Smart House: 99% | Smart Husband: Still Under Evaluation

by Julie Hurt

Smart home water leak sensor placed on a laundry room floor to help detect leaks and prevent water damage.

If you’ve ever wondered whether technology can solve all of life’s problems, I have a story for you.

My husband absolutely loves smart home technology. Our house is filled with gadgets that make life easier. We can turn lights on and off from our phones, lock and unlock doors from anywhere, adjust the thermostat without getting off the couch, and even schedule our blinds to open every morning.

We also have water leak sensors that are supposed to alert us if there’s ever a plumbing problem.

Notice I said “supposed to.”

A few days ago our washing machine decided it had enough after washing the dog beds. The lid locked shut and refused to open. After trying everything we could think of, we called a repair technician. A new control board was ordered, installed, and by yesterday morning everything appeared to be working perfectly again.

While making the repair, the technician moved our water leak sensor onto the counter so it wouldn’t get wet.

You can probably guess where this is going.

My husband cleaned the washer filter, started a load of laundry, and headed out the door.

About fifteen minutes later, I was talking on the phone in another room when our daughter came bursting through the back door yelling.

I figured she was just excited to be home.

She wasn’t.

The laundry room was flooded.

Our “smart” house had absolutely no idea because the water sensor was still sitting safely on the counter instead of underneath the washer where it belonged.

Technology did exactly what it was supposed to do.

Unfortunately, we didn’t.

After a lot of towels, cleanup, and a few laughs once the panic wore off, it reminded me of something I see in real estate all the time.

Smart Home Technology Still Needs Smart Homeowners

I love smart home technology. Smart locks, video doorbells, programmable thermostats, leak detectors, and security systems can make your home more convenient and even help protect your investment.

But they’re only as effective as the people using them.

Sometimes the biggest problems don’t happen because something expensive breaks. They happen because one small detail gets overlooked.

Homeownership is full of little maintenance tasks that don’t seem urgent until suddenly they are. Replacing furnace filters, checking smoke detector batteries, cleaning gutters, testing sump pumps, looking for plumbing leaks, or making sure your smart devices are actually set up correctly can all help prevent much larger headaches later.

The Little Things Matter in Real Estate, Too

The same idea applies when buying or selling a home.

Preparing a home for the market isn’t just about taking great photos. It’s paying attention to the little details buyers notice.

Buying a home isn’t just about finding the right house. It’s making sure inspections, paperwork, timelines, and questions don’t get overlooked.

Many of the biggest issues in a real estate transaction can be avoided simply because someone is paying attention.

That’s one of the reasons I enjoy helping my clients through the process. Having another set of experienced eyes looking out for the details can make the experience much smoother and help prevent surprises along the way.

A Little Humor Goes a Long Way

Thankfully, our flooded laundry room turned into one of those stories we can laugh about now.

The house is dry.

The washer is working.

The water sensor has officially been returned to its proper home.

And my husband is still convinced smart technology is the future.

I’m just keeping a closer eye on where the sensors end up.

Now I’d love to hear from you.

Have you ever had one of those “Well…that could have gone better” homeownership moments? Whether it involved technology, plumbing, DIY projects, or something completely unexpected, I’d love to hear your story!

Buyer Advice • Seller Advice • June 28, 2026

One of My Favorite Client Perks

by Julie Hurt

Julie Hurt's client moving trailer being loaded by homeowners during moving day in Le Mars, Iowa.

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but anyone who has moved knows there’s a lot to do once the papers are signed. Packing boxes, moving furniture, making trips across town, and picking up supplies can quickly become overwhelming.

That’s one of the reasons I offer something a little different to my clients.

One of my favorite client perks is access to my enclosed moving trailer and utility trailer. Whether you’re moving into your new home, hauling landscaping materials for your first backyard project, picking up furniture, or making a few extra trips to a storage unit, my trailers are available to help make the process a little easier.

I recently had a client use both trailers during their move, and it was wonderful to see them put to good use. Friends and family pitched in, furniture was protected with moving blankets, and the trailers helped make moving day more organized and efficient. Moments like that remind me why I enjoy offering this service.

Of course, the trailers aren’t just for moving day.

Over the years, clients have borrowed them for all kinds of projects, including:

Moving into a new home
Transporting furniture purchases
Landscaping and yard projects
Home improvement materials
Storage unit trips
Cleaning out garages and basements

To me, real estate has never been just about helping someone buy or sell a house. It’s about building relationships that continue long after closing. I want my clients to know they can still call me if they need a recommendation for a local contractor, have a question about their home, or simply need to borrow a trailer for the weekend.

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Le Mars or the surrounding communities, I’d love the opportunity to help make the process as smooth as possible. And when moving day arrives, you might just have a trailer waiting for you.

Helping my clients doesn’t stop at the closing table. It’s simply part of how I do business.

If you’d like to learn more about buying or selling a home, or if you have questions about the client trailer program, feel free to reach out anytime.

Buyer Advice • Homeowner Advice • Seller Advice • June 8, 2026

The Different Seasons of Homeownership

by Julie Hurt

Older couple packing moving boxes and preparing for a new chapter in their homeownership journey, representing different seasons of homeownership.

The Different Seasons of Homeownership

June is National Homeownership Month, and one of the things I enjoy reflecting on is how different every homeownership journey can be.

Many people think buying a home is the finish line. In reality, it’s often the beginning of a new chapter.

Over the years, I’ve worked with homeowners in all kinds of situations. Some are buying their very first home. Others are looking for more space. Some are ready to simplify and spend less time maintaining a property.

What I’ve learned is that there is no single “right” way to experience homeownership. Every season has its own benefits, challenges, and opportunities.

The First Home

A first home is often filled with excitement.

It’s the place where many people learn what homeownership really means. Suddenly you’re responsible for maintenance, lawn care, repairs, and all the little things that come with owning a property.

It’s also where people begin to discover what features matter most to them. Maybe they realize they spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Maybe they wish they had a larger garage or a dedicated office space.

The first home often serves as a learning experience, and that’s one of its greatest benefits.

Learning What Matters Most

As life changes, housing needs often change too.

A home that worked perfectly five years ago may not fit your lifestyle today.

Some people discover they want more outdoor space. Others decide they would rather spend less time maintaining a large yard. Work schedules, hobbies, and personal interests can all influence what people want in a home.

This is one reason I encourage people to think about how they live, not just what a home looks like on paper.

A home should support your lifestyle and the things that matter most to you.

When Life Changes

One of the most interesting parts of real estate is seeing how people’s priorities evolve.

Sometimes homeowners need additional bedrooms or flexible living space. Other times they are looking for a shorter commute, a different neighborhood, or features that better suit their daily routine.

These changes don’t mean a previous home was the wrong choice. It simply means life moves forward.

Every chapter serves a purpose.

Less Maintenance, More Freedom

For many homeowners, there comes a point when less maintenance sounds pretty appealing.

Maybe mowing, snow removal, and large home projects aren’t as exciting as they once were.

Condominiums, townhomes, and smaller properties can offer homeowners more flexibility and freedom to focus on travel, hobbies, and spending time doing the things they enjoy.

This chapter of homeownership is just as important as any other.

Every Chapter Has Value

One of the biggest myths about real estate is that your first home has to be your forever home.

The truth is that most homeowners experience multiple chapters throughout their lives.

Each home teaches us something.

Each move reflects a new season.

Each chapter helps shape the next one.

That’s what makes homeownership such a unique journey.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, I think it’s worth remembering that there is no perfect path.

Whether you’re in your first home, your fifth home, or simply thinking about what comes next, every season of homeownership has value.

The important thing is finding a home that fits your life today and being open to how those needs may change in the future.

Julie Hurt
CENTURY 21 ProLink

📱 712-540-7757

Buyer Advice • Homeowner Advice • Seller Advice • June 3, 2026

The Little Moments That Make a House Feel Like Home

by Julie Hurt

June is National Homeownership Month, and every year it gets me thinking about what homeownership really means.

Most of the time, when people talk about buying a home, the conversation focuses on numbers. Interest rates, property taxes, square footage, and mortgage payments. Those things matter, of course.

But when I think about homeownership, I think about moments.

I think about enjoying a cup of coffee on the porch before the day gets busy. I think about children helping in the garden and learning patience one seed at a time. I think about curling up with a good book in a favorite chair, homemade cookies cooling on the counter, and summer afternoons that seem to last forever.

Those are the things that truly make a house feel like home.

Home Is Where Life Happens

One of the things I love most about real estate is seeing how different people make a home their own.

For some people, home is where they gather friends and neighbors. For others, it’s a quiet place to recharge after a busy day. Some people enjoy tending a garden, while others love cooking, decorating, reading, or simply relaxing on the deck after work.

The beauty of homeownership is that it gives you a space that’s uniquely yours. A place where your routines, traditions, and memories begin to take shape.

The Value You Can’t Measure

As REALTORS®, we often talk about home values. But some of the most meaningful value a home provides can’t be measured.

You can’t put a price on traditions. You can’t calculate the worth of a favorite holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or the comfort of returning to a familiar place at the end of a long day.

Over time, those everyday experiences become the memories we carry with us. Long after we’ve moved from one house to another, it’s often the moments we remember most.

A Good Reminder During National Homeownership Month

National Homeownership Month celebrates the opportunities and benefits that come with owning a home. It’s also a good reminder to appreciate the small moments that make a home special.

The morning routines. The favorite recipes. The backyard projects. The conversations around the table. The quiet evenings spent with the people and activities you enjoy most.

These moments may seem ordinary today, but they’re often the ones that become our favorite memories tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

The next time you think about what makes a home special, I encourage you to look beyond the walls and roof.

Think about the moments.

Because at the end of the day, the best part of a home isn’t found on a property report. It’s found in the life that happens inside it.

Julie Hurt
CENTURY 21 ProLink

📱 712-540-7757

Buyer Advice • May 28, 2026

Which Type of Home Fits Your Lifestyle?

by Julie Hurt

Not every home fits every stage of life, and honestly… that’s a good thing.

Some people want everything on one level. Others love having separate spaces. Some want low maintenance, while others dream of a big backyard and room to spread out.

If you’ve been casually browsing homes online and wondering “What kind of home actually makes sense for me?” here’s a simple breakdown of some of the most common home styles and who they tend to fit best.

Ranch Style Homes

Ranch homes are one of the most popular styles for a reason. Everything is typically on one level, which makes daily living simple and convenient.

A ranch home might be a great fit if:

You don’t want stairs
You want easier maintenance
You’re planning long-term living
You like open floor plans
These homes are popular with everyone from first-time buyers to empty nesters.

Split-Level Homes

Split-level homes have multiple short sets of stairs that separate living spaces throughout the home.

This style might work well if:

You like separate spaces for living, entertaining, or hobbies
You want more usable living areas without a massive footprint
You like having a lower-level family room or rec space
You don’t mind a few stairs here and there

One thing to know: because the garage is often tucked underneath part of the home, you may lose some traditional basement storage space compared to a ranch home.

Two-Story Homes

Two-story homes are great for buyers who want plenty of space and like having bedrooms tucked away upstairs.

You might prefer a two-story home if:

You want more bedrooms
You like separation between living and sleeping areas
You need space for guests, offices, or hobbies
You enjoy traditional layouts

Bonus: You often get more square footage without needing a larger lot.

Condos

Condominiums are all about convenience and low maintenance.

A condo may be a good fit if:

You don’t want to mow or shovel snow
You travel often
You want simpler upkeep
You prefer amenities and convenience

Condo living can be a great option for busy lifestyles.

Townhomes

Townhomes are kind of the middle ground between a condo and a traditional home.

They’re a great option if:

You want less maintenance
You still want your own entrance and living space
You like a neighborhood feel
You want affordability with functionality

Many townhomes offer modern layouts and attached garages.

So… Which One Is Right for You?

The “right” home isn’t just about square footage or price point. It’s about your lifestyle.

Do you want fewer stairs?
More privacy?
Low maintenance?
Room to grow?
A lock-and-leave lifestyle?

That’s where finding the right fit really starts.

And honestly, sometimes buyers are surprised by the type of home they end up loving once they walk through a few in person.

If you’ve been thinking about making a move but aren’t even sure what style of home makes the most sense for you, let’s talk through it together.

Homeowner Advice • Seller Advice • May 21, 2026

Securing Your Home Before a Weekend Getaway

by Julie Hurt

Graphic for a home security blog featuring a key, a house-shaped tag, and the word “Security” on a turquoise wood background.

Before You Head Out: Simple Ways to Secure Your Home for a Weekend Getaway

There is something so good about packing a bag, loading up the car, and heading out for a weekend away. Whether it’s a quick trip to the lake, a wedding, a ball tournament, or just a couple of days to recharge, it always feels good to get out of the normal routine.

But before you pull out of the driveway, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your home is ready to be left alone for a bit.

You do not have to overthink it. A few simple steps can help your home look lived-in, keep things running smoothly, and give you a little more peace of mind while you are gone.

1. Make it look like someone is home

One of the easiest things you can do is avoid making it obvious that no one is around.

Before you leave, consider setting a few lights on timers or using smart bulbs that can turn on and off at different times. If you normally keep a porch light on, leave it on. If you have a trusted neighbor nearby, ask them to grab any packages or flyers that might show up while you are gone.

Little things like an overflowing mailbox, packages on the step, or a dark house for several nights in a row can make it pretty clear that everyone is away.

2. Double-check doors, windows, and garage access

This sounds obvious, but it is one of those things that is easy to miss when you are trying to get out the door.

Walk through the house and check all exterior doors, windows, basement access points, and the garage. If you have a keypad or garage remote in a vehicle that will be left outside, it may be worth bringing it inside.

And if you have a door from the garage into the house, make sure that one is locked too. It is easy to forget because it feels like an “inside” door, but it still matters.

3. Be careful what you post in real time

I know, I know. We all love a good weekend photo. But if your social media is public, it may be better to save the vacation pictures until you are back home.

Posting that you are away, especially with dates or locations, can unintentionally let people know your home is empty. You can still share the fun, just maybe after you are back and unpacked.

4. Tidy up the outside

Before you leave, take a quick look at the outside of your home. Put away bikes, tools, ladders, or anything that could be easily taken or used to access windows.

If you are leaving during a time of year when storms are possible, bring in patio cushions, umbrellas, or lightweight outdoor items. Around here, we all know the wind can make a quick mess of things.

5. Don’t forget the practical stuff

Security is important, but so is preventing little home headaches while you are gone.

Take out the trash, run the dishwasher, check that appliances are off, and make sure faucets are not dripping. If you will be gone longer than a weekend, you may also want to adjust the thermostat and have someone check on the house.

If you have pets staying home with someone checking in, make sure food, instructions, and emergency contacts are easy to find.

6. Ask a neighbor or friend to keep an eye out

There is still a lot to be said for good neighbors.

If you have someone you trust nearby, let them know you will be gone and ask them to keep an eye on things. They do not need to do anything major. Just having someone notice if something seems off can be a big help.

A little preparation goes a long way

A weekend getaway should feel relaxing, not stressful. Taking 10 or 15 minutes to secure your home before you leave can make it much easier to enjoy your time away.

And if you are planning a bigger move, getting ready to sell, or just wondering what small things make a home feel well cared for, I am always happy to help.

Julie Hurt
CENTURY 21 ProLink

Julie's Community Corner • May 17, 2026

A Sisters’ Weekend, Ice Cream Cones, and a Little Le Mars History

by Julie Hurt

Julie Hurt smiles with two sisters visiting Le Mars, Iowa, as they take a selfie in front of the downtown ice cream cone sculpture outside the CENTURY 21 ProLink office.

You never know who you’ll meet in downtown Le Mars.

This morning, I met two lovely ladies outside our CENTURY 21 ProLink office while they were taking pictures with the ice cream cone in front of our building. They were on a sisters’ weekend trip to Le Mars and Sioux City, and their plan for the day was to find all the ice cream cones around town before heading to Sioux City to see Urinetown at the community theater.

I thought that sounded like such a fun way to spend a weekend.

What I loved even more was their bigger goal. They are working on traveling to every town in Iowa, and as they go, they try to see productions at community theaters along the way. What a wonderful way to experience our state; stopping, exploring, meeting people, and supporting the arts in each community.

Naturally, I had to tell them they need to come back to Le Mars for a production at the Le Mars Community Theatre.

One of the things I love about our office location is that we are right across from the Le Mars Community Theatre, also known as the Postal Playhouse. The building has such a neat history. It was originally the post office, and now it serves as a place where local talent, creativity, and community come together on stage.

Before they left, they insisted on taking a selfie with me, which made my morning. They also promised they would get ice cream before heading home, so I feel confident they are doing Le Mars the right way.

It was such a simple moment, but it reminded me why I love this community so much. Le Mars has a way of giving people something to remember whether it is the ice cream, the downtown charm, the history, the theater, or just a friendly conversation on the sidewalk.

To the two sisters out exploring Iowa: I hope your weekend is full of laughter, good shows, great ice cream, and plenty of memories.

And when you are ready for another community theater stop, Le Mars will be happy to welcome you back.

Do you have a fun Iowa adventure, small-town tradition, community theater stop, or favorite local landmark story? I’d love to hear it. Share it in the comments and let’s celebrate all the little places and stories that make Iowa so special.

Julie's Community Corner • May 12, 2026

Saturday Mornings at the Le Mars Farmers Market

by Julie Hurt

Graphic for the Le Mars Farmers Market featuring a soft floral background with daisies and text that reads “Farmers Market, Le Mars, IA.”

There is something special about a Saturday morning in Le Mars when the Farmers Market is open.

The Le Mars Farmers Market kicked off its season on Saturday, May 9, at the Olson Cultural Events Center, and it will continue every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon through October 10. For many of us, it is one of those signs that warmer days are here and our community is ready to get out, gather, and enjoy the season.

What I love most about the Farmers Market is that it is not just about what you buy. It is about the experience.

It is the smell of fresh baked goods. The color of homegrown flowers. The chance to pick up farm fresh eggs, honey, produce, or something homemade. It is food trucks, live music on some Saturdays, familiar faces, and conversations that happen naturally as people walk through the market.

That is what makes it feel so special.

Events like this help a community grow in a way that is hard to measure. They give local growers, makers, bakers, and small businesses a place to be seen and supported. They give families a reason to get out on a Saturday morning. They give people a place to connect, slow down, and enjoy what is right here in our own backyard.

I think sometimes we forget how lucky we are to have these kinds of local traditions. The Farmers Market is one of those simple things that adds so much life to a community. It brings people downtown, supports local talent, and reminds us that shopping local does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it is as easy as showing up on a Saturday morning, grabbing a coffee or a treat, and visiting with the people who make this area feel like home.

The Le Mars Farmers Market will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Olson Cultural Events Center through October 10.

If you have not stopped by yet this season, put it on your list. Bring a friend, bring your kids, grab something fresh, and enjoy a little piece of what makes Le Mars such a great place to live.

Small towns grow stronger when people show up for each other, and the Farmers Market is a beautiful reminder of that.

Julie's Community Corner • April 20, 2026

FILLING THE WINDOWS, FILLING OUR COMMUNITY 💛

by Julie Hurt

“Fill the Window” donation drive flyer for CENTURY 21 ProLink in Le Mars, Iowa, supporting Sunnybrook Hope Center. Shows storefront windows filling with food donations, event dates April 13–May 1, drop-off location, and a list of needed items like cereal, canned goods, and household essentials.

FILLING THE WINDOWS, FILLING OUR COMMUNITY 💛

Each year, CENTURY 21 ProLink comes together for something that means a lot to us! The annual Fill the Window donation drive.

This year, we’re proud to partner with Sunnybrook Hope Center, an organization that provides essential support to individuals and families in need right here in our community.

Now through May 1st, we’re collecting donations to help fill the windows of our office right here in LeMars. I LOVE this visual reminder of what can happen when people come together.

It’s a simple idea, but a powerful one.

If you’d like to help, there are a couple easy ways:

Drop off donations at office in LeMars or Sioux City
Or order online and have it delivered to our office at 21 2st Ave NE Ste 1, LeMars, IA 51031

Real estate has always been about more than buying and selling homes, it’s about being part of a community and giving back whenever we can.

If you’ve been looking for a simple way to make a difference, this is it 💛

Buyer Advice • March 31, 2025

You Just Found The One!

by Julie Hurt

Falling in love with a house is easy—winning it in today’s market? That’s the real challenge. With multiple buyers eyeing the same property, it’s crucial to have a solid strategy to increase your chances of securing your dream home. Here’s what can go wrong and how to avoid it.

Scenario 1: You Hesitate, and Someone Else Swoops In

Solution: Act Fast and Be Prepared

In a fast-moving market, hesitation can cost you the home. If you find a property you love, be ready to submit a strong offer immediately. The best way to stay ahead is by getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start house hunting. Pre-approval signals to sellers that you’re serious and financially ready, reducing the chances of any delays that could cost you the home.

Additionally, working with an experienced real estate agent can help streamline the process and ensure your offer is submitted quickly and strategically.

Scenario 2: You Offer Too Low and Get Outbid

Solution: Be Competitive with Your Offer

It’s tempting to start with a low offer to see if the seller will negotiate, but in a competitive market, lowballing can backfire. If multiple buyers are interested, the seller will likely choose the highest and most appealing offer.

Instead of making a weak initial offer, work with your real estate agent to craft a compelling proposal. This could include offering slightly above asking price, being flexible with the closing date, or reducing contingencies to make your offer more attractive. Some buyers also include a personal letter to the seller, expressing why they love the home, which can sometimes make a difference.

Scenario 3: The Inspection Uncovers Issues

Solution: Use It as a Negotiation Tool, but Know When to Walk Away

A home inspection is a critical step in the buying process, as it can reveal potential problems that aren’t visible during a showing. If significant issues arise, don’t panic—use the findings as a negotiation tool. Depending on the severity of the issues, you may be able to request repairs, negotiate a price reduction, or ask for seller credits to cover the cost of fixing the problems.

However, it’s important to establish deal-breakers before making an offer. If the home has major structural issues or costly repairs that exceed your budget, it may be best to walk away and find a property that better fits your needs and finances.

Scenario 4: The Seller Rejects Your Offer

Solution: Be Ready for Counteroffers and Negotiations

It’s disappointing to have an offer rejected, but it’s not the end of the road. Sellers often counteroffer with different terms, and negotiations may go through several rounds before both parties agree.

Being flexible can give you an edge. If the seller rejects your initial offer, consider adjusting your terms—whether it’s increasing your bid, accommodating their preferred closing date, or waiving minor contingencies. Having a knowledgeable agent who understands negotiation strategies can make a huge difference in successfully closing the deal.

Bonus Tips for Winning a Bidding War:

Submit a Strong Earnest Money Deposit: A higher deposit shows sellers you’re serious about the purchase.
Be Flexible with Closing Dates: Accommodating the seller’s timeline can make your offer more attractive.
Consider an Escalation Clause: This automatically increases your bid if another higher offer comes in, up to your max budget.
Limit Contingencies: Too many contingencies can make your offer less appealing. If possible, keep them minimal.

Final Thoughts:

In a competitive market, speed, strategy, and preparation are key. By acting quickly, making a strong offer, and being ready for negotiations, you can increase your chances of securing your dream home—even when multiple buyers are in the mix. Remember, having an experienced real estate agent on your side can make all the difference in helping you navigate the process and land the perfect home.

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