Real Estate Information Archive

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

 

Understanding Your Inner Clock

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

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

 

The Bright Side of Circadian Lighting

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

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

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Bringing Circadian Lighting Home to Omaha

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

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

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A Brighter Future for Omaha Homes

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

Energy-Efficient Window Upgrades

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

ROI: 85-90%

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

 

Smart Home Technology Integration

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

ROI: 80-85%

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

 

Outdoor Living Space Enhancements

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

ROI: 75-80%

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

 

Kitchen Updates with a Local Twist

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

ROI: 70-75%

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

 

Basement Finishing with a Purpose

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

ROI: 65-70%

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

 

Bonus Tip: Flood-Resistant Features

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

The Heim-Berg Team

Your Omaha Real Estate Experts

📞 402-677-9024

🌐 www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

 

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

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!

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!

Today more than ever we are all looking for ways to save money and one of our largest expenditures is our mortgage. While monthly budgets can get tight, utilizing a little extra money to pay down our largest expenditures can pay off BIG in the end. Here we’re going to look at ‘principal only’ mortgage payments and the effect they can have on your finances.

When you purchase a home and secure a mortgage through a lender, you are paying several components of that mortgage.

1. The principal- the amount of the loan needed to purchase the home.
2. Interest on that loan- a monthly interest payment calculated on the interest rate accessed to the loan.
3. If you put down less than 20% you are also paying PMI (private mortgage insurance)
4. Property taxes
5. You may also have your Homeowners Insurance tied into the loan as well and pay a monthly premium for that.

These 5 components make up your monthly mortgage payment. However, the principal component of the mortgage represents the amount of equity you accrue each month and essentially ‘buy-back’ from your mortgage lender.

If you currently have a 30-year mortgage, and never make any additional payments, it will take you 30 years to pay off the mortgage in full and pay the full amount of interest associated with the mortgage. For example, a $350,000 loan with a 5% interest rate would be $17,500 a year paid in interest alone!!!

By making a principal-only payment, in addition to your monthly mortgage payment, you are paying down the principal amount of your mortgage faster. If you were to pay a $100 principal-only payment today at the 5% interest rate, you’ll save $332 over 30 years. Now imagine doing that every month, or more if you can. It will put equity in your pocket much quicker, pay off the principal and loan faster and save you thousands of dollars in interest over the course of your loan.

Please don’t confuse making additional mortgage payments with a principal-only payment, as they are very different. If you choose to start making principal-only payments- in addition to your regular monthly mortgage loan payment, we suggest you call your lender and have them walk you through the process, so it is done correctly, and the monies are applied appropriately. Remember, a principal-only payment NEVER takes the place of your regular monthly loan payment. That must always be made monthly and on time. This would be an additional payment to help pay down the principal amount of your loan. Any questions regarding your loan should ALWAYS be directed to your lender.

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Are you looking for a home in the Omaha area right now? Our team is ready to be our local experience knowledge and expertise to work for you!  If you’re ready to begin the exciting home-buying journey, reach out!  The Heim-Berg Team- 402-677-9024