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

2830 Timberline Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
3Parking(s)
34Picture(s)
2,649Sqft
Visits: 0
This home is a must see! 2830 Timberline Dr in Waukee is a stunning 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home built in 2003, offering 2,649 sqft between the first two floors of luxurious living space on a generous 0.38 acre lot . The finished basement includes an additional 1,100 square foot of finish.
$739,900

Residential For Sale

4700 34th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50320

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
35Picture(s)
2,272Sqft
Visits: 0
Discover the perfect blend of mid-century modern charm & updated comfort in this stunning 100% brick ranch home w/ over 2,200 sq ft of living space, nestled on 1.3 acres in the Carlisle School District.
$539,900

Residential For Sale

900 34th Street, Bondurant, Iowa 50035

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
17Picture(s)
1,052Sqft
Visits: 0
This charming 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with ~1,844?sq?ft offers stylish open-concept living and a well-equipped kitchen, complete with dishwasher, microwave, oven, stove, and refrigerator. A convenient in-home washer and dryer add ease to daily routines. You'll love the expansive primary suite, featuring a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, plus two additional bedrooms for flexibility.
$269,000

Residential For Sale

2458 Highview Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50320

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
35Picture(s)
1,405Sqft
Visits: 0
Fall in love with this modern farmhouse nestled near East Lake, where quiet mornings and sunset strolls through nearby parks and trails set the tone for every day. Built in 2021, this thoughtfully designed ranch offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a walkout basement, already stubbed for a future bath and waiting for your personal touch.
$379,000

Residential For Sale

3832 Richmond Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50317

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
YesParking(s)
35Picture(s)
1,470Sqft
Visits: 0
This two-story has over 2,000 sq ft of finished space to enjoy! Main level has hardwood floors & a formal dining room. Updated kitchen has granite countertops, & maple cabinets. All 4 bedrooms are located upstairs with a newly updated bathroom. Sliding doors lead nicely to a fully fenced-in backyard with a patio and fire pit. A great 3-season porch is located off the formal dining room.
$279,000

Residential For Sale

8704 Highland Oaks Drive, Johnston, Iowa 50131

5Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
3Parking(s)
30Picture(s)
1,524Sqft
Visits: 0
Don't pass up a visit to this immaculate ranch in a fantastic Johnston neighborhood! Great location close to restaurants, parks, schools and interstate access. This home has a spacious open concept main floor that includes 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a separate laundry room, and a gorgeous kitchen with an oversized island.
$490,000
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