Financing & Pre-Approval

Understand your buying powerbefore you start your search.

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Why Pre-Approval Matters

Start strong, buy smoothly.

Getting pre-approved early helps you understand your true budget, strengthens your position when making offers, and allows you to move more confidently when the right home becomes available.

Our team works closely with trusted local lenders who can help buyers explore financing options, compare loan programs, and prepare for every stage of the process.

Understand your realistic budget
Strengthen your offer position
Identify the right loan programs
Prepare documentation early
Reduce delays during closing

Start the Pre-Approval Process Mortgage Calculator

Loan Options in Colorado

Find the loan thatfits your move.

Every buyer’s situation is different. Hover over each option — or tap it on your phone — to see who it’s built for and what to expect.

Conventional
Best for Steady income & solid credit
Down payment3%+
Credit score620+
Conventional
- Best for buyers with steady income and solid credit, typically 620 or higher.
- Private mortgage insurance applies under 20% down and can be removed once you build enough equity.
- Works for primary homes, second homes, and investment properties.
FHA
Best for First-time buyers & flexible credit
Down payment3.5%+
Credit score580+
FHA
- Government-insured, with more flexible credit and debt guidelines.
- Includes an upfront and a monthly mortgage insurance premium.
- Loan limits are set by county — El Paso County’s limit is updated every year.
VA
Best for Veterans & service members
Down payment$0
Mortgage ins.None
VA
- For eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses — a big part of life near Fort Carson, the Air Force Academy, Peterson, and Schriever.
- No monthly mortgage insurance. A one-time VA funding fee applies, waived for many veterans with a service-connected disability.
- You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility, which a lender can help you request.
USDA
Best for Homes in eligible rural areas
Down payment$0
LocationRural
USDA
- For homes in USDA-designated rural areas, which can include communities on the outskirts of El Paso County.
- Household income limits apply, so eligibility depends on both the home and the buyer.
- Includes an upfront guarantee fee and a small annual fee. Check the USDA eligibility map before you fall in love with a home.
CHFA
Best for Colorado down payment help
AssistanceUp to $25K
Credit score620+
CHFA
- Colorado Housing and Finance Authority programs pair with an FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgage.
- Choose a grant of up to 3% of your loan that never has to be repaid, or a deferred 0% second mortgage of up to 4% — each capped at $25,000.
- Open to first-time and repeat buyers. Income limits, a 620+ credit score, and a homebuyer education class apply.
Jumbo
Best for Higher-priced homes
Loan sizeAbove limit
CreditStronger
Jumbo
- For loan amounts above the conforming limit — common in neighborhoods like the Broadmoor and Flying Horse.
- Usually calls for stronger credit, a larger down payment, and more cash reserves.
- Rates and terms vary more from lender to lender, so comparing options matters.

Guidelines, limits, and assistance amounts change and depend on your situation. A licensed lender can confirm which programs you qualify for today.

Connect With a Lender

Financing Questions

Your questions, answered.

Minimum credit score requirements depend on the loan program you choose. FHA loans may allow lower scores, while conventional loans typically require stronger credit. Many buyers are surprised to learn they may qualify sooner than expected.
Down payment amounts vary based on your loan type and financial goals. Some programs allow qualified buyers to purchase with significantly lower upfront costs than many people expect, including options designed specifically for first-time buyers and veterans.
Most lenders will request recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, employment verification, and identification. Having these documents prepared early can help create a smoother financing process.
Your monthly payment may include principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, HOA fees, and maintenance costs. Understanding the full picture early helps buyers plan more confidently.
Many buyers qualify for first-time buyer programs even if they’ve owned a home in the past. Eligibility depends on several factors, including how long it’s been since ownership and the type of loan or assistance program available.
In many cases, pre-approval can be completed within a few days once your documents are submitted. More complex financial situations may take additional time, but getting started early helps avoid delays later in the process.

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Guidance Beyond the Numbers

Finance for the long run.

The right financing strategy should support both your current goals and your future plans. Our team helps buyers understand the full picture so they can move forward with clarity, realistic expectations, and trusted guidance from start to finish.

Connect With a Lender

Understand your buying powerbefore you start your search.

Start strong, buy smoothly.

Find the loan thatfits your move.

Conventional

Conventional

FHA

FHA

VA

VA

USDA

USDA

CHFA

CHFA

Jumbo

Jumbo

Your questions, answered.

Finance for the long run.

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