The December 2011 Realtors Confidence Index survey reports that cash down payments are at or above 20 percent of the home sales price in 34 percent of the transactions. This level of high down payments appears to be relatively high and appears to reflect the effects of overly tight credit markets.
It is a myth that cash reigns supreme in the housing market. There are many ways that buyers can out-duel cash buyers, if they know how to play the game. Check out this article for some tips: http://www.homeforsure.com/buyers-winter-market
Fantastic…the more a person can put down, the more secure they can ultimately feel in their mortgage and equity position. But beware how those down payments are gotten. Check out this article on borrowing booby traps: http://www.homeforsure.com/beware-borrowing-boobie-traps
Some info on the average cash down payment amount during other periods would have offered better perspective/ comparison. For example, what was the average down payment during the housing boom?
Most of these buyers are investors with cash, I see more homeowners going for rent to own or lease with option, and owner finance with low down payments.