When we started Investors Realty in May of 1975, we weren’t exactly sure what the future would hold. But what we did know was that we wanted to build something of our own—something rooted in values we believed in. After a few rounds of tennis and scotch, we decided to take control of our destiny and create a business where integrity, teamwork, and putting the client first weren’t just ideas but everyday practices.

The Early Years

Starting a business during a recession was not easy. We didn’t have deep financial reserves or a long list of clients to rely on. We worked hard to earn every relationship and every deal. Competing with well-established firms made those first years tough. But we were determined to carve out a reputation built on honesty and straight dealing, and that approach paid off.

For the first year, keeping the doors open was the priority. But little by little, we established strong relationships, gained trust, and built a business that was more than just a brokerage—it was a place where people knew they would be treated fairly and professionally. We tried to set ourselves apart by delivering a higher level of service, one that added value for our clients.

A Different Omaha

Over the decades, Omaha has grown, and so has our industry. Back in the 1970s, commercial real estate was a relatively small field, maybe 20 full-time brokers in the city. Today, the number is in the hundreds.

We’ve seen technology, education, and institutional investment reshape the market, and we’ve embraced those changes while staying true to our founding values.

One thing that we’re proud to say has remained constant is our focus on education and mentorship. Having seasoned brokers seek to continuously improve and then guide new agents has been a cornerstone of our success. Not only does it create a culture of learning, but it ensures that every client gets the highest level of service possible.

Company Culture

From the very beginning, our philosophy was simple: take care of the client, and the commission will come. That approach shaped how we operated and how we built trust. We never worked only for the paycheck. We worked then, and agents now still do, to make sure our clients have the best possible outcome.

We also believed in financial discipline. We didn’t spend money unless we had the cash. That conservative approach kept us stable through difficult times and allowed us to grow responsibly. Looking back, those principles were key to building a business that continues to succeed and grow.

50 Years Later

It is humbling to see how far Investors Realty has come, from initial struggles to keep the lights on to now multi-million dollar deals. More than anything, we are grateful: grateful for our clients, who have trusted us over the years; grateful for our teammates, who have made Investors Realty what it is today; and grateful for the relationships that have made this journey so rewarding.

Our message to those carrying the company forward is simple: keep the culture alive. Keep learning. Take care of your clients first, and success will follow. The current ownership and management team is doing just that—building on the strong foundation we set while continuing to evolve and improve. We couldn’t be more excited to see where the next 50 years take Investors Realty.

-Steve & Jerry

This article appeared in our company newsletter in June of 2025. Please click here to download the entire newsletter.