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Half a million dollars may seem like a lot, even for a nice house — but in many American cities these days, it’s just the norm. In fact, the average home sale price in Q2 2025 was $510,800. The good news? Many mortgage programs allow qualified first-time homebuyers to put down as little as 3%, which means your down payment could be a relatively reasonable $15,000 on a $500,000 home.

Below, we’ll dive into the details about how to afford a $500,000 house.

How Much Income Do I Need to Afford a $500K Home?

Before you start to think about saving up a down payment, you may be wondering — do I make enough money to make the mortgage payments in the first place? There is some quick math we can do to help figure out your ballpark.

For starters, keep in mind that many financial experts recommend spending no more than 30% of your gross monthly income — the amount you make before taxes are deducted — on housing. That’s about a third. With that in mind, you can use a mortgage payment calculator to get a sense of what your monthly mortgage payments might look like.

For example, if you put $15,000 down on a $500,000 house for a 30-year home loan at a 7% interest rate, you’d pay about $3,200 per month toward your mortgage. That means you’d want to be making about three times that amount, or $9,600 per month, to comfortably afford the mortgage. That’s a yearly income of about $115,000.

Keep in mind that the $3,200 per month figure does not include expenses like mortgage insurance, homeowners insurance, or property taxes. So you would probably need a higher annual income to fully support your home purchase.

How Much Is the Down Payment for a $500K House?

How much of a down payment you’ll be required to put down on a $500,000 house depends on what kind of mortgage you take out — and your creditworthiness as a borrower. The lowest down payment a first-time homebuyer would likely be able to get away with is 3%, or $15,000, while a full 20% down payment would be $100,000.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

What Are the Down Payment Options for a Home Worth $500K?

Here’s the breakdown of the various down payment options for a home worth $500,000, depending on the type of mortgage you look into:

•   Those taking out a conventional home loan and wanting to avoid paying mortgage insurance would need to come up with $100,000 for a 20% down payment.

•   However, these days, qualified borrowers can get a conventional mortgage with a down payment as low as 3%, or $15,000 in this case. Other buyers may need to pony up 5%, or $25,000.

•   Government-backed FHA loans (Federal Housing Administration loans) are specifically designed for first-time homebuyers, and their minimum down payment is 3.5%, which works out to $17,500 for a $500,000 house.

•   Those who qualify for loans backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA loans) may be able to buy a home without any required down payment at all, though putting down something can help you build equity faster. You can also look into down payment assistance programs.

What Does the Monthly Mortgage Payment Look Like for a $500K Home?

There’s not one set formula for what your specific monthly mortgage payment will look like for a $500,000 home — because each loan is individually written based on your credit score, debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and other pieces of your financial profile. The size of your down payment, the length of the loan’s term, and other factors will also influence the final figure.

That said, if you put down $15,000 toward a $500,000 home on a 30-year fixed-interest home loan at 7.00%, you could expect to make monthly payments of about $3,200. Given that the median household income in the U.S. is just under $84,000, that payment may be tough for many Americans to make. If your income can’t support a $500,000 home, you could consider looking for more affordable places to live in the US.

On the other hand, if you were able to save up the full $100,000 down payment, the $500,000 house payment would cost closer to $2,700 per month. Or if you could score an interest rate just one percentage point lower, your payments would be $2,900 per month — even if you put down only the same $15,000.

What to Do Before You Apply for a $500K Home Mortgage

A mortgage on a $500,000 home could be a substantial amount of debt to go into. You may be able to save money by ensuring you get the very best loan terms you possibly can.

That’s why it’s a good idea to ensure you’re in the best financial standing possible before you put in your application. That means lowering your overall debt level (focusing especially on high-interest debt like credit card balances), carefully tending your credit score, and ensuring your income is both ample and reliable.

Should I Get Preapproved Before Applying for a Mortgage?

Getting preapproved for a mortgage gives you a leg up in a busy housing market. If you see a home you like and you’ve already got a preapproval letter in hand, you’ll be better able to swoop in before other prospective buyers.

That said, the mortgage preapproval process does usually entail a “hard” credit check (unlike a prequalification), so this step is best left for those who are very serious and ready to move if the right house shows up.

How to Get a $500K Home Mortgage

Most of applying for a home mortgage can be done online from the comfort of your home. You’ll be required to upload documentation proving your income and assets, but once you’ve gathered all the materials, the actual application is unlikely to take more than an hour to complete.

However, given the potential cost of a mortgage on a $500,000 home — whose interest could easily add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars over its three-decade term — it’s worth shopping around to ensure you’re getting the very best deal you can. Even just half a percentage point of interest can make a big difference over such a long span of time.

Recommended: The Cost of Living by State

The Takeaway

The full 20% down payment for a $500,000 home comes out to $100,000. That said, depending on your creditworthiness, you may be able to get away with putting down a much lower payment — as little as $15,000 if you’re a first-time homebuyer.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

How much should I make to afford a $500,000 house?

You need an income of $115,000 per year to cover the costs of a mortgage and closer to $150,000 to afford a mortgage plus expenses such as mortgage insurance and property taxes on a $500,000 house. The more debt you have, such as a car payment or student loan, the greater your income will need to be. The size of your down payment is also a factor. The greater the down payment, the lower your income would need to be to cover your monthly costs.

What credit score is needed to buy a $500,000 house?

Each mortgage lender has its own algorithm for qualifying borrowers. That said, many mortgage lenders look for a score of at least 620, and if you’re taking out a larger mortgage, the higher your score, the better the terms you’ll likely qualify for.

How much is a $500K mortgage per month?

The answer to this question depends on the loan’s term and the interest rate you qualify for. For those with a lower interest rate, the payment might be about $2,700 per month, while for those with a higher interest rate, the mortgage might top $3,200. Remember this is for principal and interest only. After homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and property taxes, your expenses will be higher.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOHL-Q126-081

Buying your first home is exciting, but figuring out how much cash you need upfront can feel overwhelming. For a $300,000 home, the down payment you’ll need depends on the type of mortgage you choose, your credit profile, and available first-time buyer programs.

If you go by the old rule of thumb and save up a 20% down payment, that means forking over $60,000 up front on a $300,000 home sale. However, most contemporary mortgages allow buyers to put down far less. First-time homebuyers can put down as little as 3%, which comes out to $9,000 on a $300,000 home. That said, there will likely be other upfront expenses to contend with, so saving up even more than that is still a good idea.

Let’s take a closer look at how to prepare for a $300,000 home purchase — including not only your down payment but also the amount of income you need to support your purchase.

How Much Income Do I Need to Afford a $300K Home?

Many financial experts say you shouldn’t be spending more than about 30% of your gross monthly income on your home loan. To simplify this even further, let’s just say a third of your gross income.

From here, we can do some reverse engineering and estimating to figure out how much income would likely support a $300,000 home purchase.

Using a mortgage calculator, let’s say you purchase a $300,000 home with a $9,000 down payment, a 7.00% interest rate, and a 30-year term. Your monthly payments would be about $1,936 a month. (Note: These figures are only estimates, and your real monthly payment will depend on your creditworthiness, your lender’s unique algorithm, and other factors.)

Using that one-third rule above, you’d need to be earning about $5,700 per month ($1,900 times three) before taxes to make your mortgage payments without overextending yourself financially. That comes out to an annual income of about $68,400.

Using a mortgage calculator with taxes and insurance will get you even closer to your true monthly number. When you factor in taxes and homeowners insurance, your monthly payment would be closer to $2,300. Returning to the one-third rule, you would need an annual income of $82,800.

Of course, if you have large amounts of existing debt, you may need a higher income to comfortably make your payments. Still, this can be a good point of reference to start with.

Recommended: The Cost of Living by State

How Much Is the Down Payment for a $300K House?

A 20% down payment may allow you to avoid paying PMI. On a $300,000 house, 20% is $60,000. But with conventional mortgages that allow qualified first-time homebuyers to put down as little as 3%, your down payment could be just $9,000.

However, depending on your credit score and other financial information, you may need to put down 5%, which would come out to $15,000.

Keep in mind, though, that the down payment isn’t the only upfront expense of homeownership. It doesn’t include closing costs, which could be as much as 3% to 6% of the home purchase price (which means another $9,000 to $18,000 for a $300,000 home). You’ll also need to factor in expenses related to moving, furnishing, repairing, and renovating your new home.

What Are the Down Payment Options for a Home Worth $300K?

Which down payment you’ll qualify for depends on the type of mortgage you take out and your credit history.

•   No matter what type of mortgage you choose, if you put down 20%, or $60,000, you’ll avoid paying mortgage insurance (PMI) as part of your monthly payment.

•   If you qualify for a conventional mortgage, you may be eligible to put down as little as 3%, or $9,000. (Other borrowers may be qualified for 5%, or $15,000.)

•   Those who qualify for an FHA home loan as a first-time homebuyer may put down as little as 3.5%, or $10,500.

•   If you’re an active service member, veteran, or surviving spouse, you may qualify for a VA loan. In some cases, you may be able to get a VA loan with no down payment.

If even a modest down payment feels out of reach, down payment assistance programs can also help.

What Does the Monthly Mortgage Payment Look Like for a $300K Home?

Your monthly mortgage payment will vary depending on your down payment, interest rate, the term of the loan (usually 15 or 30 years), and more. When calculating your specific loan options, your lender will take into consideration your personal credit factors and your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.

Using a mortgage payment calculator can help. A calculator would show that someone who puts down $9,000 on a $300,000 home for a 30-year fixed-interest mortgage at 7.00% would pay approximately $1,936 per month (not including property taxes, MIP, or homeowners insurance). Note that because of the way loans are amortized, the bulk of your monthly payments will go toward interest, rather than principal, during the first part of the loan’s lifetime.

Recommended: What Is Mortgage Amortization?

What to Do Before You Apply for a $300K Mortgage

If you want to maximize your chances for approval when applying for a $300,000 mortgage, consider taking some time to get your financial affairs in order.

What does this mean? Paying down large existing debts, especially high-interest debt like credit card balances, can lower your DTI and may win you more favorable mortgage terms (not to mention making it easier to make ends meet as far as other monthly expenses). Finding ways to increase your income can also improve your application — and make your financial life easier.

Should I Get Preapproved Before Applying for a Mortgage?

Getting preapproved for a home loan may help you understand how much of a loan is available to you based on your current financial standing — and to signal to real estate professionals and sellers that you’re serious.

Preapproval differs from prequalification in that it usually does require a “hard” credit check, so you should only do it if you’re truly ready to buy a house when the right one comes along — but if you are, it’ll give you the chance to get your foot in the door quickly.

Recommended: The Best Affordable Places in the U.S.

How to Get a $300K Mortgage

Getting a $300,000 mortgage typically starts with reviewing your finances and understanding what lenders look for. You’ll need steady income, a manageable debt-to-income ratio, and a solid credit score to qualify for favorable terms. Saving for a down payment and closing costs, comparing lenders, and choosing the right loan type can also improve your chances and affordability.

The Takeaway

The down payment for a $300K house could be as little as $9,000 or as much as $60,000 — or more. In some cases, a zero down payment loan is even possible. It all depends on what kind of mortgage you want and qualify for, as well as how much you can reasonably afford to fork over at the closing table.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

Can I afford a $300K house on a $70K salary?

If you have minimal debts, then a $70,000 salary might be enough to afford a $300,000 house. The size of your down payment and your mortgage interest rate will be important variables. Try to keep your monthly house payments below a third of your monthly gross income.

How much do you need to make to afford a $300K house?

When it comes to purchasing a home, a good rule of thumb is to ensure you’re paying no more than a third of your gross monthly income toward housing. You would need an annual income of about $82,000 to comfortably afford a $300,000 house when you factor in the mortgage payment, homeowners insurance costs, and taxes.

What credit score is needed to buy a $300,000 house?

Each lender has their own qualification schema as far as credit scores and other creditworthiness markers are concerned. That said, generally speaking, a credit score of at least 620 will help you qualify for more types of mortgages and open your options for shopping around.

Photo credit: iStock/undefined undefined

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOHL-Q126-080

An income of around $260,000 a year could allow you to afford a $900,000 mortgage, assuming you don’t have other significant debt, such as student loans. But a variety of factors determine how much house you can afford, including how much you have saved for a down payment and your credit history, to name two. The income needed for a $900K mortgage also comes down to the loan term and interest rate.

Here’s a closer look at the variables that impact how much house you can afford.

Income Needed for a $900,000 Mortgage

How much income is needed for a $900K mortgage loan? Though mortgages don’t carry specific income requirements, you’ll need to show that you can afford closing costs (typically 2% to 6% of the home sale price), the down payment, and the monthly payment.

Crunching the numbers with a home affordability calculator shows that the income needed for a home valued at $1,000,000 with a down payment of $100,000 is about $260,000. Note that multiple forms of income, such as dividends from investments, can count toward your gross income.

In many parts of the United States, a mortgage exceeding $832,750 is considered a jumbo loan. These larger mortgages typically have stricter lender requirements because they are nonconforming loans, meaning they’re not guaranteed by the government in the event of default.

So if you’re in the market for a $900,000 jumbo loan, you may need to put at least 10% down. Let’s suppose you qualify for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage with a 7% interest rate. Using a mortgage calculator, the monthly payment comes out to about $6,000 if you put 10%, or $100,000, toward a down payment on a property that costs $1,000,000.

Following the 28/36 rule, your home payments should be at or below 28% of your income. Total debt payments, including your mortgage payment, shouldn’t exceed 36% of your income. Using the example above, you’d need to earn $21,666 a month ($260,000 a year) to afford a $6,000 mortgage while still following the 28% guideline.

What Is a Good Debt-to-Income Ratio?

Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is calculated by dividing all your fixed monthly debts — like student loans or auto loans — by your gross monthly income. For a jumbo loan, a strong DTI ratio is essential to qualifying. Having a DTI ratio of 43% or less is recommended, though lenders may want to see a ratio as low as 36%.

What Determines How Much House You Can Afford?

A variety of factors determine how much house you can afford. So far, we’ve covered income, debt, and debt-to-income ratio. Additionally, your credit score and the amount you have saved for a down payment will impact your homebuying budget if financing a home purchase. If you have less saved for a down payment, you’ll need to demonstrate a strong credit history and that you can manage higher monthly payments.

Location plays a role in home affordability. A $900,000 mortgage goes a long way in the most affordable states. In pricier markets, a $900,000 mortgage can still open the door to homeownership, but with significantly less square footage.

Home affordability also varies between different types of mortgage loans. Certain government-backed loans let buyers put less money down, but this may mean being subject to private mortgage insurance.

Recommended: Cost of Living by State

What Mortgage Lenders Look For

What do you need to qualify for a $900,000 mortgage? Lenders look at a variety of factors when evaluating a borrower and setting the loan terms during the mortgage preapproval process. In terms of income, lenders prefer borrowers who have stable and predictable income. They’ll also consider your credit history, existing debt, down payment amount, and assets.

$900,000 Mortgage Breakdown Examples

A monthly payment on a $900K mortgage can vary widely depending on the type of mortgage and loan terms. Using a mortgage calculator with taxes and insurance included can give you a more exact estimate of your expected mortgage costs.

For example, suppose you secure a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 6% interest rate. With a 10%, or $100,000, down payment, you’d have a total monthly payment (principal, interest, insurance, and taxes) of $6,604.

Increasing the down payment to 20% would cut the monthly payment to $6,000. Whereas a jump in interest to 6.5% would bump up the monthly payment to $6,264.

In the 20% down payment scenario, which has the lowest monthly payment, you’d need to earn $21,666 a month ($260,000 a year) to satisfy the 28/36 rule. Again, this assumes that you don’t have significant other debts to pay each month.

Pros and Cons of a $900,000 Mortgage

Financing a larger home purchase has its advantages and drawbacks. A $900K mortgage can mean more funds for renovations and other financial goals.

On the other hand, a jumbo loan or larger mortgage is usually tougher to qualify for. In the case of a jumbo loan, rates could be higher since this loan type isn’t guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. And with a larger loan, you’ll see higher monthly payments and closing costs.

Recommended: I Make $300,000 a Year, How Much House Can I Afford?

How Much Will You Need for a Down Payment?

Borrowers can expect to put 10-20% toward a down payment on a $900,000 mortgage. This amounts to $100,000 – $200,000, and doesn’t include closing costs. Certain government-backed loans can allow a smaller down payment, but borrowing $900,000 is only possible in designated high-cost areas.

Can You Buy a $900K Home with No Money Down?

Buying a $900,000 home with no money down is possible in limited situations, but it’s not common. Some VA loans allow eligible borrowers to purchase a home with 0% down, even at higher price points, though jumbo loan rules and lender requirements still apply. Otherwise, most buyers will need a substantial down payment.

Can You Buy a $900K Home with a Small Down Payment?

If you don’t qualify for a VA loan, there are other options to consider. An FHA loan is a government-backed loan that only requires a down payment of 3.5% for borrowers with a credit score of 580 or higher.

The limit for high-cost areas is $1,249,125 for a single-family home. Homebuyers in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands could go up to $1,873,687 with a FHA loan.

With a conventional, fixed-rate loan, certain borrowers can put as little as 3-5% down on a home purchase.

Is a $900K Mortgage with No Down Payment a Good Idea?

Buyers who lack savings but have steady income and strong credit might consider a mortgage with no down payment. Putting less down means borrowing more, and in turn, paying more interest over the life of the loan. You’ll also be starting out with zero home equity if you don’t put any money down. When you put less than 20% down, you’re typically also on the hook for paying private mortgage insurance.

Keep in mind that if your credit score and financial situation change after you purchase your home, you can always consider a mortgage refinance to land more favorable mortgage loan terms.

How to Improve Your Chances of Approval

If you’re struggling to qualify for a $900K mortgage, there are steps you can take to improve your qualifications as a borrower.

Pay Off Debt

Tackling debt can improve your DTI ratio, effectively increasing your homebuying budget. Focusing on recurring debt that you can pay off in full in the near-term, such as credit cards or a personal loan, can deliver more immediate results.

Look into First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Are you a first-time homebuyer? If so, you could be eligible for down payment assistance to make homebuying more affordable. FHA loans allow qualified first-time buyers to put just 3.5% down on a home. It’s also possible to finance your closing costs with an FHA loan.

Recommended: Finding Down Payment Assistance Programs

Cultivate Your Credit

Keeping your credit utilization — the percentage of credit you’re using on credit cards and other lines of credit — below 30%, if possible, can reflect well on your credit score. Payment history is also a significant component of your credit score. Ensure you’re making minimum monthly payments on any revolving credit every month.

Start Budgeting

After crunching the numbers on homebuying costs, setting up a budget can help you pay off debt or save up for a down payment. Budgeting is also a useful exercise for understanding how much you can reasonably afford in monthly mortgage payments.

Alternatives to Conventional Mortgage Loans

Homebuyers can consult a home loan help center to learn about other financing ideas, and may want to explore other means for buying a home besides conventional mortgages and government-backed loans.

•   Jumbo loans: Many lenders provide these mortgage loans, which exceed the maximum dollar limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).

•   Interest-only mortgages: Here, borrowers make smaller, interest-only monthly payments for a set period before having to cover principal and interest.

•   Balloon mortgage: Borrowers make low monthly payments for a short period of time before the entire loan balance comes due at the end of the term.

The Takeaway

The income needed for a $900,000 mortgage depends on your personal finances and the type of home loan. Increasing your down payment, reducing recurring debt, and keeping up good credit habits could up your homebuying budget and help you land a lower interest rate.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

What income do you need for a $900,000 mortgage?

To afford a $900,000 mortgage, you’ll need to make $260,000 or more a year. Buyers with more money saved for a down payment could still qualify while earning less.

How much do I need to make for a $800K house?

You need to make at least $200,000 a year to comfortably afford a $800K house, assuming you don’t have significant recurring debt.

Can you buy a house with a $40K salary?

You can afford a house priced around $100,000-$110,000 on a $40K salary. This assumes you have some money for a down payment and are not carrying significant debt, such as a student loan or auto loan.

Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOHL-Q126-093

When you’re preparing to buy a home, understanding the early steps in the mortgage process can make your search smoother and more effective.

Two common terms you’ll hear are prequalification and preapproval — each gives lenders and home sellers insight into your borrowing potential, but they differ in how they evaluate your finances and how much confidence they provide in your ability to secure a loan. Knowing the distinction helps you plan better, shop smarter, and present stronger offers in a competitive housing market.

Here’s a look at how these two steps vary, how each can play a part in a home-buying strategy, and how one in particular can increase the chances of having a purchase offer accepted.

What Does Prequalified Mean?

Getting prequalified is a way of finding out how much you might be able to borrow to purchase a home and what your monthly payments might be.

To get prequalified for a home loan, you’ll provide a few financial details to mortgage lenders. The lenders use this unverified information, usually along with a soft credit inquiry, which does not affect your credit scores, to let you know how much you may be able to borrow and at what interest rate.

You might want to get prequalified with several lenders to compare monthly payments and interest rates, which vary by mortgage term. But because the information provided has not been verified, there’s no guarantee that the mortgage or the amount will be approved.

Recommended: How Much House Can I Afford?

What Does It Mean to Be Preapproved?

Preapproval for a mortgage loan requires a more thorough investigation of your income sources, debts, employment history, assets, and credit history. Verification of this information, along with a hard credit pull from all three credit bureaus (which may cause a small, temporary reduction in your credit scores), allows the lender to conditionally preapprove a mortgage before you shop for homes.

A preapproval letter from a lender stating that you qualify for a loan of a specific amount can be useful or essential in a competitive real estate market. When sellers are getting multiple offers, some will disregard a purchase offer if it isn’t accompanied by a preapproval letter.

When seeking preapproval, besides filling out an application, you will likely be asked to submit the following to a lender for verification:

•   Social Security number and card

•   Photo ID

•   Recent pay stubs

•   Tax returns, including W-2 statements, for the past two years

•   Two to three months’ worth of documentation for checking and savings accounts

•   Recent investment account statements

•   List of fixed debts

•   Residential addresses from the past two years

•   Down payment amount and a gift letter, if applicable

The lender may require backup documentation for certain types of income. Freelancers may be asked to provide 1099 forms, a profit and loss statement, a client list, or work contracts. Rental property owners may be asked to show lease agreements.

You should be ready to explain any negative information that might show up in a credit check. To avoid surprises, you might want to order free credit reports from www.annualcreditreport.com. A credit report shows all balances, payments, and derogatory information but does not give credit scores.

Calculate Your Potential Mortgage

Use the following mortgage calculator to get an idea of what your monthly mortgage payment would look like.

Do Preapproval and Prequalification Affect Credit Scores?

Getting prequalified shouldn’t affect your credit scores. Only preapproval requires a hard credit inquiry, which can affect scores. But the good news for mortgage shoppers is that multiple hard pulls are typically counted as a single inquiry as long as they’re made within the same 14 to 45 days.

Newer versions of FICO® allow a 45-day window for rate shoppers to enjoy the single-inquiry advantage; older versions of FICO and VantageScore 3.0 narrow the time to 14 days.

You might want to ask each lender you apply with which credit scoring model they use.

Do I Have to Spend How Much I’m Preapproved for?

No, you don’t have to spend the full amount you’re preapproved for on a mortgage. Preapproval shows the maximum a lender is willing to offer based on your finances, not what you should borrow. Choosing a lower-priced home can leave room in your budget for savings, emergencies, and other financial goals.

Recommended: Guide to First-Time Home Buying

Are Prequalification and Preapproval the Same Thing?

Prequalification and preapproval are not one and the same. Here’s a visual on what’s needed for each:

Do I Need a Prequalification Letter to Buy a House?

No, you do not need a prequalification letter to buy a house, nor do you have to have a preapproval letter when making an offer on a house.

But getting prequalified can allow you to quickly get a ballpark figure on a mortgage amount and an interest rate you qualify for, and preapproval has at least three selling points:

1.    Preapproval lets you know the specific amount you are qualified to borrow from a particular lender.

2.    Going through preapproval before house hunting could take some stress out of the loan process by easing the mortgage underwriting step. Underwriting, the final say on mortgage approval or disapproval, comes after you’ve been preapproved, found a house you love and agreed on a price, and applied for the mortgage.

3.    Being preapproved for a loan helps to show sellers that you’re a vetted buyer.

The Takeaway

In the homebuying process, understanding the difference between mortgage prequalification and preapproval can make your search smoother and more strategic. Prequalification gives you a general idea of what you may afford, while preapproval involves verified financials and can strengthen your offers in a competitive market. Knowing when to use each step helps you shop confidently and prepares you to move quickly when you find the right home.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

What is mortgage prequalification?

It’s an early step where a lender estimates how much you might be able to borrow based on basic financial information you provide.

What does mortgage preapproval mean?

Preapproval is a more formal process where the lender verifies your income, debts, and credit, and may issue a conditional approval for a specific loan amount.

How do prequalification and preapproval differ in documentation?

Prequalification uses self-reported details, while preapproval requires verified documentation like pay stubs and tax returns.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
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Thanks to high demand and inflation, the cost of home repairs has been on the rise. In 2025, the average household spent $2,041 on maintenance and $1,143 on emergency repairs, according to Angi’s State of Home Spending Report. The report also found Millennials led all generations in spending, with an average total home spend of $14,199, including the highest maintenance ($2,601) and emergency ($1,519) expenditures.

The most common home repairs include the usual suspects: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, water damage, and termite damage. Keep reading to learn more about these issues and the cost of repair or replacement, so you can pick up tips on maintaining the value of your home and be prepared for repairs when reality bites.

Estimated Cost of the Most Common Home Repairs

Low-cost preventive measures — like cleaning your gutters or getting your heating and cooling systems serviced annually — can help keep common home repair costs down. But even with the best preparation, surprises (like a busted pipe or roof leak) happen, and when they do, you can be on the hook for thousands of dollars. Whether you’re a new or longtime homeowner, it’s a good idea to plan for — and budget for — home repairs.

Below is a roundup of the most common home repairs and average costs.

Foundation Repair

A number of different issues can occur with foundations, some of which are more serious (aka, costly) than others. Among the most common problems are foundation cracks, which can be caused by house settling or changes in soil pressure around the home. Cracks can lead to water damage or cause the walls in your foundation or home to bow. Foundations can also begin to sink, due to changing weather patterns, nearby tree roots, or erosion.

Since the foundation is the footprint of your home, repairs can be complicated and expensive. According to Angi, foundation repair costs can range anywhere from $2,224 to $8,129.

Average cost of foundation repair: $5,172

Electrical Issues

While there are many home repairs you can safely DIY, electrical issues and wiring are generally best left to professional electricians. Working with live wires can be dangerous and faulty electrical work can be a significant fire hazard. Some signs you may need to call an electrician include:

•   Burning smell coming from an outlet

•   Buzzing or sizzling noises coming from an outlet

•   Flickering lights

•   Outlets feel hot to the touch

•   You have 2- rather than 3-prong outlets

•   Circuit breaker continually trips

•   Appliances spark when plugged in

Depending on the length and complexity of the job, the cost of hiring an electrician ranges between $163 and $536. Installing a new outlet can run $100 to $450, while replacing a breaker panel can cost anywhere from $519 to $2,187.

Average cost of electrical repairs: $348

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Roof Repair

Your roof protects your home from the elements, so it’s important to keep it in top condition. If you notice any damage or signs of wear and tear, you’ll want to address them sooner rather than later. This can help prevent small problems from becoming serious and expensive. Signs that your roof may be compromised include broken, cracked, curling, or missing shingles, and any interior signs of water damage (such as dark spots or discoloration on walls or ceiling and/or mold or rotting wood in the attic).

The cost of a roof repair will depend on your home’s location, roofing material, size of your home, and the type of roof. On average, costs run between $393 and $1,939. By contrast, a full roof replacement can run between $5,870 to $13,223. Due to the significant price difference, you would generally only invest in a new roof if the damage to your existing roof is extensive or the roof is near the end of its life.

Average cost of roof repairs: $1,158

Repair or Replace a Water Heater

Due to mineral buildup and the routine breakdown of components, water heaters do not last forever. Depending on how extensive the repairs your water heater requires, you can be on the hook for a new unit entirely. And if you’ve ever taken a cold shower in the middle of winter, you know this is one repair that is essential to your quality of life.

On average, homeowners spend anywhere from $222 to $990 on water heater repairs. Your actual bill will depend on the cost of the part needed for the fix, how much your local water heater professional charges for labor, and the length of the job. Where you live and where the water heater is located in your home can also impact costs.

Average cost of water heater repairs: $606

Water Damage

Water damage is fairly common. It can result from a crack in an old pipe, a leaky roof, an unusually strong storm, or sewage backup. To prevent mold growth and further damage, it’s best to fix the issue and clear out moisture as soon as you spot it.

Water damage restoration can involve replacing wallboard, flooring, and/or ceilings, as well as ensuring that no mold spores are left behind to spread once the repairs are complete. Two important factors influencing price are the square footage affected and the type of water (i.e., whether it’s clean or has been contaminated with potentially harmful substances). The cost of water damage restoration generally ranges between $1,384 and $6,387.

Average cost to fix water damage: $3,867

Replacing Pipes

Replacing older pipes is a common home repair often needed after a home inspection. Common problems include dated construction materials with a known problem in their manufacturing, signs of corrosion, clogs, and leaks. And because pipes run behind walls and underground, repair costs often include patching up interior holes and dug-up yards.

The good news is that not all leaks, burst pipes, and signs of corrosion require replacing large amounts of plumbing. Often, a plumber can replace a small section of the pipe affected by the damage. The cost to install pipes for a repair ranges from $372 to $2,131, though it can run higher if the damaged pipes are difficult to access.

Average cost to install pipes: $1,251

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Septic System Repair

A septic tank contains and filters household wastewater. If it is damaged or not functioning properly, it’s important to deal with the problem quickly — otherwise, you could be dealing with a smelly and costly mess. Sewage backups can occur when the septic tank becomes clogged or full, there’s a problem with devices within the tank, or there’s a blockage in the home’s main drain line leading to the tank.

Depending on the type of repair, tank size, permits, and other factors, the cost of a septic tank repair runs, on average, between $628 and $3,039. A small fix like repairing a septic tank lid could cost less ($150 to $500); but if you need to replace the tank, you could be looking at a bill as high as $12,000.

Average cost to repair a septic system: $1,830

Heating or Air Conditioning Repair

Your home’s HVAC (which stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable to live in. Though there are many different types of HVAC systems, they generally all work by using energy to heat or cool the air to a desired temperature. The system may also add/remove moisture and filter your home’s indoor air.

An HVAC system typically has two main components: a heater (which could be a furnace, boiler, or heat pump) and an air conditioning (AC) unit. The type of system you have and the component that’s broken will significantly influence the cost of repairs. For example, an AC system repair can run anywhere from $130 to $2,000, while a furnace repair tends to run between $132 and $503. On average, homeowners spend between $130 and $2,000 on HVAC repairs.

Average cost to fix a heating or air conditioning system: $350

Mold Removal

Mold develops inside homes as a result of moisture and can lead to health problems. Signs that you may have a mold problem include:

•   Musty odor in a specific area

•   Discoloration on the walls

•   Peeling, cracking, or warping of floors or walls

•   Leaks or water damage

•   Darkening around tile grout

•   Worsening of allergy symptoms

While you may be able to remove small amounts of mold yourself (provided you’re certain the mold isn’t toxic), often the best option is to hire a mold remediation professional.

The cost for mold removal will vary widely depending on where it is located in your home. Mold growth in hard-to-reach areas, like drywall or your HVAC system, generally costs more to remediate since it can require more time, materials, and labor. The size of the infestation and the type of mold that is growing also influence costs. On average, mold removal runs between $1,223 and $3,753.

Average cost of mold removal: $2,367

Termite Damage

The problem with termites is that they literally eat away at your house. They can also eat through your budget: The cost to repair termite damage can range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or even more.

Generally, the longer termites chew on the wooden structure of your home, the more costly the repair will be, so it’s key to recognize — and deal with — any signs of a termite infestation early. If you catch a termite problem early, for example, you may only need to replace a few damaged boards or joists, which can run from $250 to $1,000. If the problem goes on for a while, however, you may need to replace damaged walls, framing, or floors — at a cost of $1,000 to $3,000. Worst-case scenario: Termites do enough damage to your home’s infrastructure (like beams or load-bearing walls) that it becomes structurally unsound. A major termite repair job can run you more than $37,000.

Average cost to repair termite damage: $3,000

Factors That Affect Home Repair Costs

Home repair costs can vary widely based on geographic location and other cost drivers. These are the things that might influence your bill:

Age of the Home

Not surprisingly, older homes will typically have higher repair costs. Sometimes the repair itself isn’t the driver of the increase, but rather the costs associated with postrepair restoration, such as repairing plaster walls or replacing intricate woodwork. The higher cost of buying a fixer upper can stick with you even after an initial renovation if the renovation is cosmetic and doesn’t address underlying mechanical issues such as dated wiring or plumbing.

Location and Labor Costs

The cost of living in the area where your home is located will help determine your repair costs. In higher-cost areas, labor costs also tend to be higher.

Materials and Permit Fees

Constructions materials costs have increased alongside labor costs and even outstripped them in some cases. Copper (used in wiring) and other electrical components have seen especially intense cost increases. Building permit costs vary widely by geography but high-cost areas often tend to have high permit costs. Moreover, this is one cost that is entirely out of the control of the homeowner or the contractor.

Average Cost of Home Repairs

Trying to predict — and budget for — home repairs can be challenging. However, there are several rules of thumb that can help homeowners. Being prepared for home repair costs is one of those personal finance basics you’ll want to have a handle on as a homeowner.

•   The 1% Rule. One common guideline is to set aside approximately 1% of your home’s value annually for home maintenance.

•   The Square Foot Rule. Another formula is to set aside $1 for every square foot of livable space.

•   The 10% Rule. Put aside 10% of all your main monthly expenses.

If you don’t have enough savings to cover the cost of a necessary home repair, there are financing options, including a home equity line of credit (HELOC), a home equity loan, or a credit card (though this can be an expensive choice).

You can also use a personal loan to cover the cost of home repairs or improvements.

How to Budget for Home Repairs

One way to ensure you have cash on hand when home repair needs arise is to plan ahead and start budgeting and saving in advance.

Creating a Home Maintenance Fund

You can help ensure you’ve saved a cushion for repairs by creating a home maintenance fund.

Emergency vs. Planned Repairs

It’s one thing to create a maintenance fund and periodically do some preventive maintenance.

Home Warranty Considerations

Some homeowners choose to pay for a home warranty in order to ensure that repair costs are covered when the time comes.

Quick Tip: Check out SoFi’s home improvement loan rates to find competitive options for financing your next repair or renovation project.

The Takeaway

It’s tough to predict the cost of home repairs.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How do I estimate home repair costs?

As a general rule, experts estimate that your annual home repair costs will average either $1 per square foot or 10% of your housing costs.

What repairs are usually not covered by homeowners insurance?

Every homeowners insurance policy is slightly different.

When should I hire a professional instead of doing it myself?

Assuming you aren’t a licensed tradesperson, it’s best to hire a professional.

How much should I budget annually for home repairs?

There are several guidelines for budgeting for home repair.

What is the most expensive home repair?

The most expensive home repairs tend to be foundation repairs, full roof or septic tank replacements, or repairs due to extensive termite damage.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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