There are Christmas presents, and then there are big-time Christmas presents. Spending Christmas in your first home ranks pretty high on that list. And that’s just what Tia and Cody Knapp gifted themselves with for 2019.

Native Omahans, Tia and Cody met in middle school and started dating in high school at Millard South. They said their “I do’s” just over a year ago. Today, you’ll find Tia’s smiling salesperson’s face at American Eagle in Nebraska Crossings, which keeps her hustling during the holiday season. Meanwhile, Cody serves as assistant activities director for Parsons House Assisted Living and Memory Care, where he plans out fun activities such as games and field trips for the residents.

Given those hectic jobs, a quiet place to call home was high on their list. After a year-and-a-half living with his generous parents so they could save money, Tia and Cody took the plunge all first-time homebuyers do. They went online. Research can save a lot of time before you hit the pavement.

They knew what they wanted because they didn’t find their dream home after 10, 15 or 20 showings. They found it in the first house they looked at. Their Willow Creek home at 148th and Harrison fit their needs perfectly, so Tia and Cody signed on the dotted line and soon found themselves hosting their first Thanksgiving with the family.

Tia said buying a home was a huge learning experience. She advised other first-time homebuyers to find a caring realtor such as Gayla Leathers to listen to their needs and answer any questions. Tia found Gayla’s patience, understanding and willingness to help to be great added benefits. It’s a complicated process, and Tia said finding someone who knows what he or she is doing is key.

Tia, who loves to decorate by the seasons, has had the joy of decorating their first home for the biggest decorating season of them all—Christmas. If you want to celebrate a new home for the seasons in 2020, maybe you should be next to join the home hunt?

Tia and Cody Knapp, First-time Homeowners