State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Colorado housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Colorado. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
30-year fixed-rate FHA loan with optional down payment assistance.
Conventional loan with DPA grant for buyers who don't qualify for FHA.
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Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $550,000 home: approximately $11,000
Colorado has no state real estate transfer tax. Some cities charge a small documentary fee, but overall closing costs are lower than many neighboring states.
Colorado is a title-company state. An attorney is not required, but many buyers in FSBO transactions hire one to review the contract and title work.
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Find an Inspector →While Colorado doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Colorado first-time buyers can access programs through the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) (https://www.chfainfo.com/), including the CHFA FirstStep (Below-market rates + DPA Grant of up to 3% of loan amount) and the CHFA SmartStep Plus (Up to 3% of loan amount as a grant — never repaid). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Colorado typically run 2% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: None (state); minor documentary fee in some cities. Colorado has no state real estate transfer tax. Some cities charge a small documentary fee, but overall closing costs are lower than many neighboring states.
Colorado is a title-company state. An attorney is not required, but many buyers in FSBO transactions hire one to review the contract and title work.
The median home price in Colorado is approximately $550,000. Property taxes average 0.5% of assessed value annually.
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