Thinking about a move to West Des Moines but not sure where to start? Relocating from out of state can feel like a lot, especially when you are trying to line up showings, inspections, utilities, and a closing timeline from miles away. You deserve a simple plan that removes guesswork and keeps you on schedule. This step-by-step guide walks you through every major decision point so you can move with confidence and settle in smoothly. Let’s dive in.
Why West Des Moines works for commuters
Location and access
West Des Moines sits just west and southwest of downtown Des Moines with quick connections to I-235, I-80, and I-35. Those corridors make it easy to get around the metro. If your workday is flexible, plan key appointments outside the morning and evening rush to avoid heavier traffic on major interstates and arterial roads.
Transit options
Most residents drive, but you can also use Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) bus routes that serve parts of West Des Moines. There is no regional commuter rail. If you rely on transit, review current route maps and schedules and build in buffer time for transfers.
School boundaries
Portions of West Des Moines are served by the West Des Moines Community School District and neighboring districts. School boundaries can split neighborhoods. If schools factor into your decision, verify attendance areas directly with district offices or via Polk County parcel records before you make an offer.
Your 90‑day relocation timeline
90+ days out
- Research neighborhoods, commute routes, schools, and daily needs like grocery and medical access.
- Get mortgage pre-approval if buying, or request a pricing and list strategy if selling.
- Interview local agents who provide relocation support and vetted vendor introductions.
60 days out
- Schedule neighborhood previews. Ask for live video tours, recorded walkthroughs, or 3D tours and floor plans.
- Collect and transfer medical, school, and pet records. Check daycare and school enrollment dates.
- Get quotes from movers and reserve dates early, especially during peak moving seasons.
30 days out
- Order your home inspection. Consider add-ons like radon, pest/termite, HVAC, and a sewer scope for older systems.
- Set up utilities for your move-in date. Plan electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, and internet.
- Confirm homeowner’s insurance quotes and bind coverage to start on your closing day.
14 days out
- Schedule your final walkthrough. If you are remote, plan a live video walkthrough.
- Confirm closing logistics with the title company, including wiring instructions and whether remote online notarization or a power of attorney is available.
- Pack nonessential items and confirm pet transport plans.
7 days to closing
- Verify your final funds and confirm the moving carrier’s arrival window.
- Complete change-of-address notifications.
- Day before closing, check in with your lender and title agent to confirm signing times and documents.
Remote home shopping and tours
Video tour options
You can view homes through live video calls, recorded high-resolution walkthroughs, 3D tours, and annotated floor plans. Ask your agent to highlight room orientation, storage, flooring, and visible condition items. Request close-ups of areas that matter to you.
Scheduling across time zones
West Des Moines follows Central Time. If you are on the East or West Coast, ask for early morning or evening tour slots. Block travel time between tours just as you would for in-person showings.
What to look for on video
- Natural light and window direction by time of day.
- Floor plan flow and room dimensions against a provided plan.
- Age and condition indicators like HVAC equipment, windows, roof, and appliances.
- Noise factors near highways or busy roads during peak hours.
Inspections that matter in West Des Moines
Standard and specialized inspections
Plan a general home inspection and consider radon testing, termite or pest inspection, HVAC evaluation, and a sewer scope for older properties. If the property has a well or septic, schedule those inspections too.
How remote inspections work
Many inspectors can livestream the inspection or provide recorded video with an annotated digital report. Schedule inspections early in your contingency period so there is time for negotiations, repairs, and any needed re-inspections.
Final walkthrough if you are away
Designate your agent or inspector to attend in person and run a real-time video walkthrough with you. Confirm repairs, test appliances and utilities, check for new damage, and ensure personal items were removed as agreed. Document with video and a signed walkthrough confirmation.
Set up utilities and services
Power, gas, water, and trash
- Electricity and gas: MidAmerican Energy is the primary provider in central Iowa. Have your ID, service address, and proof of residence ready and ask about deposits or credit checks.
- Water and sewer: Accounts are managed through West Des Moines city utilities. Confirm your start date aligns with possession to avoid gaps.
- Trash and recycling: Check the city program or approved haulers for pickup days and container details.
Internet and TV
Spectrum and other regional ISPs serve much of the metro. Availability and speeds vary by address, so check service options early. Remote workers should confirm upload speeds and appointment windows.
Insurance you need by closing
If you are financing, lenders require proof of homeowner’s insurance before closing. Standard policies cover dwelling, personal property, liability, and loss of use. Consider endorsements for flood zones, sump pump failure, or high-value items. For condos, request the HOA master policy summary to confirm what is covered.
Closing from out of state
Your signing options
Ask your title company which options are available to you:
- Remote online notarization if supported by the title company and your lender.
- Power of attorney for a trusted representative. Confirm requirements and get approval in advance.
- In-person signing at a local title office if you can travel.
Documents you will need
- Buyers: government ID, proof of funds for closing, lender documents, and any power of attorney documentation if used.
- Sellers: government ID, mortgage payoff information, keys and remotes, and any affidavits the title company requires.
Wire safety checklist
- Call your title company using a verified phone number to confirm wiring instructions. Do not rely on email alone.
- Enable two-factor authentication on email and financial accounts.
- If advised by the title company, consider a cashier’s check or escrow service.
After you close: admin to-dos
Vehicle, license, and voting
New residents should review Iowa DOT and Polk County Treasurer steps and timelines for driver’s license transfers and vehicle registration. For voter registration, contact the county election office or register online if available.
School enrollment
Reach out to your assigned school district to confirm required proof of residency, immunization records, and enrollment windows. If you are moving mid-year, ask about start dates and transfer steps.
Trusted local help
Vetted vendor categories
You will likely want introductions to movers, home inspectors, title and escrow companies, insurance agents, utility and internet installers, and contractors for repairs such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing. Also consider locksmiths, garage door technicians, cleaners, junk removal, lawn and landscape services, pest control, and storage facilities.
How communication will work
Relocating buyers value fast updates. Expect clear timelines, flexible meeting windows, and real-time reporting after showings and inspections. Ask your agent for a concise vendor list with contact names, typical response times, and what to expect during the first call.
Quick checklists
Pre-move contact list
- Real estate agent and lender
- Title company or closing attorney
- Home inspector
- Moving company and storage facility if needed
- Utilities: electric, gas, water, sewer, trash
- Internet and cable provider
- School district contact
- Polk County Treasurer and Iowa DOT for license and registration
Documents to gather
- Government ID and proof of funds
- Purchase contract or lease
- HOA documents if applicable
- Recent utility statements if selling
- Keys, remotes, appliance manuals
- Medical, school, and pet records
Final remote closing checklist
- Verify wiring instructions by phone with the title company the day you send funds
- Confirm time zone for your signing appointment
- Confirm your notarization method and technology access
- Decide who will perform the final walkthrough and how video will be shared
Moving to West Des Moines should feel organized and predictable. With a clear plan, the right vendors, and proactive communication, you can shop, inspect, and close from afar without missing a beat. If you want a hands-on local guide to coordinate tours, inspections, utilities, and closing details, connect with Erika Hansen to schedule a free consultation.
FAQs
What is a realistic timeline to relocate to West Des Moines?
- Many buyers plan for about 60 to 90 days from home search to closing, depending on inventory, financing, and your move date flexibility.
Can I buy a West Des Moines home without visiting in person?
- Yes, many relocate remotely using live video tours, detailed recordings, and thorough inspections, followed by a video final walkthrough before closing.
Which utilities do I set up for a West Des Moines home?
- Plan for electricity and gas through the primary regional provider, city-managed water and sewer, trash service, and internet with an available ISP at your address.
What inspections are most important in West Des Moines?
- Standard general inspection plus radon testing, termite or pest inspection, HVAC evaluation, and a sewer scope for older systems. Add well or septic if applicable.
How does commuting work in West Des Moines?
- Most residents drive using I-235, I-80, and I-35. DART bus routes serve parts of the city, but there is no regional rail. Schedule around rush hours when possible.
Can I close on a West Des Moines property from out of state?
- Many title companies offer remote signing options, such as remote online notarization or power of attorney, subject to lender and title approval.
How do school assignments work in West Des Moines?
- School boundaries can vary by neighborhood and address. Verify attendance zones directly with local school district offices or through county parcel records before you buy.
