How Fast Can You Save for a Down Payment?

Saving for a down payment is often the biggest hurdle for a first-time homebuyer. Depending on where you live, median income, median rents, and home prices all vary. So, we set out to find out how long would it take you to save for a down payment in each state?

Using data from the United States Census Bureau and Zillow, we determined how long it would take, nationwide, for a first-time buyer to save enough money for a down payment on their dream home. There is a long-standing ‘rule’ that a household should not pay more than 28% of their income on their monthly housing expense.

By determining the percentage of income spent renting a 2-bedroom apartment in each state, and the amount needed for a 10% down payment, we were able to establish how long (in years) it would take for an average resident to save enough money to buy a home of their own.

According to the data, residents in Iowa can save for a down payment the quickest in just under 2 years (1.99). Below is a map created using the data for each state:

What if you only needed to save 3%?

What if you were able to take advantage of one of Freddie Mac’s or Fannie Mae’s 3% down programs? Suddenly, saving for a down payment no longer takes 5 or 10 years, but becomes attainable in a year or two in many states as shown in the map below.

Bottom Line

Whether you have just started to save for a down payment, or have been saving for years, you may be closer to your dream home than you think! Let’s meet up so I can help you evaluate your ability to buy today – give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

701 S Reynolds Lane Show Low, AZ 85901

$462,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,534 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6638533

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Adorable home and amazing location! Gorgeous vaulted ceilings, 3bed/2bath split floor plan, large open kitchen and living space. Get cozy during the winters next to the beautiful stone gas fireplace, enjoy the springtime and summers on one of the large front or back decks and oversized fully fenced backyard! Spacious master bedroom includes large walk-in closet, double vanity, and jetted tub. This home is located in town nearby the hospital, grocery stores, and shopping all while being surrounded by tall pines and views throughout the neighborhood. Show Low Bluff Trail/Show Low Creek is only two minutes away, and you can even hear when the Elk are bugling! Whether you are searching for your primary home, or vacation home this is a MUST SEE! *Mounted coat rack, and TV Mount do not convey

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16420 N Thompson Peak Parkway Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$462,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,338 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673472

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Unique end unit with Camelback & City lights views! Split floor plan, windows across the back to capture light and those McDowell mountain views. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths - split floor plan. 1 car garage. Gated neighborhood. New flooring throughout (2022), new granite kitchen & bathroom countertops, frameless shower door in primary bathroom. All new appliances (2017). Kitchen breakfast bar updated and lowered! Great room floor plan with fireplace w/ accent wall to the ceiling and plenty of room for your sectional and dining room table. High ceilings. Perfect for a full-time resident or someone looking for a lock and leave property. 1 car garage, no other parking for an owners second car in the development (only guest parking). Only mins to Westworld entertainment/events, fine dining, golf, hiking trails, and much more. Award-winning McDowell Mountain Ranch has a large range of luxury amenities within the community and nearby including two recently renovated community parks, community center featuring pickleball, heated pool and spa, splash pad, basketball court, large grass area, and tennis courts. McDowell Sonoran Preserve and trail system, McDowell Mountain Golf Club, City of Scottsdale Aquatic.

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17713 W Granite View Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$462,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6689381

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You've just found the perfect home! This beautiful cul-de-sac abode features 3 beds, 2 baths & DEN (Den can easily converted to a 4th bdrm), &.. a 2-car garage! Well-maintained interior showcases an open floor plan graced with abundant natural light, wood-like tile flooring, and neutral paint throughout. Stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, granite counters, recessed & pendant lighting, ample white cabinets with crown molding, subway tile backsplash, and a practical island with a breakfast bar complete this spotless kitchen. Serene primary bedroom includes plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. PLUS! You'll have a dedicated den/office. With its covered patio and pavers, the backyard is perfect for unwinding or stargazing! This rare find won't disappoint. Newer Super cute & clean home that is absolute turn key!! Compare VS new construction and SAVE$$$$ big time! Low maintenance landscaping - lock and leave easy living. The Pride of Homeownership shows in this one..! Surrounded by majestic mountains and wide-open desert vistas, life in Estrella is a masterpiece of harmonious balance dynamic-yet serene offering young couples, families and retirees a resort-inspired lifestyle with state-of-the-art amenities.

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6521 S 43rd Drive Laveen, AZ 85339

Open House

$462,500

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,169 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6676880

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Sharp FORMER MODEL 3BR/3BA plus den shows beautifully. Lots of upgrades including spacious island kitchen overlooking family room, complete with upgraded cherry cabinets, granite, and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs features Primary bedroom, guest room with en-suite bath, and open den/loft area with built-in cabinets/desk. One full bedroom/bath downstairs as well. Upgraded plank-style wood flooring, custom window coverings, upgraded bay windows in dining & kitchen complete the interior of this wonderful home. Double French doors lead to spacious backyard complete with covered patio, gazebo and mature landscaping. All of this, and cllose to Cesar Chavez park, schools, shopping and restaurants. This home shows very well and will NOT disappoint! Welcome home!

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