Senior Housing Costs in Des Moines (2026): A Guide for Smart Home Sellers
First-Time Buyer Grants Iowa 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Everything You Need to Succeed
Thinking about buying a home in Des Moines but worried about the down payment? You’re not alone — and you might be closer to your dream home than you think.
Iowa offers incredible first-time homebuyer grant programs that can give you up to $5,000 toward your first home, and most buyers don’t even know they exist.
With inventory stabilizing in 2026 and interest rates opening real opportunities for prepared buyers, now is the perfect time to learn how these programs can work for you.
---
## 🎯 The 3 Main Iowa Grant Programs Every First-Time Buyer Should Know
### 1. FirstHome Program – $2,500 Grant + 5% Assistance Loan
The FirstHome Program is Iowa’s cornerstone first-time buyer option. You’ll get:
- A $2,500 grant (no repayment required)
- Access to a second loan equal to 5% of your home’s price or appraised value, whichever is lower
(No monthly payments — repay only when you sell, refinance, or finish your first mortgage)
Who qualifies:
- Haven’t owned a primary residence in 3+ years
- Income: $79,500–$99,700 (county-dependent)
- Home price cap: $381,000
- Debt-to-income ratio: up to 45%
---
### 2. Homes for Iowans Program – $2,500 Grant for Repeat Buyers Too
Not a first-timer? No problem. The Homes for Iowans Program expands eligibility to include repeat buyers.
- Grant amount: $2,500
- Income limit: up to $139,580, making it ideal for higher-income households in the Des Moines metro
This flexibility means even those upgrading or returning to homeownership can get help with closing costs and down payments.
---
### 3. Military Homeownership Assistance – Up to $5,000
For veterans, active-duty military, and surviving spouses, this is the best deal around.
- Grant amount: up to $5,000
- Can be combined with the FirstHome or Homes for Iowans program
Perfect for military families aiming to settle in Ankeny, Johnston, or Urbandale — some of Iowa’s best neighborhoods for long-term value.
---
## ✅ What You Really Need to Qualify
Let’s cut through the fine print. Here’s what genuinely matters:
- Credit Score: 640 or higher
- Income Limits: $79,500–$139,580 depending on county & program
- Home Price Cap: $381,000 (covers most entry-level homes in the metro)
- Primary Residence: No investment properties
- Homebuyer Education: Required course — informative, free, and quick
---
## 🪜 Your Step-by-Step Action Plan for 2026
### Step 1: Check the Smart Move Des Moines App
Filter for homes below $381,000 in your preferred neighborhoods (Ankeny, Urbandale, Waukee). You’ll see live inventory — especially important when grant funds are limited.
### Step 2: Contact an IFA-Approved Lender
Not all lenders handle these programs. I work directly with the top local lenders who understand IFA qualifications and can streamline your pre-approval.
### Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Get your pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and bank statements ready. Having these upfront makes everything faster.
### Step 4: Get Fully Pre-Approved
A full underwritten pre-approval makes your offer stronger — a crucial edge in desirable areas like Johnston and West Des Moines.
---
## 📊 Why 2026 Is Your Window in Des Moines
For the first time since 2019, local housing conditions favor first-time buyers:
- Balanced inventory: Fewer bidding wars, more negotiation power
- Price sweet spot: Homes between $280K–$350K match most grant limits
- Stable rates: Easier payment predictability
This combination makes 2026 the year to act strategically — especially with grants covering thousands in upfront costs.
---
## 🔑 After You Get the Keys
Buying your home is just the beginning! That’s why we partner with Golden Concierge — they handle every detail after closing, from utility setup to trusted local vendors.
You’ll settle smoothly into your first home without stress — and actually enjoy the excitement you’ve earned.
---
## ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Waiting for ‘perfect’ timing: There isn’t one — only prepared buyers win.
2. Skipping pre-approval: Sellers want serious buyers with verified funding.
3. Ignoring total cost: Factor in insurance, taxes, and HOA fees.
4. Skipping inspections: Don’t risk hidden expenses — inspections protect you.
---
## 🏠 Ready to Make Your Smart Move?
If this sounds too good to be true — it’s not. These grant programs are real, active, and designed to help Iowans like you become homeowners.
Grant funds are limited, so the earlier you act, the better your chances of qualifying.
👉 [Request Your Free First-Time Buyer Grant Checklist](https://smartmovedsm.com/contact)
I’ll send a personalized list of current homes and grant matches based on your budget and goals — no pressure, just clarity.
---
### About Sarah Ingles
Realtor® | SRES® | Smart Move Des Moines
Powered by CHASE. Collective Real Estate
Partnered with Golden Concierge
📞 (563) 513-8771
