Happy New Year 2024 from the Heim-Berg Team!

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

The start of a new year is a perfect time to show gratitude. Thank you for being a part of our journey and trusting us with your business. Wishing you a prosperous year ahead in 2024!

Here are some events coming up in Omaha to help you ring in the new year.

New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular

Sun, Dec 31, 7 – 8 PM
CHI Health Center
455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE

Enjoy breathtaking fireworks from the comfort of your car this New Year's Eve! Free parking lots open at 6pm near CHI Health Center (MECA Lots A, B, and C) and Gallup University Campus (1001 Gallup Drive). Fireworks will launch from MECA Lot D at midnight. Tune your radio to STAR 104.5 FM to hear synchronized music during the show.

New Years Eve @ The Granary!

Dec 31, 2023, 1 PM – Jan 1, 2024, 2 AM
Venues at The Granary
5555 Granary Plaza Suite 101, Ralston, NE

New Year’s Eve at the Granary is back for Nebraska’s second annual LIVE New Year’s Outdoor Ball Drop!

This premier Midwest NYE destination offers three exciting party venues to welcome the new year. Dance the night away with a live DJ in the lively Bushwackers area or enjoy the exclusive VIP experience with live music, special menus, and private balcony access. Upgrade to a private VIP cabana with bottle service and decor for you and 9 guests. At midnight, usher in 2024 with Nebraska's biggest live ball drop outside on the Granary Green, followed by a dazzling fireworks show. With entertainment options for everyone, the Granary's New Year's Eve celebration is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

The party culminates in a spectacular midnight celebration on the Granary Green, where Nebraska's largest live ball drop counts down the seconds to 2024 on a 27-foot LED screen. As the glowing ball descends, a DJ spins party music to match the custom video countdown. Cheers erupt when the ball drops at midnight, followed by a dazzling fireworks display. This memorable New Year's Eve bash is an event not to be missed!

New Year's Eve At Slowdown

Sun, Dec 31, 9 – 11 PM
Slowdown
729 N 14th St, Omaha, NE

Get ready to dance into a new year with Omaha's best New Year's Eve party! DJs, dancing, and champagne toast at midnight.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available and include:
- Private bar with 1 cent drinks all night long: Premium Wells, Several canned beer options, House red and white wine, Champagne.
- Balcony access
- Appetizer buffet from 8-10pm

Happy New Year 2024!

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!

Happy Holidays from The Heim-Berg Team!

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

The Heim-Berg Team would like to wish all of our clients and family the very best this holiday season. Thank you for letting us help you make your real estate reams a reality in 2023!

To help round out the season, here are a few holiday events planned in Omaha this week.

Christmas at Union Station

Sat, Dec 23, 12 AM
The Durham Museum
801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE

The magic of Christmas continues at The Durham Museum with a long-standing tradition that includes Omaha's official Christmas tree, holiday concerts, and visits from Santa Claus himself, and we hope you will join us for the festivities!

Winter Wonderland

Thorugh Jan 2, 2024, 5 PM
Fontenelle Forest
1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE

Each December, we transform our Great Hall into a Winter Wonderland for all to enjoy. The forest setting of Fontenelle Forest creates a magical holiday experience where families can start new traditions and make lifelong memories.

Holiday Concert Series

Sat, Dec 23, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
The Durham Museum
801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE

Enjoy beautiful holiday music performed by talented local entertainers under the glow of The Durham Museum's 40-foot Christmas tree as part of the museum's holiday concert series.

Happy Holidays from The Heim-Berg Team!

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Securing Your Omaha Home for a Stress-Free Holiday Getaway- Expert Tips to Keep Burglars at Bay!

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

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

Light Up Your Home:

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

Secure Entry Points:

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

Maintain a Lived-In Look:

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

Smart Home Security:

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

Landscaping Matters:

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

Social Media Caution:

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

Secure Valuables:

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

Neighborhood Watch:

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

Emergency Contact List:

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

Police Notification:

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

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

We wish you a joyful and secure holiday season!

Safe travels and secure homes,

The Heim-Berg Team

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Choosing What Comes First When Renovating Your Omaha Home

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

When renovating your Omaha home within a limited budget, prioritizing projects can be challenging. Even if you have $12,000 to spend, upgrading the fence, patio, bathroom, and kitchen cabinets (each around $3,000) would exceed the total budget. You'll need to determine the order of importance among these desired upgrades to stay within your budgetary constraints.

Renovating your Omaha home can be a tricky conundrum, especially if you’re trying to avoid going broke in the process. Moving forward with renovations can cause anxiety if you don’t properly research, set a budget, and determine each project's return on investment. Before swinging that hammer, take the time to thoughtfully plan your renovation approach. This will help ensure you can make the upgrades you want without having to sell your house to pay for them.

Ask yourself why you're doing it

Before beginning a renovation, identify your objective—whether it's increasing rental income, boosting resale value, personal enjoyment, keeping up with neighbors, generating flipping profits, or something else important to you. Knowing your goal upfront will help you stay focused and make the right choices once the work is underway.

Prioritize

When funds are limited, renovations to frequently used items or those you can appreciate regularly may be a better investment than a major project like adding a covered patio. Even if a patio is appealing, carefully consider whether you'll use it enough to justify the cost. Building one could lead to more expenses like outdoor furniture, electronics, climate control devices, and décor. If you don't enjoy being outside much, directing funds toward interior renovations could bring more daily enjoyment. With any major home project, have honest conversations with yourself about its benefits versus the costs, both financial and practical.

Consider your budget

Regarding the budget, certain renovations are clearly more expensive than others. Some projects may also be higher priority for you than others. Many people struggle with wanting instant gratification (I'm certainly guilty of that!). It might be wise to start with a few minor upgrades that will give you a sense of progress. Alternatively, you could save aggressively for a couple months to afford the dream kitchen countertops you've been wanting.

Ask around

You may be able to reduce your hard costs by hiring a skilled handyman rather than a flooring company to install your floors. You could also take advantage of special offers from big box stores like Home Depot's current free carpet installation promotion to lower costs. Signing up for daily emails from Home Depot and Lowes provides access to limited-time deals that can save money. These retailers send Daily Deals valid for one day or until sold out.

Consider the ROI

If you cannot determine which renovation provides more value based on your needs, consider the potential return on investment. One project may offer a higher ROI than the other. Consult the Cost vs. Value Report, which compares the average cost and resale value of 21 popular remodeling projects across 149 markets. This report is an excellent resource for assessing renovation ROI.

Assess Your House

Hire a licensed home inspector to thoroughly examine your house before deciding on renovation plans. Have the inspector climb into the attic to check for dampness, scan the basement for leaks, test the HVAC systems, inspect the roof, plumbing, and electrical panels. Although you may want to update the master bath and re-face the fireplace, more pressing maintenance issues could require attention first. Evaluate the home inspector's findings to determine the most urgent priorities and develop an action plan.

Think about everyday costs

While new appliances and home upgrades like doors and windows require an upfront investment, their energy efficiency will save you money regularly in the long run.

Renovating your Omaha home may be one of the bigger challenges you'll take on as a home owner. But it can be a profitable and rewarding experience if you follow these tips.

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!

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Holiday Fun for the Whole Family in Omaha!

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

Embrace the Holiday Cheer in Omaha, NE! 🌟🎄 This weekend is packed with festive fun for everyone! 🎅 Here's your guide to the jolly happenings:

Omaha Holiday Lights Festival- Where: Downtown Omaha -When: Friday, December 9, 6 – 10 PM

Kick off the weekend at the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival! Downtown transforms into a twinkling wonderland with dazzling lights, live music, and seasonal treats. It's the perfect setting to spark your holiday spirit.

Winter Wonderland Opening Weekend- Where: Fontenelle Forest- When: December 9, 1 PM – 3PM

Fontenelle Forest's Winter Wonderland event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with your family. This weekend, you can enjoy a variety of holiday-inspired arts and crafts, indulge in delicious hot cocoa, take a festive caroling hike, participate in habitat-building activities, meet Santa Claus, and even have the opportunity to interact with birds of prey. It's a fun-filled event that offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Christmas at the Farm- Where: Papillion, NE- When: December 9, 12 PM- 6 PM

Bellevue Berry Farm is excited to invite everyone to our Country Christmas event. Join us in our cozy country atmosphere where you can warm up with a cup of Hot Cocoa and decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus. Don't forget to take a picture with Santa and write your Christmas list. Our farm offers a variety of activities, including Kids Play Areas, a Bonfire, and a Holiday Trail of Lights that you can enjoy on a Wagon Ride. We also provide free self-serve Ornament decorating, and if you're interested, Face Painting and Balloons are available for an additional cost.

Santa's Village at the Omaha Children's Museum- Where: Omaha Children's Museum- When: Saturday, December 10, 10 AM – 4 PM

Bring the little ones to Santa's Village at the Omaha Children's Museum! Meet Santa, enjoy festive crafts, and explore the magic of the season with interactive exhibits. A day of joy for the whole family!

Holiday Lights Winter’s Wonderful Gifts- Where: Bensen Theater- When: December 7-17

Holiday Lites is an annual production by Brigit Saint Brigit that celebrates the diverse customs and celebrations of the year-end season. It is a collaborative effort between Benson Theatre and Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre Company, combining technological artistry with immersive charm to create a magical and eclectic evening of live theatre. The lineup includes a mix of touching, humorously irreverent, classical, and original performances, featuring both audience favorites and brand-new creations. It is a truly unique and enjoyable experience for all.

Holiday Poinsettia Show- Where: Lauritzen Gardens- When: Sunday, December 11, 9 AM – 5 PM

Experience the vibrant colors of the season at the Holiday Poinsettia Show in Lauritzen Gardens. Stroll through a stunning display of poinsettias, enjoy seasonal music, and revel in the botanical beauty.

Candy Cane Cruise on the River City Star -Where: River City Star-When: Sunday, December 11, 1 – 2 PM

Set sail on a sweet adventure! The Candy Cane Cruise on the River City Star promises a delightful journey along the river with holiday treats, hot cocoa, and, of course, candy canes for all. A festive river experience for the whole family!

Holiday Jam 2023- Where: CHI Health Center Omaha- When: Sunday, December 11, 6:30 PM Wrap up your weekend with a musical treat at Holiday Jam 2023! The CHI Health Center Omaha will be alive with holiday tunes, featuring an incredible lineup of artists. Get ready to sing along and feel the magic!

Share the joy, tag your friends, and let the festivities begin!

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!

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Keep your Pets Safe During the Holidays

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

During the holiday season, it's important to take precautions to keep your pets safe and healthy. With all the festivities and potential hazards, it's easy for accidents to happen. By following these tips, you can ensure that your winter holiday season remains joyful for both you and your furry friend in Omaha.

Plan in advance

It is important to be prepared for emergencies by knowing the location of your 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic. Discuss this with your veterinarian in advance and plan your travel route ahead of time. Keep the clinic's contact numbers easily accessible in case of emergencies.

Your veterinarian's clinic phone number
24/7 emergency veterinary clinic (if different)
ASPCA Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661

Food

It is important to keep people food away from pets and to inform others to do the same. If you wish to give your pets holiday treats, ensure they are specifically made or bought for them. There are certain people foods that pose a significant danger to pets:

Chocolate is a common treat during holidays, but it can be toxic to pets. It is important to remember that all chocolate should be off limits for dogs and cats, as the harm it can cause depends on factors such as the type of chocolate, the size of the pet, and the amount consumed.
Other Sweets - It is important to keep other sweets and baked goods out of reach from pets. These treats are often too rich for them and may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol. Xylitol has been linked to liver failure and death in dogs.
It is important to keep table scraps, such as gravy, sauces, dressing, and meat or poultry fat or skin, away from pets. These foods can be difficult for pets to digest, especially during the holidays when our diets tend to include extra-rich foods. They can even cause pancreatitis. Additionally, bones can pose a choking hazard or lead to intestinal blockage. It is worth noting that many foods that are healthy for people, such as onions, raisins, and grapes, are actually poisonous to pets.
Unbaked yeast dough can cause problems for pets, including painful gas and potentially dangerous bloating.

Quick action can save lives. If your pet exhibits sudden behavior changes, depression, pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, it may have consumed something it shouldn't have. In such cases, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian or nearest veterinary emergency clinic without delay. Additionally, you may consider reaching out to the ASPCA Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661), noting that there may be a fee involved.

Decorating

Holiday plants, lights, candles, and other decorations can make the holidays festive, but they also pose risky temptations for our pets.

Ornaments pose risks to pets. Breakable ones can cause injuries, while swallowed ones can lead to intestinal blockage or illness. It is important to keep all ornaments, including those made from salt-based dough or other food-based materials, out of pets' reach.
Tinsel, ribbons, wreaths, and other decorations can be dangerous for pets. If swallowed, they can cause choking or blockages in their intestines.
Christmas trees - To prevent accidents, secure your Christmas tree to the ceiling or a doorframe using fishing line. This will help prevent tipping if pets climb on it or try to play with the lights and ornaments.
Water additives for Christmas trees can pose a hazard to pets if ingested. Therefore, it is strongly advised to refrain from adding any substances to the water if there are pets in the household.
Electric lights can cause burns when a curious pet chews the electrical cords.
Candles and oil lamps - It is important to be cautious when using candles and oil lamps around pets. Leaving a pet alone in an area with a lit candle or lamp can lead to a fire.
Flowers and festive plants - It's important to be cautious with flowers and festive plants around pets. Certain plants like poinsettias, amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar, and holly can be harmful and potentially poisonous if ingested by dogs and cats. The ASPCA provides comprehensive lists of plants that are toxic to pets.
Potpourris - It is important to keep potpourris out of reach of pets, especially inquisitive ones. Liquid potpourris can be particularly dangerous as they contain essential oils and other ingredients that can cause severe damage to a pet's mouth, eyes, and skin. Non-liquid potpourris, which often contain flowers, leaves, bark, herbs, and/or spices, could also cause issues if ingested by a pet.

Keep your pets safe with these tips and make sure you have a memorable holiday season.

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!

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Happy Thanksgiving from The Heim-Berg Team!

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

Sending our warmest Thanksgiving greetings from The Heim-Berg Team. We appreciate your continued support!

If you need a bit of help with your Thanksgiving meal, here are some local options in Omaha to help you make this the best Thanksgiving Day ever!

Restaurants in Omaha Open on Thanksgiving Day

Astoria Indian Restaurant, 5010 S. 108th St, Omaha; 402-934-5054

Beacon Hills 6750 Mercy Rd, Omaha; 402-933-3115

Cascio’s Steakhouse 1620 S 10th St, Omaha; 402-345-8313

Cracker Barrel 9409 S. 142nd St., Omaha (other locations also available); 402-891-8665

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 140 Regency Parkway., Omaha; 402-393-0811

J. Gilbert’s 1010 Capitol Ave. Omaha; 531-222-9218

Johnny’s Cafe 4702 S 27th St, Omaha; 402-731-4774

Orleans Room Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel 302 S. 36th St. Omaha; 833-404-6981

Sullivan’s Steakhouse 222 S. 15th St., Omaha; 402-342-0077

Texas de Brazil 1110 Capitol Ave, Omaha; 402-783-8074

Dine-at-Home Without the Fuss

Baker’s

Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering

Catering Creations

Cracker Barrel

HyVee

Jerico’s

Small Cakes

Vala’s

Village Inn

Whole Foods

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

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!

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What Can You Do About Hidden Mold in Your Omaha Home?

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

Approximately 70% of houses nationwide are affected by mold, indicating that this issue is widespread and not to be underestimated. It is important to acknowledge that even if you believe your Omaha home is safe, the reality is that mold can easily be introduced and thrive under suitable conditions.

Hidden mold in the house can be a challenging problem to address, particularly when you can detect its presence through its distinct odor but cannot visually locate it. In such cases, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further mold growth and potential health risks. Here are some steps you can take to deal with hidden mold:

Identify the Source of Mold

While you can't see the mold, you can certainly identify what's causing it.

To identify the cause of mold in your house, conduct a thorough inspection for signs of water damage. Look for leaks, water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Don't forget to check poorly ventilated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Address Water Issues

If you notice any water leaks, it is important to address them promptly. This may require fixing roofs, pipes, or windows. To prevent the growth of mold, make sure there is adequate ventilation in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Isolate Affected Areas and Clean

To prevent the spread of spores, it is important to isolate the affected areas where mold is found. However, it is crucial to note that there are likely many hidden spores throughout the entire house, contributing to the mold problem.

To protect yourself and prevent spreading mold spores, put on personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles, and a mask. Use mold-killing solutions like hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or commercial mold cleaners to clean your home. Scrub with a stiff brush.

Remove Mold-Infested Materials

When encountering heavily contaminated drywall or insulation, it is important to note that these materials cannot be effectively cleaned. In such cases, proper disposal is necessary.

Make sure to dispose of these items properly by securely bagging them in a thick trash bag. It's a good idea to double-bag for added protection. Once bagged, wrap and tape the opening to ensure it stays closed.

Consider Professional Remediation

If visible mold cannot be found or if there is a severe infestation, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A mold remediation company can locate and remove the sources of mold, ensuring that your home is safe to live in. It is important to note that not everyone is physically capable of cleaning mold due to health reasons.

Sell Your House

Selling your house can be a wise choice in certain situations. If your property is plagued by severe mold and other significant problems, it may be best to sell it and move on. Fortunately, there are buyers who will purchase your house in its current condition, providing you with a quick source of cash. This can be an excellent opportunity to make money swiftly. Of course, you can count on The Heim-Berg Team to help you if you decide to go that route.

Take Care of Hidden Mold in the House

Hidden mold in your Omaha home can have serious health implications, making it crucial to address any suspicions of infestation. Although there are DIY methods to combat mold, opting for professional mold remediation services is often the best choice. In severe cases, selling your home may be worth considering. For additional tips on maintaining a safe and comfortable home, explore our many blog articles on this site.

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!

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Find the Perfect Gift at These Omaha Holiday Markets

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

It's time to get shopping for the holidays at our local Omaha holiday markets! They start this week so you can get a jump on finding the perfect gifts for the season.

Handmade Omaha Holiday Art & Craft Show

November 25, 26
Bancroft Street 2702 S 10th St

Saturday, Nov. 25th from 10am-4pm
Sunday, Nov. 26th from Noon-4pm
Free parking and free admission

Midtown Merry Market

November 12
11 am to 4 pm
Empire Room at Midtown Crossing

Make merry – with local makers and vendors!

Join us for festivities & drinks for our fifth annual Midtown Merry Market! Shop 30 local makers and vendors – hand-poured candles and soaps, hand-lettered signs and products, coffees and teas, trendy clothing, live instrumental Christmas music and much more.

The weekend also marks the start of Turner Park's annual “Season of Lights” with dozens of trees and thousands of lights glowing at dusk each evening through he season. You won't want to miss this spectacle!

RALB Holiday Market

November 18
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ralston High School

Shop from 80+ vendors from a selection of handmade items, unique gifts, home decor, art, jewelry, accessories, boutique items, novelties, food vendors, and more! The first 50 shoppers receive a free swag bag. Suggested donation is $3 at the door.

Holiday Modern Market

November 25, 26
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
DC Centre 11830 Stonegate Dr, Omaha

Get your holiday shopping down with vendors from more than 35 local shops. This is a fun, family-friendly event. Get a professional photograph with Santa.

Valla’s Thanksgiving Market

November 22, 23

Browse the market for gifts and holiday treats. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard will have a pop-up market in our Exit Barn, the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving! Stop by to browse our gift shop, sample hard ciders, and buy your favorite fall treats! Reserve your favorite foods online for pick-up, or drop in to shop day-of.

Handmade Omaha Holiday Arts & Crafts

November 25, 26
Bancroft Street Market

Saturday, Nov. 25th from 10am-4pm
Sunday, Nov. 26th from Noon-4pm
Free parking and free admission

Millard South Craft Fair

November 25
9 am to 3 pm
Millard South High School

Support local vendors and artists.

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!

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5 Common Issues to Avoid When Building a Home in Omaha

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

by Nancy Heim-berg

When building a home in Omaha, it's important to be aware of common construction issues to avoid. By staying proactive, you can save time, money, and ensure a smooth experience. Here's an overview of the most common issues to watch out for during the home building process.

Poor Budgeting

Poor budgeting is a common issue in construction. Building a home is generally cheaper than buying a pre-built one, but many homeowners underestimate the cost. They often overlook major expenses and forget about smaller ones like legal fees and warranties. Unforeseen expenditures are also common.

It's recommended to have a contingency budget of 10-25% to account for changing costs. To budget effectively, start by creating a home building checklist and doing thorough research on the accurate costs involved.

An Unsuitable Location

When it comes to building a new home, choosing the right location is crucial. The wrong choice can result in major construction issues. There are several factors to consider when deciding on the best location for your home construction.

Before purchasing land for construction, it is important to consider the soil condition and water table. Testing the soil quality will ensure a suitable foundation can be laid. Additionally, determining the water table height is crucial as it may require costly dewatering measures.

Thirdly, during new home building, ask if the area is prone to flooding and water damage. Visit the site during the rainy seasons to assess drainage. Also, avoid sloppy regions, as you need to level the surface. Finally, consider the accessibility of the area and proximity to essential amenities such as powerlines, water, gas, etc.

Not Hiring Reputable Professionals

To ensure the smooth and timely execution of the project, it is essential to have a team of professionals with diverse expertise. This team should include builders, architects, engineers, interior designers, surveyors, contractors, and more. By assembling the right team, you can ensure that the project is completed efficiently and within budget.

When looking for service providers, it's important to do thorough research. Take your time and consider recommendations from other homeowners or check online. This will help you find reputable options and avoid potential construction issues.

When selecting a home builder, it is important to gather as much information as possible to ensure their credibility. Take the time to read through both positive and negative reviews from various sources to get a comprehensive understanding of their reputation. By doing so, you can make a more accurate assessment of their credibility.

Then, narrow down to 1-3 contractors for each category. Contact them for quotes and references to help you narrow down further. Conduct interviews with the most suitable candidates and hire the ones that come up as the best fit.

Poor-Quality Materials

Using poor-quality materials in construction can have serious consequences. These materials weaken the structural integrity of the building, making it vulnerable to damage from rain, wind, and earthquakes.

Additionally, they often have a shorter lifespan, leading to frequent and costly repairs. Functional and aesthetic issues may also arise. Moreover, poor-quality materials can pose safety hazards and result in legal and regulatory problems if they don't meet building codes and standards.

To avoid these issues, it is important to consult with professionals and use high-quality products that adhere to regulations. Regular quality control checks and sourcing materials from reputable suppliers are also crucial.

Not Adhering to All Applicable Regulations

The building and construction regulations differ from state to state, with some being more widely known than others. It's important to be aware of these regulations to avoid potential fines, construction delays, and approval issues for future projects.

To ensure compliance, consult your home builder and reach out to your local government for specific information on the regulations and codes that apply to your new home building project.

When building your home in Omaha, it's crucial to avoid costly mistakes. To ensure a smooth construction process, make sure to address key issues such as choosing the right location, budgeting properly, using high-quality materials, and following all applicable regulations. Before hiring a home builder, take the time to read reviews to make an informed decision.

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!

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