Des Moines Homes with Unfinished Basement

Des Moines Homes with Unfinished Basement

Welcome to Des Moines, Iowa—an inviting city that beautifully blends urban sophistication with Midwestern charm. As the state capital and the largest city in Iowa, Des Moines is known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and a booming economy. The city is a hub for arts and entertainment, boasting an array of museums, theaters, and festivals that celebrate everything from local crafts to international cuisine. With its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, Des Moines is the perfect place to call home.

Within the heart of Polk County, Des Moines offers a variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle. One of the most appealing features of many homes in this area is the presence of unfinished basements. These versatile spaces provide homeowners with endless possibilities—whether you envision a cozy family room, a home gym, or a creative studio, the choice is yours! An unfinished basement allows for customization, giving you the freedom to design the space according to your needs and preferences.

In addition to the potential for expansion, homes with unfinished basements often come at a more attractive price point, allowing you to invest in your dream home while still having the flexibility to make it uniquely yours. Des Moines is not only a city rich in opportunity but also a place where you can truly make a house a home. Explore the possibilities today and discover the charm of living in Des Moines, where your dream home awaits!

Newest Des Moines Homes with Unfinished Basement

$395,000
9 Beds ⋅ 8 Baths ⋅ 745994 MLS
Brick 7-plex where all 7 units have recently completed a full renovation. The neighborhood draws consistent demand from workers at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, nearby manufacturing and logistics employment, and eastside workforce households. The property is within walking distance of Willard Elementary School and has easy access to US-65 and I-235. Property does have deferred capital needs including an electrical upgrade and HVAC replacement and these items are factored into the listing price.

2447 E Walnut Street, Des Moines
$119,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745852 MLS
Investors or first time home buyer - here is a well priced home that has a good start on updates. Nice 2 bedroom 1 bathroom bungalow. Good layout. New LVT flooring, new paint, updated kitchen. Plenty of yard. House has current rental certificate. Ready for rent or move-in.

2909 1st Street, Des Moines
$109,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745148 MLS
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 based paint potentially exists. Seller is The Secretary of Veterans Affairs. This property may qualify for seller financing (Vendee). Call for your personal showing!

3215 SW 7th Street, Des Moines
$849,900
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 745947 MLS
Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in Des Moines' coveted Southern Hills neighborhood, this elegant brick home offers exceptional space (4,100+ sq ft), privacy and convenience just min from downtown, the airport and the west side. Situated on a .675-acre lot, the home combines timeless architecture with thoughtful updates. The heart of the home is the stunning remodeled kitchen featuring abundant custom cabinetry, granite countertops, a large center island, walk-in pantry and generous dining area perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Multiple gathering spaces -including a gracious living room, warm wood-paneled study with fireplace, sunroom overlooking the backyard, and formal dining and living rooms -provide space for every occasion. The spacious primary suite offers a true retreat with built-in cabinetry, plantation shutters, dual walk-in closets, and spa-like bath. Three additional bedrooms upstairs provide generous space for family and guests. This is a rare opportunity to own a gem in one of Des Moines' most established and desirable locations. All information obtained from seller and public records.

2900 Cayuga Point, Des Moines
$159,900
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 745914 MLS
Welcome home to this charming 1.5-story nestled in the heart of Des Moines! Perfectly located near the Downtown Farmers' Market, Principal Park, the Science Center of Iowa, and multiple city parks, this home puts some of the city's best attractions right at your doorstep. Inside, you'll be sure to love the warm and inviting layout featuring a separate living room and formal dining room—ideal for everyday living or entertaining. The large kitchen features ample cabinetry and all appliances included with a charming enclosed porch just off the side! The main floor offers a comfortable bedroom and full bathroom with first floor laundry. Upstairs you'll find two additional bedrooms and a second full bathroom, providing flexibility for your needs, guests, or a home office. You'll appreciate the abundance of storage throughout the home, along with a spacious, fenced backyard that's perfect for pets, gardening, or relaxing outdoors. A detached one-car garage adds convenience and additional storage space as well! New roof and gutters in 2019, new ridge vent in 2023, and new furnace in 2019 for peace of mind! Whether you're looking for your first home or want to enjoy all that downtown Des Moines has to offer, this charming property is one you won't want to miss! Easy access to I-235 and Hwy 69 to get you anywhere in the metro! Come see today!

128 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines
$285,000
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 745868 MLS
Opportunity knocks with this cash-flowing investment property featuring an up/down duplex and a detached efficiency unit, providing three separate income-producing units on one lot. The property offers a spacious 4-bedroom, 1-bath unit, a 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit, and a detached efficiency unit, all conveniently located near the Iowa State Fairgrounds with easy access to downtown Des Moines. It has a proven rental history and generates cash flow. Major improvements have been completed throughout the property in recent years. In 2024, the west basement wall was professionally sealed and insulated. Updates completed in 2025 include new flooring in Unit 2, a remodeled bathroom with a vent fan in Unit 1, and a refreshed efficiency unit featuring new flooring, a new shower, fresh paint, kitchen improvements, and updated appliances. The sewer line was also repaired from the house to the city main in 2025 and includes a transferable warranty. In 2026, additional improvements included new kitchen ceiling tiles in Unit 1, along with a new roof and water heater for the efficiency unit, helping provide added peace of mind for the next owner. With many major capital improvements already completed, this property offers a strong combination of immediate cash flow and long-term value. Whether you're looking to expand your portfolio or add a high-performing investment to your holdings, this is an opportunity worth a closer look.

2712 Dean Avenue, Des Moines
$350,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 745866 MLS
Tucked into Des Moines’ sought-after Southwestern Hills neighborhood, 2310 Stanton Ave blends timeless character, thoughtful design and room to grow. This 1,908-square-foot, two-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a nearly half-acre lot. The kitchen, designed by Molly Spain, features distinctive concrete countertops, abundant cabinetry, a brand-new dishwasher and an impressive butcher-block island with seating—the perfect gathering place for coffee, meals and conversation. Two main-floor living spaces and a dedicated dining area offer flexibility for entertaining, relaxing or working from home. A 3-season sunroom and deck extend the living space, while a 2-car detached garage and ample off-street parking add everyday convenience. The functional unfinished basement includes a bathroom, storage, usable space and future finishing potential. Major 2022 improvements to both the house and garage include new roofs, gutters with gutter covers, fascia and soffits. Additional updates include new vinyl siding on the sunroom and garage, along with redone exterior flashing. With easy access to shopping, dining, recreation and destinations throughout the Des Moines metro, this distinctive home is ready for its next chapter.

2310 Stanton Avenue, Des Moines
$164,500
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745935 MLS
Affordable, move-in ready, and full of charm! Welcome to 2208 Tichenor Street, Des Moines, where classic character meets practical updates. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate the beautiful hardwood floors, fresh interior paint, and the bright, inviting living room that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The functional layout features 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, and a comfortable kitchen with everything you need to feel right at home. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, downsizing, or looking for a great investment property or rental opportunity, this home checks all the boxes. Outside, you'll love the large backyard with plenty of room for pets, gardening, entertaining, or future outdoor projects. The oversized detached one-car garage provides extra space for storage, hobbies, tools, or a workshop—something buyers are always searching for. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, parks, schools, and with easy access to downtown Des Moines and major highways, this home offers affordability, comfort, and convenience in one package. If you've been searching for an updated starter home, hardwood floors, large yard, oversized garage, and a move-in ready Des Moines home, this is one you won't want to miss. Schedule your showing today!

2208 Tichenor Street, Des Moines
$259,990
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 745902 MLS
Step into a Waveland home where time has stood still in all the best ways. Built in 1920 and meticulously kept, this 1.5-story Craftsman preserves the character buyers hope to find but rarely do. A classic swinging parlor door connects the kitchen to the formal dining room, where a beautiful built-in buffet remains a centerpiece. Hardwood floors, generous gathering spaces, and previously updated bathrooms balance vintage charm with everyday comfort. The main floor offers two bedrooms and a full bath. Upstairs, the finished attic creates an apartment-style efficiency with one bedroom, a small kitchen, and a full bath, bringing the home to three bedrooms and two baths. Evidence suggests the main and upper floors may once have been connected internally; however, that access is not guaranteed and buyers should independently verify. Outside, the expansive 15,332-square-foot lot offers uncommon breathing room in the city, complemented by a two-car detached garage. With 1,827 square feet, central air, an unfinished basement, and a location in the sought-after Waveland neighborhood, this is more than a house—it is a beautifully preserved piece of Des Moines history ready for its next chapter.

1504 48th Street, Des Moines
$170,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745662 MLS
Welcome home to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence that’s full of character and has been exceptionally well cared for over the years. From the moment you step inside, you’ll appreciate how clean and well-maintained the home is, offering a move-in-ready feel while still preserving its timeless charm. The detached garage, built in 2008, provides excellent space for parking, storage, or a workshop. Downstairs, you’ll find an impressively clean basement with endless potential—whether you’re looking for additional storage, a hobby space, or envisioning future finished living space. Conveniently located next to a church and just 3½ blocks from the Iowa State Fairgrounds, this home offers easy access to one of Des Moines’ most iconic destinations while being nestled in an established neighborhood. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, downsizing, or searching for a great investment opportunity, this well-kept home is one you won’t want to miss!

2608 Capitol Avenue, Des Moines
$145,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745757 MLS
Welcome to this charming home in Des Moines’ historic Highland Park neighborhood, where classic character meets thoughtful updates. Inside, you’ll find a bright, refreshed interior featuring neutral paint, updated flooring, and an updated kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances. Previous improvements include a newer roof and gutters, offering added peace of mind. The spacious backyard provides alley access, off-street parking, and plenty of room to enjoy outdoor activities. Enjoy being just minutes from local favorites like Highland Park Bakery, Chuck’s Restaurant, neighborhood shops, parks, and downtown Des Moines. Whether you’re searching for your first home, looking to downsize, or adding to your investment portfolio, this home offers comfort, convenience, and a fantastic location.

3910 4th Street, Des Moines
$150,000
3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 745874 MLS
Welcome to 2420 E 37th Ct! This charming 3-bedroom home offers 2 bedrooms on the main level plus a finished attic that provides a spacious third bedroom or flexible living space. The walk-out basement offers excellent storage and potential for future finishing or additional living space. Whether you're looking for an affordable move-in-ready home to make your own over time or an investment opportunity with room to add value, this property has plenty of potential. Conveniently located with easy access to shopping, dining, parks, and major roadways, this home is ready for its next owner.

2420 E 37th Court, Des Moines
Start Your Search