Colorado First-Time Home Buyer Programs in 2026: CHFA, MetroDPA & More

Colorado has some of the most generous first-time home buyer programs in the country, yet most buyers don't know about them or don't realize they qualify. In 2026, these programs can save qualifying buyers tens of thousands of dollars - and many can be stacked with a buyer rebate to maximize your total savings.

Do You Qualify as a "First-Time Home Buyer" in Colorado?

Colorado's definition is broader than you might think. You qualify if you have not owned a primary residence in the past three years - even if you owned a home before. This means many repeat buyers also qualify after a period of renting.

CHFA: Colorado's Primary First-Time Buyer Resource

The Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional) with below-market interest rates, paired with down payment assistance.

CHFA DPA Grant

A true, non-repayable grant of up to 3% of your loan amount (up to $25,000) toward your down payment or closing costs. Never has to be paid back. Requires a 620+ credit score and a homebuyer education course.

CHFA DPA Second Mortgage

Additional funds as a deferred loan - no monthly payments, no interest, due only when you sell or refinance. Can be paired with the DPA Grant for maximum assistance.

CHFA FirstGeneration Program

Up to $25,000 in down payment assistance for buyers whose parents never owned a home. One of the most valuable programs available anywhere in the country.

MetroDPA: Denver Metro's Zero-Interest Forgivable Loan

• Up to 6% of your first mortgage loan amount in assistance
• Zero interest - the loan accrues no interest
• Fully forgiven after 3 years of living in the home as your primary residence
• Available throughout the Denver metro area

If you plan to stay in your Denver home for at least three years (which most buyers do), MetroDPA essentially gives you a free down payment boost with no strings attached.

VA and USDA Loans: Zero Down Options

VA loans allow qualifying veterans and active-duty military to buy with zero down and no private mortgage insurance. USDA loans offer zero down options for buyers in designated rural areas of Colorado - many areas outside the Denver metro qualify.

How to Stack Programs for Maximum Savings

• Use a CHFA loan with the DPA Grant to reduce your down payment
• Negotiate seller concessions to cover part of your closing costs
• Apply your 1% Home Offer Ninja rebate to remaining closing costs

Done strategically, a Denver buyer on a $500,000 home could receive $15,000+ in assistance plus a $5,000 rebate - dramatically reducing the cash needed to close.