First-Time Home Buyers in Highland, Utah

It depends on your loan type and whether you qualify for down payment assistance. FHA loans require 3.5% down, conventional loans start at 3%, VA loans require zero down, and USDA loans require zero down in eligible areas. Utah Housing Corporation offers grants and forgivable second mortgages that can cover your entire down payment and some closing costs. We help you identify every available program to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.

Ask a lender about a documented pre-approval before you shop. A letter can clarify a budget range and which programs might fit. It does not tell you that you will qualify or lock a payment. Sellers often want to see a letter. We can connect you with lenders who work with first-time buyer programs.

From pre-approval to closing typically takes 45–90 days, depending on how quickly you find a home and your loan type. The home search itself varies, some buyers find a home in a week, others take several months. Once you're under contract, expect 30–45 days to close for conventional and FHA loans, and 45–60 days for VA and USDA loans. We set realistic timelines based on your specific situation.

Plan for closing costs (2–4% of the purchase price), home inspection ($350–500), appraisal fee ($400–600), homeowner's insurance (first year paid at closing), and moving expenses. Some of these costs can be negotiated as seller concessions. We provide a detailed cost estimate early in the process so there are no surprises.

Highland and Alpine share large-lot character, but Highland is more accessible with slightly smaller typical lot sizes and more developed commercial amenities (especially with the new Town Center). Highland's housing stock tends to be newer on average, and prices, while premium, are generally below Alpine's top tier. For investors, Highland may offer better liquidity because more homes trade and rents sit slightly below Alpine's top range. Both are in the Alpine School District.

Highland Town Center is a mixed-use development that's transforming the city's identity from a purely residential bedroom community into a place with walkable dining, shopping, and gathering spaces. The development includes restaurants, retail, and residential components. For existing Highland property owners and investors, the Town Center adds lifestyle amenities that enhance rental marketability, tenants can now walk to dinner or coffee rather than driving to American Fork for everything. This is a meaningful quality-of-life improvement that supports rent growth and tenant retention.

4-bedroom homes in Highland typically rent for $2,500–$3,500, with 5-6 bedroom homes on large lots reaching $3,500–$5,000. These rents reflect the premium location, school district, and property quality. Acquisition costs in the $600K–$900K range mean cash-on-cash returns are modest, but appreciation has been strong and consistent. Highland is a wealth-building market for investors who value stability, low management intensity, and longer average occupancy. The small inventory of rentals means well-priced listings generate immediate interest.