West Des Moines, IA

Historic West Des Moines Housing Fund

West Des Moines is committed to providing housing options for everyone. These programs were created to improve the quality of life and support equity and inclusion in the Historic West Des Moines neighborhood.

Note: To qualify, your property must be located within the Historic West Des Moines area map.

Home Improvement Program

This program helps homeowners pay for repairs to the outside of their homes. The City will match the funds you contribute. The amount the City pays depends on your household income, up to a maximum of $25,000.

Review Home Improvement Program Guidelines (PDF)

How to Apply Online

Before you start your online application, please have these documents ready:

• Mortgage Statement
• Homeowner's Insurance policy
• Bank or Financial Statements for all assets
• Income documents for every household member age 18 or older
• Your most recent Federal Income Tax Return

Ready to apply? Register and apply through Neighborly Software.

If you need help with your application, call 515-273-0770 or email housing@wdm.iowa.gov.

Radon Mitigation Program

The goal of this program is to test homes for radon and fix any hazards found. This helps create a safer and healthier living environment for our residents.

How Radon Gets Into Your Home

Radon is a gas that comes from the ground. It can seep into your home through tiny cracks in the foundation, gaps in the floor, or openings around plumbing pipes. Because you can't see or smell it, testing is the only way to know if it is there.

Program Eligibility

To qualify for this program, you must meet the following requirements:

• Location: Your home must be within the city limits of West Des Moines.
• Home Type: The home can be a single-family house, duplex, or townhouse. It can be a rental or owner-occupied.
• Status: Owners must be current on mortgages and property taxes, have home insurance, and have no outstanding city fines. Rental properties must have a valid rental certificate.
• Income: Your total household annual income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), as shown in the table below.

Income Limits (80% AMI)

Financing and Grants

• Each home is eligible for up to $5,000.
• This money covers radon testing (before and after) and the costs to fix the hazards.
• The funds are provided as a grant, which means you do not have to pay it back.

How to Apply

For more details, please read the Radon Mitigation Program Guidelines (PDF).

The program begins accepting applications on January 15, 2025. To apply, you must register at the link below:

Apply through the Neighborly Software Portal

If you have questions, please call 515-273-0770 or email housing@wdm.iowa.gov.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The City of West Des Moines receives federal funding each year from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This "entitlement" funding is used to improve our community and help residents with low-to-moderate incomes.

Current Plans and Reports

Use the links below to view our federal planning and performance documents:

• Consolidated Plan: A five-year plan for housing and community needs.
• Annual Action Plan: Our goals and funding for the current year.
• Performance Report (CAPER): A report showing what the program achieved last year.
• Fair Housing Analysis: A report on housing choices in our region.
• Citizen Participation Plan: How you can get involved in the CDBG process.

How We Use CDBG Funds (2026-2027)

• Transportation: Free bus passes for qualified residents to get to work or medical appointments via DART.
• Housing: Emergency help to pay for utilities or prevent evictions.
• Human Services Building: Updates to the Human Services building
• Administration: Costs to manage and run the federal program.

Neighborhood Finance Corporation (NFC) Program

West Des Moines is proud to partner with the Neighborhood Finance Corporation (NFC). If you live in a participating area, you may qualify for specialized loans to purchase, refinance, or improve your home.

Eligible Home Repairs

NFC focuses on projects that improve the safety and value of your home. Common eligible repairs include:

• Systems: Updates to heating, cooling (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing.
• Exterior: Roof replacement, siding repair, painting, and new windows or doors.
• Structural: Foundation repairs and energy efficiency upgrades like insulation.
• Safety & Access: Sidewalk and driveway repairs, or removing barriers for wheelchairs and mobility devices.
• Property: Garage repair, significant tree trimming, or landscaping to fix water drainage issues.

Check Your Eligibility

To see if your home is in a qualified lending area, follow these steps:

1. Visit the NFC Website.
2. Click on Lending Area Maps.
3. Enter your address in the NFC Locator (remember to select West Des Moines as the city).

Note: To receive the $10,000 forgivable fund, the property must not have used these funds in the last 10 years. Qualified homebuyers may also receive up to $2,500 in closing cost and down payment assistance.

Contact Information

For more details, contact the NFC directly at 515-246-0010 or visit www.neighborhoodfinance.org.

Metro Home Improvement Program

The Metro Home Improvement Program helps homeowners in the Des Moines area preserve their homes by funding repairs and fixing building code violations. This program is a partnership between Ankeny, Altoona, Bondurant, Grimes, Polk City, Urbandale, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights.

Important Update: As of October 1, 2024, the Mid Iowa Planning Alliance (MIPA) manages this program. While West Des Moines is still an active partner, MIPA is now your direct contact for all questions and applications.

Program Quick Facts

Resources and Applications

• MIPA Metro Home Improvement Page
• Download Program Flyer (PDF)

How to Apply

You can apply for assistance online through the MIPA portal:

Apply Online via Neighborly Software

If you need a paper application or have questions, contact the Mid Iowa Planning Alliance:

• Phone: 515-304-3524
• Email: housing@midiowaplanning.org

Dallas County Local Housing Trust Fund, Inc.

The Dallas County Local Housing Trust Fund (DCLHTF) was created in 2004. Our mission is to provide safe and affordable housing for residents with low incomes in Dallas County. The fund is managed by a Board of Directors who represent the communities and people of the county.

Note: As of October 1, 2024, the Mid Iowa Planning Alliance (MIPA) now manages this program. While West Des Moines still participates, MIPA is now your direct contact for questions and applications.

Resources and Applications

• MIPA Dallas County Housing Trust Fund Page
• Download the Program Flyer (PDF)

How to Apply

You can apply for housing assistance online through the Neighborly portal managed by MIPA:

Apply Online via Neighborly Software

If you prefer a paper application or have specific questions, please contact the Mid Iowa Planning Alliance:

• Phone: 515-304-3524
• Email: housing@midiowaplanning.org

Housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District

The City of West Des Moines has a Housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district. When property values in this area go up, a portion of that new tax money is set aside. By law, this money must be spent on affordable housing projects within our city.

Projects Supported by the Housing TIF

Several local developments and programs have been funded by the Woodland Hills TIF, including:

• Phenix School Apartments: A historic elementary school converted into 17 mixed-income apartments.
• Valley Junction Upper Story Housing: Funding for four properties along 5th Street, creating 42 rental units (39 of which are affordable).
• 8th Street Houses: Two single-family homes built by Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity for low-income buyers.
• Local Program Support: The City uses TIF funds to provide matching grants for the Metro Home Improvement Program and the Dallas County Local Housing Trust Fund.
• Rental Assistance: Support for the Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency to provide Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers for West Des Moines residents.

Housing Needs Assessment