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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Des Moines, IA

Population 212,086 · Updated November 2026

Estimated Median Home Price

$190,000

Affordable

Based on Iowa market data and city size. Actual prices vary by neighborhood.

Affordability Snapshot

Est. Monthly Payment
$1,471/mo

P&I $1,159 + Tax $249 + Ins $63

Property Tax Rate
1.57%

$2,983/yr in Iowa

FHA Loan Limit
$498K

Standard limit in Iowa

Down Payment Breakdown

For a $190,000 home in Des Moines:

FHA Loan (3.5% down)

Min. 580 credit score

$6,650

Conventional (5% down)

Min. 620 credit score

$9,500

VA / USDA (0% down)

Veterans / eligible rural areas

$0

Plus closing costs of $3,800 - $9,500 (2-5%)

Iowa Homebuyer Programs

FirstHome Program

Below-Market Rate Mortgage
Below-market interest rate

Iowa Finance Authority provides below-market rate mortgages with income and purchase price limits for first-time buyers.

Homes for Iowans

Down Payment Assistance
Up to $2,500

IFA offers a $2,500 grant for down payment and closing costs.

Federal Loan Programs

ProgramDown PaymentCredit ScoreEligibility
FHA3.5%580+ (3.5%) or 500+ (10%)All buyers
Conventional3-5%620+All buyers
VA0%No minimum (most lenders want 620+)Veterans, active military, surviving spouses
USDA0%640+ (most lenders)Eligible rural/suburban areas, income limits

FHA loan limit in Iowa: $498,257. Rates and requirements as of 2026.

7 Steps to Buying Your First Home in Des Moines

1

Check your credit score

FHA requires 580+ for 3.5% down; conventional needs 620+. Free annual reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Des Moines has 5 HUD-approved counseling agencies that offer free credit counseling.

2

Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified)

Pre-approval involves a full credit check, income verification, and asset documentation. It tells sellers you are a serious buyer with confirmed financing. Pre-qualification is just an informal estimate.

3

Apply for Iowa assistance programs

Iowa offers 2 homebuyer programs that can reduce your down payment or closing costs. Apply before you start house-hunting — some programs take 2-4 weeks to process.

4

Find a buyer's agent

A buyer's agent represents your interests and is typically paid by the seller. Look for agents who know the Des Moines market and have experience with first-time buyers and DPA programs.

5

House hunt with your budget

With a median price of $190,000 in Des Moines, your total monthly housing cost would be approximately $1,471/month. Most lenders recommend keeping housing costs below 28% of gross income.

6

Make an offer and get an inspection

Your agent helps structure the offer. Always get a home inspection ($300-$500) — it can reveal costly problems. In competitive markets, resist pressure to waive the inspection contingency.

7

Close on your home

Closing typically takes 30-45 days after an accepted offer. Budget $3,800-$9,500 for closing costs. Review all documents carefully at closing — you have 3 days to review the Closing Disclosure before signing.

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors in Des Moines

Approximately 5 agencies offer free homebuyer education and credit counseling

First-Time Homebuyer Facts

Median Buyer Age

36 years

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Avg. Down Payment

8%

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Use DPA Programs

40% of first-time buyers

National Association of Realtors, 2024

Closing Costs

2-5% of purchase price

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying in Des Moines

What first-time homebuyer programs are available in Des Moines, IA?
Iowa offers 2 state-level homebuyer assistance programs: FirstHome Program, Homes for Iowans. In addition, federal programs including FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% down for veterans), and USDA (0% down in eligible rural areas) are available to Des Moines buyers.
How much do I need for a down payment on a home in Des Moines?
Based on the estimated median home price of $190,000 in Des Moines: an FHA loan requires $6,650 (3.5%), a conventional loan requires $9,500 (5%), and VA/USDA loans require $0 down. About 40% of first-time buyers use down payment assistance programs to reduce these amounts.
What is the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Des Moines?
For the estimated median home price of $190,000 in Des Moines with an FHA loan (3.5% down, 6.5% interest rate, 30-year term), the estimated principal and interest payment is approximately $1,159/month. Add property taxes (1.57% in Iowa), homeowner's insurance, and mortgage insurance for the full monthly cost.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Des Moines?
FHA loans require a minimum 580 credit score for the 3.5% down payment option (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. Higher scores qualify for better interest rates. Free credit counseling is available through the 5 HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in the Des Moines area.
What are closing costs for buying a home in Des Moines, IA?
Closing costs in Des Moines typically range from $3,800 to $9,500 (2-5% of the purchase price). These include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, recording fees, and prepaid property taxes. Some Iowa DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Homebuyer Programs in Other Iowa Cities

Cedar Rapids$195,000
Affordable
Davenport$240,000
Affordable
Sioux City$150,000
Affordable
Ankeny$165,000
Affordable
Iowa City$185,000
Affordable
West Des Moines$175,000
Affordable
Ames$175,000
Affordable
Waterloo$180,000
Affordable
Back to Des Moines overviewAll homebuyer programsDes Moines safety data

Home prices are population-based estimates and may not reflect current market conditions. Program details, eligibility requirements, and amounts are approximate and subject to change. Contact your state housing finance agency or a HUD-approved counselor for current information. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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