Homebuyer education
Down Payment Assistance
Learn how to research assistance programs, what questions to ask, and why the written terms matter—without assuming a particular program will fit your purchase.
What down payment assistance generally means
Down payment assistance (DPA) is support that may help an eligible buyer address some upfront costs of a home purchase. Programs differ: the amount, structure, funding, participating lenders, and conditions are not interchangeable. Do not assume assistance is a grant or that it is available for every purchase.
Ask whether the specific assistance is a grant, a repayable loan, a deferred-payment loan, or another structure—and what events may require repayment.
How to research a program
Start with the official source
Review Utah Housing Corporation’s current program information and any linked program notices. Confirm the page applies to your intended home and purchase timeline.
Confirm directly with a participating lender
Ask the lender to identify the program and explain current availability, application steps, eligibility review, and how assistance interacts with the mortgage and closing costs.
Questions worth asking
- Is the program accepting applications and funds for my planned purchase?
- What are the current eligibility and property requirements?
- Is the assistance repayable? When, how, and under what conditions?
- What costs can it cover, and how does it affect the first mortgage?
- Which lender, education, or timing steps must be completed before an offer or closing?
- What written disclosure explains the assistance and obligations?
Compare the complete costs and obligations—not just the amount of assistance—and get program-specific answers in writing.
A lender or housing counselor can explain current program requirements and help you understand the documents before you decide.
Sources
- Utah Housing Corporation — Down Payment Assistance
- Utah Housing Corporation — First-time Homebuyers Assistance Program (New Construction)
- CFPB — Determine your down payment
- HUD — Buying a Home
Educational information only. Program availability and terms can change; confirm current details with the official source and the appropriate housing professional or lender.