Where Farming Meets Community: Inside the Middlebrook Agrihood
As the demand grows for communities that offer more than just homes — where food, farming, and connection to the land and neighbors are central — projects like Middlebrook are starting to redefine both agriculture and real estate development.
Located just outside Des Moines, Middlebrook is a 540-acre, mixed-use agrihood that integrates a 20-acre organic farm, diverse housing types, walkable neighborhoods, and community gathering spaces.
Photo credit: Middlebrook
From incentivizing regenerative stewardship of farmland to agrihood development, Steve Bruere shares his expertise
In this episode of The Regenerative Real Estate Podcast, host Neal Collins sits down with Steve Bruere, President of Peoples Company, to explore an ambitious agrihood development taking shape in America today: Middlebrook Farm in Cumming, Iowa.
Steve brings a unique perspective to this conversation, combining his deep expertise in farmland brokerage with his personal commitment to creating a long-term, place-based community that support both people and the land.
Throughout the episode, Neal and Steve discuss:
The current state of f arming and how it relates to regenerative agriculture across the U.S.
Why demand for farm-centered communities is rapidly growing
How Middlebrook came to life — from concept to execution
The challenges of building an agrihood and best practices
Whether you're an investor, developer, farmer, or simply curious about the growing intersection of real estate and regenerative agriculture, this conversation offers valuable insights into how we can build communities that prioritize stewardship, connection, and resilience.
Great nugget
Steve points out that most homeowners aren’t eager to leave their low-interest mortgages — unless something truly compelling pulls them.
At Middlebrook, that pull is clear: a vibrant community with great architecture centered around a working farm, rich with cultural amenities and a deep sense of place.
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