An Iowa Land Title Association Certified Land Title Professional is a professional who has attended classes and passed 4 exams with a 90 percent pass rate, taught by top Real Estate Experts and Attorneys in the State, with extensive knowledge in Real Estate and Land Transfer. There are less than 60 ILTA CLTPS throughout the State, and ILTA CLTPS are considered to be experts in the field of Abstracting.
for more information, 515-408-2265 MLS#23145 • Jamie Lara 515-408-2265
After 50 years of owning this property, it’s ready for a new owner. This home offers hardwood floors throughout. Main floor laundry/pantry, 3 bedrooms, a large main living level including a dining room. The brick front porch overlooks a very private street with alley access. Give Jamie Lara at call today, Legacy Realty Group @ 515-408-2265.
MLS#23511 • Jamie Lara 515-408-2265
2 Unit Fixer ... If you need a winter project this is the time to buy. This property has already been gutted out & ready for the final finishes, 2-2 bedroom units, with full bathrooms & large living rooms with hardwood floors.
Welcome to this delightful 4-bedroom 1-1/2 bath home located in a friendly neighborhood. Perfect for families, this house offers a comfortable and inviting living space! key features include the large dining room perfect for gatherings, a fenced in back yard, and updated landscaping.
MLS#24671 • Nick Taylor 515-570-1350
6078 Linden St. • Lehigh • $8,500
Endless possibilities await with this quaint corner lot. Well established trees garnish the property along with a usable shed and all utility hook-ups. Call Sadie Andersen today at 515-408-1824 MLS#24674 • Sadie Andersen 515-408-1824
Prime lot sitting on 1.16 acres that is zoned light Industrial. This lot is Lot 3 of 3 or south lot.
MLS#18576 Jim Schwan 515-570-8608
Beautiful Cozy Home For Sale
1227 10th Ave N • Fort Dodge
Gorgeous 4 bed, 3 bath home situated on a large corner lot near Snell Crawford Park. Step inside & see the beauty in every corner as there was no detail spared in the design of each room. The main floor is an open concept featuring a large kitchen with new appliances, new counters, new backsplash, new plumbing and electric. There is also a spacious dining room just off the kitchen and a large living room featuring a fireplace. Also located on the main floor is bedroom and updated full bathroom. There are 3 bedrooms upstairs with large walk in closets. The full bath upstairs offers plenty of space to get ready and boasts modern finishes. There is also half bath that has been newly updated. Outside features a covered front porch & detached 2 car garage. Call today for a showing! 712-830-7331
MLS24794 - $249,900
2063 Highland Park Ave., Fort Dodge
Immaculately kept home centrally located in Fort Dodge. Close to shopping centers, schools, hospital, restaurants and more!! Wellcared for home on a nice corner lot in Fort Dodge! Recent updates include roof, AC, water heater & flooring. The home features a nice size living room on the main floor with an open kitchen & dining room space. The front porch is screened in & a great space for relaxing. There are 3 bedrooms upstairs and a full bath. There is a second bathroom in the basement, nice size laundry room & large storage spaces. The attached 2 car garage has tons of space & a bonus storage room. Outside you will be in awe of the landscaping and meticulously kept yard. Don’t miss out on this great house!
MLS23606 - $149,900
916-4 Williams Drive, Fort Dodge
Discover your dream townhome on Williams Drive! This charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath gem features a formal dining area perfect for hosting, a cozy gas fireplace, and convenient main floor laundry. Enjoy relaxing on the deck with a stunning view of the North Woods. This home offers comfort and elegance in every corner. Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of tranquility and modern living!
$170,000
Jeremiah Condon • 515-571-8326
3064 13th Ave. North, Fort Dodge
This beautiful split-level is walking distance from a daycare facility, the Aquatic Center and the Middle School. Year round patio off the dine-in kitchen area. Beautifully landscaped with an inviting backyard.
$229,900
MLS# 23481
Tom Condon • 515-351-1694
161 Parkwood Circle, Fort Dodge
Experience
MLS# 23569
1513 Collins St. Webster City
76 6th St. SE, Badger
Embrace the opportunity to own a brand-new 1,416 sq ft home in charming Badger. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and an inviting open floor plan perfect for any lifestyle. Construction starts soon-act now to influence the design and finishes to your liking. Nestled in a serene community, enjoy the perfect balance of modern living and small-town tranquility. Secure your future home with a personal touch.
$349,000
MLS# 23393
Todd McCubbin • 515-571-2110
130 Country Club Drive, Fort Dodge
Welcome to your luxurious ranch-style oasis at the Country Club! This meticulously designed home boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a seamless open-concept layout. As you enter, you are greeted by a spacious living room and formal dining room. The spacious family room has a gas fireplace and cozy feel that opens to a dining
a full bath. Significant updates, including a new deck, driveway, and granite countertops, have put this unit in excellent condition. HOA fee is $90/mo
$327,500 MLS# 24757 Todd McCubbin • 515-571-2110
plan perfect for any lifestyle. Construction starts soon—act now to influence the design and finishes to your liking. Nestled in a serene community, enjoy the perfect balance of modern living and small-town tranquility. Secure your future home with a personal touch.
$349,900 MLS# 23394 Todd
313
2107
Prime car lot and garage!
Includes two garage bays and an office. Inventory is negotiable. Ideal for automotive business.
$195,000 MLS# 23208 Jennifer Wilson 515-428-1184
1st Ave S, Fort Dodge
$2,002,950
Commercial Lot Size 1390’ x 1119’
Apx Acreage: 35.69
MLS# 23059
Jim Kesterson
515-570-0672
908 Sunrise Dr, Gowrie
Explore this exceptional lot in Gowrie’s Wiley Addition, a perfect spot for your dream home or a smart investment. Offering a peaceful setting with the convenience of community living, this development-ready lot comes with a 10-year tax abatement. Situated near schools, parks, and local amenities, it promises a lifestyle of ease and accessibility. Priced at $17, 900, this lot is a unique opportunity in a thriving area.
$17,900 MLS#23232
Todd McCubbin • 515-571-2110
LAND
Apx Acreage 12.51
Fort Dodge, Webster
$718,150
MLS# 23060
120 West Front St, Clare Public Remarks: Discover the charm of smalltown hospitality at Antlers Pub in Clare, Iowa, now on the market for $119, 900! Nestled in the heart of the
1st Ave S, Fort Dodge
$618,600 Commercial Lot Size 566’ x 811’
Apx Acreage: 10.52
MLS# 23057
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
Fort Dodge, Webster Embark on a journey of opportunity with this expansive 17-acre property, poised for commercial development. When combined with the adjacent land, the total area extends to over 27 acres, offering a canvas for endless possibilities. Highlighted in the green section of the attached image, this property invites visionaries to imagine and create a future landmark. For more details or to discuss the vast potential of this land, reach out to Todd McCubbin at 515-571-2110 or via email at todd@toddmccubbin.com.
$1,124,500 MLS#23364 Todd McCubbin • 515-571-2110
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672 LAND
30559 249th Avenue, Burnside
The possibilities are endless with this listing. It could be a nice church for a small congregation. It would also would make a gorgeous home with lots of room in a country setting. It needs work but the end result could be spectacular.
$8,000 MLS# 22624 Kathy Jondle at 515-351-8490
1st Ave S, Fort Dodge $590,000
Lot Size 389’ x 1119’ Apx Acreage: 10 MLS# 23058 Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
315 2nd Avenue South, Fort Dodge This small convenient store & 8 pump gas station is located just inside Fort Dodge on the Crosstown Connector. This high traffic volume location is located on the East side of the Karl King Bridge. The station is located on 1/2 Acre of prime Commercial Real Estate. This is a great business opportunity. $585,000 MLS# 23206 Jennifer Wilson • 515-428-1184
1st Ave S, Fort Dodge $244,600 Commercial Lot Size 491’ x 330’ Apx Acreage: 3. 72 MLS# 23055
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
$165,000
$243,500
MLS# 23054
This property will be subject to certain deed restrictions. Subject property is an exceptional quality 2 story office building.
$499,000 MLS# 21599 Jim Kesterson • 570-0672
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672 LAND Apx Acreage 3.7 Fort Dodge, Webster
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
Apx Acreage 8.07 Fort Dodge, Webster $483,850 MLS# 23053
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
Lot 1 Triton Pl, Leah Lane Fort Dodge
This property will be subject to Building Restrictions. Call Listing Agent for details. Property is zoned AC (Arterial Commercial).
$845,000 MLS# 21595 Jim Kesterson • 570-0672 42nd St., Fort Dodge $114,750 MLS# 23051 Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
Webster
$167,000
MLS# 21959
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
Commercial/ Industrial Park Commercial lots for sale in this new development. 1.5 acres to 35 acres available in this large Industrial Park. For details call Jim Kesterson 570-0672. Decker Development Industrial Park
LAND Apx Acreage 4.94
Fort Dodge, Webster
$494,000
MLS# 21956
Jim Kesterson 515-570-0672
22250 THEATER ROAD • FORT DODGE
Little bit city, little bit country, this totally re-modeled ranch in Savage Addition has it all: open floor plan with one level living, 3 bedrooms, wooded oversize yard, large garage and so much more. All the work is done, nothing to do but move in and enjoy! You have the quiet of the country but close to town and all the conveniences. Priced at $179,900. Give Alice a call to view today 515-570-2851. MLS #24764.
Newly listed 3 bedrooms nome sitting on a corner lot in Duncombe.
This home
offers Living Room, Dining Room, eat in kitchen (needs walls repaired and painted) 3 bedroom, 1 bath, enclosed front porch, a 2 car detached garage. The exterior of the home and garage needs to be painted. Selling home “AS IS” inspections welcome. Priced at $34,500 . Gery Cook 515-5706208. MLS #24786.
OFFER PENDING
SOLD 501 SIMPSON DUNCOMBE
2512 22ND AVENUE
NORTH FORT DODGE
3 bedrooms
Ranch home in the Cooper School area, 1 3/4 bath, lots of oak
cabinets in kitchen, dining area with slider to lovely 3 season room, nice size living room, some finish in basement, nice lot, attached double garage, newer furnace and central air, replacement windows, and a shed. Priced at $174,900.00. Call Regency Realtors or Gery Cook for a private showing 515-5706208. MLS #24713.
Hello all! My name is Marcie Welter, born and raised in Fort Dodge, moved away for a short time and then returned. I enjoy being with my family, making memories, hosting exchange students and being pool side when I can. I joined the real estate market at the beginning of 2023 thanks to Gery Cook! I enjoy assisting people find their dream homes. I look forward to working with everyone.
When to test your home water supply
Water quality is not something people think about all that much, especially in developed nations. Though it can be easy to take water quality for granted in countries with ample regulation and sophisticated filtering systems, there are times when anyone, regardless of where they live, should take stock of the water in their homes.
Frequency of testing
One of the variables for individuals to consider is how long it’s been since they last tested the water quality in their homes. For those who have never done so, those who have done it but can’t recall precisely when or those who know it’s been more than a year since the last test, then it’s a good time to test the water. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends annual testing for coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels. The EPA notes this testing is especially important for anyone who is using a new well or has replaced or repaired pipes, pumps or the well casing.
What about public water supply systems?
Testing may not be necessary for individuals who get their water from public water supplies. The EPA notes that anyone who pays a water bill gets their water from a public supply system, which is responsible for monitoring and testing water and reporting the results of those tests to the appropriate agencies as well as the individuals who use the water. Homeowners and tenants who pay a water bill should receive an annual water quality report from their water supply utility, while renters can request a copy of that report from their landlords if they do not pay the bill themselves.
What about private water supply systems?
Individuals who receive their water from a private system, such as a household well, are responsible for conducting their own water supply testing. These tests should be conducted annually and in the aftermath of a spill or other incident that could taint the water supply.
Are there any special circumstances to test the water?
An eye, taste and/or smell test also can indicate if the water supply should be tested. Water that stains, has an unusual taste and/or a conspicuous odor should be tested. In these instances, test for sulfate, chloride, iron, manganese, hardness, and corrosion.
The EPA notes that certain situations may call for testing the water supply, even if it’s provided by a public supply system. For example, the EPA recommends that expecting parents test their water supply for nitrates in the early months of a pregnancy. Testing should then be conducted again prior to bringing an infant home and once more during the first six months of the baby’s life. The EPA notes nitrate tests are best conducted in spring or summer after periods of rain.
A local chemical or fuel spill also should trigger a test of the water supply. The EPA notes that these tests can be expensive and recommends individuals contact a local expert to determine which contaminants to test for.
Water quality is easily taken for granted. However, various scenarios may necessitate testing the water supply. A local health department office can be a useful resource for individuals who want to confirm that their water supply is safe.
5 ways to get acquainted with a new neighborhood
Across the country, people are packing boxes, hiring trucks and moving short and long distances. The U.S. Census Bureau says that around 12 percent of the population moves each year. According to a survey by DuProprio, a Quebec-based real estate advice site, 28 percent of Canadians feel the need to move every five years. Surprisingly, DuProprio also found that 14 percent of owners wish they could move every year.
The main reasons people move are expansion of the family, a career change, retirement, empty nest situations, or when moving is more practical than large-scale home renovations. While some people stick close to previous home locations, a 2015 American Community Survey found approximately 16.9 million people moved to a different county in 2015.
Whether a move is across county lines or overseas, it can take some time to acclimate to a new neighborhood. These tips can help anyone get acquainted with their new surroundings and make friends in the process.
1. Host a housewarming party. Get to know immediate neighbors by hosting a party. After some unpacking is done, host a simple get-together for people who live nearby. Ask if neighbors can help out by bringing chairs. Offer light refreshments and some type of activities for children. The event doesn’t have to be extensive, just long enough to engage in some conversation and introduce yourself.
2. Walk and drive around. Scout out the area by driving around and making note of shopping centers, parks and places of interest. Schedule times when you will get out of the car and walk around on foot, which makes it easier to take everything in. Use a website like Walkscore.com to find places within walking distance of your new home. Bring the dog along. Dogs can be great ice breakers with new neighbors.
3. Check out community blotters. Community events may be posted in print and distributed through a local newspaper and also on municipal websites. Find out where the locals go on weekends or during the week. Communities may take pride in certain activities. It’s easier to get a feel for the neighborhood by spending time with the locals.
4. Become active in the community. Find a volunteer organization or join a local house of worship. Check with the local chamber of commerce for ways to get involved or clubs to join. Like-minded people can make living in a new locale more enjoyable.
5. Dine out once a week. If budget allows, try a new neighborhood eating establishment each week to get a lay of the land. You’ll identify hot spots and hidden gems and will also be able to mingle with the community. An app such as Open Table can help you find places to eat nearby.
Outdoor improvements that boost home value
Whether home improvement projects are design to improve the interior or exterior of a house, focusing on renovations that
Wood floor cleaning guide
Wood floors are coveted for a number of reasons, not the least of which is their aesthetic appeal. Many people prefer wood flooring because dust and dirt do not become trapped as they would in carpet fibers, seemingly making wood flooring easy to clean.
Most floors endure a lot of wear and tear. However, with care, wood flooring may last for decades. Part of that care includes understanding how to properly clean and maintain wood floors so they look their best. The following are some steps for keeping wood floors as pristine as possible.
• Remove shoes. It’s a good idea to remove shoes, particularly heels, when walking on wood floors. Sharp heels, cleats and other shoes can scratch or dent wood flooring. All shoes can track in excess dirt, which can contribute to a lack of luster as well.
• Sweep or vacuum frequently. The experts at The Spruce suggest sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping wood floors daily. Dirt and dust make floors more slippery, and dirt or sand particles can lead to scratches on the floor.
• Learn your flooring type. Wood flooring is broken down into three main categories: solid hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring and laminate wood flooring. Traditional hardwood is made of planks or strips of any hardwood covered in a wood stain. Engineered flooring is manufactured by gluing together several thin plies of hardwood. Laminate flooring looks like wood but generally is a veneer or a photographic image of wood covered by a thick layer of melamine resin over fiberboard.
• Skip harsh cleansers. Regardless of flooring type, most are covered by a sealant that can become streaky or dull if the wrong cleanser is used. Avoid chlorine bleach, ammonia, pine oil, or undiluted vinegar. Instead, choose a cleanser that is
specifically recommended for the flooring type. Do not allow water or solutions to sit on the floor, as that can contribute to staining and warping. With laminate flooring, avoid wet mopping unless the flooring is specifically marked as being able to be wet. The underlayers of laminate flooring can warp if it gets wet.
• Damp is better than wet. When cleaning wood flooring, use a damp rather than a soaking wet mop. Better Homes & Gardens says standing water can damage wood surfaces.
• Use the hard floor setting. When vacuuming, adjust the vacuum to a hard flooring setting, which will not engage the brush rollers on the vacuum head. Rollers can scratch wood and laminate flooring, advises The Home Depot.
• Use repair products as needed. Scratch and repair kits can fill in small scratches. Wood floor polish and wood waxes also can revitalize worn floors. Again, check that the product is safe for your particular flooring before use.
Wood floors bring warmth to a home and are very popular. Cleaning them correctly can add to their appeal and longevity.
Why you need dental insurance in retirement.
Many Americans are fortunate to have dental coverage for their entire working life, through employer-provided benefits. When those benefits end with retirement, paying dental bills out-of-pocket can come as a shock, leading people to put off or even go without care.
Simply put — without dental insurance, there may be an important gap in your healthcare coverage.
When you’re comparing plans ...
Look for coverage that helps pay for major services. Some plans may limit the number of procedures — or pay for preventive care only.
Look for coverage with no deductibles. Some plans may require you to pay hundreds out of pocket before benefits are paid.
Shop for coverage with no annual maximum on cash benefits. Some plans have annual maximums of $1,000.
Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.1
That’s right. As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything. That means if you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance.
Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.
The best way to prevent large dental bills is preventive care. The American Dental Association recommends checkups twice a year.
Previous dental work can wear out.
Even if you’ve had quality dental work in the past, you shouldn’t take your dental health for granted. In fact, your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2
Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.
Consider these national average costs of treatment ... $222 for a checkup ... $190 for a filling ... $1,213 for a crown.3 Unexpected bills like this can be a real burden, especially if you’re on a fixed income.
1 “Medicare & You,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2024. 2 “Aging changes in teeth and gums”, medlineplus.gov, 4/17/2022. 3 American Dental Association, Health Policy Institute, 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, Copyright 2020, American Dental Association.
DENTAL Insurance
“Absolutely love”
“I absolutely love my dental insurance. My dental office files the claims, leaving me with very little balance to pay.”
Dorothy P., TN
If you have a fireplace that burns wood, you know that it loses all of its heat up the chimney. Rick Titus has a wood burning insert that will burn with the efficiency of a wood stove and fit inside your fireplace so it keeps your fireplace look. The insert could heat up to 2,000 SQ. Ft and burn a third of the wood!
If you have a gas log in your fireplace it also sends all of its heat up the chimney. Rick has Vent Free gas logs that can burn as efficient as a gas cook stove and burn with the damper closed, thus keeping all the heat
in the house. The vent free gas logs could heat 1,000 SQ. Ft of your home
If you have one of the newer gas fireplaces that vents out the side of the home or up a chimney, Rick can convert it over to a Vent Free log and keep all the heat in the home.
So no matter what kind of fireplace you may have, Rick has an efficient solution for it. Call Rick or email him at yahtitus@gmail.com or go to his web site below. Rick even has new fireplaces and wood stoves that can heat your home even during a power outage.
