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First-Time Buyer loans in Idaho

Quick answer

First-time buyers in Idaho can use FHA (3.5% down), conventional 97 (3% down), VA or USDA loans, plus programs from Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA). On a $376,000 home, 3% down is about $11,280.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

First-Time Buyer loan snapshot for Idaho

ItemEstimate
Minimum down payment0%–3.5%
Minimum credit score580–620
Typical ID home value$376,000
3.5% down on typical home$13,160
20% down on typical home$75,200
Avg. effective property tax0.53%/yr (~$167/mo)
Income for typical home (31% rule)$114,000

Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.

Which Idaho programs pair with First-Time Buyer loans?

  • Idaho Housing First Loan: A 30-year fixed first mortgage through approved lenders for buyers under income limits.
  • Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance: A second mortgage that can cover part of the down payment and closing costs.

Details and current limits: Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA).

Compare first-time buyer loan options

LoanMin. downMin. creditMortgage insurance
FHA3.5%5801.75% upfront + annual MIP
Conventional 97 / HomeReady / Home Possible3%620PMI, removable
VA0%Lender-set (~580–620)None (funding fee)
USDA0%~6401% upfront + 0.35% annual

Who counts as a first-time home buyer?

Under HUD and most agency definitions, you're a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a principal residence in the last three years. Single parents and displaced homemakers who only owned with a former spouse may also qualify.

First-Time Buyer loans in Idaho cities

First-Time Buyer in BoiseFirst-Time Buyer in MeridianFirst-Time Buyer in NampaFirst-Time Buyer in Idaho FallsFirst-Time Buyer in CaldwellFirst-Time Buyer in PocatelloFirst-Time Buyer in Coeur d'AleneFirst-Time Buyer in Twin FallsFirst-Time Buyer in Post FallsFirst-Time Buyer in RexburgFirst-Time Buyer in LewistonFirst-Time Buyer in EagleFirst-Time Buyer in KunaFirst-Time Buyer in MoscowFirst-Time Buyer in AmmonFirst-Time Buyer in Mountain HomeFirst-Time Buyer in HaydenFirst-Time Buyer in ChubbuckFirst-Time Buyer in StarFirst-Time Buyer in JeromeFirst-Time Buyer in BlackfootFirst-Time Buyer in Garden CityFirst-Time Buyer in BurleyFirst-Time Buyer in RathdrumFirst-Time Buyer in Middleton

Frequently asked questions

Yes. First-Time Buyer loans are available statewide in Idaho through approved lenders, subject to county loan limits where they apply.

Often yes. Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and local programs frequently pair assistance with FHA, conventional, VA or USDA first mortgages. Eligibility depends on income, price and program rules.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.