Cody Voga, Realtor

Cody Voga, Realtor CENTURY 21 Signature Real Estate |
Licensed in the State of Iowa

One of the biggest misconceptions about selling a home is that if it doesn't sell right away, you can always adjust late...
05/26/2026

One of the biggest misconceptions about selling a home is that if it doesn't sell right away, you can always adjust later.

While that's true, the first few weeks on the market are incredibly important.

That's when your home gets the most attention. It's when buyers are the most curious. And it's often when you have the strongest negotiating position.

When a home sits longer than expected, buyers naturally start asking questions. Sometimes there's a legitimate reason. Other times there isn't. But perception can influence offers just as much as reality.

That's why it is so important to have a solid plan before a home ever hits the market.

The right pricing strategy. Thoughtful preparation. Strong marketing. Professional presentation.

Selling a home isn't about putting a sign in the yard and hoping for the best. It's about creating the right first impression and putting yourself in the strongest position possible from day one.

If you're thinking about selling in Des Moines, Ankeny, or anywhere in the surrounding area, I'd be happy to talk through what a smart listing strategy might look like for your home.

05/21/2026

🤳 Virtual with Voga: 1712 E 1st St., Huxley 🏡

If luxury acreage living is your style, you need to see this home just outside of Huxley.

This property stood out immediately for the combination of high-end finishes, usable space, and everything happening outside the home itself.

This is one of those properties that offers a little bit of everything — privacy, functionality, and luxury — while still being a short drive to Ames and the Des Moines metro.

My goal with Virtual with Voga is to give people a closer look at homes around central Iowa and help you stay connected to what’s happening in the market, whether you’re actively looking or just enjoy seeing what’s out there.

If you’d ever like more information on a property or want to see homes that fit what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out anytime.

Before you renovate to sell… read this first 👇Not every home project adds the value people think it does.When someone st...
05/20/2026

Before you renovate to sell… read this first 👇

Not every home project adds the value people think it does.

When someone starts getting ready to sell, one of the first questions is usually: What should I fix or update before listing?

The answer is, it depends. Some smaller updates can go a long way, while some major renovations don’t always pay off the way people expect.

A fresh coat of paint, cleaned-up landscaping, or even a simple exterior update can make a stronger first impression than a much more expensive remodel.

On the other hand, big projects like a full kitchen renovation or luxury bathroom overhaul may look great, but they don’t always lead to a higher sale price that justifies the cost.

That’s why before listing a home, I like to walk through it with sellers and talk through what’s actually worth doing based on the market, the home, and what buyers are looking for in that area.

The goal isn’t to spend more, it’s to spend smart.

If you’ve ever wondered what updates are worth it before selling in Ankeny, Des Moines, or nearby, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to talk through it.

A lot of people assume a home deal falls through because someone changes their mind.More often, it’s what comes up durin...
05/18/2026

A lot of people assume a home deal falls through because someone changes their mind.

More often, it’s what comes up during the inspection. 🔎🛠️

In fact, inspection and repair issues are one of the biggest reasons contracts don’t make it to the closing table.

That doesn’t mean homes are falling apart — it just means inspections often uncover things buyers weren’t expecting, or create conversations around repairs, costs, and next steps.

The truth is, almost every inspection turns up something. That’s normal.

For buyers, it’s a chance to better understand the home and make sure there aren’t surprises after move-in.

For sellers, it’s a good reminder that taking care of maintenance and preparing your home ahead of time can make a big difference once you’re under contract.

A home inspection isn’t about finding a “perfect” house — it’s about having the right information and someone in your corner to help you navigate what comes next.

If you’re ever curious about what inspections usually uncover, what’s worth negotiating, or what’s just part of homeownership, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help.

05/17/2026

SPEED TOUR 🏃‍♂️💨

This (spacious) home in SW Ankeny really took my breath away. Maybe it will do the same for you, too.

Message me for a private showing! We can really slow it down and take our time.

I will always tell people not to sell, not to buy, and to stay put when that it is the smartest move for their goals.Eve...
05/14/2026

I will always tell people not to sell, not to buy, and to stay put when that it is the smartest move for their goals.

Everyone’s situation is completely different, which is exactly why a one-sentence answer never tells you what you actually need to know.

Two people can ask the same “How’s the market?” question and get totally different advice… because their timelines, goals, and life plans aren’t the same.

That’s why it’s so important to talk it through with a professional you trust.

Someone who will look at your full picture and help you understand what the best move is, even when the best move is NOT to buy or sell right now.

My DMs are always open if you want to talk through your situation.

I'm Cody Voga – Des Moines local and real estate agent. Follow for listings and real, practical guidance for navigating this market.

05/13/2026

🤳 Virtual with Voga: 2005 North Dakota Ave., Ames 🏡

Welcome to the first edition of Virtual with Voga — a quick look at homes around central Iowa that stand out for one reason or another.

This listing by Ro Smith, Realtor with Century 21 Signature Real Estate at 2005 North Dakota Ave in Ames caught my eye for the amount of space, privacy, and flexibility it offers just outside of town. With over 3,000 square feet, multiple living spaces, mature trees, and a massive detached garage, it’s the kind of property that offers a little something different than your typical in-town home.

My goal with this series is simple: help you stay connected to what’s on the market and give you a closer look at homes across the area, whether you’re actively looking, casually browsing, or just curious about what’s out there.

If there’s ever a property you want to know more about, or if you’re starting to think about buying in Ames, Ankeny, or the greater Des Moines metro, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to be a resource.

Summer is one of the most competitive times to buy in the Des Moines metro.The kids are out of school, some people have ...
05/12/2026

Summer is one of the most competitive times to buy in the Des Moines metro.

The kids are out of school, some people have more work flexibility, and inventory levels are stable.

Here's what I want you to know if you're thinking about making a move this summer...

→ The best ones move fast. Be ready to move quickly, have your financing locked, and your priorities clear.

→ Homeowners selling in the summer are often working around tight deadlines. School starting, a job change, or a move already in motion. When we understand what they need, we can structure an offer that stands out without necessarily paying more.

→ Competition can create pressure to cut corners. A bidding war doesn't mean the house is perfect. Protect yourself and get the inspection.

A summer move is absolutely doable. You just need to go in prepared (with a good agent on your side!)

Thinking about making a move this summer? Send me a DM and let's make a plan.

05/11/2026

In my fuel-efficient era 🛴⛽️

🏡 OPEN HOUSE in Ankeny this Saturday!📅 Saturday, May 9⏰ 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM📍 4509 SW Sawgrass PkwyIf you’ve been looking ...
05/08/2026

🏡 OPEN HOUSE in Ankeny this Saturday!

📅 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
📍 4509 SW Sawgrass Pkwy

If you’ve been looking for space, functionality, and a great location in SW Ankeny, this one is worth a look.

✔️ Over 2,500 sq ft
✔️ 3 bedrooms + finished lower level
✔️ Spacious primary suite
✔️ Fully fenced backyard + large deck
✔️ Flexible spaces for a home office, gym, or additional living area
✔️ Minutes from Prairie Trail, shopping, dining, and easy access to I-80 and Des Moines

This home offers a great mix of comfort, space, and convenience in one of Ankeny’s most popular areas.

Stop by Saturday and come take a look. I’d love to show you around!

Here's the scoop 🍨The Ankeny market is shifting, and that creates opportunity for both buyers and sellers.📉 Median sold ...
05/07/2026

Here's the scoop 🍨

The Ankeny market is shifting, and that creates opportunity for both buyers and sellers.

📉 Median sold price: $329,000
⏱️ Average days on market: 88
💰 Sellers are still getting 99% of asking price on average

So what does that actually mean?

For buyers: prices cooled a bit in April, but well-priced homes are still moving quickly. If you’ve been waiting for the market to settle down, this could be a window of opportunity.

For sellers: strategy matters more than ever right now. Proper pricing, strong presentation, and understanding what buyers want can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells, and for how much.

The market is always changing, but having the right guidance can help you make smart decisions no matter which side you’re on.

If you’re curious what this means for your specific situation in Ankeny or the greater Des Moines area, feel free to message me anytime.

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Ankeny, IA
50023

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