Top 5 Markets for Nebraska Real Estate Investors in 2024

Real estate investors from across the country are targeting rental properties in Nebraska to build rental portfolios.  Nebraska is a current favorite of real estate investors for both cash flow and appreciation! Nebraska’s thriving market offers ample opportunities for real estate investors to build rental portfolios and benefit from the state’s promising investment potential.  Easy Street Capital is proud to be a leading provider of rental loans for investors looking to build rental portfolios in the Cornhusker State!

 

Loans for Investment Properties in Nebraska

 

When it comes to real estate investing in Nebraska, there are many underrated markets and rental loans to choose from.  For investors that like to get their hands dirty, rehabbing run-down properties, hard money renovation loans are a perfect choice!  These loans allow you to buy a property quickly and finance your rehab costs as well!  Once you are done, you can either “flip” the property for a quick profit or pursue the BRRRR Strategy by renting it out and then refinancing into a long-term, low-rate DSCR loan!

 

EasyFix                     EasyRent

 

Investment property loans offer valuable assistance to real estate investors, especially when acquiring turnkey rental properties that are ready for immediate occupancy. Turnkey properties, whether single-family homes or multi-unit dwellings, provide a convenient option for generating both rental income and long-term appreciation. By securing long-term DSCR loans with fixed interest rates, investors can take advantage of increasing rents and property values to steadily accumulate wealth and achieve financial growth through real estate investing.

 

Where To Invest In Real Estate In Nebraska

 

Nebraska is a great market for real estate investment properties because of its multiple solid, often overlook options. Omaha is the largest city in the state along with having around 1.5 million residents in the greater Omaha area. Lincoln is the state capital and home to the flagship university, the University of Nebraska. Bellevue is the third largest city in Nebraska and is one of the state’s second-oldest settlements. Grand Island is in the southern part of Nebraska and is home to 85,000 people. Lastly, Ogallala is a quaint small town with extremely rich history that brings in visitors for weekend vacations.

 

    

 

Omaha

 

Omaha, located in eastern Nebraska, is a dynamic city with a population of over 485,000. It is home to several prominent educational institutions, including the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University. The city offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with attractions like the Joslyn Art Museum and the Omaha Performing Arts Center. Real estate investors can explore opportunities in the student housing market as well as long-term rental properties. Additionally, Omaha hosts popular events such as the College World Series and the Omaha Summer Arts Festival, making it an attractive destination for short-term rentals.

 

According to Redfin, the February 2024 average sales price of a home in Omaha was just $255,000.  Coupled with Zillow that the average March 2024 market rent in Omaha is $1,250, cash flow from investment properties in Omaha is likely to be robust. 

 

Omaha’s thriving economy and diverse range of attractions make it an ideal market for real estate investors seeking opportunities in both single-family and multifamily properties. Its strategic location, close to major metropolitan areas like Kansas City and Sioux Falls, further enhances its appeal. With a relatively low cost of living and a robust rental demand, Omaha presents a promising investment landscape for those aiming to achieve attractive cash flow and steady returns.

 

 

Lincoln

 

Lincoln is a rapidly expanding city in the heart of the state with a population exceeding 292,000. It serves as the capital and offers a vibrant community with diverse economic opportunities. The city boasts a thriving downtown area featuring a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that attract both locals and visitors. Home to major employers like HobbyTown USA, Hayneedle Inc, and Eagle Raceway Racetracks, Lincoln boasts a low unemployment rate indicating a positive outlook for rental properties given the solid base of renters. Real estate investors can tap into the steady demand for long-term rentals in Lincoln, while events like the Lincoln Arts Festival and the Nebraska State Fair present opportunities for short-term rental income.

 

The University of Nebraska, with its enrollment of approximately 25,000 students, creates a consistent demand for short-term rentals and student housing throughout the year. Real estate investors who focus on niche strategies, such as catering to the university student population, can tap into a lucrative market in and around the University of Nebraska, maximizing their investment potential.

 

The Lincoln housing market demonstrates the benefits of sustained and manageable growth. Strong fundamentals, including low unemployment, robust job growth, and controlled foreclosures, contribute to the market’s sustainability. According to RealtyTrac, the median price of a home in Lincoln is $270,900, below the national average, offering affordability and steady appreciation. The market also exhibits increased equity gains for homeowners, providing future options. With a thriving local economy and increased market demand, Lincoln real estate investing presents a compelling opportunity. 

 

 

Bellevue

 

Located in eastern Nebraska, Bellevue is a vibrant city with a population of over 50,000, making it one of the largest in the state. The city boasts a diverse economy, with industries ranging from healthcare to education and manufacturing. Bellevue is also renowned for its historical significance and cultural attractions, such as the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and the Bellevue Berry Farm. Real estate investors can take advantage of the strong rental market, catering to both long-term residents and visitors. Bellevue’s city website provides a helpful guide to explore the city’s historical sites, making it an appealing destination for history enthusiasts.

 
Bellevue presents an excellent opportunity for real estate investors, particularly those looking for affordable options and strong cash flow. With a median sales price of just $262,500, according to Redfin as of February 2024, and an average market rent of $1,325, according to Zillow, investors can expect robust returns on their investment properties.

 

Surrounded by scenic landscapes and embraced by a strong community spirit, Bellevue offers a multitude of opportunities for both residents and visitors. The city’s thriving tourism industry, coupled with its proximity to stunning natural attractions like Fontenelle Forest and the Missouri River, creates a captivating environment for outdoor enthusiasts. For savvy real estate investors, Bellevue presents an enticing prospect for short-term rental properties, with the potential for attractive returns. Additionally, Bellevue’s growing technological sector contributes to its economic vitality, offering a range of employment opportunities and fueling further development. With charming attractions such as the Bellevue Berry Farm and Bellevue Downtown District, the city exudes an irresistible charm that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

 

 

Grand Island

 

The bustling city of Grand Island serves as a regional hub for Hall County.  This city has a sizable population of 53,000 people. Major employers, include JBS USA, Chief Industries, and Hornady Manufacturing. With a diversified economy that encompasses industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture, Grand Island offers a stable foundation for both residents and real estate investors.

 

The city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, along with its abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, contribute to its appeal. Grand Island is an ideal market for real estate investors, with a steady demand for rental properties driven by young professionals and families. The presence of these thriving industries and strong employment opportunities further solidifies Grand Island as a prime location for renters seeking a stable and prosperous community. Grand Island has been a steadily appreciating housing market with Redfin reporting a median sale price of $227,000 for February 2024, a 10.7% year-over-year growth.

 

Grand Island is strategically located in the heart of the state, serving as a transportation hub with excellent connectivity. The city is intersected by major highways, including Interstate 80, and is home to a regional airport. This advantageous location provides easy access to various markets and enhances the potential for real estate investors to attract residents to their properties.

 

With its vibrant community events, flourishing recreational opportunities, and a dynamic arts and culture scene, Grand Island, Nebraska, offers an appealing market for real estate investors. By leveraging the city’s attractions and meeting the rental demands of its diverse population, investors can tap into a thriving rental market and potentially secure favorable returns on their investments.

 

 

Ogallala

 

Nestled by the picturesque shores of Lake McConaughy in western Nebraska, Ogallala offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and recreational opportunities. Known for its Old West charm and scenic landscapes, the city attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. With its proximity to Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area and its array of water activities, Ogallala serves as an appealing destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts from neighboring states such as Colorado and Wyoming. The city’s rental market benefits from steady rates and occupancies, with peak seasons during the summer months and events like the Ogallala Indian Summer Rendezvous and the Keith County Fair bringing in additional visitors and potential rental income.

 

AirDNA, a leading data provider for the short-term rental industry, gives Ogallala an “investability” score of 97/100 with average daily rates of $239.70 and monthly projected monthly revenues of just over $4,000. Investors can capitalize on high earning potential, with the potential to generate an impressive annual income of $44,000. Ogallala’s exceptional AirDNA rating signals a golden opportunity for investors to thrive in this lucrative market.

 

Ready to Get Started?

 

Ready to invest in real estate in Nebraska?  Easy Street Capital is Nebraska’s best provider of rental loans for both hard money rehabs and long-term rental properties.

 

 

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Jane Kleintop
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