(Atlantic) The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated 50 years of Meyer & Gross Real Estate on Thursday, November 5th, at the Rock Island Depot.
Owner Melissa Ihnen shared the history of the business, which dates back to the mid 70’s when Dave Meyer was selling real estate alongside Ted Becker. In 1976, Meyer decided to venture out on his own, and he approached Dale Gross about becoming a licensed real estate agent and eventual partner in the business. On November 19, 1976, Dave Meyer Real Estate was officially incorporated, marking the beginning of what would become Meyer & Gross Real Estate.
The company became an ERA franchise in 1978, and in the early 1980s, Meyer left the business, allowing Gross to purchase the remaining ownership. Dale kept the Meyer & Gross name, joking that nobody would want to buy a house from “Gross Real Estate.”
Melissa’s own history with Meyer & Gross began in 1988 when she joined the company as office manager. Although she stepped away from full-time work to raise her family, she remained involved with the business over the years. She eventually earned her real estate license and later purchased the company January 1, 2012 from Dale, continuing its legacy of serving the Atlantic area.
Another chapter began in 2021 when Century 21 merged with Meyer & Gross, bringing additional agents and experience to the team. Today, the company has eight real estate agents – Dave Knudsen, Krista Young, Norma Hemphill, Lana Westphalen, Miranda Adams, Rocky Anderson, Crystal Schroder and Serena Muhlbauer, an office manager, Karen Helms, and a newly added property management service. The team primarily serves Cass County and surrounding communities, focusing on areas where their local knowledge can best serve buyers and sellers.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Meyer & Gross recently introduced a refreshed logo and signage, giving the longtime business an updated look while honoring its history. The celebration will continue with a 50th Anniversary Open House on Thursday, November 19th, from 4–7 PM at The Venue in Atlantic. Community members are invited to stop by, enjoy refreshments and celebrate the milestone with the team.
When asked what she enjoys most about real estate, Melissa shared her love of exploring homes, particularly older properties with original woodwork and unique histories. She also expressed her appreciation for the community that has supported Meyer & Gross throughout the years, noting how fortunate they are to work and live in such a supportive place.
Meyer & Gross Real Estate Company is located at 621 Poplar Street in Atlantic. For more information, call 712-243-4100 or visit www.meyerandgross.com.
Pictured Left to Right: Kathie Hockenberry, Julie Waters, Cammey Schmidt, Janet Cappel, Ashley Gessert, Alisha Blake, Lana Westphalen, April Meyer, Chris Schroeder, Crystal Schroeder, Anne Quist, Brianna, Rob Clausen, Melissa Ihnen, Krysta Young, Dr. Keith Leonard, Karen Helms, Chris Parks, Sue Liston, Krysta Hanson, Jen McEntaffer, Dolly Bergmann, Kelsey Beschorner
