South of Grand

Des Moines, IA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$425,000 (2025)
Median Home Price
62 (Somewhat walkable; higher near Ingersoll Ave and Grand Ave)
Walkability Score
Public schools are highly rated (B+ to A-); private options are well regarded.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Generally bounded by Grand Avenue to the north, Ingersoll Avenue to the south, 31st Street to the east, and 56th Street to the west. Adjacent to Waterbury and Greenwood neighborhoods.

Zip Codes

50312

Market Data Summary

Price Range$325,000 - $1,200,000+ (historic mansions and luxury homes at upper end)
Price per Sq Ft$210 - $285/sq ft (2025)
Inventory LevelsLow to moderate; new listings are quickly absorbed, especially in the $350k-$600k range.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesHistoric mansionsLuxury estatesOccasional townhomes

Architectural Styles

Tudor RevivalColonial RevivalCraftsmanMid-century modernContemporary infill

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.25 to 1 acre; larger lots common for historic homes
Home Age Range1900s-1960s (historic core); some newer infill (2000s-2020s)
Construction QualityGenerally high; many homes feature original woodwork, brick/stone exteriors, and extensive renovations.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Predominantly established professionals, executives, and families; higher median income than city average; diverse age range with many long-term residents.

Community Vibe

Tight-knit, historic, and prestigious; pride of ownership is evident. Residents value privacy, green space, and community engagement.

Typical Residents

  • Established families
  • Young professionals
  • Retirees
  • Executives

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly; strong neighborhood association, annual events, and proximity to parks and top schools.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Greenwood Park
  • Ashworth Park
  • Des Moines Art Center & Rose Garden
  • Nearby bike trails

Dining Options

  • Upscale bistros
  • Farm-to-table restaurants
  • Classic diners
  • Cafés along Ingersoll Ave

Shopping Centers

  • Ingersoll Avenue corridor
  • Valley Junction (short drive)

Local Businesses

  • Artisan coffee shops
  • Boutique retailers
  • Local bakeries
  • Specialty grocers

Education & Schools

Public schools are highly rated (B+ to A-); private options are well regarded.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Greenwood Elementary
  • Hanawalt Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Callanan Middle School

High Schools

  • Roosevelt High School

Private Schools

  • St. Augustin Catholic School
  • Dowling Catholic (nearby)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • DART bus routes along Grand Ave and Ingersoll Ave

Major Roads

  • Grand Avenue
  • Ingersoll Avenue
  • 31st Street
  • 42nd Street

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times5-10 minutes to downtown Des Moines; 15-20 minutes to West Des Moines business parks.
WalkabilityModerate; walkable to parks, schools, and some shops/restaurants.
ParkingAmple street and driveway parking; some historic homes have detached garages.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Established families
  • Executives relocating to Des Moines
  • Buyers seeking historic homes
  • Luxury buyers

Key Selling Points

  • Prestigious address
  • Historic architecture
  • Proximity to top schools and downtown
  • Large lots and mature trees

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively for condition; renovated homes command premium. Historic homes with original features are highly valued.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may need updates or repairs.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports and highlight recent upgrades; connect buyers with reputable local contractors.

Objection: Higher property taxes than other Des Moines neighborhoods.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize strong school ratings, community amenities, and long-term appreciation.

Objection: Limited walkability compared to downtown.

Response Strategy:

Showcase proximity to parks, schools, and the short drive to Ingersoll dining/shopping.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate to high; historic homes and proximity to downtown support long-term value.

Rental Demand

Moderate; most homes are owner-occupied, but executive rentals and short-term furnished options are in demand.

Buyer Competition

High for move-in-ready and historic properties; bidding wars not uncommon in spring/summer.

Best For

  • Move-up buyers
  • Executives
  • Families seeking top schools
  • Buyers seeking historic charm

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require maintenance/updating
  • Higher property taxes
  • Limited new construction

Professional Recommendations

1

Leverage the neighborhood's historic narrative and prestige in all marketing.

2

Network with local contractors and designers for renovation-minded buyers.

3

Host community-focused open houses to showcase neighborhood culture.

4

Stay informed on Invest DSM grant opportunities for adjacent areas.

5

Highlight school ratings and proximity to parks in all buyer communications.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Waterbury
  • Greenwood Historic
  • Waveland Woods

Market Positioning

Premier historic neighborhood for discerning buyers seeking character and convenience.

Competitive Advantages

  • Prestige and historic charm
  • Proximity to downtown and parks
  • Top-rated schools

Price Comparison

Higher median price than Waveland Woods; similar to Waterbury and Greenwood Historic.

Investment Metrics

3.8% - 4.5% (executive rentals)
Cap Rates
4% - 5% gross yield (single-family rentals)
Rental Yields
18-22 (reflects owner-occupant preference)
Price-to-Rent
Limited for traditional rentals; better for furnished executive or short-term rentals.
Cash Flow
4% annual appreciation projected through 2027.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Challenging due to price point; best suited for buyers with strong financials or family assistance.

Move-Up Buyers

Ideal for those seeking more space, prestige, and top schools.

Downsizers

Attractive for those wanting historic charm and walkability, but may prefer smaller homes or condos elsewhere.

Investors

Best suited for executive rental or renovation/flip strategies; limited cash flow for long-term rentals.

Relocators

Highly desirable for executives and professionals moving to Des Moines; proximity to downtown is a major draw.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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