President’s Message

As we continue to navigate the challenges of our current housing environment, I want to speak directly to the role each of us can play in influencing real change — always starting at the local level.

While statewide and national reports may suggest new construction housing is holding steady, the reality beneath the data tells a different story. A significant portion of new construction is focused on homes priced at or above $500,000 — homes far out of reach for most first-time buyers and working families. This isn’t the builders’ fault. With the cost of supplies, regulatory burdens and infrastructure requirements, this is the price range where margins are attainable. The result is a growing gap in housing accessibility, particularly for moderate-income Iowans. If left unaddressed, this imbalance will continue to shift communities toward long-term rental occupancy rather than sustainable homeownership.

There is, however, an opportunity — and a responsibility — for us to take a seat at the table and help shape housing policy in our communities.

State and local governments have access to funding and resources specifically designated to support housing development, but they need informed voices at the table. As mortgage originators, we see the real-time impact of housing unaffordability in our communities. We understand the barriers first-time homebuyers face, and we are uniquely positioned to offer insight into what’s truly needed.

I encourage every member of the IMA to reach out to city councils, county supervisors, planning and zoning boards, and economic development leaders. Share what you’re seeing. Advocate for policies and partnerships that support entry-level home construction, down payment assistance, and innovative approaches to community development.

Affordable homeownership isn’t just about housing — it’s about stability, opportunity and long-term community growth. Let’s do our part to help shape communities of homeowners, not just renters.

Thank you for continuing to lead with integrity and purpose. Your work matters now more than ever.

Association Updates

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This free webinar is a membership benefit of the IMA. Read more.

Industry News

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently updated the expired HUD-Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA) Notice form 92070. This notice must be provided to delinquent mortgage loan borrowers and informs service members, their spouses, and dependents of certain legal protections and debt relief pursuant to the SCRA. In addition to updating the expiration date to March 31, 2028, the form includes an expanded identification heading for the Office of Housing to now include ‘Federal Housing Commissioner’ and adds Space Force to the listed branches of U.S. Armed Forces.

HUD provides a PDF version of this form. However, lenders are required to add their name, address and contact information to allow those covered to request relief under the SCRA.