Melrose Real Estate

Melrose Real Estate

Welcome to Melrose, Iowa – a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Midwest. This charming city, with a population of around 400 residents, offers a unique blend of small-town warmth and a vibrant community spirit. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Melrose is a place where nature thrives, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, from fishing and boating on the nearby Lake Rathbun to hiking the scenic trails that wind through the lush countryside.

Melrose is known for its rich history and strong sense of community. Originally established in the late 19th century, the town boasts a quaint downtown area filled with local shops, cafes, and friendly faces. The annual community events, such as the Melrose Fair, bring residents together to celebrate their heritage and foster connections among neighbors, making it a welcoming place for families and newcomers alike.

Education is a cornerstone of the Melrose community, with access to quality schools that prioritize student success and development. The city’s commitment to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for children makes it an ideal place for families to settle down and grow.

For those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with the convenience of modern amenities, Melrose is perfectly situated just a short drive from larger cities like Ottumwa and Centerville, providing residents with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, retire in tranquility, or invest in a promising community, Melrose, Iowa, offers a delightful blend of charm, community, and opportunity. Come explore all that this enchanting city has to offer!

Newest Listings in Melrose

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 6341250 MLS

Enjoy the peaceful setting of this 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located on just under an acre near beautiful Lake Rathbun. Tucked away on a quiet dead-end road, this property offers the privacy and tranquility you've been looking for. With a little vision and some updates, this home could become the perfect weekend retreat, hunting cabin, or lake getaway. Conveniently located near boating, fishing, and all the outdoor recreation Lake Rathbun has to offer, this is an opportunity to create your own escape in a desirable location. This home is being sold as is.

10202 137th Ave, Melrose

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6340446 MLS

Enjoy the perfect lake retreat at Indian Ridge subdivision, just minutes from beautiful Rathbun Lake. Situated on two lots, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath fully furnished manufactured home offers plenty of space for relaxing, entertaining, and storing all your lake toys. The open-concept floor plan features a spacious kitchen, dining, and living area, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and friends. A bright four season room provides additional living space to enjoy year-round. Outside, you'll find a heated two-stall garage and a large enclosed carport that's ideal for a boat, motorhome, or extra recreational equipment. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, weekend getaway, or vacation property, this home offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and outdoor recreation. Located just minutes from boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, and all that Rathbun Lake has to offer, this is your opportunity to enjoy lake living at its finest.

88 Arrowhead Rd, Melrose

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 6339038 MLS

Exceptional Southern Iowa recreational retreat on Lake Rathbun's northwest shoreline! This rare 7-acre m/l property borders Lake Rathbun and the Waterfowl Refuge, offering direct access to over 23,000 acres of public hunting and recreational land and 11,000 acres of premier fishing waters. Perfect as a full-time residence, hunting lodge, vacation getaway, horse property, or investment opportunity, this property is designed for outdoor living. Features include an established food plot that attracts trophy whitetail deer and turkey, a stocked 30-foot-deep pond with walleye, perch, and redear sunfish, fenced pasture with gravity-fed well and hydrant, fruit trees, berry plantings, and a 16x34 above-ground pool. The updated home offers 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with new windows, siding, flooring, and extensive interior renovations. The open-concept layout is ideal for entertaining, while the spacious owner's suite features a spa-like bath. A wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and character, and the semi-covered 12x55 front deck provides stunning views of Lake Rathbun and the surrounding countryside. Additional improvements include a 30x40 pole barn and a 24x48 barn with horse stalls, providing ample space for boats, ATVs, equipment, livestock, and recreational vehicles. Properties offering this combination of lake views, hunting, fishing, acreage, wildlife habitat, privacy, and updated living space are rarely available.

10674 112th Ave, Melrose

Nice lot in a quieter subdivision near Rathbun Lake. Wind-n-Waves has its own boat ramp, plus is only 2.8 miles from Bridgeview boat ramp, 11 minutes from Honey Creek State Park, and only 1 1/2 hours from Des Moines!

LOT 8 BLK 4 Wind-N-Waves, Melrose

FLAT lot less than a 1/2 mile from Hwy S70 in Wind 'n Waves Subdivision near Rathbun Lake. No need to worry about HOA fees or restrictions, because there are none! Only Appanoose County Zoning restrictions apply. Water and electric are at the road to tie into and a private septic system will be needed. Drive by and take a look today!

813 Lakeshore Dr, Melrose

Build your dream getaway at Lazy Daz Ranch Estates! Lots 20 & 21 offer the perfect opportunity to own a slice of Iowa countryside with plenty of space to create your ideal retreat. Whether you're looking for a weekend escape, future home site, or recreational property, these adjoining lots provide flexibility and room to spread out. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, scenic views, and easy access to nearby outdoor recreation. Bring your home ideas and start making memories at Lazy Daz Ranch Estates today!

Lot 20 & 21 1st St., Melrose

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6337910 MLS

This property includes a nice 2-story home, detached garage, and great building - all on 1.2 acres inside the community of Melrose just 7 miles north of Lake Rathbun. The main floor offers a mudroom at the back entrance with laundry, full bathroom, a large dining room, and a very spacious oak kitchen with cabinet and counter space you've been dreaming of! The living room features an electric fireplace, and tall windows allow for great natural light throughout the entire main floor. Upstairs are three bedrooms, a large walk-in closet, and a second bathroom with tiled shower. Stamped concrete patio in the back is ideal for entertaining and relaxing. The 30 x 60 insulated building with concrete floor is a great bonus. The west end is heated and cooled by a new mini-split. Garden areas, established fruit trees, fantastic parking and storage - don't miss out on this property, schedule your showing today!

101 Tipperary St, Melrose

5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6337786 MLS

This exceptional Southern Iowa hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreational retreat, with a house and guest cottage, is ideally located on Lake Rathbun’s northwest shore and abuts Lake Rathbun and Waterfowl Refuge. This rare 12-acre estate offers unmatched privacy, stunning scenery, and direct access to over 23,000 acres of public and hunting land and 11,000 acres of premier fishing waters—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Designed for the avid outdoorsman, the property features an established food plot attracting trophy whitetail and turkey, plus a 30-foot-deep stocked pond with walleye, perch, and redear sunfish. The fully fenced rolling pasture includes a gravity-fed well and hydrant. Fruit trees and berries enhance both beauty and wildlife appeal. The updated main home offers 3 bedrooms and 3 baths with new windows, flooring, siding, and a renovated interior. The open-concept layout connects kitchen and dining areas, ideal for entertaining. The private owner’s suite features a spa-like bath, while a wood-burning fireplace adds warmth. A semi-covered 12x55 front deck showcases stunning lake views. A separate 2-bedroom, 1-bath guest cottage—formerly a successful Airbnb/VRBO—offers income potential or guest space. Outbuildings include a 30x40 pole barn and a 24x48 barn with horse stalls. A rare opportunity for a home, getaway, or income-producing retreat. Please review MLS 6339038 for more info on the main home for purchase.

10620 112th Ave, Melrose

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 6337556 MLS

Tucked away in the peaceful community of Lazy Daz near Rathbun Lake, this like new cabin is the perfect retreat for anyone seeking relaxation and simplicity. Cute, cozy, and thoughtfully designed, this property offers the feel of a brand-new home with all the comforts already in place. Step inside to find an inviting interior featuring modern finishes and a fresh, clean look throughout. The open layout maximizes space and functionality, making it ideal for weekend getaways or full-time living. All appliances are included, allowing for a truly turnkey experience just bring your personal touches and start enjoying lake life. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a vacation property, or an investment opportunity, this charming cabin checks all the boxes. Enjoy the serenity of nature while being just minutes from boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation at Rathbun Lake.

5253 5th St, Melrose

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 6336555 MLS

PRICE REDUCED!! This one-of-a-kind double A-frame is just as charming as you imagine. The unique home located in the Wind-n-Waves subdivision near Lake Rathbun is ready for your touch! This 3 bed/3 bath home has plenty of open space for entertaining and the finished basement features a large bedroom and bath equipped with a sauna. There are large closets with ample storage throughout, a walk-in pantry and small utility room right off the kitchen. Decks adorn both levels of the home making for beautiful views of the surrounding area and even a peek at Lake Rathbun itself!! There are also spectacular views from almost anywhere in the home whether you are preparing supper in the kitchen or you are cozied up in the family room with the wood-burning fireplace keeping you toasty in the background. This home has been meticulously maintained both inside and out! The triple tandem vehicle garage is wired for 220v, has a loft for storage, water, and is large enough to accommodate an RV/camper in addition to all your other toys and tools. There is also a smaller, detached garage with a wood closet closer to the home for parking and storage as well as a partially fenced in yard! This property is backed up by a whole house 20KW generator with automatic transfer switch covering the whole home. The home has 4 fruit trees, a grape arbor, and the Purple Martin houses come with spring/summer inhabitants for those bird lovers out there! Call today for a showing!

196 Lakeview Dr, Melrose

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6336375 MLS

This meticulously-maintained mobile home is ready for the 2026 Rathbun summer season! Located in Green Acres subdivision near Lake Rathbun, it has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with an open living/dining space for everyone to be together. It also has a covered outdoor porch large enough for outdoor furniture and plenty of yard where you can enjoy those beautiful summer evenings. Included on the property is a utility shed large enough to house a riding mower and more. The Green Acres subdivision also boasts amenities such as a private outdoor pool, stocked pond for fishing, a community center, playground and basketball court! Come take a look today, summer is right around the corner!

5339 Calvary Trl, Melrose

Located in the Wind-n-Waves subdivision near Rathbun Lake, this property includes three parcels totaling approximately 0.7 acres, offering plenty of space to build your ideal lake getaway. The lot sits in a quiet, secluded area with a tree line at the back, providing added privacy and a peaceful setting. Enjoy easy access to the water with the Bridgeview boat ramp just minutes away, and Honey Creek State Park only about 10 minutes down the road for boating, fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re planning a weekend retreat or a future lake home, this is a great opportunity to build the vacation property you’ve always dreamed of near Rathbun Lake. And the best part, no HOA Dues!

LOT 11-13 BLK 7 Wind-N-Waves, Melrose

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