Iowa is a steady, practical market. Buyers here compare the fast growing Des Moines suburbs with river cities and small towns across the state. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Iowa, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Iowa page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Iowa
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Des Moines
The capital and the center of the state's market, with plenty of established neighborhoods and a wide range of price points.
Ankeny
A fast growing northern suburb of Des Moines with lots of new construction.
Waukee
A fast growing western suburb of Des Moines in Dallas County, with new neighborhoods and newer homes.
Cedar Rapids
The second largest city in the state, with a steady market and price points that tend to be more approachable than the Des Moines suburbs.
Davenport
On the Mississippi in the Quad Cities, close to the Rock Island Arsenal across the river, with a steady resale market.
Loan programs to know in Iowa
Most Iowa buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Iowa has a large Veteran and National Guard community, and the Rock Island Arsenal is just across the river from Davenport.
- USDA loans. Iowa has many small towns and rural areas that may be USDA eligible. Check an address on the USDA map and we can walk through the process.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from IFA, covered below.
First-time buyer help from IFA
Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Iowa. IFA offers the FirstHome program for first-time buyers, with optional help for the down payment. Military members and buyers in targeted areas may qualify even if they are not first-time buyers. Homebuyer education may be required, and IFA programs are delivered through IFA approved lenders, so ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, IFA, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
IFA designates targeted areas where its rules are different, including the first-time buyer requirement and its income and purchase price limits. Ask us whether the area you are considering is one of them.
How we work with Iowa buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Iowa page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Iowa?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Iowa. Licensing details are on our Iowa page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Iowa have a first-time buyer program?
Yes. The Iowa Finance Authority runs the FirstHome program through approved lenders, with eligibility rules and education requirements. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer to use FirstHome?
Usually that is the rule, but IFA allows exceptions for certain military members and for buyers in targeted areas. Details change, so ask us and check with IFA.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Iowa and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.