What does a conventional loan require that may not be necessary for other types of loans?

A conventional loan typically requires a significant down payment, which distinguishes it from many other financing options. This down payment is usually set at a percentage of the home's purchase price and can range from as low as 3% to 20% or more, depending on the lender's terms and the borrower's financial profile.

The rationale behind this requirement involves mitigating the lender's risk. A higher down payment usually indicates the borrower has a vested interest in the property and less chance of defaulting, as they are investing more of their own money upfront. This characteristic also makes conventional loans appealing in situations where the borrower has strong credit and financial stability.

In contrast, government-backed loans like FHA or VA loans often have much lower down payment requirements, aimed at promoting homeownership for individuals who may not have substantial savings. Thus, the significant down payment required for conventional loans is a key aspect that sets them apart in the context of available loan types.