Building a Dream Home – May 2025

Your Dream Home Is Waiting to Be Built! Building a home from the ground up is a bold endeavor—one that demands vision, meticulous planning, and an unwavering commitment to quality. While the sheer scale of the project can be daunting, the good news is this: you don’t have to navigate it alone. In this exclusive feature, we highlight the professionals who specialize in turning ideas into addresses. The journey begins with a conversation—but what follows is a carefully choreographed process involving site selection, architectural design, material sourcing, construction management, interior styling, and often, complex financial structuring. Each step requires a team that not only understands the technical aspects of building, but also respects the personal significance of the endeavor.

In a competitive real estate landscape, the decision to build rather than buy speaks volumes. It reflects a desire not just for ownership, but for authorship—for a space that aligns precisely with your needs, your taste, and your long-term goals. And with the right team behind you, the process can be just as rewarding as the final result.

Everything you need to begin that journey is right here. Because your home should be more than a destination: it should be the most extraordinary chapter of your story yet. Increasingly, homebuyers are discovering that the most fulfilling path to their dream home begins not with a national developer, but right in their own backyard.

Across the region, a growing network of architects, builders, designers, and artisans are proving that local expertise isn’t just a perk—it’s a powerful advantage. Building a custom home is a deeply personal process, requiring more than just technical skill. It starts with a dream—an idea of how you want to live, work, and grow. But transforming that dream into a living space requires the collaboration of professionals who understand not just your vision, but also the local landscape: the climate, the permitting process, the neighborhoods, and the community character.

 

Budget with Centris Federal Credit Union

At Centris Federal Credit Union (centrisfcu.org), the construction lending and mortgage departments partner to assist and guide clients with building their dream home. Centris understands how overwhelming this process can be, and their knowledgeable team is dedicated to supporting their clients every step of the way. Helping a client understand their budget and what they qualify for on the financing side early on in the home building process is crucial. The more prepared a client can be when they meet with the builder to finalize the contract for their new home build helps create a more positive experience all around. Centris’ residential construction department consists of two individuals with over 65 years of combined experience. This small but mighty team of professionals manage all aspects of the construction loan process and take a lot of pride in delivering a high level of service to each and every client they work with.

 

McKean’s Floor to Ceiling Keeps You Covered

McKean’s Floor to Ceiling (mckeans.com) in Omaha, NE, offers an extensive array of flooring options featuring some of the most innovative brands in the home design industry. A family owned and operated company, McKean’s Floor to Ceiling was founded in 1962, and takes pride in providing affordable flooring solutions focusing on high-quality materials. They began with sheet vinyl floors and laminate countertops and have grown to offer a robust selection of products and services to help you design the home of your dreams. They specialize in comprehensive solutions to help you remodel your kitchen and bathroom, including countertops, cabinets, and more, employing their own installers and using licensed plumbers and electricians to ensure quality work that you will love.

What truly distinguishes McKean’s is their personalized, consultative approach. They understand that no two homes—or homeowners—are alike. That’s why they place a strong emphasis on listening first. Their design experts work closely with each client to understand their vision, preferences, and budget, helping to craft a plan that reflects both practical needs and personal style. Whether you’re embarking on a full renovation or simply refreshing a single room, McKean’s guides you through every step of the process—from inspiration to installation.

In an industry where one-size-fits-all solutions are all too common, McKean’s Floor to Ceiling stands out for their genuine commitment to customization, quality, and community. Their long-standing reputation as a reliable, family-owned business is not just a testament to their years in operation—it’s a reflection of the trust they’ve earned and the relationships they continue to build across generations of Omaha homeowners.

 

Forsman’s Finest – Custom Decks That Expand Life beyond the Walls

For many homeowners, the true luxury of owning a home lies just beyond the back door. Whether it’s a sprawling backyard, a cozy patio, or a quiet garden nook, outdoor spaces offer a personal escape—an opportunity to relax, recharge, and connect with nature without leaving home. But when a yard is constantly muddy or lacks shelter from the elements, that outdoor dream can quickly become underused potential. Forsman’s Finest (forsmansfinest.com), a trusted name in custom deck construction, helps homeowners reclaim and reimagine their outdoor areas—transforming unused or uncomfortable spaces into beautiful, functional extensions of the home. Specializing in tailor-made decks and patio covers, the team at Forsman’s Finest offers more than construction—they provide freedom. Freedom to enjoy fresh air in comfort, to entertain guests in style, and to make the most of every square foot, rain or shine.

A new deck isn’t just an upgrade—it’s an investment in lifestyle. The professionals at Forsman’s Finest work closely with clients to design custom solutions that reflect individual preferences, complement architectural styles, and stay within budget. From simple, low-maintenance designs to elegant multi-level decks with built-in features, every project is built with craftsmanship and care.

Homeowners can also choose the materials that best suit their needs and priorities. For those seeking ease and durability, composite decking provides a sleek, weather-resistant solution that requires little upkeep. For those who appreciate the traditional charm of natural wood—and are willing to invest a bit of elbow grease in maintenance—a wood deck offers classic beauty and texture. In every case, Forsman’s Finest ensures the finished product feels like a seamless extension of the home.
But what truly sets this company apart is its customer-first approach. Building a deck should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Forsman’s Finest prides itself on a process that prioritizes communication, transparency, and minimal disruption. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to timeliness, the team takes every measure to ensure that the experience is as enjoyable as the result.

At its core, Forsman’s Finest is more than a construction company—it’s a creative partner in enhancing quality of life. By turning backyards into personalized havens, they help homeowners reconnect with the outdoors, add value to their property, and create new opportunities for leisure and connection.

For those ready to step outside and elevate their everyday living, Forsman’s Finest is ready to build the perfect space to do just that.

 

Tackle an Array of Electrical Issues with Langer Electric

Langer Electric (langerelectricne.com) offers comprehensive solutions that include routine repairs and maintenance, ensuring systems stay safe, efficient, and up to code. They provide detailed estimates upfront, helping clients plan their projects with clarity and confidence. Their services cover everything from fixture installations and panel updates to more specialized work such as personal and business camera systems, marine electrical services, and boat lift wiring—a rare expertise that speaks to their versatility.
Whether it’s wiring a new construction, retrofitting an older property, or simply handling the odds and ends of a remodel, the team is equipped and ready to support projects of all sizes. Langer Electric also specializes in basement finishing, a popular choice for homeowners looking to expand their living space while maintaining safe, energy-efficient electrical systems.

At the core of Langer Electric’s approach is a dedication to honest communication and top-tier workmanship. Their clients know they can count on straightforward guidance, responsive service, and results that exceed expectations.

In short, if it’s electrical—from the smallest residential job to the most complex commercial install—Langer Electric has it covered. Just give them a call, and they’ll take care of the rest.

 

Plan Ahead for Unexpected Changes

One of the first steps of building your dream home is consulting with your local bank to find the best options that fit your family’s budget. Union Bank & Trust (UBT) (ubt.com) has a wide range of options for their borrowers that include lot loans, construction loans, secondary market financing, and portfolio lending. They also offer local servicing to their borrowers. While Mortgage Loans Officer Tami Wolford says some people think that local servicing isn’t important, it makes a difference when the borrower has an issue on a payment or their escrow account. This is why it is much easier to work with someone local that cares, and UBT is known for their excellent customer service which extends well beyond your loan closing.

“There are often unexpected changes that occur during the construction process. Changes can be financed into the loan in some cases; however, borrowers should discuss this process with their builder and lender,” advised Tami. “Borrowers should also be cautious about opening new accounts or increasing their debt during the process of purchasing a home. Changes to their financial picture can impact loan approval. They want to position themselves in the best possible situation to obtain the lowest interest rates available.”

Local businesses know just how important your dream home is to you and they are prepared to help you every step of the way. Building your dream home should be exciting, not stressful, so trust in companies that share your passion for craftsmanship, innovation and uncompromising quality. Help yourself and streamline the building of your dream home with companies you can trust.

 

Keep Your Yard Private

Your family and home need safe yards and beautiful spaces, both of which can be accomplished with one of the fences from Empire Fence. You can choose between wood fence, aluminum fence, vinyl fence, chain link fence, and even composite fence materials for a nearly endless array of styles and options.

Across the United States, Empire Netting and Fence (empire-fence.com) specializes in supplying and installing commercial netting projects and fencing solutions. Based in Waverly, NE and founded in 2009 by Matt Warner, Empire has grown to become the go-to company for sports, golf, and netting as well as high quality fence and access control systems in Nebraska, Iowa and across the continental United States. Their fencing services extend from residential and commercial fence installations, wood deck and fence staining and high security gate automation and access control. In addition to installation services, Empire Fence can provide our customers with windscreen, safety padding, sun sails, and more.

What makes their company stand above the competition? Their extensive knowledge and experience in the industry and our great ability to deliver high quality products with exceptional customer service at a reasonable cost. Empire Fence loves to bring your ideas to life, no matter how big or small, they enjoy the challenge! Let them help you create your best fencing or netting solution because…above it all, from backyards to business space, from little league to major league, from concept to completion, your project is their priority!

 

Transform Your Yard into an Aquatic Paradise

Established in 2021, Acapulco Pool & Spa (acapulcopoolsspa.com) provides pool installation, above-ground pools, in-ground pools, semi-in-ground pools, pool services and repair, pool opening, pool closing, pool maintenance and repair, pool heaters, pool additions and remodeling, and custom concrete spas to the Lincoln, NE area. Acapulco Pool & Spa LLC understands that creating your perfect backyard retreat is an investment. They are excited to offer financing options to help you bring your pool and spa visions to life. Their commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond just expert craftsmanship—they want to ensure that the path to your dream outdoor space is as smooth as possible. With their financing solutions, you can enjoy custom designs tailored to your preferences, luxury features within reach, flexible payment options, professional installation by experienced specialists, high-quality materials for lasting enjoyment, and more. Don’t let budget constraints hold you back from transforming your property. Get in touch with Acapulco Pool & Spa to learn how their financing options can bring your vision to life with the quality and care you deserve.

For many, the idea of a dream home remains just that—a dream. It often feels like a distant, unattainable vision, tucked away in mood boards and wish lists. But what if that perfect home wasn’t so far out of reach? What if the design you’ve always imagined, the details you’ve envisioned, and the comfort you crave were actually within your budget—and your grasp?

Your dream home doesn’t have to stay a dream. With the right partners, the right plan, and the right mindset, it can become the beautiful, functional, and personal space you’ve always envisioned. Now is the time to take the first step. Let trusted local experts turn your ideas into architecture, and your dream into reality.
Building your home is about more than square footage or location—it’s about crafting an environment that mirrors your vision and values from the ground up. When you partner with professionals who understand your goals, the journey becomes an experience worth savoring. Every blueprint, every detail is a reflection of you. Because home isn’t just where life happens, it’s where your legacy begins.