It’s Easy Here! Housing Summit Cites Positive Economic Growth, Abundant Job Opportunities Amid Skyrocketing Housing Demand
November 4, 2024
On the heels of an economic boom that resulted in more job opportunities and options for relocating to communities with a small-town atmosphere and high quality of life, Western Iowa Advantage wrapped up its “Navigating the Waves of Housing Success” summit on October 9 to address an increasing demand for housing.
Ripe for Growth
Over 60 attendees participated in the day-long event at the Twin Lakes Christian Center, capped by practical workshops hosted by the following industry leaders.
- Theresa Hildreth, Calhoun County Economic Development Executive Director and small business owner
- Sara Slater, Director for Audubon County Economic Development and Tourism
- Abbie Gaffey, Community Development Program Specialist for Iowa State University Extension & Outreach
- Rita Frahm, VP of Iowa State Bank
- Matt Daniels, Director of Operations for Origin Homes
- David Miller, Development Director with the City of Rock Valley
- Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority
- Dawn Meyer, City Clerk/Administrator in Manning
- Chris Deal, Developer, Jefferson
- Adam Schweers, Partner, Western Iowa Living
- Lorin Ditzler, Keep Iowa Beautiful
- Angela Duitsman, City Clerk in Fonda
- Amy Ziegler, Travel Iowa
Summit topics ran the gamut from a deep dive into the lessons learned by sister communities facing similar housing demands to the nuts and bolts behind the conceptualization and execution of a successful housing development project. The summit also outlined a vast array of financial bonuses available, such as free or reduced-cost land, cash rebates, tax incentives, loans, grants, and infrastructure support to increase the profitability of housing projects.
A follow-up survey indicated attendees were pleased with the summit, citing the variety of informative topics, real-life project examples and a wonderful, engaging atmosphere. Other survey comments included:
“Speakers were prepared to present and had great information. I enjoyed the ability to mingle with others in the same workforce.”
“Most sessions were highly practical. Learning what other communities have done can translate or foster concepts that benefit any community.”
“Love hearing about successful projects and the nuts and bolts of how they were done.”
A Shared Vision for the Future
The summit united a group of elected officials, developers, lenders and housing industry champions with one shared vision: promote and discuss potential housing opportunities and incentives for developers to create a foundation for community success.
“I have been involved in housing development projects in various regions, but Western Iowa stands out for its seamless process and outstanding results,” said developer Matt Campbell. “The demand for housing here is unmatched, and the market is ripe for growth. If you’re looking for a lucrative opportunity, Western Iowa should be at the top of your list.”
The event also included success stories from numerous industry participants who praised the WIA’s hands-on approach in working with developers to identify property, secure all possible incentives, coordinate with local governments and utility providers, and walk developers through a straightforward process that lacks the red tape found in metro areas.
“Developing in Western Iowa has been a game-changer for us,” said developer Sarah Thompson. “We’ve saved substantial construction costs, allowing us to allocate more resources towards creating a high-quality development. The straightforward and helpful approach of all stakeholders, combined with the affordability of building materials, has made our experience smooth and financially advantageous.”
The Advantage is Clear
Post-COVID, Western Iowa has seen an influx of individuals moving from heavily populated areas and high-cost states like California who are seeking a high quality of life, safe neighborhoods, and a tight-knit community atmosphere without losing easy accessibility to the cultural and sports offerings of nearby cities like Des Moines, Omaha, and Sioux City. This increased demand has put pressure on regional existing housing stock, which averages fewer than ten properties per county on the market —a trend that has persisted for several years. As a result, it’s not unusual for homes to sell at lightning speed and often within hours of hitting the market. And it’s this untapped demand that serves as a golden opportunity for housing developers to capitalize on an eager market hungry for attractive and accessible housing options.
“I was amazed at how quickly the homes I developed in Western Iowa sold,” said developer Jim Johnson. “The demand was simply unmatched, and the process was incredibly smooth. I couldn’t be happier with the results and I’m already planning my next project in this thriving region.”
Interested in partnering with WIAD for your next housing development project? We'd love to hear from you!
