Despite growing up in a subdivision, Nebraska native Davis Behle dreamed about country living since childhood. When he met his future wife, Lori, in college and realized they shared a similar aspiration, the two set out to bring their vision to life. A few years later, they partnered with Rural 1st to purchase Lori’s grandfather’s white farmhouse on a 10-acre homestead.
They’ve since spent time remodeling to make the home their own while embracing the generations of history that came before them. From patching up the holes where posters had hung in her aunt’s former bedroom to finding her mom’s old 4-H ribbons in the back of a desk, the couple has been soaking in every second.
“It’s been so surreal!” she exclaimed. “Revitalizing the house and reliving so many special memories with relatives who spent time here growing up has been incredible. The experience has really brought our family closer.”
Rural 1st brings families Closer to What Matters® through products and services that understand the nuances of lending for rural living.
“We worked with a handful of different people at Rural 1st. Each of them made us feel informed and supported every step of the way,” Davis explained. “From our initial outreach all the way through the inspection, everything was tailored to meet our needs.”
Looking ahead, the Behles plan to continue expanding on the family legacy and purchase the remaining farmland around the homestead.
We're grateful to get to carry on the baton,” Lori said. “Our daughter will be the fourth generation with a connection to this home. We can’t wait to watch her grow up here.”
Davis also emphasized the importance of fostering a strong sense of community with their friends and neighbors as they continue to settle. Working on several projects—from growing produce to sell at the local farmers market to planning a barn remodel to host events—Davis finds inspiration in knowing they’re living out the dream they’ve pursued for so long.
“It’s easy to get caught up in all the things we still need to do,” he shared. “So, I often remind myself to take a step back and realize the beauty that’s unfolding. We’re on an adventure. There’s so much more to come.”
Looking for help fulfilling a rural dream of your own? Connect with a loan officer to get started today.
