
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
The top term used in home listings in Des Moines was "garage," according to Zillow.
Why it matters: The language in listings gives a sense as to what's most desirable in the city's red-hot real estate market, as agents compete to catch a potential buyer's attention.
The top 10 Zillow terms in Des Moines:
- Garage (49% of listings)
- Fireplace (35%)
- Walk-in closet (27%)
- Fenced backyard (24%)
- Hardwood (23%)
- Patio (22%)
- Pet-friendly condo (21%)
- Bar (20%)
- Stainless steel (19%)
- Granite (17%)
The state of play: April Seydel, sales manager of Hubbell Homes, told Axios that Des Moines buyers want spacious homes with outdoor spaces.
- What's in: Kitchen pendant lights and custom cabinet hardware.
- What's out: Carpet and the farmhouse style.
The big picture: Des Moines buyers are similar to national buyers — we just want space for our cars, families and pets.
This story first appeared in the Axios Des Moines newsletter, designed to help readers get smarter, faster on the most consequential news unfolding in their own backyard.

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