c.1920 Two Bedroom Iowa Craftsman Home Reduced to Under $95K

This was the home of Arnold Louis Wente (1906-2005). Arnold married Martha Graening (1908-1992) in 1929 and purchased this house the same year.  He worked for many years for the Priebe Valley Oil company and later was a part owner of a Conoco Station. Arnold and Martha raised their three boys in the home, Norman, James and David. They were especially proud of their sons, two of whom became pastors in adulthood.

After the death of Martha in 1992, Arnold continued to live in the home until 1996, after which he relocated to Minneapolis. The Wente family, therefore, owned this home for almost 70 years.

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Pros of Waterloo, IA

Affordable Cost of Living

• Housing prices and rents are below the national average, especially compared to larger Midwest metros.

• Utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs are generally reasonable.

Stronger Job Market (for its size)

• More employment options than many Iowa cities of similar size.

• Key industries include manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, education, and insurance.

• Proximity to John Deere, UnityPoint Health, and other major employers.

Access to Higher Education

• Close partnership with University of Northern Iowa (UNI) in neighboring Cedar Falls.

• Adds cultural events, sports, and educational opportunities.

Parks & Outdoor Recreation

• Extensive trail system (Cedar Valley Nature Trail).

• Cedar River, George Wyth State Park, and numerous city parks for biking, kayaking, and fishing.

More Amenities Than a Small Town

• Shopping centers, movie theaters, local restaurants, breweries, and festivals.

• Minor league sports (Waterloo Bucks baseball, Black Hawks hockey).

Easy Commutes

• Low traffic and short drive times.

• Easy to get around compared to big cities.

Diverse & Community-Oriented

• More racial and cultural diversity than many Iowa cities.

• Strong sense of community involvement and local events.

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Cons of Waterloo, IA

Crime Rates

• Crime is higher than the Iowa average, particularly property crime.

• Safety varies significantly by neighborhood, so location choice matters.

Aging Infrastructure

• Some areas have older housing stock and roads that need maintenance.

• Parts of downtown and certain neighborhoods are still in revitalization phases.

Weather Extremes

• Cold, snowy winters and humid summers.

• Flooding can occur due to the Cedar River, though mitigation has improved.

Limited Big-City Entertainment

• While better than small towns, Waterloo still lacks the variety of major metros.

• Many residents travel to Des Moines, Minneapolis, or Iowa City for major concerts or events.

Car-Dependent

• Walkability is limited outside a few neighborhoods.

• Public transportation exists but is not extensive.

Economic Gaps

• Income inequality is more noticeable than in nearby Cedar Falls.

• Some areas struggle with poverty and underinvestment.

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If interested in a property, pleases contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.

2006 W 3rd St, Waterloo, IA   $99,900

• Contact Realtor: Ryan Backes 
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