Matthew Mauro, the driving force behind RE/MAX Concepts, reveals his secrets to mastering real estate—from flipping homes to building a thriving investment portfolio. Discover how he balances creativity with smart economic strategies, navigates current market trends, and plans to bring a vibrant Italian district to Des Moines. Dial in and take your real estate journey to the next level!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The power of flipping properties in understanding the real estate market

• A financing strategy for leveraging equity and growing portfolio 

• Why it’s vital to stay objective and avoid over-investment

• Upcoming changes in the real estate industry

• Exciting developments in South Side Des Moines

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover

• National Association of REALTORS®

About Matthew Mauro

Matthew Mauro, a sales associate owner at RE/MAX Concepts, is a Des Moines native and owner/broker who got licensed at 18 with a focus on flipping and renting residential and commercial real estate. Achieving these goals early on provided him with extensive knowledge about homes and their construction. Matthew is known for his straightforward, informative, and no-pressure approach, which his clients greatly appreciate.

Connect with Matthew

• Website: RE/MAX Concepts

• Facebook: REMAX Concepts

• Instagram: @remax_concepts

• TikTok: @remaxconcepts

• LinkedIn: RE/MAX Concepts 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Thinking about buying or developing property in Iowa? Mel Pins spills the beans on everything from pesky environmental regulations to turning those brownfield eyesores into goldmines. Learn how to navigate site assessments, dodge potential liabilities, and make your next project a green success story.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The role of environmental due diligence in Iowa real estate transactions

• How to conduct and understand Phase One and Phase Two environmental site assessments

• Opportunities and challenges of redeveloping brownfield sites

• Key considerations for property owners dealing with contamination

• Available financial assistance for developers through tax credits and grants

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Citizen Soldiers by Stephen E. Ambrose | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle 

About Mel Pins

Mel Pins has 32 years of professional experience in environmental regulatory compliance and public policy, with a strong focus on environmental issues in real estate transactions and economic redevelopment projects. He has extensive expertise in managing solid waste and recycling issues. In his current role at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), where he has served for 19 years, Mel is also involved in the recruitment and facilitation of human resource and hiring processes. His deep knowledge of environmental regulations and public policy makes him a key resource for developers, landowners, and local governments navigating complex environmental challenges in real estate and redevelopment projects.

Connect with Mel 

• Website: Iowa DNR 

• LinkedIn: Mel Pins

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: 515-729-4616

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Matt Van Maanen CFP®, WMCP®, CAP®, ChFC®, and CASL® shares his unique expertise at the intersection of real estate investment and wealth management. Dial in as we unpack his strategic approach to securing a sustainable financial future, both for himself and his clients. From managing extensive property portfolios to mastering estate planning, he offers key insights on achieving long-term success and stability in these vital areas.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The vitality of planning for future generations and protecting wealth

• A unique approach to property management 

• Benefits and risks of investing in smaller towns vs. larger cities

• Expert tips on effective estate planning

• Why you must balance business success with personal fulfillment

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Killing Sacred Cows by Garrett B. Gunderson and Stephen Palmer | Paperback and Hardcover

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover

• What Would Billionaires Do? by Garrett Gunderson 

About Matt Van Maanen CFP®, WMCP®, CAP®, ChFC®, CASL®

Matt Van Maanen has been with Financial Architects since 2007.  He specializes in helping business owners, families, and individuals accomplish their goals by developing and implementing unique, custom-designed financial strategies.  He is a graduate of Central College in Pella, IA, and has obtained the designations of Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®), Wealth Management Certified Professional (WMCP®), Chartered Advisor of Philanthropy (CAP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), and Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL®).  In 2023 and 2024, he was recognized by Forbes & Shook Research as a Best-in-State Financial Security Professional.

Connect with Matt CFP®, WMCP®, CAP®, ChFC®, CASL®

• Website: Matt Van Maanen    

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

In this episode, we sit down with Hollie Zajicek to uncover the driving force behind Norwalk, Iowa's rapid growth. Learn about their ambitious projects and developments, transforming this community into a dynamic hub for residents and businesses alike. Tune in to explore the strategic vision propelling Norwalk to new heights!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Significant developments in Norwalk and how they are shaping the city's future

• Economic development vs. community development

• Reasons why Norwalk stands out as a desirable location for both businesses and residents

• Insights into how Norwalk has navigated economic challenges

• Projects, announcements, and potential major developments in the Southwest Development Corridor

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle 

• City of Norwalk, Iowa 

About Hollie Zajicek

Hollie Zajicek is the Economic Development Director for the City of Norwalk, Iowa. With a diverse background that spans health and fitness, community development, and economic development, Hollie brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role. She has been instrumental in driving significant projects such as Norwalk Central and the Southwest Development Corridor, which are pivotal in boosting the city's commercial and industrial growth. Hollie’s career journey includes owning a gym in Florida, working with USDA Rural Development, and serving as Executive Director at Warren County Economic Development. Her dedication to improving Norwalk's infrastructure and fostering a thriving business environment has made her a key figure in the city's rapid development.

Connect with Hollie

• Website: Norwalk Central 

• Email: [email protected] 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

How do you go from initial struggles to mastering real estate investing? In this dynamic episode, we are joined by real estate power duo Julio Calvo and Abraham Sanchez as they share their journey from Des Moines to property flipping success, discussing their strategies, the importance of creating value, and their exciting plans for expanding into new markets and commercial real estate. Dial in and get inspired to elevate your own real estate game!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Significant challenges and learning curves during a first-time flip

• How Julio and Abraham's partnership optimizes their flipping process

• The value of high-quality renovations in both flipping and rental properties

• Innovative business strategies for maximizing returns

• Powerful advice for aspiring real estate agents and investors

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Keller Williams Realty

• Realty ONE Group

• EFCO Forms

About Abraham Sanchez and Julio Calvo

Abraham Sanchez, Owner and CEO of AJ Solutions LLC, is a seasoned real estate professional hailing from Des Moines, Iowa. With a background rooted in the local community, Abraham brings over seven years of experience as a real estate agent and investor. His journey in the real estate world began approximately six years ago, transitioning from a focus on traditional real estate to the more dynamic and lucrative field of property flipping.

Julio Calvo is the Principal Owner of The Calvo Real Estate Group and a real estate agent with Realty ONE Group Impact in West Des Moines, Iowa. Specializing in residential and commercial real estate, Julio excels in sales, marketing, and property flipping. Since 2016, he has built a reputation for transforming distressed properties into market-ready homes. Julio is also a licensed real estate agent in New Jersey, leveraging a broad network of investors, agents, and contractors to drive his business forward.

Connect with Abraham and Julio

• Facebook: Julio Calvo | Abraham Sanchez

• Facebook Group: The Calvo Real Estate Group   

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Elevate your real estate game with insights from Mike Macri III CCIM, MRED, CRE, who brings over two decades of industry expertise to the discussion. He delves into housing market dynamics, leveraging educational institutions and exploring non-traditional sectors that can transform your investing and professional growth approach.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Factors influencing investment decisions and the fluid nature of commercial real estate markets 

• The importance of tailored investment strategies based on individual goals

• Investment approaches when facing economic events affecting real estate markets 

• How educational programs prepare students for real-world challenges in property investment 

• Unique investment opportunities in non-traditional sectors 

About Mike Macri III CCIM, MRED, CRE

Mike Macri, III, graduated from the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business in 2002 and quickly moved to become a top-producing agent within the Iowa Market. Mike recently joined CBRE, bringing his well-built reputation for creative and critical thinking, which exemplifies his professionalism and ability to solve complex problems. He is responsible for nearly 2.0 million SF of development projects and properties in Iowa and the Des Moines metropolitan area on behalf of various Landlords and developers. In addition, Mike has built a working relationship with many investors, tenants, government agencies, and developers nationwide and with employees locally and globally. Mike currently serves as the Director of Real Estate for Business Transition Solutions for both the State and National site selections and consulting for numerous Developers and Investors. Mike also serves as a principal at PWM Companies, LLC, a commercial real estate development company based in North Liberty, IA.

Connect with Mike 

• Website: Des Moines Commercial Real Estate | CBRE 

• LinkedIn: Mike Macri III, CCIM, MRED

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Join us as Chris Trosper shares insights from his extensive career, which spans across notable companies, and is now at Opus Development Company. Dive into the complexities of asset management, construction lending, and commercial development with his expert guidance. Don't miss this deep dive into the dynamic world of real estate development!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Asset management and its importance in real estate

• The Opus Group: Operations and Chris's current focus in the company

• How rising interest rates affect real estate development 

• Business advice on the value of partnering with trustworthy individuals

• Challenges and opportunities in the current real estate market

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover

About Chris Trosper

Chris Trosper is the Director of Real Estate Development at Opus Development Company, L.L.C., where he spearheads commercial development initiatives. With an educational background in structural engineering from Vanderbilt and extensive professional experience, including significant roles at Principal Global Investors and Hubbell Realty, he brings a unique engineering and finance perspective to real estate development. At Principal, he was integral in asset management and construction lending, navigating the complexities of the Great Recession. Now at Opus, Chris continues to leverage his expertise in development deals and property management across various states.

Connect with Chris

• Website: The Opus Group

• Email: [email protected]  

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Looking for insights into the Des Moines real estate market? Join us as we sit down with Pennie Carroll to share her journey from humble beginnings to leading a company, emphasizing the importance of trust, relationship-building, and community involvement. Discover the strategies that have made her a trusted name in real estate and learn how she leverages her investment properties to travel the world.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The importance of customer trust and relationship-building in real estate

• How Pennie transitioned from cleaning homes to selling and investing in real estate

• Reasons why Pennie prefers holding properties over flipping

• Benefits and challenges of managing rental properties

• Ways investors can use investment properties to facilitate global travel

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Airbnb

• HomeExchange

About Pennie Carroll

Pennie Carroll is the founder and leader of Pennie Carroll & Associates Real Estate in Des Moines, with over 22 years of experience in the industry. She built her business on delivering high-quality service and results, always prioritizing the needs of home buyers and sellers. Pennie and her team are dedicated to finding homes that truly meet their client's needs, focusing on building lasting relationships rather than just closing sales.

Passionate about real estate, Pennie loves meeting people from all walks of life and helping them achieve their goals, whether buying, selling, or investing. Her personal touch and commitment to client satisfaction have made her a trusted name in the Des Moines real estate market.

Outside of work, Pennie is a proud grandmother of five and has been happily married for 38 years. Reach out to Pennie for a seamless and caring real estate experience.

Connect with Pennie 

• Website: Pennie Carroll & Associates Real Estate

• Instagram: @pcarealestate

• Phone Number: (515) 490-8025

• Email: [email protected]  

• Office: 3232 Hubbell Ave Des Moines, IA 50317

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

From his humble beginnings, driven by the desire to honor his parents' dreams, to his strategic shift from engineering to full-time real estate entrepreneurship, Junior Ibarra will share pivotal moments, the mentors who shaped his path, and the powerful strategies that turned his vision into reality. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a true industry trailblazer!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The role of mentorship in real estate success

• Strategies to create and lead a highly successful real estate team

• Actionable steps for managing profitable property investments

• Junior’s perspective on the future of the Des Moines housing market

• The importance of work ethic and perseverance as an investor 

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki | Paperback and Kindle 

• The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle   

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle   

• The Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller, Dave Jenks, and Jay Papasan | Paperback and Kindle 

About Junior Ibarra

Junior Ibarra is the CEO and Team Leader of Ibarra Realty Group (IRG), a 28-member team recognized for its performance in helping 315 families achieve their real estate goals in 2021.

Born in Mexico, Junior moved to Perry, Iowa, and later settled in Des Moines. He graduated with honors from North High School and earned degrees in Industrial Engineering and Business from Iowa State University.

Junior transitioned from an engineering career to real estate in 2013, driven by his passion for homeownership and addressing wealth disparities. He founded IRG to promote home ownership and advocate for affordable housing in Iowa.

Connect with Junior 

• Website: Team IRG 

• LinkedIn: Jorge Junior Ibarra

• Instagram: @jorge_junior_ibarra

• Facebook: Jorge Junior Ibarra 

• TikTok: @jorge_junior_ibarra

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

If you're interested in small business empowerment and how structured support can transform local economies, tune in! Megan Milligan shares her passion for helping small businesses thrive and offers insights on foundational practices every entrepreneur should know. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for both entrepreneurs and community leaders, so better press play now!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The role of small businesses in local economies 

• Fundamental aspects of running a business 

• Coaching and resources offered to entrepreneurs by the Iowa Center

• How real estate can influence small business operations and growth

• Final thoughts on entrepreneurship as a vehicle for change

About Megan Milligan

Megan Milligan is the President and CEO of The Iowa Center, an economic development organization dedicated to empowering Iowans through business coaching, credit + lending, and tax services. Her role involves safeguarding the organization's mission, vision, and strategic direction, collaborating closely with the board of directors and staff to ensure growth and fulfill client commitments. As the public voice of the organization, Megan is passionate about engaging with groups to discuss entrepreneurship and economic development.

Connect with Megan

• Website: Iowa Center for Economic Success

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.