The housing market, in Iowa and the nation, continues to be a critical economic issue. An increasing number of people don’t have enough money to purchase their first home. Also, many potential homebuyers are sidelined because too few existing homes are for sale. The limited availability of homes for sale is helping spark a flurry of construction of multifamily units, particularly in Des Moines’ downtown and the area’s burgeoning suburbs.

Local housing experts shared during the panel discussion what’s driving the uptick in the construction of townhomes and apartments; the effect interest rates for home mortgages is having on homebuying; and efforts underway to make buying a home more affordable.

Panelists included:
Rachel Flint, senior vice president, homebuilding operations, Hubbell Realty Co.
Sean Fogarty, partner, Artisan Capital Group
Larry Goodell, retail mortgage manager, U.S. Bank
Lance Henning, CEO, Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity
Sara Hopkins, realtor, Re/Max Precision
Aaron Mesmer, executive vice president/chief investment officer, Block Real Estate Services LLC