State Buyer Guide

First-Time Home Buyer Guide
for Utah

Down payment assistance, Utah housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.

Step 1 — Do This First

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$515,000

Avg Home Price

0.55%

Property Tax Rate

~$10,815

Est. Closing Costs

None

Transfer Tax

Utah Housing Finance Agency Programs

The Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Utah. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.

UHC FirstHome Loan

Below-market rates plus access to Utah Housing DPA second mortgage

Below-market 30-year fixed-rate mortgages for qualifying first-time buyers.

Income limit: $151,000 (varies by county and household size)

Learn more at Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) →

Utah Housing Down Payment Assistance

Up to 4% of loan amount as a 30-year second at a low fixed rate

Second mortgage covering down payment and closing costs.

Income limit: $151,000

Learn more at Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) →

HUD homeownership resources for Utah →

High Value — $240/funded loan

Credible

Personalized mortgage rates in 3 minutes

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See real rates from multiple lenders with one soft credit pull. Credible pays up to $240 per funded loan — which means they have every reason to find you the best rate.

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Closing Costs in Utah

Typical Closing Cost Range

2.1% of purchase price

On a $515,000 home: approximately $10,815

Transfer Tax

None

Utah has no real estate transfer tax, keeping closing costs lower for buyers.

Attorney at Closing?

No — title company state

Utah is a title-company state. An attorney is not required at closing, though many FSBO buyers hire one to review the real estate purchase contract.

Key Tips for Buying in Utah

✓Utah's Wasatch Front market has pulled back from 2022 peaks — better opportunities for first-time buyers now.
✓Air quality and inversion issues are significant in Salt Lake and Utah County valleys — factor into neighborhood choice.
✓Earthquake risk is real along the Wasatch Fault — standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquakes.
✓Apply for the primary residence tax exemption with your county after closing to reduce your property tax rate.

Home Inspection

HomeAdvisor

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HomeAdvisor instantly matches you with licensed, background-checked home inspectors in your area. Read real reviews, compare quotes, and book online.

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Legal Help for Utah Buyers

While Utah doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.

Legal Help for FSBO Buyers

Nolo

Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.

Browse Legal Guides →

LegalZoom

Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.

Get Legal Help →

US Legal Forms

Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.

Browse Real Estate Forms →

Frequently Asked Questions

What first-time buyer programs are available in Utah?

Utah first-time buyers can access programs through the Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) (https://utahhousingcorp.org/), including the UHC FirstHome Loan (Below-market rates plus access to Utah Housing DPA second mortgage) and the Utah Housing Down Payment Assistance (Up to 4% of loan amount as a 30-year second at a low fixed rate). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.

What are typical closing costs in Utah?

Closing costs in Utah typically run 2.1% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: None. Utah has no real estate transfer tax, keeping closing costs lower for buyers.

Do I need an attorney to buy a home in Utah?