For Buyers
Your step-by-step guide to buying a home in Utah, from getting pre-approved to picking up the keys on closing day.
Step 1
Before you start looking at homes, get pre-approved by a lender. A pre-approval letter tells sellers you are a serious, qualified buyer and gives you a clear picture of your budget. Utah buyers have several loan options: Conventional loans (as low as 3% down), FHA loans (3.5% down with more flexible credit requirements), VA loans (zero down payment for eligible veterans), and USDA loans (zero down for eligible rural areas, which includes many Utah communities). Shop around with local Utah lenders and credit unions to compare rates. You will need pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and identification to apply. Pre-approval typically takes 1-3 business days.
Step 2
Having a dedicated buyer's agent is one of the most important decisions you will make. Your agent represents your interests throughout the entire transaction, from searching for homes to negotiating the best price and terms. In Utah, buyer representation is formalized through a Buyer-Broker Agreement that outlines the agent's duties and compensation. A great buyer's agent will know the local market, identify potential issues with properties, write competitive offers, and guide you through inspections, appraisal, and closing. Judy Beltran has helped buyers across Utah find their dream homes and is available in both English and Spanish.
Step 3
With your pre-approval in hand and your agent by your side, it is time to search. Utah's MLS (Multiple Listing Service) is the most comprehensive source of available homes. Your agent can set up customized searches that match your criteria -- location, price range, bedrooms, lot size, and more -- and send you new listings as soon as they hit the market. You can also use our property search portal to browse listings on your own 24/7. Attend open houses, schedule private showings, and drive through neighborhoods at different times of day. Consider factors like school districts, commute times, proximity to amenities, and future development plans in the area.
Step 4
When you find the right home, your agent will help you write an offer using the Utah Real Estate Purchase Contract (REPC). This is the standard contract used in virtually all residential transactions in the state. The REPC covers the purchase price, earnest money amount, financing terms, closing date, due diligence deadline, and any contingencies. Your agent will perform a comparative market analysis (CMA) to help you determine a competitive offer price based on recent sales of similar homes in the area. In a competitive market, your agent may also suggest strategies like escalation clauses, flexible closing dates, or larger earnest money deposits to make your offer stand out.
Step 5
Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts on your due diligence period, typically 14 days in Utah. This is your opportunity to thoroughly investigate the property. Schedule a general home inspection ($350-$500) to evaluate the structure, roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Consider a radon test ($150-$200), as many Utah homes have elevated radon levels due to the geology. A sewer scope ($125-$250) checks the condition of underground sewer lines. If issues arise, your agent will help you negotiate repairs or credits with the seller. Your lender will also order an appraisal ($400-$600) to confirm the home's value supports the loan amount.
Step 6
After your offer is accepted, your lender will move from pre-approval to full underwriting. You will need to provide updated documentation including recent pay stubs, bank statements, and any other documents the underwriter requests. Do not make any major financial changes during this period -- avoid opening new credit accounts, making large purchases, changing jobs, or moving large sums of money between accounts, as these can jeopardize your loan approval. Your lender will issue a loan commitment once underwriting is complete, confirming your financing is approved. Any remaining conditions (such as updated paperwork or proof of insurance) must be satisfied before the lender can issue a "clear to close."
Step 7
Typically scheduled 24 to 48 hours before closing, the final walkthrough is your last chance to verify the property's condition before you take ownership. During the walkthrough, confirm that all agreed-upon repairs have been completed, the home is in the same condition as when you made your offer, all appliances and fixtures included in the contract are still in place, and the seller has fully moved out. Turn on faucets, flush toilets, test light switches, and run major appliances. If you discover any issues, your agent will address them with the seller's agent before closing proceeds.
Step 8
Closing in Utah takes place at a title company, which serves as the neutral third party managing the transaction. You will review and sign a stack of documents, including the deed of trust, promissory note, and closing disclosure. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and a cashier's check or arrange a wire transfer for your closing costs and down payment (your title company will provide the exact amount in advance). The title company will record the deed with the county, and once recording is confirmed, you officially own the home. The entire signing process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. After closing, you will receive the keys and can move into your new Utah home.
This is a free guide to buying a home in Utah, written by Judy Beltran, a Top 250 Utah Realtor. It covers every step from mortgage pre-approval to closing day, including making offers, inspections, and what to expect at each stage of the process.
This is a free step-by-step guide to buying a home in Utah, written by Judy Beltran, a Top 250 Utah Realtor with Iron Mountain Realty.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This tells you how much you can afford and makes your offer stronger with sellers.
From accepted offer to closing typically takes 30 to 45 days. Finding the right home may take additional time depending on the market.
The REPC (Real Estate Purchase Contract) is the standard contract used for residential purchases in Utah. It covers price, financing terms, due diligence deadlines, and all conditions of the sale.
A realtor is not legally required but is strongly recommended. Judy Beltran provides free buyer representation. Call (801) 919-5253.