Real Estate Information Archive

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!

Is the bathroom in your Omaha home need a bit of a renewal? If you want to spruce up your bathroom without breaking the bank, you're in luck. According to HomeAdvisor, the average bathroom remodel costs $10,354. However, there are ways to achieve a fresh new look for a fraction of that price. Here are some money-saving tips and tricks to consider.

Keep the same layout

Moving the tub, vanity, and toilet to a completely new layout can be quite costly. According to HGTV's Scott McGillivray, each of these items will cost approximately $2500 to move. This expense could potentially exceed your budget and should be taken into consideration before making any decisions.

Do your own tilework

Tiling your own bathroom floor and shower can be satisfying and money-saving. Before you start, it's important to watch tutorials and practice your technique on a piece of MDF with inexpensive tile. This will help you gain confidence and avoid mistakes when working on your wall or floor.

When considering professional installation, it's important to note that opting for large-scale tile can lead to cost savings. According to McGillivray, the complexity of the pattern and the size of the tile both impact installation costs.

Go garage sale-ing

You can find great accessories at garage sales, estate sales, flea markets, or online platforms like Craigslist or Nextdoor. Look out for larger pieces as well, like old dressers that can be transformed into vanities. This not only saves money but also adds character to your space.

Frame it

According to HGTV, adding a frame to a builder-grade mirror not only enhances its appearance but also conceals any signs of wear and tear. Home stager and decorator Karen Gray Plaisted recommends framing mirrors to hide flaking around the edges and give them a more modern look. This affordable solution is a great way to upgrade your mirror without the expense of purchasing a new one.

Resurface

An old tub or shower can show signs of aging over time. Instead of replacing it with new, which can be expensive, consider resurfacing. While this is not typically a DIY project, you can have your tub or shower professionally resurfaced at a much lower cost than buying a new one.

Look for leftovers

Stone yards, tile shops, and contractors often have leftover materials that you can purchase or even obtain for free. Consider asking if they have any countertop remnants that could be a perfect fit for the vanity you are interested in. This approach can save you a significant amount of money, allowing you to afford the vanity without breaking the bank.

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!

Omaha Oktoberfest 2023

Sat, Sep 30, 5 – 11 PM CDT

Join us for an unforgettable evening of Oktoberfest festivities in Omaha's top venues. Dress in your finest Oktoberfest attire and get ready to celebrate and create lasting memories with friends. Raise your stein, clink glasses, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this extraordinary festival.

Porchfest OMA

Sun, Oct 1, 12 – 6 PM
Gifford Pk Neighborhood Mkt
520 N 33rd St, Omaha, NE

Porchfest OMA is a vibrant community music festival that takes place every year in the Gifford Park neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. Mark your calendars for the 7th Annual event on October 1, 2023. This free festival offers a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy live music and create lasting memories, all while exploring the charm of our community porches. Check their Facebook page for a full lineup of performers.

Omaha Gem & Mineral Show

Sat, Sep 30, 9 AM – Sun, Oct 1, 4 PM
Scott Conference Center
6450 Pine St, Omaha, NE

Two days of Rocks, Gems, Minerals and fun. There are 15 dealers with anything rock and gem related, demonstrators and displays, kids activities and a silent auction and rock pile.

Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for 12-18, seniors and UNO faculty and students. Proceeds go to rock related causes especially field camp scholarships for UNO geology students.

Quad Con Comic and Toy Show

Sat, Sep 30, 10 AM – Sun, Oct 1, 5 PM
Oak View Mall
3001 S 144th St, Omaha, NE

Attention all nerds! Mark your calendars for September 30th and October 1st because we have an exciting FREE EVENT happening at Oak View Mall. This time, we have expanded to occupy BOTH levels of the mall, so be prepared to explore. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes because we are taking over! Stay tuned for the week of the event when we will release the details of our epic cosplay showcase. See you there!

Arlington Fall Festival

Sun, Oct 1, 9 AM – 3 PM
Arlington City Auditorium
410 W Elm St, Arlington, NE

Come join in Food, Fun and Fellowship at the Annual ACC Fall Festival! Car Show, Craft Fair, Kids Games and Concessions. Something for everyone!

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!

Whether you're a first-time Omaha home buyer or an experienced investor, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly incredible deals. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary knowledge and tools to safeguard yourself from common real estate scams.

Utilize the following resources to educate yourself and make informed decisions throughout your property buying journey.

1. Research, Research, Research!

Before you even begin to consider a real estate transaction, arm yourself with knowledge by:

• Researching the market trends.
• Comparing property values.
• Verifying legal requirements specific to your location.

By educating yourself about the property market in Omaha and staying updated on current housing trends, you will not only gain a better understanding of what to expect, but also reduce your vulnerability to scam artists who target the uninformed. One way to do this is through our website and regular blog articles, so make sure you check back every week for more informative articles.

2. Be Wary of Unrealistic Deals

We've all heard the saying, “too good to be true,” and it applies even more so in the real estate world.

Scammers use incredibly low prices and promises of high investment returns to deceive victims. They are even attempting to sell other people's land without their knowledge. To protect yourself, trust your instincts, consult real estate professionals, and seek multiple opinions to avoid being scammed.

3. Work with Reputable Professionals

When it comes to real estate transactions, having the right professionals by your side can make all the difference.

Seek out licensed real estate agents, attorneys, and inspectors with solid reputations.

Scammers often pose as professionals, so verify their credentials and seek referrals from trusted sources before proceeding.

4. Always Inspect the Property

Buying a property sight unseen is strongly discouraged. If a seller refuses an in-person inspection, it is likely a red flag. Real estate fraud is on the rise in 2023, making it even more important to verify the property's authenticity. Insisting on a visit with a certified inspector is recommended to uncover any potential problems and ensure the property is legitimate.

5. Secure, Don't Wire

Be extremely cautious when it comes to wiring funds for a real estate transaction.

Scammers will often push for wire transfers and create urgent scenarios to pressure you into needing to make quick decisions.

Always verify the recipient's information directly and consider using more secure payment methods, especially for large sums of money.

6. Consider Using a VPN

In this day in the digital age, protecting your online interactions is critical. Scammers can exploit insecure connections to access sensitive information and wreak havoc on your property search.

If you’re wondering, “Do I need a VPN?” the answer is yes. A VPN will make it harder for hackers to intercept your data, especially when dealing with financial matters online.

7. Research the Seller

If you're dealing directly with a seller, do your homework on them. Cybercriminals pretend to be distressed homeowners or overseas sellers who need urgent transactions.

The best way to get a better seller identity is by:

• Looking up property ownership records.
• Confirming identities.
• Being wary of sellers who avoid personal interactions or try to rush the process. Don’t let their pushy attitude make your stress levels increase. There’s a reason they’re trying to get you to act fast.

In today's world, there are numerous real estate opportunities available, but it is crucial to be aware of the risks involved. Stay vigilant, gain knowledge, and follow the tips mentioned above, which include prioritizing cybersecurity and using a VPN. By doing so, you can protect your investments and dreams from falling victim to common real estate scams. Remember, being well-informed and making informed decisions is your best defense against these unethical practices.

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!

If you plan to buy a home in Omaha soon, or maybe you just want to give your current home a new look, you're going to need at least some new furniture and other decor. Buying furniture online may seem to be the cost-effective option. But let's admit it, it's hard to make sure you found the perfect piece until you've seen it in person. That's where Omaha's furniture stores come in. Omaha features some of the best furniture stores in the state. You're sure to find everything you need to furnish your new home. Here are some of the best rated stores for your review.

Nebraska Furniture Mart

700 S 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68114

NFM is a large home furnishings retailer that operates several locations in the United States. Founded in 1937, the company offers wide selection furniture and electronics at competitive prices. NFM has gained a reputation as one of the best places to shop for furniture in Omaha. The company offers a wide variety of furniture and appliances in its showrooms or online.

In addition, the store offers financing options and delivery services to make shopping as convenient and hassle-free as possible.

7 Day Furniture and Mattress Store

4911 S 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68127

7 Day Furniture is a family-owned Omaha business with over 65 employees. They carry Living Room, Bedroom, Dining and Entertainment furniture as well as Rugs and Lamps. They have been a part of the greater Omaha and Lincoln communities for over 30 years, offering customers the best service at affordable prices.

Mrs B's Clearance & Factory Outlet Center

7312 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68114

As a vital part of Nebraska Furniture Mart's sprawling 80-acre campus, Mrs. B’s Clearance Center and Factory Outlet is a great place to find amazing deals on home furnishings, including do-it-yourself flooring, carpeting, special purchases and sales. Over 100,000 square feet of retail space is filled with thousands of Furniture and accessory items.

The neighborhood flooring center offers more than 300 carpet rolls in stock and sells mattresses from over 100 popular brands. Experienced sales professionals are on hand to help you find the perfect piece for your home or office.

Allens Home

13336 Industrial Rd #105, Omaha, NE 68137

At Allens Home, you'll find a one-of-a kind selection of furnishings that will help decorate your home. The store’s floor is always stocked with new pieces from around the world, so there are always new things to discover.

Lovesac

120 Regency Pkwy Ste 141, Omaha, NE 68114

Lovesac's versatile pieces are designed to be easy-to-clean and long lasting, allowing you the comfort of a beautiful home.

They believe in owning furniture that lasts a lifetime and is expandable, rather than having to constantly buy new pieces.

This allows you to relax and live the life you want. Learn more about The World’s Most Adaptable Couch™, The World's Most Comfortable Seat™, Total Comfort! StealthTech Sound + Charge combines innovation with total comfort in a way that is unlike anything else available on the market today.

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!

When selling your home in Omaha, it's important to consider making minor improvements to increase its appeal and market value. One highly effective and budget-friendly improvement is applying a fresh coat of paint. This goes beyond simply hiding old colors or stains. It involves carefully selecting the right shades, techniques, and finishes to bring each room to life.

Before searching for local painters, consider these expert painting tips to make sure your property leaves a lasting impression:

1. The Power Of Neutral Tones

Neutral colors such as beige, gray, and soft pastels have the ability to create a calming and versatile backdrop. When used in interior design, these colors can transform spaces into airy sanctuaries that exude both life and elegance. The versatility of these hues allows for an inviting ambiance, making it easy for future buyers to envision their cherished furniture and decorations seamlessly fitting into the space.

While neutral colors are a safe choice, does it mean bold colors are a no-go? Not necessarily. 

2. Bold Doesn't Mean Bad

Neutral colors are versatile and appeal to a larger group of people. However, incorporating bold colors strategically can highlight important aspects of a house. Consider painting an accent wall or using vibrant colors in smaller areas such as bathrooms. This will bring character to the space without overpowering potential buyers.

Once you've settled on colors, the next vital aspect is the quality of the paint you select.

3. Invest In Premium Paint

Choosing less expensive paint may seem like a good idea, but it could lead to regrets. Premium paints are more durable, go on smoothly, and often require fewer coats. By investing in quality paint, you'll save time and achieve a professional finish, enhancing the overall appearance of your home.

If you're uncertain about the ideal color palette for your home, consider consulting professionals.

4. Preparation Is Key

To achieve a high-quality paint job, proper surface preparation is crucial. The condition of the surface directly impacts the final result.

Start by inspecting the wall for any nails, screws, or other protrusions. Remove them and fill in the gaps with spackle. For areas with old paint chipping or peeling, a thorough scraping will create a more even surface.

Before painting a wall, it is essential to ensure that it is clean and free of dust, cobwebs, and stains. Cleaning the walls with a mild cleaner will create a spotless surface, guaranteeing a smooth painting process and a flawless finish.

With a clean, even canvas in place, it's now crucial to set the stage for your paint.

5. Prime Before Painting

Priming is an essential step in any paint job. It serves as the foundation for the paint, ensuring better adhesion and longevity. While it may be tempting to skip this step, doing so can compromise the overall quality and durability of the paint job. By taking the time to properly prime, you are setting yourself up for a more successful and long-lasting result.

Primers serve a dual purpose by blocking previous wall color or stains and creating a consistent base for paint. This allows the paint to showcase its true color. Additionally, primers prevent older stains and dark shades from bleeding through, resulting in a uniform and vibrant finish.

6. Use The Right Tools

When it comes to painting, it's important to understand that not all tools are the same. The quality of your tools can greatly impact the outcome of your project. Here are some common painting tools that you may need:

• Brushes: When selecting brushes for painting, it is important to choose ones with tapered bristles. These brushes offer precision, especially when working on corners and edges. Additionally, using a top-grade brush will result in a smoother paint application, reducing the appearance of brush marks.

• Rollers: When selecting a roller nap thickness, consider the texture of your wall. Smooth walls call for thinner naps, while textured walls require thicker ones. A good roller can effortlessly cover large areas.

• Painter's Tape: When it comes to painting, it's important not to cut corners. By using superior tape, you can achieve sharp lines and ensure easy removal, preserving the integrity of your fresh walls.

Investing in high-quality equipment is essential for achieving professional results and making the job easier. However, it is equally important to master the proper application technique.

7. Master The Technique

When painting, it is important to use proper technique. Use long, even strokes and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. Start at the ceiling and work your way down, addressing any drips as you go.

To achieve a flawless finish, it is important to remember to overlap your strokes slightly. This will minimize streaks and ensure uniform coverage. It is recommended to practice this technique on a smaller area first, allowing you to get the hang of it before moving on to larger spaces. Patience and precision are key in achieving the desired result.

While the technique is basic, the conditions under which you paint can also influence the final result.

Boost your home's resale value with a professional paint job. Use quality products, prepare surfaces thoroughly, and follow expert techniques. Buyers will be attracted to the fresh appeal. Start painting now for a lucrative sale.

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!

A dry and well-maintained basement is crucial for the structural integrity and resale value of your Omaha home. Neglecting signs of water intrusion can result in expensive repairs, health risks, and other complications. Basement waterproofing acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture damage to your foundation. If you're uncertain about your basement's condition, here are clear indications that it's time to consider waterproofing.

1. Visible Water Stains: Water stains on floors, walls, or ceilings are clear indicators of water intrusion. These stains can appear yellowish or brownish in color, serving as evidence of a recurring issue.

2. Musty Odors: The persistent musty smell, similar to wet newspapers or old books, is a clear indication of mold or mildew. These fungi thrive in damp conditions.

3. Mold Growth: Mold, with its distinct musty smell, can manifest as black, green, or white patches on walls, floors, or ceilings. Its appearance not only signifies water damage but also poses health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory ailments.

4. Efflorescence: Efflorescence is a white, powdery, chalk-like substance that can be found on basement walls. It occurs when water seeps through concrete, brick, or stone and then evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits.

5. Peeling Paint: Water seepage can lead to the bubbling or peeling of paint on walls, even when using waterproof paint. This occurrence suggests that external water pressure may be the underlying cause.

6. Cracked Walls and Floors: Hairline cracks may appear insignificant, but they have the potential to expand and allow water to seep in. Vertical cracks in block foundation walls are especially worrisome.

7. Wet or Damp Floors: If your basement floor feels consistently damp or if you spot pools of water with no discernible source, it's a sign of a deeper issue. Water might be entering through cracks or where the floor meets the wall.

8. Increased Humidity: High humidity levels in the basement can lead to a damp, sticky feeling or visible condensation on the windows. This moisture can cause damage to items stored in the basement and promote the growth of mold.

9. Rusty Appliances or Fixtures: Rust on metal appliances, furnace casings, or fixtures in your basement indicates a moisture problem.

10. Bowed Walls: The extreme sign of water pressure from the outside pushing against the foundation walls is evident when basement walls curve inwards. It is crucial to consult a professional immediately in such cases.

11. Sump Pump Issues: If you already have a sump pump but still encounter water problems, there are two possible reasons. First, your sump pump might be malfunctioning and in need of maintenance or repair. Second, it could be overwhelmed by the volume of water, in which case an upgrade might be necessary.

12. Landscape Issues: If the ground near your foundation slopes towards your home, it can lead to water being directed towards your basement. Additionally, the formation of puddles close to the foundation after rain is another warning sign to be aware of.

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to consider basement waterproofing. Addressing the issue early can prevent structural damage, costly repairs, and health complications from mold exposure. Waterproofing keeps your basement dry and improves your home's health and longevity. Contact a professional in the Omaha area for an assessment and recommendations. Take a proactive approach to protect your home's foundation.

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!

The fun never stops in Omaha! If you need to unwind this week with family and friends, there are plenty of fun-filled events coming this weekend to the Omaha area. Check out these events and make some great memories!

Bellevue Hippie Fest

Sun, Aug 27, 12 – 7 PM
Falconwood Park
905 Allied Rd, Bellevue, NE

Hippie Fest is a family-friendly arts festival taking place at Falconwood Park in Bellevue, NE (Omaha Suburb) on August 26 & 27, 2023. The festival offers a variety of vibrant entertainment for all ages, including live music, bohemian shopping, a vintage hippie car show, DIY tie-dye workshops, a giant bubble garden, cirque performers, kids activities, drum circles, and delicious food. All ages are welcome to attend, and children aged 10 and under can enter for free.

20th Annual Nebraska Renaissance Faire & Medieval Pageant /
15th Annual Midlands Pirate Festival

Sat, Aug 26, 10 AM – Sun, Aug 27, 6 PM
Elkhorn, Omaha, NE

Established in 2003 in Ashland, Nebraska, the weekend Renaissance festival is the longest running in the state. Previously held at Bellevue Berry Farm and River City Star Landing, it offers two festivals in one. Visitors can enjoy an "edutainment" celebration of 16th Century Europe and 18th Century Caribbean buccaneers. Bring your friends and family for a memorable experience.

It's a Scavenger Hunt!

Sat, Aug 26, 3 PM – Sun, Aug 27, 1 AM
3201 Farnam St, Omaha, NE

All you need is your own mobile device and a data connection. Young and old, individuals, families or friends can all participate in a group, as a couple, or individually. Create multiple teams and compete against each other to be the highest ranked in our Hall of Fame.

Jam N Gears Kustom Car Show

Sun, Aug 27, 10 AM
GI Forum Omaha
2002 N St, Omaha, NE

The best party in South Omaha! Car Show / Live Music / Vendors and Art / Food and Drinks / Raffles.

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!

When purchasing a home in Omaha, obtaining the title is a crucial step. The title serves as confirmation of your ownership rights for the property acquired from the seller.

Title insurance is an essential safeguard for homebuyers and mortgage lenders, providing protection against potential losses or damages arising from defective titles.

What Title Insurance Covers

A title insurance policy should provide coverage for various potential claims against a title, such as conflicting wills, tax liabilities, and property liens. Numerous scenarios, including code violations and legal complications, can result in title issues.

One potential issue that could arise after purchasing a property is discovering that the seller does not actually have a legal claim to it. Additionally, it is possible to find out that another party is disputing the seller's claim.

Title insurance is a valuable protection against potential title issues. While working with a title company reduces the likelihood of encountering problems, it is important to remember that they can still arise.

Types of Title Insurance

Title insurance is crucial in real estate transactions, with two types available: owner's and lender's. Both provide essential protection for all parties involved.

An owner's title policy is a recommended purchase to safeguard against potential risks. It is not mandatory, but it provides protection against various issues such as conflicting ownership claims, ongoing lawsuits and liens, inaccurate public records, fraud or forgery, and undisclosed easements or agreements that could impact the value or use of a property.

Title insurance is crucial for buyers as it provides peace of mind by addressing potential issues that may arise with a title later on. Even with a title company, there is always a possibility of such issues, making title insurance one of the best ways to protect yourself as a buyer.

The lender's title insurance policy functions similarly to an owner's insurance policy, as it offers protection to the lender against potential losses. This policy provides coverage up to the loan amount, but it does not extend protection to the buyer.

A warranty of title is an alternative to a title insurance policy. It guarantees that the seller has the legal right to transfer property ownership and that no one else can claim the property legitimately. If a claim arises later, the warranty allows the buyer to take legal action against the seller.

The cost of title insurance premiums can vary greatly. However, if you're purchasing the existing owner's policy, the cost may already be included in the property sale.

The biggest takeaway is that title insurance is optional. Whether or not you need to buy it depends on your individual circumstances and risk tolerance.

Having proper coverage for your property is essential to protect yourself from potential financial burdens. Without it, you could find yourself dealing with unpaid property taxes or fines for code violations. As the homeowner, you would be solely responsible for these expenses.

Buying a home or any property can be a stressful process. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and feel confident in the transaction. 

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!

Equity in your Omaha home can be a valuable tool for building long-term wealth. By strategically tapping into your home's equity, you have various options to capture its value.

For instance, you can use it to pay off higher-interest debt or make home improvements that enhance your property's worth. Another option is to start a business or invest in the stock market, where potential returns may surpass the interest on your loan.

Another question people commonly have is whether or not they can use their home’s equity to purchase another property.

Can You Use a Home Equity Loan to Buy a House?

Yes, a home equity loan can be used to buy a house. However, it may not always be the best choice. A home equity loan is a second mortgage that allows you to tap into the equity you have in your home, which is the difference between what you owe and what your home is worth. It can be a viable option for purchasing a second home or an investment property, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.

The Upsides

When considering using your home's equity to purchase another property, it is important to determine whether you are buying a second home or an investment property. If your intention is to buy an investment property, utilizing a home equity loan can provide you with additional liquidity and potentially reduce costs.

• Investing in real estate with equity has the following advantages:
• You can increase your down payment. When you receive a home equity loan, the cash goes directly toward a down payment. Getting a lower interest rate and a lower monthly payment will allow you to be a more competitive buyer in the current market.
• Since down payment requirements for second homes can be higher, a home equity loan is a more affordable and convenient way to finance a second home.

Your current home is used as collateral for a home equity loan. You benefit from lower interest rates as a result.

Using your home equity to buy an investment property can help you build wealth. It's important to keep in mind that second homes don't generate income like investments. As a result, you'll be tying up your home in a loan, then taking on another loan, so you need to be financially stable.

The Downsides

The downsides of using equity to buy an investment property do exist. These include:

• Instead of having an asset, you will have a debt. You'll be converting the remainder of the home you own into a loan. This will mean you have a higher debt.
• If the market shifts, you will be more vulnerable, as you now own two properties. This doubles your risk. You could end up being upside down in your mortgage if your property values decrease.
• You could lose both properties if you default on your loan.
• Since most home equity loans are second mortgages, you could end up having three loans, as you have to combine it with another loan to purchase the home.
• Due to tax code changes in 2018, your interest payments will likely not be tax-deductible.

The conclusion is that using a home equity loan to buy a second home in Omaha can be a great option. You just need to weigh the pros with the cons and decide if the risk is worth it for your circumstances and goals.

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!