Decatur, IA

Decatur is a small town located in southeastern Iowa. The population was 2,836 at the 2010 census. Decatur is home to a number of businesses and industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. Real estate is one of the main economic drivers in Decatur.

The history of real estate in Decatur can be traced back to the early days of the town. In 1853, James W. Grimes established a store on Main Street that sold goods such as groceries, hardware, and clothing. Grimes also operated a hotel onsite that catered to travelers passing through Decatur on their way to other parts of Iowa or Illinois. In 1892, J.W. Hurlbut opened Hurlbut's Mercantile Store on North Main Street which became one of the most successful businesses in Decatur during its time. Hurlbut's was known for its wide variety of merchandise and its competitive prices; it was also one of the first stores in Decatur to offer installment buying plans for customers who could not afford to purchase everything at once.

During the early 1900s, real estate began to become an important part of Decatur's economy as more people moved into town looking for affordable housing options. In 1907, A&P grocery store owner Jens Jensen built Jensen House on North Main Street which served as an example for other developers who were looking to build new homes in Decatur; Jensen House set a new standard for quality construction that was followed by subsequent homebuilders throughout the 1920s and 1930s .

In 1922, Ransom & Son opened Ransom's Department Store which became one of the largest retailers in town; it was later renamed Ransom's Plaza after Ransom family members took over ownership . In 1939 , Kresge Company opened Kresge Plaza which became one of the largest shopping centers in Iowa at the time ; it featured more than 50 stores including Sears and Roebuck . During this same period , several developers started building single-family homes which quickly became popular among Decaturs residents; these homes were typically constructed using local limestone , brick , and wood materials .

In recent years , real estate has continued to be an important part of Decaturs economy ; however , there have been some changes due to increased competition from larger cities such as Des Moinesand Cedar Rapidswhich have been attractingmore peopleand businessesinto their respective areas overthe past few decades . Despite these challenges , Decatur remainsa vibrant community with many businessesand industriesthat supportthe local economy .