
Des Moines, IA, boasts a rich architectural heritage, with stunning homes featuring American Craftsman, Victorian, and Colonial Revival styles. The Craftsman homes highlight rustic, hand-crafted elements like exposed beams and built-in furniture, while Victorian homes offer intricate woodwork and ornate detailing. Colonial Revival houses exude timeless charm with symmetrical facades and traditional brick exteriors. These historic homes often feature expansive layouts, high ceilings, and spacious front porches. Despite their classic designs, many of these homes offer modern updates, making them perfect for buyers seeking both history and comfort under $300k.
1. 1920 Classic American Craftsman House in Des Moines

This charming Craftsman-style home, built in 1920, is listed for $272,000 in Des Moines. Inside, there are 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms on 1319 sq ft of area. The house features a warm and inviting design with beautiful hardwood floors, built-ins, and a cozy fireplace, painted in soft neutral tones that complement its classic layout, and a spacious dormered area perfect for a bedroom or home office. The kitchen is modern with stainless steel appliances and newer countertops. The home also includes a remodeled bathroom, a non-conforming fourth bedroom, and a fenced backyard with mature trees, offering privacy and shade.
Where is Des Moines?

Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is located in the central region of the United States. It holds significant historical importance as a key political and economic hub, dating back to the early 19th century. The city’s architecture showcases a blend of historic homes and modern designs, with classic Victorian and Colonial Revival homes dotting the neighborhoods. Historically, Des Moines played a crucial role in agriculture, and today it is recognized for its growing real estate sector, offering a mix of affordable housing and upscale properties that cater to diverse demographics.
Aesthetic Living Space

The living room exudes a fresh, modern aesthetic with soft neutral walls and an inviting ambiance. The natural light flows in effortlessly through expansive windows, brightening up the entire space. The rich, beige carpeting adds warmth, complemented by subtle trim details around the windows. A minimalist ceiling light fixture ensures the room is well-lit without overpowering the natural light. This room is perfect for relaxing or hosting guests, and the open layout seamlessly connects with the rest of the home.
Practical Kitchen Serenity

The kitchen in this home offers a blend of practicality and modern design. Warm-toned oak cabinetry contrasts nicely with the sleek countertops, creating a well-balanced atmosphere. The layout is designed for efficiency, with plenty of storage space, and modern appliances for ease of use. The subtle, neutral tile flooring ties everything together, adding texture without clashing with the cabinetry. Large windows let in abundant natural light, enhancing the kitchen’s welcoming feel. Perfect for home chefs, this space is both functional and stylish.
Cozy Bedroom Retreat

This bedroom is a haven of peace, offering soft neutral walls and large windows that bathe the room in natural light. The plush carpeting enhances the comfort of the space, making it perfect for relaxation. The clean, modern ceiling fixture ensures bright lighting, while the well-maintained walls add to the serene atmosphere. Ample space for furniture provides flexibility in arrangement, creating a personal retreat. This room serves as the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle, with a minimalist design to keep the focus on comfort.
Charming Bathroom Design

This bathroom is both stylish and functional, offering clean white walls paired with a contemporary design. The light, neutral flooring creates a fresh and open feel. The modern fixtures, including a sleek sink and mirror, offer elegance while serving practical purposes. Framed artwork adds a touch of character to the space, bringing in a personal touch. The natural light from the window enhances the open feel, making the space feel larger and more inviting. This bathroom is a beautiful mix of style and comfort.
Spacious Exterior Living

The exterior of this home highlights the perfect blend of contemporary charm and functionality. The crisp white siding contrasts beautifully with the lush, well-maintained lawn. The driveway is spacious, leading to an oversized garage with ample storage space. A patio area provides a perfect outdoor setting for gatherings or quiet moments of relaxation. The backyard offers plenty of room for outdoor activities, making it ideal for family gatherings. The overall layout of the property provides a welcoming, well-kept environment, adding excellent curb appeal to the home.
Source: Property Owner via Zillow
2. 1910 Traditional Craftsman Style House in Des Moines

Built in 1910, this charming home is listed for $270,000. It offers a spacious 1,781 sqft layout with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The house features a traditional design, with elegant woodwork and a striking staircase that greets you upon entry. Its inviting living room, complete with a cozy wood fireplace, flows into a generous dining room and kitchen. The front porch provides a relaxing spot, while the upper level houses sizable bedrooms and an attic for potential expansion. The property includes a one-car garage and extra storage.
Where is Des Moines?

Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is located in the central region of the United States. It holds significant historical importance as a key political and economic hub, dating back to the early 19th century. The city’s architecture showcases a blend of historic homes and modern designs, with classic Victorian and Colonial Revival homes dotting the neighborhoods. Historically, Des Moines played a crucial role in agriculture, and today it is recognized for its growing real estate sector, offering a mix of affordable housing and upscale properties that cater to diverse demographics.
Bright Living Space

The living room offers a cozy, well-lit environment, featuring modern recessed ceiling lights and sleek, smooth walls. The light oak laminate flooring brings warmth, enhancing the contemporary feel of the room. Large windows flood the space with natural light, making it airy and inviting. This open layout provides ample space for comfortable seating arrangements, perfect for family gatherings or casual relaxation. The neutral tones of the walls and flooring create a versatile base, ready to accommodate various styles of décor and furniture.
Chic Dining Space

This dining room exudes modern elegance, with its fresh, light blue walls providing a calm ambiance that contrasts beautifully with the rich hardwood flooring. The ornate chandelier suspended from the ceiling offers both illumination and style, complementing the detailed trim around the windows. The expansive dining table, surrounded by plush chairs, is ideal for family meals or hosting guests. The open space, with abundant natural light from the windows, seamlessly flows into the adjoining areas, creating an inviting and functional space for dining and socializing.
Modern Kitchen Design

This kitchen showcases a perfect blend of style and functionality with high-end stainless steel appliances, including a fridge, stove, and dishwasher. The crisp white cabinetry is complemented by a subway tile backsplash, creating a clean, timeless look. The spacious countertops offer ample prep space, while the modern light fixtures ensure the area is well-lit. The oak laminate flooring seamlessly ties the space together, adding warmth and practicality. The kitchen’s design is efficient, making it ideal for both cooking and entertaining, with an inviting open flow to the adjoining areas.
Trendy Bedroom Vibe

This bedroom features a fresh, contemporary feel with soft grey walls and light wood laminate flooring. The room is bright, thanks to two well-placed windows that allow natural light to fill the space. The ceiling fan adds a touch of functionality while maintaining a modern aesthetic. The neutral tones throughout provide a calming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Ample closet space and the minimalist design make the room feel open and spacious, offering flexibility for different furniture arrangements and décor preferences.
Sleek Bathroom Style

The bathroom is designed with both functionality and modern aesthetics in mind. It features a white vanity with sleek hardware and a large mirror that enhances the space’s brightness. The tub-shower combo is complemented by a stylish blue and white tree-themed shower curtain, adding a fresh, natural touch. Clean, neutral tile flooring ties the room together, providing easy maintenance. With contemporary lighting and modern fixtures, this bathroom offers both comfort and style, making it a relaxing retreat for everyday use.
Source: EXP Realty, LLC via Zillow
3. 1902 Traditional Victorian Style House in Des Moines

Built in 1902, this beautifully maintained home is listed for $235,000. The two-story residence offers 1,710 sqft of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The home features a formal dining room, or second living room, and an eat-in kitchen, ideal for entertaining. Elegant LVP flooring flows throughout, and the unfinished basement offers potential for future expansion. A two-car detached garage provides additional storage, while the spacious 7,187 sqft lot includes a deck, patio, and partially fenced yard, perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Where is Des Moines?

Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is located in the central region of the United States. It holds significant historical importance as a key political and economic hub, dating back to the early 19th century. The city’s architecture showcases a blend of historic homes and modern designs, with classic Victorian and Colonial Revival homes dotting the neighborhoods. Historically, Des Moines played a crucial role in agriculture, and today it is recognized for its growing real estate sector, offering a mix of affordable housing and upscale properties that cater to diverse demographics.
Cozy Living Retreat

The living room offers a cozy and bright atmosphere, with beautiful hardwood flooring that enhances its warm and inviting appeal. The light neutral walls and subtle ceiling texture complement the natural light streaming in from large windows. The ceiling fan ensures comfort during warmer months, and the overall design is simple yet elegant, offering ample space for furniture arrangements. A perfect retreat for relaxation or entertainment, this room provides flexibility for various décor styles, with the natural light highlighting the charming details throughout.
Modern Kitchen Elegance

The kitchen showcases a sleek design, with beautiful dark cabinetry paired with striking granite countertops. The stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and dishwasher, provide both style and functionality. The flooring is a durable, neutral-toned tile that ties the entire space together. A large window above the sink allows for natural light, brightening up the entire kitchen. With ample counter and cabinet space, this kitchen is ideal for meal preparation and entertaining, offering both modern convenience and aesthetic appeal.
Tranquil Bedroom Space

This bedroom offers a serene retreat, featuring a soft color palette and hardwood floors that add warmth. The natural light pours in through two large windows, making the space feel bright and airy. A stylish ceiling fan adds to the room’s comfort, while the modern décor elements enhance its peaceful vibe. The well-chosen furniture and neutral walls allow for easy customization, whether it’s with bold accent colors or minimalist designs. The room provides ample space for a restful night’s sleep or relaxation.
Charming Bathroom Details

The bathroom is designed with modern elegance in mind, featuring clean, neutral tiles and sleek fixtures. The vanity with a large mirror creates a spacious feel, and the contemporary light fixture offers bright illumination. A stylish shower curtain adds a pop of color and charm to the otherwise clean and minimal design. The bathroom’s layout makes it both functional and attractive, with efficient storage and a serene atmosphere that feels spacious despite its size. The perfect balance of style and practicality for everyday use.
Spacious Backyard Oasis

The backyard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities or quiet relaxation. The expansive grassy area is perfect for gardening, playtime, or setting up an outdoor dining space. Surrounded by mature trees and shrubs, the space feels private and peaceful. The detached garage provides additional storage and convenience. This open, flat yard is ideal for family gatherings or creating your own outdoor oasis, offering a blank canvas for your personal landscaping ideas. The surrounding homes and greenery add to the overall tranquility of the area.
Source: Keller Williams Legacy Group via Zillow
4. 1920 Traditional Colonial Revival House in Des Moines

Built in 1920, this charming two-story home is listed for $280,000. Offering 1,984 sqft of living space, it features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The upper level includes 2 full bathrooms, with one being an ensuite, and a convenient second-floor laundry. The spacious kitchen is ready for a remodel, offering the potential to create a modern dream space. The front porch, with its original wood floors, complements the classic charm of the entry and dining rooms. A large 2-car detached garage with extra storage and workshop space completes the home.
Where is Des Moines?

Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is located in the central region of the United States. It holds significant historical importance as a key political and economic hub, dating back to the early 19th century. The city’s architecture showcases a blend of historic homes and modern designs, with classic Victorian and Colonial Revival homes dotting the neighborhoods. Historically, Des Moines played a crucial role in agriculture, and today it is recognized for its growing real estate sector, offering a mix of affordable housing and upscale properties that cater to diverse demographics.
Cozy Living Comfort

This living room offers a warm and inviting space with freshly refinished hardwood floors, making it the perfect spot to relax. The light gray walls create a calm atmosphere while the recessed ceiling lights provide ample brightness. The built-in shelves add functionality and a touch of style to the room, providing space for books or decor. The electric fireplace is a focal point, offering both warmth and a cozy ambiance. This space is ideal for entertaining or simply unwinding after a long day.
Elegant Dining Area

This beautifully designed dining area features smooth hardwood floors that complement the neutral beige walls. The soft glow from the vintage-inspired chandelier illuminates the space, creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. The dining table is placed perfectly for optimal flow, with modern grey chairs offering a sleek contrast. A subtle rug under the table adds texture and warmth, further enhancing the room’s cozy vibe. The open archway into the living room makes the space feel even more expansive, offering seamless transitions between the dining and living areas.
Modern Kitchen Appeal

The kitchen boasts a sleek, modern design with a mix of dark wood cabinetry and complementary granite countertops. The backsplash, featuring mosaic tiles, adds an elegant touch to the space. Stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, stove, and refrigerator, make the kitchen both practical and stylish. The tile flooring ensures easy maintenance, while the abundant counter space allows for plenty of prep room. Natural light floods the room, making it feel bright and spacious. Perfect for cooking and entertaining, this kitchen combines style and functionality.
Serene Bedroom Retreat

This serene bedroom features soft gray walls and polished hardwood floors, creating a peaceful environment. The room is bathed in natural light thanks to large windows that brighten the space. A ceiling fan offers comfort during warmer months, while the spacious layout allows for a king-size bed and additional furniture. The minimalist design gives the room a tranquil, uncluttered feel, making it a true retreat. The neutral tones of the room provide a versatile canvas, easily complementing any decor style you choose.
Charming Bathroom Design

The bathroom features clean, contemporary finishes with a large mirror, sleek vanity, and modern light fixtures. The neutral-colored walls and tile flooring create a fresh and airy feel. The glass-enclosed shower is lined with white subway tiles, offering a clean and timeless aesthetic. The minimalistic design, paired with ample storage space, ensures the room remains functional without compromising on style. A stylish towel rack and elegant accessories further enhance the bathroom’s appeal, making it both practical and visually pleasing.
Private Backyard Oasis

The backyard offers a perfect space for outdoor relaxation and entertainment. The lush green lawn provides a soft, inviting area for gatherings or simply enjoying the outdoors. The wooden privacy fence ensures seclusion, creating a tranquil environment. A spacious deck extends from the house, ideal for dining or lounging in the fresh air. The detached garage offers additional storage space, while the well-maintained yard provides plenty of potential for gardening or outdoor hobbies. This backyard is a private oasis perfect for both relaxation and recreation.
Source: RE/MAX Concepts via Zillow










