Des Moines Homes under $500,000

Des Moines Homes under $500,000

Welcome to Des Moines, Iowa, a vibrant city that beautifully blends rich history with modern living. Nestled in Polk County, Des Moines is the state capital and a bustling hub for culture, commerce, and community. Known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse neighborhoods, this city offers something for everyone, making it an ideal place to call home.

Des Moines boasts a thriving arts scene, highlighted by the renowned Des Moines Art Center and the lively events at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, the city is dotted with beautiful parks, trails, and recreational areas, including the scenic Gray's Lake Park and the expansive Water Works Park, perfect for leisurely strolls or afternoon picnics.

When it comes to real estate, Des Moines is an exceptional place for homebuyers seeking value. With a variety of homes available under $500,000, you can find charming single-family residences, modern townhouses, and cozy bungalows that fit your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, the market here offers an impressive selection of properties, many with attractive features such as spacious yards, updated kitchens, and proximity to local amenities.

As you explore the neighborhoods of Des Moines, you’ll discover a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a vibrant local economy. With its affordable housing options and welcoming spirit, Des Moines is not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Come experience the charm and opportunity that this wonderful city has to offer!

Newest Des Moines Homes under $500,000

2904 Maple Street, Des Moines
$149,900
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750506 MLS
Cute, charming, and full of potential! This 2-bedroom bungalow on Des Moines’ east side is a great opportunity for a first-time buyer, young family, or anyone looking for a home they can truly make their own. You’ll love the convenient location just minutes from downtown Des Moines and close to the Iowa State Fairgrounds, giving you easy access to restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and all the fun the city has to offer. Inside, the home has a cozy feel, classic bungalow character, and plenty of opportunity to add your own style and updates over time. Outside, the spacious detached 2-car garage is a huge bonus—perfect for vehicles, extra storage, hobbies, or a workshop. With charm, a great location, and room to build equity, this home has all the ingredients to become something special. Come take a look and imagine the possibilities!

2904 Maple Street, Des Moines
2023 37th Street, Des Moines
$230,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 750266 MLS
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath bungalow in the heart of Beaverdale with 1,200+ SF of finished living space! Step inside through the inviting three-season porch and into the main level filled with character, including beautiful crown molding throughout. The kitchen has been refreshed with brand-new quartz countertops, freshly painted cabinets, and fresh paint. Downstairs, the finished basement offers even more living space, a cozy gas fireplace, kitchenette, and additional bathroom/laundry room. The home is equipped with an existing radon mitigation system. Outside, enjoy the privacy of the fenced backyard with a large deck, patio areas, and fire pit — perfect for relaxing and entertaining. All of this in a fantastic Beaverdale location close to local shops, restaurants, parks, and everything this popular neighborhood has to offer!

2023 37th Street, Des Moines
1708 26th Street, Des Moines
$194,900
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750435 MLS
Updated from top to bottom and ready for its next owner! This completely renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers a turnkey opportunity in the highly sought-after Drake area—ideal as a primary residence, student housing option, or investment property. Inside, nearly every surface has been refreshed, including brand-new tile flooring throughout, new trim, updated lighting, and a beautifully renovated bathroom. The new kitchen features fresh cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and finishes, while the spacious living room provides plenty of room to relax or entertain. Step outside to the covered patio overlooking a tree-lined backyard—a great space to unwind or give guests an inviting outdoor retreat. Conveniently located near Drake University, shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and major Des Moines amenities. Currently operating as an active Airbnb with significant earnings, this property offers the flexibility to move right in or continue its use as an investment. Turnkey, updated, and ready to go. Home is being sold as-is.

1708 26th Street, Des Moines
6219 Boston Avenue, Des Moines
$245,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 750366 MLS
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch tucked into a quiet NW Des Moines neighborhood filled with mature trees and character. From the inviting curb appeal to the original hardwood floors and charming built-ins, this home offers plenty to love. The main level features a spacious living room, three bedrooms, a full bath, and a beautifully Remodeled kitchen with abundant solid surface counter space, generous cabinet storage, and two convenient Lazy Susans. Downstairs, the partially finished lower level adds even more room to spread out with a large family room, second bathroom, and a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office, playroom, workout or wellness space. There’s also plenty of storage for everything you need to tuck away. Outside, enjoy a large backyard with room to play, garden, entertain, or simply relax, plus the convenience of a garage. Major updates include a furnace in 2018, AC in 2019, and new roof and gutters in 2025, with a home warranty already in place for the remainder of the year. Located near walking trails with easy access to shopping, dining, schools, interstate access, and all the everyday conveniences of NW Des Moines and Urbandale. A cozy, character-filled home with thoughtful updates, flexible living space, and a location that makes getting around the metro easy.

6219 Boston Avenue, Des Moines
4521 Aurora Avenue, Des Moines
$390,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 750494 MLS
Johnston School District with the bus stop right outside on the corner and a POOL! Discover your own personal retreat in this beautifully updated 4BD/3BA home, surrounded by mature trees, lush landscaping and an updated 8ft depth Gunite concrete pool with diving board. Step inside to find warm hardwood floors, solid core doors, an updated kitchen with Jenn Air SS appliances(including a massive refrigerator and downdraft cooktop), SS sink, backsplash, along with cabinets and countertops that are in pristine condition. Notice the Teak hardwood floors even as you walk up the stairs and into the upper level hallway and 4 bedrooms. The spacious primary bedroom overlooks the backyard/pool and has an ensuite and oversized walk-in closet. The dry basement provides plenty of finished space ready for movie nights, workouts, or hobbies, and an abundance of storage to keep everything organized. In the backyard, escape to your private oasis featuring the pool, large deck, gazebo, fountain and plenty of shade on those hot summer days! Need more storage space for tools or toys? You got it with two(2) exterior sheds. Major updates include a Grand Sequoia class 4 roof(2019), new pool pump(2023), new pool filter(2026), concrete leveling around pool(2026), new tile at the water line(2026), updated exterior electrical(2026).

4521 Aurora Avenue, Des Moines
2436 E 50th Court, Des Moines
$472,500
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 750489 MLS
Welcome to the Palazzo CD by Destiny Homes, located Destiny Homes presents the Brentwood in Des Moines? Ruby Rose Ridge. This beautiful two-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,200 square feet. The main level features durable LVP flooring throughout the spacious great room, plus a versatile front office, den, or playroom with a cozy electric fireplace. The kitchen is equipped with quartz countertops, a large center island, electric range with hood vent, pantry, and ample cabinet space. The adjacent dining area opens to a covered deck overlooking the backyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious primary suite featuring a tile shower, brushed nickel plumbing fixtures, dual vanities, and a large walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a convenient laundry room with utility sink complete the second level. All information obtained from seller an dpublic record.

2436 E 50th Court, Des Moines
2916 Capitol Avenue, Des Moines
$155,000
4 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750483 MLS
Great opportunity for a first-time homebuyer or investor! This well-maintained, move-in-ready home features a spacious eat-in kitchen, convenient first-floor laundry, an enclosed porch, and alley access. Investors have two potential income opportunities with monthly rental income plus State Fair parking revenue. Located just moments from the Iowa State Fair entrance and within walking distance of schools, this property offers a unique opportunity in a convenient Des Moines location.

2916 Capitol Avenue, Des Moines
2004 E 33rd Street, Des Moines
$212,000
3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750481 MLS
Welcome home to this newly remodeled 3-bedroom, 1-bath gem featuring a bright open floor plan and stylish updates throughout. Enjoy brand-new flooring, fresh paint, a completely updated bathroom, and a new furnace for peace of mind. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances and ample cupboard space, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The large unfinished basement provides great storage or future expansion potential. Outside, you?ll find a fully fenced backyard with a concrete patio — ideal for relaxing or hosting summer get-togethers - plus a detached one-car garage. Move-in ready and waiting for you! Listing agent has ownership interest in home.

2004 E 33rd Street, Des Moines
2331 E 11th Street, Des Moines
$164,999
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750298 MLS
UPDATED BUNGALOW NEAR GRAND VIEW UNIVERSITY & UNION PARK! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home is packed with recent updates and is ready for its next owner! Offering over 760 sq ft of living space, you’ll love the completely updated kitchen featuring newer appliances, refreshed finishes, and a bright, functional layout. The updated bathroom adds to the move-in-ready feel, while the basement has undergone extensive improvements, creating a great bonus space for a second hangout area, hobby space, home gym, or additional storage. Step outside to a backyard that’s ready for you to make it your own! The shared driveway provides access to the rear of the property, with enough space for a future 2-car detached garage. Location is another huge plus—just a short walk from Grand View University and Union Park, with convenient access to downtown Des Moines, shopping, dining, entertainment, and major commuter routes. Whether you’re looking for your first home, downsizing, or adding to your investment portfolio, this updated bungalow offers a fantastic combination of location, updates, and potential. Schedule your showing today and come see everything this home has to offer! 13 Mo HWA Platinum Home Warranty included!

2331 E 11th Street, Des Moines
1056 46th Street, Des Moines
$395,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 750475 MLS
Welcome to 1056 46th Street in Waveland Park! With over 2,000 square feet of finished living space, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bath areas and a 2-car garage. The main level features beautifully refinished original oak hardwoods, a spacious kitchen with island and custom cherry breakfast nook, two bedrooms and a full bath. Upstairs you'll find another bedroom, half bath and dedicated mini-split for heating and cooling. The finished lower level adds even more living space with a family room, fourth bedroom, ¾ bath and bonus room. Updates include a new roof and chimney flashing, gas fireplace insert, fresh interior paint, new carpet, updated lighting and fans, bathroom updates, window treatments and newer water heater. Outside, the partially fenced backyard and covered patio provide a great space to enjoy, with plenty of room inside and out in the heart of Waveland Park.

1056 46th Street, Des Moines
3121 Cornell Street, Des Moines
$162,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 750473 MLS
Brand new sewer line! This well-maintained 2-bedroom bungalow in the desirable Highland Park neighborhood offers plenty of charm and functionality, featuring two bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main level, plus additional office space. A welcoming front porch and cozy fireplace add character to the home, while the spacious corner lot, fenced yard, and attractive curb appeal provide great outdoor appeal. Recent updates include newer flooring and interior paint. The detached 2-car garage offers ample space for parking and extra storage. Conveniently located near bus lines, interstate access, schools, and other amenities, this home is a great opportunity in a sought-after neighborhood.

3121 Cornell Street, Des Moines
3513 E 43rd Street, Des Moines
$275,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 750446 MLS
Welcome home! This inviting two-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and plenty of space to enjoy everyday living. All three bedrooms are conveniently located on the second floor, providing a comfortable separation between living and sleeping spaces. Large windows fill the home with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The main level features a cozy gas fireplace, while the deck provides a great spot to relax or entertain outdoors with the added privacy of fencing. The partially finished basement offers flexible space for a recreation room, home office, hobby area, or additional storage. A convenient 2-car attached garage adds everyday functionality. Numerous recent updates provide peace of mind, including a new furnace in 2025, a new sump pump, a new insulated garage door, and a new rear sliding door. The deck was redone in 2025, and the roof was replaced within the last five years. With a comfortable layout, abundant natural light, and thoughtful updates throughout, this home is ready to welcome its next owners!

3513 E 43rd Street, Des Moines
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