How Dupaco is helping homebuyers navigate today’s market

DUBUQUE, Iowa—While national surveys show fewer Americans believe now is a good time to buy a home, Dupaco Community Credit Union continues to help homebuyers find a path forward—through personalized guidance, flexible lending options and a commitment to making homeownership more accessible.

A recent Gallup poll found that Americans’ homebuying intentions have declined to one of the lowest levels recorded in decades, driven largely by affordability concerns, interest rates and broader economic uncertainty. Yet despite these headwinds, Dupaco is seeing strong engagement from homebuyers who are moving forward with confidence—particularly first‑time buyers who are leaning on education, support, trust and flexible lending options they can find at the financial cooperative.  

While Dupaco supports homebuyers at every stage—from first‑time buyers to those purchasing their next home—the credit union has seen particularly strong interest from new buyers so far this year. In fact, first‑time homebuyers have made up more than 60% of purchases in 2026, reflecting both the continued demand for homeownership and the value of trusted guidance in today’s market.

“Nationally, the conversation around homeownership can feel discouraging,” said Laurie Von Ah, senior mortgage lending consultant at Dupaco. “At Dupaco, we’re seeing a different story—one where informed buyers, especially first‑time homebuyers, are still moving forward when they have the right tools, guidance and support.”

Making homeownership more affordable remains a priority for Dupaco and the communities it serves.  

Through participation in different programs designed to reduce upfront costs or even rates, the credit union has helped buyers navigate today’s market with greater confidence. Most recently, Dupaco concluded its participation in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) Mortgage Rate Relief Program, successfully ensuring funds allocated to the credit union were used to help make homeownership more affordable for eligible buyers.

This program provided permanent mortgage rate reductions to qualified homebuyers, helping them achieve long-term savings and greater financial stability.  

“Programs like FHLB Des Moines’ Mortgage Rate Relief program are more about just lowering rates—they’re about opening doors,” Von Ah said. “We’re proud to continue helping so many members take that important step toward homeownership,” said Von Ah.

Beyond special programs, Dupaco supports homebuyers with a wide range of financing options and personalized guidance. They include fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages, VA loans, first-time homebuyer programs, construction and lot loans and investment property financing. Mortgage experts work closely with members to explain market conditions, explore available resources and build plans that align with both short- and long-term goals.

“As the market evolves, clarity matters more than ever,” Von Ah added. “We take time to educate members, answer questions and help them build a plan that fits their budget—not just today, but for the long term.”

For more information on Dupaco’s home loan programs, visit www.dupaco.com/HomeLoans or call 800-373-7600 ext. 204.

*All loans subject to approval. Rate, terms and conditions are subject to change. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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ABOUT DUPACO COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
Dupaco Community Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa. It is dedicated to the financial well-being of its members, and specializes in personalized financial counseling, money advice and education. It offers savings, loans, investments, insurance and wealth management products for individuals and businesses. Dupaco serves residents in 118 counties throughout Iowa, northwest Illinois and southwest Wisconsin. Founded in 1948 by ten Dubuque Packing Company employees, membership has grown to more than 179,000 with assets exceeding $3.6 billion. It has over 600 employees and 22 branch office locations. Learn more at www.dupaco.com.