Buy Utah Homes - Complete Resource
Utah Home Grants & Down Payment Assistance
Every major program for Utah homebuyers - eligibility, amounts, and how to apply. Updated for 2025-2026.
Last Updated: February 2026
Utah homebuyers can access grants and down payment assistance ranging from $2,500 to $70,000 or more, depending on location, income, and personal circumstances. Programs are available through the state, individual counties and cities, nonprofit organizations, and private lenders. Most programs cover down payment and closing costs and do not require monthly repayment. Eligibility is based on income limits, credit score, buyer status, and the location of the property being purchased.
What Is a Home Grant in Utah?
A home grant is money provided to a homebuyer to help cover the upfront costs of purchasing a home - most commonly the down payment, closing costs, or both. Many grants do not need to be repaid at all. Others are structured as forgivable loans that are cleared after you stay in the home for a set number of years. Some are deferred-payment loans that come due only when you sell or refinance, not as a monthly bill.
Utah has one of the strongest ecosystems of homebuyer assistance in the western United States. Funding comes from the state through the Utah Housing Corporation, from county and city governments, from nonprofit organizations, and through private wholesale lender networks that most buyers never find through a traditional bank.
The challenge isn't that programs don't exist. The challenge is knowing which ones you qualify for, which can be combined, and how to get the money applied at closing before funds run out.
How Much Can Utah Buyers Actually Receive?
The realistic range, depending on where you're buying and your situation:
- State programs: $2,500 to $20,000
- County programs: $7,500 to $50,000+
- City programs: $5,000 to $15,000
- Specialty grants (disabilities, law enforcement, veterans): Up to $70,000
- National & private lender programs: Up to $26,000 (3.5% of purchase price)
- Stacked combinations: Some buyers eliminate out-of-pocket costs entirely
The buyers who receive the most aren't necessarily those who qualify for the biggest single program - they're the ones who work with someone who knows how to layer programs together legally and effectively.
Program Quick-Reference Table
| Program | Amount | Repayment | First-Time Required | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Dream Grant | $10,000 | No | Yes | Quarterly drawing, 640+ credit, income ≤ $141,400 |
| Utah Housing DPA | Up to 6% of purchase | At sale/refi | Varies by loan type | Income under ~$125,000 |
| HomeChoice | Up to $70,000 | 1% loan, 30 yr | No | Disability in household, 640+ credit |
| National Grant Program | 2-3.5% (up to ~$26,000) | No (forgivable) | No | FHA financing, 600+ credit |
| National Homebuyer's Fund | 3.5% (up to ~$22,500) | No (10-yr forgivable) | No | FHA, 600+ credit |
| SN Home Grant | Up to $25,000 | Forgivable after 36 mo | No | No income limit, 580+ credit |
| Home Start Program | Up to $5,000 | No (grant) | No | Income limits, primary residence |
| Law Enforcement Grant | Up to 3.5% / $25,000 | Forgivable over 5 yrs | Yes | Active LEO or correctional officer |
| Chenoa Fund | Up to 3.5% of purchase | Varies | No | FHA financing |
| Davis County | Up to $50,000 | At sale/refi | No | Income qualified; funds open July 2026 |
| West Jordan | Up to $7,500 | Forgiven after 5 yrs | Yes | Income limits |
| West Valley City | $5,000 | No (grant) | Yes | Income limits |
| USDA Rural Housing | 100% financing | N/A | No | Rural areas only - not SL, Davis, Weber counties |
Program details are subject to change. Contact Buy Utah Homes for current availability and income limits.
Not Sure Which Programs You Qualify For?
Take the free quiz or contact us directly - we'll map every program available for your situation at no cost.
The Programs in Detail
1. American Dream Grant
$10,000 - No RepaymentThe American Dream Grant provides $10,000 toward down payment or closing costs for eligible Utah first-time homebuyers. It is administered by the Salt Lake Board of Realtors through SLBR Charities, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. There is no repayment required and no lien placed on the home.
How It Works
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Winners are selected by random drawing each quarter. If selected, you have 90 days to find and close on a home. The $10,000 is sent directly to your title company at closing.
Full Eligibility Requirements
- No home ownership in the past 3 years
- Credit score of 640 or higher
- Household income at or below $141,400
- Pre-qualified with a mortgage lender
- Must work with a Realtor who is a primary member of the Salt Lake Board of Realtors
- Owner-occupied primary residence; traditional, modular, or manufactured homes qualify (mobile homes excluded)
- Must close within 90 days of being selected
Program administered by the Salt Lake Board of Realtors through SLBR Charities. Additional details at slrealtors.com/american-dream-grant-program.
2. Utah Housing Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
Up to 6% of Purchase PriceThe Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) is Utah's official state housing finance agency. Their Down Payment Assistance program allows buyers to borrow up to 6% of the home's purchase price as a second mortgage to cover down payment and closing costs. On a $400,000 home, that is up to $24,000 in assistance.
The Four Loan Programs Within Utah Housing
- FirstHome Loan - For first-time buyers with a 660+ credit score. FHA, VA, or conventional options.
- Home Again Loan - For repeat buyers, or first-time buyers who don't qualify for FirstHome. Same credit requirements, flexible income guidelines.
- Score Loan - Designed for buyers with lower credit scores and modest income. Flexible FHA-based underwriting.
- HFA Advantage (Conventional) - For buyers who prefer a conventional loan, typically 700+ credit. Best option for condos and townhomes where FHA has restrictions.
Key Details
- Household income generally under $125,000 annually (limits vary by county and family size)
- Available statewide - not limited to specific cities or counties
- DPA second mortgage repaid when you sell or refinance
- Homebuyer education required for some loan types
- Compatible with most other grant programs - often the foundation of a stacking strategy
3. HomeChoice - For Buyers with Disabilities
Up to $70,000 at 1% InterestHomeChoice is one of the most powerful and least-known programs in Utah. It provides up to $70,000 per household to help buyers with disabilities - or households that include a family member with a disability - become homeowners. Funds are provided through the Olene Walker Housing Fund, administered by the Neighborhood Housing Corporation.
What HomeChoice Does
HomeChoice reduces or eliminates the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI) and lowers your monthly payment by providing a low-interest second mortgage at just 1% interest, amortized over 30 years. The funds are used to reduce your loan principal - not for down payment or closing costs directly - which makes each monthly payment smaller and eliminates or reduces PMI.
Eligibility
- The buyer or a household member must have a qualifying disability under the ADA or Fair Housing Amendment Act
- Minimum FICO credit score of 640
- Must meet HUD income guidelines based on household size
- Minimum personal contribution of $500 toward the down payment
- Must qualify for a 30-year FHA or conventional mortgage that permits HomeChoice funds
- Eligible properties: single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums
4. National Grant Program (NGP)
Up to ~$26,000 - ForgivableThe National Grant Program, provided through EPM Wholesale Mortgage, offers a forgivable grant of 2% to 3.5% of the purchase price. In higher-priced Utah counties, that can reach approximately $26,000. This is a true forgivable grant - no repayment required. It is available to any qualified buyer regardless of prior ownership history.
Note: This program is accessed exclusively through approved wholesale lender partners. It is not available at traditional retail banks.
5. National Homebuyer's Fund (NHF)
Up to ~$22,500 - 10-Year ForgivableThe National Homebuyer's Fund provides 3.5% of the purchase price as down payment assistance. Buyers can choose a 10-year forgivable option - no repayment as long as you stay in the home. Maximum assistance in qualifying Utah areas reaches approximately $22,500. Non-occupant co-signers are allowed. Eligible property types include condos, townhomes, single-family homes, and duplexes.
6. SN Home Grant
Up to $25,000The SN Home program, provided by Security National Mortgage Company, offers up to $25,000 in down payment assistance as either a forgivable grant or a second mortgage. What sets it apart: no income limit, no first-time buyer requirement, and manufactured homes are eligible. Down payment help is calculated at 3.5% or 5% of the purchase price. The forgivable grant option clears after 36 months of ownership with no purchase price cap.
7. Home Start Program
Up to $5,000The Home Start Program provides up to $5,000 toward down payment and closing costs on a first-come, first-served basis. Income limits and purchase price caps apply by county. Must occupy as a primary residence. Mobile homes are not eligible. Homebuyer education is required for first-time buyers.
8. Law Enforcement & Correctional Officer Grant
Up to 3.5% / $25,000 - ForgivableAdministered by the Utah Housing Corporation on behalf of the State of Utah, this grant helps law enforcement officers and correctional officers purchase homes in or near the communities where they serve. Assistance of up to 3.5% of the purchase price (maximum $25,000) is forgivable over 5 years of continued service and owner-occupancy. Must use a Utah Housing first mortgage through a participating lender.
9. Chenoa Fund
Up to 3.5% of Purchase PriceThe Chenoa Fund is a national down payment assistance program administered by CBC Mortgage Agency, a tribal entity based in Utah. It provides 3.5% of the purchase price as down payment assistance with both repayable and forgivable options depending on income. Available statewide with no first-time buyer requirement.
10. USDA Rural Housing - 100% Financing
No Down Payment RequiredFor buyers purchasing in eligible rural areas, USDA Rural Housing offers 100% financing - no down payment required. This eliminates the upfront cash barrier entirely. In Utah, USDA does not apply in Salt Lake, Davis, or Weber counties. Qualifying Wasatch Front areas include Tooele County (Stansbury Park, Tooele, Grantsville, Erda) and parts of Utah County (Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Payson, Santaquin). The program is widely available across Cache County, Washington County, and rural Utah statewide.
County & City Programs - Localized Assistance Most Buyers Miss
Beyond statewide programs, Utah's counties and cities fund their own assistance programs. These are often the most generous on a per-dollar basis - but they are location-specific, fund-limited, and frequently unknown to buyers working with lenders who don't track them.
Active Programs (Verify Current Availability)
Davis County - Up to $50,000
A 0% interest deferred loan with no monthly payments, repaid only at sale or refinance. No first-time buyer requirement - open to any income-qualified buyer. The 2025 funds are exhausted; applications reopen July 1, 2026. When stacked with Utah Housing DPA, Davis County buyers can access up to $70,000 in combined assistance. See the Davis County Homeownership Assistance program for official details.
West Jordan - Up to $7,500
Deferred loan forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy. Available to income-qualified first-time buyers purchasing within West Jordan city limits. Contact the City of West Jordan for current program details.
West Valley City - $5,000
Grant for eligible low-to-moderate income first-time buyers. Funds administered through the city's housing program.
Salt Lake City
Down payment assistance funded through the city's "Funding Our Future" initiative. Structured as deferred or zero-interest loans with possible forgiveness after a set term. Must purchase within Salt Lake City boundaries and meet income and purchase price caps.
Murray
Down payment assistance administered in partnership with NeighborWorks Salt Lake. First-come, first-served. Income eligibility required. Homebuyer education course required.
Ogden - $10,000 to $15,000
$10,000 for qualifying first-time buyers; $15,000 for state-certified K-12 teachers or administrators at schools serving Ogden students. 0% interest, deferred payment loan.
Layton City - $10,000
Grant increments for income-eligible first-time buyers. Funding rounds open periodically on a first-come, first-served basis. Verify current availability before applying.
Can You Stack Multiple Programs?
Yes - and this is where having the right guide makes the biggest difference. Many programs can be legally combined to dramatically reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
Example: Davis County Buyer - What Stacking Can Look Like
Not every combination is permitted. Some programs conflict with others. Stacking requires knowing the rules of each program and how they interact - which is exactly why the lender and specialist you work with matters as much as the programs themselves.
What About Repeat Buyers?
You do not need to be a first-time buyer for every program. Several programs on this page have no first-time buyer requirement:
- Utah Housing Home Again Loan
- National Grant Program
- National Homebuyer's Fund
- SN Home Grant
- Home Start Program
- Davis County Assistance
- Chenoa Fund
- USDA Rural Housing
If you've owned before, the question isn't whether programs exist for you - it's which ones you currently qualify for based on income, location, and credit.
What Credit Score Do You Need?
Minimum credit scores vary by program. Here's a quick breakdown of what each threshold unlocks:
If your score is below 620, options still exist - and a short-term credit improvement plan may open significantly more programs within 60 to 90 days. Ask us about what's within reach for your current score.
How to Apply for Utah Home Grants
Most buyers assume their lender will find every available program. In practice, most lenders only offer what's inside their own loan products. They don't track county and city programs in real time, and they don't have access to exclusive wholesale lender grants. Applying for Utah home grants is not a single form - it is a coordinated process across multiple programs, lenders, and agencies. Here is how it works when you work with Buy Utah Homes.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Eligibility Review - We review your income, household size, location, credit, and savings to map every program you realistically qualify for.
- Program Strategy - We identify which programs can be combined, which have funds available right now, and which offer the best outcome for your specific situation.
- Lender Connection - We connect you with lenders in our network who have access to programs most buyers never find, including wholesale and private programs unavailable at traditional banks.
- Application & Coordination - We guide you through the application process, coordinate between programs, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks between now and closing day.
- Closing - Grant and assistance funds are applied at closing, directly on your Closing Disclosure.
Find Out What You Qualify For - No Cost, No Obligation
The biggest reason buyers miss these programs is simple: they didn't know to ask, or they asked someone who didn't know where to look. Both options below take less than five minutes.
How to Apply for Each Utah Home Grant Program
Each program has a different application path. Here is where and how to apply for the most common Utah home grant programs:
American Dream Grant
Applications are submitted directly through the Salt Lake Board of Realtors. You must be working with a member Realtor and be pre-qualified with a lender before applying. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; winners are selected quarterly.
Utah Housing Down Payment Assistance
Applied for through a Utah Housing Corporation participating lender - not directly by the buyer. Your lender submits the DPA request as part of your mortgage application. Ask your lender specifically for a Utah Housing first mortgage with DPA.
HomeChoice Program
Applications go through the Neighborhood Housing Corporation of Utah. You must have a disability or a household member with a qualifying disability, and must be under contract on a home or actively searching. A lender who works with HomeChoice funds must be involved from the start.
National Grant Program, NHF, SN Home, Chenoa Fund
These programs are lender-accessed - the buyer does not apply directly. You must work with a lender who has an active relationship with these wholesale programs. Most retail banks do not offer them. Contact Buy Utah Homes to connect with lenders in our network who have access to these programs.
County & City Programs (Davis County, West Jordan, etc.)
Applications are submitted directly to the county or city housing office. Davis County applications reopen July 1, 2026 through the Davis County Community and Economic Development office. West Jordan and West Valley City programs are administered through their respective city housing departments. Funds are first-come, first-served once rounds open.
Frequently Asked Questions
What home grants are available in Utah in 2025 and 2026?
Utah buyers can access grants and assistance through the American Dream Grant ($10,000), Utah Housing Down Payment Assistance (up to 6% of purchase price), HomeChoice (up to $70,000 for households with disabilities), the National Grant Program (up to $26,000), the National Homebuyer's Fund, SN Home Grant, Home Start Program, Law Enforcement Grant, and Chenoa Fund. County and city programs in Davis County, Salt Lake County, West Jordan, Ogden, and others add additional options. Many of these can be combined.
Do I have to pay back a home grant in Utah?
Most grants do not require repayment as long as you follow program guidelines - typically by staying in the home as your primary residence for a specified period. Some are structured as forgivable loans cleared after a set number of years. Programs that do require repayment collect at sale or refinance, not as a monthly payment.
What is the American Dream Grant in Utah?
The American Dream Grant is a $10,000 grant for eligible first-time Utah homebuyers, administered by the Salt Lake Board of Realtors through its nonprofit SLBR Charities. Winners are selected by quarterly random drawing. There is no repayment and no lien placed on the property. Eligibility requires a 640+ credit score, household income at or below $141,400, and working with a member Realtor.
What is the HomeChoice program in Utah?
HomeChoice is a down payment assistance loan of up to $70,000 for Utah buyers who have a disability or a household member with a disability. Funds are provided at 1% interest over 30 years and are used to reduce the loan principal, lower monthly payments, and eliminate or reduce PMI. A minimum credit score of 640 and a $500 personal contribution are required.
Can I get a home grant in Utah if I've owned a home before?
Yes. Several programs including Utah Housing's Home Again Loan, the National Grant Program, SN Home Grant, National Homebuyer's Fund, Davis County Assistance, Home Start, and Chenoa Fund have no first-time buyer requirement. Eligibility is based on income, credit, and location rather than prior ownership history.
Can I combine multiple Utah home grants?
Yes, in many cases multiple programs can be stacked. The rules vary by program and not all combinations are permitted. A buyer in Davis County, for example, might combine Utah Housing DPA, the American Dream Grant, Davis County assistance, and additional wholesale lender programs. Working with a specialist who understands how programs interact is key to maximizing what you receive.
What credit score do I need for Utah home grants?
Minimum credit scores range from 580 to 700 depending on the program. A 620 score opens the majority of available options. The American Dream Grant and HomeChoice require 640. Some programs accept as low as 580.
Are there home grants for rural Utah?
Yes. USDA Rural Housing provides 100% financing with no down payment in eligible rural areas, including parts of Tooele County, Utah County, Cache County, Washington County, and other areas outside the main Wasatch Front metros. USDA does not apply in Salt Lake, Davis, or Weber counties.
Are there home grants for law enforcement in Utah?
Yes. The Utah Law Enforcement Grant provides up to 3.5% of the purchase price (maximum $25,000) as a forgivable grant for first-time homebuying law enforcement officers and correctional officers, administered through the Utah Housing Corporation.
How do I apply for Utah home grants?
Grants are applied for through a lender or specialist - not directly by the buyer in most cases. The fastest first step is a free eligibility review to confirm which programs you qualify for before you start shopping. Take the quiz or contact Buy Utah Homes to get started at no cost.