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Indian Hills Homes for Sale | Clive Iowa | Established Character & Top Schools | Smart Move DSM
Clive's Original Gem

Indian Hills
Established Excellence

Where Clive began its rise as a desirable suburb. Mature trees, well-maintained homes, and West Des Moines' top-rated schools—the trifecta families seek.

$300K–$500K Home Prices
9/10 WDM Schools
1970s-80s Build Era
Greenbelt Trail Access

Clive's First Desirable Suburb

Indian Hills was among the first neighborhoods that established Clive's reputation for quality living—and four decades later, that appeal hasn't faded.

Developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Indian Hills represents what suburban living was meant to be: tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes with character, and a tight-knit community where neighbors know each other. This wasn't cookie-cutter development—it was thoughtful planning that created a neighborhood people love.

Walnut Creek flows along the neighborhood's edge, connecting to the 11-mile Clive Greenbelt Trail. Indian Hills Junior High School sits within the neighborhood, and Valley High School—ranked fourth-best public high school in Iowa—is just a short drive away. For families prioritizing schools, few locations deliver better.

The homes here, typically 1,500-2,500 square feet, offer the quality construction of their era with many now thoughtfully updated. Prices reflect excellent value for West Des Moines Schools access, making Indian Hills attractive to both young families and those downsizing who want to stay in top school districts.

What Makes Indian Hills Special

  • One of Clive's first desirable neighborhoods
  • Mature trees creating stunning canopy streets
  • West Des Moines Schools (Valley High #4 in Iowa)
  • Indian Hills Junior High within walking distance
  • Walnut Creek & Greenbelt Trail access
  • Well-maintained homes with character
  • Central location near everything

The Indian Hills Lifestyle

Four decades of community, character, and convenient living

🌳

Mature Tree Canopy

Decades-old trees line quiet streets, providing shade, privacy, and the established character that newer developments can't replicate. This is what "grown-in" looks like.

🎓

West Des Moines Schools

Access to one of Iowa's premier districts. Indian Hills Junior High is literally in the neighborhood, and Valley High School (9/10) is minutes away.

🚶

Greenbelt Trail Access

Walnut Creek runs along the neighborhood, connecting to the 11-mile Clive Greenbelt Trail. Walk, bike, or run without getting in your car.

🏘️

Community Character

This is a neighborhood where people stay. Long-term residents, active neighborhood association, and the kind of community feel that takes years to develop.

📍

Central Location

University Avenue and Hickman Road put shopping, dining, and services nearby. Valley West Mall, Jordan Creek, downtown Des Moines—all within easy reach.

💰

Exceptional Value

West Des Moines Schools, established character, and greenbelt access at prices below newer construction. The value proposition is hard to beat.

Indian Hills Schools

West Des Moines Community Schools—consistently rated among Iowa's best

Elementary

Clive / Crestview / Crossroads Park

Multiple excellent elementary options serve Indian Hills depending on exact location. All deliver the WDM quality families expect.

⭐ WDMCS 9/10
Junior High

Indian Hills Junior High

9401 Indian Hills Dr • Located IN the neighborhood • Grades 7-8 • 659 students • Strong academics with B+ Niche rating

⭐ WDMCS 9/10
Freshman

Valley Southwoods Freshman

Dedicated freshman campus preparing students for Valley High School's rigorous academics.

⭐ WDMCS 9/10
High School

Valley High School

3650 Woodland Ave • #4 best public high school in Iowa (Niche) • 190+ courses • 95%+ graduation rate

⭐ Top 5 in Iowa

Indian Hills Market Insights

Strong demand for West Des Moines Schools + established character

$390K Median Home Price
20-35 Avg Days on Market
3.8% Annual Appreciation
Strong Demand Level

What Buyers Should Know

Indian Hills attracts two primary buyer profiles: families prioritizing West Des Moines Schools who want more home for their money than newer areas offer, and empty nesters seeking to downsize while maintaining access to quality schools (for grandchildren visits or resale value).

The $325,000-$425,000 range offers the best selection of updated homes with the mature landscaping and character that define this neighborhood. Original-condition homes may be available at lower price points for buyers willing to invest in updates.

Best Strategy: Look for homes with updated mechanicals (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) even if cosmetics need work. The "bones" in Indian Hills are solid—1970s-80s construction was built to last. I help buyers distinguish between cosmetic updates and essential infrastructure improvements.

Insurance Considerations for Indian Hills

My 10+ years of property insurance expertise helps Indian Hills buyers navigate older home considerations

1970s-80s Systems Assessment

Homes from this era may have original electrical panels, polybutylene plumbing, or other systems insurers scrutinize. I identify potential issues before they become surprises.

Roof & HVAC Documentation

Updated roofs and HVAC systems qualify for significant insurance discounts. I help buyers verify update dates and document them properly for maximum savings.

Mature Tree Considerations

Those beautiful mature trees require assessment. Tree health, proximity to structures, and potential liability all factor into proper coverage.

Replacement Cost Reality

Older homes with quality construction and updated features can cost more to replace than builders-grade new construction. I ensure proper coverage from the start.

Ready to Explore Indian Hills?

Search Indian Hills listings instantly with the Smart Move Des Moines app, or schedule a consultation to find your established Clive home.

📱 Download Free App 📅 Schedule Consultation 📞 (563) 513-8771

Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES®

Smart Move Des Moines • Brokered by CHASE. Collective Real Estate

10+ Years Insurance Expertise • Senior Transition Specialist

Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® | Smart Move Des Moines

Brokered by CHASE. Collective Real Estate | Iowa License #S73007000

(563) 513-8771 | [email protected]

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