If you live in the Denver metro area and mortgage payments are getting harder to manage, you are not alone. The good news is there are several mortgage assistance paths available locally and at the state and federal level.
This blog explains what those options look like, how they differ, and the practical pros and cons so you can take action quickly and confidently.
Recent picture of the market
- Metro Denver has shifted toward a buyer-friendly market recently because inventory has increased, but median sale prices remain elevated, putting pressure on affordability (source).
- The federal Homeowner Assistance Fund has been used nationwide to prevent foreclosures, and Colorado and local Denver programs have leveraged those funds to provide emergency mortgage relief and related support (source).
- The City and County of Denver runs targeted programs such as down payment assistance and foreclosure prevention resources tailored to area income limits and eligibility rules (source).
What “mortgage assistance” includes
Mortgage assistance covers different services and financial tools. Below are the main categories you will encounter:
- Direct financial assistance and grants for missed mortgage payments or taxes.
- Forbearance agreements and repayment plans negotiated with a mortgage servicer.
- Loan modification or refinance options to lower monthly payments.
- Counseling and legal help for foreclosure prevention and negotiation.
- Purchase assistance for buyers, such as down payment programs.
Which programs are available to Denver metro homeowners
Here are the primary programs and routes homeowners typically use in the Denver area:
- Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) and state/local implementations.
The Treasury HAF program provided billions to states to help homeowners who fell behind, and Colorado has used HAF money to support mortgage, tax, and homeowner insurance payments where eligible (source).
- City of Denver programs.
The city offers programs such as metroDPA for buyers and a foreclosure financial assistance program with income guidelines and application processes specifically for Denver County residents (source).
- Colorado Housing and Finance Authority and Department of Local Affairs resources.
CHFA links homeowners to HUD-approved counselors and statewide assistance. The Department of Local Affairs has been a central portal for applying for pandemic-era homeowner assistance in Colorado (source).
- HUD and HUD-certified counseling.
Mortgage counseling is available through HUD-approved agencies and is often a required step for some assistance programs (source).
Quick eligibility snapshot
Eligibility depends on the program, but common factors include:
| Program type | Typical income limit or condition | What it can cover |
| HAF-funded programs | Up to 150% of Area Median Income for many HAF subprograms | Past-due mortgage, property taxes, insurance, HOA dues, and utilities. |
| Denver foreclosure assistance | Often 80% of the area median income for Denver County in city programs | Short-term mortgage payment help, payment plans, and legal referrals. |
| metroDPA down payment assistance | Income limits vary by household size, e.g., up to around $210,150 in some cases | Down payment and loan assistance for qualified buyers. |
| Counseling programs | No income limit for counseling, but it is recommended to access other programs | Budgeting, foreclosure negotiation, and loss mitigation. |
Pros and cons of common mortgage assistance options
Below is a practical comparison to help you decide which route to pursue.
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best if you are |
| HAF or state/local grant assistance | Can reduce or eliminate arrears, cover taxes or insurance, not always repayable | Funds are limited and some programs have closed when funds depleted; documentation heavy | Behind on payments due to financial hardship tied to pandemic or another covered reason |
| Forbearance with lender | Immediate suspension or reduction of payments preserves your home while you recover | Interest can continue to accrue, and missed payments must be repaid later; needs clear repayment plan | Facing short-term loss of income but expect recovery within months |
| Loan modification | Can lower monthly payments long-term | Harder to qualify, may affect credit reporting, paperwork intensive | Long-term income drop or need for permanent payment reduction |
| Refinance | May secure a lower interest rate if credit and equity permit | Closing costs, may be hard with high current rates or reduced equity | You have sufficient equity and qualify for better terms |
| Down payment assistance (metroDPA) | Lowers barrier to buying, structured to keep buyer local | Not emergency mortgage aid; eligibility limits apply | You are buying and need help with down payment and closing costs |
| HUD-certified counseling | Free or low-cost guidance, helps with applications and legal info | Counseling does not provide funds by itself | You need guidance to decide and to prepare documentation |
Comparing real services you might hire from a local mortgage assistance provider
If you are exploring mortgage assistance or guidance in the Denver metro area, you will find a mix of nonprofits, legal services, and private companies offering help. However, the quality, cost, and reliability can vary widely. Below is a practical look at the most common service types, followed by how The Action Jackson Group stands apart as a trusted real estate and mortgage guidance partner.
How Different Service Providers Compare
| Service type | What they do | Fees | Red flags to watch for |
| Nonprofit housing counselor | Provides general counseling, application guidance, and referrals for Colorado homeowners | Usually free or low cost | None usually, but always verify HUD-certified status |
| Local mortgage assistance firm | Helps prepare documents, negotiates with servicers, and monitors application timelines | Fees vary, so request clear rates and deliverables | Any firm requesting large upfront fees to “access” government grants should be avoided |
| Attorney (foreclosure defense) | Handles legal negotiations and represents homeowners in foreclosure cases | Hourly or flat fees that can be more expensive | Attorneys who promise guaranteed foreclosure stops without evidence are a concern |
| Loan modification company | Coordinates modification requests with mortgage servicers | Some charge fees; ensure they are not charging for services your lender provides for free | Companies asking for large retainers before any work begins |
Where The Action Jackson Group Fits In
The Action Jackson Group is different from typical mortgage assistance or modification companies. With Lori’s professional banking background, the team offers insider-level clarity on mortgage products, financing strategies, and lender requirements. Instead of charging high processing fees or making unrealistic promises, the group provides trusted guidance, transparent support, and high-quality referrals to vetted mortgage professionals.
Here is what sets The Action Jackson Group apart:
- Expert Mortgage Insight Backed by Banking Experience: Lori’s background helps homeowners and buyers understand which mortgage structures work best for their financial goals, income, and credit profile.
- Trusted Network of Local Mortgage Professionals: Instead of leaving you to gamble on unfamiliar lenders or assistance companies, the team directly connects you with reputable Denver-area mortgage partners who prioritize client outcomes.
- No Predatory Fees or “Too Good to Be True” Claims: The Action Jackson Group does not charge large upfront fees or promise shortcut solutions. Guidance is built on transparency and established banking knowledge.
- Support for Both Homeowners and First-Time Buyers: Whether you are navigating mortgage trouble or trying to secure competitive financing for a new home, the group offers personalized assistance and referrals tailored to your situation.
- Real Estate Expertise Paired With Mortgage Strategy: Understanding both sides of the equation helps clients make smart decisions, whether buying, refinancing, or restructuring their mortgage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if I qualify for mortgage assistance?
Eligibility depends on income, hardship, and your lender’s guidelines. Most programs require proof of financial difficulty, recent income changes, or rising housing costs. Checking requirements early helps you avoid delays.
- Will mortgage assistance affect my credit score?
Some options, like loan modifications, may impact credit depending on how the lender reports them. Others, such as counseling or temporary relief programs, rarely affect credit.
- Can I request mortgage assistance even if I am not behind on payments?
Yes. Many lenders encourage homeowners to reach out as soon as they anticipate trouble. Early communication often leads to more flexible options.
Wrapping up and next steps
Finding the right mortgage assistance can feel overwhelming, but homeowners have strong options when they work with a trusted local guide. The Action Jackson Group understands the challenges many families face and uses its banking and real estate expertise to connect clients with reliable Denver Metro mortgage assistance that actually fits their needs.
Homeowners ready to explore real solutions can contact The Action Jackson Group today to get personalized help and move forward with confidence.
