How can one casual conversation change a city's skyline?
In this conversation, Tim Rypma, President of Rypma Properties, shares his journey from a college spark of interest in real estate to becoming one of Des Moines' most influential developers. Known for leading the 40-acre Market District redevelopment, Tim offers an inside look at how this transformative project will reshape the city's urban core with new residential, commercial, and office spaces. He also reflects on the challenges of historic preservation, why community collaboration drives his projects, and the balance between patience in development and pursuing bold, large-scale visions.
🏗️ 5 Takeaways with Tim Rypma
• How a simple conversation with his college landlord sparked Tim's lifelong path in real estate development.
• Why historic redevelopment projects laid the foundation for Tim's vision—and how they connect past character with future growth.
• How community and collaboration drive every Rypma Properties project, shaping spaces that strengthen Des Moines.
• Why patience matters in development—and how Tim's five-year stabilization outlook underscores the need for long-term vision.
• How balancing large-scale projects with personal passions like fly fishing keeps Tim grounded while shaping the future of the Market District.
👤 About Tim Rypma:
Tim Rypma is President of Rypma Properties, a Des Moines–based real estate firm specializing in historic-preservation redevelopment, urban infill, and mixed-use projects.
His portfolio includes over 500,000 square feet of downtown retail, office, and residential space, with landmark projects like the Market District redevelopment, 219 East Grand, and the Carpenter Paper Warehouse conversion.
Beyond his developments, Tim serves on the Urban Design Review Board and co-founded the Iowa Real Estate Developers Association. A Des Moines native, Tim is deeply community-focused, raising his family locally, giving back civically, and enjoying the outdoors through fly fishing, skiing, and family adventures.
Contact Info: Website | www.rypma.propeties