Why More Parents Are Buying Townhomes for Their College Kids Instead of Renting

Here’s Why More Families Are Buying Maintenance-Free Rowhomes Over Rentals

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If your student is headed to Creighton University, UNO, or UNMC in Omaha, one of the first big decisions is where they’ll live — and whether renting student housing is really the best long-term option.

While traditional student apartments in Omaha are usually thought of as the go-to, an increasing number of out-of-state families are taking a different approach: buying new construction, maintenance-free townhomes near campus. And the benefits are hard to ignore.

Here’s why more parents are choosing to invest in Omaha real estate rather than sign another lease:


1. A Smarter Financial Move Than Renting

With Omaha rent prices climbing — especially in high-demand midtown neighborhoods near UNMC and Creighton — renting can become an expensive, short-term solution. Multi-year leases and annual rent hikes offer no return on your investment.

On the other hand, buying a home for your college student offers long-term value. You’re not just covering housing costs — you’re building equity in a growing, stable real estate market. Properties near Omaha’s major universities have seen steady appreciation, turning a simple housing decision into a potential financial win long after graduation. Major midtown and downtown developments (like UNMC’s $2 billion expansion project) are expected to further drive buyer demand to the area.


2. Built-In Lifestyle and Safety

Today’s families want more than just four walls and a bed. Safety, lifestyle, and proximity to school matter more than ever.

At Elmwood Rows, for example, each unit includes:

  • 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms — perfect for roommates or visiting family
  • A private 2-car garage — hard to find near campus
  • A walkable, tree-lined neighborhood near Elmwood Park, with quick access to downtown, Blackstone, and Aksarben Village
  • Thoughtful, secure design with low-maintenance living that keeps your student focused on school — not repairs or landlord issues
Elmwood Rows: The only new construction townhomes in Omaha’s Elmwood Park

3. True Lock-and-Leave Convenience

Maintenance-free means exactly that: no mowing, no snow removal, no hassle. A low monthly HOA covers the exterior upkeep, giving families peace of mind knowing their student is taken care of — even if they’re living independently for the first time.

And if your student’s schedule includes rotations, travel, or summers away, the lock-and-leave setup means they can come and go without stress or risk.


4. Ideal for Med School, Law School, or Post-Grad Life

UNMC med students, Creighton law students, and grad school families often stay in Omaha for 4+ years — which could make buying a home even more practical.

The extra bedrooms in these townhomes give your student the option to bring in a roommate, helping offset the mortgage while maintaining a high standard of living.

And after graduation? You have the option to:

  • Keep the home as a rental for long-term income
  • Sell it as an appreciated asset
  • Let your student stay and transition into post-grad life with stable housing

5. Curated, Turnkey Move-In Options

Out-of-state families often feel overwhelmed by the logistics of setting up a home from afar. Elmwood Rows offer a unique edge: personalized move-in services based on your needs. From furnishing options and design help to utility setup and move-in coordination, my team can help you get everything ready before your student even lands in Omaha.


Explore Elmwood Rows — New Construction Townhomes Starting at $459,900

Townhome at Omaha’s Elmwood Rows

Located in the heart of Omaha’s Elmwood Park neighborhood, Elmwood Rows is one of the only luxury new-build townhome communities within minutes of Creighton and UNMC.

With a limited number of rowhomes remaining, now is the time to explore this opportunity before your student’s next semester starts.

Want to Tour or Learn More?

If you’re considering buying a home in Omaha for your student, let’s talk! As a local real estate agent who works with many UNMC and Creighton families, I’d love to help you explore your options and handle the process — especially if you’re buying from out of state.

📩 Contact me today to get started!

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