Why this home stands out
Most homes this close to Norfolk Naval Shipyard are decades older, so a 2017 build at 2504 Des Moines Ave stands out immediately. You get modern construction standards — think tighter insulation, updated electrical, and contemporary finishes — without sacrificing the walkable, established neighborhood texture that older Portsmouth blocks are known for. At 1,856 square feet across four bedrooms, there's genuine room to spread out, and 2.1 baths means morning routines stay sane.
PRENTIS PARK and the Portsmouth real estate market
Portsmouth is one of Hampton Roads' most underrated cities — a working waterfront community with deep Navy roots, a revitalized downtown, and neighborhoods that feel genuinely lived-in. The area around Des Moines Ave sits within easy reach of the Elizabeth River waterfront and the historic Truxtun district, giving the block a sense of place you don't manufacture. Families comparing homes for sale in Portsmouth often notice how quickly the city grows on them: the commutes are short, the neighbors tend to stay, and the access to the broader Hampton Roads metro — Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk — is remarkably straightforward. Portsmouth homes for sale in this zip code tend to attract buyers who want proximity to the shipyard without the congestion of larger submarkets, and 2504 Des Moines Ave sits squarely in that sweet spot.
What's nearby
Daily life is easy here. Lansing Park is just 0.2 miles away for a quick walk or an afternoon outside, and Truxtun Historic District — a genuine neighborhood landmark — is half a mile down the road. Hungry? Jem's 'Take A Plate,' Hott Platz, and Cuzzoz Kitchen are all within 0.2 miles, making weeknight dinners a low-effort decision. Callaghan Gym and Fitness Center is 0.6 miles out, and Brikhouse Boxing and Fitness is under a mile if you prefer a boxing-style workout. Mariner's Reef Cafe is 0.7 miles away for a proper coffee stop, and quick-trip errands are covered by a Dollar General and a BP both within half a mile.
For different buyers
For military families relocating
Three minutes to Norfolk Naval Shipyard and four minutes to USCG Base Portsmouth — the commute math here is hard to beat. A VA loan pairs naturally with a 2017 build, and the four-bedroom layout gives you the flexibility that PCS moves demand. Families comparing homes for sale in 23704 will find this address checks the boxes that matter most: short drive times, solid square footage, and a neighborhood with real staying power.
For first-time buyers
A 2017 build means fewer surprises in the early years of ownership — systems are modern, and the learning curve of older-home maintenance is much gentler. Four bedrooms and 1,856 square feet give you room to grow into, not just into. The walkable access to parks, restaurants, and everyday errands makes the transition from apartment life feel natural, and Portsmouth's price point relative to neighboring cities gives first-time buyers meaningful room to build equity.
More buyer questions
How far is 2504 Des Moines Ave from Norfolk Naval Shipyard?
Norfolk Naval Shipyard is approximately 3 minutes by car from 2504 Des Moines Ave — one of the shortest base commutes you'll find in the Portsmouth market. That proximity makes this address especially practical for active-duty personnel assigned to the shipyard.
What school zone does 2504 Des Moines Ave fall in?
Buyers specifically looking at homes for sale zoned for Norcom High School and homes for sale zoned for Brighton Elementary School will want to verify current Portsmouth Public Schools zoning directly, as boundaries can shift — but this address has historically fallen within those attendance zones.
Is 2504 Des Moines Ave in a flood zone?
Flood zone designation for this address is covered in the FloodRisk tile on this page, which pulls current FEMA map data. We recommend reviewing that section and discussing flood insurance options with your agent before making any decisions.
How old is the home at 2504 Des Moines Ave?
The home was built in 2017, making it a relatively modern construction by Portsmouth standards. That means buyers benefit from contemporary building codes, more energy-efficient systems, and generally lower near-term maintenance expectations compared to the area's older housing stock.
Does 2504 Des Moines Ave have a garage?
Garage details for this property are best confirmed against the current listing data or during a scheduled walkthrough — square footage and layout information is available above, and your agent can clarify parking specifics during a showing.
Tom and Dariya Milan at LPT Realty know Portsmouth inside and out — reach out to get a straight answer on this address and what it could mean for your next move.
