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

2428 F24 Street, Irwin, Iowa 51446

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
17Picture(s)
2,408Sqft
Visits: 0
Check out this great acreage located off of a hard surface road. This home features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an eat-in kitchen, dining room, and open living room as well as main floor laundry. This home also features a full unfinished basement for additional living space if finished. Enjoy the outdoors with the great 2 car detached garage and 7.84 m/L acres to roam.
$269,900

Residential For Sale

110 Indian Avenue, Forest City, Iowa 50436

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
3Parking(s)
32Picture(s)
1,092Sqft
Visits: 0
Don't miss out on your opportunity to own this amazing 1,092 sq. ft. 3 BR, 2 Bath Ranch Home in a Nice Quiet Neighborhood of Forest City. The home features: Vinyl Siding, Newer Windows, Large Fenced Backyard w/ Mature Trees & Beautiful Landscape as well as a Oversized Triple Deep 1-Att.
$189,900

Residential For Sale

403 Pleasant, Cincinnati, Iowa 52549

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
65Picture(s)
3,130Sqft
Visits: 0
YOUR DREAM PROPERTY AWAITS! Experience the perfect blend of country charm and modern comfort with this stunning 3-bed, 2-bath home on 2.76 acres m/l. From the large lawn to the gorgeous scenic views, this property welcomes you with warmth and style.
$397,500

Residential For Sale

1400 13Th Street, Burlington, Iowa 52601

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
2Parking(s)
10Picture(s)
1,380Sqft
Visits: 0
Charming 2-bedroom ranch home on a spacious corner lot! This well-maintained property features an open floor plan that flows effortlessly from the living area to the kitchen, creating a bright and welcoming space perfect for everyday living or entertaining. The home sits on a generous lot with a large side yard—ideal for gardening, outdoor activities, or future expansion.
$169,000

Land For Sale

240 Street, Low Moor, Iowa 52757

2Picture(s)
179Acre
Visits: 0
Peoples Company is honored to represent the Steve Witt family in selling 179 acres m/l of premium Eastern Iowa farmland. Ideally located just outside of Low Moor, Iowa, this exceptional property offers convenience and opportunity. Situated within 30 minutes of Davenport & Dubuque, Iowa, and in easy reach of regional grain markets and agricultural services. The farm is comprised of 178.
$2,846,100

Residential For Sale

1118 Corning Street, Red Oak, Iowa 51566

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
YesParking(s)
84Picture(s)
3,583Sqft
Visits: 0
1118 E Corning Street, Red Oak Take a step inside the stately air lock entry of this gorgeous home with Mission style Oak woodwork leading to a spacious living room that has a very unique Oak seated reading nook. The French doors will lead you to a show stopper brand new kitchen that is set up for the finest cooks.
$255,000
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