Altoona Iowa
Construction & Remodeling
Your One Call Solution for Home Building and Remodeling in Central Iowa.
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Jobs Completed
Full-Service Construction And Remodeling in Altoona
Home Building
New home construction in Altoona, IA. This fast-growing city of over 23,000 residents sits east of Des Moines along I-80, home to Adventureland amusement park and Prairie Meadows casino. Founded in 1868 and named from the Latin word “altus” meaning “high” (the highest point on the Des Moines Valley Railroad between Des Moines and Keokuk), Altoona has grown over 107% since 2000. We build custom homes designed for Iowa’s climate with proper foundations, energy-efficient systems, and quality finishes.
Complete home remodeling in Altoona, IA. With 43% of housing built after 2000 and only 3% built before 1940, Altoona’s housing stock is relatively newer. However, rapid growth means many homes from the 1990s and 2000s are now ready for updates. Whether you’re modernizing a starter home or renovating to accommodate a growing family, we understand each era’s construction methods and can transform your home while respecting its structure.
Home Remodeling
Kitchen remodeling
We design and build kitchens in Altoona, IA that balance function and style. Many Altoona homes feature builder-grade finishes that homeowners want to upgrade. We customize solutions for your space, from cabinet refacing to complete renovations. Altoona’s location provides easy access to Des Moines metro suppliers for competitive material pricing.
We remodel basements in Altoona, IA to transform underutilized space into functional living areas. Polk County is in EPA Radon Zone 1, with predicted indoor screening levels above 4 pCi/L. Before any basement project, we recommend radon testing. Mitigation systems can be integrated into remodeling projects efficiently, protecting your family while adding valuable living space.
Basement Remodeling
Bathroom Remodeling
We remodel bathrooms in Altoona, IA to improve function, style, and efficiency. From simple updates like new vanities and fixtures to complete gut renovations with custom tile and walk-in showers, we handle projects of all sizes. Many Altoona homes have multiple bathrooms that benefit from coordinated updates.
We build home additions in Altoona, IA for growing families who love their location but need more space. The city offers a five-year residential tax abatement program to encourage residential development, which can apply to additions. Altoona is served by the Southeast Polk Community School District. We handle all aspects from design through permitting and construction.
Home Additions
Basement Finishing
We finish basements in Altoona, IA to maximize your living space. Whether you want a family room, home office, guest suite, or entertainment space, we handle framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, and all finishing touches. Proper moisture control and ventilation are essential in Iowa basements.
Our Dream Building Partners.
- About Us
Altoona, Iowa General Contractor
About Us
Established in 2020, Busy Builders was founded to bring integrity and honesty back to remodeling and homebuilding. We serve Altoona and all of Polk County, from small bathroom updates to complete custom home builds. As one of Iowa’s fastest-growing communities, Altoona deserves contractors who deliver quality work and honest service.
Our Mission
Provide the most transparent and honest experience possible for any construction project. Altoona homeowners deserve contractors who show up when promised, communicate clearly, and deliver quality work at fair prices.
Our Vision
To serve all of Central Iowa with dedicated construction services, from West Des Moines through Polk County and beyond.
- Achievement
Your Dream, Our Passion.
Since 2020, over 1,000 Central Iowa homeowners have trusted us to build their dreams, and it shows.
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Skilled Workers
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Quality Construction at the Right Price.
Additions
Based on Average Pricing in Altoona.
Starting From
$
300
Per sqft.
Features
- Additional Story
- Tornado Shelter
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Sunroom
- Bathroom
- Garage
- ADU
Kitchen Remodeling
Based on Average Pricing in Altoona.
Starting From
$
250
Per sqft.
Features
- Countertops
- Appliances
- Cabinetry
- Windows
- Islands
- Lights
Home Building
Based on Average Pricing in Altoona.
Starting From
$
150
per sqft.
Features
- Dream Build
- Multi-Family
- Tiny Home
- Spec Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQS About Home Construction & Remodeling in Altoona, IA
The City of Altoona Building Department handles permits online through their Citizenserve portal.
Contact them at (515) 957-5128 or email [email protected].
Inspection requests received between 8:00 and 11:00 am are scheduled for the following business day.
We coordinate all permits and inspections for our clients.
Altoona operates under the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC).
As of March 2025, the city adopted the 2024 UPC for plumbing and as of July 2025, the 2023 NEC for electrical.
The Building Department reviews plans, issues permits, and inspects all construction and remodeling work.
Altoona is one of Iowa’s fastest-growing cities, with population increasing over 107% since 2000.
The median home value is approximately $281,000 with median household income around $87,000.
New construction continues with significant building permit activity monthly.
The city offers a five-year residential tax abatement program.
Altoona is part of the Southeast Polk Community School District, one of Iowa’s finest 4-A systems and one of the fastest growing.
The district serves Altoona, Runnells, Mitchellville, and parts of Pleasant Hill and Des Moines.
Four elementary schools are located in Altoona: Altoona, Centennial, Clay, and Willowbrook.
Altoona is located immediately east of Des Moines, accessible via I-80.
The city is approximately 10 miles from downtown Des Moines, about a 15-minute drive. Busy Builders regularly serves Altoona from our West Des Moines base.
Altoona is home to Adventureland amusement park and Prairie Meadows, Iowa’s only horse racing track and largest gaming casino.
The city’s slogan is “Where the Prairie Meets the Park.”\
A Facebook data center opened in 2013, and the Outlets of Des Moines opened in 2017.
The city has a rich coal mining history dating to the early 1900s.
- Our Articles
Home Building & Remodeling Blogs for Altoona, IA
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Custom Home in Iowa in 2026?
Building a custom home in Iowa gives you complete control over your living space, from the foundation to the finishing touches. This guide breaks down every cost you can...
Deck Building in Des Moines: Design Ideas and Maintenance Tips For Every Season
Transforming a home is easier with expert insights on deck building and patio installation. Learn simple steps to create outdoor spaces that impress.
Maximizing Small Bathroom Spaces: Remodeling Tips for Iowa Homes
Transforming a home is easier with expert insights on deck building and patio installation. Learn simple steps to create outdoor spaces that impress.