One of Iowa’s oldest real estate firms is turning the page with a new name and brand identity. Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty has officially rebranded as Realty87, the company announced.
The Cedar Rapids-based firm, which has operated continuously since 1887, remains under the same ownership and leadership.
The rebrand includes a new logo, updated signage, and refreshed marketing materials, but company officials said the real estate firm’s mission and personnel remain unchanged.
“Real estate is – and has always been – a local business,” Realty87 president Mike Esker said in a statement. “Our expertise and focus have always been right here in Iowa.”
Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty’s new name, Realty87, pays tribute to the firm’s founding year of 1887, and its 138-year presence in the region.
Mr. Esker said the rebrand reflects the company’s intent to honor its legacy while preparing for future growth across residential, commercial, land, luxury, and farm real estate sectors.
Marketing director James McClain provided an additional explanation of the reason for the name change.
“At the end of the day, real estate is a local business, and the rebrand reflects our focus on a name and strategy that better connect with our local markets,” Mr. McClain said. “It’s about having full control over our tools, technology, and approach – tailoring everything to meet the specific needs of our agents and clients. Every market is different, and we believe it should be run with that in mind.”
The company has long served as a major player in the Eastern Iowa real estate market and is considered one of the oldest continuously operating brokerages in the country.
“We’ve built something special over the last 138 years,” Mr. Esker said. “This move is about carrying that legacy forward and continuing to lead the way for generations to come.”
Realty87 will continue to operate from its Cedar Rapids headquarters, serving clients across the Corridor region.
The firm’s website is now live at Realty87.com.
According to the company’s website, Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty, now known as Realty87, has been based in Cedar Rapids since its founding by George T. Hedges in 1887. Initially known as “Hedges Company,” George opened the first office at First Avenue and Second Street SE in downtown Cedar Rapids.
For three-quarters of a century, the company was owned and operated by members of the Hedges family. During this time, Hedges Company developed large sections of Cedar Rapids, including Grand View, Wellington Heights, College Park, Westmoreland Place, Country Club Heights, Westfield, Cottage Grove Woods, and Honey Hill.
In 1982, Hedges Associates was purchased by Carl Esker and Ron and Kay Baty. In 1989, the Coldwell Banker franchise was purchased, adding international exposure for the company.
Today, Realty87 has four offices in Cedar Rapids and Marion, and is owned and operated by Carl and Mike Esker.
