Des Moines, Iowa: A Premier Destination for Commercial Real Estate

Introduction

Des Moines, Iowa stands as a vibrant hub for commercial real estate (CRE) investment, offering a dynamic blend of economic stability and growth potential. As the largest city in Iowa, Des Moines boasts a diverse economy with key industry clusters in finance, insurance, healthcare, and agribusiness. Its strategic position in the heart of the Midwest makes it an attractive location for businesses seeking robust infrastructure and access to major markets.

Economic and Industry Overview

Des Moines is renowned for its financial services sector, hosting major players like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo, which drive significant demand for office spaces. Additionally, the city’s burgeoning biotech and healthcare industries, exemplified by companies such as Corteva Agriscience, contribute to the need for specialized facilities, including research labs and medical offices. Economic growth initiatives from organizations like the Greater Des Moines Partnership continue to bolster the city’s appeal as a commercial real estate hotspot.

Strategic Location and Transportation Infrastructure

Des Moines is strategically located at the intersection of major highways, including Interstates 35 and 80, offering seamless connectivity to regional and national markets. The Des Moines International Airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, while the Union Pacific Railroad provides comprehensive freight services. These transportation networks are pivotal for businesses, enhancing distribution capabilities and access to a skilled labor pool.

Commercial Real Estate Inventory & Zoning

The city’s CRE landscape is varied, with prominent submarkets such as the Central Business District (CBD), which is rich in office and retail spaces. Industrial corridors on the city's outskirts cater to logistics and manufacturing needs. Des Moines embraces innovation districts that support tech and startup ecosystems. Recent zoning amendments and incentives, detailed in the City of Des Moines Zoning Map, encourage sustainable development and urban revitalization.

Major Employers and Institutions

Des Moines is home to influential employers including Nationwide Mutual Insurance, Meredith Corporation, and Hy-Vee, Inc., each contributing to CRE demand. Higher education institutions like Drake University and Des Moines University attract a steady flow of students and professionals. The city’s business environment is further enriched by the presence of state government offices. For more information, visit the Des Moines Business Directory.

Notable Commercial Developments & Projects

The city is witnessing transformative developments such as the Gray's Station mixed-use community and the Market District revitalization project. These ventures, often supported by public-private partnerships, are reshaping urban landscapes and creating new opportunities within designated Opportunity Zones. Further details can be found on the Des Moines Planning Department website.

Building Permits, Planning, and Development Tools

For developers and investors, Des Moines offers a comprehensive suite of planning and development resources. Key portals include the Building and Safety Department, the Permitting Portal, and the GIS Parcel Viewer. These resources streamline the development process and provide critical insights into city planning and zoning regulations.

Market Data & Economic Reports

Des Moines benefits from extensive public data resources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the city’s Open Data Portal. Brevitas leverages AI-powered aggregation of such datasets to deliver actionable insights. Explore Brevitas-powered dashboards for in-depth analysis on Des Moines CRE market trends.

Why Use Brevitas for Des Moines, Iowa CRE?

Brevitas stands out as a premier CRE marketplace, offering AI-driven discovery, real-time market alerts, and smart property pages tailored for Des Moines. Our platform features:

• Auto-generated listing pages
• Email and landing page tools
• Seamless integration with brokers and developers
• Exclusive listings and premium exposure

Brevitas is your gateway to unlocking the full potential of Des Moines's commercial real estate market, providing the tools and insights you need to succeed.