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What To Do After You Purchase Your First Omaha, NE Home

by Nancy Heim-berg

There is no better feeling than signing the final paperwork on your first home! And while the difficult hunt of finding your perfect property is over, there are still many items to check off your ‘to-do’ list before you can kick your feet up. 

We have dedicated today’s blog post to a list of items for you to consider after you purchase your first Omaha, NE home. Let’s dive in! 

-One of the first things you want to do after purchasing your Omaha, NE home is to change the locks and garage codes. This will ensure no one with previous access to the home is able to enter moving forward. You may also consider updating the home technology such as the security system for an added layer of protection. 

-You will want to use your home inspection report as a guide to address any issues that were flagged, and the seller did not fix. You don’t have to tackle these all at once – you can prioritize what needs to be completed on what timeline and gradually check items off. 

-Be sure to connect the utilities, such as electricity and gas, prior to your move in date. This will make for a smooth transition as you settle into your new abode. 

-Don’t forget to check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to ensure they are in good working condition. You may need to change out the batteries or consider replacing the entire units if you feel they need to be updated. 

-Prior to your move in date you may consider hiring a professional team to deep clean the space before your belongings are hauled in. You can’t be sure what dust and/or allergens have accumulated and it’s always good to start with a clean, clear space. 

-In case of emergencies, be sure to familiarize yourself with emergency shut-offs, appliance manuals and the circuit box right when you move in. The least ideal time to search for these is in moments when you need them! 

-Lastly, don’t forget to update places such as your employer, insurance companies and banking institutions with your new address. Additionally, if you are moving from out of state be sure to set a date to visit the local DMV to update your license. 

 

Are you interested in hearing what our amazing clients are saying about us? Be sure to check out the Testimonials page here!

Pros And Cons Of Buying An Omaha, NE Fixer-Upper

by Nancy Heim-berg

The Pros And Cons Of Buying An Omaha, NE Fixer-UpperIf you are searching for a new home, chances are you’ve come across some properties that need some serious love, attention and renovations. And if you initially turned an eye to those homes you may be missing out on an opportunity to turn that eye sore into your dream abode. 

In today’s blog post we are going to be covering the pros and cons of purchasing a fixer upper. This information will give you an overall picture of what you are getting with an older property and allow you to examine if that route is one you want to take. Let’s dive right in!  

Pros of buying a fixer-upper:
-Customize the home to your liking. Purchasing a fixer-upper allows you the opportunity to personalize and customize the home to your specific taste and wants when doing the repairs/upgrades. 

-Your dream neighborhood. Do you have a part of town you love but the price tags don’t fit your budget? A fixer-upper may allow you to buy a home in your price range in a part of town that otherwise may have been too expensive. 

-Potentially save money on your home purchase. In some cases, what it would cost you to purchase and fix up and older home can end up being less than what it would have cost you to purchase a new house. 

-Adding value to your home. Certain home renovations, such as bathrooms and kitchens, can add value to your house. This is especially true if you purchased the property below its market value.


Cons of buying a fixer-upper:
-Time and budget. As renovations go, it is not uncommon for the project timeline to take longer than initially expected and cost more than was originally quoted. Things happen – expect the unexpected.

-Invisible repairs. While many repairs are obvious and can be seen with the naked eye, there is potential for some real work to be hiding behind the walls. Rewiring the house to accommodate modern appliance standards, for example, can leave you with a large, unexpected bill.

-Living in and financing the renovations. You will be living in a construction zone until the project is completed if you are not able to find alternative living arrangements. Additionally, you will either need to secure a home renovation loan or have cash in-hand to finance the renovations. 

-Time-consuming. Be prepared to spend time on the home renovation project, whether it’s picking out finishing’s, redesigning layouts, settling on paint colors, etc. you will be busy and consumed until things are wrapped up. 

 

From new, modern homes to old fixer-uppers - whatever your taste let our experienced team help you find your dream home in Omaha, NE. Be sure to sign up for our listing alerts here!

Five Mortgage Closing Terms And What They Mean

by Nancy Heim-berg
Five Mortgage Closing Terms And What They MeanReal estate terminology can really throw you for a loop, especially if you are a first-time home buyer and haven’t dealt with the home buying process before. If you can relate, then we are sure you will enjoy (and benefit from) today’s blog post! 
 
Below we are going to be talking about five common mortgage closing terms and their meaning. Our hope is to simplify these phrases so you can not only understand things a little better as you navigate, but further enjoy the home buying process. Let’s dive right in! 
 
1.) Down Payment:
A home buyer must provide money up-front in order to secure the amount that is being borrowed, and that money is referred to as a down payment. Most mortgage lenders require a cash down payment ranging from 3%-20% in order to be approved for a home loan. 
 
2.) Annual Percentage Rate (APR):
APR is a broad measure of the cost you, as the borrower, have when taking out a loan and could refer to costs such as broker fees, interest rate, points, etc.
 
3.) Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI):
If you are planning to put less than 20% of the home’s value down (for your down payment – see first bullet), you typically will be required to pay private mortgage insurance when you take out a conventional home loan. This insurance serves as protection for lenders in the event you end up in foreclosure. 
 
4.) Loan Estimate (LE):
The loan estimate refers to the details of the agreed upon terms of your loan, in addition to the estimated closing costs. 
 
5.) Closing Costs:
Both parties (the buyer and the seller) are responsible for paying closing costs. These costs can include things such as property fees, application fees, title insurance, title examination, attorney charges and settlement documents. 
 
 
Are you interested in hearing what our amazing clients are saying about us? Be sure to check out the Testimonials page here!
 

Two Terms To Understand When Buying Your Omaha, NE Home - Pre-qualified Vs. Pre-approved If you are a first-time home buyer you may come across words or phrases during the buying process that you are unfamiliar with, thus causing a level of confusion and unnecessary stress. Two of those terms may be pre-qualified and pre-approved – and while they sound similar, it is crucial that you understand the differences.

And as you may have guessed, that is exactly what we are going to be covering in today’s blog post. We want to ensure you are equipped with all the knowledge possible to make the home buying process as enjoyable as possible. Because after all, it’s an exciting and wonderful time! Let’s jump in: 

For home buyers, one of the first steps in the mortgage process is to get pre-qualified for a home loan. Essentially this step allows you to provide the lender with an overview of your financial picture and can typically be done online or over the phone. You can expect to provide things such as debts, assets, income, etc. The lender will then evaluate your information and provide you an estimate of the mortgage that you may qualify for. 
*It is important to note that this is not a complete assessment of your ability to purchase a home, but simply will provide you an idea of what you can potentially be approved for. This also does not take into account your credit report. 

The pre-approval process, on the other hand, is more in depth and a much more involved process. This process requires the home buyer to complete an official mortgage application, in addition to providing items such as credit reports and bank statements. The lender will then do a very thorough assessment of your provided information and can submit an exact mortgage amount that you are approved for. Being armed with this information is crucial when starting your home search as you will understand exactly how much home you can afford and not waste time on properties out of your price range.  

 

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A Guide For First Time Home Buyers In Omaha, NE

by Nancy Heim-berg

A Guide For First Time Home Buyers In Omaha, NE If you are looking to purchase your first home in Omaha, NE then you won’t want to miss today’s blog post! 

The home buying process for first time buyers is very exciting, yet also can seem daunting and overwhelming at times. That is why we have outlined the process in a few simple steps below in hopes that you can familiarize yourself with what to expect. Ready to find your first home? Let’s dive in! 

-The first thing you want to do is get an idea of the type of property you are looking for. This will help you effectively communicate your wants and needs to your realtor and keep you from wasting your time at showings that ultimately will not interest you.

-Next, find a great real estate agent. This step is crucial because not only will you be spending a lot of time with your realtor, but you want to find someone that has extensive knowledge of the area, is hard working and will work in your best interest. Your relationship with your real estate agent will be the foundation of your home buying process, so make sure you find someone you can trust. 

-Find a lender and work with your loan agent to figure out which mortgage is right for you. You will then follow the application process and submit all required material.

-This is where the fun starts – find your dream home! Your agent will begin setting up showings with potential properties that fit your criteria and budget. 

-Once you find a property that you love you will work with your real estate agent to craft an offer on the home. The offer will have specifics such as price, proposed settlement date and contingencies. 

 

From new, modern homes to old fixer-uppers - whatever your taste let our experienced team help you find your dream home in Omaha, NE. Be sure to sign up for our listing alerts here!

Five Tips For A Successful Move In Omaha, NE With Kids

by Nancy Heim-berg
Five Tips For A Successful Move In Omaha, NE With KidsAs if the process of moving isn’t difficult enough, adding children into the mix can be a daunting and stressful recipe. But with the right preparation and planning you can make it a fun and exciting journey for your whole family to enjoy. That is where we come in!
 
Below we have listed five tips and tricks for a successful move with children: 
 
1. Our first tip is to call a family meeting to explain what will be going on with the big move. And make it fun! Order pizza or your favorite take out spot and sit together to discuss what they can expect to take place over the coming weeks. This will create a safe place for your children to ask questions, voice concerns and allow everyone to get on the same page. Children are more likely to be excited about the change if they understand everything that is happening and feel a part of the process. 
 
2. Next, do your best to involve your children in the moving process. This will not only arm you with extra helping hands but also ease their nerves about the situation. One big way to accomplish this is to spend a few days over a few weekends sorting through their toys, clothing, books, etc. and donating/selling/tossing items they no longer use or want. This purge will help to lighten your packing and ensure you are only transporting items you need to the new house. 
 
3. If you are moving just across town, plan to take some time over a weekend and drive your children to the new neighborhood to show them around town (and a walk-through of the new home if possible). Visit the local grocery stores, libraries, community theater, gyms, etc. and familiarize them with the area and allow them to get excited about their new surroundings. 
 
4. To help keep moving week organized (and your sanity in check) make a plan. Sit down with your family the week before and plan every task that each person is responsible for. Be detailed and set a day/time that each item needs to be completed by. You can even get as detailed as mapping out what meals you will eat in the event you are not able to cook at home and which car each person will drive in on the day of the move. The more detailed the better! 
 
5. Lastly, if your children are switching schools due to the move, host a “See you soon” party with all their friends. This is a great way to make your child feel special and create beautiful memories before parting. 
 
Selling your home in Omaha, NE? Be sure to check out our Home Selling Tips page here for more useful tips and tricks!
 
4 Things To Consider If You Are Buying An Older House In Omaha, NEMany people are attracted to older homes due to their character, charm and unique design elements, and much prefer this purchase over a newer, more modern property. And while all homes have their fair share of upkeep and issues from time to time, older homes are more prone to costly renovations and repairs. 
 
If you are thinking of purchasing an older home in the Omaha, NE area then be sure to take note of our blog post today as we outline a few things to consider and keep in mind during your home search. Let’s dive in!
 
1. While we all know how important the home inspection is prior to finalizing the sale, you may want to consider bringing in a second inspector if you are purchasing an older property. The truth is we are all human and with that we are prone to making a mistake two. And when it comes to a home inspection, missing something here or there can add up to costly repairs down the road that you did not expect and therefore not prepared for. It may be worth the extra money to ensure you know exactly what you are getting yourself into and having a second inspector come out.
 
2. If you are looking at an older property, chances are there was lead paint used on the walls and other areas throughout the house.  This can be especially important to note if you have children as there are potential health risks involved. If you see chipped, cracked or flaking paint be sure to have the inspector test it and look into ways of remediating it. 
 
3. It’s a four-letter word that can wreak havoc on your life and health if left untreated – that’s right, we are talking about mold. Many homes that have been sitting empty for a while and/or do not have good circulation can be a breeding ground for mold, especially in attics, basements and living quarters. Be sure to test for mold and understand that remedying the situation could be quite expensive.
 
4. Lastly, don’t forget to ask how long the home has been sitting vacant. The longer the house hasn’t had air or water circulation, the more likely you are to run into costly problems like mold, moisture buildup and rodent infestations. Additionally, if you know the property has been unoccupied for a long time then you can be sure to look more closely at things to ensure you catch potential issues before signing the dotted line. 
 
 
From new, modern homes to old fixer-uppers, whatever your taste let our experienced team help you find your dream home in Omaha, NE. Be sure to sign up for our listing alerts here!

What To Look For When Buying A Home In Omaha, NE

by Nancy Heim-berg

What To Look For When Buying A Home In Omaha, NEIt is no secret that buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you will make in your lifetime. And with the right real estate agent and professional guidance, it can also be one of the most exciting times for you and your family as you navigate the home buying process. 

There are a lot of factors to consider when you begin looking at potential homes in Omaha, NE, which is why we have outlined some things for you to look for and think about when you begin your search:

How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need for the next decade – are you planning on growing your family, do you have children leaving for college soon, will you be caring in-home for elderly parents, do you need a home office or gym? These are all factors to consider when figuring out your ideal bedroom and bathroom count. 

Does your current (or future) situation call for a single-story home?
If you have anyone in your household that will have an issue utilizing a staircase then it may be better to opt for a single-story home. This may include small children, elderly parents, guests with physical limitations or if you simply are planning on growing older in the home yourself and foresee a staircase being an inconvenience. 

How much storage space do you need?
Storage space can be an afterthought for many people when it comes to looking for a home – that is, until they move in! If you are someone who needs a lot of storage it is important to note that for your realtor prior to your search. You can also always get creative and find different ways to create storage areas if needed, but it is important to have that on your list if it’s important to you. Also, be sure to take into consideration garage space if you need to accommodate multiple vehicles. 

What does your ideal yard look like? 
Some people dream of a spacious backyard to host summer BBQ’s and birthday parties, others want a low maintenance property with little upkeep. And some families fall in the middle. 

What are you looking for in a neighborhood?
What neighborhood you live in can impact many things such as commute times, school districts, distance to local conveniences, walkability, accessibility to amenities, etc. It is important to think about this off the bat, so you don’t waste time touring potential homes in areas that do not meet your needs and wants. 

Do you want to do repairs and renovations? 
Some people are open to (and even get excited about) the thought of home repairs and renovations as it allows them to put their own personal touch and incorporate their style into the property. Others run far and fast when renovations are muttered in a sentence and want a move-in ready home. Which do you prefer? 

 

Whether you relocating to Omaha, NE or simply moving neighborhoods, be sure to check out our Home Buying Tips page here!

Five Reasons To Work With A Real Estate Agent When Buying Your Omaha, NE HomeNo matter if it’s your first or sixth time purchasing a property, the process of buying a home can be exciting, stressful and seem like a roller coaster of mixed emotions. And while we live in a digital age, it is important to know that the internet will not replace the guidance and expertise of a knowledgeable real estate agent during your home buying journey in beautiful Omaha, NE. 
 
In today’s blog post we are going to be talking about the many reasons why it is so important to have a real estate agent by your side in the home buying process and a few qualities to look for when choosing an agent. Let’s jump in! 
 
1. One of the most important reasons to work with a buying agent is because they have a finger on the pulse of the market and will be knowledgeable on the local conditions. They can guide you on neighborhoods that are within your budget and understand the comps of the chosen area. 
 
2. Second, your agent will be able to provide valuable insight while walking through potential homes and can point out certain things that you may not have caught on your own. These can be anything from potential costly renovations and repairs, to different ways to envision and utilize a certain space/room.
 
3. Your agent will be able to guide you from start to finish on the process of putting an offer on your dream home. Especially if the home you are eyeing has a lot of attention, your experienced buying agent will be able to keep you informed to stay ahead and competitive on the property.
 
4. Fourth, you can sleep well at night knowing you have someone working in your best interest and looking out for you from start to finish. Especially if you are a first-time home buyer, it can be comforting to be able to ask questions and seek advice from an agent who wants to see you win at the end of the day. 
 
5. Lastly, you have someone in your corner who can comfort you and walk you through any emotional situations that may arise. They say that your real estate agent becomes your best friend during the home buying process and the journey is much more enjoyable when you have someone in your corner that you trust to lean on.  
 
 
Qualities to consider when looking for a real estate agent:
 
-Honesty and integrity 
-Tenacious spirit
-Well networked 
-Knowledgeable about the local market 
-Extreme attention to detail 
-Clear communicator 
-Good listener 
 
 
Are you looking to purchase a home in beautiful Omaha, NE? Allow our team of experienced agents to help with all your real estate needs. Learn more about our team here!
Five Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A New Neighborhood In Omaha, NEWhether you are relocating to Omaha, NE from another state or just moving minutes up the road, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing a new neighborhood to settle into. And since narrowing down a part of town you want to be in can be tricky, we have listed a few things to keep in mind and research before deciding on an area:
 
1. School District: If you have children or are thinking of growing your family in the future, what school district your neighborhood falls in can be a huge determining factor. Be sure to research and educate yourself on the school districts and set boundaries, as well as the elementary, middle and high schools that fall within each district. 
 
2. Commute Times: Ask yourself how long you are wanting/willing to spend in the car each day commuting to work/school drop off/activities/etc. Commute times can be another huge factor in the neighborhood you decide to settle into and should be calculated prior to deciding on a part of town.  
 
3. Conveniences/Amenities: Set aside some time to research (or drive around) the neighborhood you are looking into to determine how close everyday conveniences and amenities are such as grocery stores, gas stations, gyms, doctors’ offices, dry cleaners, local parks, playgrounds, etc. If you are not wanting or willing to drive fifteen minutes to grab that gallon of milk you forgot, then maybe it’s time to look for a new neighborhood. 
 
4. Safety: This may be one of the most important factors for many families to consider, especially if you have young children. Living in a safe neighborhood with low crime rate can provide homeowners peace of mind. You can get an idea of this by speaking with local residents or police officers in the area or by visiting websites like NeighorboodScout.com.
 
5. Affordability: No matter how much you love a neighborhood, if the home prices exceed your budget things just won’t add up - literally. This is why it is so important to know your numbers before you start looking so you can stay practical and within your budget while searching for your dream home in your desired neighborhood. 
 
 
Allow our team of expert agents to help you find your perfect home in your dream neighborhood by signing up for our free Listing Alerts here!

Displaying blog entries 41-50 of 72

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Heim-Berg Team
Berkshire Hathaway
331 Village Pointe Plaza
Omaha NE 68118
(402) 677-9024
(402) 679-7108 | (402) 830-6123
Fax: 402-493-4805

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