Can't stop thinking about that big butt?
Not that butt — the “BUT” in buying a home.
“We'd love to buy a home BUT….we don't have 20% down”
That hesitation — I get it! Rates are higher, budgets feel tighter, and the market looks different than 10 years ago. You ask, how are people doing it? I sat down with mortgage lender Brianna Peroza aka @mortgagemama on Instagram at TOTAL MORTGAGE in North Andover and she educated me on solutions she offers for buyers that don't have 20% down.
Don't Let That Big “But” Hold You Back
Did you know with the right lender there are programs that offer a 3–5% down payments that are conventional loans?
Down payments aren't as fixed as they seem — and I work with mortgage lenders like Brianna that can find the right programs so homeownership can become a reality. Here's what makes down payments subjective when you have the right lender:
Custom loan programs
You're probably thinking — “for first time home buyers, vets. Old news, Kimiyo.” There's also conventional programs for buyers that are not first timers or vets with down payments between 3–5%.
Exclusive incentives
Some lenders offer private programs or investor-backed loans that large banks can't match.
Personalized approach
Lenders we work with take your entire financial picture into account — not just your credit score — to find the most competitive rate.
In today's market finding a lender who knows how to tailor one to you can make or break your home buying experience.
The Housing Market Has Shifted for Buyers
The frenzy years are behind us — now buyers can actually think before they offer.
Rockingham Median Price (2026)
$552,000
down from $580,000 in 2025
Avg. Days on Market
40 days
up from 22 — more breathing room!
Southern New Hampshire Still Wins Financially
Even with today's rates, the numbers keep leaning north:
Bottom line: Southern NH's tax advantage cancels out much of the “interest rate” effect.
Timing Still Matters (Hint: Waiting Usually Costs More)
It's tempting to say “Let's just blow our money on fun stuff, we will never be able to save 20%!”
Let's talk and get a strategy in place that can get you on the road to getting into your own home. Don't let that big 'but' stop you.
Ready to Move Forward?
Good News, right?
That 'but' doesn't have to stop you from buying a home. Did this get you excited? Let's connect and see what's out there.
Let's Talk