Your Loan Options
Loan programs made for first-time buyers
There's no single "first-time buyer loan" — there are several programs designed to make homeownership accessible. Curtis will help you find the one that fits your credit, income, and savings.
FHA Loan
The most accessible loan program available — low down payment, flexible credit guidelines, and works with most down payment assistance programs.
3.5% Down Payment
As little as $8,750 down on a $250,000 home
580+ Credit Score
More accessible than conventional loans
43% Max Debt-to-Income
More flexible qualification guidelines
Gift Funds Allowed
Down payment can come from family gifts
Works with DPA Grants
Stack FHA with grant programs for $0 out of pocket
Primary Residence Only
For the home you'll live in
Conventional Loan (3% Down)
If your credit score is 620 or above, a conventional loan with 3% down may offer better long-term savings — especially if you can eventually drop mortgage insurance.
3% Down Payment
Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible programs
620+ Credit Score
Best rates at 740+
PMI Removable
Once you reach 20% equity, mortgage insurance goes away
No Upfront MIP
Unlike FHA, no upfront mortgage insurance premium
Lower Long-Term Cost
For buyers with strong credit, often cheaper than FHA over time
Income Limits May Apply
HomeReady/Home Possible have AMI income limits
VA Loan — Zero Down
If you've served in the U.S. military, you've earned one of the best mortgage benefits in existence. Zero down payment, no mortgage insurance, and competitive rates.
0% Down Payment
No down payment required — ever
No Mortgage Insurance
Save hundreds per month vs FHA or conventional
Competitive Rates
Some of the lowest rates available
620+ Credit Recommended
No official minimum but most lenders want 620+
Veterans, Active Duty & Surviving Spouses
Check your eligibility with Curtis
Can Be Used Multiple Times
Your VA benefit doesn't expire
Down Payment Assistance
Get in a home with little to no money out of pocket
Many first-time buyers don't realize that down payment assistance and grant programs can cover most — or even all — of their upfront costs. Curtis specializes in finding and stacking these programs to maximize your benefit.
The Forgiven Loan
A 0% interest second mortgage with no monthly payments — automatically forgiven after 36 on-time payments on your first mortgage. Credit scores as low as 600.
The Flexible Option
Up to 5% assistance on FHA and USDA loans. Choose a forgivable second mortgage (forgiven after 60 payments) or a repayable option. No FHA income limits.
The True Grant
Free money — never repaid. Up to 3.5% on FHA loans. Available on FHA and conventional including HomeReady and Home Possible. First-time buyers often qualify even above income limits.
Want the full details on all 3 programs?
See eligibility requirements, income limits, and county-specific information on our Down Payment Assistance page.
The Process
How to buy your first home — step by step
Fill out our quick questionnaire — no credit pull, no obligation. Curtis will calculate your buying power and identify every grant and assistance program you may qualify for.
Curtis reviews your full credit, income, and savings picture and issues a pre-qualification letter — so you can shop with confidence and sellers take you seriously.
Work with a real estate agent to find the right home in your budget. Curtis coordinates with your agent throughout the process.
Once you're under contract, Curtis handles the loan application, appraisal coordination, and underwriting — keeping you informed every step of the way through closing day.
Ready to take the first step?
No credit pull. No pressure. Just honest answers about what you can afford and what programs can help you get there.
Curtis Christensen
Curtis loves helping first-time buyers navigate the process — from figuring out what they can afford to finding grant money they didn't know existed. If you've been told you can't qualify, get a second opinion.
💬 Let's Find Your Path to Homeownership
Answer a few questions so Curtis can identify the best loan and assistance programs for your situation.
Step 1 of 2 — Your Situation
Tell us about your needs
Step 2 of 2 — Your Results
Where should we send your information?
By submitting you consent to be contacted by Curtis Christensen NMLS #156825 at Utah Mortgage NMLS #1432672.
You're All Set!
Curtis will review your information and be in touch shortly — usually within a few hours during business days.
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