$194,384Average Value$189Average Price per Sq Ft13Homes For Sale
Colorful murals throughout the community
Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Watrous Heights is a thriving neighborhood that balances urban living and suburban tranquility. Just 6 miles from downtown, the neighborhood offers easy access to shopping, dining and parks, plus it's within walking distance of many schools." It is an all-around good middle-class neighborhood," says Jarod Snover, a local agent at Iowa Realty Mills Crossing who has been servicing the greater Des Moines area with 5 years of experience. Not all of the narrow streets are tree-lined but most have sidewalks for dog walks and evening strolls. Colorful murals brighten streets, like the one at the corner of Rose Avenue and SW 9th Street. It's important to note that residents experience noise from Des Moines International Airport, which is only 2 miles away.
Watrous Heights sits minutes south of downtown Des Moines, with small-town charm.
The Downtown Farmers Market is a short hop from Watrous Heights for fresh finds.
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Neighborhood comprises bungalows and ranch-style homes
While many Watrous Heights homes are midcentury bungalow and ranch-style, some older homes are also sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. Home prices are consistent, from $142,000 to $286,000. Lots are typically one-eighth acre or less, suitable for a small garden, and most houses have garages. "Homes do sell quickly here," says Jill Roghair, a Realtor with LPT Realty, LLC and West Des Moines resident for over 20 years. "It's because of the low price point and proximity to amenities."
Ranch homes in Watrous Heights sit close together, offering wide driveways for easy parking.
Modest Watrous Heights bungalows often come with larger lawns for play and gardens.
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Bus route along SW 9th Street
Downtown is a 3-mile drive, and U.S. Route 69 runs parallel to the neighborhood. Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) bus stops can be found along SW 9th Street. Iowa Methodist Medical Center is nearby in case of emergencies.
Locals can pick up a Coney
Hy-Vee is nearby for groceries and essentials. From May to October, residents can drive 3 miles to the Downtown Farmers Market, which sells fresh produce, flowers and other local goods. Several eateries are located just outside the neighborhood. Sam's Fine Foods & Egg Rolls is a family-owned restaurant serving favorites like fried rice and Lo mein. Jim's Coney Island has been serving "Coney" hot dogs, burgers and chili since 1971. Francie's Bar & Grill` is a local watering hole serving classic pub grub and drinks. This sports bar offers a "nostalgic feel with great aesthetics," according to Snover. For special occasions, residents can drive 2 miles to Skip's, a high-end restaurant that's run out of a remodeled home and serves gourmet American cuisine. Fleur Cinema & Cafe is a quaint movie theater for art, independent and current films. It also hosts a cafe serving beer and house-made snacks.
Hy-Vee near Watrous Heights makes stocking up on everyday essentials simple.
Sam's Fine Foods & Egg Rolls is a family-owned Watrous Heights institution.
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Parks provide picnic areas and places for boating
Families can drive 2 miles to Sayers Park, which is west of the neighborhood and has an accessible playground, basketball and tennis courts, a wading pool, picnic tables and restrooms. Grays Lake Park, located along the Raccoon River, is a scenic space with expansive lawns, a playground, boat and bike rentals, and trails that wind along the water's edge.
Sayers Park brings a playground, walking trails, and picnic space minutes from Watrous Heights.
Gray's Lake Park, near Watrous Heights, offers picnic tables and riverside views for visitors.
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High school offers a strong athletic program
Des Moines Independent Community School District serves Watrous Heights and permits enrolled students to change schools. Young people can start their education at Park Avenue Elementary School and move on to Brody Middle School, both of which receive a C-minus rating from Niche. One of the largest high schools in Iowa, the C-rated Lincoln High School has a robust athletics department with a variety of sports to choose from.
Lincoln High School offers robust academics and athletics for Watrous Heights teens.
Brody Middle School supports Watrous Heights students with clubs and enrichment.
Park Avenue Elementary serves Watrous Heights with a well-rounded, community feel.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Watrous Heights
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Watrous Heights Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Watrous Heights, Des Moines sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Watrous Heights, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $185,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this ranch home featuring high ceilings in the living room and kitchen, creating a spacious feel. The 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout enhances utility and coziness. Fresh interior paint offers a clean, move-in ready appearance. The kitchen has modern appliances and connects to the living space. Main floor laundry and a mudroom near the entry enhance daily convenience. The large front deck
Looking for an opportunity to build equity and make a home your own? This well-positioned property on McKinley offers great potential and is set back from the road for added privacy. Updates: HVAC and water heater all replaced in 2021. The property features a detached 1-car garage and a screened-in porch, creating a comfortable space to relax and enjoy the backyard. Thoughtfully laid out and
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home on the south side of Des Moines, conveniently located near the airport with easy access to shopping, dining, and major roads. This property offers a great opportunity for homeowners or investors alike. The main level provides comfortable living space, while the finished basement features a second kitchen, living area, and a non-conforming bedroom. Perfect for
What an opportunity to own this ranch home located on a quiet street convenient to amenities. Covered rocking chair front porch. The home has a rear deck that overlooks the fenced backyard. It has a detached 1 car garage. Property is being sold As-Is. Inspections are for buyers knowledge only. Buyer will be responsible for all abstracting costs. This property was built prior to 1978 and lead
Quiet established neighborhood on a corner lot awaits you. Cute porch greets you. 1200sf, 3BR 2BA ranch, formal DR, LR, hardwood floors, carpet, tile kitchen, tile bathroom, with 1 car attached garage. Built in 1960, mid-century modern has newer roof, furnace, air. With an additional 800 sf great room finished down. It includes a wet bar, an eating area, a fireplace, new LVP flooring, and a 2nd
This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers quiet, one-level living on a corner lot. The home features 960 sq. ft. on a slab foundation, providing easy, step-free access throughout. Interior updates include new LVP flooring, fresh paint, updated electrical, and multiple new light fixtures. The living room includes a new electric fireplace insert that adds warmth and comfort. The kitchen
Perfect for a first-time homebuyer! Inside, this single-story bungalow offers an efficient, comfortable layout featuring convenient first-floor laundry. The home was completely updated in 2020 with a remodeled kitchen and bathroom, modern sheetrock, and LED lighting throughout. Newer furnace, central air conditioner, vinyl replacement windows, fiberglass insulated entry doors, and a metal roof.
Completely renovated and move-in ready! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers stylish updates throughout, including a new kitchen with granite countertops, new cabinetry, and brand-new appliances. Additional improvements include an updated electrical panel, main-level laundry, and a new deck overlooking a spacious yard, ideal for outdoor enjoyment. Conveniently located with easy access to the
Welcome to this classic, all-brick ranch home that balances durability, space, and convenience. Upon entry, you are greeted by a spacious living and dining area that flows seamlessly into a fully equipped kitchen—perfect for both daily living and entertaining. The main level boasts 3 comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a convenient half-bath. The unfinished basement offers abundant storage
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled Southside ranch featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms! This move-in-ready home offers beautiful flooring, a newer roof, durable Hardie-style siding, updated gutters and driveway, fresh paint, and stainless steel appliances. The open-concept floor plan creates a bright and inviting atmosphere, with the living room flowing seamlessly into the kitchen—perfect for
Here’s an opportunity to bring new life to an affordable Southside Des Moines bungalow situated on 0.4 acres and priced at just $150,000. With approximately 1,112 sq. ft., this home offers 2 large bedrooms with spacious closets, 1.5 baths, main-floor laundry, and a 2-car garage. Located just minutes from downtown and shopping & grocery stores. this property is being sold as-is and needs some TLC.
Madden Construction is proud to present the "Hayes" ranch plan, built by a local builder who takes pride in every home they create. 5-year TAX ABATEMENT! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an open concept layout with vaulted ceilings in the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The spacious kitchen features a walk-in pantry, island with breakfast bar, Samsung stainless steel appliances (including an
Your new home is fully renovated. 3 finished full bathrooms. Basement renovated and finished as well with its own shower, bathroom and living room area. All appliances already installed and in working order. Large storage area in the backyard with electricity. Fairly close to downtown. Nice quiet neighborhood. 5 minute drive to grocery stores.Renter pays for utilities, and completes home
Nice 4 bedroom 1 1/2 bath home with attached garage and car port. Hardwood floors in living room. 2 bedrooms on main floor and 2 bedrooms with half bathroom in finished attic. Full unfinished basement with washer and dryer hook ups and storage. MidAmerican Budget Billing $195/MonthCar PortGarageStove
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