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Financial Assistance

DOWN PAYMENT
ASSISTANCE

Colorado offers numerous programs to help you with your down payment and closing costs. Grants, forgivable loans, and low-interest second mortgages can make homeownership possible.

COLORADO DPA
PROGRAMS

Multiple programs are available depending on your location, income, and eligibility. Here are the major programs we work with.

CHFA Down Payment Assistance

Colorado Housing and Finance Authority offers two flexible options to help with your down payment. Choose the grant that never needs repayment or a deferred second mortgage.

  • Up to 3% grant that never needs to be repaid
  • Up to 4% second mortgage deferred until sale/refinance
  • 620 credit score, $1,000 contribution, income limits vary
  • FirstGeneration program offers up to $25,000 for non-homeowners with non-homeowner parents
  • Homebuyer education required

MetroDPA

Flexible assistance for Front Range buyers in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and surrounding cities with high income limits and unique social equity grants.

  • Available for both first-time and repeat buyers
  • Income limits up to $210,150 (2026)—higher than most programs
  • $25,000 social equity grant forgiven after 3 years for qualified historical areas
  • 0% interest deferred loan—no payments until sale or refinance

HomeReady & Home Possible

The 3% down conventional solution with lower rates, reduced insurance, and faster closings. Don't let a small down payment keep you from a Colorado home—these specialized programs make homeownership affordable for low-to-moderate income buyers.

  • Own for less with just 3% down—gifts and grants accepted
  • Reduced PMI costs that drop off at 20% equity, unlike FHA loans
  • Use boarder income or ADU rental income to boost your qualifying power
  • Available for buyers earning 80% or less of Area Median Income in their county

First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Unlock exclusive benefits for first-time buyers. Not just for 'first-timers'—if you haven't owned in 3 years, you're back in! State and local programs bridge the gap between your savings and the closing table.

  • 3-year rule: qualify as first-time buyer if no ownership in 3 years
  • Up to 3% grants (no repayment) or 4% second mortgages (deferred)
  • First-generation buyers may access up to $25,000 expanded assistance
  • Below-market rates and reduced mortgage insurance save hundreds monthly

ELIGIBILITY
REQUIREMENTS

Each program has specific requirements, but most share these common eligibility factors.

Income Limits

Most programs have income limits based on Area Median Income (AMI). Limits vary by county and household size. Many middle-income families qualify.

First-Time Buyer Status

Many programs require first-time buyer status (haven't owned a home in 3 years). Some programs available to all buyers.

Primary Residence

Property must be your primary residence. Investment properties and second homes don't qualify for DPA programs.

Homebuyer Education

Most programs require completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Available online or in-person.

Minimum Credit Score

Generally 620+ required, though some programs accept lower scores with compensating factors.

First-Time Buyers

Your Down Payment
Doesn't Have To Wait

Colorado offers multiple down payment assistance programs to help you get into your home sooner. Let us match you with the right program for your situation.

$25K+
Available Assistance
Multiple
Programs
Free
Consultation

HOW MUCH
CAN YOU GET?

$10K-$25K

Typical Assistance

Most Colorado buyers receive between $10,000-$25,000 in down payment assistance depending on the program and home price.

3-5%

Of Purchase Price

Many programs offer 3-5% of the purchase price to help cover your down payment and closing costs.

100%

Forgivable Grants

Some grants are 100% forgivable after living in the home for 5 years. No repayment required.

LOAN TYPES THAT
WORK WITH DPA

Down payment assistance can be combined with various loan types.

Montreal, Canada : Colorful Victorian house facades with outdoor staircases in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood

SPECIALTY
PROGRAMS