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.

We are excited to officially launch Boulder Ridge, the newest Skogman Homes community in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area! With desirable lot sizes and styles, a prime location, and incredible introductory offers, Boulder Ridge is ready to welcome its first families.

As market trends continue to shift in 2025, so do the preferences of today’s homebuyers!

Deciding to build a house in the hectic world we live in can be an intimidating concept. However, having the right builder in your corner and some tips in your back pocket will help to make the process seem less daunting and more exciting.

Building a new home from the ground up is both exciting and daunting. Working with an informed and capable builder can push aside the uncertainties you may feel from all of the unknowns. Not all homebuilding companies are created equal, so it is important to find one you can partner with and feel confident in.

Inventory is low and we know finding a new home in this market is tough, so here is our breakdown of the top 4 reasons to consider buying an under-construction home. 

When it comes to buying a new house, there are a ton of things buyers take into consideration, like layout, bedrooms and more. Another important factor to keep in mind is what does it cost to own and maintain a home.