From Pushing a Broom to Building a Legacy: Matt Hansen’s Pocatello Perspective

When you talk to Matt Hansen, it doesn’t take long to realize he sees something special in Pocatello—something many might overlook. A born-and-raised Idahoan, Matt has watched this town evolve, and he’s betting big on where it’s headed next.

In this week’s Hello Pocatello podcast episode, Matt shares his story: from sweeping floors on construction sites to managing multimillion-dollar industrial projects, to flipping rundown homes, and eventually becoming one of East Idaho’s most passionate real estate professionals. His journey isn’t just about houses—it’s about mindset, community, and believing in something bigger than yourself.

“Positivity is a choice,” he says. “The stories we tell ourselves become our reality.”

Grit, Growth, and the Bonneville Flood

Matt’s love for Pocatello runs deep—right down to the dirt. Literally. He shares one of the most surprising facts about the region: none of Pocatello’s topsoil is original. It was washed away 15,000 years ago by the massive Bonneville Flood. That kind of raw, geologic upheaval seems fitting for a place that’s constantly reshaping and rebuilding itself.

Pocatello, he says, is a blue-collar town full of smart, gritty people who love the outdoors and care about each other. And while it may not have the flash of a big city, it has something better: authenticity, affordability, and heart.

Why Pocatello Is Just Getting Started

Matt points to major infrastructure upgrades, new businesses, and affordable home prices (the current average is around $320,000) as signs that Pocatello is just scratching the surface of its potential. Compared to places like California—where the average home costs over $1.1 million—Pocatello still offers opportunity and room to grow.

He encourages first-time homebuyers not to be intimidated. “Take a chance on yourself,” he says. “Find professionals who will help you understand your options and figure out what you’re truly ready for.”

Investing in People, Not Just Property

Beyond real estate, Matt is a co-founder of East Idaho Mastermind, a weekly coffee meetup that brings together local entrepreneurs for encouragement, accountability, and big ideas. You’ll find him there every Monday morning at 7am at Gate City Coffee, ready to connect and help others build their dreams, just like he did.

And when it comes to supporting Pocatello, he walks the talk—championing events like Revive at Five, advocating for local businesses, and investing in a town he truly believes in.

“This place has character,” Matt says. “It’s not perfect—but it’s real. And I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Want to learn more about real estate in East Idaho? Get in touch with Matt Hansen or drop by East Idaho Mastermind to meet the movers and shakers building the future of Pocatello—one idea, one home, one cup of coffee at a time.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode with Matt on our website: www.hellopocatello.com