Build to order
Make early choices about the lot, plan, finishes, construction stages, and your move timing.
New construction in the Des Moines metro
A new home, with a clearer plan.
Compare communities, new-home options, builder questions, and the timing that shapes the move before the details begin to stack up.
The quick answer
New construction is more than a floor plan.
A brand-new home can be a strong fit when newer systems, a specific layout, or lower immediate maintenance are high priorities. The important work is comparing the full picture: the exact location, what is included, the timeline, the contract, and whether the home works for your next several years.
Choose your starting point
There is more than one way to buy new.
Buy a spec home
Consider a home already under construction when timing matters but you still want something new.
Find a near-complete home
Compare move-in timing, remaining selections, and the details that still need a closer look.
Sell and buy at the same time
Shape the sale of your current home around the next purchase before either side becomes urgent.
Where to start looking
Compare areas before you compare finishes.
New construction is available in different forms across the metro. Des Moines belongs in the conversation, alongside growing suburban communities, because the right fit depends on your preferred location and daily routine.
Des Moines
Infill, townhome, condo, and newer-home opportunities with closer-in access.
Explore the area →West Des Moines
A range of established and newer communities with varied commute patterns.
Explore the area →Ankeny
Growing neighborhoods and a broad mix of newer housing choices.
Explore the area →Waukee
Newer development and west-side options for buyers comparing space and location.
Explore the area →Grimes
New-build opportunities near established amenities and metro access.
Explore the area →Bondurant, Johnston & Norwalk
Different development patterns, home styles, and daily-drive trade-offs to compare.
Explore the area →The new construction roadmap
Six decisions, in the right order.
- 01
Prepare your budget
Start with lending, monthly comfort, and the costs beyond the base price.
- 02
Narrow the location
Compare the commute, community, lot, and the rhythm of life you want after move-in.
- 03
Evaluate the builder and home
Understand the plan, included features, warranty, contract terms, and available choices.
- 04
Make selections with context
Keep upgrades connected to your budget, resale comfort, and the decisions that matter most.
- 05
Follow construction milestones
Know the schedule, site visits, inspection opportunities, and what needs a decision before closing.
- 06
Final walkthrough and close
Confirm the completed home, records, warranty information, and the next steps for move-in.
Look beyond the advertised price
Ask what is included, what is optional, and what comes later.
Model homes can make a decision feel simple. The useful comparison is more detailed: lot premiums, selected finishes, appliance packages, landscaping, window coverings, association fees, taxes, lender incentives, warranties, and closing costs can all affect the final commitment.
Read the new construction under $400K guide →
New or established?
Choose the trade-off that fits your life.
Established homes
Mature streets, central locations, character, and a wider range of housing ages. Maintenance needs and updates can vary considerably by property.
Explore older-home guidance →New construction
Newer systems, current layouts, and a different ownership starting point. Builder terms, construction timing, and the full final cost deserve close attention.
Explore Des Moines neighborhoods →
Selling and buying at the same time
Make room for the home you are moving toward.
If a new construction purchase depends on selling your current home, both decisions need to work at the same time. Natasha helps you consider equity, financing conversations, construction timing, contingencies, and practical move options early.
Get the Sell & Buy Game Plan →Keep planning
Useful next steps for a new-home search.
Guidance from Natasha Ratliff
Representation that stays with your whole move.
Natasha Ratliff, CRS, SRS, helps Des Moines metro buyers compare new construction with the same care they bring to any major purchase. Her builder relationships and seller experience help connect location, contract questions, inspection planning, and the next move.
Ratliff Real Estate Group is brokered by RE/MAX Precision.
Talk through a new construction plan
Before you choose a new home, start here.
Do I need my own agent for new construction?+
It is wise to have your own representation before visiting a model home or discussing a builder contract. Natasha can help you compare the choices and questions that affect your purchase.
What costs should I ask about beyond the advertised price?+
Ask about the lot, selected upgrades, lender requirements, closing costs, association fees, taxes, landscaping, appliances, and any work that may remain after closing. The details differ by home and builder.
Can I sell my current home and buy a new build at the same time?+
Often, yes. The best approach depends on your equity, financing, construction stage, sale timing, and comfort with risk. Planning both sides early gives you more options.
Should I still have a new home inspected?+
A new home can still benefit from inspections at the appropriate points in the process. Discuss the builder's timeline and inspection opportunities before you commit.
When you are ready
Start with the right questions.
Bring your target move date, budget, location ideas, and current-home situation. We will build a practical starting point from there.