BREAKING BARRIERS TO HOMEOWNERSHIP

The Telluride Foundation is committed to expanding access to safe, affordable housing for the regional workforce. Thanks to the support of Foundation donors, local governments, and taxing districts, we are able to offer financial assistance to help qualified buyers purchase a home or secure a rental. If you would like to support these critical programs, please click the DONATE button anywhere on our website and designate your gift to the Housing Opportunity Fund – Down Payment Assistance. For more information, contact Elaine Demas at elaine@telluridefoundation.org.

Telluride Foundation Housing Assistance Programs

The Foundation offers three distinct programs for individuals living and working full-time in San Miguel & Ouray counties and the towns of Nucla, Naturita, and Rico. Eligibility is based on employment, income, net assets, and other criteria, with additional guidelines for each program. Applications must be approved before purchasing a home or signing a lease on a new rental.

For questions about eligibility or the application process, contact Elaine Demas at elaine@telluridefoundation.org.

How to Apply

Before applying, please read all of the information here on our website. All applicants must first complete a Housing Assistance Pre Qualification ‘HAPQ’ form to determine potential eligibility. Please review each program description, submit the HAPQ form, and wait for our response before proceeding with an application. You will find the HAPQ form at the bottom of this page.

Down Payment Assistance: Forgivable Loans

Best for homebuyers purchasing a Deed Restricted Home who need help with closing costs and prefer not to share in future home appreciation.

• Up to $5,000 in a forgivable loan
• Fully forgiven after two years of homeownership
• No repayment required if conditions are met

Down Payment Assistance: Shared Appreciation Loans

Best for homebuyers purchasing a Deed Restricted Home who need significant down payment assistance and are open to sharing future appreciation.

• Loans up to 20% of the home price (maximum $50,000, or $100,000 in San Miguel County)
• In Nucla/Naturita, the maximum loan is $30,000, and the home does not need to be Deed Restricted
• No monthly payments; repayment is due when the home is sold or refinanced
• Repayment includes a pro-rata share of the home’s appreciation

Rental Assistance: Security Deposit No-Interest Loans

Best for renters who need help covering the upfront cost of moving into a new rental home.

• Up to $2,500 in assistance, paid directly to the landlord for the security deposit
• 0% interest; loan must be repaid in full when the lease ends or upon move-out