What Is the Average Down Payment in New Hampshire?

🏡 What Is the Average Down Payment in New Hampshire?

Many homebuyers in New Hampshire are surprised to learn that they do not need 20% down.

In fact, most buyers across Central NH — including Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Ashland, Bristol, and Rumney — put down far less.

Here’s what buyers actually put down and what loan programs make low down payments possible.

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1. USDA Loans — 0% Down

Many NH towns qualify for USDA, especially rural areas.

0% down payment

Income limits apply

Property must be in an eligible area

Very popular in Grafton County

Rumney, Dorchester, Wentworth, and many towns outside Plymouth qualify.

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2. VA Loans — 0% Down (For Veterans)

If you’re a veteran, NH is very VA-friendly.

0% down

No mortgage insurance

Flexible credit requirements

Veterans often buy with zero down and strong terms.

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3. FHA Loans — 3.5% Down

The most common loan for NH first-time buyers.

Requirements:

580+ credit score = 3.5% down

500–579 = 10% down

Great for older homes, cabins, and rural properties.

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4. Conventional Loans — 3%–5% Down

A strong option if you have good credit.

3% down (First-time buyers)

5% down (Most borrowers)

Better long-term pricing with higher credit scores

Conventional loans are popular for competitive areas near Plymouth and Bristol.

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5. The REAL Average Down Payment in NH

Across most transactions:

👉 The average NH buyer puts down 3%–5%.

Many buyers buy with:

0% USDA

0% VA

3.5% FHA

The old “20% down” rule rarely applies.

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6. Should You Put More Down?

You may benefit from a larger down payment if:

Your credit score is low

You want a lower monthly payment

You want to avoid PMI

You’re buying a second home

But for most first-time NH buyers, 3%–5% is perfect.

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Q&A

Q: What is the average down payment in NH?

A: Most NH buyers put down 3%–5%, not 20%.

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Keywords

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Jim Johnson Real Estate

Phone: 857-249-7392

Serving Plymouth, Campton & Central New Hampshire

Brokered by Three Hills Real Estate Service