“There’s no such thing as ‘just business.’ You have to be able to connect with people. Real estate transactions are built on major life transitions — marriage, divorce, death, birth. A good realtor and broker is empathetic and understands that not all transactions pay well. Some of them don’t pay anything. But making sure that all of our clients receive the best representation we can legally provide them with is the hub of everything we do.”
Matt Karjalahti, Broker and owner of RE/MAX Partners, got into real estate in sort of an unexpected way: He got angry.
After three poorly executed real estate transactions, a light-bulb went off. He could do better. He would do better. It was a call to action.
The Minnesota native has worn many hats — from tow truck driver to construction foreman — but none have fit him the way real estate has. Matt points to his complete immersion in the structure and ethics of the business as to how and why he became the best in the business.
“I became an observer. I did a deep dive into underrepresentation and mismanagement,” Matt says. “It was easy to see what needed to be improved. The real task is taking the reins and getting it done. I figured it out and it’s been a win for me, a win for my team, and a win for my clients.”
RE/MAX Partners opened their doors in 2014. Their combined goal was to to provide a seamless, ethical transaction for their clients. He maintains that their level of diligence and representation has made real estate better not only for the entire MLS community, but for Grinnell and its surrounding communities, as well.
“There really isn’t anyone who does what we do to the level we do it,” Matt says. “I’ve made it my mission to uphold strict ethical guidelines, not only for myself, but for my agents. I look for agents who connect well with people, bottom line. There’s nothing more important. ”
Matt became the sole owner and broker of RE/MAX Partners in December of 2016, and has since actively recruited observant agents who are committed to the same “representation before profit” credo the organization was founded on. It’s important to him to provide his agents with a livable wage and ongoing education in order for them to maintain a transparent, ethical partnership.
“There has to be a continued desire to look for meaning in what they’re doing,” Matt maintains. “The impact has to be tangible. If an agent does good work and adheres to diligent, ethical practices, it’ll pay off tenfold with lifelong clients.”
Matt isn’t just a trailblazer in the real estate agency, he’s also a committed public servant. It’s been important to him that RE/MAX Partners gives back to the community, whether it’s through Grinnell High School football team sponsorship or donating to Grinnell Regional Medical Center and Grinnell College. He also hosts a “Right at Home”, a non-compensated weekly radio show on KGRN that focuses on real estate, review trends, weekly numbers, legal updates, and discussions with other local experts like city managers and building inspectors.
“I don’t think you can be an effective leader in business and not be connected to the community you live in,” he says.
RE/MAX Partners was voted 2017 Business of the Year by the Grinnell Chamber of Commerce, and Matt himself was the first-ever Grinnell realtor to be honored with the Iowa Association of Realtors Diamond Achievement Award. It’s two of many awards he’s amassed in the last few years, but Matt maintains that although it’s great to be honored, the real satisfaction is knowing he and his team go above and beyond to represent clients.
Whether you’re buying a home or selling one, Matt is your one-stop shop for your next step in life. Call him today at 641-260-0672.
Prime development land, ready for you to break ground. Situated within walking distance of two large service stations and two hotels, this commercial lot has a high traffic volume and is visible from Interstate 80! The lot is conveniently located off the Grinnell exit on State Highway 146/West Street S, North of Interstate 80, providing the lot with a desirable business location.
Prime development land, ready for you to break ground. Situated within walking distance of two large service stations and two hotels, this commercial lot has a high traffic volume and is visible from Interstate 80! The lot is conveniently located off the Grinnell exit on State Highway 146/West Street S, North of Interstate 80, providing the lot with a desirable business location.
Prime development land, ready for you to break ground. Zoned Commercial. Situated within walking distance of two large service stations and two hotels, this commercial lot has a high traffic volume and is visible from Interstate 80! The lot is conveniently located off the Grinnell exit on State Highway 146/West Street S, North of Interstate 80, providing the lot with a desirable business location.
Prime development land, ready for you to break ground. Situated within walking distance of two large service stations and two hotels, this commercial lot has a high traffic volume and is visible from Interstate 80! The lot is conveniently located off the Grinnell exit on State Highway 146/West Street S, North of Interstate 80, providing the lot with a desirable business location.
Welcome to 1933 Penrose St! Step into this stunning residence offering a modern open floor plan that seamlessly blends style and functionality. The main floor features an inviting open kitchen, perfect for culinary delights and entertaining. The spacious master bedroom boasts an en-suite bath with a convenient roll-in shower, providing comfort and accessibility.
This incredible farmhouse was carefully built to resonate with its surroundings and conservation. Utilizing materials like: reclaimed gym floor from Solon Iowa, farm harvested walnut and cherry flooring, geothermal HVAC, and reclaimed brick from a grocery store on the Mississippi and the streets of Cedar Rapids. The character follows you with every step.
Priced to Sell! Incredible lakefront house! Have you been looking for that once in a lifetime acreage? Oh! Its also on a private lake with over 400 ft of shoreline with its own pollinator garden, 5 garage stalls, and over 4000 sq ft of finished living space! Step in the grand entry, have a seat by the fireplace in the great room and enjoy the incredible view.
Welcome to 1606 Hobart St, a spacious single-family home located in the heart of Grinnell, IA. This stunning property is nestled on a 0.68-acre lot, providing ample outdoor space for your family to enjoy. Built in 1997, this home boasts 2,482 sqft of floor space, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax.
