How long is the application window open? 

The application window for a home opens the day we break ground for construction and will be open for 30 days. 

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What does "Gross Annual Household Income Required" mean? 

In order to qualify for this home the total income from your household must be at or above this amount. To figure out your household income, add up any and all income made by the members of your household before taxes. Please be sure to read about our other income eligibility requirements.

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I applied, does that mean I get to purchase this home? 

Applying does not guarantee selection for the purchase of one of our homes.

Once the application window closes, our Property Development Team will review all applications within five (5) business days using an objective scoring system ensuring accuracy and fairness to assess a family’s financial and housing stability, ability to benefit from the program, and readiness for future homeownership.

The team will select the highest scoring and most qualified applicant for the purchase of the home. If multiple families score and qualify equally, a randomized lottery may be used to select the final applicant.

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Can I apply for more than one home? 

Yes! You can apply to each home you are interested in. But please only apply to each home once. Submitting multiple applications for the same home can delay the review process.

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I need to update my application, what do I do?

Please contact our team to update you application. Email propertydevelopment@homeincdsm.org or call 515-243-1277. Please do not submit another application. Submitting multiple applications for the same home can delay the review process.

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Will the timing of my application affect my score? 

No. All applications submitted within the 30 day window receive the same consideration with our impartial scoring system to ensure fairness for all applicants. 

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How do I get a mortgage pre-qualification or pre-approval?

You can go to any bank or lender to get a mortgage pre-qualification or pre-approval. 

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Please contact us for the list of lenders we have worked with in the past who are familiar with our program.

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Could I take a Homebuyer Education Class before applying to get those additional points? 

Yes! We always encourage potential homebuyers to take Homebuyer Education to better prepare them for the homebuying process and homeownership! We offer in-person and online Homebuyer Education classes. Or you can take a class through another organization. The class must be HUD certified and you will need a certificate of completion to submit with your application.

If the application window is open and you plan to take a Homebuyer Education Class within those 30 days to earn more points and increase your chances to be selected - please wait to submit your application until after you complete the course. The application period lasts 30 days. 

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How will I know if I was selected or not? 

Applicants who are selected will receive an email outlining their next steps. This will include scheduling an appointment to sign the Purchase Agreement.

Applicants who are not selected will be notified and provided with additional resources. These resources include information about upcoming Homebuyer Education classes, links to one-on-one counseling services, and guidance on preparing for future homeownership opportunities - whether through HOME, Inc. or other organizations.

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What parts of the home can I customize?

The selected applicant for a home may be permitted to make certain pre-approved design choices from our catalog. Customization options include: interior and exterior paint colors, LVP color, carpet color, and countertop color. These choices will be made with our Property Development Team early in the process. (If the house is past the framing stage, then customization will not be an option.)