SRES® Certified Senior Specialist

Patio Homes Des Moines

Ready to simplify? Patio homes offer the perfect balance—your own space with none of the maintenance headaches. As an SRES® certified specialist, I help seniors find the right fit for this next chapter.

Single-Level Living
No Yard Work
Lock & Leave

What Exactly Is a Patio Home?

A patio home is a single-story, detached or semi-attached home designed for low-maintenance living. You get the privacy and feel of a single-family home without the burden of exterior maintenance, lawn care, or snow removal.

Perfect for active adults who want to travel, spend time with grandchildren, or simply enjoy life without spending weekends on yard work.

Single Level

No stairs to navigate—everything on one floor

Private Entrance

Your own front door and personal outdoor space

HOA Maintained

Lawn, snow, and exterior care handled for you

Community Setting

Neighbors nearby with shared amenities

Best Patio Home Communities

These Des Moines area communities offer excellent patio home options for active adults and seniors.

Waukee

Fastest Growing Suburb
$350K+
Starting Price
15+
Communities
  • New construction available
  • Excellent healthcare access
  • Walking trails & parks
  • Shopping & dining nearby

West Des Moines

Established & Convenient
$325K+
Starting Price
20+
Communities
  • Central location
  • Multiple hospital systems
  • Jordan Creek amenities
  • Established neighborhoods

Grimes

Growing & Affordable
$300K+
Starting Price
10+
Communities
  • More affordable options
  • New development
  • Easy highway access
  • Growing amenities

What Does the HOA Cover?

One of the biggest benefits of patio home living is what you don't have to worry about. Most associations handle all exterior maintenance so you can focus on enjoying life.

Typical Monthly HOA Fees
$150 - $400
Varies by community and services included

I help you understand exactly what's covered in each community so there are no surprises after you move in.

Lawn Care

Mowing, fertilizing, weed control

Snow Removal

Driveways and walkways cleared

Common Areas

Shared spaces maintained

Exterior Maint.

Roof, siding—varies by community

Irrigation

Some communities include

Clubhouse

Select communities offer

Single-Level Living

No stairs means no fall risk—the #1 cause of injury for seniors at home. Everything you need is on one accessible floor.

Zero-Entry Showers

Many newer patio homes feature barrier-free bathrooms with grab bars and non-slip surfaces already installed.

Wider Doorways

36" doorways accommodate wheelchairs and walkers if ever needed, built in from the start.

Low Maintenance

No more climbing ladders for gutters or struggling with snow shovels. The HOA handles it all.

Features That Let You Stay Home Longer

The right patio home isn't just comfortable now—it supports you as your needs change. I specifically look for features that make aging in place easier and safer.

My SRES® training means I know exactly what to evaluate for long-term livability, not just today's wish list.

#1
Cause of senior injury: stairs
90%
Want to age in their own home
Seniors Real Estate Specialist®

SRES® Certified for Senior Transitions

I earned my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® designation because I understand that buying or selling a home later in life is different. It's not just a transaction—it's a life transition.

  • Understand Your TimelineNo pressure, no rushing. We move at your pace.
  • Know the Right QuestionsI evaluate homes for long-term livability, not just curb appeal.
  • Coordinate the ProcessFrom decluttering to moving, I help connect all the pieces.
  • Insurance Expertise10+ years in property insurance helps identify coverage considerations.

How I Help Seniors

  • Evaluate aging-in-place potential
  • Research HOA rules and financials
  • Arrange virtual tours
  • Connect with senior move managers
  • Coordinate with family members
  • Navigate estate and trust sales
  • Assess insurance implications

Virtual Tours Available

Can't make it in person? No problem. I offer comprehensive virtual tours of patio homes so you can explore properties from the comfort of your current home—or share with family members who live out of state.

Schedule a Virtual Tour
Live video walkthrough
Recorded for family review
Q&A during tour
Neighborhood drive-through

Patio Home FAQ

What exactly is a patio home?

A patio home is a single-level, detached or semi-attached home with a small yard and shared exterior maintenance. They offer the privacy of a single-family home with the low-maintenance benefits of condo living—perfect for active adults who want to travel or simply enjoy life without yard work.

What does the HOA typically cover?

Most patio home HOAs cover lawn care, snow removal, exterior maintenance, and common area upkeep. Some include roof and siding maintenance. Fees typically range from $150-$400/month depending on the community and services included.

Are patio homes good for aging in place?

Yes! Single-level living eliminates stairs, which is the #1 cause of senior falls at home. Many newer patio homes include wider doorways, zero-entry showers, and other accessibility features. I help identify homes with the best aging-in-place potential.

What's the difference between patio homes and condos?

Patio homes are typically detached or semi-attached single-level structures with your own yard space and private entrance. Condos often share walls, may have multiple floors, and usually have less private outdoor space. Patio homes offer more privacy while still providing low-maintenance living.

Ready to Simplify Your Life?

Let me help you find the perfect patio home—a place where you can lock the door and travel, spend time with grandkids, or simply enjoy life without weekend chores.

What you get working with me:

  • SRES® certified senior expertise
  • Aging-in-place evaluation
  • HOA research and comparison
  • Virtual tours for you and family

Find Your Patio Home

I'll reach out within 24 hours to learn about your needs

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Ready to make your smart move? Free Home Value Book Consultation (563) 513-8771
Call Sarah