Real Estate Information

In the past, buyers who were interested in finding just the right home had to look through hundreds of listings in order to narrow down their search. That’s no longer the case, as automated email home searches can show people homes that have all the right features at a price that is within their budget.

By entering some basic information in an online form, one can easily activate automated email home searches. Users can then select from a number of different home features including location, property type, price range, number of bedrooms, and number of bathrooms. The system will then look through all the available listings in order to find ones that meet these criteria. Information about these listings is then sent to that person’s email address so that he or she can immediately see data concerning suitable properties.

After the initial email, follow-up emails are sent every morning. These emails provide information about any newly listed property, as well as any existing ones that have had price reductions. Potential buyers can always stay up-to-date with the latest offerings without having to constantly perform new data searches in order to obtain it.

Data can be modified at any time in order to change search results. Each time information is changed, new listings are sent reflecting these changes.

Automated email home searches are free and do not obligate consumers in any way. Many people find this service helps them streamline the home-buying process by allowing them to obtain information about new listings sooner than they would have otherwise. Those in the Omaha, Nebraska area are encouraged to take advantage of automated email home searches by signing up today.

Nebraska football began this past weekened when the Cornhuskers played their first game against the University of Wyoming. Looking ahead, the final game is scheduled for Friday, November 29th against the Iowa Hawkeyes.

The Cornhuskers are coming off of a strong 2012-2013 season, in which they were 10-4 overall. This team won all of their home games with the exception of one game that was played against the University of Wisconsin Badgers. They also made an appearance in the Capitol One Bowl on New Year’s Day, where they lost to the University of Georgia Bulldogs by a score of 45-31.

Coach Bo Pelini will head the Cornhuskers for the fifth straight year this season. In each of the past four seasons, the Cornhuskers have lost exactly four games. They’re hoping to change that record this year, and they have several key players returning to help them meet their goals.

Among those coming back are running back Ameer Abdullah, offensive tackle Jeremiah Sirles and defensive end Jason Ankrah. The Cornhuskers also welcome defensive end Randy Gregory to their ball club this year. Gregory was rated the top junior college defensive lineman for the 2012-2013 season.

According to several sports analysts, defense will play a major role in how well the Cornhuskers do this season. The fact that most of the team’s defensive players are new could effectively work against them. Even so, they are expected to be one of the top contenders in this year’s Legends Division, mostly because the team’s offense is one of the best in the entire Big Ten conference.

Many are waiting to see how well the Cornhuskers fare against the UCLA Bruins later in September. If they hold their own against this team, they have a good shot at being undefeated as they head into November, where they’ll face tough teams such as Northwestern, Michigan and Michigan State. Their performance against these teams will largely determine whether or not the Cornhuskers are selected to advance to post-season conference play.

Nebraska Football - 2013 Schedule

• Aug. 31st vs. Wyoming
• Sep. 7th vs. Southern Miss
• Sep. 14th vs. UCLA
• Sep. 21st vs. South Dakota State
• Oct. 5th vs. Illinois
• Oct. 12th @ Purdue
• Oct. 26th @ Minnesota
• Nov. 2nd vs. Northwestern
• Nov. 16th vs. Michigan State
• Nov. 23rd @ Penn State
• Nov. 29th vs. Iowa

Selling a house is one of the biggest decisions that homeowners will ever make. Numerous factors are involved in the successful sale of a home. Choices such as selecting an agent, preparing the home, timing, and price all play a major role in a positive experience for homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals.

The one decision most homeowners wrestle with is deciding on a sales price. Pricing your home to sell involves careful planning, looking at the market, and accessing the condition of your home. Many things are taken into consideration before deciding on a price.

Location

Being aware of your home’s location will provide additional insight into the pricing of your property. Things like power plants, busy roads, and a less than desirable view may all make your sale price lower, while benefits such as neighborhood parks, easy access to shopping, and beautiful views drive prices up.

Staging

Planting flowers, painting, and purchasing new throw pillows may seem insignificant, but these small changes can actually add up to thousands of extra dollars in a home's sale. Presenting a house in the best possible light is important. Creating an environment that is warm and inviting, and that prospective buyers can see themselves in, is the key to selling a house.

Comparative Market Analysis

Given all of these factors, one of the tools that a real estate agent will use to help determine a home's value is a comparative market analysis. This CMA can vary from a short document to one laden with details, but they all have basic things in common. All of them will look at the active listings, pending listings, and sold listings. Additionally, they may look at items such as properties withdrawn from the market and expired listings. A CMA is going to compare your home to other homes with the same square footage and amenities. This information will assist your real estate agent in pricing your home to sell.

When it comes time to sell your home, allow the real estate professionals at Prudential Ambassador Real Estate assist you through every step of the process. With years of superior service and satisfied customers, we are prepared to find the right buyers for your house and to help you find the home of your dreams.

Mortgage rates are on the rise according to some news sources. Reports are that the average rates on a 15-year fixed mortgage escalated above the three percent mark in late May. This was the first occurrence in more than a year, but many feel this rise in interest rates is only the beginning.

Freddie Mac reported that the average rate on a 15-year mortgage was 3.03% at the end of May. This was an increase from an all-time low rate of 2.56%. 30-year mortgages saw rates rise from 3.3% in early May to 3.91% at the end of that month. According to Doug Duncan, a chief economist with Fannie Mae, mortgage rates are unlikely to ever be that low again.

One of the reasons for record low rates was that the Federal Reserve had been purchasing around $85 billion a month in mortgage-backed securities and treasury bonds. This resulted in mortgage lenders being able to offer their loans at record low interest rates while still making a hefty profit. The Federal Reserve never intended these rates to carry on indefinitely, but rather were to taper off later this year. That timeframe has since been moved up to late summer or early fall.

Although mortgage rates have risen somewhat, they have nonetheless stayed low enough to help stimulate an increase in home purchases during 2012. In addition, home sales and market values have both increased across the country during the past two months.

Since mortgage rates are on the rise, potential buyers should strongly consider whether or not to take advantage of these lower rates. There are numerous advantages to purchasing now, and many people could find it in their best interest to go ahead and invest in the American dream of home ownership.

In any kind of market, whether slow or hopping, it is vitally important to show your house at its best. Home staging won't necessarily get a seller a better price, but it just might generate a faster sale. Staging the property means creating a great first impression and helping the buyer to envision it as "home". Here is how you can make some big changes, with little or no investment, in order to make your house stand out from the rest:

Curb appeal is important!

1. Take a look at the outside of the house from a distance. Look carefully for unsightly issues - from weeds to spider webs. Make sure all dirt and debris are swept or washed away. Put bicycles, tools and toys in the garage and out of sight.
2. Manicure the lawn. Make sure all the edges are clipped cleanly. Trim all hedges.
3. Use plants to brighten the environment. Flats of bedding flowers are an inexpensive way to add color to a garden. Even in winter, evergreens in urns can create a welcoming appeal at the front door.
4. If painting the exterior is out of the question, a good power wash will make a dramatic change to the outside walls. Don't neglect doors and windows.
5. Buy a new welcome mat, and polish doorknobs and hardware.

Move to the inside

1. Eliminate personal items. Looking at someone else's family photos on the wall won’t help make the buyer feel welcome. Get a jump on packing by putting all your personal effects away.
2. Clear the kitchen. Getting rid of all the clutter will make the kitchen appear larger and brighter. Countertops should be clear and sparkling.
3. Clear the bathroom. Use a basket, and place all necessary personal items that normally reside in the open, under the sink. Make sure towels are clean and fresh.
4. Minimize furniture to make rooms feel less crowded. Move unnecessary items to storage to create an airy feeling in each room.
5. Patch and paint the walls. Nail holes from all the photos that used to reside there are not attractive, and a fresh coat of neutral paint will make the entire house look newer.
6. Clean everything until the house sparkles. Make sure there are no unpleasant odors. Air fresheners for air filters will waft pleasant smells throughout the house with no visible source.

Home staging is very much like dressing well for a job interview. Dressing well won't guarantee you land the job, but dressing poorly will definitely dampen your chances.

With the barrage of information coming at first time home buyers from all directions, it's no wonder they often feel frustrated and confused when it comes to types of home mortgages and loans. Fortunately, many of the exotic loan types that surfaced before the housing market tumbled have been eliminated, and the buyer is left with fewer difficult or confusing choices. The remaining loan possibilities will be based upon the buyers need, credit history and resources. The first choice the buyer will face is whether to go with a fixed or variable interest rate. The second choice involves whether the loan will be conventional or government-backed. Here are some of the contributing details:

Fixed Rate

With this option the payment will be the same for the life of the loan. Although prime rates rise and fall, the mortgage payments and consumer rates will always remain the same. This certainly makes it easier to budget, and if the prime rate falls dramatically, it is possible to re-finance, although that means a new loan with new closing costs and possibly appraisal costs. Fixed rate loans are available for various time frames, but the most common are 15 and 30 year periods. This may be the best choice if the buyer intends to stay in the home for several years.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages, or ARMs

These begin at a set rate and then adjust periodically at pre-determined intervals. They are generally easier to obtain than fixed rates, and often offer lower interest rates than fixed rates in order to attract buyers. These factors make this loan type popular with buyers that intend to sell in a few years. The downside is that the rate will most often increase, possibly by as much as six percent. ARMs come in several packages.

Conventional Mortgages

These types of Home Mortgages and Loans are created in the private sector, usually from a bank, with no government backing and are known as conventional loans.

Government-backed Loans

This loan will be created in the private sector, but insured by a government agency such as the Veterans Administration or the Department of Housing and Urban Development. These loans include Veterans Administration loans, Federal Housing Administration loans, and USDA loans.

The most important thing to remember is - ask questions, and make sure they are all answered fully. A reputable real estate agent is happy to review any concerns the buyer has, and can always recommend a local, reliable lender or broker. Communities across the country are sponsoring first-time home buyer classes to help buyers understand the process.

Baseball lovers unite, as America's favorite pastime brings the action and excitement to Omaha. The College World Series in mid-June is an annual tournament which showcases eight teams, all competing to be called the NCAA Division I baseball champions. This series features two double-elimination brackets with the bracket winners facing off in a best-of-three competition.

The College World Series began in 1947 and was first played in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Since 1950, Omaha, Nebraska has been home to the series. In 2009, a contract extension was agreed upon which keeps the series in Omaha through 2035. Texas has appeared in the College World Series in mid-June 34 times (the most of any team), while Southern California has taken home the most titles, with 12 in all.

This year's College World Series runs from June 14th through June 26th. Opening day packs in plenty of exciting events including the Road to Omaha Jam. This free concert features O.A.R and takes place from 8-9:30 pm. The first game of the series takes place on June 15th, and tickets are currently on-sale. There is ample parking available with easy access to the stadium. More frequently asked questions and answers can be found on the College World Series webpage.

There are numerous fan events that bring food, music, and fun into the area. Everything from opening day ceremonies and celebrations, to open practices and autograph sessions, allows fans to experience every second of the excitement. This year's Fan Fest is presented by Capital One. Located just outside the ballpark, this interactive area provides free fun for the whole family. Whether testing their skill, cheering on their team, or taking a photograph, fans get to experience the thrills and excitement associated with the College World Series.

Once played in Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium, the series is now held in the TD Ameritrade Park Omaha. This new park features many amenities and conveniences popular with today's spectator. This year other changes have been made to the game start times, including enhanced instant replay, expanded food and beverage selections, and much more. These changes, along with the popularity of the game, promise to provide the best there is in college baseball.

Buying a home can be a time of both anxiety and excitement. Home buyers that know about the terminology associated with home ownership have a better chance of fending off some of that anxiety. Pre-approval and pre-qualification are two of the most confusing terms when buying a home. Knowing the difference between pre-approval vs. pre-qualified allows buyers to understand what their agreement with the financial institution is, as well as what kind of house they can afford.

Pre-qualification

This step simply involves looking at the buyer's finances and estimating how much they can afford to spend on a house. Items like income, assets, down payment, and debts are taken into consideration. There is no commitment involved with a pre-qualification. The buyers are not obligated to purchase a home, and the financial institution is not obligated to give the buyers a loan. Pre-qualification does not include an in-depth look at the buyer's finances or an evaluation of their credit report. It simply lets the buyers know if home ownership is an option and the range of prices they can look at. Pre-qualification is a relatively short process and there is usually no cost to the buyer.

Pre-approval

When trying to look ahead at your loan options, pre-approval takes pre-qualification a step further. In this step, the lender does an extensive evaluation of the buyer's financial history, including their credit report. Instead of just telling the lender what their income, assets, and debts are, buyers are required to provide some documentation. Payroll records, bank statements, and other records are often required to proceed with a pre-approval. A pre-approval usually includes an application fee and is a tentative agreement from a lender stating that the buyer will be given mortgage financing. It is important to understand that a pre-approval is not a mortgage guarantee. A mortgage application is only guaranteed after a title search, appraisal, and other financial verifications are established. Since the pre-approval already takes many financial situations into consideration, the pre-approval status is very attractive to sellers. In situations where multiple offers are presented, buyers with pre-approval will often get selected over buyers that haven't established financing.

There are advantages to completing both of these steps, and it is important to remember that buyers always have the option of choosing a different lender. Just because one lender performed a pre-qualification does not mean that the buyer has to continue with that lender for the pre-approval and mortgage. Shopping around sometimes reveals better interest rates or a lender that better represents the buyer's wishes and communication style.

It is also important to note that the terms pre-approval and pre-qualification sometimes get interchanged by either lenders or other real estate professionals. Knowing the difference between pre-approval vs. pre-qualified can help buyers take control of their home ownership situation.

Omaha’s four major entertainment districts offer something for everyone, from trendy chic to old-town historic, and absolutely everything in between.

Walk from unique boutiques and antique emporiums to lively pubs and mouth-watering restaurants on cobblestone streets at the Old Market, Omaha’s historic arts and entertainment district. Browse the districts galleries during the First Friday art walk, take in a show at one of the district’s eight performing arts theaters, visit one of the area’s four museums, or take a stroll through Lauritzen Gardens.

Midtown Crossing is famous across Omaha as the city’s premier happy-hour destination, and is home to Black Oak Grill, Brix, Cantina Laredo, Crave, Glo Lounge, Saints Pub & Patio, and Pana 88 – all of which have dedicated happy hour menus featuring fabulous drinks and delicious appetizer specials. Want to stay for dinner? The Grey Plume serves up seasonal, locally sourced contemporary cuisine. Delice European Bakery & Café prepares authentic European treats, including quiches, Italian frittatas, ricotta pies, and French puff pastries. Diners also can create custom, gourmet dishes at Ingredient.

North Downtown, Omaha’s fastest growing mixed-use neighborhood, allows visitors to shop, eat, drink, discover and connect. Home to bars, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, schools, event venues, concert halls, offices, and residential condos and apartments, North Downtown has it all. Sip, taste, and savor some of the 100 world-class wines at Nosh Restaurant and Wine Lounge, or grab a pint and a slice of New York-style pizza at The Union. Experience high-intensity, musical improv at Blazin’ Pianos, one of Nebraska’s most popular dueling piano bars, or take in a show and find your new favorite band at the Slowdown.

Village Pointe Shopping Center, out on 168^th Street, offers great food, good looks, and the best in seasonal entertainment. Home to Maurices, Charming Charlie, Love Culture, Carter’s, J. Jill, Kona Grill, Mimi’s Café, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, Funny Bone Comedy Club, an amphitheater, and more, the center is hopping both day and night! Every spring, Village Pointe’s delicious restaurants host the Vino at the Village Wine Tour. For four hours, wine enthusiasts can sample a fine selection of red and white wines paired with a signature appetizer from each location. The center also hosts an annual wine festival in June. From Memorial Day until the end of August, visitors can enjoy The Vibes at Village Pointe, the center’s free Saturday night summer concert series. Also on Saturdays from May to October, visitors can pick up seasonal produce, fresh herbs, local meats, artisan cheeses, honey, flowers, and more at the Village Pointe Farmers Market.

The Federal Housing Administration has been insuring U.S. mortgage loans since 1934. The insurance helps protect lenders against loss by providing claims to lenders in the event an FHA-insured homeowner defaults on a loan. Though it makes the payments to lenders, the program is really provided for the benefit of American homebuyers.

The FHA program helps extend the American dream of owning a house to lower income Americans and people who could not otherwise meet traditional lending requirements. Instead of requiring 20% down, FHA qualified buyers can purchase a new home with 3.5% down. Homebuyers must qualify for the program, however, and they – not the lenders – pay for the insurance as part of their monthly mortgage payments.

The program worked well throughout history and made it possible for millions of Americans to purchase their own homes. The premiums paid by FHA borrowers were added to the program’s reserves, and those reserves were then used to pay lenders in the event a borrower defaulted on a loan. Unfortunately, the unprecedented number of defaults that occurred from 2000 to 2009 greatly reduced the FHA’s reserves and led to a number of significant changes that went into effect on April 1, 2013. Specifically, the program’s down payment requirements, annual insurance premiums, and eligibility requirements changed.

Beginning in April 2013, buyers who obtain loans above $625,500 will be required to put 5% down, instead of 3.5%. Annual mortgage insurance premiums will go up by 0.10% for loans under $625,500 and by 0.05% for loans above $625,500. Borrowers with credit scores below 620 will also be required to have a debt-to-income ratio of at least 43%. Additionally, fixed-rate “Standard” reverse mortgages will no longer qualify for FHA insurance.

Additional changes are scheduled to take effect in June. Beginning on June 3, 2013, payment of the required mortgage insurance will extend from a period of five years to the life of the loan in most cases. This change, while small, means buyers will end up paying significantly more to take out an FHA-insured loan in June 2013 and beyond than they paid in the past. Thankfully, there’s still time to obtain an FHA loan before the final change takes effect.