How Much Cash Do You REALLY Need to Buy a Home? (Down Payment, Closing Costs & Myths Explained) | Closing The Deal Ep. 57

Most buyers don’t rule themselves out because they can’t buy a home — they rule themselves out because they don’t understand the numbers.In this episode of Closing the Deal, Zach Dickson and Sam Enright break down how much cash you actually need to buy a home, where that money goes, and why outdated myths (like needing 20% down) stop so many buyers before they ever start.We cover:Why cash feels so intimidating for buyersThe truth about down payments (including 3%, 3.5%, and 0% options)What closing costs really includeHow seller concessions and down payment assistance workWhat “reserves” are — and when they actually matterWhy there is no one-size-fits-all numberHow to think about cash realistically, not emotionallyIf cash has been the one thing holding you back from buying a home, this episode is designed to remove fear, add clarity, and help you plan without pressure.🎧 Whether you’re buying in 3 months or 3 years, learning now puts you in control later.00:00 – Why buyers rule themselves out before knowing the numbers01:15 – Why cash feels so intimidating when buying a home03:30 – The 20% down myth and where it actually comes from05:45 – Down payment options: 3%, 3.5%, and 0% loans explained07:20 – What closing costs really include (and how much they are)10:30 – Seller concessions & down payment assistance strategies12:40 – What “reserves” are and when lenders care about them15:10 – Why there’s no magic cash number for every buyer17:45 – How to think about cash realistically (not emotionally)20:30 – Planning vs committing: why learning early matters23:10 – Timing your purchase without forcing it25:00 – Why starting the conversation early changes everything26:45 – Final thoughts: removing fear and gaining clarity