CHF Revolving Loan Fund: Preservation Loans
Successful historic preservation requires collaboration and a creative mix of resources. The Colorado Historical Foundation established the CHF Revolving Loan Fund to provide financing for historic property redevelopment. Work generally must follow the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties.
CHF Revolving Loan Fund loans can help manage cash flow for construction, as well as supplement grants, historic rehabilitation tax credits, CPACE financing, and other public or private investment.
Eligible Projects
- Listed, or eligible to be listed,* on the National Register of Historic Places
- Listed, or eligible to be listed,* on the State Register of Historic Properties
- Contributing Building within a National Register or Local Historic District
- Locally landmarked through county or municipal ordinance/resolution
*Must complete a "Determination of Eligibility" through the State Historic Preservation Office
Financing helps cover rehabilitation costs as well as related design, engineering, construction fees and permits; acquisition funding/refinancing may be considered if rehabilitation and permanent financing are secured and the property's historic character is protected by covenant, easement, or local ordinance.
Eligible Borrowers
If the project is eligible and meets our basic criteria, the Foundation is available to work with private owners, nonprofit organizations, public entities, commercial owners and developers. Applicants must demonstrate a business plan or other ability to pay off the loan.
Loan Terms
- Flexible repayment schedules, up to five years - no prepayment penalty
- Generally $250K - $750K. Loans outside this range may be considered in certain circumstances
- Below-market fixed interest rates
- Borrower pays 1.5% Commitment Fee and certain closing costs**
- Minimum 10% owner equity (entire project)
- Secured Loans - a property lien and personal-guaranty generally required. Other equivalents may be considered.
Loan Administration
Preservation Loans are administered through the Colorado Historical Foundation's subsidiary, the CHF Revolving Loan Fund. Staff, in partnership with a volunteer Loan Committee, evaluates qualifying projects and provides consultation. The Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) assists with risk evaluation, pre-closing review, and loan servicing. Loan terms and contracting are finalized with our legal counsel. The CHF Revolving Loan fund was established in part through grants from the History Colorado State Historical Fund.
Contact Executive Director Catherine Stroh to discuss your project and request an application form. **Download Program Policies & Procedures (v. 01.06.2022)