A Trusted Guide in Real Estate & Life! As a father, grandfather, and friend, I bring a fun, energetic, and compassionate approach to both life and real estate. My down-to-earth nature and sense of humor help create a relaxed, no-pressure environment, where my clients feel comfortable, informed, and confident every step of the way. Buying or selling a home is one of life's biggest decisions, and my goal is to make the process not only seamless but also enjoyable. I was born and raised in a small town in Southwest Iowa and attended the University of Minnesota, Duluth, where I earned a BA in Business Administration. After college, I returned home, married my wife Julie, and together we built a wonderful life with four children and 12 amazing grandchildren. Before diving into real estate, I spent years in sales at John Deere before owning and operating two businesses. My real estate journey began in Clarinda, IA, in 1992, and in 1999, I made the move to the Des Moines area to expand my market presence. With over 30 years of experience, I've guided countless families, investors, and individuals through their buying and selling journeys. But what truly sets me apart? I believe real estate is about people, not just properties. I take the time to understand your goals, offer honest advice, and advocate for your best interests. I want you to feel like you're working with a trusted friend--because you are. When I'm not helping clients, you'll find me enjoying time at the lake, fishing, hunting, traveling, or simply socializing. I love meeting new people, hearing their stories, and staying connected. With an Associate Broker's license, CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation, and a long-standing presence in the Des Moines real estate community, I bring knowledge, experience, and a commitment to excellence. I also proudly serve on the Board of Ethics for the Des Moines Area Association of Realtors, have been an 18+ year Circle of Excellence Winner, and am an Endorsed Local Provider (ELP) with Dave Ramsey. If you're looking for a realtor who puts relationships first, makes the process stress-free, and brings decades of expertise to the table, I'd love the opportunity to help you. Let's find your next adventure together!
Community Involvement
City of Waukee Planning and Zoning Committee, Iowa Association of Realtors Ethics Committee Board,
HOBBIES/INTEREST
Hunting, Fishing, Traveling, Singing in Church Choir
Read More About John
Credentials
LICENSE
Real Estate - Iowa - # B32261000
Designation
CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
Top Producer
Broker / Associate Broker
REALTOR
Specialties
Buyer's Agent
Listing Agent
Notary
Relocation
Awards
2026
TOP AGENT
Waukee, IA
2026
TOP AGENT
Norwalk, IA
2026
TOP AGENT
Pleasant Hill, IA
Other Awards
Circle Of Excellence, Multi Year Platinum Winner for Sale Volume
Contact Information
Location
9500 University Ave #2112 West Des Moines, IA, 50266
Note: Reviews may include other agents on their team
What clients say about this agent....
Responsive
Knowledgeable
Professional
Communicative
Outstanding
Trustworthy
Available Remotely
Attentive
Great for new buyers
Hard working
Hollly P.
Review for Member: John Brummett
April 20, 2022
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
john and shawna helped me throughout the entire selling and buying process. They helped with staging, negotiations and house hunting. When unforeseen problems came up, they were prompt and expertly guided me through the experience. they went above and beyond and have continued to assist me after closing on my homes to ensure that i have been taken care of and am enjoying my new home. i have worked with multiple real estate agents throughout my years as a home owner and they are truly exceptional in their knowledge, experience and customer service!
Angelareagan7
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 10, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
From the moment we met John his honesty, willingness to work for us and dedication shown through! John helped us to purchase a new home and sell our existing older home. Throughout it all he was always available any time and any day. He was always prompt to get back to you and was always looking out for your best interest. I highly recommend John as he will go above and beyond for his clients!
Techlog
Review for Member: John Brummett
October 22, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
I moved to Iowa from Minnesota and John did and excellent job working with us at long distance. Then end result is, we found an excellent house that meets all are needs and in the right location Thanks
Immapapa
Review for Member: John Brummett
October 21, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John was very easy to talk to and work with. He helped me understand the process as a first time home buyer, and made the process painless. He has a lot of experience in the area, so I felt I could really trust his recommendations.
User03209525
Review for Member: John Brummett
January 28, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John was exceptional to work with. He was very patient with our timing needs, and his local knowledge, wisdom and support throughout the negotiation process made our experience truly excellent. We felt like we were his top priority. I would highly recommend John as a real estate professional.
Zuser20191112124045138
Review for Member: John Brummett
January 27, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John is the best realtor I know. I have used him for several purchases and his service is great!!. Highly recommend John and his team!!!! I had him show this place he helped me through the negotiations and also made the transaction so easy. You wont find a better realtor.
Davis K.
Review for Member: John Brummett
January 27, 2020
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
I highly recommend that anyone looking for a realtor in the area use this agent. He is the best real estate agent that I have ever worked with and worked very hard to find us the right home.
Abqcitylights4
Review for Member: John Brummett
October 21, 2016
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
An absolutely wonderful e,perience! We were house hunting from New Mexico and the search was virtually painless. When we arrived in Iowa to look in person, we had narrowed the search area and found our home day one. Tiffany did the visual inspections when we returned to New Mexico for the move. Thank you Tiffany and John!
Zuser20160816155649891
Review for Member: John Brummett
October 11, 2016
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
We used the Brummett Group in our out-of-state relocation to the Des Moines area. We would HIGHLY recommend this team! John's real estate knowledge and superior NEGOTIATION skills were the best we have encountered in our many years of buying and selling homes. Tiffany Ehler, ably showed us properties and subsequently answered EACH QUESTION or concern that we had. Laurel Peake, in the office professionally handled EVERY DETAIL of the purchase. Added to the craziness of purchasing a home, we unexpectedly experienced an ER health crisis the day of closing, and they were COMPASSIONATE and COMPETENT and we were able to close. successfully.
Stuntzy
Review for Member: John Brummett
October 3, 2016
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John was fantastic to work with. He was very personable and extremely knowledgeable. He gave us very realistic expectations and made sure we were up to date on where things were at throughout the process. John and his team are true professionals and we couldn't be happier with how things turned out, both with the sale of our previous home as well as the new home we purchased. I'd highly recommend John and his team to others.
User8236944
Review for Member: John Brummett
April 4, 2016
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
We have been so impressed with John both professionally and personally. He and his team are incredible. His knowledge of the area and of real estate in general is extremely helpful. His approach helps to bring a sense of calm and confidence when you're navigating the wild waters of selling and buying. He's also incredibly responsive. If I had a question, he got back to me immediately. If we needed help with a issue while shopping or after we purchased, he and his team were quick to dive in and help. In fact, we had a specific crisis when we only had a few hours left to do a home inspection and the home inspector I'd hired called to say he couldn't do the inspection when he'd committed to doing it. I let John and his team know and within an hour, they'd not only helped me secure a new home inspector... but he and I were actually doing the inspection. I've heard some horror stories from friends about their experiences with real estate agents. They've told me stories of promises that went unfulfilled, commitments broken and lack of communication. You won't experience any of that with John. I'd HIGHLY encourage anyone wanting a solid, helpful and professional real estate agent to work with John Brummett and his team. You will not regret it!
Jmwoodard0572
Review for Member: John Brummett
December 11, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
Our process with John was a great experience. We were purchasing a new construction home and he helped me so much in my negotiating the purchase agreement. His knowledge of the area and the market helped me to know I was making a good decision on the house I chose. He and his assistant were very responsive to all my questions during the sales process. Everything went so smooth and I love my house. I am very happy!
User237574
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 30, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John assisted us with a relocation from another state. He was able to effectively communicate over the phone and email to meet our needs during our home search process. He made time to meet with us when we were in Des Moines and assured us that he would continue to search for the right home for us until all of our needs were met. Once we found our home he assisted in providing us with financing options along with lining up a quick home inspection on very short notice. John works hard for his clients and will be the first realtor I contact when his services are needed again.
Eggers M.
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 18, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John has a lot of experience in this market. He knows each neighborhood intimately. If you are selling your house he will provide you with key insight greatly increasing your chances of selling. John makes the home selling and buying process simple and free from hassles. He has exceeded my families expectations twice now. If we were in need of the services of a realtor again in the future, my first call would be to John Brummett.
Carpenter R.
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 18, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John is the absolute BEST! We have worked with other agents both locally and out of state to purchase and sell property. Some have been "good", but none have worked as hard or tirelessly to guarantee that we were able to procure the property we desired with the least amount of hassle. Don't let his laid back manner fool you. He can and will negotiate every detail and get you the best deal available. Additionally, John and his assistant, Laurel Peake, managed every aspect of of our purchase and inspections for us, as we were out of state and unable to be on site. Great people, honest, straightforward, genuinely caring individuals-in my opinion, simply the best!!!
Ratesrus4
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 18, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
I've worked with John Brummett for the past 16 years and have purchased over 15 properties using his expertise. He is very knowledgeable and easy to work with. I've learned that a very important part of the buying or selling process is the negotiation between all parties in the transaction and John is a master at this! He is able to work with a variety of people with different personalities to negotiate the best possible deal for his clients. I have beat out several other competing offers on many of the properties I have purchased due to his amazing ability to work with others in a professional and respectful manner earning him the trust of other agents and sellers. John Brummett is an agent for life, not just an agent for the moment.
Freemanerin
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 18, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John helped us sell our older home quickly and get into a great new home in a very competitive market. He was responsive and knowledgable during the entire process. John is a great person that I would trust with my business again!
User03488834
Review for Member: John Brummett
November 17, 2015
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
My husband and I reached out to John to help us purchase our first home. It was an absolute relief working with him, as we were not knowledgeable. He helped us find our house and got us exactly what we wanted from searching to negotiating. We fully plan to reach out to John again. He has always been nothing but pleasant, approachable, and helpful.
Jellingsj
Review for Member: John Brummett
June 2, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
I was referred to John by a friend who used him in the past. Needless to say I was completely satisfied with the experience my fiancee and I had. John was great to work with and gave us great advice and guidance as we were both first time home buyers. He truly cares about his clients and wants the best for them. I would highly recommend him as he is a true professional and great all around person.
User4720124
Review for Member: John Brummett
March 31, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John was incredibly helpful to us in buying a new home. We were new to Des Moines, and John went out of his way to familiarize us with the area and make the buying experience as smooth as possible. John is extremely knowledgeable and his wisdom was extraordinarily helpful when discussing the pros and cons of a particular decision or property. He gives sound advice, is very personable, and was fun to work with. We give him our highest recommendation!
JWDrop
Review for Member: John Brummett
March 13, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
I have bought and sold two homes with John in the Des Moines metro and am now in the process of buying a new construction home with John. John has been very helpful and honest and I am confident he always has my best interest in mind. With this being the first new home I have bought, John has given me great insight to thing I may not have thought about. I have recommended John to anyone I know looking for a realtor and will continue to recommend him.
CarmenCarverOlsen
Review for Member: John Brummett
March 7, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
My family and I recently relocated to Iowa from Arizona. My first communication with John Brummett was over the phone and exchanging emails for several weeks. From the first time I spoke with him it was like speaking to someone whom we've known for a while. Very warm, friendly and down to earth. We told him what we wanted, the cities where we wanted to live. When my husband and I did fly out to start house hunting, we must have viewed over 20 homes. Some of the homes we viewed multiple times in the same day. John made it a very enjoyable experience. He filled us in on the tiny details that we would've over looked in regards to dealing with the builder. He explained the boundaries of the school district which was very important to us. We found our new home only two days of searching. Its nice to know that John still keeps in contact with us.
User4920123
Review for Member: John Brummett
March 7, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
We have worked with John for several years in the purchase of various investment properties that we have either fixed and sold or retained as rental property. John's experience and advice both as a realtor and landlord have helped us be successful with our real estate adventures.
User2860220
Review for Member: John Brummett
March 7, 2013
Local Knowledge
Process Expertise
Responsiveness
Negotiation skills
ZillowVERIFIED
John helped us purchase our first new construction home. He really listened to our needs and assisted us in finding the perfect house. John helped us navigate the buying process with ease. He helped us identify some extras to request, that we didn't think of. John also helped us determine how to upgrade amenities and include them in our loan. He was thorough in describing what to expect with our walk-through. If you are looking to buy or sell your home, this is the man to go to. He is personable, honest, and patient. A rare find in the real estate world! We will certainly use John to purchase our next home and we will be sending our friends and family to him as well.