First-Time Homebuyer Loans

Buying your first home is a significant financial milestone. We provide the professional guidance and loan options necessary to help you work through the process with clarity and confidence, from your initial pre-approval to the day you receive your keys.

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With a Bank of Utah Home Loan, You Can:

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Start with Strategy

We explain each phase of the process clearly, so you’re prepared for every milestone from first conversation to closing.

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Professional Advocacy

Our loan officers prioritize your long-term financial health, offering personalized advice to help you make informed decisions.

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Tailored Loan Options

We review your budget and goals to match you with the loan program — such as FHA, VA, USDA or conventional — that fits best.

FHA = Federal Housing Administration • VA = Veterans Affairs • USDA = Department of Agriculture

The Mortgage Process at a Glance

Understanding the sequence of a home loan helps you feel prepared for each stage.

Step-by-step mortgage process from pre-approval to closing

Which Loan Program Is Right for You?

Every homebuyer’s financial picture is unique. Here’s how we commonly match buyers with the right loan program.

Starting with smaller savings?

A Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan offers flexible credit requirements and down payments as low as 3.5 percent, making it a strong starting option for first-time buyers.

Have established credit?

A conventional loan offers long-term flexibility. It’s a strong fit if you have solid credit and want the option to cancel private mortgage insurance once you reach 20 percent equity.

Served in the military?

A Veterans Affairs (VA) loan recognizes your service with meaningful benefits, including potential options like zero down and no monthly mortgage insurance.

Buying in a qualifying area?

A U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan can be a strong zero-down option in designated rural or developing areas. Many Utah communities qualify based on location and income.

Explore Homebuyer Assistance Options

Utah Housing Corporation and other partners offer homebuyer assistance programs that can help with upfront costs such as down payment or closing expenses. In some cases, assistance may be available for up to $20,000, depending on the program and eligibility.

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Programs are administered by Utah Housing Corporation and other agencies. Income, purchase price and other limits apply.

Homebuyer assistance illustration

Frequently Asked Questions

The money you pay toward your home up front is called your down payment. While 20 percent is a traditional benchmark, many first-time buyer programs allow down payments as low as 3 to 5 percent. We’ll help you understand what is realistic for your situation and how it affects your monthly payment and cash to close.
Mortgage insurance is protection for the lender that is typically required when your down payment is less than 20 percent. On conventional loans, it is called private mortgage insurance (PMI). On FHA loans, it is called mortgage insurance premium (MIP). We’ll explain when it applies, how it is paid and how it fits into your overall payment.
Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay to finalize your home purchase and loan. They can include appraisal fees, title work, recording fees and other services. They typically range from 2 to 5 percent of the loan amount. We’ll provide estimates early in the process so there are no surprises and talk through options for covering these costs.
A pre-approval is a formal review of your income, assets, debts and credit to estimate the loan amount you may qualify for. It helps you set a realistic price range and shows sellers you are a serious, prepared buyer when you make an offer. We recommend completing pre-approval early, before you start making offers.
We’ll look at your full picture — savings, income, debts, credit history and where you’re buying — then compare how different loan programs affect your payment and cash to close. Together, we’ll decide which option best supports your goals today and over time.

Talk With Us About Your Next Step

Have questions or want to walk through your options? Connect with a loan officer or start your application online when it works for you.

All loans subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply. Specific eligibility requirements exist for down payment assistance, VA and USDA programs.