Real Estate Information Archive

10 Expert Tips From the Heim-Berg Team

Spring has arrived in Omaha, and with it comes one of the most active real estate seasons we've seen in years. Today, we want to share tips with you to help you navigate Omaha’s Spring Rush. If you want to buy a home in Omaha, prepare for the challenges of this market. Homes are moving quickly, often receiving multiple offers, with many buyers in competitive situations that they weren't quite prepared for.

We often tell our clients that preparation isn't just helpful in today's Omaha market—it's essential. With over twenty years of experience helping Omaha families find their perfect homes, our team has developed strategies that work even in the most competitive market conditions.

Today, we're sharing our top 10 insider tips to help you navigate Omaha's spring market and succeed in finding and securing the home you truly want. Let's dive in!

1. Move Quickly When You Find "The One"

The Omaha market is moving remarkably this spring, with homes selling in an average of just 22 days, and that timeline is shortening as we head deeper into the season. What does this mean for you as a buyer? When you find a home that checks your boxes, you need to be ready to act immediately.

Nancy's advice to our clients is straightforward: "Don't sleep on it. In today's market, the home you tour in the afternoon could have multiple offers by evening." The Heim-Berg Team helps our clients prepare for this reality by ensuring they've seen enough properties to recognize value quickly and having all paperwork ready so we can submit offers within hours when necessary.

2. Secure Financing Before You Start Shopping

Nothing strengthens your position as a buyer like having solid financing in place. Having your documentation ready before you begin looking at homes puts you ahead of buyers still figuring out their funding. In the current Omaha market, sellers and their agents scrutinize the offer price and the buyer's ability to close the deal.

Getting pre-approved - not just pre-qualified - is non-negotiable in today's market. Our team works with several trusted local lenders who can provide you with a solid pre-approval that gives sellers confidence in your offer. 

3. Leverage Omaha's Affordability Advantage

One of Omaha's greatest strengths as a housing market is its continued affordability compared to national averages. With median home prices around $270,000 (up 8% from last year but still well below national figures), Omaha offers tremendous value, particularly for those relocating from more expensive markets.

The Heim-Berg Team has helped numerous families relocating to Omaha maximize this advantage. Understanding what your dollar can buy in different Omaha neighborhoods is key. Our team's hyperlocal knowledge helps our buyers stretch their budget while still getting the features they truly value.

4. Focus on Location Over Perfection

In any competitive market, perfect homes at perfect prices don't last. The Heim-Berg Team encourages buyers to prioritize location and fundamentals over cosmetic perfection.
The home with the correct location, good bones, and the right floor plan – even if it needs updates – is often the better long-term investment. We help clients recognize solid value by seeing past dated décor or minor fixable issues. Remember, you can change almost anything about a house except its location.

5. Take Advantage of Omaha's Transportation Developments

Omaha has made significant investments in transportation infrastructure over recent years, and savvy buyers are taking note. Areas with good access to major commuter routes or near the expanding transit options are seeing robust demand.

The Heim-Berg Team is knowledgeable about Omaha's transportation developments and how they affect neighborhood desirability. We're seeing particular interest in homes near the new transit corridors. These areas often represent excellent value today with strong appreciation potential tomorrow.

6. Time Your Home Search Strategically

While spring is traditionally busy, the March to June window offers a sweet spot in Omaha real estate. This period typically brings a good balance of inventory and motivated sellers. "Many of the best properties have already been claimed by late summer.
The Heim-Berg Team helps clients develop a strategic timeline for their home search, identifying the optimal periods to find the type of property they seek. Our experience has shown that different property types and price points often follow slightly different market rhythms.

7. Prepare for Competitive Bidding Situations

According to our data and reliable industry sources, Omaha's market competitiveness scores 80 out of 100. Buyers must be mentally and financially prepared for multiple offer situations. This doesn't necessarily mean they'll need to overpay dramatically, but it does require strategy. In our experience, the winning offer isn't just about price—it can be about terms, flexibility, or the seller's confidence in your ability to close smoothly. 

We've successfully guided clients through hundreds of competitive bidding situations. The Heim-Berg Team's negotiation expertise helps buyers craft competitive offers that don't break their budget.

8. Research Neighborhood Growth Potential

Are you aware of Omaha's growing reputation as a tech and business hub and the micro-markets being created within the city? We're seeing some neighborhoods appreciating faster than others. We can help you understand these patterns and identify areas with strong future potential.

We're seeing particular growth near Omaha's expanding employment centers. The neighborhoods surrounding major healthcare facilities, financial service employers, and transportation hubs are experiencing robust demand. The Heim-Berg Team's analysis of these trends helps buyers identify emerging opportunities before they become apparent.

9. Work with Agents Who Tell You the Truth

In a competitive market, you need advisors who will give you straight talk, not just tell you what you want to hear. The Heim-Berg Team has built its reputation on honesty and transparency, even when the truth is challenging.

Sometimes the most challenging part of our job is telling clients when a property is likely to sell above their budget or pointing out issues they may have overlooked in their excitement. However, our clients appreciate our honesty because it ultimately leads to better decisions and successful purchases.

10. Stay Informed About Inventory Trends

Understanding broader market inventory patterns helps you recognize a good opportunity. While Nebraska's housing inventory has increased slightly year-over-year, new listings have decreased, creating an interesting dynamic for buyers to navigate.

We closely track what's on the market and what's coming soon. Our team's extensive network gives our clients access to potential properties before they're widely available, which can be a game-changer in this market. Start your Omaha journey with the Nancy Heim-Berg Team. The Omaha Spring real estate market doesn't have to be intimidating. With the proper preparation, strategies, and team support, you can successfully find and secure the home you want, even in competitive conditions.

The Nancy Heim-Berg Team brings unmatched local expertise, proven negotiation skills, and a genuine commitment to your success. We don't just want to help you buy a house—we want to help you find the right home to support your goals and lifestyle for years.

Ready to start your Omaha home search with confidence? Contact the Nancy Heim-Berg Team today at 402-677-9024 or visit https://www.omahaarealiving.com/ to discover how our personal, customized approach can make all the difference in your home-buying journey.
The Nancy Heim-Berg Team: Your trusted Omaha real estate advisors since 2003.

The Nancy Heim-Berg Team has been helping buyers find their Omaha home for over 30 years. We're currently watching Omaha's real estate market go through significant growing pains. Not long ago, Omaha was known for affordable housing and buyer-friendly conditions.  In recent years, we've seen a considerable drop in the number of active homes for sale in Omaha. Year over year, the impact has created a persistent housing inventory shortage. 

To ensure our client's success, we've responded to these unique challenges by reacting, adapting, and developing innovative new strategies for buying and selling homes. Today, we'll examine what's happening in Omaha's housing market, what it means for buyers and sellers, and how you can confidently navigate these challenging conditions.

First, you need to understand the current Omaha housing inventory situation. The numbers tell a compelling story. As of April 2025, Omaha's housing inventory is approximately 1.2 months—well below the 6-month supply that typically indicates a balanced market. If no new homes were listed, all available homes would sell in just over a month. The shortage is particularly acute in mid-priced homes between $250,000 and $400,000—precisely the range most appealing to first-time buyers and growing families.

Several variables have combined, creating a perfect storm; driving this shortage. First, Omaha's population continues to grow steadily, fueled by our strong job market, quality of life, and reasonable, affordable housing prices compared to coastal cities and other major urban areas. 

In addition, new construction hasn't kept pace with demand, constrained by rising material costs, labor shortages, higher interest rates, and limited developed lots. Finally, many potential sellers have been reluctant to list their homes without having somewhere to move to, creating a circular problem that further constrains inventory.

This market situation has a real impact on buyers and sellers. For buyers, this means facing a market that moves at lightning speed. Homes in desirable areas often receive multiple offers within days—sometimes hours—of listing. The competition has pushed many buyers to make compromises they hadn't anticipated or to extend their home search for months longer than planned.

A recent client shared her experience with one of our Nancy Heim-Berg Team members: She had lost out on four houses before finally getting an accepted offer. Even though they offered above-asking price each time and waived contingencies, which they shouldn't have, she also thanked us and said they might have regretted their desperate decision without our team's guidance.
For sellers, the inventory shortage creates an opportunity to maximize their investment but also poses challenges. Many sellers worry about finding their next home in such a competitive market, and don't want to trade a low-interest mortgage rate for a much higher one, creating hesitation even when selling conditions are ideal.

Our team has developed successful strategic solutions for our home buyers. While the inventory shortage presents challenges, savvy buyers can still successfully navigate Omaha's competitive market with the right approach:

Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. In today's market, sellers and their agents want to see serious buyers with verified financing. A strong pre-approval letter demonstrates you're ready to move forward immediately.

Expand your search parameters. Some of Omaha's most promising neighborhoods don't typically make the headlines. Areas like Benson, Florence, and parts of South Omaha offer character, community, and often more affordable options with growth potential.

Consider properties that need updates. In a market where move-in-ready homes attract fierce competition, properties needing cosmetic updates can represent both value and opportunity. The Nancy Heim-Berg team can help you distinguish between simple cosmetic fixes and potentially costly structural issues.

Work with an agent who has strong professional networks. In inventory-starved markets, many homes sell before ever hitting public listings. The Nancy Heim-Berg team's extensive professional network often provides clients access to properties before they're widely available.

Be prepared to act decisively. Today's market rewards decisive action. Work with your agent to determine your non-negotiables in advance so that when the right property appears, you can move forward with confidence.

For sellers, today's conditions offer significant advantages, but strategic planning remains essential:
Time your sale and purchase carefully. We can advise and guide you as you carefully coordinate the sale of your current home with purchasing your next one. The Nancy Heim-Berg team specializes in helping clients manage this transition smoothly, which is vitally important in these market conditions.

Consider seller leaseback options. You may be unaware of this increasingly popular solution. You can negotiate a short-term leaseback after selling, which gives you time to find and close your next home without the pressure of immediate relocation.

Price strategically, not emotionally. While the market favors sellers, proper pricing remains critical. Overpriced homes still sit on the market, eventually becoming stigmatized by "too many days on the market."  The Nancy Heim-Berg team's will prepare a detailed market analysis ensures you price your home for a fast, successful sale, and maximize the value without deterring qualified buyers.

Prepare for thorough inspections. Today's buyers may be willing to act quickly. Still, they're also investing significant resources and expect properties to be in good condition. Addressing potential issues before the listing can prevent deals from falling apart during the inspection.

Navigating Omaha's challenging inventory situation requires more than understanding market dynamics—it requires experienced, proactive representation from professionals who've successfully guided clients through similar conditions. The Nancy Heim—Berg Team makes the difference, especially in this challenging market.

Traditional approaches often fall short in this market, making it particularly challenging. The Nancy Heim-Berg Team has developed specialized strategies for buyers and sellers to ensure your success in these current, low-inventory conditions. Clients can't react to market conditions; they must anticipate them and position themselves appropriately to win the negotiation in a complex situation.

The Nancy Heim-Berg team brings several critical advantages to clients navigating today's market:
Hyperlocal Market Knowledge: With decades of combined experience in the Omaha market, the team understands neighborhood-specific trends that broader market data doesn't capture.

Extensive Professional Network: From coming-soon listings to off-market opportunities, the team's connections throughout Omaha's real estate community create opportunities other buyers might miss out on.

Creative Problem-Solving: The team's knowledge and experience with many contract structures, contingencies, and negotiation strategies opens possibilities that many agents might overlook. Our innovative solutions result in successful deals for our clients.

Honest Guidance: Emotions can cloud judgment in competitive situations. The Nancy Heim-Berg team provides straightforward advice, even when it means advising clients to walk away from seemingly attractive properties with hidden issues.

While challenging conditions persist, several factors suggest a gradual improvement in Omaha's inventory situation through 2025 and into 2026:
New Construction is Accelerating: Despite challenges, builders have increased production, with several significant developments underway in western and northwestern Omaha. Projects like Heartwood Preserve continue to add inventory, albeit at higher price points than many first-time buyers seek.

Interest Rate Stabilization: As mortgage rates stabilize, some homeowners who felt "locked in" by their current low rates may become more willing to sell and move.

Empty-Nester Movement: Demographic trends suggest more empty-nesters may downsize in the coming years, potentially freeing up family homes in established neighborhoods.

Targeted Development Initiatives: Omaha's housing action plan includes initiatives to increase missing middle housing—townhomes, duplexes, and small multifamily properties—which can help address inventory shortages.

While these factors suggest some market improvement, buyers shouldn't expect an immediate shift. It will still be a while before we see a buyer's market. We anticipate a gradual balancing and market conditions to adjust slowly over the next 12-18 months.

So, what will be your next steps if you consider entering Omaha's real estate market? Whether you're considering buying in today's competitive conditions or strategizing the sale of your home, having expert guidance has never been more valuable.

The Nancy Heim-Berg team offers personalized consultations to discuss your situation and develop a tailored approach to achieving your real estate goals—even in challenging market conditions.
Our team's commitment goes beyond just helping you buy or sell. We're dedicated to ensuring you make decisions that support your long-term financial and personal objectives in a market that can tempt even the most level-headed buyers and sellers into reactive choices.

If you're ready to confidently navigate Omaha's challenging inventory situation, Contact the Nancy Heim-Berg team today.
Phone: (402) 677-9024
Website: https://www.omahaarealiving.com/
FEATURED HOMES FOR SALE

In a market where inventory challenges require experience and creativity, choose the team successfully guiding Omaha residents through today's unique real estate landscape—the Nancy Heim-Berg team.

The Omaha metro area offers unique retirement living options that blend urban amenities with Midwestern charm. Let's explore how our distinct neighborhoods can match your retirement dreams.

Urban Omaha Living: The Downtown Renaissance Downtown Omaha and the Old Market continue their exciting transformation. New luxury condos and renovated historic buildings offer maintenance-free living within walking distance of:

• The Durham Museum and Joslyn Art Museum
• Holland Performing Arts Center
• TD Ameritrade Park
• Award-winning farm-to-table restaurants
• The vibrant Blackstone District

Healthcare accessibility shines with world-class facilities like Nebraska Medicine and Methodist Hospital nearby.

Suburban Gems Omaha's suburbs present compelling alternatives:

• Papillion: Named one of America's best places to retire, featuring Shadow Lake and extensive walking trails
• Elkhorn: Growing community with championship golf courses and active 55+ neighborhoods
• La Vista: Modern developments with emphasis on community gathering spaces
• Bennington: Rural charm meets modern amenities

The West Omaha Advantage West Omaha uniquely bridges urban and suburban living:

• Village Pointe offers upscale shopping and dining
• CHI Health and Methodist Women's Hospital provide excellent medical care
• Extensive trail systems connect neighborhoods
• Regular community events at Zorinsky Lake

Transportation Considerations- While Omaha's public transit is evolving, most retirees find having a car convenient. However, neighborhoods like Dundee and Benson offer walkable alternatives with local shops, restaurants, and services.

Cost Considerations for 2025

• Urban condos: Generally $200,000-$500,000
• Suburban single-family homes: Often provide more space for similar investment
• Property taxes vary significantly by area
• HOA fees in urban buildings vs. suburban maintenance costs

Ready to explore your perfect retirement location in Omaha? Contact The Heim-Berg Team at 402-677-9024 or visit www.OmahaAreaLiving.com. We'll help you find the ideal balance of amenities, lifestyle, and value for your retirement journey, while assisting you in securing top dollar for your beloved family home.

Hey there, Omaha home seekers! If you've been keeping an eye on the real estate market with a mix of excitement and apprehension, I have some great news for you. September 2024 is set to make a big impact on the Omaha housing market, and here's why it's worth your attention.

The Interest Rate Rollercoaster

Remember when mortgage rates were climbing rapidly? Well, those days are over. As of September 2024, we're witnessing a significant drop in mortgage interest rates, and it's welcome news for every potential homebuyer.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Omaha is currently hovering around 5.5%, down from the 6.8% we saw earlier this year. This might not seem like a huge difference, but believe me, it can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

What This Means for You

Let's put it in perspective. For instance, if you're considering a $300,000 home, given the current rates, you could potentially have monthly payments that are $250-$300 lower than they would have been just a few months ago. This could cover a nice dinner or a good chunk of your utility bills each month!

However, it's not just about the monthly savings. Lower interest rates mean you can afford a larger house within your budget. That additional bedroom or the finished basement you've always wanted? They might just be within your reach now.

Why Buy Now?

You may be wondering, "Should I wait for rates to drop even further?" While it's true that no one can predict the future with 100% accuracy, most experts agree that we're in a favorable position right now. Here's why:

• Pent-up demand is increasing: Many buyers who were unable to afford homes earlier this year are now returning to the market. As demand rises, home prices may also increase.
• Inventory is still relatively low: Like many cities, Omaha is still experiencing a housing shortage. Good homes at reasonable prices are selling quickly.
• Seasonal advantage: Fall can be an excellent time to buy. There is less competition than in the spring and summer, and sellers might be more motivated.

Home Buying Tips for September 2024

If you're ready to take the plunge, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Get pre-approved: With rates this good, you'll want to lock in as soon as you find your dream home. Having a pre-approval letter ready to go can give you an edge in negotiations.
• Don't wait too long: While making an informed decision is important, remember that good properties are moving quickly in this market. Be ready to make your move.
• Consider your long-term plans: With rates lowering, it might make sense to evaluate your home size if you're planning on staying put for a while.
• Work with a local expert: The Omaha market has unique qualities. Having a local real estate expert on your side can make all the difference. Plus we partner with the BEST mortgage lender available, who will work with your personal situation & find the best loan package for YOU!

Your Next Steps

The stars are aligning for Omaha homebuyers this September. Lower interest rates and the seasonal advantages of fall buying create a perfect storm of opportunity. But remember, in real estate, timing is everything.

If you're ready to take advantage of these fantastic conditions, we're here to help. The Heim-Berg Team has been guiding Omaha residents through the home buying process for years, and we'd love to help you find your dream home.

Give us a call at 402-677-9024 or visit our website at www.OmahaAreaLiving.com. Let's turn this opportunity into your new home sweet home! Remember, your dream home is out there, and with these rates, it might be more attainable than you think. Happy house hunting, Omaha!

Are you eyeing that perfect home in a beautifully maintained neighborhood? Chances are, it might be part of a Homeowners Association (HOA). While HOAs can offer numerous benefits, they also come with their own considerations. Before you sign on the dotted line, let's dive into what you need to know about buying a home in an HOA community.

What Exactly is an HOA?

First things first: an HOA, or Homeowners Association, is an organization in that makes and enforces rules for the properties and their residents. When you purchase a home in an HOA community, you will automatically become a member and be required to pay dues, known as HOA fees.

The Pros of HOA Living

1. Maintained Common Areas: HOAs often care for community spaces, potentially including pools, parks, and clubhouses.
2. Consistent Neighborhood Appearance: Rules about property upkeep can help maintain property values.
3. Dispute Resolution: HOAs can mediate conflicts between neighbors.
4. Amenities: Many HOAs offer amenities like fitness centers or community events.
5.  

The Potential Drawbacks

1. Costs: HOA fees can add significantly to your monthly housing expenses.
2. Restrictions: There may be rules, from paint colors to pet ownership.
3. Special Assessments: You might face unexpected costs for major repairs or improvements.
4. Less Control: Some homeowners feel they need more support in what they can do with their property.

Key Considerations Before Buying

1. Review the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) 📚

This document outlines all the HOA's rules and regulations. Read it carefully, and be sure you are comfortable with all the restrictions.

2. Examine the Financial Health of the HOA 💰

• Request and review the HOA's financial statements
• Check if there's an adequate reserve fund for future major expenses
• Ask about the history of special assessments
• 3.Understand the Fee Structure 💸
• What do the fees cover?
• How often can fees be increased, and by how much?
• Are there any planned increases shortly?
• Investigate the HOA's Management 🏢
• Is it self-managed or run by a professional management company?
• What's the reputation of the HOA among current residents?Check the Insurance Coverage 🛡️

Understand what's covered by the HOA's master policy and what you'll need to insure separately.

Attend an HOA Meeting 🤝

If possible, attend a meeting to get a sense of how the HOA operates and what issues are currently being discussed.

Review Recent HOA Minutes and Newsletters 📰

It's important to review these frequently for insight into issues and projects, both ongoing and upcoming, affecting the community.

Understand the Approval Process 📝

Learn how modifications to your home (like additions or exterior changes) are approved.

Ask About Pet Policies 🐾

If you have pets or plan to get them, understand any restrictions or rules.

Consider Resale Value 📈

While HOAs can help maintain property values, very restrictive HOAs might limit your pool of potential buyers in the future.

The Bottom Line

Living in an HOA community can offer numerous benefits, from maintaining common areas to creating a sense of community. However, going into the purchase with your eyes wide open is crucial. Understanding the rules, financial obligations, and potential restrictions will help you decide whether HOA living is right for you.

Remember, every HOA is different. What works for one homeowner might not work for another. That's why it's essential to do your homework and ask plenty of questions before deciding.

Need Help Navigating HOA Communities?

Buying a home in an HOA community can be complex, but you don't have to go through it alone. At The Heim Berg Team, we have extensive experience helping buyers find their perfect home, whether it's in an HOA or not. We can guide you through the process, help you understand the implications of HOA living, and ensure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your future.

Ready to explore your options? Let's talk about finding your dream home – HOA or no HOA!

Contact The Heim Berg Team today:

• 📞 Phone: 402-677-9024
• 🌐 Website: www.OmahaAreaLiving.com

Your perfect home is out there; we're here to help you find it!

If you are starting the journey of buying a new house the excitement of what’s to come can be all consuming. Everything from interior design to landscaping to paint colors - a whole new world is in your future. 

However, you have to remain practical and keep in mind that the first big step of the process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage, and your actions prior to the lender agreeing to fund the loan are important. Knowing this, we have listed five things you should avoid doing up until closing day. Let’s dive in:

-Because overusing credit can be a red flag, you want to make sure to keep your available credit as high as possible - which means keeping low balances on any lines of credit you have open. Essentially, you don’t want to buy all new furnishings for your new home before your loan closes.

-Making mysterious deposits or withdrawals is another action you want to avoid as the lender will keep a close eye on your bank statements during the pre-approval and underwriting process. There will need to be an explanation for unusual activity so it’s best to avoid large deposits or withdrawals that don’t normally take place. 

-Being late with bills before closing can really hurt you, and potentially even ruin your deal. Some lenders will require 12 months of consecutive on-time payments in order to qualify for a loan as roughly a third of your credit score is comprised of your payment history.

-It’s best to avoid co-signing a loan and making yourself financially liable for someone else’s debt during the loan process. Lenders will see this as another financial obligation which will be a factor when they determine your ability to take on a mortgage. 

-Changing jobs is another action you shouldn’t take during the approval process because lenders want to see reliable, stable income. Job-hoping can create hurdles for you and raise red flags. 

Be sure to check back each week for more real estate and Omaha, NE community information! Also, are you following us on Facebook? If not, be sure to check us out here! 

Buying a house is the largest purchase most people will make in their lifetime. And while the internet is a wonderful place to find information when it comes to home buying, there is also a lot of information out there that is misleading or downright not true. In today’s blog post we are going to be discussing four common myths about home buying - let’s dive in: 

1. The first myth that we are debunking is that you need a 20% down payment. While sometimes this is true and putting that much down can have its benefits, you don’t always need that much to buy your dream home. There are some loan programs that allow for half of that, or even less. 

2. The second myth that we are busting is that you have to be completely out of debt before you are able to own a home. Yes, that means if you are carrying student loans or other forms of debt, you could still qualify. Mortgage underwriters like to see you using and managing credit responsibly, so ensuring your payments are made on time is crucial. 

3. Piggybacking off our last myth, number three is that your credit score needs to be perfect to buy a home. Of course having a good credit score will only help you, but don’t stress if its not great. For a conventional loan approval, the minimum FICO credit score is around 620. 

4. The last myth we are exposing is that it is cheaper to rent than to own. In the short term there may be some truth to this statement, however if you plan on renting for a few years or longer, it could be in your best interest to put that money towards an asset you own. Renting is a great option for someone who moves around a lot, but if you are planning to stay in one place for a while buying can be a great option. 

Have other home buying questions and/or myths you want to discuss? Contact our experienced team today and let us help you find your perfect home in Omaha, NE! 

It is no secret that buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you will make in your lifetime. And with the right real estate agent and professional guidance, it can also be one of the most exciting times for you and your family as you navigate the home buying process. 

There are a lot of factors to consider when you begin looking at potential homes in Omaha, NE, which is why we have outlined some things for you to look for and think about when you begin your search:

How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need for the next decade – are you planning on growing your family, do you have children leaving for college soon, will you be caring in-home for elderly parents, do you need a home office or gym? These are all factors to consider when figuring out your ideal bedroom and bathroom count. 

Does your current (or future) situation call for a single-story home?
If you have anyone in your household that will have an issue utilizing a staircase then it may be better to opt for a single-story home. This may include small children, elderly parents, guests with physical limitations or if you simply are planning on growing older in the home yourself and foresee a staircase being an inconvenience. 

How much storage space do you need?
Storage space can be an afterthought for many people when it comes to looking for a home – that is, until they move in! If you are someone who needs a lot of storage it is important to note that for your realtor prior to your search. You can also always get creative and find different ways to create storage areas if needed, but it is important to have that on your list if it’s important to you. Also, be sure to take into consideration garage space if you need to accommodate multiple vehicles. 

What does your ideal yard look like? 
Some people dream of a spacious backyard to host summer BBQ’s and birthday parties, others want a low maintenance property with little upkeep. And some families fall in the middle. 

What are you looking for in a neighborhood?
What neighborhood you live in can impact many things such as commute times, school districts, distance to local conveniences, walkability, accessibility to amenities, etc. It is important to think about this off the bat, so you don’t waste time touring potential homes in areas that do not meet your needs and wants. 

Do you want to do repairs and renovations? 
Some people are open to (and even get excited about) the thought of home repairs and renovations as it allows them to put their own personal touch and incorporate their style into the property. Others run far and fast when renovations are muttered in a sentence and want a move-in ready home. Which do you prefer? 

Whether you relocating to Omaha, NE or simply moving neighborhoods, be sure to check out our Home Buying Tips page here!

If you are looking to move into a new neighborhood you understand what an exciting and fun time it can be for you and your family. A fresh chapter brings new experiences, exciting adventures and endless memories that will stay with you forever. But along with all the exciting things also come aspects that you want to be sure to look into before making the big move. Below we have listed a few things that you want to make sure to look into while you begin your search for your new home. We hope this brings you some insight and helps make the journey a little easier and sweater for you!

One thing you will want to make sure to check out are the local conveniences such as the nearest grocery store, bank, and specialty stores. Make a mental note of places you visit frequently and map where they are in relation to your desired neighborhood. This may not seem like a big factor to take into consideration when moving, but you will find it will make a huge impact on your day to day life. Another thing to look into are places such as hospitals, doctors’ offices and pharmacies so you know how quickly you can access these locations in the event of an emergency. If you want peace of mind knowing you have a hospital up the road then you may not want to fall in love with a neighborhood that is far from one.

If you have children, which school district you fall into may be a high priority for you and your family. You want to look at things such as where the district falls in terms of academics and teacher ratings, as well as athletic programs. And lastly, you want to be sure to check out how far you are from local entertainment and restaurants. If you want to be able to bring your children to a local park before dinner time or have a quick date night with your husband/wife on Friday nights, then you want to ensure that you are situated in an area that has these conveniences nearby.

We understand that buying a home can be a very exciting time! As your mind wanders from room to room, you think of what décor you will use, what paint colors will dance on the walls and what colorful plants you will line the front walkway with. But understanding the structure and how well the home was maintained and built is also very important as it can help alleviate potential costly repairs in the future. Below we have listed a few items to watch out for, especially if you are a first-time home buyer, that can serve as warning signs for potential issues. 

Roof:
-Singles that are cracked, missing, curled or warped 
-Substantial wear and tear
-Materials that do not match

Plumbing:
-Leaking faucets
-A terrible odor
-Low water pressure
-Water stains that appear around the tub, toilet or under sinks

Foundation: 
-Any cracks that appear in the sidewalks, driveway or walls
-Doors inside the home that have large gaps at the top or jam up
-Crooked windows and doorways
-Unleveled floors 

Electrical:
-Visible signs of electrical tape
-Lights that flicker when turned on
-Exposed wires