As we find ourselves in the midst of severe weather season here in Iowa, it’s a good time for homeowners to develop and /or review their emergency plans with their families. It’s important to involve all members of the family in the discussion and development of your family’s emergency plan. Adjust your plan as needed [...]

Read More » Comments »

By Gwen Moran, Houselogic.com Damage caused by driving rain is usually covered under standard homeowners insurance policies. Once the precipitation hits the ground, however, all bets may be off. Homeowners insurance typically excludes damage resulting from “seeping water, snow melt, rising bodies of water like lakes or rivers, and any type of rising ground water,” [...]

Read More » Comments »

By Dave Toht, Houselogic.com Substantial snowmelt and heavy spring rains signal the onset of summer’s heat and humidity in the Midwest—extreme conditions that put stress on the exterior of a house and other features, such as driveways and fences. Routine outdoor maintenance helps ensure that your property withstands nature’s challenges while preserving the value of [...]

Read More » Comments »

April is Fair Housing Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the landmark Fair Housing Act, which was created in 1968 and amended in 1988. April 2010 is the 42nd anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, which declared a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States. The law prohibits housing discrimination on the [...]

Read More » Comments »

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market, Congress has passed new legislation that: Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until Apr. 30, 2010. Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November [...]

Read More » Comments »

USDA Rural Development has $300 million to assist Iowans with home purchases DES MOINES, Iowa – August 21, 2009 – Residents in Iowa looking to purchase a new home may be surprised to learn that the only no-down-payment programs still available are offered through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). “Last year USDA Rural [...]

Read More » Comments »

by Lee Duin, Director – Polk County Treasurer What is a tax sale? A tax sale is a requirement of Iowa law in which delinquent property taxes on parcels of land or mobile/manufactured homes are sold to investors attending the annual sale. The sale, held the third Monday of June, is required by Iowa law [...]

Read More » Comments »