$87,604Average Value$103Average Price per Sq Ft3Homes For Sale
More to come north of downtown Waterloo
Gates Park offers affordability, convenience and the promise of more to come less than 2 miles from downtown Waterloo. “It’s a growing area with a lot of potential,” says Ken Draine, a Realtor with Skogman Realty who has sold in the neighborhood. “By Allen Hospital they put in 20 units of apartments that just got done this year, you’ve got some gyms up there, a new Taco Bell. There’s a new park where they took the swimming pool out and put a whole new park in. They’re not done with it yet, but it’s coming along.” Neighbors here live side-by-side in modest-sized homes, where lawns are adorned with evidence of children’s play. The neighborhood is a quick drive to the area’s major manufacturers, and downtown’s evolving restaurant and entertainment scene is easily accessible.
Convenient commuting to John Deere and other employers
U.S. Route 63 runs along the neighborhood, connecting residents to destinations across the Cedar Valley. “What I tell people is you’re in the center of the job hub; In 2 minutes you can be on your way to work to a lot of different manufacturers,” Draine says. John Deere, a leading Waterloo employer, is 2.5 miles away, and downtown Waterloo is a 1.5-mile drive. Gates Park sits adjacent to Allen Hospital, which Draine says is an asset. Opened in 1925, the facility has an emergency room, as well as a counseling center and several specialty departments. Though most people here drive, the neighborhood has a handful of bus stops on lines 3 and 4.
Gates Park is a quaint neighborhood in Waterloo, Iowa.
Downtown Waterloo runs along Cedar River and is a scenic area for residents of Gates Park.
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Renovations underway at Gates Park's namesake
As of summer 2024, renovations are underway at Gates Park, transforming the park’s neglected pool into a splash pad and playground, and adding an amphitheater, skating rink and soccer fields. In the meantime, neighborhood kids can use the playground and basketball courts at Virden Creek Park, or head to Sullivan Memorial Park’s baseball field and shaded green space. Gates Park Golf Course and Red Carpet Golf Course are also within reach, offering day rates and season passes to play their 18-hole courses.
Gates Park is located in Waterloo, IA.
Gates Park Golf Course is a wonderful and well maintained 18 hole course.
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Modest-sized homes under the Waterloo median
Single-family homes typically range between $45,000 and $120,000, below the Waterloo median price. Prices reflect the size and age of the neighborhood’s homes, as there are many two-bedroom bungalows and minimal traditional builds from the 1940s and 1950s. Gates Park’s relative affordability attracts investors and first-time buyers who don’t mind putting in a bit of work to update a house. Homes here are tightly arranged on grassy plots, which neighbors populate with gardens and kids’ bikes and other toys.
Cottages are a common home style in Gates Park.
Homeowners in Gates Park take pride in their well-kept front yards and landscaping.
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Chains and local dining along Logan Avenue
The neighborhood has some businesses along Logan Avenue, including a new Taco Bell and East China, a casual stop with weekday lunch specials and boba teas. Other local options include D & K Hickory House, a longtime establishment boasting the best ribs in town, and Flip’s, best known for their catfish and coleslaw. Downtown’s growing restaurant scene is less than 2 miles away, where favorites like Morg’s diner often have a line out the door. All-In Grocers is the closest place to stock up on fresh produce, opened in 2023 by local residents. The store has an attached community center offering after-school programs.
East China is an authentic Chinese restaurant in Gates Park.
Starbeck's Smokehouse is known for their brisket sandwiches in Gates Park.
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Celebrating Juneteenth at Sullivan Memorial Park
Waterloo’s annual Juneteenth celebration dates back nearly 30 years. In 2024, community members marched from Ferguson Field to Sullivan Memorial Park and watched a proclamation from Mayor Quentin Hart and enjoyed food vendors, live music and kids’ activities.
Buy local goods at Fiesta Latina, an annual event at the Big Guitar Park.
See a full live band at Down By The Riverside annual event in Waterloo.
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Career training for East High students
Kids here begin at Dr. Walter Cunningham School for Excellence, then head to George Washington Carver Academy, both rated a C-minus from Niche. Teens at C-plus-rated Waterloo East High can participate in the International Baccalaureate program, or take courses in nursing, education and other fields at the Waterloo Career Center, which has a partnership with the school.
East High School has 1,022 students in attendance.
George Washington Carver Academy is a highly rated public school in Waterloo, IA.
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Potential flood risk in southern Gates Park
Waterloo has a history of flooding, potentially affecting Gates Park homes that are closer to the Cedar River. The last major flood was in 2008, though the city has since invested $17 million in a stormwater flood pump station.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Gates Park, Waterloo sell after 48 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Gates Park, Waterloo over the last 12 months is $102,500, up 27% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Investor Alert !!! 2 bedroom 1 bath home with huge potential. New roof added in 2024. Looking for a rental this could be the one. Located in a neighborhood with lots amenities. Walking distance from the newly built Gates Park & Golf Course definitely don't over this 1.
Great opportunity for investors or owner-occupied. Present tenant has lease through July 31, 2026 at $900/month. This house offers a partially fenced in rear yard. Located in a well taken care of home in good neighborhood with walking distance to Carver Academy School.
Ron Garris, CRB,CRSAWRE - Commercial & Development
Spacious 4-Bedroom Home with Over 2,000 Sq Ft—Across from the Park! Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offering over 2,000 square feet of comfortable living space, perfectly located just steps from a scenic park. Inside, you'll find a spacious and flexible layout featuring a formal dining room—ideal for hosting family gatherings or dinner parties. The recently updated kitchen
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