Buying a home is a dream, but that 20% down payment? It’s more like a nightmare. But here’s the secret: you don’t need 20%. I didn’t have that much saved up, but I still bought my first home with just 5% down. How? I started by looking for loan programs like FHA loans, which allowed for a smaller down payment. I also researched first-time homebuyer programs in my state, which offered assistance. I didn’t stop there. I focused on buying a house that wasn’t flashy—something in a good neighborhood but affordable. A smaller house meant a smaller down payment, and I could always upgrade later. The key is to do your research and find programs that work for you. Another trick? I negotiated closing costs with the seller, which saved me thousands. Buying a home doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. By thinking outside the box, I was able to secure a home with a manageable down payment—and I’m living in it today, with equity building every month. If I can do it, so can you.