If you own an older home in Des Moines, Iowa, this is important. As of January 1, 2026, Iowa homeowners are legally required to disclose whether their property has a lead water service line  when selling. And many homeowners in Des Moines have no idea this now applies to them. As a local Des Moines Realtor, I’ve been digging into this so my clients are not caught off guard. If you’re thinking about selling in 2026 or even the next few years, here’s exactly what you need to know about Iowa’s...

If you’re planning to sell your home in 2026 in Des Moines or the surrounding suburbs like Ankeny, Waukee, Johnston, Urbandale, or West Des Moines, now is the time to start thinking strategically. I’m already having conversations with homeowners across the metro who want to maximize their home value before they list. And here’s the biggest mistake I see Des Moines sellers make: They don’t understand the difference between home maintenance, home improvements, and major replacements. If you...

Thinking about buying and selling a home at the same time in Des Moines? This step-by-step guide explains how to avoid costly mistakes, protect your equity, and move with confidence. One of the most stressful conversations I have with clients sounds like this: “We want to move… but we don’t know how to sell our house and buy a new one at the same time.” You’re not alone. This is hands-down one of the most confusing parts of the real estate process, especially in a market where timing,...