There is no single answer, because Ohio buyers use four main loan types and each one sets its own minimum. Conventional loans start around 3% down for qualified buyers, FHA loans start at 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans often allow zero down. That is why the old 20% rule keeps scaring people who really do not need to wait that long.
Ohio also has help that most buyers do not know about. Through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), Your Choice! provides 3% of the purchase price on conventional loans or 3.5% on FHA, VA, and USDA loans as a 0% interest, forgiven grant rather than a second mortgage. Grants for Grads and Ohio Heroes add rate discounts for recent graduates and public servants. Income and purchase-price limits vary by county, and assistance is reserved through approved OHFA lenders.
The real number for you comes from a lender, not a rule of thumb. Get pre-approved before you tour, and you will know your loan amount, your monthly payment, and the exact cash you need at closing. That pre-approval also makes your offer credible to sellers.
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Here to help, Melanie.
Loan programs, rates, and program details change. Verify current terms with a lender before relying on anything here. I serve every buyer and seller equally, in line with the Fair Housing Act.