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DSCR Loans in Colorado: A Comprehensive Guide for Real Estate Investors 

A DSCR loan in Colorado allows real estate investors to qualify for financing based on a property’s rental income rather than personal income or employment history. Learn how DSCR loans work, what it takes to qualify, and the best places to invest in Colorado’s thriving real estate markets.

DSCR Loans in Colorado: A Comprehensive Guide for Real Estate Investors 
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Editorial Integrity

Making sound real estate investment decisions begins with reliable, data-driven insights. At Ziffy.ai, we offer an AI-powered investment property search platform, proprietary data-driven trend analysis, investment mortgage programs like DSCR loans, and a network of over 500 investor-friendly real estate agents to deliver the expertise needed for informed decisions. Our content is crafted by experienced real estate professionals and backed by real-time market data, ensuring you receive accurate and actionable information. Through a rigorous editorial process, we strive to empower your investment journey with trustworthy and up-to-date guidance.

Colorado is known for its breathtaking mountain views, world-class skiing, and 300 days of sunshine each year. From the energy of Denver to the laid-back charm of Colorado Springs, the state offers an unmatched blend of outdoor lifestyle, cultural appeal, and strong investment potential. 

In recent years, Colorado’s housing market has seen consistent rent growth driven by population inflow, job creation, and limited supply. Cities like Fort Collins and Boulder attract stable long-term tenants, while resort towns such as Breckenridge and Aspen thrive on year-round tourism and high rental yields. 

With Ziffy, investors can find high-performing properties and secure DSCR loans that focus solely on property income. Whether you’re financing a mountain cabin, a multifamily in Denver, or a short-term rental near ski country, Ziffy makes the process seamless and built around your goals. 

Key Takeaways

1. Ziffy’s DSCR loans in Colorado let investors qualify based on property rental income rather than personal financials, offering a simpler and faster path to real estate financing.

2. With no personal income verification or DTI limits, Ziffy’s DSCR loans give investors the flexibility to fund multiple properties.

3. Colorado’s mix of metro growth and tourism-driven markets creates consistent rental demand, steady appreciation, and diverse opportunities for both new and seasoned investors.

4. Ziffy helps investors every step of the way from identifying high-performing properties to securing tailored financing that aligns with your cash-flow goals.

What is a DSCR Loan? 

A Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan allows real estate investors to qualify based on a property’s rental income rather than personal income or employment history. Unlike traditional loans, we focuses on the property’s cash flow, not the borrower’s DTI ratio, tax returns, or pay stubs, making it easier to qualify and scale your portfolio. 

One of our clients, Mark Thompson, a small business owner, wanted to purchase a single-family rental in Colorado Springs but faced challenges with traditional financing due to a high DTI ratio. After connecting with Ziffy, our team helped him secure a DSCR loan based solely on the property’s rental income. Within a few weeks, Mark closed successfully and started earning a steady monthly cash flow. 

DSCR loans are designed for investors who want flexibility and growth without the limitations of personal income verification.  

How to Calculate the DSCR Ratio?

The Debt-Service Coverage Ratio is used to determine if a property’s rental income is sufficient to cover its mortgage payments. A higher DSCR makes it easier for investors to secure financing.  

Here is the DSCR Formula: 

DSCR = Gross Rental Income / PITIA     

Example

Calculating the DSCR Ratio for a Colorado Property:

Avg. Home Price in Colorado: $535,778
Down payment: 20%
Loan Term: 30 Years
Interest Rate: 6.2%
Monthly Mortgage Payment (PITIA): $1,730
Avg. Rent: $2,160
DSCR: $2,160 ÷ $1,730
DSCR: 1.24 (Lender-Approved Ratio)
Monthly Positive Cash Flow: 430
Colorado state view

A DSCR of 1.24 indicates strong positive cash flow, meaning the property earns 24% more income than required to cover its debt, a solid indicator of financial health and stability. 

At Ziffy, a DSCR of 1.0 or higher typically qualifies for the most favorable terms as it shows the rental income can fully cover the mortgage payment each month. 

However, we understand that not every property’s rental income will meet this threshold, which is why Ziffy also offers a No-Ratio DSCR Program for properties with a DSCR between 0 and 1. With the No-Ratio program, you can still secure financing, although it may require a slightly larger down payment and additional reserves to mitigate the risk. 

DSCR Loan Requirements in Colorado 

Unlike traditional lenders, Ziffy simplifies the DSCR loan process with a streamlined approach designed specifically for real estate investors. 

Whether you’re buying your first rental property or expanding an existing portfolio, our flexible terms, minimal documentation requirements, and fast approvals make it easier than ever to secure investment properties across Colorado. 

Here’s how our lending criteria compare to conventional lenders when it comes to DSCR loans: 

Feature 

Ziffy Mortgage DSCR Loan 

Traditional Mortgage 

Approval Based On 

Property’s rental income (DSCR) 

Your personal income, W-2s, and DTI 

Tax Returns Required 

Not required 

Typically required for 2 years 

Employment Verification 

Not needed  

Always required 

DTI (Debt-to-Income) 

Not considered 

Key approval factor 

Entity Type 

Ideal for LLCs and business use 

Personal use only 

Speed of Approval 

Faster, fewer documents 

Slower due to full underwriting 

Investor Flexibility 

High; scale faster, even with multiple properties   

Low; limited by income and property count   

With years of experience and deep market insight, Ziffy has helped investors across Colorado identify high-performing properties and secure financing that aligns with their goals. Ziffy’s AI-driven investment property search helps analyze potential rentals, evaluate DSCR performance, and match investors with the right funding solutions quickly and efficiently. 

Where We Lend DSCR Loans in Colorado 

From urban multifamily units in Denver to short-term vacation homes in Breckenridge, we provide DSCR loans across Colorado. 

Here are a few cities where we provide DSCR loans: 

  • Denver
  • Colorado Springs
  • Aurora
  • Fort Collins
  • Boulder
  • Thornton
  • Pueblo
  • Westminster
  • Woodland Park
  • Jefferson
  • Centennial
  • Guffey
  • Lakewood
  • Grand Junction

Case Study: Expanding a Portfolio in Colorado Springs 

Daniel Rivera, an experienced investor from Arizona, was searching for a property in Colorado Springs but couldn’t qualify for a traditional mortgage because of a high DTI ratio. 

We helped Daniel identify a high-performing duplex near Peterson Space Force Base, analyze its rental income, and secure a DSCR loan based solely on the property’s cash flow. Within four weeks, he closed and began earning positive returns.

Loan Details: 

  • Loan Amount: $348,000 
  • Down Payment: $87,000 (20%) 
  • Loan Term: 30 years fixed 
  • Monthly Rent: $2,300 
  • DSCR: 1.32 

Why This Worked for Daniel: 

  • No Personal DTI Verification: Approval was based entirely on the property’s income. 
  • Hands-On Support from Ziffy: Our team helped him find, analyze, and finance a property that matched his goals. 
  • Immediate Cash Flow: The property generated strong returns from day one.
Jason Saylor,

Jason Saylor,

Sr. Customer Loan Specialist, Ziffy Mortgages

“With years of experience helping investors finance properties across Colorado, we’ve seen how DSCR loans open doors that traditional lending often closes. By focusing on the property’s income instead of personal paperwork, investors can move faster, scale confidently, and take advantage of opportunities that others might miss. ”

Top Places to Invest in Colorado with a DSCR Loan 

Colorado’s real estate market offers a strong balance of cash flow potential and long-term appreciation. From high-demand metros to tourism-driven towns, investors can find opportunities that match a variety of rental strategies. 

Whether you’re targeting short-term vacation homes or long-term multifamily properties, the state’s diverse economy and steady population growth support consistent returns. 

Here are some of the top cities in Colorado for real estate investors using a DSCR loan: 

City 

Rental Type

Rental Yield 

Woodland Park

Short-term

9.5% 

Colorado Springs 

Short-term 

9.4% 

Pueblo 

Long-term 

5.7%

Aurora 

Long-term 

4.6% 

Thornton 

Long-term 

4.6%

Woodland Park: Growing Vacation Market with Affordable Entry 

Located near Colorado Springs, Woodland Park is gaining traction as an affordable alternative to major resort towns. Its scenic mountain views and increasing tourist activity make it ideal for short-term rental investors. 

  • Average Median Home Price: $539,604 
  • Average Rent: $1,914 

What this means for investors: Lower property prices and rising tourism make Woodland Park a high-yield, accessible short-term rental market. 

Investment Properties Listed Today for Sale in Woodland Park, CO 

Property
Single Family for sale in Woodland Park, CO
$344,900
24.8% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,497/mo
Cash Flow:
$487/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Woodland Park, CO
$450,000
25.6% ROI
Rental Income:
$3,360/mo
Cash Flow:
$737/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Woodland Park, CO
$450,000
25.6% ROI
Rental Income:
$3,360/mo
Cash Flow:
$737/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details

Colorado Springs: Consistent Cash Flow and High Rental Demand 

Colorado Springs benefits from a strong military presence, expanding job market, and continuous population growth, supporting both long-term and short-term rental demand. 

  • Median Home Price: $446,875 
  • Average Rent: $1,717 

What this means for investors: Reliable tenants and balanced rent-to-price ratios make Colorado Springs a stable, income-generating investment hub. 

Investment Properties Listed Today for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO

Property
Single Family for sale in Colorado Springs, CO
$430,000
30.1% ROI
Rental Income:
$3,750/mo
Cash Flow:
$1,244/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Colorado Springs, CO
$365,000
24.2% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,580/mo
Cash Flow:
$453/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Colorado Springs, CO
$440,000
20.6% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,674/mo
Cash Flow:
$109/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details

Pueblo: Affordable Long-Term Investment Opportunity 

Pueblo offers some of the most affordable housing in Colorado, making it a solid market for investors seeking dependable long-term returns. 

  • Median Home Price: $284,466 
  • Average Rent: $1,359 

What this means for investors: Low entry costs and consistent rental demand help investors maintain strong DSCR performance and steady cash flow. 

Investment Properties Listed Today for Sale in Pueblo, CO

Property
Single Family for sale in Pueblo, CO
$395,000
19.8% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,304/mo
Cash Flow:
$2/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Pueblo, CO
$387,750
22.9% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,605/mo
Cash Flow:
$335/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Multi Family for sale in Pueblo, CO
$335,000
23.3% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,280/mo
Cash Flow:
$328/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details

Aurora: Expanding Suburban Market with Steady Growth 

As part of the greater Denver metro area, Aurora combines suburban living with access to a strong job market and growing infrastructure. 

  • Median Home Price: $458,902 
  • Average Rent: $1,775 

What this means for investors: Increasing population and proximity to Denver create ongoing rental demand and long-term appreciation potential. 

Investment Properties Listed Today for Sale in Aurora, CO

Property
Condo for sale in Aurora, CO
$289,000
20.3% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,040/mo
Cash Flow:
$46/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Townhouse for sale in Aurora, CO
$385,000
20.0% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,699/mo
Cash Flow:
$30/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Condo for sale in Aurora, CO
$255,000
20.5% ROI
Rental Income:
$2,082/mo
Cash Flow:
$51/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details

Thornton: Metro Suburb with Reliable Returns

Located just outside Denver, Thornton is a commuter-friendly suburb that’s growing fast. With its newer developments, good schools, and easy highway access, it appeals to renters who want space and proximity to employment opportunities.

  • Median Home Price: $520,000
  • Average Rent: $2,675/month

What this means for investors: Thornton gives DSCR investors long-term stability. Its solid rent-to-price ratio supports sustainable cash flow, especially for international buyers without local credit or tax documents. It is an excellent pick for those seeking steady appreciation and rental income.

Investment Properties Listed Today for Sale in Thornton, CO

Property
Condo for sale in Thornton, CO
$230,000
20.8% ROI
Rental Income:
$1,798/mo
Cash Flow:
$67/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Single Family for sale in Thornton, CO
$519,888
21.7% ROI
Rental Income:
$3,259/mo
Cash Flow:
$229/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details
Property
Townhouse for sale in Thornton, CO
$389,900
23.2% ROI
Rental Income:
$3,119/mo
Cash Flow:
$372/mo
DSCR Loan Available
Details

Specific Considerations for Investing in Colorado 

Colorado offers a wide range of real estate opportunities, from urban multifamily properties in Denver to short-term rentals in the Rockies. But like any market, success depends on understanding local regulations, climate factors, and economic dynamics that shape investment performance. 

  1. Short-Term Rental Licensing 

Cities such as Breckenridge and Vail have strict short-term rental rules that may limit the number of permitted properties or require specific licenses. Investors should review these regulations carefully before purchasing in tourism-heavy zones. 

  1. Seasonal Maintenance 

Colorado’s cold winters and heavy snowfall can affect maintenance budgets, especially for properties at higher elevations. Investors should plan for snow removal, heating system upkeep, and potential roof or insulation expenses. 

  1. Market Competition and Pricing Trends 

High-demand areas like Denver and Boulder experience strong buyer competition and rising prices. Investors seeking higher yields might explore emerging secondary markets such as Pueblo, Greeley, and Grand Junction. 

  1. Property Taxes 

Colorado’s property taxes are relatively low compared to many states, but they vary significantly between counties. Metro areas like Denver and Boulder tend to have higher assessments, while southern and mountain regions offer more favorable rates. 

Strategic & Future Considerations for Investors 

Colorado’s real estate market continues to evolve, supported by population growth, job creation, and migration from high-cost states. For investors, understanding long-term economic shifts and infrastructure development is key to capturing sustainable returns. 

  1. Population and Job Growth: Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins continue to attract new residents due to expanding job opportunities, creating steady rental demand across housing types. 
  1. Expansion of Technology and Aerospace Industries: Colorado’s growing tech, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors are generating high-income jobs that support long-term rental and homeownership demand statewide. 
  1. Infrastructure and Transit Improvements: Major projects such as Denver’s RTD rail expansion and highway upgrades across I-25 and I-70 corridors are improving accessibility and boosting property values in connected areas. 
  1. Green Building and Energy Codes: Colorado has adopted progressive green building and energy-efficiency standards, particularly in cities like Denver and Boulder. Investors planning renovations or new constructions should factor in these requirements, as they can influence upfront costs but also improve long-term energy savings and property value. 

Get a Ziffy DSCR Loan in Colorado Today 

Securing financing for your investment property in Colorado is simple with Ziffy. Our DSCR loans are built specifically for real estate investors, offering flexible terms, competitive rates, and a streamlined approval process. 

Ziffy simplifies the investment journey from start to finish. With our AI-driven investment property search, you can explore high-performing opportunities across Colorado, evaluate rental potential, and apply for financing all in one place. Our experienced loan specialists work closely with you to ensure every deal aligns with your cash flow goals and long-term investment strategy. 

Already own a rental property in Colorado? Access your built-up equity with Ziffy’s DSCR cash-out refinance and reinvest it into new properties, renovations, or portfolio expansion, all through a process that focuses solely on rental performance. 

Get started with a Ziffy DSCR loan today and grow your Colorado real estate portfolio with confidence. 

FAQs

How can I check if my Colorado property qualifies for a DSCR loan?

You can use the Ziffy DSCR calculator to estimate your ratio instantly. Enter your projected rent, purchase price, and loan details to see if your property qualifies. 

What if my property’s DSCR is below 1.0? 

You can still qualify through Ziffy’s No-Ratio DSCR Program, which allows financing for properties with a DSCR between 0 and 1. This option may require a slightly higher down payment or additional reserves but enables investors to act on strong long-term opportunities. 

Can I refinance an existing property with a DSCR loan? 

Yes. Ziffy’s DSCR cash-out refinance allows investors to unlock built-up equity and reinvest in new properties, renovations, or portfolio expansion, all based on the property’s performance. 

About the author:
Steven Glick is the Director of Mortgage Sales at Ziffy and a licensed mortgage originator (NMLS #1231769). He helps investors access smart, flexible financing solutions that support long-term real estate growth.
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