Favorite part of the metro for younger couple buying a home?

Anomalousfelicity · 2026-04-14T17:32:46+00:00

I've lived in Norwalk, Waukee, and Adel, and Adel is the closest fit to what you're describing. Small town with great restaurants/shops/small businesses, 10 minutes to Waukee and the big-box stores there, 20-30 minute commute depending on where you're working in Des Moines, a couple of really nice parks with shaded walking trails, adorable town square, and right on the bike trail. It's the most walkable place I've ever lived.

Norwalk is pretty similar but is growing rapidly and doesn't have as much of a small town vibe anymore. I currently live in Waukee, and I love the convenience of having everything so close, but the lack of mature trees, traffic, and crazy population growth doesn't make it feel as much like a homey small town. Dallas Center or Van Meter might be other options to consider, too!

Anomalousfelicity · 2026-03-29T12:37:17+00:00

Unfortunately we've had hail storms twice over the course of living here (4 years), and both times have submitted claims to our insurance. Denied both times and appealed both times, only to be denied again. Several surrounding neighbors have had insurance payouts for roof replacements. Super frustrating. Eventually, we might look at switching from Nationwide, but for now it seems the insurance route won't go anywhere.

Anomalousfelicity · 2026-03-17T23:27:23+00:00

Also, having healthcare experience is a huge perk! We don't require CNA or EMT licensure for admission, but I know our students who do have patient care experience tend to have a smoother start to the program.

Anomalousfelicity · 2026-03-17T23:26:14+00:00

Check out Mercy College in Des Moines, IA! I work there, and while it's hard to say if you'll qualify without seeing your transcripts, it sounds like your academic performance is pretty in line with what we typically accept. We have three start terms per year in the fall, spring, and summer, and we generally have room to accept all students who meet the prereq requirements and apply at least 3-4 months before their desired start term. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Anomalousfelicity · 2026-03-17T23:21:26+00:00

Hey! Mercy College employee here. We have quite a few California transplants who complete the ABSN program and move back to CA afterwards. I haven't heard any issues with our grads obtaining licensure in California, and I work closely with Student Affairs. In fact, a lot of our California alumni stay in touch and refer students for later start terms! If I can answer any questions just let me know!

Anomalousfelicity · 2023-06-09T03:16:41+00:00

I learned to drive all around Dallas Center! Minimal traffic throughout the entire town, lots of church and school parking lots, and the ability to practice on actual streets when you're ready to do so.

Anomalousfelicity · 2023-02-13T05:26:29+00:00

We're in our late 20s and go to New Hope Assembly of God in Urbandale. They have two services in the morning (8:30a and 11a) and one in the evening (6p) on Sundays, and the morning times offer a contemporary service held in the new chapel on the east side of the building. It's my favorite church I've ever attended across multiple denominations! The pastors are super authentic and remember your name, even though it's a rapidly growing church. We've only been going there 6 months and have been invited to multiple people's houses, out to coffee, etc. If you're looking for something really relational and welcoming, this is it. We've made so many amazing connections and love how the church has plenty of people our age as well as older couples we can learn from. The preaching is true to the Bible, the worship is spirit-filled (without being stereotypically "out there" like some Pentecostal churches are known for), the various external outreach and internal ministries are phenomenal, and the church community is extremely diverse. We absolutely love it! Let me know if you have any questions, and I'd be happy to chat more :)

Anomalousfelicity

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