Development Land to Build Multi-Family Building

[Ron C.]

Hello - I have a roughly 1-acre lot, zoned for residential that sits just off a new parkway in the Des Moines area. I've had it for about 10 years, and have decided to finally do something with it. I currently own several single family units in the area, so this will be my first foray into the multi-family arena. 

Does anyone have any advice or insight into the building process for a multi-family dwelling? How does one find plans that will fit the specs for the property with respect to setbacks? Do you contact an architect? Builders? Any advice is welcome.

Regards.