Saratoga

One of the most compelling reasons to consider older homes when house hunting is having the opportunity to discover turn-of-the-20th-century architectural styles up close that you may not have before. One of the most enticing home styles you’ll find plenty of in Saratoga is the American Foursquare. A uniquely American concept, these roomy and well-balanced homes were created in response to elaborate and somewhat pricey Victorians. In the 1890s, American Foursquares were touted as “modern” for their space-maximizing design. Noted for two floors of four rooms of essentially equal size, most have no long central hallway, Foursquares maximized space and offered an open design that appealed to homebuyers tired of the fussy details and smaller rooms of Victorian homes. Foursquares often feature built-in bookshelves and large symmetrical windows. Enclosed front porches run the full width of the home. Defining exterior features include a notably square design and a central attic dormer window.

Today, you’ll find plenty of American Foursquare homes in the tiny community of Saratoga, many of which have been well-preserved and carefully updated. Most have 1,500 square feet or more. Modernized and fully finished basements add to your usable space without significantly increasing the listing price. You’ll find American Foursquares from around 1910 with original hardwood floors for $165,000 to $195,000. Saratoga also offers two-story, three-bedroom cottages from the 1920s for around $170,000. According to Realtor Tina Sempeck, with eXp Realty, “This is a thriving community, and people like to buy here because properties hold their value. Even realtors have gotten into buying homes around here because they know these homes are great investments.”

Local public schools boat rich histories but plenty of modern updates, much like neighboring homes. Miller Park Elementary is rated C- by Niche and serves students in pre-K through 5th grade. It also offers an after-school program and a notably active Parent Teach Organization. McMillan Magnet Middle has state-of-the-art technology, living laboratories, computer labs, and an outstanding indoor and outdoor athletic complex. Omaha North Magnet High (also known as North High School) has a B-minus rating from Niche and focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). North High is one of many historic schools in the area; it still operates in its original building from 1924.

Bluff View Park is a tiny pocket park of just over an acre that offers open space and a picnic area. Nearby Miller Park’s 78.2 acres include a playground, ball fields, a swimming pool, a lagoon with catch and release fishing and a 9-hole golf course. A popular sprayground helps keep kids cool in the summer months.

Dining options around Saratoga include fan-favorite, long-standing restaurants. Nite Hawkes Café has been around since 1942 and is still owned by the same founding family, the Hawkes. It is considered by many to be the longest-running restaurant in Omaha. Made-to-order breakfast, lunch and takeout are served every day except Monday. Try The Stacker for breakfast or their Pork Tendermelt, a local favorite, for lunch. Tilley’s Stick Burner BBQ receives great reviews for its brisket and its barbecue. It also offers mobile catering.

Styles of Evolution is a black- and veteran-owned fashion-forward clothing store located on Ohio Street, that features suits, formal wear, and dress shoes. Haberdash ONE offers new and vintage clothing and consignment for men, women and kids, as well as an extensive collection of hoodies and athletic wear. Family Fare Supermarket enjoys a loyal following not only for its fresh produce and well-stocked shelves but also for its digital and in-store coupons and its pick-up and delivery services. When you’re in a hurry and need something quick, nearby Chubb Foods has convenience items as well as local fresh fish and fried chicken.

House hunting can be challenging, but when you discover the beauty and spaciousness of American Foursquares in historic Saratoga, you’ll likely find that the reward was well worth the hunt.

Written By

Sarah Albiston

Photography Contributed By

Seth Johanson

Video By

Mary Desmond