When you are buying a new construction condo, you need to make a down payment, just as you would if you were purchasing any other type of property. Down payments are a little more complex for new construction condos than they are for other types of housing, however. There is an initial deposit, followed by deposits at project checkpoints. Let’s explain how it works.
Let’s say you have found a project you want to invest in. One of the first steps will be to sign a non-binding reservation agreement. You will then make your first payment. This first deposit to buy a new construction condo usually ranges between 5% and 10%.
It is still possible to back out at this stage. But once you sign the contract (see below), you will be locked in.
Condo projects can take years to complete, which is why there are milestones along the way. During these milestones, you will need to make additional deposits.
How much all the deposits add up to can vary. But it is often something like four deposits of 5% each, adding up to a total of 20%. So, you will not typically be paying an unusually high amount.
A quick clarification:
Take note that the builder deposits usually count toward your down payment. So you do not have to pay the deposits and a separate down payment. Your deposits are your down payment.
That is why we are referring somewhat interchangeably to down payments and deposits in this guide.
If the lender wants 20% upfront, and you paid 20% in deposits, the lender probably will count the deposits toward the down payment requirement, and you won’t owe further down payment.
But if the lender wants 20%, and you paid only 15% in deposits, you probably will have to furnish another 5% in down payment funds to the lender.
Why are some deposit amounts 5%, and others 10%? Here are some of the factors that can drive variations in amounts:
In more competitive, high-demand markets, deposit requirements can be significantly higher. For example, in cities like Miami and New York, developers may require 30% to 40% down for certain projects, especially luxury condo developments. This reflects increased risk, higher property values, and stronger demand in these markets.
To make sure you can budget correctly for your investment in a new construction condo, here are some questions you should ask before you move forward.
By knowing the exact schedule of deposits and amounts, you will be able to plan ahead to set aside the amount of money you will need for each. You do not want to get caught off guard at any step along the way.
Lending Bankers Mortgage can help you buy a pre- or post-construction condo in Miami
or anywhere in FL. If you are ready to begin, please give us a call at (786) 220-1100 to
schedule your consultation. We can walk you through the process, answer your questions, and connect you with a competitive loan.
Client Testimonials
Building lifelong mortgage partnerships is our mission. Explore our clients’ experiences through our Google reviews.







Licensed by the Florida Office of Financial Regulation Mortgage Broker #MBR352, NMLS #383682
Lending Bankers Mortgage LLC is an Equal Housing Lender. As prohibited by federal law, we do not engage in business practices that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, because all or part of your income may be derived from any public assistance program, or because you have, in good faith, exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Disclaimer: Programs subject to change without notice. All borrowers must qualify per program guidelines.
Copyright © 2004-2026 – Lending Bankers Mortgage LLC. All rights Reserved