Buy your Utah home with a broker who shops every lender for you.
We compare the nation's top wholesale lenders to find your best rate and program. You get a pre-approval sellers trust and a team that stays with you to the closing table.
- 21-day closing guarantee with our Platinum Pre-Approval
- Earnest money guarantee: protected if we make a pre-approval error
- Programs for first-time buyers, veterans, physicians and the self-employed
Real numbers. Straight answers. No pressure.
Tell us a little about your goals. Nelson will reach out the same business day with options from dozens of wholesale lenders.
See if you qualify: free, no commitment.
No pressure. Nelson will give you a straight answer about whether this works for your situation.
The right loan for your first, next or forever home
One bank has one menu. We put every major purchase program side by side, then show you the real payment and cash to close for each.
Conventional Loans
As little as 3% down, with mortgage insurance you can remove.
Learn more →FHA Loans
3.5% down and more flexible credit guidelines.
Learn more →VA Loans
$0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance for eligible veterans.
Learn more →USDA Loans
$0 down in eligible Utah communities.
Learn more →Jumbo Loans
Financing above conforming limits for higher-priced homes.
Learn more →Down Payment Assistance
Utah Housing and state programs that cover your down payment.
Learn more →Loans built around how you actually earn
Doctors with big student loans. Business owners with smart write-offs. Veterans PCSing to Hill. Standard bank guidelines miss a lot of good borrowers. We specialize in them.
We don't work for the bank. We work for you.
As an independent mortgage broker, we sit on your side of the table. Our technology lets us shop dozens of wholesale lenders at once, and wholesale pricing is often lower than what retail banks offer the public.
Then we walk beside you to the closing table to make sure you get exactly what you were promised.
| Utah Independent Mortgage | Your bank or credit union | Big online lender | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenders compared | Dozens of wholesale lenders | One: their own | One: their own |
| Pricing | Wholesale rates & fees | Retail | Retail, with heavy advertising costs |
| Niche programs (physician, bank statement, DSCR) | Yes, compared side by side | Limited or none | Limited |
| Who you talk to | Nelson & Danna, start to finish | Varies by branch | Call center |
| Closing guarantee | 21-day Platinum Pre-Approval | Rare | Varies |
| Earnest money guarantee | Yes | No | No |
| At your closing | Nelson attends to make sure promises are kept | Usually not | No |
From first call to keys in hand
Free strategy call
15 minutes with Nelson to talk goals, budget and timeline. No pressure.
Platinum Pre-Approval
We review your file up front so your offer is strong and your numbers are real.
Shop & make offers
We talk with your agent and the listing agent to help your offer stand out.
Close in 21 days
We lock your rate, push your file daily and attend your closing.
What you can count on
Low Rates & Fees Promise
Honest, competitive rates and fees. Our access and business model put us in a unique position to deliver them.
Passionate About Speed
Every file is a rush from day one. Ask about our 21-day Platinum Pre-Approval closing guarantee.
Earnest Money Guarantee
If you lose earnest money due to a pre-approval error on our part, we pay you back.
Teachers, Not Salespeople
No pressure. Just clear knowledge in plain terms so you can decide.
Buyers keep coming back
Nelson and Danna did an outstanding job processing everything for my VA loan. They were very quick and responsive, and everything went much quicker than I expected. I was very happy with the rate and fees they were able to get for me.
This is the 2nd time we have worked with them to buy a house… They helped us to ensure that we configured our mortgage the best way possible for our needs. They were in constant contact with us to make adjustments to get us the best deal possible.
I could not have been happier with my experience! Nelson and Danna went way above and beyond… you will get an incredible attention to detail, but most of all you will feel like you're talking to your friends.
Had a horrible experience with a previous lender trying to refinance. I came here for a second opinion. They got me a lower interest rate and house payment. Dana and Nelson do a great job here!
Throughout the sometimes complicated task of securing a mortgage, our experience was always one of clear communication, support, and generosity. Highly recommend.
We've now worked with Nelson and Danna on two home mortgage refinances and one new home mortgage. They are patient and willing to work hard for you!
Two people who know your file by name
Nelson Barss
Principal BrokerNelson has over 20 years of experience helping clients finance homes. He'll consult with you, pre-approve you and find the best lender and program for your goals. He sets rock-solid expectations for your rate, fees and monthly payment, and he attends your closing to make sure every promise is honored.
Your main point of contact from application through rate lock. Host of the Utah Homebuyer's Quest podcast.
Danna Bauer
Senior Loan PartnerDanna has over 10 years of experience guiding clients through closing. She has the perfect mix of knowledge and care to keep your file moving and keep you informed. She is a problem solver, a patient explainer and an empathetic companion on your journey.
Your main point of contact from rate lock to closing.
Refinance and home equity options
Keep your low first-mortgage rate and still access equity, or refinance when the math works.
Utah homebuyer FAQ
Straight answers to what buyers ask us most. Want to hear more? Listen to Nelson on the Utah Homebuyer's Quest podcast.
What credit score do I need to buy a house in Utah?
FHA loans can go as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans generally start around 620, and the best pricing comes at 740+. We'll tell you where you stand on the first call.
Can I buy a house with no money down in Utah?
Yes. VA and USDA loans offer $0 down for eligible buyers, and some physician loans do too. Down payment assistance can cover most of the down payment on FHA and conventional loans.
How long does mortgage pre-approval take?
Usually 1–2 business days once we have your documents, and sometimes the same day.
Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Full-doc loans work if your tax returns show enough income. If not, bank statement, 1099 and P&L programs qualify you on cash flow.
What's the difference between a mortgage broker and a bank?
A bank offers only its own loans. A broker shops many wholesale lenders for you, often with lower rates and more program options.
How much are closing costs in Utah?
Commonly 2–4% of the purchase price. Seller concessions and lender credits can reduce what you pay out of pocket.
How long does it take to close on a home loan in Utah?
Typically 21–30 days. Our Platinum Pre-Approval comes with a 21-day closing guarantee.
How much house can I afford in Utah?
It depends on income, debts, down payment, taxes and HOA. Try our mortgage calculator, then get a pre-approval for a firm number.
Let's start your home journey today
Get a pre-approval you can shop with, backed by our 21-day closing guarantee.