As new home design trends continue to shift toward flexibility, today’s homebuyers are looking for spaces that can do more. Instead of single-purpose rooms, buyers want flexible floor plans, multipurpose rooms, smart storage, and modern home features that adapt to busy schedules, growing families, work-from-home needs, hobbies, and everyday life.

Marion, Iowa has become much more than a city near Cedar Rapids. Over the last decade, it has continued to grow into a destination of its own — with a thriving Uptown district, local events, parks, trails, new city improvements, expanding neighborhoods, and a business community that continues to gain momentum.

Today’s new homes are being designed with more than just the interior in mind. Outdoor spaces are becoming an important part of how homeowners relax, entertain, and enjoy their home every day.

For many homebuyers, deciding whether to build a home or buy an existing house is one of the biggest decisions in the home search process. In Iowa, more buyers are discovering the advantages of building a semi-custom home, where the home is designed and built specifically for them before construction begins.

A new neighborhood is taking shape in Marion. Boulder Ridge, Skogman Homes’ newest single-family community, offers a prime location, flexible homebuilding options, and convenient access to everything the Marion and Cedar Rapids area has to offer.

At Skogman Homes, “built locally” isn’t just a tagline — it’s part of who we are. From the products we source to the companies we partner with and the people who work on site, we intentionally choose local whenever possible. That approach builds stronger relationships, supports trusted workmanship, and results in homes crafted with care by people who take pride in what they do.

We work with 50+ local contractors, suppliers, and tradespeople to build homes that aren’t just well-constructed, but community-constructed. These long-standing partnerships support Eastern Iowa’s economy while bringing added craftsmanship, reliability, and attention to detail to every home we build.

Here’s a closer look at just a few of the local companies who help shape our homes — and strengthen the communities we serve.

By Jennifer Skogman, President of Skogman Homes

After walking through hundreds of new homes every year, I’ve noticed something: design trends may change, but what people actually want stays surprisingly consistent.

When buyers tour Skogman Homes, the same questions, comments, and reactions come up again and again. These aren’t just Pinterest ideas — they’re the features people fall in love with in real life.

Here’s what I’m seeing buyers prioritize most in 2026.

Staying close to home this winter doesn’t mean staying bored. From outdoor adventures to indoor activities, holiday traditions, and quick day trips, the Cedar Rapids–Marion area offers plenty to keep kids, families, couples, and friends busy all season long.

Mortgage rates are trending downward, creating new opportunities for buyers — and even some homeowners — across Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Iowa City. While some are still waiting for the “perfect” rate, this moment may mark a turning point when rates, prices, and inventory align to make late 2025 one of the most strategic times to buy or refinance in Eastern Iowa.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Eastern Iowa, Mt. Vernon is a community that blends small-town charm with modern convenience. Known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly atmosphere, the town has become a fast-growing destination
for families in the Corridor. Now, with Spring Meadow Heights, Skogman Realty is proud to introduce a new development that offers homeowners the chance to build their dream home in this thriving community.