Mortgage Navigator • Conventional • Transaction Funds

Minimum borrower contribution

A conventional buyer does not always need their own cash for the down payment.

Fannie one-unit primary

For an eligible one-unit principal residence, Fannie does not require a minimum contribution from the borrower's own funds solely because gift funds are being used—even above 80% LTV.

Fannie 2–4 units and second homes

Above 80% LTV/CLTV/HCLTV, Fannie generally requires a 5% contribution from the borrower's own funds for 2–4 unit principal residences and second homes when gifts are involved, subject to product-specific exceptions.

Freddie primary residence

Freddie's current standard framework does not require a minimum borrower personal-funds contribution for a 1–4 unit primary residence solely because gifts are used. For a second home above 80% LTV/TLTV/HTLTV, Freddie requires 5% from borrower personal funds when gift funds are used.

Product exceptions matter: HomeReady, Home Possible, shared-equity and other specialized products can have their own minimum-contribution rules.

Official guide baseline

Fannie Mae Selling Guide · Freddie Mac Seller/Servicer Guide

Program terms, AUS findings and lender overlays control. DPA program eligibility must also be verified with the program administrator.