How to Sell FSBO in Iowa (2026)
Iowa is America's agricultural powerhouse — the largest producer of corn and pork in the US, a top soybean and egg producer, and home to major agricultural enterprises (John Deere's largest manufacturing complex in Waterloo, Corteva Agriscience, Pioneer/DuPont). Beyond agriculture, Iowa's economy includes financial services (Principal Financial Group, Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield in Des Moines), insurance (Iowa is among the leading insurance states), and two major research universities (Iowa State University in Ames, University of Iowa in Iowa City).
Iowa's home prices are among the most affordable in the Midwest. Statewide median: $220,000–$265,000. Des Moines metro: $245,000–$295,000. Iowa City/Coralville (University of Iowa): $260,000–$320,000.
Iowa Seller Disclosure Requirements
Iowa Code §558A requires the Disclosure Statement for Iowa Residential Property. Sellers provide to buyers before or at contract; buyers have 5 business days after receipt to rescind.
Key Iowa disclosure items:
Iowa's Radon Reality
Iowa is the second-highest radon state in the US (after South Dakota). The Iowa Department of Public Health estimates that approximately 71% of Iowa homes have radon above 2 pCi/L and about 37% above 4 pCi/L (the EPA action level). This is not rare — it's essentially the norm in Iowa.
Agricultural Operation Proximity Disclosure
Iowa produces more pork than any other state. Concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) — particularly hog confinement buildings — are present throughout rural Iowa. For properties near active hog, poultry, or dairy operations:
Net Proceeds on a $255,000 Iowa FSBO Sale
- Flat fee MLS: $149–$399
- Iowa transfer tax ($1.60/$1,000): $408
- Title insurance: $650–$1,100
- Buyer's agent commission (2.5–3%): $6,375–$7,650
- Savings vs. 3% listing ($7,650): approximately $6,200–$7,500