One of my favorite parts of this work is helping people discover options they didn’t even know existed — especially when those options open doors to homeownership.
And this week was a powerful reminder of just how much impact that can have.
We’re currently helping a first-time buyer who was approved for $30,000 in grant funds through a local grant program with Murray City. That additional buying power completely changed what was possible for him — allowing him to purchase a condo at a higher price point than he originally thought he could afford.
That’s real buying power.
That’s real opportunity.
And that’s exactly why these programs matter.
This Is What “Buying Power” Looks Like
Right now, there are grant funds available in several cities, including Murray and Midvale — offering up to $30,000 to qualified first-time homebuyers.
These programs are designed to help bridge the gap between where buyers are today and what they can afford — turning “almost” into “approved.”
In this case, the funds are:
• Forgivable after five years of living in the home
• 0% interest
• No monthly payments
• Applied directly toward the purchase
• Available with income limit guidelines
What’s important to understand: this isn’t traditional debt — it’s opportunity.
When paired with the right loan strategy, it can be a complete game-changer.
For our buyer, it meant:
✔️ More options
✔️ A stronger offer
✔️ A better-fit home
✔️ Less out-of-pocket stress
That’s what thoughtful planning and strategizing creates!
A Quick Note on Eligibility (Keeping It Simple)
Programs like the Murray City and Midvale City grants are designed specifically for first-time buyers purchasing owner-occupied homes.
In general, buyers need to:
• Be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership in the past three years)
• Purchase an owner-occupied property (single-family, condo, townhome, etc.)
• Complete a simple online homebuyer education course
• Meet household income guidelines (which vary by city)
That’s it.
No monthly payments on the grant.
No complicated hoops.
And the funds are forgivable after five years of living in the home.
Every situation is different — which is why I always recommend running real scenarios.
Many buyers are surprised by what becomes possible once we look at everything together.
(And if you’re a Realtor with a first-time buyer client — this is absolutely worth exploring!)
Why This Matters Right Now
We’re seeing momentum build in 2026 — and for first-time buyers especially, there are more creative solutions available than many people realize.
Between grants, low-down-payment programs, and flexible financing options, this is a market where strategy matters just as much as rates.
The key is knowing what’s available — and having a team that knows how to connect the dots.
That’s where we come in.
Thinking About Buying? Let’s Run the Scenarios.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer — or know someone who is — this is a great time to explore what’s possible.
No pressure.
No commitment.
Just numbers, options, and clarity.
We’re always happy to walk through scenarios, answer questions, and help you understand your buying power.
Because sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to turn “maybe someday” into “we’re doing this!”
Let’s go!!!
— SE
