Des Moines Homes For Sale | Des Moines Real Estate
The American Midwest is an extremely underrated place when it comes to popular perception of job opportunities and real estate investment prospects. However, the real estate agents of Des Moines, Iowa would like you to know that nothing could be further from the truth. Des Moines, IA real estate developments may not be as glamorous and expensive as Bloor West Village Houses in Toronto, but they're a solid investment and an excellent choice for anyone wishing to live somewhere that has big city opportunities without big city price tags.
Des Moines, Iowa: Insurance Capitol of the United States
Des Moines is the capitol city in the Midwestern state of Iowa. It is located on the Des Moines River where it joins up with the Raccoon River, approximately 165 miles from Omaha, Nebraska. Between the city itself and the surrounding suburbs Des Moines has a population of around 197,000, making it the most populous city in Iowa. Des Moines, IA has the humid continental climate characteristic of most of the Midwest, meaning it has hot, humid summers, cold, snowy winters, stormy springs (which can sometimes bring tornados), and colorful autumns.
Historically, the Des Moines, IA area has been home to humans for more than 3,000 years, as archeologists have discovered pre-historic villages dating as far back as 1300 AD. Western settlement in the area began in 1843 with the establishment of Fort Des Moines. It was built to control Sauk and Meskawi Indians moved from further east but was abandoned in 1846, giving way to the town which was incorporated in 1851. The name "Des Moines" was taken from the name of the river. There is some debate as to why the river was named "Riveire Des Moines" but everyone can agree it means "River of the Monks" in French.
Modern Des Moines, Iowa is a hub for the insurance industry. It is home to many headquarters offices and large operations belonging to such companies as the Principal Financial Group, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Wells Fargo and the ING Group. Business Wire magazine has rated Des Moines the number one spot for U.S. insurance companies. Des Moines has also appeared on several magazine lists as an excellent place to live or do business.
Des Moines, Iowa has some unique features which attract both new residents and visitors. The public transport system is augmented by an extensive network of skywalks totaling almost 3.5 miles that connect downtown buildings so that pedestrians don't have to go outside during the winter. The city also has a picnicking terrace outside the state capital building that features an enormous walk-on granite map of the state, and a 22 acre zoo park that mimics landscapes in Africa and Australia.
Neighborhoods and Home Styles in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines, Iowa has gone through a number of periods of urban renewal, the results of which show in the eclectic variety of neighborhoods and home styles you can find in the city. Some even date back to the "City Beautiful" project undertaken at the turn of the 19th century. Although most of the ornate beaux-arts fountains and public buildings have since been replaced, some of the structures survive and so do some of the homes they inspired.
Downtown Des Moines, IA is currently undergoing renovations at the behest of the Principal Financial Group. The project is principally concerned with public infrastructure like sidewalks, gardens and pedestrian bridges, however it combined with the success of shops in the nearby East Village neighborhood have inspired a housing boom that could be an excellent investment opportunity or a chance to own a brand new place. Many older downtown buildings are being converted to condos and lofts.
As to what you can afford in Des Moines, you can decide for yourself. The 2007 average prices for various housing types are as follows: detached houses $134,000. Townhouses $145,000. Condos $158,000-$173,000. Renters paid an average of $600 per month.
Contact a Des Moines, IA Real Estate Agent
If you've decided you'd rather get more for your money and live somewhere with lots of opportunity without the hustle and bustle then why not go over to our contact page? It contains helpful links and contact information for a number of Des Moines, Iowa area real estate agents who can help to smooth your transition from your current city of residence to theirs. They will be happy to browse the real estate listings with you to help you find the right property for your home or investment.
