Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you. I am a REALTOR® licensed in the state of Utah, License No. 11785411-SA00 and affiliated with Presidio Real Estate (South Jordan).
Seven Steps To Buying A Home in Utah
7 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Salt Lake City (SLC)
A Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing A Home in Salt Lake City, Utah
Step 1: Understand The Local Utah Real Estate Market
Salt Lake City’s real estate scene is dynamic, especially lately, where some homes seem to linger on the market while others go under contract quickly with multiple bids competing against each other. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy bungalow in Sugar House or a modern condo downtown, it’s essential to know whether a home is priced appropriately for the current market. As your trusted Realtor®, I keep you updated on every home we view with a comparative market analysis. As we search, I will search for homes, not only on the local MLS, but within our office network and homes that are for sale by owner to keep your search sharp and competitive.
Step 2: Get Your Finances in Order
Before you fall in love with a home, it’s time to organize your financial house:
1. Review credit score and debts
2. Determine a realistic down payment (~3–20%)
3. Calculate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio
4. Factor in additional costs like closing fees, repairs, moving, furniture, and property taxes
One of my favorite tools is our Home Buyers Checklist—a detailed PDF guide that walks you through every financial step so you’re fully prepared.
Get Your Home Buyer's Checklist
Step 3: Use a Mortgage Calculator to Preview Rates
Our Salt Lake City mortgage calculator helps you estimate payments based on home price, down payment, loan term, and interest rate. While this isn’t the full picture, it excludes PMI, taxes, and insurance, it gives a helpful snapshot:
Test different price points and scenarios
Compare 15- vs. 30-year mortgages
See the impact of a larger down payment on monthly payments
It’s a free and easy way to start narrowing your search and plan realistically.
Read more about how to use a mortgage calculator.
Step 4: Seek Pre-Qualification & Pre-Approval
When you’re ready, I recommend two distinct steps:
Pre‑Qualification
A quick step where you give approximate income and debt details to get a rough estimate of your eligibility.
Pre‑Approval
A serious step involving verified documents (W2s, bank statements, etc.), credit checks, and a fully documented loan amount. Being pre-approved not only helps you understand your budget, but it also shows sellers you’re a committed, serious buyer. In competitive markets like SLC, a pre-approval letter can be a game-changer.
Ask me for my list of trusted, top-performing Utah lenders—I’ve curated professionals who consistently help clients secure strong loan terms. Email me at [email protected].
Step 5: Start Your Home Search
Now comes the fun part—shopping for homes!
Tips for a better search process:
Work with me to define must-haves and nice-to-haves during a buyer’s consultation
I’ll create an alert system through my website that will update me each time a home that fits your criteria is posted on the MLS
Attend open houses with me and schedule private showings to tour and compare homes. Keep notes!
Ask questions about neighborhood amenities, school zoning, HOA, and more.
I’ll personally share new listings with you as often as you’d like. Some people like one email each day, whereas others want to know the minute a new listing hits the market. Whatever your style is, I can accommodate, ensuring we stay ahead.
When you contact me, ask for a curated list of useful websites and online tools that home buyers in Utah can use to research schools, crime rates, commute times, and more when deciding where to purchase a home. Email [email protected] with “Home Buyer Resources” in the subject line.
Step 6: Make a Competitive Offer
Once you find “the one,” we’ll craft a strategic offer package that includes:
Purchase price based on recent comps and market data
Earnest money deposit to show good faith
Financing details from your lender
Contingencies (inspection, appraisal, financing)
Possession date & seller needs
In today’s market, where multiple offers are common, a thoughtful offer can make all the difference.
Step 7: Closing and Beyond
If your offer is accepted, we move into the closing phase:
Home inspection and potential renegotiation
Appraisal and lender final approval
Title work and insurance preparation
Final walkthrough to verify condition
Closing day: Sign documents, transfer funds, and collect keys!
And… welcome home! After closing, I provide resources to help you settle in, from utility setup tips to neighborhood must-see spots.
Q&A: Top Questions First-Time Buyers Ask in Salt Lake City
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Utah?
Most lenders prefer a credit score of 620 or higher for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580, but your rate may be higher.
How much do I need for a down payment in Utah?
Conventional loans often require 5–20%, but there are low down payment options (as low as 3%) and Utah-specific assistance programs for first-time buyers.
What are Utah’s first-time homebuyer assistance programs?
Programs like the Utah Housing Corporation’s FirstHome, HomeAgain, and HomeChoice Plus offer down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible buyers. Many are geared toward lower and moderate incomes.
Should I lock my interest rate? When?
Rate locks are typically done post-offer, after appraisal. Lenders often offer 30–60 day locks; discuss with your lender for best options in SLC’s changing rate environment.
Can I buy a home with student loans?
Yes—lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), which should ideally be below 43%, though exceptions exist.
Should I get pre-approved before I find a house?
Absolutely. Pre-approval helps you shop confidently and makes your offer stand out when you find the right property.
How long does closing take in Utah?
Typically 30–45 days from accepted offer to settlement. Timelines may vary depending on lender, loan type, and property type.
What are the total costs of buying a house?
Expect 2–5% of purchase price for closing costs, plus moving expenses, utility startup, HOA fees, and potential repairs/improvements. If the seller is not offering a buyer’s agent fee, you may need to pay your agent a commission which will be a pre-negotiated percentage of the cost of the home.
Why Work with a Local Agent Like Me?
- I’ve grown up in Sandy, UT, and know every corner of the SLC area
I bring 5 years of real estate expertise, crafting compelling offers and sharp negotiation strategies
I’m with Presidio Real Estate (South Jordan), affiliated with the Salt Lake Board of Realtors, and hold the MRP designation, preparing me to serve military and family buyers
I provide vetted local lender referrals to help you secure strong financing terms
Ready for Your Home Buying Journey?
Download your free Home Buyers Checklist by subscribing below. It’s packed with step-by-step guidance
Use our interactive mortgage calculator to preview monthly payments
Email me at [email protected] for lender referrals or to schedule your personalized buyer consultation
- Browse current homes for sale here: www.chateaurealtyutah.com.
The Bottom Line
Buying your first home in Salt Lake City is exciting, and with the right preparation, it’s absolutely achievable. By following these 7 essential steps, paired with expert support, you’ll be in the winning position when it’s time to make an offer. I’m here to guide you through every part of the process.
👉 Start today by grabbing your checklist below and trying the calculator, and let’s find your first Utah home together!
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