Robert Orton
Owner at ORTON DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
Robert Orton of West Des Moines, IA, owns Orton Development Company and is the CEO of American Group LLC, his real estate holding company. As one of the Midwest's largest real estate brokers and developers, Orton Homes is well known for building reasonably priced homes with high-end finishes. This reputation comes from his many partnerships with construction material suppliers and subcontractors. He has also earned recognition for helping landlords shift into larger portfolio holdings by sharing his knowledge and experience.
He has established himself as a leading land developer in downtown Des Moines and across the Midwest. His work has brought him multiple awards in home design, interior design, and Builder of the Year. Beyond construction, he has pursued innovation, including a home package delivery and drone delivery system patent. He has also developed a transaction demand exchange intellectual property patent for an AI and Crypto application in financial exchanges, showing his commitment to supporting SMBs and driving new ideas.
Born in London, England, Robert attended Rugby Boarding School and studied real estate management and economics in Oxford and London. Before becoming an American citizen, he started his first company, remodeling and leasing flats in London and Brighton. After moving to the United States, he grew real estate interests in Iowa, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota. His family’s history strongly influenced him, as many relatives were masons involved in rebuilding London after World War 2.
His passion for real estate began when he accompanied his grandfather to job sites and witnessed the skill of home building. His appreciation for interiors grew from working in the family’s Orton Fine Arts and Antiques business. From the age of 14, and throughout his university years, he gained experience with commercial property specialists. After relocating to the U.S., he built business relationships in Scottsdale, AZ, and New York, preparing him for future ventures.
By 2010, Robert launched Orton Homes as a developer of custom and spec homes, establishing headquarters in Iowa. Over time, he expanded into Orton Development Company, focusing on land projects, RT Development, a property holding company, and Nexus, a commercial construction firm. He also grew his presence in the home and multifamily rental business through Go Rental Team, LLC.
His proprietary land development and construction processes are central reasons for his success. He works directly with homeowners, from lot selection to design, cost planning, financing, and final construction. His process ensures each home reflects the client’s needs and style. His commercial projects also balance function with interior design, covering modern and traditional styles.
Robert Orton is recognized for building residential communities such as Ashley Acres, Creekview Estates, Gladbury Park, and Scenic Ridge in Iowa. These neighborhoods feature ranch-style and two- or three-bedroom homes with amenities like gourmet kitchens, fireplaces, spacious bathrooms, and three-car garages. His teams have become known as specialists in both starter and luxury homes.
Robert also contributes to his community. He has supported homeless shelters, children’s health organizations, and programs for victims of trauma or violence. He volunteers through church organizations and has helped individuals facing serious mental health challenges. His work with grassroots groups and doctors reflects his ongoing commitment to providing aid for those in need.
In his personal life, he is a world traveler and a lifelong Rugby fan. He played the sport in college and was captain of an unbeaten team. In his youth, he also played hockey and cricket. Today, he travels with his family to ski in mountain regions and often spends extended time abroad enjoying culture and food. At home, he spends time with his daughters, visiting theaters and museums, and going on yearly hunting trips.
