INRCOG assists our communities with providing safe, decent, affordable housing options for its citizens. We remain informed about housing programs available at the federal, state, and local levels to recommend appropriate and feasible grant and loan opportunities. 
Planning services include the creation of Housing Needs Assessments to identify and document housing needs in your community to guide the development of a strategic plan to address those needs. INRCOG can also assist in identifying and updating codes to improve housing within your community.
Our staff can help establish and manage Housing-Related Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Tax Abatement Plans and Districts for our member cities and counties in conjunction with the community’s locally elected officials, staff, and legal counsel.
TIF Set-Aside Plans can also be developed to support communities that have utilized Tax Increment Financing and are required to use a proportion of the taxes generated to assist low- to moderate-income households.
We also assist with housing inspections for rehabilitation projects and help communities in developing and implementing rental housing inspections. 
Homes for Iowa is a unique effort that helps communities add high-quality, affordable homes while supporting workforce development by building new, single-family homes through a partnership with the Iowa Department of Corrections. Inmates receive valuable training while constructing the homes which are then sold at a modest cost to cities, nonprofits, or individuals—helping address Iowa’s growing need for workforce and starter housing. If your community is looking for new tools to add housing without breaking the bank, Homes for Iowa is worth a closer look. Contact us for assistance in understanding site requirements, eligibility, and how to incorporate Homes for Iowa into your community’s housing strategy.
Additional housing-related activities are provided through the following:
Homeowners struggling with mortgage payments can call Iowa Mortgage Help at 877-622-4866 or visit their website at iowamortgagehelp.com.
For information about the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program for communities in the INRCOG region, call the Iowa Northland Regional Housing Authority at 319-483-5079 or visit their website at inrha.org.