Robert Orton

Robert Orton of West Des Moines, IA, owns Orton Development Company and is the CEO of American Group LLC, his real estate holding company. Regarded as one of the Midwest's largest real estate brokers and developers, Orton Homes is recognized for building reasonably priced homes that include high-end finishes. His many partnerships with construction material suppliers and subcontractors make this achievement possible. He has also built a reputation for sharing his knowledge with landlords, helping them move into larger portfolio holdings and supporting their business growth. As a land developer, Robert has played a significant role in shaping downtown Des Moines and communities across the Midwest. His work has been honored with multiple industry awards, including home design, interior design, and Builder of the Year recognition. Beyond construction, he is an innovator with a patent for real estate technology involving a home package delivery and drone delivery system. His development of a transaction demand exchange intellectual property patent for an AI and Crypto application in financial exchanges reflects his entrepreneurial mindset and his support of SMBs. He was born in London, England, where he attended Rugby Boarding School and later studied real estate management and economics in Oxford and London. Before becoming an American citizen, he launched his first company in England, remodeling and leasing flats in London and Brighton. After moving to the United States, he grew his real estate interests in Iowa, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota. His passion for the field was strongly influenced by his family history, as many of his relatives were masons involved in rebuilding London after World War 2. His interest in real estate began when he traveled with his grandfather to job sites and witnessed the detail and skill of home building. He also developed a love for interiors while working with the family business, Orton Fine Arts and Antiques. From the age of 14, and continuing through his university years, he gained practical experience working with commercial property specialists. After relocating to the United States, he expanded his network by forming business connections in Scottsdale, AZ, and New York. In 2010, Robert launched Orton Homes, a custom and spec home construction company headquartered in Iowa, focusing on the Midwest. Over time, he added new ventures, including Orton Development Company for land development, RT Development as a property holding company, and Nexus, a commercial construction company. He also grew into the rental sector through Go Rental Team, LLC, managing homes and multifamily properties. His proprietary land development and construction process has been key to his success. He works with homeowners from the earliest stages, guiding them through lot selection, design, financing, and final construction. His teams emphasize detail, ensuring each home reflects the owner’s needs and style. Commercial projects under his leadership follow the same careful process, balancing functionality with interiors that reflect both modern and traditional approaches. He has developed residential communities across Iowa, including Ashley Acres, Creekview Estates, Gladbury Park, and Scenic Ridge. These neighborhoods offer ranch-style and two- or three-bedroom homes with gourmet kitchens, fireplaces, spacious bathrooms, and three-car garages. His teams have become recognized as specialists in residential home building, with experience in starter homes and luxury designs. Community support has always been a priority for Robert. His passion for real estate connects to his desire to see families and communities thrive. He has made contributions to homeless shelters, children’s health organizations, and programs supporting victims of trauma or violence. He volunteers with church organizations and has provided help in cases of severe mental health challenges. His work with grassroots institutions and medical professionals shows his ongoing dedication to those facing daily struggles. Outside of his business career, He is a world traveler with a lifelong love for Rugby. During college, he played the sport and was captain of an unbeaten team. In his youth, he also enjoyed hockey and cricket. Today, he often travels with his family on skiing holidays in mountain destinations worldwide. His time abroad has allowed him to enjoy culture and cuisine across different regions. He values time with his daughters at home, visiting theaters and museums, and participating in annual hunting trips. Robert Orton’s journey reflects determination, innovation, and community service. From his early beginnings in London to his established presence in the United States, he continues to shape real estate while supporting families and communities across the Midwest.