Shelby County has an ample supply of existing housing for the current population. There are private sub-divisions in three of our communities and Harlan has a sub-division owned by the City of Harlan to accommodate future population growth. The existing homes offer a very nice variety of styles, location, and price ranges. The location ranges from properties in the city limits plus rural residential and acreages.

The housing market has not had a big fluctuation in prices over the past 3-4 years like other parts of the country. The market has been consistent with prices and transactions remaining constant.

The City of Harlan participated in four housing rehabilitation programs over the past 10 years. The result is that over 50 older homes have improved aesthetics and energy efficiency. New construction lots are available throughout the county.

Some of the larger sub-divisions are discussed below:

Elk Horn
Ten new condos were constructed in the last few years. Six lots remain available in two development sites.

Harlan
Almost 80 lots were developed by the city for a mix of workforce and other housing. Currently, 23 lots are sold with construction complete or underway. The city is selling lots for $1,000 throughout the 2011 calendar year. Another 18 scattered lots remain available along or near the golf course. As well as approximately 10 lots at a sub-division northwest of town, just outside the city limits.

Panama
A new housing addition in northwest Panama has 12 new homes and another 12 choice building lots available. These sites have great yard space for children with new streets, gutter, utility connections, etc.

Shelby
Hawthorne Hills is a new sub-division located ¾ mile north of Interstate 80. There are four constructed homes and another 10 lots available in the first phase of development.

Contact a Shelby County Real Estate Company for Additional Information :

Jan’s Realty
Defiance, IA
712-748-7000

Ouren Real Estate
Harlan, IA
712-755-3300
www.ouren.com

Terry Knapp Real Estate
Harlan, IA
712-755-5446
www.terryknapp.com