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Down Payment Savings Calculator

Calculate how long it will take to save for your down payment and see a month-by-month savings plan.

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Key Facts
Updated April 2026
  • FHA loans require only 3.5% down; conventional can go as low as 3%
  • 20% down avoids PMI ($100-300/month) and CMHC insurance in Canada
  • High-yield savings accounts earn 4.2-4.8% APY on your down payment savings
  • Canadian FHSA allows $8,000/year tax-deductible savings for first home
  • Average first-time buyer puts down 6-8%, not 20%
Pro Tips

Keep down payment savings in a HYSA — never in stocks for goals under 5 years.

Direct 100% of tax refunds and bonuses to your down payment fund to accelerate the timeline.

Check state/provincial first-time buyer programs — many offer $5,000-$15,000 in assistance.

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