61Robert Orton of West Des Moines, IA, owns Orton Development Company and is the CEO of American Group LLC, his real estate holding company. Counted among the Midwest's largest real estate brokers and developers, Orton Homes is well known for building reasonably priced homes with high-end finishes. His partnerships with construction material suppliers and subcontractors make this possible. He is also recognized for guiding landlords on growing into larger portfolio holdings, sharing insights that help them expand steadily.
He has made his mark as a land developer in downtown Des Moines and across the Midwest, receiving awards for home design, interior design, and Builder of the Year. He also holds a patent for real estate technology involving a home package delivery and drone delivery system. His interest in innovation extends to a transaction demand exchange of intellectual property patents for an AI and Crypto application in financial exchanges. These efforts highlight his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to SMBs.
Born in London, England, Robert attended Rugby Boarding School before studying real estate management and economics in Oxford and London. Before becoming an American citizen, he launched his first company, remodeling and leasing flats in London and Brighton. After moving to the United States, he developed real estate interests in Iowa, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota. His family history influenced his path, as many of his relatives were masons who helped rebuild London after World War 2.
Robert’s interest in real estate began early. He accompanied his grandfather to job sites, where he learned the details of home building. He developed a love for interiors while working at the family’s Orton Fine Arts and Antiques business. From 14 and throughout his university years, he worked with commercial property specialists, preparing him for his career. After relocating to the U.S., he built business ties in Scottsdale, AZ, and New York.
In 2010, Robert founded Orton Homes, a custom and spec home developer headquartered in Iowa. His ventures later expanded to Orton Development Company, a land development company, RT Development, a property holding company, and Nexus, a commercial construction firm. He also entered the rental market with Go Rental Team, LLC, which manages homes and multifamily units.
His proprietary land development and construction process is key to his success. He works with homeowners from lot selection and design to financing and final construction. His team focuses on detail and style, ensuring each home reflects the client’s needs. His commercial projects are also known for combining function with interiors suited to modern or traditional preferences.
He has built several communities in Iowa, including Ashley Acres, Creekview Estates, Gladbury Park, and Scenic Ridge. These neighborhoods feature ranch-style and two- or three-bedroom homes with gourmet kitchens, fireplaces, spacious bathrooms, and three-car garages. His teams are recognized as specialists in both starter and luxury homes.
Robert also dedicates time to community causes. He has supported homeless shelters, children’s health organizations, and victims of trauma or violence. He volunteers with church groups and has helped individuals facing serious mental health challenges. His involvement with grassroots organizations and doctors shows his ongoing commitment to those in need.
Outside of business, Robert is a traveler and a Rugby enthusiast. He played the sport in college and served as captain of an unbeaten team. In his youth, he also enjoyed hockey and cricket. Today, he spends time skiing with his family in mountain destinations, exploring new cultures and cuisines abroad, and at home, enjoys time with his daughters, theaters, museums, and yearly hunting trips.
Robert Orton’s journey reflects achievement, innovation, and service. From his beginnings in London to his career in the United States, he continues influencing real estate and the communities he builds.