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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Utah 2026

By Cory Salisbury

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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Utah 2026
## Your Guide to First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Utah Buying your first home is one of life's biggest milestones -- and one of its biggest financial hurdles. The good news: Utah has some of the best first-time buyer programs in the country. Let's break them down. ### 1. Utah S.B. 240 -- First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Signed into law in 2023, Senate Bill 240 created a tax-advantaged savings account specifically for first-time homebuyers. **Key Details:** - Contribute up to **$25,000** (individual) or **$50,000** (married filing jointly). - Contributions are **deductible from Utah state income tax**. - Earnings grow **tax-free** when used for eligible home-purchase expenses. - Funds can be used for down payment, closing costs, or both. **How to Open One:** 1. Open a dedicated savings or investment account at a qualifying Utah financial institution. 2. Designate it as a "First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account" on your state tax return. 3. Make contributions throughout the year. 4. Withdraw funds when you're ready to purchase your first primary residence in Utah. ### 2. UHC Down Payment Assistance (DPA) The Utah Housing Corporation offers several DPA programs that pair with their first mortgages: **Score Program:** - Up to **6% of the first mortgage** as a silent second lien. - 30-year repayment term at 2% above the first mortgage rate. - Available for FHA, VA, and USDA loans. **NoMI Program:** - Conventional loan with **no monthly mortgage insurance**. - Slightly higher rate offsets the MI savings. - Requires 3% down (can come from DPA or gift funds). **Income Limits:** - Vary by county. For Utah County: $120,000 household income. - For Salt Lake County: $125,000 household income. - Check [utahhousingcorp.org](https://utahhousingcorp.org) for current limits. ### 3. Utah Veterans Home Purchase Grant If you served in the U.S. military, thank you -- and Utah has an extra incentive for you. - Grant of up to **$2,500** toward a home purchase. - Must be a Utah resident and honorably discharged veteran. - Can be combined with VA loan benefits and UHC programs. - Apply through the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs. ### 4. Law Enforcement Home Grant Utah's Law Enforcement Home Grant assists active duty officers: - Up to **$7,500** for down payment or closing costs. - Must be a full-time, sworn law enforcement officer in Utah. - Must be purchasing a primary residence. - Limited funding available -- apply early each fiscal year. ### 5. FHA Loans While not Utah-specific, FHA loans remain the most popular choice for first-time buyers: - **3.5% down** with a 580+ credit score. - **Seller can contribute** up to 6% of the purchase price toward your closing costs. - Easier qualification standards than conventional loans. - Can be paired with UHC DPA programs. ### Steps to Get Started 1. **Check your credit score** -- Free at annualcreditreport.com. 2. **Get pre-approved** -- Talk to a lender who specializes in Utah first-time buyer programs. 3. **Open an S.B. 240 account** -- Start saving tax-free today, even if you're months away from buying. 4. **Connect with a local agent** -- An experienced Realtor can guide you through incentives and negotiate builder concessions. 5. **Tour homes** -- Know your budget, neighborhoods, and must-haves before you start. --- *Ready to explore your options? [Book a free buyer consultation](/contact) and we'll walk you through every program you qualify for.*
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About Cory Salisbury

Licensed Utah Realtor helping Utah families buy and sell homes across the Wasatch Front since 2014. Cory specializes in data-driven strategies, buyer negotiation, and new construction.

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