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Real Estate Broker/Owner
Denise Hamlin, Broker/Owner
Helping buyers and sellers in and around Iowa City. My special area of expertise is relocation. Forward thinking and tech savvy I'm known for my attention to detail in a real estate transaction.
Office: (319) 400-0268
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Real Estate Agent
Karen Feltman
I specialize in relocating families to and within the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area. I focus on the details for you!
Cell: 319-521-0701
Office: 319-423-4139
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All About Iowa Real Estate

By inboundREM Market Updates
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Luxury Living and Lakefront Dreams: A Guide to Okoboji Condos for SaleIf you have ever spent a summer morning watching the mist rise off West Okoboji Lake or enjoyed a sunset over East Okoboji with a glass of wine in hand, you know that this region isn't just a vacation spot—it is a lifestyle. As a local realtor who has spent years helping families find their perfect slice of the Iowa Great Lakes, I have seen the market evolve significantly. Right now, the demand for okoboji condos for sale is reaching a new peak as buyers increasingly prioritize convenience, community, and unparalleled access to the water without the maintenance of a sprawling estate.Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for a seasonal retreat, a retiree ready to downsize into a maintenance-free luxury unit, or a ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Your Guide to Finding the Best Okoboji Lake Homes for SaleFinding the perfect home in the Iowa Great Lakes region is about more than just square footage and floor plans; it is about securing a piece of a legacy. As a local realtor who has spent years navigating these shores, I have seen how the market for okoboji lake homes for sale has evolved into one of the most prestigious and sought-after real estate landscapes in the Midwest. Whether you are searching for a high-end estate on the "blue water" of West Lake or a vibrant, social condo on East Lake, the process of buying or selling here requires a deep understanding of the unique nuances that each body of water offers.The Iowa Great Lakes, which include West Okoboji, East Okoboji, Spirit Lake, and several smaller gems, provide a diver...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Menlo Iowa homes for saleWhen buyers ask about Menlo Iowa homes for sale, they are usually looking for a simpler kind of market. Most want a small-town setting, practical home prices, and a community that still feels personal. Menlo offers exactly that. The city’s official site uses the slogan “A town of few & friend to all,” and recent U.S. Census estimates put the population at 347 in 2024, very close to the 2020 count of 345. Why Menlo appeals to certain buyersMenlo works best for buyers who want room to slow down. This is not a fast-moving suburban market. Instead, it is a small Guthrie County community where the value often comes from pace, familiarity, and ease of day-to-day living. Guthrie County describes itself as part of the Des Moines metropolitan area, and Guthrie County Tou...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Homes for Sale in Lake Panorama IAWhen buyers ask about homes for sale in Lake Panorama IA, they are usually not asking for a typical small-town home search. More often, they want lake access, stronger amenities, and a setting that feels like a getaway without giving up day-to-day function. Lake Panorama offers that mix. The Lake Panorama Association says the community is the largest private lake development in Iowa, with 1,160 acres of lake surface within the development, more than 30 miles of shoreline, and more than 1,100 residences. Why Lake Panorama Stands OutLake Panorama feels different because the community was planned around the lake itself. That sounds obvious, but it matters. Some lake markets feel pieced together over time. Lake Panorama feels more intentional. The associati...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Homes for Sale on Big Spirit LakeWhen buyers ask me about homes for sale on Big Spirit Lake, they are usually looking for more than a waterfront address. They want a home that delivers daily access to the lake, a setting that feels established rather than trendy, and a part of northwest Iowa that still holds its appeal after the first summer. Big Spirit Lake offers exactly that. It is the largest natural lake in Iowa, part of the Iowa Great Lakes region, and closely tied to communities that support boating, fishing, parks, and year-round recreation. Why Big Spirit Lake Appeals to BuyersAs a local realtor, I think one of the biggest strengths of this market is the lake itself. Big Spirit Lake covers 5,684 acres, which gives it a very different feel from smaller lakes in the region. The o...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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East Lake Okoboji homes for saleIf you are comparing East Lake Okoboji homes for sale, you are really comparing a lifestyle as much as a property. East Lake Okoboji sits in Iowa’s Great Lakes region, covers about 1,835 acres, and connects to West Lake Okoboji, which gives homeowners access to one of the most recognizable lake settings in the state. It is also widely described as Iowa’s longest natural lake, which helps explain why this stretch of shoreline keeps drawing buyers who want boating, fishing, relaxing water views, and a home that feels tied to something bigger than a subdivision. Why buyers keep coming back to East LakeFrom a real estate standpoint, East Lake has a practical advantage that matters. It offers the lake experience people want, but it also puts them in the middle...
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Okoboji Real Estate Zillow: Your Ultimate Guide to Homes in OkobojiNestled in the scenic Iowa Great Lakes region, Okoboji has become a sought-after destination for homebuyers looking to experience the charm of lakeside living, with its stunning views, recreational activities, and close-knit community. If you're interested in exploring Okoboji real estate Zillow offers, you'll find an abundance of properties ranging from vacation homes to luxurious lakefront estates. Zillow is an excellent resource for browsing properties, understanding market trends, and making informed decisions when buying or selling real estate in Okoboji. This guide will walk you through how to make the most of Zillow for your Okoboji real estate search. Why Zillow is the Leading Platform for Okoboji Real Estate Lis...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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West Lake Okoboji vs Spirit Lake Real EstateWhen buyers compare west lake okoboji vs spirit lake real estate, they are usually deciding between two of the most desirable and well-established lake markets in the Iowa Great Lakes region. As a local Okoboji-area realtor, I work with buyers and sellers on both lakes every year, and while these markets are closely connected, they offer very different ownership experiences, price dynamics, and long-term considerations.Both lakes sit within Dickinson County and share access to the same vibrant regional lifestyle. However, the type of buyer each lake attracts, the housing inventory, and the investment profile can vary significantly. Understanding these differences is critical before choosing where to buy or how to price a home for sale.Understa...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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East Lake Okoboji Homes for SaleWhen buyers begin exploring East Lake Okoboji homes for sale, they are usually drawn by the promise of peaceful waterfront living paired with the long-term stability of one of Iowa’s most respected lake communities. As a local realtor who works throughout the Iowa Great Lakes region, I regularly help buyers and sellers navigate this market, and East Lake Okoboji consistently stands out for its quieter character, natural shoreline, and enduring appeal.Located just east of its more active counterpart, East Lake Okoboji offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still providing direct access to the same clean, spring-fed waters that make the Okoboji area so desirable. For buyers seeking a refined lake experience that balances recreation with privacy, Ea...
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West Lake Okoboji Homes for SaleWhen buyers start searching for West Lake Okoboji homes for sale, they are usually looking for more than just a house. They are looking for a lifestyle defined by water views, boating culture, and a close-knit lakeside community that feels established yet welcoming. As a local realtor who works extensively around the Iowa Great Lakes, I have seen firsthand why West Lake Okoboji continues to attract both full-time residents and second-home buyers year after year.Located in Dickinson County, West Lake Okoboji is the most developed and active of the Okoboji lakes. It offers deep, clear water, miles of shoreline, and a mix of residential neighborhoods that range from historic cottages to newly built luxury estates. Whether you are relocating permanently, upgr...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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If you are exploring homes near Iowa’s most well-known private lake community, understanding lake panorama subdivisions is an essential first step. As a local Realtor based in Panora, IA, I work with buyers and sellers who are often surprised by how diverse the neighborhoods around Lake Panorama really are. Each subdivision has its own character, price range, lake access options, and long-term value considerations.Lake Panorama is not a single, uniform neighborhood. It is a collection of distinct subdivisions that surround the lake and the broader Panora area. Knowing how these subdivisions differ helps buyers choose the right fit and helps sellers position their property accurately in the market. This guide is designed to give you a clear, practical overview of lake panorama subdivisio...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Okoboji Property Values 2026 and What They Mean for YouOkoboji Property Values 2026 are a frequent topic of conversation among buyers and sellers who want clarity before making a move in one of Iowa’s most distinctive lake communities. As a local Okoboji realtor, I spend a lot of time helping clients understand how the market is evolving, what is driving value, and how different property types are performing across the lakes. Whether you are considering a purchase, planning a sale, or simply tracking long-term trends, understanding the factors shaping Okoboji property values in 2026 is essential.Okoboji is not a one-size-fits-all market. Waterfront homes, lake-access properties, condos, and inland residences all behave differently. Add in second-home demand, limited shoreline inventory,...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Okoboji Homes for Sale with lake access on East Lake Okoboji, IAIf you are looking at okoboji homes for sale with lake access, you are already thinking like a smart lake buyer. On East Lake Okoboji, the phrase “lake access” can mean several different things, and the details are what determine convenience, resale appeal, and long-term enjoyment. As a local realtor, I see buyers fall in love with the idea of lake life quickly. The buyers who stay happiest are the ones who define exactly what access means for their lifestyle, then match it to the right property type.This guide breaks down the most common lake-access setups around East Lake Okoboji, what to look for during tours, and how to buy (or sell) with clarity in a market where the water connection drives real value.Why East Lake Oko...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Homes for Sale in Okoboji: What Buyers and Sellers Should KnowIf you are searching for homes for sale in Okoboji, you are probably looking for more than just a house. You are looking for a lifestyle that revolves around the lakes, summer energy, and a community that still feels personal even when it is busy. As a local realtor, I see Okoboji attract two types of buyers over and over: people relocating for a slower pace with strong quality-of-life perks, and people buying a second home who want a place that will actually get used.Okoboji is a market where the “right fit” matters as much as the price. Lake access, views, slip and dock considerations, short-term rental rules in certain areas, and seasonal wear-and-tear can all change what a home is worth to you. This guide breaks down the ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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West Lake vs East Lake Okoboji Living: What Buyers Should KnowIf you are researching west lake vs east lake okoboji living, you are already asking the right question. Lake life here is not one-size-fits-all, and the differences between West Lake Okoboji and East Lake Okoboji can shape everything from your daily routine to your boating experience to the type of home you end up loving. As a local realtor in Okoboji, I see buyers fall in love with both lakes for different reasons, and the “best” choice usually comes down to how you actually plan to use your property.Okoboji is part of the Iowa Great Lakes, and West and East Lake Okoboji sit in the same vacation and lifestyle orbit. But they do not feel identical on the water, along the shoreline, or in the housing options that tend to sho...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Why the Lake Panorama Association Matters for Homebuyers Exploring Panora, IAAnyone who has spent time near the shores of Lake Panorama quickly learns that the lake panorama association plays a key role in shaping the quality of life for residents. As a local realtor serving the Panora area, I often work with buyers who are drawn to Lake Panorama for its private setting, beautiful water views, extensive amenities, and strong sense of community. Whether someone is searching for a year-round residence or a seasonal place to unwind, understanding the Lake Panorama Association—its rules, structure, and benefits—helps buyers make more confident decisions.Lake Panorama is unique: it’s the largest private lake in Iowa, and its exclusivity is part of what makes the community so appealing. The a...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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East Okoboji Lake and Its Unique Lakeside LifestyleEast Okoboji Lake is one of those rare places where the beauty of the water, the rhythm of small-town life, and the comfort of established neighborhoods all blend together seamlessly. As a local realtor, I’ve seen many home buyers fall in love with East Okoboji because it offers a calmer, more relaxed environment than the bustling shores of West Lake while still delivering the same access to the Iowa Great Lakes’ most valued amenities. The lake stretches north to south and creates a backdrop that shapes daily life—morning coffee with lake views, afternoons on the boat, and peaceful evenings listening to water lap against the shoreline.The appeal of this lake often surprises newcomers. Even families who originally plan to explore homes t...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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Okoboji Camping and the Appeal of Lakeside LivingOkoboji camping is one of the most memorable ways to experience the Iowa Great Lakes, especially for families who want to stay close to nature while enjoying the charm of lakefront towns. As a local realtor, I find that many home buyers exploring Okoboji are drawn in not only by lake homes and friendly neighborhoods, but also by the outdoor lifestyle that defines this region. Camping is a big part of that identity. Whether you prefer pitching a tent beneath tall oak trees, parking an RV steps from the shoreline, or reserving a cozy cabin for a weekend retreat, the area gives you a taste of the lifestyle locals enjoy year-round.What makes camping in Okoboji so appealing is the sheer variety of landscapes. You can walk from a shaded forest ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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West Lake Okoboji Real Estate: Your Local Guide to Buying and SellingWest Lake Okoboji real estate represents one of the most exclusive and desirable waterfront markets in the Midwest. Located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region, this community blends upscale lakefront living, small-town charm, and seasonal vibrancy. Families, investors, and second-home seekers are drawn to the pristine blue water, strong tourism economy, and limited supply of waterfront property — all of which preserve long-term home value. Whether you’re settling in full-time or purchasing a lake home as a seasonal retreat, the West Lake Okoboji lifestyle delivers the perfect combination of recreation, privacy, and investment potential.Understanding West Lake Okoboji and Its LifestyleWest Lake Okoboji is renow...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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West Lake Okoboji Home ValuesWest Lake Okoboji home values are defined by one thing above all: the rare combination of pristine shoreline, deep spring-fed waters, and a lifestyle that blends family-friendly recreation with luxury lakefront living. As a local realtor serving West Lake Okoboji, I meet home buyers and sellers who are looking not just for a property, but for a place where memories are made—morning coffee on the dock, boat rides at sunset, and summers spent within walking distance of parks, trails, and beloved local restaurants. Those quality-of-life benefits shape the market here, and understanding current property values helps you make the most informed decision when it’s time to buy or sell.What Makes West Lake Okoboji Real Estate So Valuable?Few markets in Iowa compare t...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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West Lake Okoboji Real Estate: A Local Realtor’s Guide to Lakefront LivingWest Lake Okoboji real estate offers something truly special: a blend of natural beauty, lakefront recreation, and a welcoming year-round community. As a local real estate professional, I’ve seen how quickly people fall in love with this deep-blue glacial lake and the lifestyle that surrounds it. Whether you’re searching for a full-time residence, a seasonal getaway, or an investment property, West Lake Okoboji promises a rare opportunity to own a piece of one of Iowa’s most treasured destinations.What Makes West Lake Okoboji UniqueWest Lake Okoboji isn’t just another lake town. The water is famously spring-fed and crystal clear, giving the shoreline an almost coastal feel. Locals and visitors alike find life cent...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
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White Oak School District: A Trusted Name in East Texas EducationFamilies considering a move to Longview, Texas often begin their search by looking into the White Oak School District. Known for its tight-knit community, strong academic programs, and supportive environment, this district consistently earns praise from parents and educators alike. Whether you’re a home buyer searching for a family-friendly neighborhood or a seller wanting to highlight proximity to quality schools, understanding what makes White Oak ISD special can help guide your real estate decisions.Overview of the White Oak School DistrictLocated just northwest of downtown Longview, the White Oak School District (White Oak ISD) serves the residents of White Oak and parts of Gregg County. The district is small compared ...
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