If you’re thinking about buying your first home in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, or Agoura Hills, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially when it comes to saving for a down payment.

A lot of buyers still believe they need to put 20% down to get into a home. But here’s the truth: you don’t need 20% to buy a home in today’s market.

What’s the Average Down Payment for First-Time Buyers?

According to the National Association of Realtors, the median down payment for first-time homebuyers is just 9%—not 20%. In fact, low down payment mortgage options are more accessible than ever.

👉 FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down
👉 VA and USDA loans may require zero down (for those who qualify)
👉 Some conventional loans allow just 3% down for qualified borrowers

That’s a game-changer if you’ve been holding off, thinking you need to save tens of thousands more before taking that next step.

Down Payment Assistance in Ventura County: Are You Missing Out?

Here’s where it gets even better: There are local and state programs that can help cover part of your down payment—and most buyers don’t realize they qualify.

Did you know that nearly 80% of first-time homebuyers are eligible for down payment assistance, yet only 13% actually use it?

That’s a huge missed opportunity—especially with some programs offering up to $17,000 in assistance.

These homebuyer assistance programs in Ventura County can help bridge the gap between what you’ve saved and what you need, often making homeownership possible sooner than expected.

So, Do You Need 20% Down To Buy a Home in Westlake Village or Thousand Oaks?

Not at all. That’s one of the biggest home buying myths still floating around. In today’s real estate market, especially in Conejo Valley, there are plenty of affordable home loan options with low down payments—and even grant and assistance programs to give your savings a boost.

Final Thought: You Might Be Closer Than You Think

If you’ve been pausing your home search because of the down payment, it’s time to rethink your strategy. You may be closer to homeownership in Agoura Hills, Oak Park, or Newbury Park than you realize.

The best next step? Talk to a trusted local lender who can help you explore your options and see if you qualify for any down payment assistance programs near you.

Want to chat with a local expert about your home buying goals in Conejo Valley?
Reach out today—we're here to help you navigate the process and find the right path forward.