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What is a Home Loan Estimate?

by Nancy Heim-berg

Embarking on the journey of homeownership in Omaha is an exciting venture, filled with aspirations and also, understandably, a fair share of complexities. Among the myriad of paperwork and financial considerations, one document stands out for its critical role in the home-buying process: the Home Loan Estimate. This document is a beacon of clarity for prospective homeowners, illuminating the path ahead with vital information about the proposed mortgage.

The Home Loan Estimate is a standardized form, a product of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) efforts to make mortgage terms and costs transparent and comparable across different lenders. It is a three-page document that succinctly outlines the key aspects of a mortgage offer, allowing borrowers to understand and evaluate the terms and costs associated with their potential home loan.

Let's delve deeper into the components of the Loan Estimate and why they matter:

1. Loan Terms: This section is the cornerstone of the Loan Estimate, detailing the loan amount, interest rate, and monthly payments. It indicates whether the loan is a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage and informs the borrower of any prepayment penalties or potential balloon payments. Understanding these terms is crucial as they determine the long-term financial commitment of the borrower.

2. Projected Payments: Here, the estimate provides a forecast of how the monthly payments may evolve over the life of the loan. It includes projections for principal and interest, as well as estimated escrow payments for property taxes and homeowner's insurance. This section helps borrowers anticipate changes in their payments and plan their finances accordingly.

3. Costs at Closing: This part of the document breaks down the closing costs associated with the mortgage. It includes lender fees, title fees, and prepaid expenses such as homeowners insurance or property taxes. These costs can significantly impact the initial outlay required at closing, making this section a critical part of the borrower's financial planning.

The Loan Estimate serves not only as a summary of the mortgage offer but also as a comparative tool. By obtaining Loan Estimates from multiple lenders, Omaha borrowers can compare the costs and terms side-by-side, empowering them to make an informed choice and potentially negotiate better terms.

It is important for borrowers to receive their Loan Estimate promptly. The CFPB mandates that lenders must provide this document within three business days of receiving a mortgage application. If there are significant changes to the loan terms during the process, the lender is obligated to issue a revised Loan Estimate, ensuring that borrowers are always informed of the most current terms.

As the home-buying process progresses, the Loan Estimate becomes a precursor to another critical document: the Closing Disclosure. This document finalizes the terms of the mortgage, and borrowers should meticulously compare it with their Loan Estimate to confirm that the terms have not changed unfavorably.

In essence, the Loan Estimate is a powerful tool in the hands of the borrower. It encapsulates the financial details of a mortgage offer, providing transparency and facilitating informed decision-making. It is a testament to the importance of understanding the financial implications of a mortgage and the empowerment of borrowers through information.

In conclusion, the Loan Estimate is more than just a document; it is a roadmap for prospective Omaha homeowners, guiding them through the financial landscape of purchasing a home. It ensures that borrowers are equipped with the knowledge to secure a fair and suitable mortgage, laying the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling homeownership experience. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, the Loan Estimate is an indispensable part of your home-buying toolkit.

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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! 

What is Escrow When Buying a Home in Omaha?

by Nancy Heim-berg

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. 

Avoid These Mistakes When Selling a Home in Omaha

by Nancy Heim-berg

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.

7 Ways to Avoid Real Estate Scams

by Nancy Heim-berg

Whether you're a first-time Omaha home buyer or an experienced investor, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly incredible deals. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary knowledge and tools to safeguard yourself from common real estate scams.

Utilize the following resources to educate yourself and make informed decisions throughout your property buying journey.

1. Research, Research, Research!

Before you even begin to consider a real estate transaction, arm yourself with knowledge by:

• Researching the market trends.
• Comparing property values.
• Verifying legal requirements specific to your location.

By educating yourself about the property market in Omaha and staying updated on current housing trends, you will not only gain a better understanding of what to expect, but also reduce your vulnerability to scam artists who target the uninformed. One way to do this is through our website and regular blog articles, so make sure you check back every week for more informative articles.

2. Be Wary of Unrealistic Deals

We've all heard the saying, “too good to be true,” and it applies even more so in the real estate world.

Scammers use incredibly low prices and promises of high investment returns to deceive victims. They are even attempting to sell other people's land without their knowledge. To protect yourself, trust your instincts, consult real estate professionals, and seek multiple opinions to avoid being scammed.

3. Work with Reputable Professionals

When it comes to real estate transactions, having the right professionals by your side can make all the difference.

Seek out licensed real estate agents, attorneys, and inspectors with solid reputations.

Scammers often pose as professionals, so verify their credentials and seek referrals from trusted sources before proceeding.

4. Always Inspect the Property

Buying a property sight unseen is strongly discouraged. If a seller refuses an in-person inspection, it is likely a red flag. Real estate fraud is on the rise in 2023, making it even more important to verify the property's authenticity. Insisting on a visit with a certified inspector is recommended to uncover any potential problems and ensure the property is legitimate.

5. Secure, Don't Wire

Be extremely cautious when it comes to wiring funds for a real estate transaction.

Scammers will often push for wire transfers and create urgent scenarios to pressure you into needing to make quick decisions.

Always verify the recipient's information directly and consider using more secure payment methods, especially for large sums of money.

6. Consider Using a VPN

In this day in the digital age, protecting your online interactions is critical. Scammers can exploit insecure connections to access sensitive information and wreak havoc on your property search.

If you’re wondering, “Do I need a VPN?” the answer is yes. A VPN will make it harder for hackers to intercept your data, especially when dealing with financial matters online.

7. Research the Seller

If you're dealing directly with a seller, do your homework on them. Cybercriminals pretend to be distressed homeowners or overseas sellers who need urgent transactions.

The best way to get a better seller identity is by:

  • Looking up property ownership records.
  • Confirming identities.
  • Being wary of sellers who avoid personal interactions or try to rush the process. Don’t let their pushy attitude make your stress levels increase. There’s a reason they’re trying to get you to act fast.

In today's world, there are numerous real estate opportunities available, but it is crucial to be aware of the risks involved. Stay vigilant, gain knowledge, and follow the tips mentioned above, which include prioritizing cybersecurity and using a VPN. By doing so, you can protect your investments and dreams from falling victim to common real estate scams. Remember, being well-informed and making informed decisions is your best defense against these unethical practices.

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!

Do You Need Title Insurance When Buying a Home in Omaha?

by Nancy Heim-berg

When purchasing a home in Omaha, obtaining the title is a crucial step. The title serves as confirmation of your ownership rights for the property acquired from the seller.

Title insurance is an essential safeguard for homebuyers and mortgage lenders, providing protection against potential losses or damages arising from defective titles.

What Title Insurance Covers

A title insurance policy should provide coverage for various potential claims against a title, such as conflicting wills, tax liabilities, and property liens. Numerous scenarios, including code violations and legal complications, can result in title issues.

One potential issue that could arise after purchasing a property is discovering that the seller does not actually have a legal claim to it. Additionally, it is possible to find out that another party is disputing the seller's claim.

Title insurance is a valuable protection against potential title issues. While working with a title company reduces the likelihood of encountering problems, it is important to remember that they can still arise.

Types of Title Insurance

Title insurance is crucial in real estate transactions, with two types available: owner's and lender's. Both provide essential protection for all parties involved.

An owner's title policy is a recommended purchase to safeguard against potential risks. It is not mandatory, but it provides protection against various issues such as conflicting ownership claims, ongoing lawsuits and liens, inaccurate public records, fraud or forgery, and undisclosed easements or agreements that could impact the value or use of a property.

Title insurance is crucial for buyers as it provides peace of mind by addressing potential issues that may arise with a title later on. Even with a title company, there is always a possibility of such issues, making title insurance one of the best ways to protect yourself as a buyer.

The lender's title insurance policy functions similarly to an owner's insurance policy, as it offers protection to the lender against potential losses. This policy provides coverage up to the loan amount, but it does not extend protection to the buyer.

A warranty of title is an alternative to a title insurance policy. It guarantees that the seller has the legal right to transfer property ownership and that no one else can claim the property legitimately. If a claim arises later, the warranty allows the buyer to take legal action against the seller.

The cost of title insurance premiums can vary greatly. However, if you're purchasing the existing owner's policy, the cost may already be included in the property sale.

The biggest takeaway is that title insurance is optional. Whether or not you need to buy it depends on your individual circumstances and risk tolerance.

Having proper coverage for your property is essential to protect yourself from potential financial burdens. Without it, you could find yourself dealing with unpaid property taxes or fines for code violations. As the homeowner, you would be solely responsible for these expenses.

Buying a home or any property can be a stressful process. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and feel confident in the transaction. 

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!

Should You Buy a Second Home in Omaha With Your Home Equity?

by Nancy Heim-berg

Equity in your Omaha home can be a valuable tool for building long-term wealth. By strategically tapping into your home's equity, you have various options to capture its value.

For instance, you can use it to pay off higher-interest debt or make home improvements that enhance your property's worth. Another option is to start a business or invest in the stock market, where potential returns may surpass the interest on your loan.

Another question people commonly have is whether or not they can use their home’s equity to purchase another property.

Can You Use a Home Equity Loan to Buy a House?

Yes, a home equity loan can be used to buy a house. However, it may not always be the best choice. A home equity loan is a second mortgage that allows you to tap into the equity you have in your home, which is the difference between what you owe and what your home is worth. It can be a viable option for purchasing a second home or an investment property, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.

The Upsides

When considering using your home's equity to purchase another property, it is important to determine whether you are buying a second home or an investment property. If your intention is to buy an investment property, utilizing a home equity loan can provide you with additional liquidity and potentially reduce costs.

  • Investing in real estate with equity has the following advantages:
  • You can increase your down payment. When you receive a home equity loan, the cash goes directly toward a down payment. Getting a lower interest rate and a lower monthly payment will allow you to be a more competitive buyer in the current market.
  • Since down payment requirements for second homes can be higher, a home equity loan is a more affordable and convenient way to finance a second home.

Your current home is used as collateral for a home equity loan. You benefit from lower interest rates as a result.

Using your home equity to buy an investment property can help you build wealth. It's important to keep in mind that second homes don't generate income like investments. As a result, you'll be tying up your home in a loan, then taking on another loan, so you need to be financially stable.

The Downsides

The downsides of using equity to buy an investment property do exist. These include:

  • Instead of having an asset, you will have a debt. You'll be converting the remainder of the home you own into a loan. This will mean you have a higher debt.
  • If the market shifts, you will be more vulnerable, as you now own two properties. This doubles your risk. You could end up being upside down in your mortgage if your property values decrease.
  • You could lose both properties if you default on your loan.
  • Since most home equity loans are second mortgages, you could end up having three loans, as you have to combine it with another loan to purchase the home.
  • Due to tax code changes in 2018, your interest payments will likely not be tax-deductible.

The conclusion is that using a home equity loan to buy a second home in Omaha can be a great option. You just need to weigh the pros with the cons and decide if the risk is worth it for your circumstances and goals.

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!

10 Ways to Save for a Down Payment

by Nancy Heim-berg

When buying a home, a down payment is required by any bank or mortgage company. This down payment amount may vary depending on factors such as being a first responder or a first-time homebuyer.

Saving for a home down payment requires a detailed and actionable plan. It is recommended to consult with a mortgage broker or banker to understand available options and identify areas of improvement, such as reducing debt and improving credit score.

Here are some more tips to help you save effectively over the next five years:

  1. Set a specific savings goal: To determine the amount needed for a down payment, it is important to break it down into monthly or yearly targets. This will provide a clear idea of the specific amount that needs to be saved each month.
  2. Create a budget: Take a closer look at your income and expenses to find areas where you can cut back. Track your spending, prioritize essential expenses, and say goodbye to unnecessary or excessive costs.
  3. Automate your savings: Take control of your savings goals with an automatic transfer from your checking account to a dedicated savings account. By setting up this simple system, you'll ensure that a portion of your income is saved before you have the chance to spend it. Don't let your hard-earned money slip through your fingers.
  4. Reduce debt: Take control of your financial future by tackling high-interest debt head-on. Whether it's credit card balances or personal loans, paying off these debts will not only free up more of your hard-earned income for saving, but also improve your credit score. And a better credit score means a better chance of securing a favorable mortgage rate.
  5. Increase your income: Whether it's taking on part-time gigs, diving into freelance projects, or starting your own side business, there are endless ways to earn extra money. And the best part? You can channel these additional earnings straight into your down payment savings, bringing you closer to your dream home with every dollar you make.
  6. Cut back on expenses: Take a closer look at your monthly expenses and find opportunities to trim costs. Think about scaling back on discretionary spending for entertainment, dining out, subscriptions, or shopping. By doing so, you can free up more funds to contribute to your down payment fund.
  7. Save windfalls and bonuses: When unexpected money comes your way - whether it's a tax refund, a bonus, or a generous gift - don't let it slip through your fingers. Instead, consider putting a significant portion of it into your down payment savings.
  8. Housing assistance: There are a variety of local, state, and federal programs available to help you reach your goal of homeownership more quickly. Take advantage of these programs today and make your dream of owning a home a reality.
  9. Invest strategically: If you have a longer time horizon, it's a great opportunity to explore low-risk investment options such as bonds or index funds. These options can help you grow your savings while minimizing potential risks.
  10. Monitor your progress: Regularly monitoring your savings growth is essential to financial success. By assessing your progress, you can make any necessary adjustments to your strategy. Remember to celebrate milestones along the way to keep yourself motivated. Even if you've cut back on eating out, treat yourself and your spouse to a nice dinner to celebrate reaching a savings goal of $20,000.00. Discipline deserves reward!

Saving for a down payment requires time and discipline. It's not easy, but if you want it bad enough, you have to stick to your goals and plans with unwavering determination. The good news is that the payoff can be tremendous. By following these tips and staying committed, you'll be on track to achieve homeownership in no time. Start saving today and make your dream a reality!

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!

Is it Better to Buy a Home in Omaha with Cash?

by Nancy Heim-berg

It's common to hear the term "all-cash buyer" during real estate shows. It's often used as a way to sweeten a deal, but what's the reality? You can buy a house in Omaha with cash or with a mortgage, and each has its own pros and cons.

Buying a House with Cash Is Increasingly Uncommon

You're in the minority if you're able to buy a house with cash. Considering the median home sale price is in the mid-300,000s, most people cannot afford it. In 2020, the National Association of Realtors' Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers estimates that around 87% of home buyers finance their purchase.

There is no requirement that you show up with a suitcase full of cash if you have enough savings to buy a home outright.

What it means is that you're not getting a loan. The money may come from savings, the sale of another property, or the use of investments.

The Upsides of Paying Cash

If you can pay cash for a home, there are undoubtedly some benefits, including:

  • Sellers find you more attractive as a buyer. Right now, this is a big deal. Omaha has a limited inventory of homes and a high demand for them. Bidding wars are inevitable. When making an offer, paying cash can help you be more competitive. That’s preferable to sellers because then they don’t have to worry about what happens if your mortgage financing falls through. A cash-only transaction is also usually faster, so you can get to the closing quicker, which sellers tend to like.
  • You don't have to worry about mortgage payments when you buy a house in cash, but you also won't be paying the interest and fees associated with a home loan.
  • Omaha home buyers who pay cash have lower closing costs because they aren't paying fees associated with mortgages like lender fees.
  • It's not just the seller who benefits from a faster closing. It’s advantageous for the buyer as well. You might be able to close on a home within a week of your offer being accepted. If you buy with a mortgage, it can take a month or more.
  • Once you close, the home really is yours. You don’t have the fear of not being able to make the payments and subsequently losing your home.

The Downsides of Paying Cash

There are a few cons of paying cash for a home that you do have to think about as well.

  • There is no liquid money in your account. Your cash won't be easy to access if you use it all to buy a house.
  • If you invest your money in something other than a house, you could make better returns.
  • The mortgage tax deduction will not be available to you. Your taxable income goes down when you itemize deductions for the first $750,000 of mortgage interest.

Talk to a financial professional before buying a house in cash if you're weighing the option. You can discuss all the different scenarios and how that choice could affect you.

Of course, if you’d still have money in savings or investments after buying a house with cash, then it might make the decision easier.

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!

 

As a first-time homebuyer in Omaha, you've likely been eagerly anticipating this milestone for some time. With pre-approval and a real estate agent secured, it's time to consider what you want in a house. One common question is whether to choose a starter home or a forever home. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

When deciding between a starter home and a forever home, there are several factors to consider. 

What is a Starter Home?

Beginner homes are homes you know won't suit you forever, but are within your budget at an early stage of your life. There may be fewer bedrooms and bathrooms, a townhome or condo instead of a single-family home, or an older home that needs some TLC. You may also be forced to move to a less desirable neighborhood.

Generally, starter homes meet the needs of the buyer, but they won't last forever. There's a good chance that you'll outgrow this home as your family grows, or that you have other plans for the future that will make it impossible for you to reside here for the rest of your life.

What is a Forever Home?

Living in a forever home is something you can imagine yourself doing for the rest of your life. It may not be a property you live in for the rest of your life, but it's one you can grow into, one that has everything you need for decades to come. Almost always, this means a much higher price, and some of the features you've always wanted in a dream home.

Let Your Home Do the Work

Although most people would love to buy the home they can live in for decades, this is often the path that will require you to work harder than you need to. Saving for a down payment and closing costs on a much larger and more costly home is a massive undertaking while getting into a more affordable home now can open up opportunities to work toward your dream home goals with the passive building of equity rather than actively saving your pennies.

If you are ready to buy a home in Omaha now but are not quite ready to buy that dream home, it often makes more financial sense to begin building equity with that starter home to more efficiently work toward the goal of owning a forever home.

Homeownership of any property will maximize your savings toward a larger property, allowing your home to passively increase in value even when you are not aggressively saving for a bigger house. In many cases, just a few years in that starter home can lead you to be financially ready to upgrade to the dream house.

In nearly every case, becoming a homeowner in Omaha earlier is the best course of action, even if it means compromising on the first home you purchase.

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!

5 Important Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Omaha

by Nancy Heim-berg

Are you ready to buy your first home in Omaha?

The returns on investments in real estate can be daunting at first, but everyone appreciates their investments once they see them. Rather than giving all your money to a landlord, when you buy a home, you're saving for a better future.

Do you want to become a first-time home buyer in Omaha but aren't sure where to start? You can find your perfect home by following these five helpful tips.

1. Large Down Payments Aren't Always Necessary

We've all heard that an aspiring homebuyer needs to save 20% of their dream home's value for a down payment. Down payments are important as they reduce interest payments over the course of time, but huge savings aren't a requirement.

Many lenders will be willing to work with you on adjusting your down payment, depending on your credit score. Even if your credit score isn’t perfect, you can usually still make a lower down payment if needed.

2. Your Monthly Payment Isn't Just Your Mortgage

Once you become a homeowner, you have to do a lot of math to figure out how much your bills will change. There are other costs that you cannot overlook in addition to your mortgage.

In addition to taxes and repairs, insurance can also take a bite out of your paycheck. Make sure you can afford your entire home rather than your mortgage.

3. You Should Shop for Mortgage Loan Officers

You aren't stuck with a mortgage from your bank once you're ready to start shopping for houses. You should shop for mortgage providers before house hunting so you can secure the greatest deal.

Not only should your mortgage be large enough to allow you to purchase your favorite home, but it should also come with a low-interest rate that won't bury you in debt over the years.

4. Your Home Search Should Include Surrounding Areas

If you're a homebody, then the home itself will be a major factor when it comes to your sale. However, you should also pay attention to the surrounding area as well.

Does the neighborhood feel safe? Will you have plenty of nice stores and activities nearby when you feel like getting out of the house?

5. You Can Always Tweak to Create Your Dream Home

You can't be too nitpicky when you're browsing homes. You'll never find a home you adore unless you build one from scratch.

Learn to be lenient and focus on homes that have great potential rather than turning away good homes that need small improvements.

Being a first home buyer comes with all kinds of emotions. After absorbing these tips, you can get ready to face any worries you may have and find a stunning new property to call home in Omaha.

If you're ready to start your first-time home buying journey, contact us today.

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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Photo of Heim-Berg Team Real Estate
Heim-Berg Team
Berkshire Hathaway
331 Village Pointe Plaza
Omaha NE 68118
(402) 677-9024
(402) 679-7108 | (402) 830-6123
Fax: 402-493-4805

Stacey OHara CMG financial 515-306-2360

 

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