Gladiator Homes, a Des Moines-based residential home builder focused on affordable new construction across Central Iowa, today announced the opening of its Fall 2026 build season, with available lots and floor plan selections now open for buyers targeting spring and early summer 2027 closings.
The announcement comes as demand for right-priced new construction homes in the Des Moines metro continues to outpace existing resale inventory, leaving first-time buyers, downsizers, and relocating families with limited options in the traditional market.
"Fall is genuinely one of the best windows to start a new build in Central Iowa," said a spokesperson for Gladiator Homes. "Less buyer competition, more subcontractor availability, and a spring closing target — it's a combination that works in the buyer's favor, and we want people to know those lots are available now."

AVAILABLE COMMUNITIES FOR FALL 2026 STARTS
Gladiator Homes is currently accepting contracts for fall 2026 build starts across multiple active communities in the Des Moines metro, including:

Ankeny, Iowa — One of Central Iowa's fastest-growing suburbs, with strong school district performance and consistent new construction activity
Norwalk, Iowa — Southwest Des Moines suburban community offering competitive pricing and an established neighborhood feel
Altoona and Bondurant — East metro communities delivering strong square footage value with easy interstate access and lower entry price points

Buyers signing contracts in September or October 2026 can realistically target March through May 2027 closings, depending on floor plan selection, permitting timelines, and weather conditions during foundation and framing phases.

FLOOR PLANS DESIGNED FOR REAL IOWA BUDGETS
Gladiator Homes offers ranch and two-story floor plan options ranging from approximately 1,200 to 1,800 square feet, with base pricing structured to work within first-time buyer and downsizer budgets without requiring significant upgrade spending to achieve livable results.
Entry-level new construction starts in the Des Moines metro range from approximately $195,000 in east metro communities to $295,000 in higher-demand western suburbs. Gladiator Homes' floor plan lineup targets the $210,000–$280,000 range across its active communities — a segment of the market that has seen limited builder attention in recent years as larger regional and national builders have focused on higher-margin price points.
"We build homes that make financial sense for the buyer who actually needs a new home," the spokesperson added. "That means transparent base pricing, efficient floor plan design, and a process that doesn't rely on design center upgrades to make the numbers work."

FINANCING OPTIONS AND FIRST-TIME BUYER PROGRAMS
Gladiator Homes works with preferred lending partners who offer access to Iowa Finance Authority programs, FHA and USDA financing options, and rate buydown structures for qualifying buyers. The company encourages all prospective buyers to obtain independent pre-approval before beginning the lot selection and contract process.
Current builder incentives available on select lots and available homes include closing cost assistance and upgrade allowances. Incentive availability varies by community and inventory level and is subject to change.

ABOUT GLADIATOR HOMES
Gladiator Homes is a Des Moines-area residential home builder specializing in affordable new construction homes across Central Iowa. The company builds in communities throughout the Des Moines metro — including Ankeny, Norwalk, Altoona, and Bondurant — with a focus on efficient floor plan design, transparent pricing, and quality construction at price points accessible to first-time buyers, downsizing homeowners, and budget-conscious families. Gladiator Homes operates as part of the Happe Homes family of companies.
For more information, visit gladiatorhomes.com or contact:
Gladiator Homes
2575 N Ankeny Blvd #211
Ankeny, IA 50023
📞 (515) 963-0842
✉️ [email protected]