Colorado Down Payment Assistance Programs

Colorado down payment assistance comes mainly from CHFA, the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, plus local programs such as the Metro Down Payment Assistance program in the Denver area.

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    • The short answer

    Colorado down payment assistance programs

    CHFA Down Payment Assistance Grant

    A grant toward down payment or closing costs, paired with a CHFA first mortgage, that doesn't need to be repaid.

    CHFA Down Payment Assistance Second Mortgage

    A deferred second mortgage repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off the first loan.

    CHFA FirstStep and SmartStep

    Fixed-rate FHA and conventional first mortgages that can be combined with CHFA assistance.

    Metro Down Payment Assistance (Denver area)

    Assistance for buyers in participating Denver-metro communities, subject to income limits.

    Who usually qualifies

  • Household income and purchase price under CHFA limits for your county
  • Completion of a CHFA-approved homebuyer education course
  • Owner-occupied primary residence
  • Minimum credit score (CHFA generally looks for 620+)
  • Some programs are open to repeat buyers, not just first-timers

    • Program funding, amounts and income limits change often. We confirm current limits for your county before you make an offer.

    Colorado questions

    How much down payment assistance can I get in Colorado?

    It depends on the program and current CHFA limits. CHFA assistance is typically a percentage of the first mortgage amount. We check current limits for your county before you make an offer.

    Do I have to be a first-time buyer for CHFA assistance?

    Not always. Some CHFA programs are available to repeat buyers who meet income and purchase-price limits.

    Is CHFA down payment assistance a grant or a loan?

    Both exist. The CHFA grant doesn't need to be repaid, while the CHFA second mortgage is deferred and repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off the home.

    Next step

    Understand rate locks in Colorado

    Keep exploring

    First-time buyers in Colorado

    Programs, credit minimums and steps.

    Mortgage pre-approval guide

    What lenders verify and how long it takes.

    The home buying process

    All 8 steps from search to closing.

    Closing costs explained

    What you'll pay at closing and why.