Down payment assistance (DPA) is the most underused tool in Utah for first-time buyers. If you can swing a monthly mortgage payment but don't have $20,000 sitting around for a down payment, DPA is probably your move. Here's the real breakdown.
What Utah down payment assistance actually is
DPA in Utah is usually structured as a second mortgage layered behind your main loan. You borrow the down payment (and sometimes closing costs) from Utah Housing Corp, and pay it back as a small additional monthly payment, or as a lump sum when you sell or refinance. The benefit: you get into the house without writing a five-figure check upfront.
Utah Housing FirstHome program
The most common DPA option. Covers the full down payment plus closing costs on FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Income limits vary by county and household size but reach well into six figures. Credit score minimum is typically 660. You must be a first-time buyer (no homeownership in the last 3 years).
Utah Housing HomeAgain program
Same structure as FirstHome but available to repeat buyers. Slightly higher income limits and looser eligibility. Great for move-up buyers who put their previous equity into a different bucket.
Utah Housing Score program
For buyers with stronger credit (680+). Higher loan limits, better pricing. If you qualify, this is usually the program you want.
How to actually apply
You don't apply for DPA directly with Utah Housing. You apply through an approved lender (like me). I run your numbers, check your eligibility, layer the DPA into your loan structure, and submit everything together. The whole thing closes on the same day as your main loan.