Category: Uncategorized

  • Top Tips for Avoiding High Mortgage Rates

    Top Tips for Avoiding High Mortgage Rates

    Feeling trapped by high interest rates? Take charge with these effective strategies to secure better mortgage rates. Review and improve your credit report and score to enhance lender confidence and secure favorable rates.

  • The Best Homeowners Insurance in Iowa for 2025

    NerdWallet analyzed over 270 million rates from more than 50 insurance companies to identify the best homeowners insurance in Iowa. Top-rated insurers include Amica, Auto-Owners, Chubb, Country Financial, and USAA, each earning a 5-star rating for customer satisfaction and low complaint levels. The average annual cost of homeowners insurance in Iowa is $2,215, influenced by…

  • Inside Iowa Politics: Focus on your high property tax bill

    Iowa Speaker of the House Pat Grassley acknowledged residents' concerns over rising property taxes and stated that Republicans will address this in the upcoming legislative session. With a Republican majority in the Statehouse, Grassley aims to implement changes to limit local tax increases while balancing the need for local governments to fund essential services. Although…

  • Mortgage Calculator: How Much You Need To Buy a Home in Iowa at a Rate of 6.91%

    The average rate on a 30-year mortgage has risen to 6.91%. In Iowa, the median home price is $278,850, requiring a 20% down payment of $55,770, resulting in a monthly payment of $1,471. With a 10% down payment, the upfront cost is $27,885, leading to a monthly payment of $1,655. These payments exclude taxes and…

  • Homebuyers: 2025’s Ride Will Be Bumpy!

    Homebuyers: 2025’s Ride Will Be Bumpy!

    Home values are expected to rise 2.6% in 2025, matching 2024's growth pace. Sales of existing homes will climb to 4.3 million in 2025, up from 4 million this year.

  • When Are Quarterly Taxes Due in 2025?

    When Are Quarterly Taxes Due in 2025?

    Quarterly taxes are due four times per year to avoid IRS penalties. The first quarterly payment for 2025 is due on April 15, for income earned in Q1.

  • 2025 Interest Rate Forecast: Economic Balancing Act

    2025 Interest Rate Forecast: Economic Balancing Act

    Rates to drop from 4.5% (Q1) to 3.9% (Q4), following gradual rate cuts across four quarters. Rate cuts aim to boost borrowing and economic activity while addressing inflation concerns.

  • Iowa Has the 11th Highest Property Taxes in the Country

    America's homebuyers face challenges due to high demand, limited inventory, and rising interest rates, driving home prices to record levels. Existing homeowners are often "locked in" with low-interest mortgages, complicating relocation. Property taxes, which have surged alongside home values, add to the financial burden. While some states have implemented assessment limits to protect homeowners, disparities…

  • Iowa Among Top States for First-Time Property Buyers

    Iowa ranks as the second best state in the U.S. for first-time property buyers, according to a study by REsmipli. The median home value is $194,600, with an average down payment of approximately $28,000. On average, it takes about two years and one month to save for this down payment in Iowa. Continue to full…

  • Iowa land value survey finds 3 percent drop

    The 2024 Iowa State University Land Value Survey indicates a 3.1% decrease in average Iowa farmland values to $11,467 per acre from November 2023 to November 2024. This decline is attributed to high interest rates, lower commodity prices, and rising input costs, despite strong demand and limited land supply. Most counties experienced decreases, with medium-quality…