Real Estate Information Archive

As summer begins to fade and the first hints of fall color the trees, September is the perfect time for Omaha homeowners to prepare their properties for the cooler months ahead. With Nebraska's diverse climate, taking proactive steps now can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Let's dive into some essential home maintenance tasks for September.

HVAC System Check-up

With cooler temperatures on the horizon, now's the time to ensure your heating system is ready to keep you warm.

• Schedule a professional HVAC inspection
• Replace air filters
• Test your thermostat for accuracy
• Contemplate energy savings by upgrading to a smart thermostat.

Seal the Envelope

Keep drafts at bay and your energy bills in check by sealing your home's envelope.

• Check weatherstripping around doors and windows
• Caulk any gaps or cracks in exterior walls
• Inspect and repair any damaged siding
• Add insulation to your attic if needed

Gutter Maintenance

Omaha's fall foliage is beautiful but can wreak havoc on your homes' gutter systems.

• Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
• Check for proper drainage and repair any leaks
• Reduce future maintenance by installing gutter guards.

Roof Inspection

Before winter storms hit, make sure your roof is in top shape.

• Look for damaged, loose, or missing shingles
• Check flashing around chimneys and vents
• Trim any overhanging tree branches

Lawn and Garden Care

Prepare your home's outdoor spaces for the changing seasons.

• Aerate and fertilize your lawn for solid spring growth
• Plant spring-blooming bulbs
• Trim perennials and remove annuals
• Clean and store garden tools and outdoor furniture

Windows and Doors

Ensure your windows and doors are ready to keep the cold out.

• Clean window tracks and lubricate as needed
• Check for drafts and add weatherstripping if necessary
• Consider installing storm doors for added insulation

Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance

If you have a fireplace, now's the time to get it ready for cozy evenings.

• Schedule a professional chimney cleaning and inspection
• Check the damper for proper operation
• Stock up on firewood, storing it in a dry place

Outdoor Plumbing

Prevent frozen pipes and water damage by winterizing your outdoor plumbing.

• Drain and cover outdoor faucets
• Blow-out sprinkler systems
• Store hoses in a dry place

Safety Check

Ensure your home is safe and secure for the months ahead.

• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
• Replace batteries if needed
• Review and update your family's emergency plan
• Check fire extinguishers

1. Pest Prevention

As temperatures drop, pests may seek shelter in your warm home.

• Make sure to seal cracks or holes in the foundation or exterior walls
• Ensure the attic & basement are free of pests.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet from the house
•  

By tackling these September home maintenance tasks, you'll ensure your Omaha home is well-prepared for the fall and winter seasons. These steps will protect your investment and make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient in the coming months.

Remember, while many of these tasks can be DIY projects, don't hesitate to call in professionals for more complex or dangerous jobs. It's always better to be safe and do the job correctly.

If you're considering buying or selling a home in Omaha this fall, or if you have any questions about maintaining your property, don't hesitate to reach out. Your home is one of your most significant investments, and we're here to help you protect and maximize its value.

For all your Omaha real estate needs, contact The Heim-Berg Team:

• Phone: 402-677-9024
• Website: www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

Stay proactive, stay comfortable, and enjoy the beautiful fall season in Omaha!

Are you eyeing that perfect home in a beautifully maintained neighborhood? Chances are, it might be part of a Homeowners Association (HOA). While HOAs can offer numerous benefits, they also come with their own considerations. Before you sign on the dotted line, let's dive into what you need to know about buying a home in an HOA community.

What Exactly is an HOA?

First things first: an HOA, or Homeowners Association, is an organization in that makes and enforces rules for the properties and their residents. When you purchase a home in an HOA community, you will automatically become a member and be required to pay dues, known as HOA fees.

The Pros of HOA Living

1. Maintained Common Areas: HOAs often care for community spaces, potentially including pools, parks, and clubhouses.
2. Consistent Neighborhood Appearance: Rules about property upkeep can help maintain property values.
3. Dispute Resolution: HOAs can mediate conflicts between neighbors.
4. Amenities: Many HOAs offer amenities like fitness centers or community events.
5.  

The Potential Drawbacks

1. Costs: HOA fees can add significantly to your monthly housing expenses.
2. Restrictions: There may be rules, from paint colors to pet ownership.
3. Special Assessments: You might face unexpected costs for major repairs or improvements.
4. Less Control: Some homeowners feel they need more support in what they can do with their property.

Key Considerations Before Buying

1. Review the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) 📚

This document outlines all the HOA's rules and regulations. Read it carefully, and be sure you are comfortable with all the restrictions.

2. Examine the Financial Health of the HOA 💰

• Request and review the HOA's financial statements
• Check if there's an adequate reserve fund for future major expenses
• Ask about the history of special assessments
• 3.Understand the Fee Structure 💸
• What do the fees cover?
• How often can fees be increased, and by how much?
• Are there any planned increases shortly?
• Investigate the HOA's Management 🏢
• Is it self-managed or run by a professional management company?
• What's the reputation of the HOA among current residents?Check the Insurance Coverage 🛡️

Understand what's covered by the HOA's master policy and what you'll need to insure separately.

Attend an HOA Meeting 🤝

If possible, attend a meeting to get a sense of how the HOA operates and what issues are currently being discussed.

Review Recent HOA Minutes and Newsletters 📰

It's important to review these frequently for insight into issues and projects, both ongoing and upcoming, affecting the community.

Understand the Approval Process 📝

Learn how modifications to your home (like additions or exterior changes) are approved.

Ask About Pet Policies 🐾

If you have pets or plan to get them, understand any restrictions or rules.

Consider Resale Value 📈

While HOAs can help maintain property values, very restrictive HOAs might limit your pool of potential buyers in the future.

The Bottom Line

Living in an HOA community can offer numerous benefits, from maintaining common areas to creating a sense of community. However, going into the purchase with your eyes wide open is crucial. Understanding the rules, financial obligations, and potential restrictions will help you decide whether HOA living is right for you.

Remember, every HOA is different. What works for one homeowner might not work for another. That's why it's essential to do your homework and ask plenty of questions before deciding.

Need Help Navigating HOA Communities?

Buying a home in an HOA community can be complex, but you don't have to go through it alone. At The Heim Berg Team, we have extensive experience helping buyers find their perfect home, whether it's in an HOA or not. We can guide you through the process, help you understand the implications of HOA living, and ensure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your future.

Ready to explore your options? Let's talk about finding your dream home – HOA or no HOA!

Contact The Heim Berg Team today:

• 📞 Phone: 402-677-9024
• 🌐 Website: www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

Your perfect home is out there; we're here to help you find it!

Hey there, sun-seekers and water enthusiasts! 🌞 Can you believe summer is winding down already? But don't put away those swimsuits just yet! The Omaha area is brimming with aquatic adventures, and there's no better time to dive in than Labor Day weekend. Let's make a splash with this guide to the best lake fun around town!

Lake Manawa: A Stone's Throw from Downtown

Just a hop across the Iowa border, Lake Manawa State Park is a 1,529-acre oasis of summer fun. Here's why you should put it at the top of your list:

• Beach Bums Rejoice: Sink your toes into the sandy beach and soak up those last rays of summer sun.
• Boat-tastic: Rent a pontoon or bring your own vessel for a day of cruising.
• Fish On: Cast a line and try your luck at catching catfish, bass, or walleye.

Pro Tip: Always arrive early to secure a top spot on the beach. Trust us, it fills up fast on holiday weekends!

Zorinsky Lake: Omaha's Hidden Gem

Nestled in west Omaha, Ed Zorinsky Lake and Recreation Area is a local favorite. Here's what's waiting for you:

• Paddle Power: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a peaceful glide across the water.
• Trail Mix: Bike or hike the 7-mile trail that loops around the lake. Perfect for burning off those Labor Day BBQ calories!
• Picnic Paradise: Grab your basket and blanket for a lakeside feast with a view.

Fun Fact: Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles. They've been known to nest in the area!

Branched Oak Lake: The Big Kahuna

If you're up for a short road trip (about an hour from Omaha), Branched Oak Lake is well worth the drive:

• Wind Warriors: This is windsurfing and sailboating central. Let the breeze be your guide!
• Beach Bonanza: With multiple beach areas, you will surely find your perfect spot in the sun.
• Campfire Chronicles: Extend your stay by camping overnight. Nothing beats s'mores under the stars!

Insider Scoop: The Marina Grill serves up mean burgers and ice-cold beverages. Your taste buds will thank you!

Labor Day Lake Safety: Keep the Fun Afloat

Before you head out, remember these quick tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Sunscreen is Your BFF: Reapply every 2 hours. Lobster red is so last season!
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Bring plenty of water. The sun and fun can be deceptively dehydrating.
3. Life Jackets Save Lives: When in doubt, wear one. It's not just smart; it's the law for many water activities.
4. No Booze Cruise: If you're operating a boat, save the celebratory drinks for after you've docked.

Make It a Weekend to Remember

Labor Day weekend is your last big chance to create those summer memories that'll warm you up during the chilly months ahead. So gather your crew, pack your gear, and head to Omaha's fantastic lakes. Whether you're into high-energy water sports or prefer lounging with a good book by the shore, there's a perfect spot waiting for you.

Remember, the best summer days are spent with friends and family, laughing, splashing, and soaking up every last drop of sunshine. So what are you waiting for? The water's fine, and adventure is calling!

See you at the lake! 🏖️🚤🎣

_________________________________________________________________________________

Is lake living your dream?  Let's chat! Omaha has great lake communities, wonderful homes, and amazing waterfront views! We're here to assist you in finding YOUR perfect match! 

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! 

The holiday season is upon us, and while you're busy planning your festive getaway, ensuring your home stays safe and secure is crucial. As your local real estate expert, I'd like to share some invaluable tips to keep burglars away while you enjoy your holiday travels.

Light Up Your Home:

A well-lit home is a deterrent for would-be breakins. Investing in timers for your indoor and outdoor lights creates the illusion of an occupied home, even when you're miles away. Motion sensor lights are also an excellent addition to enhance security.

Secure Entry Points:

Double-check all doors and windows before leaving. Reinforce entry points with deadbolts and secure sliding doors with bars or dowels. A safe home starts with fortified entryways.

Maintain a Lived-In Look:

Lean on a trusted neighbor or friend to collect mail, packages, and newspapers. A buildup of deliveries signals an empty home. If you're away for an extended period, consider pausing mail and package deliveries.

Smart Home Security:

Invest in smart home security systems with cameras and alarms. Utilize modern technology allows you to monitor your home remotely, receive alerts, and even control lights and thermostats from your smartphone.

Landscaping Matters:

Keep your yard well-maintained to avoid the appearance of an empty home. Trim bushes and hedges that could provide cover for burglars and ensure a well-kept appearance.

Social Media Caution:

Avoid publicizing any holiday travel plans on social media platforms. Sharing your vacation details on any public platform can attract the wrong kind of attention. Save the posts and updates for when you're safely back home.

Secure Valuables:

Always store valuables in a safe or secure location. Consider taking important documents, jewelry, and small valuables with you or utilizing a safe deposit box.

Neighborhood Watch:

Engage with your local neighborhood watch if available. Neighbors looking out for each other can be an effective way to deter criminal activity.

Emergency Contact List:

Provide a trusted neighbor or friend with your contact information for an emergency. Having someone nearby who can quickly respond to a possible issue, adds an extra layer of security.

Police Notification:

If you are away for an extended period, inform your local police department. Some areas offer vacation checks where officers will periodically drive by and inspect your property.

NOTE: A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your home remains a safe haven during your holiday travels. 

We wish you a joyful and secure holiday season!

Safe travels and secure homes,

The Heim-Berg Team

No doubt you’ve most likely received solicited and unsolicited advice from family and friends about selling your home this year. But are they really in a position to offer advice in this area? With a challenging market, economic uncertainty, and relevant local market conditions, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos of it all. Add to that high inflation and interest rates and it can make your head swirl. But what it really means is that in this market, as in any competitive market, you NEED the knowledge and resources of an excellent real estate team to help you win!

Working with a Top Real Estate Team is the single greatest decision you’ll make when selling your home. Experienced agents have been through challenging markets before so they are better equipped to advise you through every step of the process, from getting your home ready for the market- upgrades & repairs, showings, negotiating contracts, and more. Today’s home buyers are more discriminating, the market is NOT what it was 6 months ago. Deferred maintenance on homes is not going to be acceptable, showings have to be readily available, and contingencies are not going to be waived. Your real estate agent is worth every penny you will pay them and more. The resources they have available to them, and you can be the difference between a sale or no sale, and possibly thousands of dollars on the sale itself. Did you know that most homeowners who opted to sell on their own netted 16% less on the home sale? (National Association of Realtors)

Clean & Repair- This is the first step in preparing your home. Go through the house room by room. Deep clean every square inch- after you’ve purged items you no longer need or want and packed away unnecessary items to make each room and closet look larger.  Once you’ve accomplished that goal, make a list of all repairs needed in each room and complete them one by one. You’ll want each room move-in ready without defects or repairs needed.

Depersonalize each room- You want the house to look uncluttered, clean, and organized and presented as a ‘clean slate’ for potential buyers to be able to envision themselves living in the home. In order to achieve this it is important to remove personal items, collections, and photos from walls and shelves.

Give dull rooms a coat of paint- Refresh dull-looking rooms with a fresh coat of paint. Nothing perks up a room better than a fresh coat of paint. Just remember to keep things neutral so your new buyers can decorate the home to suit their needs.

Boost your Curb Appeal- You have one chance to make a great first impression, and for some home buyers, that is going to be driving past your home. Make sure the outside of your home is well-kept and welcoming. In wintertime, it’s important to ensure sidewalks and driveways are cleared of snow and ice and that your front door/porch area is well-lit. Make it more welcoming by adding a wreath or chair and mat.

Your chosen agent will assist you in staging your home for its entrance to the market and all home showings. They will also work diligently to price your home appropriately for the market today and then negotiate all offers and guide you hand-in-hand through the process.

If you’re considering selling and have questions, please reach out to our team. We’re happy to sit down with you and review the process, and our enhanced marketing plan and get you on your way to a SOLD sign in your yard.

Nancy & The Heim- Berg Team

402-677-9024

www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

We may be in colder weather, but that doesn’t mean outdoor fun and hiking must come to a halt! Omaha has such an awesome natural landscape and incredible trails that offer year-round walking and hiking fun. All you need is to layer up, grab a great pair of boots, gloves, a hat, and some water and provisions and you’re ready to go. Here are some of the trails we recommend.

Big Papio Trail- A city trail meandering through neighborhood parks, residential & industrial spaces and stretching from Hefflinger Park to Seymour Smith Park.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park- Our gorgeous state park not only offers great hiking & walking trails, but also has cross-country skiing, ice skating, sledding, and ice fishing available. Bring the entire family and make a day of it in the great outdoors.

Fontenelle Forest- It’s hard to believe that this amazing natural wonderland is just minutes from Omaha! Featuring a mile-long boardwalk along the Mississippi River that is just breathtaking. You can also choose to take a dirt trail deeper into the woods for a more adventurous hike.  

The Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge- Connected to more than 150 miles of nature trails, the 3,000-foot-long walkway crosses the Mississippi river and offers astounding views of the city of Omaha. Great trail for a quick hike, or if you want to be adventurous and connect to the many miles of nature trails for a day-long hike.

Enjoy the scenery and beauty of the winter season while doing some cardio in the brisk cooler air. More blogs to come about winter activities to enjoy all season long in Omaha, so check back frequently.

The holidays bring so much joy and fun to our homes and families, but when they are finished, the clean-up begins. And let’s be honest, this clean up isn’t the ordinary ‘after a weekday meal’ clean up. It’s time to do some heavy-duty cleaning to get your home ready and running efficiently to take on the new year. Let’s look at the 5 most important areas to focus on for the ‘deep clean’ after the holidays.

1. Dishwasher- If your home is anything like ours your dishwasher has probably been running non-stop. Especially if you’ve hosted overnight guests as well. Think of all the food residue from your holiday dishes that your dishwasher has scrubbed through?! Remember, all that gunk can build up on the inside walls, racks, and bottom of the dishwasher itself as well. However, there’s good news! It’s easy to clean and get rid of that and have your dishwasher looking and running like it's brand new again. You’ll want to start by handwashing all removable filters.  Then put together 1 scoop of dishwasher-approved cleaning solution into the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run on your dishwasher’s hottest setting. Voilà - that’s it!  When finished it’ll be good as new and ready to tackle anything you toss in it.
2. Refrigerator- First and foremost, start by tossing out all the old & expired foods and any bottles or containers that are empty or nearly there. Then set aside all remaining items in your refrigerator so that you can clean inside.  Start with a cleaning solution and hot water.  Wipe down all shelves and bins. Remove any pieces possible to scrub thoroughly. Once everything has been scrubbed inside, organize and replace foods and condiments back in. Place a baking soda deodorizer inside to eliminate any future odors. Not done yet. If you haven’t already done so, pull out the refrigerator and vacuum off the vents in the back. They tend to get very dusty and gunky which makes it more difficult for your refrigerator to run efficiently.
3. Oven- Not my favorite, but has to be done, especially if you’ve had spills cooking or baking those delicious treats for the season. Whether you choose to use an oven cleaner or opt for a natural solution, make sure you have a pair of rubber gloves handy. Remove racks before starting. If you’re interested in a natural solution, here’s some to try:  Oven Cleaner- ½ C Baking Soda, 3 Tablespoons water. Mix in a small bowl then use scrub brush and sponge. For Degreasing your Oven try 1 C White Vinegar, baking soda, and water. First put water in the spray bottle and spray your oven. Sprinkle baking soda onto the wet areas and let stand for about an hour. Empty the water from the spray bottle and put in the vinegar. Spritz the vinegar onto the baking soda and it will begin to bubble. Use a sponge to wipe away all residue.
4. Stove Hood- This is one area that captures a lot of greases, so it needs a great cleaning after the holidays. Use your cleaning solution and hot water to submerge the filter for 20 minutes. Then scrub clean and replace back into the hood.
5. Bathrooms- Whether you’ve just entertained for an evening or two or had overnight guests for days at a time, your bathrooms are in desperate need of a deep clean and sanitizing. Again, mix your favorite cleaning solution with hot water, grab some clean towels and wipe down counters, drawers, handles, toilet surfaces, and tub & shower. Once finished, spray on a sanitizing solution and let dry. Next using a sanitizing cleaner, scrub toilets until they sparkle.

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!

Celebrating the New Year is a long-held tradition in the U.S. and is ushered in in many ways across our country. Fireworks, parties, home gatherings with family and friends, galas, and more. But in other countries around the world, some traditions are a little more intriguing. Let’s take a closer look.

Brazil- Throwing white flowers into the ocean

In an effort to illicit blessings from Yemoja, the major water deity who is believed to control the seas, Brazilians flock to the shores on New Year’s Eve to throw white flowers and place candles in the water.

Chile- Sitting in Cemeteries

It is commonplace in Chile to attend New Year’s Eve mass in cemeteries and not at church. This is so people can relax and spend time with their loved ones and include them in New Year’s Eve festivities.

Denmark- Smashing Dishes

Would you like more luck in the upcoming year? Well, if you’re in Denmark then you’re going to be smashing dishes. It is a Danish tradition to throw China at your neighbor's and friends' front doors on New Year’s Eve. It is believed that you are leaving any ill will or aggression behind you before entering the new year.  The bigger the pile outside your own front door, the more luck you’ll have in the new year.

Ecuador- Burning Scarecrows

Here is a HOT tradition…quite literally! In Ecuador, they have bonfires with an effigy at the center- representing politicians, pop icons, and other figures from the year that is ending. These ‘burnings’ are meant to cleanse the world from all the bad from the past 12 months and make room for all the good that is set to come.

Germany- Pour some Lead

As tradition would have it in Germany, each person melts a small piece of lead or tin over an open-flame candle and pours it into a container of cold water. It is said that the shape it forms reveals the person’s fate for the upcoming year. This unique activity is known as Bleigießen.

Greece- Smashing a Pomegranate

A pomegranate in Greece is a symbol of fertility, life, and abundance, so modern-day Greeks associate it with good fortune. Therefore, every New Year’s Eve it is tradition for Greeks to smash a pomegranate against their front door. The number of pomegranate seeds that end up scattered is directly related to the amount of good luck to follow in the new year.

Ireland- Sleeping on Mistletoe

That might get a little picky, but in Ireland, sleeping with Mistletoe under their pillows for the single gals is supposed to help them find their future husbands.

Italy- Wearing Red Underwear

In Italian culture, red is associated with fertility. On New Year’s Eve, many Italians will wear red underwear hoping it will help them conceive in the new year.

Scotland- First Footing

New Year’s Eve is extremely important in Scotland, in fact, it is called Hogmanay. While many Scottish traditions are observed on this day, one stands out among the rest. It’s called First Footing. What is it? Simply put it is the first person who crosses the threshold of your house after midnight. But there is a catch. That person should be a dark-haired male if you want good luck in the upcoming year! Better yet if this dark-haired male comes bearing gifts of coal, salt, shortbread & whiskey! These ensure better fortune.

Spain- Eating Grapes

In Spain, locals will eat 12 grapes, 1 each after the first 12 bell strikes after midnight. This is to bring about good fortune and prosperity in the new year. This tradition started back in the 1800s with the Alicante area vine growers as a means of selling more grapes.

The Netherlands- Eating lots of Oliebollen

This one is a wee bit strange, to say the least, but this Dutch tradition goes back to the Germanic Goddess of Perchta, also known as the Belly Slitter. It was believed that if they filled their bellies with these pieces of deep-fried dough, the fat from the donuts would cause her sword to slide off of them and she wouldn’t be able to slit their bellies.  Why would she do this in the first place? It was a so-called punishment for people who hadn’t sufficiently partaken in the Yuletide cheer.  Today, Dutch vendors all over sell this yummy deep-fried donut-like ball for all to enjoy.

Turkey- Sprinkling Salt

It’s not just a seasoning, in Turkey and other countries around the world, it is believed that if you sprinkle salt on your doorstep as the clock strikes midnight, you’ll promote peace and prosperity throughout the new year.

However you choose to usher in the New Year, we wish you a safe and happy time celebrating!

Remember, this is a brand-new beginning, a chance to create your own story from page 1. Create the best one you can!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  WELCOME, 2023!!

Now that the winter season is upon us, it is important to ensure one of your most valuable assets is protected during this frigid period. Ice dams are a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof from the water of melting snow that is draining off your roof. The water that can back up behind the dam can then leak into your home and cause damage to ceilings, insulation, and walls. If that were to happen it can also cause a buildup of mold & mildew and lead to respiratory issues.

If surface temperatures of the roof are not uniform in nature, this will cause melting to occur in spots and water to run down the roof and freeze again in the areas that are below 32 degrees. What causes uneven roof temperatures? Heat loss from your home, combined with snow covering the roof, combines to increase the likelihood of ice dams forming.

What can you do to prevent ice dams?

1. Make sure the ceilings in your rooms are air-tight and no warm air can flow into the attic. The attic space needs to remain at an even cool temperature.
2. If you find any areas of leakage, seal them immediately.
3. You may also want to consider additional ceiling and roof insulation. Consulting with a professional on the grade and amount would be advised.
4. Always remove excess snow from your roof. Roof rakes & push brooms can be used for this purpose, however, depending on the roof, could damage roofing materials. Consulting with your roofing professional would be a quick phone call and could potentially save money in the future.

Roofs built to code should not have a problem handling the snow load, but removing the snow helps with the temperature control of your roof and the possible formation of dams. Warning signs- watch for the formation of the ice edge and icicles.  While icicles look beautiful in the glistening sun, they can also be a sign that heat is escaping your home.

Doing an inspection now could save you many headaches and expenses later. Additionally, sealing any escaping heat will also help you save on your heating costs for the season.

As always, we recommend you speak with a contractor or roofing professional for advice when dealing with an ice dam or roofing issue.

If you are looking for a reference for a great local professional, please reach out to our team. We work with trusted local professionals and have a vast network at our fingertips.