Down payment assistance (DPA) programs are state-run initiatives designed to help homebuyers cover their down payment and sometimes closing costs. Most people don't know these programs exist — and that's a problem, because they can save you thousands.
💡 Think You Might Qualify?
Most people leave money on the table because they didn't know to ask. Whether you're in Colorado or Wisconsin, a five-minute conversation is all it takes to find out if DPA can work for you. No cost, no obligation.
🚀 Check If You Qualify
✅ Got It!
Triston will review your DPA options and reach out within 24 hours — usually much sooner.
CHFA FirstStep
The flagship CHFA program. Provides a below-market interest rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage, plus down payment assistance as a second mortgage.
- Up to 3% of the first mortgage amount as DPA
- Second mortgage at 0% interest, deferred payments
- Available for FHA, VA, and conventional first mortgages
- Income limits vary by county and household size
CHFA FirstStep Plus
Same structure as FirstStep, but with a higher assistance amount for buyers who need more help getting to closing.
- Up to 4% of the first mortgage amount as DPA
- Slightly higher interest rate than standard FirstStep
- Great for buyers with limited savings
CHFA Grant
A true grant that does not have to be repaid. This is free money toward your down payment or closing costs.
- Grant amount varies by program year
- No second mortgage, no repayment
- Can be combined with CHFA's below-market rate
WHEDA Advantage Conventional
A conventional mortgage with competitive rates, paired with WHEDA's down payment assistance for qualifying buyers.
- Up to 6% of the purchase price for DPA + closing costs
- Second mortgage with low or deferred payments
- Income and purchase price limits by county
WHEDA Advantage FHA
FHA financing combined with WHEDA's down payment and closing cost assistance. Great for buyers who need credit flexibility.
- FHA's lower credit requirements + WHEDA assistance
- Up to 6% toward down payment and closing costs
- 30-year fixed rate
Capital Access / Easy Close Advantage
Additional WHEDA programs that provide closing cost assistance on top of the Advantage products. Ask me about current availability and eligibility.
- Can further reduce out-of-pocket costs
- Available in conjunction with Advantage products
- Program availability changes — I stay current on what's active
💬 Want to Know Which Program Fits?
✅ On It!
Triston will review the programs available to you and reach out within 24 hours.
Down payment assistance doesn't replace your mortgage — it layers on top of it. Here's how different loan types combine with DPA:
🎖 VA Loan + DPA
VA already offers $0 down. Stack DPA on top to cover closing costs, and you could walk into your new home with almost nothing out of pocket. If you have a VA disability rating, the funding fee is waived too — making this the most powerful combo available.
🏠 FHA + DPA
FHA requires 3.5% down, but CHFA and WHEDA can cover that entirely. Add seller concessions for closing costs, and your out-of-pocket can be close to zero. FHA also has more flexible credit requirements — great for buyers rebuilding credit.
📈 Conventional + DPA
Conventional loans go as low as 3% down. DPA can cover part or all of it. Conventional also drops PMI once you hit 20% equity (unlike FHA's permanent MIP). For buyers with good credit, this can be the best long-term value.
| Without DPA | With DPA | |
|---|---|---|
| FHA Down Payment (3.5%) | $12,250 out of pocket | $0 — covered by DPA |
| Closing Costs (~3%) | $10,500 out of pocket | $0–$4,000 (seller concessions + DPA) |
| Total Cash Needed | ~$22,750 | $0–$4,000 |
| Savings | — | $18,000+ |
🌟 Ready to See Your Options?
Every situation is different. I'll look at your income, location, credit, and goals — then tell you exactly which programs you qualify for and which combo saves you the most. No cost. No obligation. Just real numbers.
🚀 Let's Run Your Numbers
✅ Let's Go!
Triston will review your situation and reach out within 24 hours with your DPA options.