Dig It – A Real Estate Podcast

As rural towns across Iowa work to attract residents, support employers, and strengthen local economies, housing has become one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. In this special re-release of Dig It, Origin Homes revisits a timely conversation about how community-led housing development is creating new opportunities for families and helping small towns invest in their future.

Since this episode was originally recorded, Origin Homes has continued to build momentum across the state, recently earning the HousingIowa Single-Family Developer Award and securing opportunities to develop homes in four additional Iowa communities through the Iowa Finance Authority's Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program. These milestones reinforce a growing need for innovative housing solutions that make homeownership more attainable in rural Iowa.

Together, the conversation explores:

• The current state of housing in rural Iowa
• The challenges and opportunities facing rural homeownership
• How housing supports workforce attraction and retention
• The role of broadband and infrastructure in community development
• Why community-led partnerships are critical to long-term success
• What sustainable growth looks like for small Iowa communities
• 
  

Whether you're a community leader, employer, developer, policymaker, or simply passionate about the future of rural Iowa, this episode offers valuable insight into how housing can serve as a catalyst for economic vitality, community pride, and lasting impact.

Like, share, and subscribe to Dig It for more conversations shaping the future of Iowa communities.

We're replaying one of our fan-favorites from the most recent season as we look to bring you new stories in the near future!

Get your hard hat on—this is where the blueprints meet the big ideas. Join Hubbell Realty’s VP of Development, Matt Weller, and Grow Omaha development guru Jeff Beals as we dive into the heart of the city: evolving skylines, transformative communities, and the bridges—literal & metaphorical—that tie them together.Each episode, we’ll explore:New projects rising across Omaha: residential, commercial, mixed-use developments that embody the city’s growth and grit.Behind-the-scenes in construction: from zoning to design and the latest in the industryTrends & impact: what the boom in infrastructure, transportation, and placemaking means for quality of life, investment, and urban identity.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn dirt into development magic, how developers balance risk with vision, or where Omaha is headed next— check out this episode! Links: https://growomaha.com/Learn more about Hubbell Omaha-based projects: https://hubbellcompanies.com/

Buying a home doesn't have to feel overwhelming.In this episode, we take a closer look at today's Iowa housing market alongside our Senior New Home Sales Pro, Taylor. We're chatting current real estate trends, opportunities for buyers, market challenges and smart strategies for making confident homeownership decisions and how AI/social can play a role in it all. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, preparing to move, or interested in real estate investing, you'll gain valuable insights into navigating the market and finding the right opportunity.

Searching for a new home in a new community?: https://hubbellhomes.com 

Check out Taylor's hilarious pool dive: https://www.instagram.com/homeswithtaylor.hubbell/

Iowa's rivers aren't just flowing. They're becoming destinations.

In this episode, we talk with ICON Water Trails about the exciting transformation happening across Central Iowa, including 21 completed access sites, two major downtown attractions opening in just SIX months, new youth-focused outdoor programming and ambitious water quality improvements. Learn how this once-in-a-generation project is turning rivers into engines for recreation, tourism and community connection.

Learn more about ICON Water Trails: https://www.iconwatertrails.com

SOLD OUT in golf but there's still time to donate: https://hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic.perfectgolfevent.com/

Other ways to give: https://ia.easterseals.com/take-action/ways-give

Proudly produced by Amplified DSM 

As Easterseals Iowa prepares to celebrate 100 years of impact, the organization is investing in an even bigger future.

In this episode, we discuss Easterseals Iowa's upcoming centennial celebration, major capital improvement campaign and plans to expand camp and program offerings for individuals with disabilities across Iowa. Learn how the organization continues to create opportunities for independence, inclusion and lifelong connections.

Learn More about Easterseals: ⁠https://ia.easterseals.com/⁠ 

Explore resources: ⁠https://ia.easterseals.com/explore-resources⁠

TWO days left to golf: ⁠https://hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic.perfectgolfevent.com/⁠

Other ways to give: ⁠https://ia.easterseals.com/take-action/ways-give⁠

Proudly produced by Amplified DSM 

Recovery is about more than healing. It's about reclaiming your life.

In this episode, leaders from On With Life share how specialized neuro rehabilitation helps individuals recovering from brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease and other neurologic conditions regain independence, purpose and hope. Learn how innovative rehabilitation programs, family support and community partnerships are transforming lives across Iowa and Hubbell is proud to support their future expansions.

On With Life: https://www.onwithlife.org

Celebrate Life: https://www.onwithlife.org/giving-back/fundraising-events

Come Golf with Us: https://hubbell-extreme-charity-golf-classic.perfectgolfevent.com/

Find more brain health resources: https://www.onwithlife.org/resources

Proudly produced by Amplified DSM 

On the final part of this Dig It series, we’re coming to you live from Gray’s Clubhouse for a conversation about the events, experiences, and sense of community that make Gray’s Station a unique place to live and gather.

Our guest is Laura Meinert, Events and Marketing Coordinator at Hubbell Realty Company, who shares the story behind Gray’s Station’s growing lineup of free community events. From the evolution of the popular music series to the recent grand opening of the Clubhouse, Laura offers an inside look at the planning, creativity, and community connections that bring these experiences to life.

Plus, we briefly spotlight the limited opportunities still available for homeownership in Gray’s Station, including remaining townhome inventory and the continued growth of this thriving downtown neighborhood.

If you're interested in community building, event planning, urban development, or simply discovering what makes Gray’s Station such a special place, this episode is for you. https://graysstation.com/https://www.hubbellhomes.com/communities/des-moines/grays-station

This week on Dig It, we're coming to you live from Gray’s Clubhouse for a conversation about the evolving rental market and the lifestyle that’s attracting residents to LINC Apartments in Gray’s Station.

Joining us is Jeremiah French, Senior Assistant Property Manager at Indigo Living, who shares insights on the community’s growth, the successful launch of a new phase, and the amenities and floor plans designed to meet the needs of today’s renters.

We discuss how LINC has become a cornerstone of Gray’s Station, balancing luxury and affordability with modern apartments, standout amenities, and a convenient location connected to downtown Des Moines. Jeremiah also shares what renters are looking for today and why communities like LINC continue to thrive.

If you're interested in multifamily housing, urban living, real estate trends, or simply discovering what makes Gray’s Station one of Des Moines’ most exciting neighborhoods, this episode is for you.https://graysstation.com/https://www.lincatgraysstation.com/

Join us as we're live from the Gray's Clubhouse in this three part podcast drop! This week on Dig It, we’re coming to you live from Gray’s Clubhouse for an inside look at Telus Condos, a boutique condominium development bringing a fresh homeownership opportunity to Gray’s Station starting at just $230k!

Project Manager Michael Bialas joins the show to discuss the evolution of Telus, which has transformed into an intimate 32-home community designed to deliver spacious living, abundant natural light, and impressive views of downtown Des Moines. Michael shares updates on construction progress, buyer interest, and the unique opportunity for prospective homeowners to tour the development before completion.

We also explore the growing demand for condominium living, what buyers are looking for in today’s market, and how Telus fits into the broader vision for Gray’s Station. From future neighborhood amenities to the continued growth of downtown Des Moines, this conversation highlights why Telus is generating excitement among both local residents and buyers relocating from outside the metro.

If you're interested in real estate trends, homeownership opportunities, or the future of residential development in Des Moines, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Take a Tour: https://graysstation.com/condos-for-sale/

From updates on Valley West Mall and The Grand Experience to the city’s proposed “blended neighborhood” zoning district, we break down how West Des Moines is rethinking suburban development to support more attainable, walkable housing options and how Hubbells' here to help. We also discuss the potential impact of Iowa’s property tax legislation and what it means for cities, developers, and homeowners moving forward.

Host: Claire BrehmerGuests: Ryan Moffatt & Caleb SmithExecutive Producers: Amplified DSM

Real estate for the real world: https://www.hubbellrealty.com/Explore West Des Moines: https://www.wdm.iowa.gov/government/community-economic-development