Even if you cannot afford a 20% down payment on your house, you may still be able to cross the threshold of your dream home. Many lenders will allow smaller down payments - as little as 5% in some cases. With smaller down payment loans, however, borrowers are usually required to carry private mortgage insurance (PMI) which means:
- you may be required to make an initial premium payment; and
- pay additional monthly fees on top of your regular mortgage payment
If these extra charges don’t sound appealing to you, you may consider a second trust loan or "Piggyback Loan."
What is a Piggyback Loan?
A piggyback loan is a combination of two loans that close at the same time to purchase a home. The most common piggyback loan is an 80/10/10.
- 80 percent of the home’s value is financed through a first mortgage.
- The remaining 20 percent is equally divided between a second, piggyback loan and the down payment.
Example
| Purchase Price |
1st Mortgage Amount |
Down Payment |
Piggyback Loan Amount |
| $200,000 |
$160,000
(80%) |
$20,000
(10%) |
$20,000
(10%) |
Piggyback Loans vs. PMI
As with every financial option, there are pros and cons associated with both piggyback loans and PMI. Choosing the option that’s best for you depends on your individual financial situation and your state’s regulations.
| TIP: Before deciding to select a piggyback loan instead of PMI, you should consult with a financial professional. |