Denver, Colorado · Updated 2026
First-Time Homebuyer Grants in Denver, CO
Denver-area first-time buyers can access multiple stacking programs including true grants, forgivable loans, and deferred assistance. This guide covers every active program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Denver first-time homebuyers have access to a powerful stack of programs — including true grants that never need to be repaid. Between CHFA, metroDPA, and NeighborhoodLIFT, qualifying buyers can combine multiple programs to dramatically reduce out-of-pocket costs at closing.
Denver First-Time Buyer Programs at a Glance
| Program | Max Assistance | Type | Who Administers |
|---|---|---|---|
| CHFA Down Payment Assistance Grant | Up to 3% of loan | True Grant | CHFA (State) |
| CHFA Second Mortgage | Up to $25,000 | Deferred Loan | CHFA (State) |
| metroDPA | Up to 5% of loan | Forgiven at 3 yrs | Metro Mayors Caucus |
| NeighborhoodLIFT | $15,000 | Forgiven at 5 yrs | Wells Fargo / NeighborWorks |
| Denver HOST Programs | Varies | City Programs | City of Denver |
Not Sure Which Denver Program You Qualify For?
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Check My Eligibility — Free1. CHFA Down Payment Assistance Grant
The Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) offers a true grant — money you never have to repay — worth up to 3% of your first mortgage loan amount.
CHFA DPA Grant Up to 3% of loan — no repayment
- True grant — does not need to be repaid at any point
- Up to 3% of your first mortgage loan amount
- Must pair with a CHFA-approved 30-year fixed-rate mortgage
- Income limit: up to $149,960 for households of 3+ (non-targeted area)
- Minimum credit score: 620
- Available to first-time buyers and qualified veterans
2. CHFA Second Mortgage
Need more than a grant can cover? CHFA’s Second Mortgage provides up to $25,000 in additional assistance as a deferred, low-interest second loan.
CHFA Second Mortgage Up to $25,000
- Up to $25,000 or 4% of the loan, whichever is less
- Deferred repayment — no monthly payments until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage
- Interest rate matches your first CHFA mortgage
- Must use a CHFA first mortgage to qualify
- Can be stacked with the CHFA DPA Grant
3. metroDPA
The metroDPA program, run through the Metro Mayors Caucus, provides up to 5% of your mortgage amount for down payment and closing costs — and forgives it entirely after 3 years of living in the home.
metroDPA Up to 5% — forgiven at 3 years
- Up to 5% of the mortgage loan amount for down payment and closing costs
- Fully forgiven after 3 years of continuous occupancy — effectively a grant for most buyers
- Available in Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties
- Income limits vary by household size and county
- Minimum credit score: 640
- Can be stacked with other assistance programs
4. NeighborhoodLIFT
The NeighborhoodLIFT program, funded through Wells Fargo and NeighborWorks America, provides $15,000 in down payment help — forgiven after 5 years of homeownership.
NeighborhoodLIFT $15,000 — forgiven at 5 years
- $15,000 in down payment assistance on qualified properties
- Fully forgiven after 5 years of continuous occupancy
- Available in Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties
- Homebuyer education course required before closing
- Income and purchase price limits apply
5. Denver Housing Stability (HOST) Programs
Denver’s Department of Housing Stability (HOST) administers additional local assistance for Denver city residents. Programs and funding levels change throughout the year.
Denver HOST Programs Varies by program
- City-administered programs for Denver residents specifically
- Availability and amounts vary — programs open and close as funding is exhausted
- Contact HOST directly for current openings: 720-673-3948
- Typically targets lower-income first-time buyers
How to Apply for Denver Down Payment Assistance
Review income limits, credit score requirements, and purchase price limits for each program. CHFA limits, metroDPA limits, and HOST limits are all different — check each one.
Required for nearly all programs. The CHFA-approved online course takes about 6 hours and costs approximately $75. Complete it before applying to speed up the process.
For CHFA programs, you must use a CHFA-approved lender. For metroDPA, use a metroDPA-participating lender. Your lender applies the assistance on your behalf at closing.
The property must be your primary residence and fall within the program’s purchase price limits. CHFA limits for Denver County are approximately $750,000.
Many Denver buyers combine programs — for example, a CHFA mortgage with the DPA Grant plus metroDPA on top. Your lender can tell you which combinations are allowed for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Editorial Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. Program details, income limits, and eligibility rules change — always verify current terms directly with CHFA, metroDPA, or your lender before applying. This is not financial advice.
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