In what situations might lenders require a larger down payment?

Lenders often require a larger down payment for investment properties and non-owner occupied homes due to the increased risk associated with these types of properties. When a borrower is purchasing an investment property, lenders view this as a higher risk compared to a primary residence. This is because, in the event of financial difficulties, borrowers are more likely to default on a property that does not serve as their main residence.

Investment properties can also be subject to more market fluctuations, and the added financial strain can lead to a higher likelihood of foreclosure. Consequently, by requiring a larger down payment, lenders mitigate their risk by ensuring that borrowers have more of their own money invested in the property upfront. This larger investment can suggest a greater commitment from the borrower to maintain the property and ensure it remains profitable.

In contrast, first-time home buyers with strong credit would typically be viewed as lower risk, potentially qualifying for lower down payment options. A long credit history may indicate reliability, which might not necessitate a larger down payment. Moreover, the location of the property does not typically influence down payment requirements in a uniform way; therefore, a situation where lenders would require a larger down payment strictly based on whether a property is in an urban area is not common.