How to Buy a House in Idaho
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$465,288
Closing Costs
$12,988
2.79% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.48%
$1,977/yr median
Days on Market
48
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
No
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
None
None
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Key Facts About Buying in Idaho
- ✓No transfer tax
- ✓One of the fastest-growing housing markets
- ✓Boise metro area drives much of the state's demand
- ✓Non-judicial foreclosure state
The Home Buying Process in Idaho
Buying a home in Idaho follows a 10-step process. Idaho does not require an attorney at closing, though you may choose to hire one.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in Idaho
Idaho Housing First Loan
Below-market rate FHA/VA/USDA loans
Reduced rates + up to 4% assistanceIncome: Varies by county
Cost of Buying a Home in Idaho
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $16,285 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $93,058 |
| Average Closing Costs | $12,988 |
| Transfer Tax | None |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $2,233/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in Idaho
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $175,000
Licensing Authority
Idaho Real Estate Commission
Idaho Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty or corporate deed; quitclaim deed sometimes used |
| Security Instrument | Deed of trust (mortgage for property >40 acres) |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | No |
| Deficiency Judgment | Yes |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | Sellers must disclose issues known from living on the property-hazardous materials, pests, zoning violations, boundary disputes, unpermitted additions, structural or system defects and malfunctioning appliances. |
