Professional Excellence
Meets a Creative and Caring Touch

Monica has 20-plus years of sales and marketing experience and has been professionally caring for people for over 28 years. Since becoming licensed in 2012, her personal dedication and gift for working with people helped her quickly excel in the real estate business. Monica has earned her Senior Real Estate Specialist® designation. With this designation comes the expertise for assisting seniors and their families with later-in-life real estate transactions. She has experience with new construction, helping both buyers and builders from start to finish. In 2024 Monica became a partner at Lepic-Kroeger Realtors (LKR). Iowa City's largest and most established brokerage.

Monica’s dedication to providing outstanding service and becoming an expert in the real estate market helped her become a top producer in our market and across the county. Her leadership skills have helped to build and lead a fabulous growing team and her professionalism has awarded her several peer-nominated awards.

Monica graduated from UNI with a social work degree. She loves spending time with her husband and family. As a client, you can expect the same quality and attention that she gives them and the many people she’s cared for in the past. Her work ethic is evident in her family life. She gives the same energy to her profession - always influencing positive outcomes.

Monica involves herself in the community in a variety of ways. She is the current President of the Board for The Bird House, Hospice Home of Johnson County. She is a member of both the Johnson and Linn County Elderly Consortium, sat on the board of Elder Services, volunteers as a Friendly Visitor With Seniors, and delivered Meals on Wheels. She has been involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and currently leads a Financial Literacy Class and serves as the Finance Chair on the board of the University Club. She is also involved with the Housing Action Team, a committee of the Johnson County Livable Community. She was chosen as a member of the 2017/2018 Community Leadership Program by the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. Monica is also a part of the 100+ Women Who Care. Giving back is a very important part of Monica’s life.

Since joining the Monica Hayes Team in 2020, I have helped buyer’s and seller’s close on more than $30 million in both residential and commercial properties. With a background in business and a knack for numbers, my approach to real estate is built on transparency, honesty, and a touch of humor. I’m dedicated to empowering you in the real estate market by providing education and well-informed decision-making support. As an experienced negotiator, I’ll fiercely advocate for your interests. Originally from West Des Moines, Iowa, I have a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Drake University and a Master’s in Athletic Administration from the University of Iowa. Prior to real estate, I successfully ran Bravo Sports Marketing, Inc; a company I started when I was 24 years old. Beyond work, I’ve tackled Ironman triathlons, marathons, and enjoy family life with my wife and three children. I have extensive experience in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City markets, reside near Swisher, and have coached in youth sports. In my leisure time, I love golf, pickleball, bike rides, and playing euchre with my friends. I’m excited to work with you and help you win in real estate.

Designations 2021 Accredited Buyer’s Specialist® (ABR®) 2020 Licensed REALTOR®

Hi there—My name is Akimi Oya, your local expert in residential and commercial real estate in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids area. I am originally from Japan but have lived in the Iowa City area most of my life. With a strong background in both commercial and residential real estate, plus hands-on experience managing my own rental portfolio, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. In just my first two years in real estate, I closed over $22 million in real estate transactions, working closely with investors and homeowners alike to achieve their goals. Whether you’re looking to grow your rental portfolio, find your dream home, or sell your current home, I’m here to help every step of the way.

I believe that buying or selling a home should be a fun and exciting journey, and I’m dedicated to making the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible for my clients. I’m a strong advocate for my clients, always working to secure the best possible outcome for them. With a commitment to diligent negotiation, I ensure that every detail is handled with care, striving to exceed my clients' expectations.

When I'm not doing real estate, you can find me on a run, trying out local exercise classes, or taking a walk around the neighborhood. Health and fitness is important to me, and I'm always trying to find ways to stay active! I am also a volunteer coach for Girls on the Run nonprofit at my local elementary school—it’s the perfect way for me to stay active while making a positive impact in my community. You may see me from time to time on a pickleball court. I'm a foodie at heart, so I love exploring local coffee shops and new restaurants. Sunday dinners at my parents' house is my favorite way to end the weekend!

My mission is to turn your real estate goals into reality, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, I’m committed to providing the highest level of service with integrity, care, and enthusiasm. Let’s work together to make your next real estate move a success.

Hello! I’ve been a Realtor since 2019, primarily focusing on residential real estate and investment properties. I’ve developed a keen eye for value and am driven by my clients’ needs. I’m known for going above and beyond for my clients and have a knack for building relationships. My wife Katie and I are both Iowans, and we’ve been in Iowa City since 2009. We’re blessed with two beautiful kids, who are actively involved in various activities in the Iowa City community. I’m a proud graduate of the University of Iowa, class of 2013, and being a Hawkeye means a lot to me! When I’m not immersed in the world of Real Estate, I enjoy golfing, staying active through exercise, coaching, and cheering for my favorite teams, especially the Hawkeyes. I look forward to working with you in your real estate adventure, and making you feel supported and cared for every step of the way.

Designations 2019 Licensed REALTOR®

Hey there! My name is Grace Laubenthal and I am a licensed Realtor on the Monica Hayes Team. I have lived in the Corridor area my entire life making me very familiar with both the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids areas. I bring a deep, personal understanding of the local market to every client interaction while prioritizing honesty, integrity, and a hard work ethic. Above all else, I believe in building lasting relationships with my clients. As I joins forces with the Monica Hayes Team, I leverage my collective knowledge and extensive background to provide an unmatched service to ensure your real estate journey is both smooth and successful. I am committed to turning your real estate dreams into reality.

Outside of real estate, I have a diverse range of interests as I am passionate about leading an active and fulfilling lifestyle. I am an avid fitness enthusiast who loves to exercise by lifting weights. I also love exploring new local restaurants in our community and traveling to new places. Most importantly, I cherish the time spent with my family and friends along with my fur babies creating valuable memories.

I am well-equipped to guide you through every step of the process and am excited to help you achieve your real estate goals!

Blayke is an Iowa native and is very familiar with the amazing communities in and surrounding The Corridor. Growing up around family members in real estate, it has always been a passion of hers and something she knew she wanted to do. Blayke is newly licensed and joined the Monica Hayes Team as a buyers specialist. She is very excited to start making new connections and helping others. Her ultimate goal is to remove the stress and worries from the buying process and help make it enjoyable and exciting for you and your families! She values the client’s needs above all and can’t wait to help you find the perfect fit. Outside of real estate, you can find her golfing and trying new courses, going on walks, or spending time at her family’s lake house in the Ozarks! She also likes to spend her free time traveling and trying many new restaurants along the way.

I’m Nick Diaz, and I’m proud to bring my experience in banking and real estate to The Monica Hayes Team. With a background in the financial industry, I offer a unique perspective on real estate that allows me to help clients navigate the market with confidence. Joining this team has been an exciting step, and I’m committed to providing top-notch service while always keeping my clients' best interests at heart.

What drives me every day is my passion for helping others. I truly believe in educating my clients so they can make informed decisions. Whether it's explaining the financial aspects of buying or selling a home, or simply keeping clients updated on the latest market trends, I make it a priority to ensure they understand each step of the process. I’m also known for being caring and tenacious—I don’t give up until I know my clients are taken care of.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me staying active. I’m an avid golfer and fitness enthusiast who loves working out and staying in shape. I also enjoy reading and exploring new ideas, and I’ve got a creative side that I express through various crafts. These hobbies keep me balanced, and I believe that maintaining a healthy, well-rounded life is key to success in all areas.

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or just learn more about the real estate market, I’d love to be your resource. My goal is to guide you through the process with care, education, and dedication to making your real estate experience as smooth as possible.

As your professional real estate advisor, I focus on client satisfaction. My business is about service and I am not happy until you are happy. My years in the business have provided me the experience to assist you with nearly every real estate need. Whether it's finding a home, finding the best loan, or helping you get the most out of selling your home I am here to guide you. If there is anything you need, please let me know.