If you’re planning to buy a home, Zions Bank home loans could be the starting point you need. The bank offers everything from stable fixed-rate plans to flexible adjustable-rate mortgages, along with FHA, VA, and jumbo financing.
This post will guide you through these options in plain language, helping you understand the benefits and choose the path that gets you closer to your dream home.
Overview of Zions Bank Home Loans
Zions Bank has been helping people buy and build homes for generations. They blend the financial strength of a large bank with the friendly, personalized service you expect from a local community lender. Whether you’re buying your first home, building your dream house, or refinancing to save money, Zions Bank aims to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Here’s why many buyers and homeowners turn to Zions Bank home loans:
- Local decision-making for faster loan approvals, so you’re not stuck waiting on long corporate processes.
- Experienced mortgage loan officers who guide you step-by-step, answering questions and helping you avoid costly mistakes.
- Multiple loan programs designed to fit different budgets, timelines, and goals.
- Throughout the loan term, you can save money with competitive interest rates.
- Easy-to-use digital tools like online applications, prequalification forms, and mortgage calculators.
Main Types of Zions Bank Home Loans
Zions Bank offers an extensive menu of home loan products designed to meet different financial situations, property goals, and lifestyle needs. Whether you’re buying your very first home, upgrading to a larger property, or building from the ground up, there’s a program that can work for you.
Mortgage Options
Each Zions Bank home mortgage is designed for specific needs and situations:
Fixed-Rate Mortgages
As a popular choice within Zions Bank home loans, a fixed-rate mortgage locks in your interest rate for the entire term of the loan. That means your monthly principal and interest payments remain the same year after year, giving you stability and predictability in your budget.
Common terms: 15-year or 30-year fixed loans.
Loan limits: Conventional loans available up to $806,500 in certain states; jumbo versions can go as high as $5 million for qualifying borrowers.
Advantages:
- Stable payments for easier budgeting.
- Protection against future interest rate increases.
- Shorter terms often come with lower interest rates.
Best for: People who want stable, predictable monthly payments.
If you want the security of knowing your payment will never go up, a 30-year fixed mortgage is a safe bet. If you want to pay off your home faster and save more on interest, a 15-year fixed term is worth considering.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs)
The loan starts with a low fixed interest rate for a set number of years, then the rate adjusts periodically based on market conditions. For example, a 7/1 ARM offers a low fixed rate for the first seven years, then adjusts each year after. This is a good option if you plan to move or refinance before the fixed period ends.
Popular terms: 7/1 ARM, 10/1 ARM.
Advantages:
- Lower initial rates compared to fixed loans.
- May help you qualify for a higher loan amount.
- Flexible terms for different financial plans.
Best for: Buyers who expect to sell or refinance before the fixed-rate period ends.
FHA Mortgage Loans
These Zions Bank home loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, making it easier to qualify with lower down payments.
Advantages:
- Down payments as low as 3.5%.
- Flexible credit score requirements.
- Gift funds allowed for the down payment.
Best for: First-time buyers or borrowers with limited credit history.
If you have a steady income but not much saved for a down payment, an FHA loan can help you become a homeowner sooner.
Jumbo Loans
When the price of your dream home exceeds the limits set for conventional mortgages, a jumbo loan can bridge the gap. It offers funding for properties valued up to $5 million.
Advantages:
- Avoids the need for multiple smaller loans.
- Competitive interest rates on large amounts.
- Helps you compete in hot real estate markets.
Best for: Financing luxury or high-value homes that exceed standard loan limits.
VA Mortgage Loans
Designed for eligible U.S. military service members, veterans, and certain surviving spouses, VA Zions Bank home loans can be one of the most affordable ways to buy a home. It is backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, requiring no down payment.
Advantages:
- 0% down payment.
- Competitive interest rates.
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
Best for: Eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses.
Affordable Home Mortgage Loan
If you meet income requirements and are buying your first home, this program can make homeownership more affordable by reducing upfront expenses. As one of the standout Zions Bank home loans for first-time buyers, it provides reduced lender fees, closing cost assistance, and low down payment options.
Advantages:
- Down payment as low as 3%.
- Lender-paid mortgage insurance.
- Help with closing costs for qualifying borrowers.
Best for: First-time buyers or low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Home Refinance Loans
With Zions Bank home refinancing, you can get a new mortgage with better conditions in place of your current one. For instance, refinancing from a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year loan can save you thousands in interest and help you pay off your home faster.
Advantages:
- Lower monthly payments or interest rates.
- Shorter payoff time.
- Access to home equity for other needs.
Best for: Homeowners who want to lower their rate, shorten their loan term, or access equity.
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
Zions Bank Home Equity Credit Line is a revolving credit line secured by your home’s equity that you can use as needed.
Advantages:
- Borrow only what you need, when you need it.
- Interest-only payment options available.
- Lower rates than the majority of personal loans or credit cards.
Best for: Borrowers who want flexible access to funds over time.
You can use your HELOC for a home remodel now, and then tap into it again later for another big project without reapplying.
Home Equity Loan
If you need $50,000 for a major home upgrade, a Zions Bank home equity loan provides the funds upfront and a fixed repayment plan. With this loan, you can borrow a lump sum with a fixed interest rate and set monthly payments.
Advantages:
- Predictable payments for easier budgeting.
- Lower rates compared to unsecured loans.
- Ideal for debt consolidation or big-ticket expenses.
Best for: One-time, large expenses.
Home Construction Loans
For those building from the ground up, Zions Bank home loans include one-time close construction financing. This loan type covers both the construction costs and the permanent mortgage, so you only have to close once. If you purchase a lot and start building immediately, this loan can finance both the land and construction in one package.
Advantages:
- One set of closing costs, saving you money.
- Covers land purchase, building expenses, and long-term financing.
- Flexible down payment options.
Best for: People building a new home or making major renovations.
Zions Bank Home Loan Rates & Fees
If you’re thinking about buying a home or refinancing your current mortgage, it’s important to know the rates you might qualify for. Zions Bank offers several loan types, each with its own benefits. Keep in mind that your Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may change depending on factors like your credit score, loan amount, and down payment.
Rates of Zions Bank Home Loans (Updated August 9, 2025):
| Loan Type | Term | Rate | APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed Rate Mortgage | 15-Year Conventional Fixed | 5.500% | 5.782% |
| 30-Year Conventional Fixed | 6.250% | 6.429% | |
| Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) | 7/1 ARM | 6.375% | 6.980% |
| 10/1 ARM | 6.625% | 6.986% | |
| FHA Mortgage | 30-Year Fixed FHA Loan | 5.875% | 6.681% |
| Home Refinance | 7-Year Home Refinance Loan | 7.375% | 7.909% |
| 10-Year Home Refinance Loan | 7.500% | 7.894% | |
| Jumbo Loan | 7/1 Jumbo ARM | 6.375% | 6.974% |
| 10/1 Jumbo ARM | 6.625% | 6.980% | |
| VA Mortgage | 30-Year VA Fixed | 6.000% | 6.307% |
Besides Zions Bank mortgage rates, when you take out a home loan, you’ll pay some standard costs:
- Origination or Lender Fees: Cover the work for processing and approving your loan.
- Appraisal Fee: Pays for a professional estimate of your home’s value.
- Title and Escrow Fees: Cover the legal transfer of ownership and title insurance.
- Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Applies if your down payment is under 20% on a conventional loan. Some loans may offer lender-paid mortgage insurance instead.
This bank often provides sample APRs and payment breakdowns for different Zions Bank home loans. Reviewing these can help you compare offers and choose the best fit.
Requirements and Documents Needed for Zions Bank Home Loans
Applying for Zions Bank home loans requires standard paperwork like proof of income, bank statements, and ID. Having your paperwork ready can help speed up the loan process. Common items include:
- Proof of income, such as recent pay stubs (30 days) and W-2 forms (2 years).
- Tax returns for the past two years if you’re self-employed.
- Bank statements from the past two months.
- A valid ID and Social Security number.
- Proof of assets for your down payment and reserves.
- Property details, like the purchase contract, if you’re buying a home.
For jumbo loans, you may need additional documents, such as more detailed asset statements or proof of higher income.
When reviewing a home loan application, Zions Bank focuses on three main factors:
- Credit Score: A higher score usually means a better interest rate. A score of 700 or above is often needed for the most competitive terms.
- Down Payment: Many conventional Zions Bank home loans require between 3% and 20% down. Certain programs, like the Affordable Home Mortgage, may allow as little as 3% for qualified buyers.
- Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): This shows how much of your income goes toward debt each month. Lower ratios are preferred, but the exact limit depends on the loan type and your credit profile.
But don’t worry, if your credit or finances aren’t perfect, you may still qualify through Zions Bank home loans like FHA loans, down-payment assistance programs, or the Affordable Home Mortgage plan.
Zions Bank Home Loan Application Process
Zions Bank makes applying for a home loan easier by breaking it into clear, manageable steps:
- Application: Share your personal and financial details online or meet with a loan officer in person. You can apply for Zions Bank home loans in the ways below:
- Online: Use the Zip Mortgage portal for a quick start.
- By phone: Call Zions Bank home loan customer service at 800-727-8893 to speak with a loan officer.
- In person: Visit your local branch to discuss options.
- Credit-Only Approval: Get a quick pre-approval based solely on your credit history.
- Disclosures: Within three business days, you’ll receive important details about your loan terms and costs.
- Documentation: Provide proof of your income, assets, and employment.
- Appraisal & Title Insurance: The property is evaluated to confirm its value, and the title is checked to ensure there are no legal issues.
- Loan Approval: The underwriting team reviews your application and gives the green light.
- Loan Documents: All paperwork is prepared and sent to the title company.
- Signing: Review your final documents carefully, then sign them.
- Funding: Once any required waiting periods are over, the funds are released and your loan is complete.
With online tools and a dedicated loan officer, each step can move more smoothly.
Tips for Choosing the Right Home Loan
The right mortgage is about finding a balance between your budget, your lifestyle, and your future goals. Therefore, here are some useful tips GateXFin recommends for you when selecting from Zions Bank home loans or any other home loans:
- Know Your Budget: Before you start house hunting, figure out what you can truly afford. Zions Bank’s online calculators can help you estimate monthly payments and total loan costs, giving you a clear picture before you commit.
- Check Your Credit Score: Your credit score plays a big role in determining your interest rate. A higher score can unlock lower mortgage rates, which can save you thousands over the life of the loan.
- Use Zions Bank Loan Compare Tool: Zions’ Compare Home Loans Tool lets you place different mortgage types side by side. You can see key details like interest rate structure, loan term, and other special features in one view. It’s a clear, visual way to understand how each option works.
- Match the Loan to Your Plans: If you expect to move or refinance within a few years, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) could be a smart choice. ARMs often start with a lower rate, helping you save money in the short term.
- Work with a Loan Officer: Information about Zions Bank home loans on the Internet can be overwhelming and sometimes unclear, but a knowledgeable loan officer can explain the pros and cons of each program and guide you toward the one that fits your needs best.
FAQs About Zions Bank Home Loans
How high a credit score do I need to get a home loan from Zions Bank?
- For most conventional loans, you’ll usually need a credit score of around 620 or higher. If you’re applying for an FHA or VA loan, you may still qualify with a lower score, depending on your situation.
Can I apply for a Zions home loan online?
- Yes. The Zip Mortgage platform lets you complete the application digitally, from uploading documents to tracking your progress.
What is the lowest down payment option among Zions Bank home loans?
- Zions Bank’s Affordable Home Mortgage requires as little as 3% down, making it a popular choice for buyers who don’t have large savings.
Do they serve my area?
- Zions Bank serves multiple states, with a strong presence in the western U.S. Use their Home Loan Center online to see if your location is covered.
I’m a first-time homebuyer. Any help?
- Absolutely. The Affordable Home Mortgage program offers a low down payment, reduced fees, and lender-paid assistance to make your first purchase more achievable.
Will I know all the costs before I sign?
- Yes. Zions Bank will give you a detailed Loan Estimate showing your expected monthly payments, closing costs, and fees, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before moving forward.
To sum up, Zions Bank home loans offer a complete mortgage toolbox. They combine local service with online tools like Zip Mortgage. With competitive rates and flexible programs, you can move forward with confidence. The key is to plan ahead, know your numbers, and work with the right loan officer.
