Clearfield, Utah is home to Hill Air Force Base, one of the largest employers in the state. For military families posted there—or those transferring in—buying a home in Clearfield makes sense: proximity to base, established military community, and solid schools.
But choosing the right mortgage is critical. VA loans are incredible for military buyers, but understanding how they work in the Clearfield market—and when a conventional or FHA loan might be smarter—can save you thousands.
Why Clearfield for Military Families?
Hill Air Force Base is a major economic hub, meaning:
- Stable community: Multi-generational military presence = solid schools, veteran support networks, and predictable market demand
- Median home price: $450k–$550k (lower than Salt Lake City proper, more affordable than Draper or Lehi)
- Commute: 15–20 minutes to base from central Clearfield; 40 minutes to downtown SLC
- Schools: Hill Air Force Academy Elementary (on base), plus Davis School District (solid ratings)
- Amenities: Clearfield City Parks, shopping on Main Street, Hill Air Force Base Exchange
Pro Tip: VA loans have zero down payment and no PMI—two massive advantages over conventional financing. If you're military, you're leaving money on the table by not leveraging your VA benefit.
VA Loans in Clearfield: The Military Advantage
VA loans are the best-kept secret in military real estate. Here's why they crush conventional financing:
- Zero down payment: Buy with no out-of-pocket down payment. Conventional buyers need 3–20% down.
- No PMI: No monthly mortgage insurance. Conventional loans under 20% down require PMI (typically 0.5–1.5% annually).
- Competitive rates: VA rates are typically 0.25–0.5% lower than conventional because the VA guarantees the lender's loss.
- Closing cost cap: Lenders can't charge certain closing costs. Sellers can pay yours.
- Funding fee: One-time cost (1–3.6% of loan amount). Waived if you're 100% disabled.
Clearfield VA Loan Example
$500,000 home in Clearfield:
- VA loan (zero down, 6.95% rate): $3,327/month (principal + interest)
- Conventional loan (10% down, 7.25% rate): $4,010/month (P&I + PMI)
- Monthly savings: $683 | **Annual savings: $8,196**
Rates and closing costs based on October 1, 2026 market data; individual rates vary by credit score, down payment, loan term, property type, and lender.
VA Loan Steps in Clearfield
- Get your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): File with VA.gov or through your lender. Takes 3–7 days.
- Get pre-approved: Lender reviews CoE, credit, income, and debt. Gives you buying power and shows sellers you're serious.
- Find your home: Work with a Realtor familiar with VA rules (some older homes don't qualify; appraisal standards are stricter).
- Make an offer: Standard offer; flag it as VA loan. Many Clearfield sellers expect VA offers and welcome them.
- Appraisal & underwriting: VA appraisals are stricter (property must meet habitability standards). Takes 1–2 weeks.
- Close: Sign docs, fund loan, get keys. Typically 30–45 days from offer to close.
When to Use Conventional or FHA Instead
VA loans are incredible, but they're not always the best option.
Use a Conventional Loan If:
- You're not military (no VA benefit to use)
- You want to preserve your VA benefit for a future home (e.g., investment property)
- You have significant down payment funds and want maximum flexibility
- You're buying a second property (VA loans are primary residence only)
Use FHA If:
- You have lower credit (FHA accepts scores down to 580)
- You want a smaller down payment (3.5%) but can't access VA
- You're self-employed or have nontraditional income (FHA can be flexible with documentation)
Clearfield Real Estate Market Snapshot
- Median sale price: $480k (as of Sept 2026)
- Days on market: 25–35 days (moderate inventory)
- Typical buyer: Military families, young professionals, retirees downsizing
- Property types: Mix of single-family homes (60%), townhomes (25%), condos (15%)
- School ratings: Hill Air Force Academy Elementary (on base), Clearfield Elementary, Sunset View Elementary
Today's National Average Mortgage Rates
⚡ Quick note: My rates at Edge Home Finance consistently beat these national averages — contact me for a personalized quote.
| Loan Type |
National Avg Rate |
| 30-Year Fixed |
7.60% |
| 15-Year Fixed |
7.05% |
| FHA 30-Year |
7.10% |
| VA 30-Year |
7.05% |
Rates shown are national averages as of October 1, 2026 sourced from Mortgage News Daily / Bankrate. Individual rates vary based on credit score, down payment, loan amount, property type, loan term, and lender. These are not rate quotes or a commitment to lend. Contact Ryan Taylor at Edge Home Finance for a personalized rate quote. Ryan Taylor NMLS# 1487488 | Edge Home Finance NMLS# 891464 | Equal Housing Opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my VA loan benefit to buy a second home in Clearfield?
A: No. VA loans are for primary residences only. If you own another home, the Clearfield purchase must be your primary residence for the VA loan to be eligible.
Q: What is the funding fee, and can I avoid it?
A: The funding fee is 1–3.6% of the loan amount (paid upfront or rolled into the loan). It's waived if you're 100% disabled. Otherwise, you pay it once per VA loan unless you elect not to (which reduces your buying power by that amount).
Q: Do sellers in Clearfield accept VA offers?
A: Absolutely. Hill Air Force Base is a major employer, so VA offers are common and expected. Sellers know VA buyers are serious, well-funded, and closing power is strong.
Q: Can I get a VA loan if I'm in the National Guard or Reserves?
A: Yes—if you've served at least 90 days of active duty. Get your Certificate of Eligibility from VA.gov to confirm your exact entitlement.
Q: How long does a VA loan take to close?
A: Typically 30–45 days from offer to closing. VA appraisals can take 1–2 weeks, so give yourself time. The VA doesn't impose timeline limits; it's lender and appraiser dependent.
Q: Can I use my VA benefit in Clearfield if I'm buying with a non-military spouse?
A: Yes. Your military status and CoE are what matter. Your spouse doesn't need military service. They'll be on the note and mortgage, but your benefit applies to the whole loan.
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About Ryan Taylor
Ryan Taylor, NMLS# 1487488 is a mortgage broker with Edge Home Finance (NMLS# 891464). He specializes in VA loans, conventional financing, and FHA programs for Utah military families and first-time buyers.
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