✦ Complete 2026 Guide
Your Complete Guide to Utah
First Time Home Buyer Programs
Utah's first-time buyer programs are built to stack. UHC provides up to 6% DPA on the mortgage side, county grants add $10K–$40K on top of that, and the SB240 new construction program adds another $20K for newly built homes. Qualified buyers can access over $30,000 in combined assistance — sometimes significantly more.
What's Covered in This Guide
Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) Programs
Utah Housing Corporation funds the mortgage side — below-market rates paired with up to 6% DPA, available through approved lenders statewide.
FirstHome Loan
- ✓Up to 6% down payment assistance
- ✓30-year fixed rate
- ✓Income limits apply
- ✓Must be first-time buyer
The FirstHome loan is designed specifically for first-time homebuyers who meet income and purchase price limits. It offers competitive interest rates and can be combined with down payment assistance.
HomeAgain Loan
- ✓For repeat buyers or those over income limits
- ✓Competitive rates
- ✓Flexible qualifying
- ✓Up to 6% DPA available
HomeAgain serves buyers who don't qualify for FirstHome, including repeat buyers and those with higher incomes. Still offers excellent rates and down payment assistance options.
Score Loan
- ✓Lower credit score friendly (620+)
- ✓Higher interest rate offset by DPA
- ✓Great for credit-challenged buyers
- ✓Full 6% DPA available
The Score loan helps buyers with lower credit scores achieve homeownership. While rates are slightly higher, the generous down payment assistance often makes this an excellent option.
NoMI Loan
- ✓No mortgage insurance required
- ✓20% down payment
- ✓Best for buyers with savings
- ✓Lowest monthly payment
For buyers who can put 20% down, the NoMI loan eliminates mortgage insurance entirely, resulting in significantly lower monthly payments.
Down Payment Assistance Programs
Multiple programs exist to help cover your down payment and closing costs.
UHC Down Payment Assistance
- ✓Up to 6% of loan amount
- ✓Second mortgage at 0% interest
- ✓Deferred payment option
- ✓Forgivable after 7 years
Utah Housing Corporation offers DPA as a second mortgage. Options include deferred payment (due when you sell/refinance) or a slightly higher rate with forgiveness provisions.
County-Specific Grants
- ✓$10,000–$20,000 available
- ✓Often forgivable
- ✓Income-based eligibility
- ✓Can stack with UHC loans
Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, and other counties offer their own down payment assistance grants. These can often be combined with state programs for maximum benefit.
SB240 New Construction Grant
- ✓Up to $20,000 grant
- ✓New construction only
- ✓Income limits apply
- ✓Available statewide
The SB240 program provides grants up to $20,000 for buyers purchasing newly constructed homes. This is one of the most generous programs available.
Federal Loan Programs
FHA, VA, and USDA loans are all compatible with Utah's DPA programs — and each has distinct credit and down payment requirements.
FHA Loans
- ✓3.5% down payment minimum
- ✓580+ credit score
- ✓Flexible debt-to-income ratios
- ✓Gift funds allowed
FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and offer some of the most flexible qualifying requirements available. Ideal for buyers with limited savings or imperfect credit.
VA Loans
- ✓0% down payment
- ✓No mortgage insurance
- ✓Competitive rates
- ✓Veterans & active military
VA loans offer the best terms available for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. Zero down payment and no PMI make this an unbeatable option.
USDA Loans
- ✓0% down payment
- ✓Rural areas only
- ✓Income limits apply
- ✓Low mortgage insurance
USDA loans serve buyers in designated rural areas with no down payment required. Many Utah communities outside the Wasatch Front qualify.
Conventional 97
- ✓3% down payment
- ✓620+ credit score
- ✓PMI required
- ✓No income limits
Conventional 97 loans allow just 3% down for qualified buyers. While PMI is required, there are no income limits unlike many assistance programs.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Follow these steps to determine which programs you qualify for and maximize your benefits.
Check Your Credit Score
Your credit score determines which programs you qualify for. Most programs require a minimum of 580–660, but higher scores unlock better rates and terms.
- ◆Get free credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com
- ◆Dispute any errors you find
- ◆Pay down credit card balances below 30%
- ◆Don't open new accounts before applying
Calculate Your Income
Most first-time buyer programs have income limits. You'll need to calculate your household's gross annual income including all earners who will be on the loan.
- ◆Include all W-2 income, bonuses, and overtime
- ◆Self-employment income uses 2-year average
- ◆Child support and alimony count if documented
- ◆Check both individual and household limits
Determine Your Budget
Understanding what you can afford helps identify the right programs. Consider not just the purchase price but also your monthly payment comfort zone.
- ◆Use our mortgage calculator for estimates
- ◆Include property taxes and insurance
- ◆Factor in HOA fees if applicable
- ◆Leave room for maintenance costs
Get Pre-Approved
Pre-approval gives you a clear picture of your options and makes you a stronger buyer. A lender will verify your information and provide a commitment letter.
- ◆Gather pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements
- ◆Pre-approval typically lasts 60–90 days
- ◆Rate lock available after finding a home
- ◆Multiple inquiries within 45 days count as one
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Ready to Find Your Perfect Program?
Most buyers come in knowing about one program — UHC or maybe a county grant. A lot leave having qualified for both, plus SB240 on top. Takes 15 minutes to find out what your specific situation unlocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Utah first-time home buyer programs