First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Denver, CO
Denver runs a named local FTHB program (Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer) that layers on top of the state flagship — first-time buyers here regularly stack both plus a federal loan. Median first-time buyer purchase price in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area is around $488,000.
Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer
Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer is a Denver-specific program that layers on top of CHFA's state flagship (CHFA FirstStep) and federal FHA/VA/USDA loans. Terms, income caps, and funding cycles change each fiscal year — verify current details before applying.
How first-time homebuyer programs work in Denver
Denver first-time buyers assemble their financing from three layers. The state flagship — CHFA FirstStep from CHFA — pairs a competitive first mortgage with down payment and closing-cost assistance, often as a forgivable second lien. Federal programs (FHA at 3.5% down, VA at 0% for eligible veterans, USDA for qualifying outer-ring Denver-Aurora-Lakewood ZIPs) layer underneath.
On top of that, Denver runs Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer — a local program with ZIP or income restrictions that often delivers the largest per-buyer totals in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area. Combined, Denver buyers regularly stack all three.
Eligibility hinges on three inputs: credit score, household income relative to program caps that vary by county in CO, and purchase price. Completing a HUD-approved homebuyer education course is required before closing.
How to qualify: Denver first-time buyer steps
- 1
Check your credit for Denver program eligibility
Most Colorado first-time buyer programs require typically 620–640 for conventional, 580 for FHA. Pull your score for free with a soft inquiry.
- 2
Confirm first-time buyer status
CHFA defines "first-time buyer" as not owning a principal residence in the past three years. Some Denver targeted ZIPs waive this rule.
- 3
Take a HUD-approved homebuyer education course
Most CO programs require an approved homebuyer education course before closing. Most run 6–8 hours online.
- 4
Apply through a participating Denver lender
Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer is originated by participating lenders in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area, not directly by the program agency. Your loan officer submits the DPA package alongside your main mortgage.
- 5
Close on your Denver home
First mortgage funds and DPA come to closing together. Median first-time buyer purchase price in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area is around $488,000.
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Start my readiness checkDenver first-time buyer programs: FAQ
What first-time buyer programs are available in Denver, CO?▾
Denver runs a named local program — Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer — which layers on top of the state flagship CHFA FirstStep from CHFA. Combined, they stack with federal FHA, VA, and USDA loans for the largest per-buyer total.
What credit score do I need for first-time buyer programs in Denver?▾
Most Colorado first-time buyer programs require typically 620–640 for conventional, 580 for FHA. Higher scores unlock better rates and more DPA options.
How much home can a first-time buyer afford in Denver?▾
Median first-time buyer purchase price in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area is around $488,000 — meaningfully below the overall metro median of $595,000 because FTHBs concentrate in condos and starter homes. Use HomeApproach's Affordability Simulator to model what you can afford in your target ZIP.
Do Denver programs work with FHA or VA loans?▾
Yes. Denver metroDPA First-Time Homebuyer and most CHFA products layer on top of FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional first mortgages. Your lender submits the DPA package alongside your first mortgage.
Can I stack Denver local DPA with state and federal programs?▾
In most cases yes. Denver buyers regularly combine the local program with county DPA and federal loans. Home Approach's Grant Finder waterfalls through all four layers by ZIP to show your total.