,00,000, and the down payment is 20%, you will need to pay Rs. 10,00,000 upfront. The remaining Rs. 40,00,000 will be financed through your home loan.

Why is the down payment important?

Your down payment plays a huge role in determining the terms of your home loan. Here is why:

  • Loan approval: The more you can pay upfront, the more likely you are to get loan approval. A larger down payment reduces the lender’s risk since you are borrowing less money.
  • Interest rates: The larger your down payment, the better the terms you can negotiate. Lenders may offer lower interest rates to buyers with higher down payments because it shows you are financially responsible.
  • Equity in your home: When you make a large down payment, you instantly own more of your home. This equity can help you build wealth over time, as the value of your home increases.

Factors to consider when deciding on your down payment

When thinking about how much down payment for a home loan you should make, several factors come into play:

  • Your budget: It is important to think about what you can afford. While a larger down payment is beneficial in many ways, it may not be feasible if it depletes your savings. You should aim for a down payment that you can afford without sacrificing your financial security.
  • Other costs of buying a home: Besides the down payment, you will also need money for closing costs, registration, insurance, and moving. Make sure you have enough savings to cover these additional expenses so you are not caught off guard.
  • Your loan term: A smaller down payment usually means a larger loan amount. This can increase your monthly EMI (equated monthly installment), especially if you have a longer loan term. Consider your ability to comfortably pay the monthly EMI when deciding on the down payment.
  • Your credit score: If you have a strong credit score, you might be able to secure a loan with a lower down payment or better interest rates. Lenders may be more willing to work with you if you have a good credit history.

How to save for a down payment

Saving for a down payment can take time, but it is crucial for making the home-buying process smoother. Here are some tips to help you save:

  • Set a goal: Determine the percentage you want to save for your down payment and set a realistic target date to achieve it.
  • Budget wisely: Track your spending and cut back on unnecessary expenses. Redirect those savings toward your down payment.
  • Automate your savings: Set up an automatic transfer to your savings account each month so you consistently put money aside for your down payment.

Pros and cons of a larger down payment

Pros of a larger down paymentCons of a larger down payment
Lower monthly EMIIt takes longer to save a larger amount
Better loan terms and lower interest ratesIt might reduce your emergency savings if you are not careful
Avoid PMI and save on long-term costsYou may miss out on investing in other financial opportunities
Build equity faster in your home


When deciding how much down payment for a home loan to make, it is important to balance your financial situation with your long-term goals. While a larger down payment offers many benefits, it is crucial to make sure you do not stretch yourself too thin. Remember, your down payment should make sense for your current financial situation while helping you secure a loan with affordable terms.

Explore Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan

If you are ready to take the next step in your journey toward homeownership, consider Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan. With flexible repayment options and low interest rates, you can make your dream home a reality while managing your finances smartly.

Here are a few key benefits of choosing Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan:

1. High loan amount: Secure funding up to Rs. 15 crore* to turn your dream home into reality.

2. Low interest rates: Enjoy interest rates starting 7.99%*  p.a., and EMIs as low as Rs. 722/lakh*.

3. Quick approval: Get approved within 48 Hours* of applying – sometimes even sooner.

4. Flexible repayment tenure: Choose a repayment term of up to 32 years for comfortable EMIs.

5. Simple application: Take advantage of doorstep document collection for a smooth process.

6. Balance transfer facility: Move your existing home loan and get a top-up loan with better terms.

Take the next step toward owning your dream home with Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan and enjoy a seamless borrowing experience tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a home loan with less than 20% down payment?
Yes, many lenders offer home loans with less than 20% down payment. However, this may result in higher monthly EMIs, increased interest rates, or the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI). It’s essential to evaluate your budget and lender requirements before proceeding with a lower down payment.

What is PMI, and how does it relate to my down payment?
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is an additional cost required by lenders when your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s price. It protects the lender in case of loan default. A larger down payment can help you avoid PMI, reducing long-term expenses.

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