A Shifting Housing Market Drives Down Payments to Four-Year Low

After years of post-pandemic highs, the era of outsized down payments is beginning to unwind AUSTIN, Texas, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The typical down payment fell to $23,400 in the first quarter of 2026, the lowest level since 2021, according to the latest Realtor.com ®  Down Payment Report. That represents a 19% decline year-over-year and the fourth consecutive quarterly drop, as rising inventory and moderating prices give buyers more negotiating room and reduce the pressure to lead with an outsized down payment.