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First-time home buyer agent in Fort Collins: how we help
Looking for a first-time home buyer agent in Fort Collins? REALTOR® Brian Lee Burke and The Kenna Group’s real estate agents at Keller Williams DTC walk first-time buyers through every step: we check your credit and down payment plan before any lender call, match you with CHFA or other down payment help, set daily alerts for Fort Collins homes that fit the program, show them, write and negotiate your offer, and run inspection, appraisal and closing. Call or text 303-955-4220. A live person answers.
Fort Collins Realtors & real estate agents · Fort Collins homes for sale · CHFA down payment assistance
What your first-time buyer’s agent does in Fort Collins
- Qualify first: credit score, income and cash to close, so you know which programs fit before you talk to a lender.
- Line up the money: CHFA, metroDPA or the NoCo Foundation program, with a lender that offers it.
- Find the homes: daily alerts for Fort Collins condos, townhomes and houses in your price range, plus HOA and water-district checks.
- Write the offer: the Colorado contract, the deadlines and the negotiation.
- Protect you after contract: inspection (radon included), appraisal, title and closing.
Fort Collins homes for first-time buyers, as of Oct 25, 2026
169
listed at $400K or less
217
listed at $450K or less
296
listed at $500K or less
$565K
median sold price, past 12 months
692 homes were for sale in Fort Collins on Oct 25, 2026, and the median asking price was about $540,000. At $400,000 or less, 121 of the 169 listings were condos, 18 townhomes and 22 houses, so most first homes here start as a condo or townhome. Over the past 12 months 2,418 Fort Collins homes sold at a median of $565,000, at a median 100% of list price. The homes-under-$400K grid on this page updates daily.
Down payment help for Fort Collins buyers, checked Oct 25, 2026
| Program | What you get | Key rules |
|---|---|---|
| CHFA (Colorado Housing and Finance Authority) | A grant of up to 3% of the first mortgage, or a second mortgage of up to 4%, either one capped at $25,000 | Use with a CHFA first mortgage; 620 credit score; at least $1,000 of your own money; homebuyer education; county income and price limits |
| NoCo Foundation down payment assistance (through Impact Development Fund) | Up to 15% of the purchase price, no monthly payment | Larimer and Weld counties; price up to $650,000; income at or below 120% of area median; you cannot own other property; repaid with a share of appreciation when you sell, refinance or pay off |
| metroDPA | A 0% second mortgage with no monthly payment, 30-year term | 620 credit score; household income under $210,150; listed by the City of Fort Collins as a program serving the city |
- City of Fort Collins: the city no longer makes its own homebuyer loans. Its housing page sends buyers to CHFA, Impact Development Fund and metroDPA. If you already have a city Homebuyer Assistance loan, the city handles payoffs and subordinations by email at [email protected].
- Larimer County: the county does not lend directly; buyers use the regional programs above.
- Homebuyer class: Neighbor to Neighbor in Fort Collins teaches the homebuyer education class the city recommends.
- Permanently affordable homes: Elevation Community Land Trust sells income-qualified homes with resale limits.
The credit rule we use before anyone calls a lender
- 620 or higher: down payment assistance is on the table. Next step is a pre-approval.
- 580 to 619: an FHA loan can work with your own 3.5% down payment saved. Assistance programs start at 620.
- Under 580, or not sure: start with our Kenna Credit Care program and pull your free reports at annualcreditreport.com. We call you back when the score is ready.
Many of our buyers use Mike Oswald at Rate and trust him. We are not affiliated, you can use any lender you choose, and we receive nothing for the introduction. Run the numbers with the Colorado mortgage calculator.
The full guide from our original post follows: programs, rent-to-own and the buying steps.
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and if you're considering Fort Collins, Colorado, as your new hometown, you've made an excellent choice. Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins offers a vibrant community and a thriving job market. As a first-time homebuyer, you may question down payment assistance, rent-to-own programs, and home-buying.
1. Down Payment Assistance Programs:
Saving for a down payment can be one of the biggest obstacles for first-time homebuyers. Fortunately, there are several programs in Fort Collins and Colorado as a whole that can help you overcome this challenge:
- Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA): the state agency. A grant of up to 3% of the first mortgage or a second mortgage of up to 4%, capped at $25,000, with a CHFA first mortgage and a 620 credit score.
- NoCo Foundation program through Impact Development Fund: up to 15% of the price for Larimer and Weld county buyers, repaid with a share of appreciation; price limit $650,000.
- metroDPA: a 0% second mortgage with no monthly payment; 620 credit score.
- City of Fort Collins (update, Oct 25, 2026): the city’s own Home Buyer Assistance loans have ended; the city now refers buyers to the programs above. Details are in the table at the top of this guide.
When considering these programs, it's crucial to research and understand their specific requirements, including income limits, credit score requirements, and the application process. Consulting with a local housing counselor or lender familiar with Fort Collins can help you identify the right program for your needs.
Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text The Kenna Group at Keller Williams DTC at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
2. Rent-to-Own Programs:
Rent-to-own programs can be an attractive option for those not ready for traditional homeownership.
- How Rent-to-Own Works: In a rent-to-own agreement, you'll typically rent a home with the option to purchase it at a predetermined price after a specified period, often 1-5 years. Text us for more information at 303-955-4220
- Benefits: Rent-to-own arrangements allow you to live in a home you're interested in buying while giving you time to improve your credit score and save for a down payment. It also provides an opportunity to evaluate the property and neighborhood before committing to the purchase.
- Considerations: Before entering a rent-to-own agreement, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions. Consider having a real estate attorney review the contract to ensure it's fair and protects your interests. Additionally, be aware that if you decide not to exercise your buying option, you may forfeit the accumulated rent credits.
3. The Home-Buying Process:
Navigating the home-buying process can seem complex, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make it more approachable.
Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text The Kenna Group at Keller Williams DTC at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
- Get Pre-Approved: Work with a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This involves a thorough financial assessment to determine the loan amount you qualify for. Pre-approval helps you understand your budget and demonstrates to sellers that you're a serious and capable buyer.
- Hire a Realtor: A local Realtor with experience in the Fort Collins market can be a tremendous asset. They will help you find suitable properties, schedule viewings, and negotiate offers on your behalf. Their local knowledge is invaluable in identifying neighborhoods that align with your preferences and budget.
- House Hunting: With the guidance of your Realtor, start your house-hunting journey. Consider location, amenities, and proximity to your workplace when evaluating potential homes.
- Make an Offer: When you find a home you love, your Realtor will assist you in making a formal offer. This offer includes the proposed purchase price, contingencies, and other terms. Negotiations between you and the seller may occur until both parties agree on the terms.
- Inspections and Appraisal: Once your offer is accepted, you'll conduct inspections to assess the home's condition. Inspectors will examine various aspects of the property, including its structure, systems (such as HVAC and plumbing), and any potential issues. Additionally, a home appraisal will determine the property's fair market value. These steps provide essential information and can influence negotiations or your decision to proceed with the purchase.
- Closing: The closing is the final step in the home-buying process. During this meeting, you'll review and sign all the necessary documents, pay any remaining closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home. It's a significant milestone, marking the transition from buyer to homeowner.
Ready to find your dream home in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text The Kenna Group at Keller Williams DTC at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
Conclusion:
Buying your first home in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a journey that requires careful planning and consideration. Down payment assistance programs, rent-to-own options, and a clear understanding of the home-buying process are essential components to ensure a successful and satisfying experience.
As you embark on this adventure, remember that local experts, such as The Kenna Group's Agents, lenders, and housing counselors, are here to support you. Their knowledge of the Fort Collins real estate market and the available resources can help you make informed decisions and achieve your goal of becoming a homeowner in this beautiful and vibrant Colorado city. Fort Collins welcomes you with open arms to a place you can soon call home!
