Speaker

Robert Orton

Robert Orton

Owner at ORTON DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.

Des Moines, Iowa, United States

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Robert 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 has built a reputation for offering reasonably priced homes with high-end finishes. His long-term partnerships with construction material suppliers and subcontractors make this possible. Beyond building homes, he is also known for guiding landlords on expanding into larger portfolio holdings, helping them grow successfully in real estate.

As a land developer in downtown Des Moines and throughout the Midwest, Robert has received awards for home design, interior design, and Builder of the Year. His achievements include innovation in real estate technology, with a home package delivery and drone delivery system patent. He has further worked on developing a transaction demand exchange intellectual property patent for an AI and Crypto application in financial exchanges. These projects reflect his interest in combining real estate with technology and his dedication to supporting SMBs.

He was born in London, England, and attended Rugby Boarding School before studying real estate management and economics in Oxford and London. Even 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 built real estate interests across Iowa, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota. His fascination with real estate was strongly tied to his family history, as many men in his family were masons who contributed to the rebuilding of London after World War 2.

Robert’s interest in real estate began in childhood while traveling with his grandfather to job sites, where he witnessed the details of home building. His appreciation for interiors grew through his work in the family business, Orton Fine Arts and Antiques. From the age of 14, and throughout his university years, he gained valuable experience with commercial property specialists. After relocating to the U.S., he expanded his business network by forming connections in Scottsdale, AZ, and New York.

In 2010, Robert Orton founded Orton Homes, a custom and spec home developer headquartered in Iowa to serve the Midwest. Over time, his business ventures grew to include Orton Development Company, specializing in land development for residential and commercial projects, RT Development, a property holding company, and Nexus, a commercial construction company. He also built a strong presence in the rental market with Go Rental Team, LLC, focusing on homes and multifamily properties.

His success is closely tied to his proprietary land development and construction process. He works directly with homeowners at every stage, from lot selection and financing to customization and final construction. His approach ensures that each home reflects its owners' needs and style. His commercial projects also follow the same careful process, designed to combine function with interiors suited to traditional and modern preferences.

Orton has led the development of residential communities across 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 starter homes and luxury residences, contributing to his reputation as a leading home builder.

Community service has always been an essential part of his life. He has contributed to homeless shelters, children’s health organizations, and support services for victims of trauma or violence. He also volunteers with church groups and has assisted in interventions for people facing serious mental health challenges. His collaboration with grassroots organizations and medical professionals demonstrates his ongoing commitment to those in need.

Outside of business, Robert is a world traveler and Rugby enthusiast. He played the sport during college and captained an unbeaten team. In his youth, he also enjoyed hockey and cricket. Today, he often travels with his family on skiing trips to mountain destinations worldwide. His time abroad has given him opportunities to enjoy different cultures and cuisines. At home, he spends time with his daughters, visiting theaters and museums, and going on yearly hunting trips.

Robert Orton’s journey from London to the United States reflects a career shaped by dedication, innovation, and community. He continues to influence real estate development while building lasting connections with families and communities across the Midwest.

Area of Expertise

  • Business & Management
  • Finance & Banking
  • Real Estate & Architecture

Topics

  • Orton Development Company
  • American Group LLC
  • Orton Homes
  • Real Estate Management and Economics

Robert Orton

Owner at ORTON DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.

Des Moines, Iowa, United States

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