Real Estate Information Archive

In the heart of the Midwest, Omaha residents are always looking for innovative ways to enhance their living spaces. As we spend more time indoors, the impact of our home environment on our well-being has never been more crucial. Enter the world of Circadian Rhythm Lighting – a revolutionary approach to interior design that's brightening homes and lives across the Cornhusker State.

Understanding Your Inner Clock

Before we discuss home lighting in detail, let's clarify what circadian rhythm actually means. Circadian rhythm is your body's internal clock, regulating sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, eating habits, and other bodily functions. It is intrinsically linked to the natural light-dark cycle of your environment.

Our circadian rhythms can easily become thrown off balance in our modern world of artificial lighting and screen time. Intentional lighting design offers a way to realign our internal clocks with the natural world.

The Bright Side of Circadian Lighting

Implementing circadian lighting in your Omaha home isn't just about following a trend but investing in your health and well-being. Here are some illuminating benefits:

1. Sweet Dreams Are Made of This: Proper lighting routines can help you fall asleep faster and wake up more easily, improving overall sleep quality.
2. Morning Glory: Exposure to bright light in the morning can boost your mood and energy levels, helping you tackle those busy Omaha days with gusto.
3. Spotlight on Productivity: Whether you're working from home or helping kids with homework, circadian lighting can enhance focus, concentration, and overall productivity.
4. A Brighter Outlook: Supporting a healthy immune system and potentially reducing symptoms of depression, circadian lighting contributes to a sunnier disposition all year round.

​

Bringing Circadian Lighting Home to Omaha

Ready to light up your life? Here's how you can implement circadian lighting in your Omaha home:

1. Let the Sunshine In: Maximize natural light by incorporating large windows or skylights. This is especially crucial for taking advantage of Omaha's sunny days, even during our chilly winters.
2. Dim and Dimmer: Install dimmable lights to adjust intensity throughout the day. Mimic the natural light cycle by brightening in the morning and softening in the evening.
3. Warm Up, Cool Down: Choose warm-toned lights for living areas and bedrooms, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for Nebraska nights. Save cool-toned lights for home offices or study areas where alertness is key.
4. Get Smart: Invest in smart lighting systems that adjust light levels and color temperatures automatically. Imagine your home gradually waking up with you on those early Omaha mornings!
5. Seasonal Adjustments: Given Omaha's distinct seasons, consider adjusting your lighting routines. Brighter lights are needed during our shorter winter days, while softer lighting complements long summer evenings.

​

A Brighter Future for Omaha Homes

As we continue to understand the impact of the environment on our health, circadian lighting offers a powerful tool for improving quality of life. Whether renovating an old Dundee charmer or building a new home in West Omaha, integrating circadian lighting principles can create a more comfortable, health-promoting environment.

Imagine waking up naturally, feeling refreshed as your bedroom slowly brightens, mimicking an Omaha sunrise. Picture yourself winding down in the evening, as your living room lights gradually shift to warmer tones, preparing your body for restful sleep. This is the promise of circadian lighting – not just illumination, but a pathway to better living.

As Omaha continues to grow and evolve, so will our home design approach. By embracing circadian lighting, we're not just changing bulbs – we're transforming our relationship with our homes and our health.

Ready to shed new light on your Omaha home? The Heim-Berg Team is here to illuminate your real estate journey. Whether looking for a home with great natural light or seeking advice on brightening your current space, we're here to help.

Contact the Heim-Berg Team, Omaha's Real Estate Experts, at 402-677-9024 or visit www.OmahaAreaLiving.com. 

Whether you're considering selling soon or want to boost your home's value, you're in the right place. Today, we're diving into the top 5 home updates giving Omaha residents the biggest bang for their buck in 2024. Let's get started!

Energy-Efficient Window Upgrades

With Omaha's weather swinging from scorching summers to frigid winters, energy-efficient windows are more crucial than ever. The latest triple-pane, argon-filled windows keep homes cozy while slashing energy bills.

ROI: 85-90%

Local Tip: Look for the ENERGY STAR certification tailored for the Midwest region. These windows are specifically designed to handle our unique climate.

Smart Home Technology Integration

In 2024, "smart" is the way to go. From advanced security systems to AI-powered thermostats, Omaha buyers are willing to pay a premium for tech-savvy and energy-efficient homes.

ROI: 80-85%

Omaha Trend: Local tech companies offer package deals for full smart home integrations.

Outdoor Living Space Enhancements

With more people working from home, outdoor spaces have become a hot commodity. Adding a deck, patio, or even a simple fire pit can significantly boost your home's appeal.

ROI: 75-80%

Local Insight: Consider adding a covered area to extend the usability of your outdoor space during Omaha's unpredictable weather.

Kitchen Updates with a Local Twist

The kitchen remains the heart of the home. In 2024, we're seeing a trend towards locally sourced materials and appliances designed for energy efficiency.

ROI: 70-75%

Omaha Special: Incorporate countertops made from Nebraska quarried stone or cabinetry from local craftsmen. It's eco-friendly and supports our local economy!

Basement Finishing with a Purpose

Finished basements have always been popular in Omaha, but in 2024, it's all about purposeful spaces. Think home gyms, entertainment rooms, or even small apartment units for multi-generational living.

ROI: 65-70%

Trend Alert: With the rise of remote work, many Omaha homeowners are turning their basements into stylish home offices. Some are even adding separate entrances for client meetings!

Bonus Tip: Flood-Resistant Features

Given Omaha's proximity to the Missouri River and recent climate patterns, homes with flood-resistant features are seeing a significant boost in value. Consider updates like:

• Elevated electrical systems
• Water-resistant flooring in basements
• Improved drainage systems

While the ROI varies, these features can be a significant selling point in flood-prone areas.

Remember, the best home updates increase your property value and enhance your quality of life while you're still living there. It's a win-win!

Are you thinking about making some updates but not sure where to start? Or are you curious about how these improvements might affect your home's value in the current Omaha market? We'd love to chat!

The Heim-Berg Team

Your Omaha Real Estate Experts

📞 402-677-9024

🌐 www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

P.S. The Omaha real estate market is always evolving. Don't hesitate to reach out for the most up-to-date advice tailored to your specific neighborhood and home. We're here to help you make the most of your investment!

Embarking on a home renovation project in Omaha, or anywhere for that matter, is an exciting endeavor that can significantly enhance the comfort, functionality, and value of your home. However, it's a process that requires careful planning and consideration to ensure that the outcome meets your expectations and stays within budget. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a successful home renovation in Omaha.

Define Your Goals

Before you start swinging hammers or tearing down walls, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve with your renovation. Are you looking to increase your home's resale value, improve its energy efficiency, or simply update the aesthetics? Defining your goals will help guide your decisions throughout the renovation process.

Budgeting and Financing

Once your goals are set, it's time to crunch some numbers. Establishing a realistic budget is essential to avoid overspending. Consider all aspects of the renovation, including materials, labor, permits, and any unexpected costs. If financing is needed, research your options early on to secure the necessary funds.

Hiring Professionals

For most homeowners, a renovation isn't a DIY project. Hiring the right professionals can make all the difference. Whether it's an architect, contractor, or interior designer, ensure they have a good reputation and the necessary qualifications. Don't hesitate to ask for references and examples of their previous work.

Understanding Permits and Regulations

Every city has its own set of building codes and regulations. In Omaha, you'll need to obtain the proper permits before starting your renovation. This might involve submitting detailed plans and having inspections conducted during and after the renovation. Failure to comply can result in fines and even having to undo completed work.

Design and Planning

With a team in place and a budget set, you can start the design and planning phase. This is where you'll make decisions about layout changes, materials, fixtures, and finishes. It's a good idea to prioritize projects based on your goals and budget, focusing on high-impact changes that align with your vision.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Renovations often come with surprises, especially in older homes. It's wise to allocate a portion of your budget for unforeseen issues like structural problems or outdated wiring. Being prepared for these hiccups will help keep your project on track.

Communication and Flexibility

Throughout the renovation process, maintain open communication with your contractors and designers. Be clear about your expectations but also be flexible. Some aspects of the renovation may not go as planned, and you'll need to make adjustments along the way.

Enjoying the Process

Despite the stress and mess, try to enjoy the renovation journey. Watching your home transform is a rewarding experience, and the final result should be a space that you love and that serves your needs for years to come.

In conclusion, a home renovation project in Omaha requires thoughtful preparation, from setting clear goals to dealing with the nitty-gritty of permits and regulations. By following these steps and seeking expert advice, you can embark on your renovation journey with confidence, knowing that you're well-prepared for the exciting transformation ahead.

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, and what better way to embrace this spirit than by embarking on home renovation projects that not only enhance the beauty and functionality of your Omaha home but also add value to it? As the frost of winter melts away, it's the perfect time to plan and execute renovations that will transform your living space. Here are some spring renovation projects to consider for your Omaha home:

1. Kitchen Upgrades

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and updating this space can have a significant impact on your home's value and appeal. Consider installing stainless steel appliances, which are not only sleek and modern but also durable and easy to clean. Homes in Omaha with updated kitchens, including stainless steel appliances, have been known to fetch a higher median list price.

2. Bathroom Refresh

A bathroom remodel can range from simple cosmetic updates to a complete overhaul. Replacing fixtures, adding new tiles, or even installing a new vanity can give your bathroom a fresh look. For a more extensive project, consider reconfiguring the layout to improve functionality.

3. Outdoor Living Enhancements

As the weather warms up, outdoor spaces become an extension of your home. Adding or expanding a patio can provide additional space for entertaining and relaxation. Incorporating features like built-in grills or fire pits can also make your outdoor area more inviting and increase your property's desirability.

4. Energy-Efficient Windows

Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones can improve your home's insulation, leading to lower energy bills and increased comfort. This upgrade not only contributes to your home's energy efficiency but also to its curb appeal.

5. Smart Home Technology

Integrating smart home technology, such as thermostats, lighting, and security systems, can increase your home's functionality and appeal to tech-savvy buyers. These systems offer convenience and can often be controlled remotely, making your home more modern and connected.

6. Basement Finishing

If you have an unfinished basement, spring is a great time to turn it into a functional living space. Whether you want an extra bedroom, a home office, or a recreational area, a finished basement can add significant square footage to your home's usable space.

7. Roof and Gutter Maintenance

Winter can be harsh on your home's exterior. Inspecting and repairing your roof and gutters can prevent water damage and improve the longevity of your home. While not as glamorous as other renovations, these maintenance tasks are crucial for protecting your investment.

8. Landscaping Makeover

First impressions matter, and landscaping is one of the first things people notice about your home. Spring is the ideal time to plant new flowers, shrubs, and trees, or to redesign your garden layout. A well-maintained landscape can enhance your home's aesthetic and increase its market value.

Before embarking on any renovation project, it's essential to consider the return on investment and how the changes will align with your lifestyle and the character of your neighborhood. By thoughtfully planning and executing these spring renovation projects, you can enjoy a refreshed living space and potentially increase your Omaha home's market value. Embrace the season of renewal by making your home the best it can be. 

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Maintaining a comfortable living environment at home is essential, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is at the heart of this comfort. However, when it comes to dealing with home HVAC companies in Omaha, homeowners are often faced with a complex set of pros and cons that can impact their decision-making process. This blog will delve deeper into these aspects, providing a more detailed exploration to assist homeowners in making well-informed decisions regarding their HVAC needs.

Extensive Expertise and Specialized Knowledge

The intricate nature of HVAC systems requires a level of expertise that only certified professionals can provide. These technicians undergo rigorous training and are well-versed in the latest HVAC technologies and methodologies. Their specialized knowledge is not just about fixing immediate problems but also about foreseeing potential issues and offering preemptive solutions, thus ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your system.

Commitment to Quality and Reliability

A hallmark of a reputable Omaha HVAC company is its commitment to quality. This is often demonstrated through the warranties and guarantees they offer, which serve as a testament to their confidence in the services provided. These warranties protect homeowners from additional expenses that may arise from unforeseen malfunctions or defects, ensuring that any investment in HVAC services is safeguarded.

Personalized Service and Tailored Solutions

Every home has its unique characteristics, and a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply to HVAC systems. Professional HVAC companies excel in providing customized solutions that consider various factors such as the home's layout, the local climate, and the homeowner's specific preferences and budget. This personalized service ensures that the HVAC system installed or serviced is optimally configured for the home's requirements.

Understanding the Financial Aspect

The cost of professional HVAC services can be a significant factor for many homeowners. It's important to understand that while the initial outlay may be higher than other options, the long-term savings through efficient operation, reduced repair costs, and energy savings can be substantial. Homeowners should consider these long-term financial benefits when evaluating the costs of professional HVAC services.

Availability and Scheduling Challenges

Timing is crucial when it comes to HVAC maintenance and repairs, especially during extreme weather conditions when the demand for services spikes. Homeowners may experience challenges in scheduling timely appointments. To mitigate this, it is advisable to plan routine maintenance during off-peak times and establish a relationship with a trusted HVAC company that prioritizes existing customers.

Proactive Maintenance Planning

Regular maintenance is key to the optimal performance of your HVAC system. By planning ahead and scheduling routine checks, you can avoid the last-minute rush and ensure that your system is always running at peak efficiency. This proactive approach can also help identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

Thorough Research and Due Diligence

Selecting the right HVAC company in Omaha is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Take the time to conduct thorough research, read reviews, and seek recommendations. Ensure that the company you choose has the proper certifications, licenses, and insurance to provide HVAC services. This due diligence will pay off by ensuring that you receive reliable and high-quality services.

Educate Yourself on HVAC System Care

While certain aspects of HVAC maintenance should be left to professionals, there are many routine tasks that homeowners can undertake to contribute to the system's upkeep. Familiarize yourself with the basic maintenance tasks such as filter replacement and system cleaning. This knowledge not only helps in maintaining your system but also empowers you to make informed decisions when discussing options with your HVAC provider.

In conclusion, the decision to engage with a home HVAC company is multifaceted and requires careful consideration of both the advantages and the potential challenges. By taking a detailed look at these factors and preparing accordingly, Omaha homeowners can ensure that their HVAC systems are well-maintained, efficient, and reliable, providing comfort and peace of mind for years to come. 

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Omaha homeowners are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance their property's value and appeal. Among the myriad of home improvements available, one stands out for its dual role in bolstering security and increasing property value: the home security system.

A Multifaceted Investment

Installing a home security system is an investment that pays dividends in several ways. Firstly, it serves as a robust line of defense against potential intruders, offering peace of mind to homeowners and their families. The psychological comfort provided by knowing your home is secure cannot be overstated.

Safety: A Top Priority

The core benefit of a home security system lies in its ability to deter crime. Statistics show that homes without security systems are more likely to be targeted by burglars. In Omaha, where community and safety are held in high regard, a security system is not just a personal benefit but a contribution to the neighborhood's well-being.

Insurance Advantages

Homeowners' insurance companies recognize the value of security systems by offering discounts on premiums for homes equipped with them. This financial incentive can help offset the initial cost of installation and monitoring services, making it an economically sound choice.

Enhancing Marketability

When it comes time to sell, a home with a security system has a competitive edge in the real estate market. Prospective buyers often prioritize safety features, and a pre-installed system can be the deciding factor in their purchase decision.

Technological Edge

Modern security systems offer more than just alarms and cameras; they are often part of a larger smart home ecosystem. This integration allows for remote management of various home functions, such as lighting and temperature control, further enhancing the property's appeal to tech-savvy buyers.

Community Impact

On a broader scale, homes with security systems contribute to lower crime rates in their vicinity. This collective security can elevate the desirability of an entire area, benefiting all residents by making it a safer place to live.

Long-Term Benefits

Beyond the immediate advantages, a home security system is an investment in your property's future. As technology advances and smart homes become the norm, having an up-to-date system will ensure your home remains at the forefront of market trends.

In conclusion, for Omaha homeowners looking to add value to their property, a home security system is an excellent choice. It offers protection, financial benefits through insurance discounts, increased marketability for future sales, integration with smart home technology, and contributes positively to the community's safety profile. It's an investment that not only secures your home but also secures its place in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Though it's where we spend hours relaxing and recharging nightly, the bedroom is frequently the last room to receive design focus in many homes in Omaha. This results from prioritizing spaces seen by guests, with decorating the bedroom as stylishly as possible often deferred indefinitely.

You don't have to be intimidated by redecorating this important space; small changes can have a big impact, and many can be made this weekend without outside assistance. Flex those creative muscles and get ready to make that bedroom gorgeous!

Use wallpaper in new ways

With peel-and-stick wallpaper, you can easily create and change up your bedroom's look without a big commitment. Go for urban chic with a feature wall of exposed brick, or get romantic with a different print. Since the wallpaper is removable, it's a great option if you've held off decorating because you couldn't find the perfect inspiration.

You can also give an old dresser new life or spruce up a dull nightstand with a roll of decorative contact paper. It adheres to nearly any surface and can be peeled off and repositioned if you make a mistake.

Make your own headboard

Rather than spending hundreds of dollars on an upholstered headboard, you can make your own stylish headboard for a fraction of the cost. With a trip to a craft store for supplies and a couple hours of work, you'll have a customized headboard. All you need is some MDF boards, batting, buttons, and your choice of fabric. This easy DIY headboard tutorial shows you how to create a high-end, catalog-worthy headboard on a budget.

Snazz up your bedding

To create a fresh look in your bedroom without buying new bedding, add plush pillows to give the bed oomph. According to Andrew Suvalsky, principal interior designer at ASD, a well-styled bed always has a few carefully arranged decorative pillows. Place the pillows you sleep on against the headboard, topped with accent pillows in order of height. Suvalsky recommends using pillows in accent colors that complement the room's overall color scheme to make the bed a focal point.

Create a standout mirror

Peel-and-stick tiles can transform more than just kitchen backsplashes. In mere minutes, you can use them to turn a regular bedroom mirror into an eye-catching focal point. To ensure proper spacing and the right number of tiles, first measure the area. Also, carefully plan the tile layout before adhering them, since the tiles are difficult to reposition once stuck.

Customize a rug

An inexpensive rug can be transformed into one with the appearance of an expensive, patterned rug that adds comfort underfoot in the bedroom. With stencils and chalk paint, you can upgrade a basic rug affordably.

Paint your furniture

Stencils breathe new life into bedroom furniture. Simply sand, paint, and stencil any tired piece to give it a custom, one-of-a-kind makeover. This easy DIY trick transforms old wood furniture affordably. Add knobs to complete the refreshing, stylish update.

Create some dazzling doors

Adding affordable molding can transform your plain, flat bedroom or closet doors, making them far more visually interesting. Decorating Your Small Space shows the many simple ways to achieve this easy update.

Looking for a new place to host your OWN Super Bowl party next year??  Let’s get together and find your PERFECT paring now!  Give our team of experts a call today, and we’ll get your home plan created.  The Heim-Berg Team- 402-677-9024. 

As we enter the new year, it's the perfect time to breathe new life into our homes. And what better way to start than by giving well-deserved attention to our often-overlooked floors? Whether you're gearing up for a major makeover or simply replacing worn-out surfaces, 2024 promises an array of exciting flooring trends, transforming your space into a haven of style and comfort.

1. Warm Tile Tones for a Moody Elegance

Step into 2024 with a burst of warmth underfoot! Tile design is turning towards inviting hues like cream, beige, and grey, blending different large formats and tonalities to craft captivating patterns. Jordana Moche, the maestro behind Porcelanosa NYC, predicts a surge in popularity for medium and darker wood-effect tiles and earth-toned flooring. Picture a home with a cozy, moody charm—a true retreat with a touch of hospitality.

2. Retro Carpet Revolution: Nostalgia with a Twist

Hold on to your hats because the carpet revolution is here! Audra Keiber, Mohawk's design and development virtuoso, hints at a retro resurgence in 2024. Like vintage furnishings and retro colorways, carpets are making a stylish comeback. Step away from the mundane gray and embrace the unique patterns and warm tones of this nod to nostalgia. Our top pick? The upcoming Karastan release, Stitchery, weaves a classic herringbone pattern with traditional colorways for a truly inspiring finish.

3. Familiar Farmhouse Flooring with a Modern Twist

The modern farmhouse style still reigns supreme in 2024. According to Adam Vester, Mohawk's design maven, farmhouse trends are evolving towards warm minimalism with Scandinese influences. Raw textures and organic forms meet Scandi minimalism, creating a visually clean backdrop that transforms living spaces into soft-spoken retreats. Embrace the familiarity of farmhouse flooring with a modern, sophisticated twist.

4. Innovative Sustainable Floors: A Green Revolution

Eco-conscious living takes center stage as sustainability and inclusivity drive flooring choices. Audra Keiber emphasizes Mohawk's commitment to sustainability, introducing innovative bio-based flooring alternatives. Expect clean, renewable, and sustainable materials to take the lead in 2024. Join the green revolution and explore flooring options that align with your values.

5. Hardwood Floors Reign Supreme in Kitchens

In 2024, we'll see kitchens graced by the enduring elegance of hardwood floors. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, unveils the trend, with a quarter of renovating homeowners opting for stained or unstained hardwood. Get ready for smooth surfaces, raw wood tones, and wide planks. While lighter hues make waves, rustic wood's earthy charm remains a steadfast favorite. Dive into the classic herringbone pattern for an elegant and classy appearance.

6. A Nod to Nostalgia Across Hard Surfaces

Nostalgia isn't confined to carpets alone—hard surfaces are joining the trip down memory lane in 2024. Adam Vester reveals a trend characterized by clean lines and a pared-back aesthetic. Visualize wood and laminate flooring with enhanced wood looks, featuring more minor character knots. This fusion of midcentury modernism with retro seventies vibes and futuristic elements creates an environment that transcends time, offering a sense of timeless elegance.

7. Universal Design for All: Future-Proofing Homes

Homeowners are embracing universal design principles, renovating with everyone in mind. Future-proofing becomes key, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all. Mitchell Parker points out the rising trend of addressing special needs during renovations, focusing on safety. Think nonslip bathroom flooring—a simple yet crucial upgrade that enhances safety for all ages.

In 2024, let your floors tell a story of warmth, nostalgia, and sustainability. Embrace the trends that resonate with your style, and transform your space into a haven of excitement and authenticity. Prepare for a year when flooring becomes the star of your home's design narrative!

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

When renovating your Omaha home within a limited budget, prioritizing projects can be challenging. Even if you have $12,000 to spend, upgrading the fence, patio, bathroom, and kitchen cabinets (each around $3,000) would exceed the total budget. You'll need to determine the order of importance among these desired upgrades to stay within your budgetary constraints.

Renovating your Omaha home can be a tricky conundrum, especially if you’re trying to avoid going broke in the process. Moving forward with renovations can cause anxiety if you don’t properly research, set a budget, and determine each project's return on investment. Before swinging that hammer, take the time to thoughtfully plan your renovation approach. This will help ensure you can make the upgrades you want without having to sell your house to pay for them.

Ask yourself why you're doing it

Before beginning a renovation, identify your objective—whether it's increasing rental income, boosting resale value, personal enjoyment, keeping up with neighbors, generating flipping profits, or something else important to you. Knowing your goal upfront will help you stay focused and make the right choices once the work is underway.

Prioritize

When funds are limited, renovations to frequently used items or those you can appreciate regularly may be a better investment than a major project like adding a covered patio. Even if a patio is appealing, carefully consider whether you'll use it enough to justify the cost. Building one could lead to more expenses like outdoor furniture, electronics, climate control devices, and décor. If you don't enjoy being outside much, directing funds toward interior renovations could bring more daily enjoyment. With any major home project, have honest conversations with yourself about its benefits versus the costs, both financial and practical.

Consider your budget

Regarding the budget, certain renovations are clearly more expensive than others. Some projects may also be higher priority for you than others. Many people struggle with wanting instant gratification (I'm certainly guilty of that!). It might be wise to start with a few minor upgrades that will give you a sense of progress. Alternatively, you could save aggressively for a couple months to afford the dream kitchen countertops you've been wanting.

Ask around

You may be able to reduce your hard costs by hiring a skilled handyman rather than a flooring company to install your floors. You could also take advantage of special offers from big box stores like Home Depot's current free carpet installation promotion to lower costs. Signing up for daily emails from Home Depot and Lowes provides access to limited-time deals that can save money. These retailers send Daily Deals valid for one day or until sold out.

Consider the ROI

If you cannot determine which renovation provides more value based on your needs, consider the potential return on investment. One project may offer a higher ROI than the other. Consult the Cost vs. Value Report, which compares the average cost and resale value of 21 popular remodeling projects across 149 markets. This report is an excellent resource for assessing renovation ROI.

Assess Your House

Hire a licensed home inspector to thoroughly examine your house before deciding on renovation plans. Have the inspector climb into the attic to check for dampness, scan the basement for leaks, test the HVAC systems, inspect the roof, plumbing, and electrical panels. Although you may want to update the master bath and re-face the fireplace, more pressing maintenance issues could require attention first. Evaluate the home inspector's findings to determine the most urgent priorities and develop an action plan.

Think about everyday costs

While new appliances and home upgrades like doors and windows require an upfront investment, their energy efficiency will save you money regularly in the long run.

Renovating your Omaha home may be one of the bigger challenges you'll take on as a home owner. But it can be a profitable and rewarding experience if you follow these tips.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!

Setting up a smart home can be overwhelming if you're new to it. With the ability to control various devices through voice commands, smart homes in Omaha have transformed daily living. From adjusting the lights and thermostat to closing the garage door and playing music, the possibilities are endless. However, it's important to familiarize yourself with the setup process to make the most of this technology.

To quickly get up to speed and start enjoying the benefits of a smart home, follow these simple steps.

1. Is Your Internet Fast Enough?

Before investing in smart home devices, it is crucial to ensure that your internet connection is capable of supporting them. A reliable internet connection with a high data cap, or no data cap at all, is necessary in order to fully utilize the potential of a smart home.

When you have multiple smart devices connected to your network, the total bandwidth usage can increase significantly, especially if you are streaming video or performing other data-intensive tasks simultaneously.

2. Give Your Home a Voice

When considering purchasing gear for your Omaha home, it is important to determine if you want a smart assistant to help control it all. Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri, and Google's Assistant are all excellent options, each with their own strengths. However, it is worth noting that the smart devices they integrate with for voice control can vary significantly. This means that you may need to choose your devices based on their compatibility with a specific assistant.

Alexa

Alexa has the most integrations among all the assistants, making it the top choice for voice control of your smart home. It is available on smartphones as well as the Amazon Echo line of devices.

Siri

Siri, among the three voice assistants, has the fewest integrations and is limited to Apple devices only. It is generally considered the worst of the three as a voice assistant. However, Siri is best suited for those who are heavily invested in Apple's systems. It is available on iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and HomePod speakers.

Assistant

Google Assistant is positioned between Alexa and Siri, offering a smaller number of integrations compared to Alexa. However, it excels as a digital assistant for answering questions due to Google's impressive machine learning capabilities. Additionally, Google Assistant is available on various platforms, including the Google Home smart speakers.

3. Start Adding Your Devices

When choosing the right assistant, it's important to consider compatible devices. For smart home beginners, popular options include smart thermostats, video doorbells, and smart lighting.

Smart Thermostats

Thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat provide several benefits:

• The system adapts to your preferences, minimizing the need for adjustments on your part.
• The Nest thermostat is highly energy efficient, allowing it to pay for itself in energy savings within approximately two years. After that, all the savings go straight into your pocket.
• Controlling your devices remotely is now possible with just a smartphone. You have the power to adjust the temperature of your home before you even step foot inside.

Nest is highly regarded in the market due to its sleek design and excellent performance. It has gained significant attention and is often a topic of conversation. With its appealing aesthetics and impressive functionality, it is considered one of the top choices in the industry.

Video Doorbells

Video doorbells are a popular choice for homeowners. They allow you to see and communicate with visitors without leaving your seat, even when you're away from home. Additionally, they serve as an effective deterrent against package theft, a growing concern. Ring is a highly recommended brand for video doorbells.

Smart Lighting

Smart lighting, such as the Philips Hue, is a popular choice due to its smartphone control and automation features. In addition to this convenience, smart lighting offers a wide range of colors, allowing users to set the perfect mood. The ability to customize the color and color temperature is truly remarkable. Furthermore, these bulbs have a long lifespan and consume minimal power, making them cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

There are countless smart home options available, with new ones constantly being added. However, the following list will provide you with a dependable and secure starting point. So, what are you waiting for? Take action now and begin experiencing the advantages of a connected home.

Have your home needs changed in the past year? Perhaps you’ve outgrown your present home, or need to downsize to a more suitable home. If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect and talk about all the amazing opportunities that are available to you!