FHA loans are the most popular entry-point loan program in Colorado — and 2026's county-by-county FHA limits reflect just how much Colorado's real estate values have climbed.
FHA Basics
- Minimum down: 3.5% (580+ credit) or 10% (500–579)
- Minimum credit score: 500
- MIP: 1.75% upfront + 0.55% annually (life of loan above 90% LTV on 30-year)
- Loan limits vary by county
2026 FHA Limits in Colorado
High-cost mountain counties: San Miguel, Eagle, Pitkin, Summit at $1,045,350; Routt and Boulder at $1,089,050.
Standard Front Range: Denver, Jefferson, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas at $833,750; El Paso (Colorado Springs) and Larimer (Fort Collins) at $832,750.
FHA floor counties: Pueblo at $541,287; most rural/eastern counties at $524,225 (national floor).
FHA vs. Conventional
FHA wins at 580–679 credit, limited cash for down payment, or up to 50% DTI. Conventional wins at 720+ credit, when you can put 20% down, and for long-term holds (PMI drops at 80% LTV vs. life-of-loan MIP). See our FHA vs. conventional comparison.
The FHA MIP Trap
Many Colorado buyers reach 80% LTV faster than expected thanks to appreciation. When you do, refinancing to conventional eliminates MIP. We proactively monitor and flag refinance windows.
CHFA + FHA Stack
CHFA FirstStep pairs FHA with down payment assistance (typically 3–4% of purchase). At Pueblo's $285K median, CHFA can cover the full 3.5% FHA down payment.
Get an FHA Quote
We close FHA loans across all 64 Colorado counties. Contact Tayton Capital or apply now.
📧 tj@taytoncapitalllc.com
📞 970-708-9624
Frequently asked questions
What is the FHA loan limit in Denver?
The 2026 FHA loan limit in Denver County is $833,750 for a single-family home. Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson, and Douglas County have similar limits.
How long does FHA mortgage insurance last?
On a 30-year FHA with under 10% down, MIP runs for the life of the loan. With 10%+ down, MIP runs 11 years. The only way to remove life-of-loan MIP is to refinance to conventional.
Can I use FHA to buy a condo in Colorado?
Yes — but the condo complex must be FHA-approved. We check FHA condo approval before you make an offer.
What credit score do I need for a 3.5% down FHA loan?
580 minimum credit score for 3.5% down. At 500–579, FHA requires 10% down. Most lenders require 580+ to issue the loan.
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