How to Choose A Realtor

All Lake Okoboji Realtors will claim to be able to offer you the world.  All Realtors will claim to be the best.  As you search for the right agent, the most important thing to consider is if they make you feel comfortable.  Sounds simple doesn't it?  Well, sometimes, it takes a little time to determine the "right fit" for you and your family.  Don't be afraid to interview many different realtors before choosing the right one.  If you aren't 100% comfortable with your relationship with your Realtor, it will be a long and uncomfortable experience.  Make sure your Realtor has a plan.  Make sure they will followup on open houses, and offer you the feedback that you deserve.  Make sure they have an honest track record, and equally as important, make sure they have knowledge of the area.  Make sure that YOU come before an agent's commission.  You will know if the agent is there for you first, or the money. 

We will discuss things as simple as your preferred contact method.  Are you a busy person who prefers texting, or do you like the personal touch of a phone call.  Maybe you prefer emails.  We can communicate the way YOU prefer, not the way I prefer.

I offer you knowledge:

I am a lifelong resident of the Iowa Great Lakes and have a thorough knowledge of the real estate market as well as endless contacts.  I hold a Business Management degree while graduating Cumma Sum Laude from Buena Vista University.  I grew up in the construction business which allows the opportunity to answer your construction related questions on the spot.   Going all the way back to middle school and through college and I worked and managed various businesses in the service industry in the Iowa Great Lakes, such as restaurants and hotels, learning very quickly that the customer always comes first.  As an investor, can your current agent answer your questions regarding 1031 like-kind exchanges?  Can they offer you guidance if you are in a rut and looking for short sale? 


I offer you honesty and integrity: 

As a RE/MAX agent, I take great pride in the fact that we do things "the right way".  I am a part of a company that is changing the face of the real estate industry and our team is proud to share values of honesty and integrity with each and every client we work with.  With experience managing hundreds of employees, I understand what it means to work and treat people by "the golden rule".  You deserve the same.


I offer you the best marketing and the most trusted brand in real estate, RE/MAX

With me as your listing agent, I can give you a brand that continues to receive awards and recognition nationally.  Not only is your home or business marketed locally, I am able to offer you national marketing exposure, which is very important considering our level of tourism.  Not only do we offer our own local creativity, we have endless resources with RE/MAX.Along with this, I have developed ListingNiche, offering you over 100 websites to search on and if you are a seller, 100's of sites to feature your listing.  No other broker or agent can come close to the online presence I offer my clients.  It ALL starts on the web now.  Take advantage of that by listing with me.

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Aaron Jones

Cell: 712.320.9442

Will Kretsinger

Cell: 712.301.4040

Community Updates

Taco House

One of a kind Authentic Mexican Cuisine right here in West Okoboji! A local favorite and rated five stars by visitors young and old. Be sure to put this as a favorite on your list of places to not miss when you are vacationing in the Lakes area. Close to Terrace Park so if you are feeling up for a small walk you may walk from Terrace Park to the Taco House.

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in West Okoboji

O'Farrell Sisters

O'Farrell Sisters in Okoboji

The O'Farrell Sister is a historic Okoboji Tradition that one must check out for breakfast and lunch!

'Farrell Sisters History
The O'Farrell Sisters restaurant was born in 1949 at the bridge on Hwy 71, between East and West Lake Okoboji. Edna Mae and Arlene O'Farrell bought the business from Ike Kissinger who was running for Sheriff of Dickinson County.

In the early years the girls were open seven days a week and had a booming business in no time. The fried chicken dinners on Sunday evenings were especially popular. There were times when the line waiting to get in was so long they'd have to lock the door and would often run out of chicken!

In 1959 Arlene married and moved to Tallahassee, Florida with her husband Furman Henderson. Edna Mae and Ferne continued in the restaurant, moving to its present location that same year. This spot had a garden and chicken coup, which was moved to the house across the street.

Ferne died in 1974 and Edna Mae in 1978. Arlene sold the business to nieces Joyce Gapinski, Jo Ann Anderson, Charlotte Sarvie and Cheri Petersen (these are married names). The nieces successfully ran the restaurant from 1979 through 2003. After losing Jo Ann in 1997 and Cheri in 2002, Joyce and Charlotte decided to sell after the 2003 season.

The rest is to be continued...

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Okoboji

Boulders Inn

Boulders Inn and Suites promises to make your Okoboji vacation comfortable and relaxing. This new hotel just south of Emerald Hills golf course between Milford and Arnolds Park offers 40 rooms with suites to meet your individual needs. One of the best things about Boulders Inn is that it is within walking distance of the Taco House. For some of you, I know that can be a big deal!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Milford

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