Central Park Denver includes a selection of income qualified homes designed to help make homeownership more accessible within the neighborhood. These homes, sometimes called affordable housing, income-restricted homes, or income-qualified homes, are part of a program overseen by the City of Denver and the Denver Housing Authority. For buyers exploring homeownership in Central Park (formerly Stapleton), understanding the program requirements is an important first step.
Buyers who are new to the process may also find it helpful to review our Denver home buying process guide, which explains how financing, inspections, and closing work when purchasing a home.
Program Overview
When planning began for the redevelopment of the Stapleton airport into a vibrant residential neighborhood, the developer and the City decided that it was important to provide affordable housing for incoming residents.
To help accomplish this goal, approximately 10% of the homes in Central Park are included in the Income Qualified Housing program, subject to oversight by the Denver Housing Authority. Sales of new or resale homes in this program are subject to maximum income limits and debt-to-income ratios.
While there are restrictions on the purchase and resale of homes within the program, the benefits can be significant for buyers who qualify. Many buyers — and even some real estate agents and lenders — are unfamiliar with the requirements of the program. Fortunately, we have extensive experience helping buyers, sellers, and builders navigate the process.
These homes must be owner occupied, and price appreciation is subject to limits set by the City of Denver. A variety of home types are available within the program in Central Park, including condos, townhomes, and occasionally single-family homes, both new construction and resale.
Income Requirements
Affordable homes are also called income-qualified or income-restricted homes because they are intended for individuals or families whose gross (before-tax) annual income is at or below certain limits. Denver updates these limits regularly. Here are Denver's current affordable housing rules and income limits.
The City of Denver’s requirements take into account the total income of all household members who will live in the home, not just those responsible for the mortgage.
Debt-to-Income Rules
In addition to income limits, the City of Denver also sets debt-to-income guidelines to help ensure that buyers in the program spend no more than roughly 35% of household income on housing costs including the mortgage payment and HOA dues.
Primary Residence Requirement
Homes included in the program must be owner occupied. Rentals, including short-term rentals such as AirBnB or VRBO, are not permitted.
Mortgage Considerations
Your lender may have additional requirements related to income, debt, and credit, and not all lenders are familiar with the income-qualified housing program. We regularly work with lenders who understand the process and can help guide qualified buyers.
Ready to explore available properties? Browse the latest Central Park Denver homes for sale.
If you would like more information about qualifying for these homes, please contact Diana Kearns and we will be happy to help you understand the program and determine whether it may be a good fit for your situation.