The Real Estate Store

06/18/2026

Is It Still a Seller's Market? Here's What the Data Says.

Right now, local markets are moving in very different directions. And your strategy as a buyer or seller should reflect your market.

Want to know which way our local market is leaning and what that means for your move? Let's connect.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us.

06/17/2026

Traditional home with that building you have been looking for.
Welcome to this spacious detached 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offering 1,424 sq ft of comfortable living space. Each bedroom features a large floor plan and generous closets, providing ample storage and room to relax. Enjoy evenings on the deck, perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining. For those who need extra space for projects, hobbies, or storage, the property includes an alley access 780 sq ft detached heated shop, a 360 sq ft detached building, and a 400 sq ft garage-ideal for vehicles, a workshop, or additional storage solutions. Appliances included. Don't miss your chance to own this versatile property with plenty of space both inside and out. Schedule your viewing today!
The Real Estate Store
701 w Townline Ste B
Creston, IA 50801
Ruth M. Bolinger
Broker IA Licensed
641-782-4935

06/17/2026

Putting off buying a home? Maybe you're waiting for a crash to get a better deal – or afraid you'll buy now and watch your home's value fall later.

Either way, the widespread drop you're bracing for may not be coming.

Yes, a few markets are seeing mild declines. But more than 100 economists and housing experts expect home prices will actually rise nationally over the next five years – not fall.

And waiting for a deal that never comes could mean passing up the chance to gain thousands in equity or paying more in a few years for the same home.

So before you decide to wait, let's talk about your options and what prices are really doing in our area.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

06/16/2026

Home Prices Are Rising in 71% of Markets

Even though you may be hearing talk about prices crashing online, it’s not true nationally. While some areas are seeing slight declines, prices are still going up in 71% of markets. That means the majority are seeing prices rise, not fall. So, don’t believe everything you hear online. If you want the truth, lean on the pros.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

06/15/2026

A few years ago, sellers could say "no" to just about everything a buyer asked for.

No repairs.
No concessions.
No negotiation.

Today? The market looks a little different.

Zillow says 67% of sellers pay some or all of their buyer's closing costs.

That doesn't mean every seller should do it. But it does mean the most successful sellers today understand something important:

The market has shifted. And that's means negotiation is back on the table.

Sometimes helping with closing costs makes sense. Sometimes another concession is the better move. But it’s normal for today’s market to require some give and take.

The key is knowing what buyers are asking for in your area, and which compromises are actually worth making.

Want to know what sellers in our area are negotiating right now? Send a message or drop a comment below.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

06/15/2026

Should You Pay for Your Buyer’s Closing Costs? What Sellers Need To Know.

The sellers having the most success today are the ones who understand the market has changed and are adapting to meet it where it is.

Sometimes that means negotiating on closing costs. Sometimes it means offering something else. The key is knowing which concessions are worth it for our local market.

If you’re wondering what's normal in our area, what's worth negotiating, and where it makes sense to stand firm, let’s connect.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

A few years ago, sellers could get away with saying "no" to just about everything.

06/14/2026

06/14/2026

Moving this Summer? Whether you're buying or selling, you probably have questions.

My new Summer Buyer & Seller Guides have the answers.

Inside, you'll find out what higher inventory means for you, what’s going on with affordability right now, what strategies for buying or selling are actually working this season, and more.

Stop guessing and start moving forward with confidence. DM or drop a comment with "BUYER" or "SELLER" below to get your free digital copy.



Ruth Bolinger Broker IA Licensed
The Real Estate Store
Creston IA
641-782-4935

06/14/2026

👀

Check out the Homestead of Creston Car Show Fundraiser on June 20th from 9a.m. to 2p.m!

The event will feature a community car show with a $25 per vehicle entry fee, live music from 11a.m. to 2p.m., and a bake sale. Free will donations will be accepted to help purchase a soft service ice cream machine for the residents at Homestead.

Community members interested in registering a vehicle or learning more about the event can contact Sherry at 782-3131 or by email at [email protected]

Homestead of Creston

06/14/2026

Fly them proudly!

Celebrating Flag Day - wave them proud! 🇺🇸