Housing in the des moines/ames area?

Question

were moving to des moines ia soon but also may think about ames, however its easy online to find apartments, but not so easy finding houses, does anyone have any ideas?

Answer 1

Most houses in Ames are rented to college kids and aren't the most desirable houses.  The whole city of Ames seems to be geared towards the college kids anyway.  (Not that it's not a nice city, I went to ISU as an adult.)  If your job(s) are in DM, Ankeny is the hot-spot for commuters for affordable houses and commuting.  Avoid the east and south sides of DM.  The NW and west sides of DM have good housing opportunities.  I've had friends who have rented houses in the NW and south of Grand area.  



Go to www.dmregister.com and check out the classifieds for rental houses.  You'll also get an idea for the realtors/prop. mgmt. companies who handle rental houses.  And if you want, email me with any of the names of the agencies.  Hunziker is a fairly reputable name.

Answer 2

you should look at the southside of des moines. especially the easter lake area because there is a ton of new houses being built and it's the fastest growing part of the city. the southwest side is pretty pricey especially the houses west of fleur. avoid the east and northsides... trust me