See programs you qualify for
Get Matched Free →Metro Home Improvement Program
How much assistance
Up to $16,820 (minimum $500) (Forgivable Loan)
Forgiven pro-rata over 5 years. Recorded as a second mortgage. No interest. Only repaid if the home is sold within 5 years of participation.
Eligibility
- Income limits: At or below 80% of Polk County Area Median Income
- Purchase price limit: $300,000
- First-time buyer required: No
- Geographic restrictions: Home must be located in a participating metro city: Ankeny, Altoona, Bondurant, Grimes, Polk City, Urbandale, West Des Moines, or Windsor Heights.
- Homebuyer education required: No
How to Apply for Metro Home Improvement Program
Step 1: Contact Mid Iowa Planning Alliance (MIPA), which administers the program. For Ankeny questions you can also reach Amy Bryant at abryant@ankenyiowa.gov or 515-963-3542. Eligible improvements include siding, roofs, windows, electrical, plumbing, and city code violation repairs. Property taxes, mortgage, and insurance must be current. Mobile homes, contract purchases, duplexes, and rentals are not eligible.
Notes
This is a post-purchase home repair program rather than traditional down payment assistance. It is still highly relevant for Ankeny buyers who want to purchase and renovate an older home. Administration transitioned to MIPA on October 1, 2024.