Step into a rare piece of Iowa history with this stately Union Park residence, originally built by a British sea captain and once serving as the former Governor’s home. Perfectly blending historic charm with thoughtful updates, this home offers over a century of character paired with modern-day comfort. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a spacious formal dining room and a grand living room anchored by a warm, inviting fireplace. The sunroom, drenched in natural light, provides serene views of the meticulously landscaped gardens — an ideal spot for morning coffee or afternoon reading. The updated kitchen offers both functionality and style, marrying contemporary finishes with the home’s timeless architecture. Upstairs, you’ll find three generously sized bedrooms, including one with a private rooftop balcony overlooking the lush gardens. A convenient second-floor laundry room adds everyday practicality. Don’t miss the walk-up attic — a unique space with original dormer windows, perfect for a bonus room, studio, or potential fourth bedroom. The finished basement boasts abundant storage, a second laundry room, and a cozy family room, creating even more space to relax and entertain.
Outdoors, the tranquility continues with stone water features, thoughtfully designed landscaping, a three-car garage, and a large storage shed — all set within a peaceful, garden-inspired environment.
Sold for $324,900 on 08/04/25
$324,900
738 E Washington Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
4beds
2,142sqft
Single Family Residence
Built in 1902
0.33 Acres Lot
$324,900 Zestimate®
$152/sqft
$2,237 Estimated rent
What's special
Zillow last checked: 7 hours ago
Listing updated: August 06, 2025 at 02:37pm
Listed by:
Jason Russell (515)201-1490,
Realty ONE Group Impact,
Trisha Eslick Davis 515-778-9733,
Realty ONE Group Impact
Bought with:
Rich Hudnut
RE/MAX Concepts
Source: DMMLS,MLS#: 716494
Originating MLS: Des Moines Area Association of REALTORS

Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 4
- Bathrooms: 2
- Full bathrooms: 1
- 3/4 bathrooms: 1
Heating
- Forced Air, Gas, Natural Gas
Cooling
- Central Air
Appliances
- Included: Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Refrigerator, Stove, Washer
Features
- Separate/Formal Dining Room
- Flooring: Carpet, Hardwood, Laminate
- Basement: Finished
- Number of fireplaces: 1
- Fireplace features: Wood Burning
Interior area
- Total structure area: 2,142
- Total interior livable area: 2,142 sqft
- Finished area below ground: 0
Property
Parking
- Total spaces: 3
- Parking features: Detached, Garage, Three Car Garage
- Garage spaces: 3
Features
- Levels: Two
- Stories: 2
- Patio & porch: Covered, Open, Patio, Porch, Screened
- Exterior features: Enclosed Porch, Patio
- Fencing: Wood
Lot
- Size: 0.33 Acres
- Features: Irregular Lot
Details
- Parcel number: 11005894001000
- Zoning: N5
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Architectural style: Two Story
- Property subtype: Single Family Residence
Materials
- Wood Siding
- Foundation: Block
- Roof: Asphalt,Shingle
Condition
- Year built: 1902
Utilities & green energy
- Sewer: Public Sewer
- Water: Public
Community & neighborhood
Location
- Region: Des Moines
Other
Other facts
- Listing terms: Cash,Conventional
- Road surface type: Concrete
Services availability

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