Robert Orton of West Des Moines, IA, owns Orton Development Company and serves as the CEO of American Group LLC, his real estate holding company. Widely regarded as one of the Midwest's largest real estate brokers and developers, Orton Homes is known for producing reasonably priced homes with high-end finishes. His success in delivering quality homes at attainable prices is mainly due to strong partnerships with construction material suppliers and subcontractors. Along with his business achievements, he has built a reputation for helping landlords expand into larger portfolio holdings, guiding others toward long-term real estate growth.
Robert has made his mark as a land developer in downtown Des Moines and throughout the Midwest, earning several industry awards, including home design, interior design, and Builder of the Year recognition. He is also an innovator, holding a patent for real estate technology focused on home package delivery and drone delivery systems. His interests in technology extend further, with work on a transaction demand exchange intellectual property patent for an AI and Crypto application in financial exchanges. These efforts highlight his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to advancing business opportunities for SMBs.
Born in London, England, Robert attended Rugby Boarding School before studying real estate management and economics in Oxford and London. Even before becoming an American citizen, he was already active in the industry, starting his first company, remodeling and leasing flats in London and Brighton. After moving to the United States, he built real estate interests in Iowa, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota. His fascination with the field was strongly influenced by family history, as many of the men in his family were masons involved in rebuilding London after World War 2.
Robert’s passion for real estate began during childhood when he visited job sites with his grandfather and gained firsthand exposure to the building process. His appreciation for design grew through his work at the family’s Orton Fine Arts and Antiques business, where he learned the value of interiors and furnishings. Starting at 14, and continuing through his years at university, he worked for commercial property specialists, an experience that prepared him for his future career. After relocating to the United States, he began developing new business connections in Scottsdale, AZ, and New York.
By 2010, Robert had launched Orton Homes, focusing on custom and spec home construction. He headquartered the business in Iowa to serve the Midwest, later expanding into other ventures. These included Orton Development Company, which is focused on land development for residential and commercial projects; RT Development, a property holding company; and Nexus, a commercial construction company. His reach extended into the home and multifamily rental business through Go Rental Team, LLC.
Robert’s proprietary land development and construction process is central to his success. He works with homeowners step by step, from lot selection and design customization to cost planning and financing. His teams guide clients through each stage until the home is complete, ensuring both style and function are considered. Commercial projects receive the same care, designed to balance practicality with interiors that suit traditional or modern approaches.
Robert Orton has overseen the creation of residential communities across Iowa, including Ashley Acres, Creekview Estates, Gladbury Park, and Scenic Ridge. These communities feature ranch-style and two- or three-bedroom homes with gourmet kitchens, fireplaces, large bathrooms, and three-car garages. Under Robert’s leadership, his teams have earned respect as specialists in residential home building, with experience ranging from starter homes to luxury developments.
Robert has also devoted time and resources to community causes. His real estate work has always been tied to a desire to see families thrive in safe and supportive environments. He has supported homeless shelters, children’s health initiatives, and programs for victims of trauma or violence. He volunteers with church organizations and has also assisted with interventions for individuals facing severe mental health challenges. His efforts extend to collaborations with grassroots groups and medical professionals, working to help those in need.
