Neighborhood Finance Corporation

Invest DSM

Place-based investment partner for select Des Moines neighborhoods


Invest DSM is a funder that provides financial incentives to support home improvement, neighborhood revitalization, and long-term stability in designated Special Investment Districts (SIDs) across Des Moines, Iowa.

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Green with a Dark Green Outline Invest DSM Special Investment Districts (SIDs)

How Invest DSM Works with NFC

All Invest DSM neighborhoods fall within NFC’s Polk County lending area, which means homeowners may be able to combine Invest DSM with NFC financing through forgivable loans. Because Invest DSM is a funder, not a lender, their programs are designed to reduce the amount a homeowner needs to borrow, often through forgivable funding.
Invest DSM Website
More Information

Why Homeowners Should Check Invest DSM First

Loan originators often review Invest DSM eligibility before structuring an NFC loan because:

  • Homeowners may qualify for more total funding when Invest DSM is layered with NFC financing.
  • Invest DSM can help homeowners who don’t yet have equity, because NFC can lend up to 95% of the after-improved value.
  • When taxpayer dollars are used for loan forgiveness, NFC can clearly document how funds were invested in the home — not in program administration.

Invest DSM programs support a wide range of home improvements that strengthen neighborhood stability and long‑term comfort. Funding can be used for home improvement projects, energy‑efficiency upgrades, comfort‑focused renovations, and even refinancing or improvement loans behind an existing mortgage. These investments are designed to help homeowners modernize older homes, address needed repairs, and improve overall livability.

When paired with NFC financing, Invest DSM funding may provide upfront forgiveness, reducing the amount a homeowner needs to borrow and making improvement projects more accessible.

How NFC Determines Loan Amounts in SID Neighborhoods

If a homeowner does not have enough equity, NFC can approve financing based on the after-improvement value, up to 95% loan-to-value (LTV). This makes Invest DSM neighborhoods especially strong opportunities for homeowners living in older homes.

Partner Program Guidance

For questions about how NFC and Invest DSM work together, contact:
Terry Gearhart
Vice President of Lending NMLS #4453
515-273-1365
tgearhart@neighborhoodfinance.org