Mary Rucker, Realtor

08/12/2026

Way to go FNNB Bank!! We appreciate your support of our community families! ❤️

The amazing folks at FNNB Bank have shared they will match monetary donations up to $2,500 for our United Way of Jasper County School Supply Challenge. WOW!!!!

If you want to make a donation (through Aug. 21) there are a couple easy ways to do so:
1) Drop your donations off at FNNB Bank - you can drop a monetary gift (cash or check to United Way of Jasper County) at FNNB in downtown Newton - 100 N. 2nd Ave. W.
2) You can Venmo a gift to and mark "school supplies" in the memo
3) Make a donation online at: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/uwojccd/
4) Mail a donation to United Way at PO Box 844, Newton 50208 and mark check "school supplies"
These funds will be matched by FNNB Bank and we can't say thank you enough!!!

"TOGETHER WE CAN SUPPLY SUCCESS"

08/11/2026

As a teacher, I know how important it is for kids to come into the school year feeling prepared and exited. But I also know school supplies can get expensive, and not every family has an easy time getting everything their kids need.

I am really excited that we are partnering with United Way of Jasper County for their school supply drive!

Drop off any school supplies at our office and your name will be put into a drawing for 2 Iowa Stare Fair tickets! 🎟️

For me, this one is extra special because I get to see the difference those little things can make in a classroom.

Let’s make sure ALL of our local kids get to start the school year feeling ready, confident, and excited to learn!

Thanks so much for helping us give back! ❤️

08/08/2026

🏠🥃 I know a good pour when I see one… and a good local spot when I find one!

Today’s local shoutout goes to Whiskey Drink and two of the absolute BEST behind the bar — Jackie & Sam! 🙌
Great drinks are one thing, but these two make the whole experience. They’re friendly, fun, and always make you feel like a regular. ❤️

As a Realtor, I’m always talking about location, location, location… but sometimes it’s really about people, people, people. And Jackie & Sam are two of the good ones!

If you stop in, tell them your favorite Realtor sent you. 😉🥃
Supporting local is always worth raising a glass to! 🍻

08/07/2026

Ever wonder what realtors do at open houses while they are waiting for people to come?

I can’t speak for other realtors, but I use the time to catch up on work! 😉HA! 🐿️

08/07/2026

The home search is exciting, but small missteps can have big consequences. These are some of the most common (and costly) mistakes buyers make:

🚫 Starting without a pre-approval
🚫 Underestimating hidden costs
🚫 Getting emotionally attached too early
🚫 Overlooking long-term needs
🚫 Skipping the home inspection

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but smart decisions early on lead to a smoother experience and better outcomes.

Ready to feel confident in your next move? Reach out today!

08/05/2026

Sounds fun!

The public is invited to the Fireworks Show at Co-Line tomorrow (Saturday) at dusk. You won't want to miss it! 🎆🇺🇸

08/05/2026

I'm in the middle of painting trim, and let's just say... I'm questioning all of my life choices. 😂🎨

I need to know...
👉 Which part do you hate the most?
🪵 Filling nail holes?
🎯 Taping everything off?
🖌️ The actual painting?
OR...
🙋‍♀️ Would you skip all of it and hire someone instead?

If you'd hire it out, tag your favorite painter in the comments! I'd love to hear who you recommend, and it might help someone else looking for a great local pro too. Also, the way my back feels I may need to leave the rest of my paint job to a professional!

Let's settle this once and for all... what's the WORST part of painting trim? 👇

08/04/2026

🏡 OPEN HOUSE THIS THURSDAY! 🏡

Question for you... 👇
If you could only choose ONE, what would it be?
🔥 Two cozy fireplaces
OR
🔥 An outdoor fire pit for s'mores and summer nights?

Tell me your pick in the comments! ⬇️
Then come check out this fantastic home at 1118 Woodland Dr. in Newton this Thursday from 4:00–6:00 PM and see if it has your favorite feature!

✨ 4-bedroom ranch
✨ Newer laminate flooring & carpet
✨ Newer roof, furnace & A/C
✨ Spacious deck for relaxing or entertaining
✨ Two fireplaces
✨ Outdoor fire pit

Whether you're seriously looking for your next home or just love touring beautiful houses, I'd love to see you there!

📍 1118 Woodland Dr., Newton
🗓️ Thursday
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM

💬 Tag someone who would love this home!

Listed by Toni Peska, Iowa Realty-Newton

08/04/2026

Most mornings, I head out for a walk with every intention of clearing my mind... but instead, I'm mentally checking off my to-do list and thinking about everything I need to get back and accomplish.

Then I catch myself.

I look around and remember where I get to walk every morning—the beautiful Newton Arboretum & Botanical Garden.🌳 It's peaceful, beautiful, and right here in our own community. It reminds me to slow down and appreciate the little things instead of always rushing to the next one.

The truth is, Newton has so many gems that we sometimes take for granted. From the Arboretum to our variety of restaurants, the iconic Valle Drive-In theater, our parks, and so many wonderful small businesses, we're fortunate to call this community home. These are the things that make Newton more than just a place to live—they make it a place to truly enjoy life.

I'm grateful I get to live here, work here, and help others find a place to call home here.

If you've been thinking about buying or selling a home in Newton or the surrounding area, I'd love to help. Send me a message—I'd be honored to help you make your next move in this amazing community. 🏡❤️