DENVER REAL ESTATE | COLORADO LIFESTYLESThe short answer
CHFA programs are delivered through participating lenders, not through a direct mortgage application to a real estate agent. The process is to screen eligibility, complete required education, compare program financing and satisfy lender and property requirements. Assistance can reduce upfront cash needs, but the grant or second-mortgage terms and the first-mortgage price should be evaluated together.
Begin with the participating lender
Tell the lender your income sources, household situation, target county and purchase timeline. Ask which CHFA program fits and why. A general online description cannot establish eligibility because both program rules and mortgage underwriting apply. Obtain a document checklist early so missing tax returns, employment records or asset statements do not surface after you have found a home.
Complete education before it becomes urgent
CHFA sponsors homebuyer education in English and Spanish. Ask which course format is accepted for your loan and when the certificate must be complete. Treat the class as a chance to examine the full cost of ownership, not simply a form to collect. Prepare questions about budgeting, inspections, insurance and what happens if an unexpected expense arrives during your first year.
Compare two complete financing scenarios
Request the proposed CHFA loan and an alternative you actually qualify for, using the same home price and closing assumptions. Review monthly payment, cash required, interest rate, mortgage insurance and future repayment obligations. If assistance is a deferred second mortgage, ask for its balance and triggering events in a separate summary you can keep with the closing documents.
Carry the approved plan into the home search
The home must fit both your needs and the financing. Before offering, confirm property type, purchase amount and expected closing schedule with the lender. A buyer approved around one set of dues and taxes may need a revised calculation for a more expensive association or taxing district. Keep your housing search aligned with the complete payment rather than the headline price.
Your decision checklist
- Use CHFA’s participating-lender directory.
- Confirm the specific program name.
- Complete approved education on time.
- Compare the full loan package with alternatives.
- Recheck affordability for each property.
Common questions
Is CHFA only a down-payment grant?
No. CHFA’s homeownership resources include mortgage programs, education and assistance options. Ask which components are part of your proposed transaction.
Can I assume CHFA assistance has no repayment?
No. Grant and second-mortgage options differ. Read the documents for your exact program and ask what happens when you sell, refinance or stop occupying the home.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked for this guide on October 28, 2026. Reporting periods and effective dates are identified where relevant; linked agencies may update their pages.
- CHFA: Homeownership — 2026-10-28
Official source reviewed October 28, 2026; verify address-specific terms and subsequent updates.
- CHFA: Down payment assistance — 2026-10-28
Official source reviewed October 28, 2026; verify address-specific terms and subsequent updates.
- CFPB: Loan Estimate explainer — 2026-10-28
Official source reviewed October 28, 2026; verify address-specific terms and subsequent updates.
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