Building Dream Homes in Gilbert’s Premier Communities | Award-Winning Schools | Small-Town Living
High School in Iowa
From Iowa State University
Elementary Math Proficiency
To Des Moines
Gilbert High School ranks as the #1 high school in Iowa according to the Iowa School Performance Profile, with the district achieving EXCEPTIONAL ratings and students scoring over 20 percent higher than the state average in math and language arts proficiency. The Gilbert Community School District maintains a highly rated status with a 16:1 student-teacher ratio and 90% of students achieving proficiency in math and 92% in reading.
Located just four miles north of Ames, Gilbert offers small-town atmosphere while staying minutes from Iowa State University and Somerset dining and shopping.
Minutes away - Access to Big 12 athletics, Reiman Gardens, and cultural events
Major employment hub with diverse career opportunities
Easy connectivity throughout Story County
30 minutes to Iowa's capital and largest metro area
Gilbert’s population reached 1,211 in the 2020 census, continuing steady growth in this Story County community. The city encompasses 583 acres featuring 3 parks, walking trails, soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, churches, a library, museum, and 2 community centers.
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: By Appointment
Sunday: Closed
Prairie Valley is a premier residential development nestled in northwest Ames within the highly sought-after Gilbert School District, offering a tranquil, country-like setting while keeping residents just minutes from Somerset dining, shopping, and Iowa State University. The development is surrounded by protected prairie landscapes and conservation areas, with Story County Conservation working cooperatively to permanently protect native prairie and floodplain while still providing a place for homes.

Spacious building sites with native prairie views and room for your dream home design

Access to future trails connecting to conservation areas and natural beauty

Surrounded by permanently protected prairie and natural landscapes

Iowa's #1 ranked school district with exceptional academic performance
Gilbert’s prominent parks include Lions Park, Banford Park, and Upstill Park, with a walking trail along Upstill Park near the elementary and soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds throughout.
Real reviews from Gilbert families who chose Happe Homes for their custom home.
Get answers to common questions about building a custom home in Gilbert
Typical construction timelines range from 6-10 months depending on the size and complexity of your home. Happe Homes provides detailed timelines during the planning phase.
Yes! Happe Homes can build on your existing lot or help you find the perfect building site in Gilbert or Prairie Valley development.
The Gilbert Community School District covers 48 square miles primarily in Story County, serving Gilbert and sections of northern Ames including Prairie Valley.
Custom home costs vary based on size, features, finishes, and location. We offer homes at various price points to fit different budgets. Contact us for a personalized consultation and estimate based on your specific needs and vision.
Gilbert offers tax abatement programs for new construction. Contact our team for current incentive information and eligibility.
We build custom ranch-style homes, two-story designs, homes with finished basements, and modern open-concept layouts tailored to your preferences.
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