Megan Mitchum
Century 21
Des Moines, Iowa
REALM
Connect with Megan
"Des Moines has been one of the most quietly interesting markets in my referral network - strong financial services sector, dramatically lower housing costs, and agents who understand a buyer moving from a high-cost market and what they're actually gaining."
Des Moines
Relocation Insights
Iowa and Denver: Why People Move
Why people move from Denver to Iowa
- Iowa's housing costs are approximately 40 to 50% below Denver's, with comparable luxury properties offering dramatically more square footage per dollar.
- Des Moines has emerged as a significant financial services hub (Principal Financial, Nationwide, Wells Fargo operations), creating professional opportunities that exceed Iowa's traditional agricultural economy.
- Iowa's income tax was reduced to a flat 3.8% in 2025, making it one of the lower flat-rate states in the Midwest and below Colorado's 4.4%.
Why people move from Iowa to Denver
- Denver's Rocky Mountain access puts skiing, hiking, and alpine recreation within 90 minutes; Iowa has no comparable outdoor terrain.
- Denver's professional job market in technology, aerospace, and finance operates at a scale that Des Moines and Iowa City cannot replicate.
- Denver averages approximately 300 sunny days; Iowa's winters are grey, cold, and extended, with significant snowfall and ice events from November through March.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Denver
Housing
Iowa's median home price is approximately 40 to 50% below Denver's; comparable properties offer dramatically more square footage in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids.
Taxes
Iowa's income tax is 3.8% flat (2025) vs. Colorado's 4.4%; Iowa is actually lower, a meaningful difference for buyers considering the relative tax environment.
Overall
Iowa's overall cost of living is approximately 20 to 25% below Denver across all major spending categories.
Common Questions
Top Luxury Real Estate Agents in Iowa: FAQ
Who are the top luxury real estate agents in Iowa in May 2026?
Rick Janson's vetted referral network includes 1 elite agents across Iowa, including Megan Mitchum. Every agent is a member of REALM Global, invitation-only networks reserved for the highest-performing real estate professionals. Rick makes personal introductions to ensure the right match for every client.
How do I get connected to a top real estate agent in Iowa?
Email Rick Janson directly at rickjansondenver@gmail.com with your market of interest. Rick personally reviews every request and makes a warm introduction to the most appropriate agent in Iowa for your specific needs. There is no cost to the buyer or seller for a referral introduction through Rick's network.
What real estate brokerages are represented in Rick Janson's Iowa referral network?
Rick Janson's Iowa referral partners represent a range of elite brokerages including Century 21. Rather than limiting referrals to a single brokerage, Rick's network spans multiple firms to ensure the best possible match for every client and market. What matters is the agent's track record, local expertise, and network membership.
What makes the agents in Rick Janson's referral network different from finding an agent on Zillow?
Unlike public directories, every agent in Rick Janson's referral network has been vetted through membership in invitation-only networks: REALM Global. These are not self-nominated directories; agents are invited based on production, professional standards, and peer reputation. Rick also stays involved after the introduction to ensure the service standard meets the expectations set on Living the Denver Lifestyle.
What markets does Rick Janson's referral network cover in Iowa?
Rick Janson's Iowa referral network covers Des Moines. If your target market is not listed, email rickjansondenver@gmail.com. Rick frequently adds new markets through his ongoing relationships with elite agents nationwide.
Request an Introduction in Iowa
Rick personally reviews every referral request and makes a warm introduction to the most appropriate agent for your needs. No cost to you, no obligation.
Email Rick for an Introduction