When buying a home in Omaha and getting a mortgage, you will hear the term "escrow" mentioned frequently. An escrow is a legal arrangement where a third party holds money or property until a specified condition is fulfilled, such as completing the home purchase as outlined in the agreement.

Escrow protects buyers and sellers during the transaction. The escrow account also holds funds for homeowner's insurance and taxes associated with the mortgage.

There are two types of escrow accounts in real estate: The first holds your good faith deposit to ensure it goes to the right party based on the sale conditions. The second holds funds to cover property taxes and homeowner's insurance.

Escrow Accounts for Buying a House in Omaha

When buying a house, you'll sign a purchase agreement that usually includes earnest money, also known as a good faith deposit, to demonstrate your serious intent to purchase the property. This deposit typically involves providing a personal check for 1-2% of the offer price when making the offer, although it may be higher depending on market conditions.

If the home purchase goes through as planned, the deposit will be applied to the down payment as the buyer. However, if the contract falls through due to the buyer's fault, the seller will likely retain the deposit. The buyer will receive the deposit back if their offer is rejected.

The funds may be held in escrow past the home sale as an escrow holdback. This can happen for various reasons, like issues found during the final walkthrough. For a new home purchase, the money stays in escrow until the buyer approves the work. Once conditions are met, the escrow funds are released.

Taxes and Insurance

After purchasing a home, your lender establishes an escrow account to pay your insurance premiums and property taxes. When the closing is finalized, the mortgage servicer allocates part of your monthly mortgage payment into this account, retaining the funds until it is time to disburse payments for insurance and taxes.

Your escrow payments may change yearly, as your property tax bill and insurance premiums often fluctuate annually. To calculate your escrow payment amount for the upcoming year, your mortgage servicer reviews what was paid from your escrow account in the previous year. They then add a cushion of at least two extra mortgage payments to ensure enough funds will be available to cover any increases in your taxes and insurance.

Lenders will analyze an escrow account annually to ensure they are not collecting too little or too much. If the analysis shows the lender collected too much for taxes and insurance, they will refund the excess amount to you. However, if the lender collected too little, you may need to cover the difference.

Who Manages These Accounts?

If you’re buying a house, an independent third party such as a mortgage service company, title company, or real estate agent will likely manage the escrow account containing your deposit. The escrow company, acting as a neutral intermediary between buyer and seller, will hold the deposit, deed, and other sale documents until the transaction closes. The buyer and seller typically split escrow fees.

Your mortgage servicer manages your mortgage from the closing until you pay it off. They are responsible for collecting payments, maintaining payment records, and managing your escrow account.

An escrow account does not cover all homeownership expenses. It does not pay for HOA fees, utility bills, or supplemental taxes. Lenders cannot predict if or when you will receive a supplemental tax bill, or how much it will be, so you must budget for these potential expenses separately.

Looking for a new place to host your OWN Super Bowl party next year??  Let’s get together and find your PERFECT paring now!  Give our team of experts a call today, and we’ll get your home plan created.  The Heim-Berg Team- 402-677-9024. 

Beyond simply brightening your Omaha home's appearance, surrounding yourself with houseplants provides numerous health benefits. Even for those without an innate gardening talent, a plant or two can offer advantages such as improved air quality, reduced stress, and increased creativity.

Reduce Stress

With the lingering stress of the pandemic and remote work, we could all use a little less anxiety in our lives these days.

According to a study in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, having plants in your home or office can help you feel calmer and more comfortable.

Indoor gardening can lower blood pressure and heart rate, as well as reduce psychological and physiological stress levels, due to the calming presence of plants.

Researchers have proposed several theories to explain how plants can reduce stress. For instance, the sight of plants may evoke thoughts of being outdoors, fostering patience. Admiring your plants can also cultivate mindfulness.

Immune System Boosters

Plants can strengthen your immune system in several ways. Firstly, if plants help you feel more relaxed, you are more likely to get high-quality sleep, which boosts immunity.

Plants release airborne chemicals and phytoncides into the air that can boost your immune system. A 2002 research review discovered that patients recovering from surgery needed less pain medication and had shorter hospital stays when surrounded by plants during their recovery.

Better Productivity

When you surround yourself with plants at home and at work, you may find increased productivity and creativity. The presence of living greenery can provide a pleasing focal point, uplifting your mood and ability to concentrate.

In 2004, researchers conducted a study in which participants were asked to make creative word associations. The researchers found that participants who had plants in the room with them performed better on this task. A follow-up study in 2007 similarly showed that people with plants in their workspaces were more productive and took fewer sick days.

Air Quality Improvements

Houseplants can absorb toxic substances like formaldehyde and benzene that pollute indoor air. These pollutants are artificial materials that release harmful gases. Studies show houseplants also reduce dust by up to 20%. NASA recommends 15 to 18 plants for a 1,800 square foot home to maximize air-purifying benefits. Even just one or two plants can improve indoor air quality.

Plants release water vapor through transpiration, which increases humidity levels. This added moisture in the air can improve skin hydration and respiratory health. For those who suffer from headaches, respiratory problems or allergies, surrounding yourself with plants may provide relief.

To maximize the air-purifying benefits, place plants within six to eight feet of where you commonly sit or sleep. Doing so allows you to fully gain from their oxygen production during photosynthesis and carbon dioxide absorption.

When the body has more oxygen, energy levels, concentration, and mood are all likely to improve.

As humans, we have a deep connection to nature. Surrounding yourself with plants indoors in your daily life can help you reconnect with this bond, providing both physical and psychological benefits that are worth exploring.

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If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

When considering a move, Omaha homeowners associations deserve careful attention alongside the home itself, as they can profoundly impact your experience in a neighborhood. Living under the oversight of such an organization has potential advantages, but also notable drawbacks.

Before making an offer, investigate thoroughly to ensure you understand the association's rules and their implications for your lifestyle.

What Is An HOA?

Homeowner associations (HOAs) are governing bodies in many communities. They are commonly found in gated neighborhoods, planned communities, and apartment and condo buildings. HOAs are funded and operated by residents, with oversight by a board of directors.

Homeowners associations (HOAs) hold meetings, draft budgets, and enforce regulations and rules. The rules established by an HOA are legally binding.

When properly managed, homeowners associations (HOAs) can increase Omaha property values by maintaining community standards for home and lawn appearance. However, poorly run HOAs can impose excessive costs and bureaucracy that make homeownership difficult.

Members of Homeowners Associations (HOAs) typically pay monthly, quarterly, or yearly dues to maintain shared amenities like clubhouses, pools, walkways, and lighting. HOA fees range significantly based on location and neighborhood, from as little as $50 a month to several thousand dollars per month.

How Do the Rules of an HOA Work?

If you are considering buying a home in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), it is crucial to thoroughly understand the HOA's rules, known as conditions, restrictions, and covenants.

Most HOA rules govern the exterior appearance of homes, such as lawn maintenance standards and approved paint colors for houses. For condominiums and apartments, HOA rules may also address interior issues like pet ownership.

If you don't follow your Homeowners Association rules, you will first receive a request to comply. Continued noncompliance may result in fines, and further violations could ultimately lead to a lawsuit.

Additionally, if you don’t pay HOA fees, the board can put a lien on your home or even require you to foreclose.

What to Find Out About an HOA Before Buying

If you’re looking at a home with an HOA, the following are things to find out or ask your real estate agent to find out for you:

• To get a sense of the board members' priorities and how they conduct HOA business, try to attend a meeting or, if that's not feasible, request a copy of the meeting minutes. Reviewing the minutes will reveal how the board interacts and whether they prioritize residents' well-being.
• Unless your homeowners association (HOA) maintains good financial standing, you may face unexpected assessments to fund necessary community repairs and improvements.
• Are there are a lot of issues between the board and homeowners?
• You'll need to think about whether the HOA's rules will align with your lifestyle and if you're comfortable with that level of oversight over your home and living space.
• Go over, in detail, what HOA fees will include.

When buying a home in Omaha, remember that HOA fees and restrictions could reduce resale value in the future. Over time, rising HOA fees may price out potential buyers and shrink your pool of prospects when you want to sell.

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

It's mighty cold here in Omaha. But there are some great ways to stay warm this winter. Omaha boast some of the best coffee shops anywhere in the state of Nebraska. So if you're feeling adventurous, try out some of these fine coffee houses and try something new while you warm up.

Howlin' Hounds Coffee

712 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Come and experience premium coffee and service at our coffee shop located at 712 South 16th Street. They offer free Wi-Fi and have ample space available for meetings and other events. Thier goal was to create a welcoming space for their neighbors and friends to gather and enjoy quality time together.

Rally Coffee Co.

749 N 14th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Rally Coffee offers locally roasted coffee and a breakfast menu that focuses on simple quality. Thier belief is in sourcing great coffees that are in season and roasting them in a way that brings out their unique flavor profiles in the cup you drink.

Hardy Coffee Co.

1031 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68102

Cozy nook with exposed brick & a covered patio featuring espresso drinks & live entertainment. Hardy Coffee Co. has four brick and mortar locations in Omaha.

Archetype Coffee

3926 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131

Bare- & brick-walled hangout with outdoor tables preparing coffee, cold brew & espresso drinks. If you want fantastic nitro brew, lattes, or home brewed chai, Archetype is the place to go in Omaha. 

Bad Seed Coffee & Supply

2452 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68131

Bad Seed's mission is to source, protect, and brew coffee in a manner that honors the farmers, excites the consumers, and exceeds expectations. They strive to perfect the nuances that transform a good cup into an exceptional one. Their purpose is to guarantee that the coffee that fills your mug enriches your life.

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If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

Selling your home in the Omaha can be exciting, but the process requires careful planning to ensure it goes smoothly. Avoiding common mistakes will help make your sale efficient and stress-free as you transition to a new home.

1. Setting a price for your home without doing research or working with a real estate agent is a common mistake to avoid. Home values are based on many factors, including comparable sales in your Omaha neighborhood, seasonality, current inventory availability, and more.

2. Avoid the common mistake of pricing your home without research or an agent's guidance. Home values depend on many factors, such as comparable sales in your Omaha neighborhood, seasonality, current inventory, and more.

3. Avoid using odd listing prices that don't align with typical price ranges, as this can make your home harder to find; for example, pricing your $400k home at $402,289 rather than a round $400k could exclude it from searches below $400,000.

4. Overpricing your home because you have more time to sell it is a mistake. Homeowners may think they can list at a higher price and wait for the right buyer who will pay that price. However, the longer a house sits on the market, the fewer showings it will get, making it increasingly difficult to achieve the original asking price.

5. Listing your home at an unrealistically high price, thinking you have plenty of time to wait for the right buyer, is a mistake. While homeowners may believe they can overprice their home and eventually find someone willing to pay that inflated amount, homes tend to get fewer showings the longer they sit on the market. This makes it increasingly difficult to sell the home for its original overpriced asking price.

6. Even in a hot housing market, avoid thinking your home will sell itself. When listing a house, make sure to stage and market it well to attract buyers.

7. Avoid trying to sell your Omaha home without an agent. Studies show that homes for sale without an agent stay on the market longer and sell for less money.

The Heim-Berg Team has the experience you need to help avoid making these selling mistakes. Contact us today to see how we can help you get the best price for your home for sale in Omaha.

As we enter the new year, it's the perfect time to breathe new life into our homes. And what better way to start than by giving well-deserved attention to our often-overlooked floors? Whether you're gearing up for a major makeover or simply replacing worn-out surfaces, 2024 promises an array of exciting flooring trends, transforming your space into a haven of style and comfort.

1. Warm Tile Tones for a Moody Elegance

Step into 2024 with a burst of warmth underfoot! Tile design is turning towards inviting hues like cream, beige, and grey, blending different large formats and tonalities to craft captivating patterns. Jordana Moche, the maestro behind Porcelanosa NYC, predicts a surge in popularity for medium and darker wood-effect tiles and earth-toned flooring. Picture a home with a cozy, moody charm—a true retreat with a touch of hospitality.

2. Retro Carpet Revolution: Nostalgia with a Twist

Hold on to your hats because the carpet revolution is here! Audra Keiber, Mohawk's design and development virtuoso, hints at a retro resurgence in 2024. Like vintage furnishings and retro colorways, carpets are making a stylish comeback. Step away from the mundane gray and embrace the unique patterns and warm tones of this nod to nostalgia. Our top pick? The upcoming Karastan release, Stitchery, weaves a classic herringbone pattern with traditional colorways for a truly inspiring finish.

3. Familiar Farmhouse Flooring with a Modern Twist

The modern farmhouse style still reigns supreme in 2024. According to Adam Vester, Mohawk's design maven, farmhouse trends are evolving towards warm minimalism with Scandinese influences. Raw textures and organic forms meet Scandi minimalism, creating a visually clean backdrop that transforms living spaces into soft-spoken retreats. Embrace the familiarity of farmhouse flooring with a modern, sophisticated twist.

4. Innovative Sustainable Floors: A Green Revolution

Eco-conscious living takes center stage as sustainability and inclusivity drive flooring choices. Audra Keiber emphasizes Mohawk's commitment to sustainability, introducing innovative bio-based flooring alternatives. Expect clean, renewable, and sustainable materials to take the lead in 2024. Join the green revolution and explore flooring options that align with your values.

5. Hardwood Floors Reign Supreme in Kitchens

In 2024, we'll see kitchens graced by the enduring elegance of hardwood floors. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, unveils the trend, with a quarter of renovating homeowners opting for stained or unstained hardwood. Get ready for smooth surfaces, raw wood tones, and wide planks. While lighter hues make waves, rustic wood's earthy charm remains a steadfast favorite. Dive into the classic herringbone pattern for an elegant and classy appearance.

6. A Nod to Nostalgia Across Hard Surfaces

Nostalgia isn't confined to carpets alone—hard surfaces are joining the trip down memory lane in 2024. Adam Vester reveals a trend characterized by clean lines and a pared-back aesthetic. Visualize wood and laminate flooring with enhanced wood looks, featuring more minor character knots. This fusion of midcentury modernism with retro seventies vibes and futuristic elements creates an environment that transcends time, offering a sense of timeless elegance.

7. Universal Design for All: Future-Proofing Homes

Homeowners are embracing universal design principles, renovating with everyone in mind. Future-proofing becomes key, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all. Mitchell Parker points out the rising trend of addressing special needs during renovations, focusing on safety. Think nonslip bathroom flooring—a simple yet crucial upgrade that enhances safety for all ages.

In 2024, let your floors tell a story of warmth, nostalgia, and sustainability. Embrace the trends that resonate with your style, and transform your space into a haven of excitement and authenticity. Prepare for a year when flooring becomes the star of your home's design narrative!

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

If you've decided to sell or buy this year...congratulations!  What an exciting time for you. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Call our family team of experts today and we'll get down to business crafting your plan for real estate buying and selling success! 

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!

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!

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