How Local Builders Think Differently Than National Builders

When shopping for a new construction home in the Des Moines metro, buyers often compare local builders to large national companies. While both can offer a brand-new home, the experience and the end result can be very different.

At Jerry’s Homes, we’ve been building in Central Iowa since 1957, and one thing hasn’t changed: local knowledge matters.

Built for Life in Central Iowa

National builders design homes to work across many markets. Local builders design homes to work here.

In Des Moines, that means:

• Floor plans designed for real Midwest winters
• Practical mudrooms, storage, and drop zones
• Energy-efficient construction suited for Iowa’s temperature swings
• Outdoor spaces that fit how homeowners actually live and entertain

Local builders understand how Iowans use their homes because we live here too.

Intentional Design Over Chasing Trends

National builders often need to adopt trends quickly across multiple regions. Local builders can be more selective. We have in house designers and drafters than continuously make improvements and customizations along the way.

At Jerry’s Homes, we focus on features that:

• Hold up over time
• Add everyday comfort and livability
• Make sense for resale value
• Fit realistically within a $300,000–$600,000 home budget

Not every trend is worth the investment, and our experience helps guide those decisions.

Hands-On Oversight and Accountability

With a local builder, decisions aren’t made from an out-of-state office. We are right here with our home base in West Des Moines, and just a short drive to any of our many job sites.

Our teams work closely with trusted local trade partners and oversee construction directly, which allows for:

• Better quality control
• Faster communication
• Greater accountability throughout the build process

When your reputation has been built over decades in the same community, quality isn’t optional.

Guided Flexibility for Buyers

Local builders often offer more flexibility, without overwhelming buyers with endless choices. Our in-house Design Center takes the best trending options from local showrooms, and condenses them all into one space. Now you can easily find the option that suits you.

We believe in:

• Thoughtfully curated selections
• Smart plan options that personalize a home
• Guidance that helps buyers stay on budget

The goal is a home that feels personal, not complicated.

A Long-Term Commitment to Des Moines

Local builders don’t just build homes, we build communities. We take each street and lay out all of our different plans and selections right from the start so you won't end up living in a row of identical cookie cutter homes.

Because Jerry’s Homes has been part of the Des Moines area for generations, we care deeply about:

• Neighborhood quality
• Long-term home values
• Ongoing homeowner relationships

We’re not building for a single transaction, we’re building for the future of the communities we call home. More people will fall asleep in a Jerry's Home tonight than any other builder out there right now in Des Moines.

Why the Local Difference Matters

Choosing a new construction home is about more than finishes and square footage. It’s about who is making the decisions behind the scenes. We really are passionate about what we do and who we are. Our whole team takes pride in our product and it shows. 

For many Des Moines buyers, the difference with a local builder becomes clear not just on move-in day, but for years to come.