Matthew Karjalahti

Broker, Owner, ACP (Accredited Commercial Professional) and CNE (Certified Negotiation Expert)
Mobile
641.260.0672
Office
641.236.6683
Fax
641.236.6682
Licensed in
Iowa

“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.

Matt’s Listings

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Residential For Sale

1921 Bristol Street, Norwalk, Iowa 50211

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
27Picture(s)
1,493Sqft
Visits: 2
Golf Course Serenity Meets Easy Living! Discover this rare opportunity in Norwalk’s Legacy Golf Course community—a meticulously maintained, ranch villa with sweeping fairway views. The open-concept floorplan welcomes you with vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and a cozy gas fireplace framed by sun-filled windows.
$395,000

Residential For Sale

4519 Colt Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa 50265

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
22Picture(s)
2,269Sqft
Visits: 2
A tranquil retreat in the heart of the community nestled on a quiet tree-lined street, this beautifully maintained four-bedroom, three-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Step inside and discover an inviting sanctuary that welcomes you with warmth, light, and a sense of belonging creating a true haven designed for both relaxing evenings and joyful gatherings.
$445,000

Residential For Sale

6162 Pommel Place, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
16Picture(s)
1,509Sqft
Visits: 2
Great opportunity to own property in one of the best locations in all of Des Moines. This property starts with a large treed flat lot on a quiet street close to everything. WDM schools, Jordan Creek bike trail, parks, shopping, grocery, entertainment, highway access. This home has brand new siding that was installed 6/25. Roof and windows are newer. Maintenance free flooring throughout.
$339,000

Residential For Sale

802 Elm Street, Elkhart, Iowa 50073

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
3Parking(s)
34Picture(s)
1,386Sqft
Visits: 3
Better than new, this charming home has the feel of a brand new home yet it has all the upfront expenses already done for you! It is a beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom ranch home in the heart of Elkhart, Iowa. This spacious residence offers modern living with a 3-car garage and a host of standout features, perfect for families or entertainers.
$385,000

Residential For Sale

1010 5th Street, Perry, Iowa 50220

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
18Picture(s)
1,488Sqft
Visits: 0
Charming 2-story home with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a large kitchen, ample living space, comfortable dining room. Enjoy the covered porch and spacious yard with mature trees. Perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Some repairs required, per previous owner related to furnace; seller willing to make repairs with acceptable offer.
$134,900

Residential For Sale

3623 Wright Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50316

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
YesParking(s)
24Picture(s)
808Sqft
Visits: 1
Super clean and move-in ready! This charming 2-bedroom home is nestled in a quiet neighborhood within Des Moines schools and is just a short walk to nearby schools. You'll love the completely updated kitchen and bathroom, fresh interior paint, and the pride of ownership that shines throughout. The exterior is just as inviting, with beautiful matured trees and thoughtfully maintained landscaping.
$172,000
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