Here is link to my favorite links page, and from there, if you select the entry for Des Moines Anti-Bubble Research,  you can open a PDF document published about RE values in Des Moines.   It's for the analytical types who want more info than what will be available in the local newspapers. 

I also keep very accurate info for an area I call my "Listing Prospect Farm" area -- from 34th to 48th, and from Hickman to the Freeway.  A big area of approximately 2000 homes but this gives me enough inputs so that my data is less skewed.   Good reliable data on local real estate trends is hard to find, but that's why I keep it, and usually use this to help me to provide an accurate "Maximum Market Value Report". 

We never had a "bubble" in the Des Moines or Central Iowa Market, so it's highly improbably for us to have a "bust".   A slow down, however, is indeed happening as we are either in Phase II of a Seller's market, or Phase I of a Buyer's market.   

It doesn't really matter to me where we are in the cycle, but knowing where we are would be very important to RE clients.   I'm working with many investors who are starting to see the opportunities.  I love helping people begin the journey, or to continue on by making prudent business decisions. 

Knowing your local RE market is one of those and documents like these can help!