Find Top Real Estate Agents in Des Moines, Iowa

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Updated May 1, 2026

If you’re buying or selling a home, choosing the right real estate agent can make a big difference in your experience and outcome. Top real estate agents in Des Moines, Iowa close more deals, negotiate better prices, and move homes faster than their peers.

We analyzed transactions and performance metrics for 1,507 real estate agents in Des Moines, IA to identify the best of the best. These are the top selling realtors in Des Moines based on local experience, sales history, and overall results.

  • Identify agents with solid experience in your price range, neighborhood, and property type
  • Prioritize agents with high customer review counts and strong ratings
  • Look at active or recently sold listings to assess marketing quality and performance
  • Interview 2–3 agents minimum (actually meet or speak with them)
  • Gauge communication, honesty, and expertise during the interview process
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» More: How to find a good realtor

Our team spends hundreds of hours each month analyzing real estate agents across the country so you don’t have to. We focus on the most important data for typical buyers and sellers in Des Moines — people looking for a knowledgeable, well-rounded agent who can deliver strong results.

To identify the best agents for most people, we apply a consistent set of filters to narrow the field to agents with relevant experience, strong performance in the local market, and a balanced track record. We then sort those agents based on key metrics like sales volume, speed, pricing accuracy, and client mix.

We regularly update our rankings as new data becomes available and continue refining our approach to surface the most useful recommendations. See our full methodology.

Des Moines, IA top real estate agents (May 2026 rankings)

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  • Erin Rundall

    Keller Williams Realty GDM
    Local sales*
    221
    Price range*
    $31K - $998K
    Typical price*
    $268,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Erin Rundall is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 131 transactions over the past 12 months — 221 in the past two years. Erin Rundall's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 51% sellers, 49% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 221
    • Local ranking by total sales: #2
    • State ranking by total sales: #5
    • Median days on market: 64 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Erin Rundall? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Beth Ernst

    Keller Williams Realty GDM
    Recent sales*
    177
    Local sales*
    176
    Price range*
    $118K - $878K
    Typical price*
    $295,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Vacant land

    Beth Ernst is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 86 transactions over the past 12 months — 177 in the past two years. Beth Ernst's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 51% sellers, 49% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 177
    • Local ranking by total sales: #5
    • State ranking by total sales: #13
    • Median days on market: 65 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Beth Ernst? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Sara Hopkins

    RE/MAX Precision
    Local sales*
    201
    Price range*
    $86K - $1.6M
    Typical price*
    $309,990
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Sara Hopkins is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 98 transactions over the past 12 months — 201 in the past two years. Sara Hopkins's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 64% sellers, 36% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 201
    • Local ranking by total sales: #4
    • State ranking by total sales: #7
    • Median days on market: 92 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Sara Hopkins? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

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  • Ashlee Knickerbocker

    Knickerbocker Real Estate
    Recent sales*
    122
    Local sales*
    118
    Price range*
    $93K - $785K
    Typical price*
    $309,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local 5+ years experience Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Vacant land

    Ashlee Knickerbocker is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. Ashlee Knickerbocker has worked in real estate for over 9 years. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 66 transactions over the past 12 months — 122 in the past two years. Ashlee Knickerbocker's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Est. years experience: 9
    • Works with: 46% sellers, 54% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 122
    • Local ranking by total sales: #14
    • State ranking by total sales: #28
    • Median days on market: 77 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%
    • Office address: West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA

    Are you Ashlee Knickerbocker? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Tammy Heckart

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    255
    Local sales*
    252
    Price range*
    $170K - $715K
    Typical price*
    $345,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Listing specialist Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos

    Tammy Heckart is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They primarily work with sellers and have closed at least 148 transactions over the past 12 months — 255 in the past two years. Tammy Heckart's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 89% sellers, 11% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 255
    • Local ranking by total sales: #1
    • State ranking by total sales: #4
    • Median days on market: 184 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Tammy Heckart? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Kyle Clarkson

    LPT Realty, LLC
    Recent sales*
    149
    Local sales*
    148
    Price range*
    $110K - $2M
    Typical price*
    $318,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Kyle Clarkson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 74 transactions over the past 12 months — 149 in the past two years. Kyle Clarkson's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 149
    • Local ranking by total sales: #7
    • State ranking by total sales: #19
    • Median days on market: 68 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Kyle Clarkson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Kenny Kauzlarich

    RE/MAX Precision
    Recent sales*
    217
    Local sales*
    209
    Price range*
    $68K - $8.4M
    Typical price*
    $230,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Offer strategyBuyer specialist Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos Manufactured homes Multi-family homes

    Kenny Kauzlarich is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They primarily work with buyers and have closed at least 70 transactions over the past 12 months — 217 in the past two years. Kenny Kauzlarich's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 19% sellers, 81% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 217
    • Local ranking by total sales: #3
    • State ranking by total sales: #6
    • Median days on market: 75 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98.5%

    Are you Kenny Kauzlarich? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Beth Cochran

    Agency Iowa
    Recent sales*
    119
    Local sales*
    115
    Price range*
    $33K - $775K
    Typical price*
    $289,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes

    Beth Cochran is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 73 transactions over the past 12 months — 119 in the past two years. Beth Cochran's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 45% sellers, 55% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 119
    • Local ranking by total sales: #15
    • State ranking by total sales: #31
    • Median days on market: 77 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Beth Cochran? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Jason Rude

    Rude Realty
    Recent sales*
    117
    Local sales*
    114
    Price range*
    $66K - $894K
    Typical price*
    $280,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% localFast sales Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Vacant land Commercial properties

    Jason Rude is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 68 transactions over the past 12 months — 117 in the past two years. Jason Rude's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 55% sellers, 45% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 117
    • Local ranking by total sales: #16
    • State ranking by total sales: #33
    • Median days on market: 53 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Jason Rude? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Laura Slavin

    RE/MAX
    Local sales*
    58
    Price range*
    $40K - $577K
    Typical price*
    $200,049
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Offer strategy Negotiation expert 20+ years experience Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Laura Slavin is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. Laura Slavin has worked in real estate for over 25 years. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 31 transactions over the past 12 months — 58 in the past two years. Laura Slavin's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and VA loans and military buyers.

    • Est. years experience: 25
    • Works with: 43% sellers, 57% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 58
    • Local ranking by total sales: #120
    • State ranking by total sales: #218
    • Median days on market: 82 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%
    • Office address: 2202 Woodlands Pkwy, Clive, IA 50325, USA

    Are you Laura Slavin? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Austin Sullivan

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    101
    Local sales*
    100
    Price range*
    $113K - $800K
    Typical price*
    $310,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Manufactured homes Multi-family homes

    Austin Sullivan is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 54 transactions over the past 12 months — 101 in the past two years. Austin Sullivan's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 55% sellers, 45% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 101
    • Local ranking by total sales: #27
    • State ranking by total sales: #51
    • Median days on market: 57 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Austin Sullivan? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Jenny Farrell

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    108
    Local sales*
    107
    Price range*
    $113K - $950K
    Typical price*
    $306,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% localFast sales Offer strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Jenny Farrell is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 53 transactions over the past 12 months — 108 in the past two years. Jenny Farrell's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 56% sellers, 44% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 108
    • Local ranking by total sales: #20
    • State ranking by total sales: #45
    • Median days on market: 54 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98.5%

    Are you Jenny Farrell? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Seth Walker

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    119
    Price range*
    $141K - $850K
    Typical price*
    $255,100
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Seth Walker is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 60 transactions over the past 12 months — 119 in the past two years. Seth Walker's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 42% sellers, 58% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 119
    • Local ranking by total sales: #13
    • State ranking by total sales: #32
    • Median days on market: 59 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Seth Walker? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Kathy Swanson

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    109
    Local sales*
    107
    Price range*
    $48K - $915K
    Typical price*
    $275,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Offer strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes

    Kathy Swanson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 59 transactions over the past 12 months — 109 in the past two years. Kathy Swanson's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 53% sellers, 47% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 109
    • Local ranking by total sales: #21
    • State ranking by total sales: #42
    • Median days on market: 67 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Kathy Swanson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Kathy Miller

    RE/MAX Precision
    Recent sales*
    58
    Local sales*
    57
    Price range*
    $106K - $855K
    Typical price*
    $315,450
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% localFast sales 10+ years experience Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos

    Kathy Miller is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. Kathy Miller has worked in real estate for over 10 years. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 36 transactions over the past 12 months — 58 in the past two years. Kathy Miller's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Est. years experience: 10
    • Works with: 50% sellers, 50% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 58
    • Local ranking by total sales: #126
    • State ranking by total sales: #217
    • Median days on market: 49 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%
    • Office address: 2202 Woodlands Pkwy, Clive, IA 50325, USA

    Are you Kathy Miller? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Chris Kew

    RE/MAX Precision
    Recent sales*
    114
    Local sales*
    99
    Price range*
    $63K - $1.8M
    Typical price*
    $311,795
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes

    Chris Kew is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 67 transactions over the past 12 months — 114 in the past two years. Chris Kew's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 114
    • Local ranking by total sales: #29
    • State ranking by total sales: #34
    • Median days on market: 74 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Chris Kew? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Susie Sheldahl

    Realty One Group Impact
    Recent sales*
    99
    Local sales*
    86
    Price range*
    $95K - $760K
    Typical price*
    $290,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos

    Susie Sheldahl is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 52 transactions over the past 12 months — 99 in the past two years. Susie Sheldahl's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 48% sellers, 52% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 99
    • Local ranking by total sales: #39
    • State ranking by total sales: #54
    • Median days on market: 68 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Susie Sheldahl? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Amy Wiederin

    LPT Realty, LLC
    Recent sales*
    87
    Local sales*
    84
    Price range*
    $153K - $866K
    Typical price*
    $307,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Amy Wiederin is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 56 transactions over the past 12 months — 87 in the past two years. Amy Wiederin's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 48% sellers, 52% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 87
    • Local ranking by total sales: #42
    • State ranking by total sales: #73
    • Median days on market: 70 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Amy Wiederin? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Sarah Cowman

    Homefront Real Estate, LLC
    Local sales*
    106
    Price range*
    $22K - $21M
    Typical price*
    $271,925
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Sarah Cowman is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 64 transactions over the past 12 months — 106 in the past two years. Sarah Cowman's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 58% sellers, 42% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 106
    • Local ranking by total sales: #22
    • State ranking by total sales: #47
    • Median days on market: 83 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 97.5%

    Are you Sarah Cowman? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Matt Klein

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    97
    Price range*
    $195K - $1.5M
    Typical price*
    $352,990
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Matt Klein is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 39 transactions over the past 12 months — 97 in the past two years. Matt Klein's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 49% sellers, 51% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 97
    • Local ranking by total sales: #31
    • State ranking by total sales: #56
    • Median days on market: 64 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Matt Klein? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Heather Rawlins

    Iowa Realty Colfax
    Recent sales*
    111
    Local sales*
    105
    Price range*
    $27K - $775K
    Typical price*
    $234,900
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Offer strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Heather Rawlins is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 64 transactions over the past 12 months — 111 in the past two years. Heather Rawlins's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 44% sellers, 56% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 111
    • Local ranking by total sales: #23
    • State ranking by total sales: #37
    • Median days on market: 70 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 97%

    Are you Heather Rawlins? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Tony Sly

    Keller Williams Realty GDM
    Recent sales*
    92
    Local sales*
    91
    Price range*
    $87K - $774K
    Typical price*
    $300,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Tony Sly is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 59 transactions over the past 12 months — 92 in the past two years. Tony Sly's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 43% sellers, 57% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 92
    • Local ranking by total sales: #33
    • State ranking by total sales: #64
    • Median days on market: 66 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Tony Sly? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Tim Scheib

    Real Broker, LLC
    Recent sales*
    103
    Local sales*
    101
    Price range*
    $45K - $780K
    Typical price*
    $326,700
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes

    Tim Scheib is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 58 transactions over the past 12 months — 103 in the past two years. Tim Scheib's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 57% sellers, 43% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 103
    • Local ranking by total sales: #26
    • State ranking by total sales: #50
    • Median days on market: 60 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Tim Scheib? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Colby Lawson

    Real Estate Solutions
    Local sales*
    125
    Price range*
    $53K - $465K
    Typical price*
    $185,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Manufactured homes

    Colby Lawson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 73 transactions over the past 12 months — 125 in the past two years. Colby Lawson's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and VA loans and military buyers.

    • Works with: 45% sellers, 55% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 125
    • Local ranking by total sales: #10
    • State ranking by total sales: #25
    • Median days on market: 66 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Colby Lawson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Bob Eisenlauer

    RE/MAX Revolution
    Recent sales*
    124
    Local sales*
    123
    Price range*
    $70K - $820K
    Typical price*
    $262,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% localFast sales Offer strategy Negotiation expert Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Bob Eisenlauer is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 66 transactions over the past 12 months — 124 in the past two years. Bob Eisenlauer's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 65% sellers, 35% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 124
    • Local ranking by total sales: #11
    • State ranking by total sales: #26
    • Median days on market: 50 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Bob Eisenlauer? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Julianna Cullen

    RE/MAX Precision
    Local sales*
    78
    Price range*
    $149K - $1.3M
    Typical price*
    $315,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos

    Julianna Cullen is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 35 transactions over the past 12 months — 78 in the past two years. Julianna Cullen's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 50% sellers, 50% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 78
    • Local ranking by total sales: #57
    • State ranking by total sales: #102
    • Median days on market: 69 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Julianna Cullen? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Dawn Edwards

    Realty ONE Group Impact
    Local sales*
    138
    Price range*
    $107K - $869K
    Typical price*
    $354,990
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Listing specialist Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Dawn Edwards is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 73 transactions over the past 12 months — 138 in the past two years. Dawn Edwards's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 71% sellers, 29% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 138
    • Local ranking by total sales: #8
    • State ranking by total sales: #22
    • Median days on market: 131 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Dawn Edwards? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Mariah Klemp

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    75
    Local sales*
    73
    Price range*
    $85K - $1.6M
    Typical price*
    $291,250
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Pricing strategyFast sales Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Vacant land

    Mariah Klemp is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 36 transactions over the past 12 months — 75 in the past two years. Mariah Klemp's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 48% sellers, 52% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 75
    • Local ranking by total sales: #73
    • State ranking by total sales: #124
    • Median days on market: 50 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Mariah Klemp? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Heather Wright

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    78
    Price range*
    $71K - $915K
    Typical price*
    $295,200
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% localFast sales Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Heather Wright is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 33 transactions over the past 12 months — 78 in the past two years. Heather Wright's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 44% sellers, 56% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 78
    • Local ranking by total sales: #56
    • State ranking by total sales: #101
    • Median days on market: 54 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Heather Wright? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Gina Swanson

    Century 21 Signature
    Local sales*
    83
    Price range*
    $108K - $974K
    Typical price*
    $328,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Pricing strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Gina Swanson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 48 transactions over the past 12 months — 83 in the past two years. Gina Swanson's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 83
    • Local ranking by total sales: #45
    • State ranking by total sales: #87
    • Median days on market: 58 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Gina Swanson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Matt Hennig

    Platinum Realty
    Recent sales*
    34
    Local sales*
    33
    Price range*
    $80K - $650K
    Typical price*
    $262,500
    Highlights
    About
    Negotiation expert 15+ years experience Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Matt Hennig is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. Matt Hennig has worked in real estate for over 15 years. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 13 transactions over the past 12 months — 34 in the past two years. Matt Hennig's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Est. years experience: 15
    • Works with: 50% sellers, 50% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 34
    • Local ranking by total sales: #370
    • State ranking by total sales: #645
    • Median days on market: 74 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%
    • Office address: WDM, IA 50265, USA

    Are you Matt Hennig? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Stephanie Thomas

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    90
    Price range*
    $110K - $2.5M
    Typical price*
    $359,100
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Offer strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Stephanie Thomas is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 48 transactions over the past 12 months — 90 in the past two years. Stephanie Thomas's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 49% sellers, 51% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 90
    • Local ranking by total sales: #35
    • State ranking by total sales: #69
    • Median days on market: 77 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 97%

    Are you Stephanie Thomas? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Stevie Omeara

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    73
    Price range*
    $33K - $1.2M
    Typical price*
    $326,600
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Pricing strategyFast sales Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Stevie Omeara is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 40 transactions over the past 12 months — 73 in the past two years. Stevie Omeara's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 52% sellers, 48% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 73
    • Local ranking by total sales: #74
    • State ranking by total sales: #136
    • Median days on market: 54 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Stevie Omeara? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Eric Quiner

    Realty ONE Group Impact
    Local sales*
    77
    Price range*
    $86K - $1.3M
    Typical price*
    $350,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Offer strategy Negotiation expert Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Eric Quiner is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 40 transactions over the past 12 months — 77 in the past two years. Eric Quiner's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 51% sellers, 49% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 77
    • Local ranking by total sales: #60
    • State ranking by total sales: #110
    • Median days on market: 65 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Eric Quiner? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Lynn Johnson

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    74
    Local sales*
    73
    Price range*
    $127K - $815K
    Typical price*
    $301,050
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% localFast sales Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Lynn Johnson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 34 transactions over the past 12 months — 74 in the past two years. Lynn Johnson's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and VA loans and military buyers.

    • Works with: 45% sellers, 55% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 74
    • Local ranking by total sales: #72
    • State ranking by total sales: #133
    • Median days on market: 50 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Lynn Johnson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Wendl Scott

    RE/MAX Precision
    Local sales*
    89
    Price range*
    $130K - $1.2M
    Typical price*
    $345,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Investor-friendly First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Wendl Scott is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 45 transactions over the past 12 months — 89 in the past two years. Wendl Scott's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 89
    • Local ranking by total sales: #37
    • State ranking by total sales: #71
    • Median days on market: 69 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Wendl Scott? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Renee Dunkel

    Century 21 Signature
    Recent sales*
    83
    Local sales*
    82
    Price range*
    $118K - $2.3M
    Typical price*
    $361,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Pricing strategy Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Renee Dunkel is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 47 transactions over the past 12 months — 83 in the past two years. Renee Dunkel's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 49% sellers, 51% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 83
    • Local ranking by total sales: #49
    • State ranking by total sales: #88
    • Median days on market: 58 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Renee Dunkel? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Angela Meek

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    66
    Price range*
    $86K - $1.2M
    Typical price*
    $302,450
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Angela Meek is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 34 transactions over the past 12 months — 66 in the past two years. Angela Meek's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 55% sellers, 45% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 66
    • Local ranking by total sales: #90
    • State ranking by total sales: #162
    • Median days on market: 65 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Angela Meek? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Dustin Kupka

    RE/MAX Precision
    Recent sales*
    86
    Local sales*
    82
    Price range*
    $118K - $1.4M
    Typical price*
    $370,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes

    Dustin Kupka is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 45 transactions over the past 12 months — 86 in the past two years. Dustin Kupka's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 49% sellers, 51% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 86
    • Local ranking by total sales: #48
    • State ranking by total sales: #76
    • Median days on market: 63 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Dustin Kupka? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Cy Phillips

    Space Simply
    Recent sales*
    163
    Local sales*
    162
    Price range*
    $72K - $3.2M
    Typical price*
    $413,750
    Highlights
    About
    Top 1% local Offer strategy Negotiation expert Listing specialist Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Cy Phillips is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 89 transactions over the past 12 months — 163 in the past two years. Cy Phillips's experience includes luxury homes, sales involving HOAs, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 73% sellers, 27% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 163
    • Local ranking by total sales: #6
    • State ranking by total sales: #16
    • Median days on market: 67 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Cy Phillips? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Michelle Hanson

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    62
    Price range*
    $132K - $1.3M
    Typical price*
    $287,450
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Michelle Hanson is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 38 transactions over the past 12 months — 62 in the past two years. Michelle Hanson's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 50% sellers, 50% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 62
    • Local ranking by total sales: #106
    • State ranking by total sales: #188
    • Median days on market: 83 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Michelle Hanson? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Ryan Rohlf

    Keller Williams Legacy Group
    Recent sales*
    77
    Local sales*
    76
    Price range*
    $75K - $615K
    Typical price*
    $264,900
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Pricing strategyFast sales Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    Ryan Rohlf is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 37 transactions over the past 12 months — 77 in the past two years. Ryan Rohlf's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and VA loans and military buyers.

    • Works with: 53% sellers, 47% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 77
    • Local ranking by total sales: #63
    • State ranking by total sales: #112
    • Median days on market: 54 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%
    • Office address: Johnston, IA 50131, USA

    Are you Ryan Rohlf? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Karla Alaniz

    Keller Williams Realty GDM
    Local sales*
    104
    Price range*
    $42K - $724K
    Typical price*
    $196,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% localFast sales Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes Manufactured homes Vacant land

    Karla Alaniz is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 52 transactions over the past 12 months — 104 in the past two years. Karla Alaniz's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 104
    • Local ranking by total sales: #24
    • State ranking by total sales: #49
    • Median days on market: 56 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Karla Alaniz? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Scott Myers

    Century 21 Signature
    Recent sales*
    86
    Local sales*
    83
    Price range*
    $85K - $915K
    Typical price*
    $336,500
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Manufactured homes

    Scott Myers is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 42 transactions over the past 12 months — 86 in the past two years. Scott Myers's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 56% sellers, 44% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 86
    • Local ranking by total sales: #46
    • State ranking by total sales: #78
    • Median days on market: 56 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Scott Myers? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Chinh Nguyen

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Recent sales*
    58
    Local sales*
    56
    Price range*
    $101K - $549K
    Typical price*
    $289,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Pricing strategyFast sales Offer strategy Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Chinh Nguyen is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 23 transactions over the past 12 months — 58 in the past two years. Chinh Nguyen's experience includes first-time homebuyers, sales involving HOAs, and properties in senior communities.

    • Works with: 50% sellers, 50% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 58
    • Local ranking by total sales: #130
    • State ranking by total sales: #214
    • Median days on market: 52 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Chinh Nguyen? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Jen Stanbrough

    RE/MAX Precision
    Local sales*
    90
    Price range*
    $30K - $1.7M
    Typical price*
    $347,450
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% localFast sales Neighborhood expert Repeat clients Luxury homes HOA experience Military buyers First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Vacant land

    Jen Stanbrough is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 50 transactions over the past 12 months — 90 in the past two years. Jen Stanbrough's experience includes sales involving HOAs, luxury homes, and first-time homebuyers.

    • Works with: 44% sellers, 56% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 90
    • Local ranking by total sales: #34
    • State ranking by total sales: #67
    • Median days on market: 54 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Jen Stanbrough? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Chris Chiaramonte

    Century 21 Signature
    Local sales*
    64
    Price range*
    $72K - $1.8M
    Typical price*
    $271,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Chris Chiaramonte is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 34 transactions over the past 12 months — 64 in the past two years. Chris Chiaramonte's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 48% sellers, 52% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 64
    • Local ranking by total sales: #96
    • State ranking by total sales: #173
    • Median days on market: 57 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 98%

    Are you Chris Chiaramonte? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Top Local Pro

    Julie Moore

    RE/MAX Concepts
    Local sales*
    78
    Price range*
    $95K - $971K
    Typical price*
    $345,995
    Highlights
    About
    Top 5% localFast sales Offer strategy Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Senior living Single-family homes Condos

    Julie Moore is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 47 transactions over the past 12 months — 78 in the past two years. Julie Moore's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 47% sellers, 53% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 78
    • Local ranking by total sales: #58
    • State ranking by total sales: #103
    • Median days on market: 55 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you Julie Moore? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • Chase Vanloon

    LPT Realty, LLC
    Recent sales*
    72
    Local sales*
    70
    Price range*
    $145K - $770K
    Typical price*
    $359,950
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos

    Chase Vanloon is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 44 transactions over the past 12 months — 72 in the past two years. Chase Vanloon's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 51% sellers, 49% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 72
    • Local ranking by total sales: #79
    • State ranking by total sales: #138
    • Median days on market: 92 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 100%

    Are you Chase Vanloon? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

  • David Rodriguez

    RE/MAX Precision
    Recent sales*
    67
    Local sales*
    65
    Price range*
    $135K - $840K
    Typical price*
    $275,000
    Highlights
    About
    Top 10% local Neighborhood expert Repeat clients HOA experience First-time buyers Single-family homes Condos Multi-family homes

    David Rodriguez is a real estate agent who is primarily active in Des Moines, IA. They work with sellers and buyers and have closed at least 32 transactions over the past 12 months — 67 in the past two years. David Rodriguez's experience includes sales involving HOAs, first-time homebuyers, and luxury homes.

    • Works with: 54% sellers, 46% buyers
    • Total recent sales: 67
    • Local ranking by total sales: #93
    • State ranking by total sales: #157
    • Median days on market: 65 days
    • Median sale-to-list ratio: 99%

    Are you David Rodriguez? Fill out this form to claim your profile or offer a correction.

What to know about top real estate agents in Des Moines, IA

Top Des Moines real estate agents combine deep, local expertise with higher-than-average performance. Here’s what that looks like in Des Moines. 

General 

  • High transaction volume: Does more than 17 sales per year (local median)
  • Well established: At least 3–5+ years of experience in the local market
  • Good reputation: High total review count and average ratings

Sellers

  • Pricing expertise: Few-to-no price drops 
  • High sale-to-list ratios: Typically sells near or above list price (median sale-to-list in Des Moines is 99%)
  • Strong marketing strategy: Beautiful photos, compelling listing descriptions, maximum visibility
  • Faster-than-average sales: Gets homes under contract quickly (median sale timeline in Des Moines is 69 days)

Buyers

  • Strong negotiator: The best buyer’s agents in Des Moines often save 5-10% off list price
  • Local expertise: Know neighborhoods, schools, amenities, regulations
  • Responsive and accessible: Reviews consistently call out these specific traits

Most likely, yes. The vast majority of home sellers in Des Moines will get the best outcome and most money selling with a top local real estate agent. That said, it really depends on your goals.

Consider listing with a Des Moines realtor if:

  • You're aiming for top dollar or need help navigating pricing and offers
  • You want someone to handle the full process—marketing, showings, negotiation, paperwork
  • Your property is typical for the area and priced at or above $200,000

Consider alternatives if:

  • You want a faster sale and are open to a cash offer from a cash home buyer or iBuyer
  • You’re cost-conscious and want to save on commission with a discount real estate broker
  • You want to avoid realtor commission altogether and are comfortable trying FSBO (for sale by owner), knowing that FSBO sales usually net less and require a lot of work.

In Des Moines, the average real estate commission is about 5.84%, while the national average is (5.7%).

  • Typically, this gets split between the listing and buyer’s agents (2.96% and 2.88%, respectively).
  • Rates are negotiable and may be lower for higher-priced homes or repeat clients.
  • Following the NAR settlement, buyers may need to negotiate their agent's fee directly.

Sell with a top agent and save

With Clever, sellers can list with a top local agent for just 1.5% (or $3,000 flat) — up to 50% less than the typical rate in Des Moines.

Before signing with an agent, it pays to ask a few pointed questions. Kathy Miller, a Des Moines real estate agent, emphasizes asking about what matters most: "[Look for] experience, reputation [through client reviews], and knowledge. [The] questions I'm usually asked [are]: how long have you been a realtor, how many houses have you sold this year, and how will you market my home?" The answers to these questions will tell you a lot about whether an agent is truly invested in your outcome.

If you’re both selling a home and purchasing a new one, using the same agent can simplify the process. But you’ll need to find an agent with a successful track record as both a listing agent and a buyer’s agent. While some real estate agents do both, some of the best real estate professionals specialize in either representing buyers or listing properties

If a traditional agent isn’t the right fit, here are some Des Moines-area alternatives:

Cash buyer services

  • Get fast, no-obligation offers from investors, iBuyers, and bridge loan providers.
  • Ideal for distressed homes, tight timelines, or sellers prioritizing speed over top price.

Discount brokerages

  • Offer lower commissions (often 1–2%) while still providing MLS access and support.
  • Good option if you want to save but still prefer professional help.

Flat-Fee MLS (FFMLS)

  • Pay a one-time fee to list your home on the MLS.
  • You'll handle pricing, showings, and negotiation yourself — best for experienced sellers.

For Sale By Owner (FSBO)

  • No agent involvement, no commission—but you’ll do everything yourself.
  • FSBO homes typically sell for less, so weigh potential savings vs. final sale price.

Pro tip: Even if you go non-traditional, consider services like Clever or local offer platforms — they help you compare your options and connect with agents or investors offering discounts, fast offers, or both.

Des Moines, Iowa is currently a buyer's market, due to fewer active homebuyers and more homes available for sale.

  • The market has an average of 5.1 months of supply, meaning it would take about that long for all available homes to sell if no new listings were added. There were 4,115 homes for sale in Des Moines in the last month. Sellers added 303 new listings, and 196 home sales closed in that time.
  • On average, properties spend 69 days on the market, and it takes 51 days for a home to go under contract.

Homes in Des Moines, Iowa are selling for more on average compared to the previous month. More sellers reduced their listing price this month compared to last month.

  • 285 homes dropped in price this month. That's around 7% of all homes on the market, compared to the 4.96% of listings that lowered prices the month before.
  • The median home in Des Moines, Iowa ultimately sells for $302,000 – 0.78% less than its original list price.

In February 2026, we asked Kathy Miller, a Des Moines real estate agent, for their thoughts on the local real estate market. They said, "A lot of price reductions, increased [days on market], and buyers have more negotiating room. I predict this year to be similar to 2025 but more balanced. It would be nice to see interest rates go down." For buyers, that shift means more leverage at the negotiating table, while sellers may need to adjust expectations and price more strategically.

Related guides and resources

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Best Flat Fee MLS Listing Companies in Des Moines, Iowa (2026)

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Average Real Estate Commission in Iowa: 2026 Survey

A February 2026 survey of local real estate agents revealed the average real estate commission in Iowa is 5.84%, which is higher than the national average of 5.70%.

Seller Closing Costs in Iowa: 2026 Update

On average, sellers in Iowa pay about 2.60% of the home's purchase price in closing costs. Find out what you'll pay with our Iowa seller's closing costs calculator.

Selling a House in Iowa: 8 Simple Steps

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How to Sell My House Fast in Iowa

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How to Sell My House As Is in Iowa

If you’re considering selling your Iowa home "as is" but aren’t sure if it’s the best option for you, check out the pros and cons, and what you can expect.

8 Steps to Buying a House in Iowa

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Find more top agents in cities near Des Moines, IA

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How we research and evaluate top realtors in Des Moines

Data sources

Our rankings are powered by real estate transaction data, internal research, and other publicly available sources. We compiled and analyzed over 3,913,400 data points for 1,507 real estate agents across Des Moines, Iowa.

We make every effort to ensure accuracy, but no dataset is perfect. Some activity may not be captured if information isn’t available or accurate from our sources. We update and refine our data regularly to improve coverage and reliability.

Methodology

There’s no single “best” real estate agent — the right fit depends on your goals and situation. Our approach is designed to highlight agents with strong, well-rounded performance and make it easier to compare real estate agents in Des Moines.

We look at factors that matter most to typical buyers and sellers, such as:

  • Transaction volume and recent activity
  • Balance of buyer- and seller-side representation
  • Pricing accuracy and negotiation outcomes
  • Speed of sales relative to the local market
  • Years of experience and proven track record
  • Specialized expertise with certain property types or client needs

We use these key indicators to surface agents who are likely to be a good fit for most people, while giving you the data you need to decide which qualities matter most for your own situation.

Ongoing updates

Rankings are updated regularly as new data becomes available. Our goal is to provide a clear, objective view of agent performance to help you make an informed choice when hiring a real estate professional.

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