Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) Loan Programs: Your Complete 2026 Guide
Utah Housing Corporation runs three active loan programs: FirstHome, FHA/VA Mortgage, and Freddie Mac HFA Advantage. Each targets a different buyer profile. The common thread: below-market rates and up to 6% down payment assistance (capped at $27,500) on the UHC first mortgage. Note: HomeAgain, NoMI and Scoreare currently marked "Temporarily Suspended" on UHC's site, see the suspension card below for active alternatives. This page breaks down which active program fits your situation.
Compare UHC Loan Programs
FirstHome
For First-Time Buyers
Ideal for: First-time buyers (no ownership in past 3 years) who meet county income + price limits
The flagship program for first-time homebuyers in Utah. FirstHome offers the most competitive interest rates combined with up to 6% down payment assistance (capped at $27,500). Designed for Utahns who haven't owned a home in the past three years and meet county-specific income and purchase price limits.
Key Features
- ✓Lowest UHC interest rate of all programs
- ✓Up to 6% Traditional DPA, capped at $27,500
- ✓Or up to 3.5% Deferred DPA (no monthly payment)
- ✓30-year fixed-rate mortgage
- ✓Works with FHA, VA, and Freddie Mac conventional
Requirements
- •First-time buyer (no ownership in past 3 years; single-parent and Veteran exceptions)
- •Meet income limits for your county and household size
- •Purchase within county price limits
- •Minimum 660 FICO credit score
- •Complete HUD-approved homebuyer education course (when all occupants are first-time buyers)
- •Owner-occupied primary residence only
Income Limits (Approximate)
*Income limits vary by county and are updated periodically. Contact us for current limits.
Down Payment Assistance Options
UHC offers two ways to structure your down payment assistance. Choose the option that best fits your plans.
Traditional DPA Second
A 30-year amortizing second mortgage at an interest rate of 1% above your first mortgage rate (max 8%, never below the first mortgage rate). Up to 6% of the first mortgage amount, capped at $27,500. You make monthly payments on both the first and the second.
Pros
- + Higher DPA cap (6% vs 3.5%)
- + Predictable amortizing schedule
- + Same servicer for both mortgages
Cons
- - Adds a monthly payment
- - Interest rate is 1% above the first mortgage
Deferred DPA Second
A second mortgage with 3.5% deferred simple interest and no monthly payment. Up to 3.5% of the first mortgage amount, capped at $27,500. Outstanding principal plus accrued interest is due at maturity, sale, or refinance.
Pros
- + No monthly payment on the DPA
- + No impact on monthly cash flow
- + Lower DPA balance to repay
Cons
- - Lower DPA cap (3.5% vs 6%)
- - Interest accrues silently and is owed at sale/refi
How to Apply for UHC Programs
Get Pre-Approved
1-3 daysConnect with a UHC-approved lender to review your finances and determine which programs you qualify for.
Complete Homebuyer Education
2-8 hoursTake a HUD-approved homebuyer education course online or in person. Certificate valid for most programs.
Find Your Home
VariesSearch for homes within program price limits. Work with an agent familiar with UHC requirements.
Submit Full Application
2-3 weeksOnce under contract, provide full documentation for underwriting. UHC reviews and issues commitment.
Close on Your Home
1 dayComplete final walkthrough, sign documents, and receive keys to your new home!
Free resource
Get the UHC programs in writing
How UHC assistance works next to the city, county and new construction programs, and the full buying process, in one free PDF.
- The full buying process, start to finish
- What down payment help exists in Utah, and how each one gets repaid
- FHA vs VA vs USDA vs conventional, side by side
- The mistakes that cost first-time buyers the most
We'll email the guide and occasional Utah buying tips. Unsubscribe any time.
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Three active UHC programs: which one is your best fit?
As a REALTOR I don't originate loans, but I work with UHC-approved lenders who can run FirstHome, FHA/VA Mortgage and HFA Advantage through your numbers. A 15-minute call is enough to know which program fits and what your assistance actually comes to.
UHC Program FAQs
Common questions about Utah Housing Corporation programs