About Les
About Les Sulgrove
Les Sulgrove is a respected voice in Iowa real estate, known for turning complex market data into clear, actionable intelligence. Over a career spanning decades in central Iowa, Les transitioned from a active practitioner guiding local buyers and sellers to a key leader shaping housing data standards and market analysis across the state.
Today, Les serves as the MLS Director for NoCoast MLS and the Statewide Housing Market Analyst for Iowa REALTORS®. Through his data-driven approach, weekly market updates, and frequent industry presentations, he provides clarity on housing trends for real estate professionals, lenders, policy makers, and consumers alike.
Foundations in Central Iowa Real Estate - Early Career
Les began his real estate career as a licensed practitioner in the Greater Des Moines area. Through hands-on client representation, he built a deep, granular understanding of local neighborhoods, property valuations, and transactional dynamics.
Pioneering Market Intelligence & Digital Media - Mid Career
Recognizing a need for accessible, transparent housing metrics, Les launched SimplyDesMoines, providing localized market commentary, video updates, and stats. He quickly became a go-to source for Des Moines-area REALTORS® seeking to understand broader market movements.
MLS Leadership & NoCoast MLS - Expansion
Les Stepped into executive MLS management, taking on the role of MLS Director for NoCoast MLS. In this capacity, he oversees system operations, data integrity, and strategic service delivery for thousands of real estate subscribers across Iowa.
Statewide Housing Market Analyst - Current Role
Les expanded his scope as the official Statewide Housing Market Analyst and Spokesperson for Iowa REALTORS®. Les aggregate and interprets statewide housing analytics, producing regular reports, market forecasts, and media commentary on Iowa's residential property landscape.
Public Speaking & Industry Leadership
Les is a sought-after speaker who bridges the gap between complex housing statistics and real-world application. His speaking engagements and committee work include:
- Local & Regional Real Estate Groups: Regular presenter for Des Moines-area brokerages, local REALTOR® associations, and regional market forums.
- Banking & Lending Organizations: Speaker and panelist for groups like the Iowa Mortgage Bankers Association, addressing rate impacts, inventory trends, and buyer demographics.
- Assessment & Policy Forums: Featured presenter at the Iowa Assessors Association Conference, offering macro-level housing perspectives to property valuation officials.
- State & National Industry Representation: Serve as a spokesperson for Iowa REALTORS® while actively contributing to state and national committees and advisory panels on MLS technology, data standards, and market trends.