Colorado Launches Nation's First Statewide Tenant Equity Program at Estes Park Complex
Colorado has unveiled the nation's first statewide tenant equity initiative, with Fall River Village in Estes Park becoming the first property to participate. Starting in February 2026, 66 renters can earn cash back for on-time payments and share in property equity.
"By helping renters save the money needed to make a down payment on a home, more Colorado families will be able to build wealth and security," Gov. Jared Polis said in announcing the program. "Home ownership is a major pathway to financial security, and now more Coloradans will be able to realize the dream of owning a home."
The program offers two core benefits: monthly cash back for on-time rent, plus eligibility after one year for an annual savings match and equity distributions tied to returns from Proposition 123-funded housing across Colorado.
The program is a partnership between the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, and fintech company Stake. Tenants at Fall River Village are the first in the nation to access these benefits, making Estes Park the test case for the statewide strategy.
The Estes Park Housing Authority acquired Fall River Village—historically a seasonal vacation rental complex—and converted approximately 90 units into permanent workforce housing as part of a broader state push to address housing shortages in resort communities. To qualify, at least one adult per household must be employed within the Estes Park School District R-3 boundaries. CHFA committed $7 million to the project through Proposition 123, the state's 2022 affordable housing funding ballot measure.
Two-bedroom units rent for $1,766 to $2,034 monthly, pricing tied to area wages. Monthly cash-back payments and equity distributions could accumulate toward down payments over several years.
"The Colorado Renter Rewards program is a powerful example of how we are helping Coloradans build economic stability and opportunity," said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director. "By pairing affordable housing with cash back and equity payments for renters, we are helping more people love where they live and save money. This is a smart investment in our workforce and families, supporting long-term economic growth and a Colorado economy that works for everyone."