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The Daily Insight

How much do you need to put down when buying a second home?

Author

Andrew Ramirez

Published Apr 01, 2026

The differences between mortgages on primary residences and second homes. On your primary mortgage, you might be able to put as little as 5% down, depending on your credit score and other factors. On a second home, however, you will likely need to put down at least 10%.

How do I get funding for a second home?

Mortgages for a second home You can pay in cash, remortgage your existing property or, if you’re an older homeowner, opt for equity release. If you are buying a second home, an online calculator can help you determine what your budget is.

On a second home, however, you will likely need to put down at least 10%. Because a second mortgage generally adds more financial pressure for a homebuyer, lenders typically look for a slightly higher credit score on a second mortgage.

When does it make sense to buy a second home?

Sometimes people buy a new house when they haven’t had success selling the first. Other homeowners might like the idea of buying a second home to fix up and sell at a fat profit – or to rent out. For the right individual, two homes may be a great plan.

Is it possible to own a second home in different states?

It’s not easy to maintain two properties that are in different states. However, you could buy your second home in a resort community with a management company that will take care of rentals and repairs.

How many people in the UK own a second home?

Almost one million people in the UK, about 4% of all households, own a second home. But if you are considering buying a second property, there are a number of things you should be aware of first. What is the best way to buy a second property?

Is it good to have a second home in retirement?

A second home could become a drain on your retirement finances. (Getty Images) The real estate market is heating up again after the devastation of the great recession, particularly in retirement meccas like the Carolinas, Florida, Texas and Arizona.