Real Estate Information Archive

Buying a home in today’s crazy real estate market is no small feat. If you recently closed on a house, first off congratulations! But don’t get too complacent just yet. There are a handful of things you should do immediately upon moving in. We have broken those actions down below - let’s dive in: 

1. One of the first things you want to do after moving into your new home is to change the locks. There is no way for you to know how many people currently hold a key to your new abode so it’s best to be safe and change all the locks on the doors. Also, it’s always a good idea to make and hide a spare key somewhere outside in the event you lock yourself out.

2. Another task is to check the batteries in the smoke detectors to ensure they are working. As a lot of smoke detectors only last for about ten years or so, it’s also a good idea to check how old they are and if there is a warranty. Additionally, check if the smoke detector had a carbon monoxide detector built in. If not, that should be your next purchase! 

3. Connecting the utilities is another important step to take (ideally) before moving into your new Omaha, NE home. Utilities such as water, electricity, and gas are essential to have working as you get settled in. You can check with your local providers to get an idea of what the process looks like, how far in advance you need to schedule the turn-on, and the type of residence verification you will need to provide. 

4. Once you are a bit more settled in, you will want to go over the inspection report to review what repairs were noted and need to be completed. While major repairs were most likely negotiated during the contract phase, other minor ones will likely be your responsibility. List them in order of importance and make time to tackle each one. 

5. Your new home will require regular maintenance and cleaning so creating a schedule of what needs to be completed each month will help keep you organized and on track. These tasks include cleaning the gutters, completing pest inspections, emptying the hot water heater, winterizing your home, cleaning air filters, and more. Regularly maintaining your home is the key to maintaining its value for the future. 

6. Lastly, get to know your neighbors! There is nothing better than having a great relationship with the people living around you and now is the perfect time to introduce yourself, your family, and any furry four-legged family members you have. 

Happy memory-making in your new home!! Enjoy.

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! 

When it comes to buying a home, there are certain precautions you can take that will help protect you financially. One of them is getting an appraisal contingency, which essentially means that if the home does not appraise for what you agreed to pay you are allowed to take your deposit and walk away from the deal. How does an appraisal contingency work? We’re glad you asked..

Once you find a home you would like to purchase, your lender will request a home appraisal to ensure the property isn’t selling for more than it’s really worth. During the appraisal a licensed professional will asses the home, as well as the surrounding area, and give their opinion on how much the property is worth. If the amount that comes back is lower than what you offered you can request for the seller to come down on the sale price, make up the difference in the offer price and appraisal amount, or back out of the sale entirely. 

While it’s not a requirement to have an appraisal contingency, things can become extremely difficult for you as a buyer if the appraisal comes back low and you waived the clause. Having an appraisal contingency not only gives you and your lender protection from overpaying, it also gives you negotiating power and allows you to walk away if you and the seller can’t come to terms. 

Whether you have experience in the real estate world or are dipping your toes in for the first time, hiring the right real estate agent is key when it comes to buying and/or selling a home. How can you be sure you have the right person working with you? We are glad you asked!

You will not always hire the first agent you speak with, which is why asking the right questions when interviewing real estate agents is crucial. Below we have listed four questions for you to ask that will give you better insight into their experience as an agent and what you can expect if you choose to work with them. Let’s dive in:

How long have you been a licensed real estate agent? 
When choosing an agent, you want a professional who is knowledgeable when it comes to all things real estate. That level of understanding is only gained through experience which is why ideally you want someone who has at least a few years under their belt. 

How many homes have you helped clients buy/sell in the last year?
It should be noted that there is a big difference between ‘working’ with clients to buy and sell homes versus actually getting the job done. You want to have confidence that the agent you hire will be able to successfully help you achieve your goals with buying and/or selling a property. 

Do you have specific neighborhoods that you specialize in? 
While it’s great for an agent to have a general understanding of different neighborhoods, you want the person you work with to have vast knowledge of the specific areas you are looking to buy and/or sell in. If you are looking to buy, they should be able to provide information regarding current home prices for the area as well as schools, safety information, nearby entertainment and more. If you are looking to sell, they should be able to provide information about other comps in the area and what they are selling for. 

Can you provide testimonials from previous clients that you have worked with?
Many agents will be able to provide testimonials from clients they have worked with in the past. Reviewing these will allow you to see what other people are saying about their experience working with the agent and give you a better understanding of what you can expect if you choose to hire them.

If you are looking to sell your Omaha, NE house, be sure to contact our team for more information. Our dedicated, knowledgeable agents are here to provide you with the expert services you need.

If you have ever purchased a home you understand just how costly and emotional the process can be. There are so many checklists to complete and checks to write. One of the optional costs is to have a home inspection completed, which leaves some buyers unsure if the $200 to $500 invoice is worth it. 

Ultimately the decision on whether or not to schedule a home inspection is up to you. However, if you are on the fence we have outlined four reasons why it would be a benefit to you during the home buying process below. Let’s dive in:

Safety. 
First and foremost, a home inspection can bring to light any issues around the home that could negatively affect your family’s safety and health. Things such as mold, carbon monoxide, radon, outdated electrical wiring, foundation issues, traces of lead in pipes and deteriorating plumbing materials are all issues that, if not for a home inspection, may have been overlooked. 

Negotiate. 
Based on the inspection report that comes back, the buyer has the opportunity to request repairs to be completed and/or a reduction in price. Your realtor should be able to work with you to fully understand what asks should be made to achieve the best deal possible. A home inspection can be a great negotiation tool. 

Avoid inheriting costly repairs. 
By opting out of a home inspection, buyers are accepting the risk that major issues may go undetected and costly repairs may need to be completed down the road. Larger issues such as roofing, foundation, HVAC system and plumbing can potentially cost thousands of dollars to fix and pose a large financial setback. 

Peace of mind.
At the end of the day a home inspection will allow you to paint a clearer picture of the homes condition and exactly what you are stepping into once those keys are in hand. Not fully understanding all the details of the house can cause unnecessary anxiety, stress and uncertainty. A home inspection allows buyers to safeguard their budget and adds an extra layer of protection to what is probably the largest purchase they will may in their lifetime. 

If you are looking to sell your Omaha, NE house, be sure to contact our team for more information. Our dedicated, knowledgeable agents are here to provide you with the expert services you need.

Even for the seasoned buyer the home buying process can prove to not only be stressful, but filled with questions and many moments of uncertainty. The best thing you can do as a buyer is to arm yourself with information prior to beginning your search so you can walk in as prepared as possible. 

Below we dive into 5 frequently asked questions that many home buyers have and provide information on each topic. Let’s jump in:

What is the first step in the home buying process?

Mortgage pre-approval. 

The first step in the home buying process is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Getting pre-approved for a loan will allow the buyer to understand exactly how much home they can afford and search for houses within their set budget. Buyers will need to provide proof of income, proof of assets, employment verification, good credit and other documentation when applying. 

What can I expect my real estate agent to do during the home buying process? 

A lot. 

When it comes time to buy a home, your real estate agent will become your new best friend and biggest advocate. They are the most valuable asset you have as their knowledge and expertise will help you navigate each aspect of the home buying process. Throughout the entire transaction your realtor will not only represent you, but they will be there to educate you on all of your options and answer any questions you have (because there will probably be lots of them!). 

How long does the closing normally take?

It depends. 

Typically you can expect the closing process to take around 30-45 days if you have a conventional mortgage, but every situation is different and timelines can vary. While there are some delays that unfortunately are unavoidable (and frustrating) there are a few things you can do to help ensure things run smoothly including depositing the down payment on time, making sure the loan application is complete and fulfilling all unpaid debts. 

Is it necessary to get a home inspection?

Yes.

Any time you are purchasing a home you should always get an inspection, even if it’s a new construction. Inspections are relatively inexpensive and will provide you with useful knowledge such as structural issues, safety problems, any unwanted pests and/or insects, and overall peace of mind and protection on your largest investment. 

How much should I be saving for a down payment?

Aim for 20% of purchase price.

The magic number many experts say to aim for when it comes to a down payment is at least 20% of the purchase price as it lowers the buyers lending risk. This will allow you to avoid paying for private mortgage insurance (PMI) and added interest to your mortgage payment. As an example, if your dream home is $350,000 you should plan to save around $70,000 for a down payment.

What type of community and home are you searching for? Put our years of local experience and real estate knowledge to work for you. Give us a call or start your customized home search today right here.

We love the Omaha area for so many reasons. With its gorgeous location along the Mississippi River, and home to many fortune 500 companies, four bustling entertainment districts, over 200 parks, and world-class shopping and dining. But it’s the people and the neighborhoods that make the Omaha area a fantastic place to call home. With that said, we have the latest update to the Top Omaha Neighborhoods and Suburbs to call home for 2022…drum roll, please!

Top Omaha Neighborhoods:

Benson- Do you have an artsy, creative flair? Then you’ll fit right in with the Benson neighborhood. Affordable homes with lots to do in the area. Great local coffee shops, a foodie haven, and wonderful shops and schools. Search all Homes for Sale in Benson.

Old Market- Omaha’s most historic neighborhood, with beautiful cobblestone streets & entertaining nightlife. A relatively small neighborhood hosting Omaha’s famous Farmer’s Market, great shops and dining, art galleries, bars, and lots of socializing. A more expensive area, but home values are on the rise and this neighborhood has an 87% walkability rating! Search all Homes for Sale in Old Market.

Dundee- This charming neighborhood knows what community means and keeps up with its homes and neighbors. Often referred to as the golden child of the city, it is the safest neighborhood and the very home of Warren Buffet for over 60 years.  Great affordability for homes and walkable to most of your favorite places. Ahh, yes, please. Search all Homes for Sale in Dundee.

Leavenworth- A neighborhood full of lovely parks, moderately priced homes, great schools, and nightlife too!  Add to that the shops at Midland Crossing and you have the perfect neighborhood for any family. Again, if you’re looking for a great neighborhood with walkability to your favorite places, Leavenworth may be the place for you.  Search all Homes for Sale in Leavenworth.

Aksarben/Elmwood Park- Just south of Dundee, Aksarben Village is the hub of community activity and home to many upscale apartments and condos with lots of retail space, parks, and offices nearby. It is also nearby Baxter Arena, home to the many University of Nebraska at Omaha Sports Teams. Home prices here are in the $200,000.  Search all Homes for Sale in Aksarben/Elmwood Park.

Top Suburbs of Omaha to Live:

Papillion- Just south of Omaha is this tight-knit, charming community of Papillion. Boasting incredible shopping, namesake brewing, 650 acres of park space & bike trails, golf courses, recreation areas and excellent schools. This is a top-notch suburb for you and your family to call home. Search all Homes for Sale in Papillion.

Gretna- A small, beautiful community known for its parks and attractions, Gretna is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. You’ll also love the great dining and shopping options and wonderful schools for your family to enjoy. Search all Homes for Sale in Gretna.

Chalco- This mid-sized city, along the Missouri River, is new to the list but offers a suburban charm with lots of outdoor amenities. Fishing, boating, nature trails, and home to the Chalco Hill Recreation Area. Highly rated schools that are fantastic for families and have very affordable housing options. Search all Homes for Sale in Chalco.

La Vista- Officially the youngest town in Nebraska, La Vista offers the advantages of a small town, with all the opportunities of a large city. Featuring well-kept homes on beautiful tree-lined streets, and home to many corporations boasts a wide range of home options. Amenities include 17 parks, a sports complex, swimming pool, community center, senior rec center, library, and excellent schools. Search all Homes for Sale in La Vista.

Bennington- The town of Bennington may be small, but once you’ve visited here beneath the miles of blue skies and shade of heritage trees among the quiet and beautiful surroundings, you’ll know why it’s one of our best-kept secrets! Today Bennington combines the serenity of a farming community with the culture of a more metropolitan area. You’ll enjoy great schools, access to everyday necessities, and a short drive to anything that Omaha has to offer. Search all Homes for Sale in Bennington.

What type of community and home are you searching for? Put our years of local experience and real estate knowledge to work for you. Give us a call or start your customized home search today right here.

There is something to be said about the charm and character that comes along with buying an older home. And while you should always check on various areas of the house you are purchasing, plumbing is one that should not be overlooked - especially if you are eyeing an older property. 

Below we have listed some areas in the plumbing department that should be checked on prior to finalizing the sale of a new home. Doing so could save you time, money and major headaches down the road. Let’s dive in:

-Checking the age of the water heater is very important. If you find that it’s more than ten years old, it more than likely is time to replace it. Also, identifying the location of the water heater is a good indicator of potential damage that could arise if it were to leak and allows you to plan accordingly. 

-Go through each toilet in the house and check for leaks and/or damage at the base, as well as discoloration, rocking or warping. You will also want to go through and flush the toilets to ensure there are no clogs. 

-Depending on the occupancy of the house over the last few years, you may find rust or corrosion when turning on the tap water. It is better to know the condition prior to moving in and plan for those costs if repairs need to be made. 

-Bringing in an expert to check the sewer line in the street via video camera is a great way to detect potential issues such as corrosion, clogs, etc. - all of which can damage the line and cause major issues down the line.

-Water supply pipes are another major area to investigate. Finding out when they were installed and if they were ever replaced, as well as what type of material they are can make a huge difference in potential repairs and/or needing to replaced prior to move in.

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! 

Homeowners associations (HOA’s) can be an attractive aspect of a community or a complete dealbreaker for homebuyers. If you find yourself searching for homes with an HOA but aren’t quite sure how you feel, today’s blog post may be able to deliver some clarity. 

Before we get into pros and cons of HOA’s, let's first discuss what they are. A homeowner’s association is an organization within a neighborhood, subdivision or condominium that is in charge of creating and enforcing rules and regulations for the properties within the community. 

Pros of an HOA

-Amenities. HOA’s typically will offer and manage amenities such as pools, parks, tennis courts and community centers, all of which are assessable to community members. 

-Maintenance. HOA’s will typically handle all community maintenance including snow removal, trash pickup, landscaping and the upkeep of private roads. 

-Appearance. HOA’s oversee and ensure the community is neat at all times. This is especially nice if you are in the process of selling your home as a clean neighborhood is appealing to potential buyers. 

-Mediator. HOA’s are able to step in if a conflict were to arise with a neighbor or fellow community member. Turning issues over to the HOA is a great way to ensure the issue is resolved fairly, making it easier for both parties involved. 

Cons of an HOA 

-Cost. The cost of an HOA can vary based on property and the amenities that are provided, but an added cost nonetheless. 

-Fines. It is important to fully understand what is expected from you as a homeowner in a community with an HOA to avoid being penalized with unexpected fines and fees. 

-Rules. Some people are turned off from HOA’s because they are told what they can and can’t do with a property they own. Things such as exterior paint color, dimensions of fencing, how tall your grass can be, the number of pets you can have and type of window coverings that are visible from the street are all things HOA’s can dictate. 

Choosing the best home and neighborhood for your needs is of utmost importance to our team.  Please contact us with any questions you may have and check back to view our blog weekly for great home buying and selling tips!

Charm and character are two aspects of older homes that greatly appeal to many buyers. While some people enjoy the unique design elements that older homes afford, they also have their fair share of upkeep and potentially costly repairs and renovations. 
 
Below we discuss a few things to keep in mind if an older home is on your wish list. Let’s dive in: 
 
1. Consider bringing in a second inspector when purchasing an older property to ensure nothing was missed and you know exactly what you are getting into. It will be worth the extra money to have confidence that no costly repairs pop up in the future that should have been handled prior to the sale.
 
2. Older properties stand a higher chance of having lead paint on the walls thought the house, which can pose major health risks (especially in children). Chipped, flaking or chipped paint should be tested by the inspector.
 
3. Mold is something that can wreak havoc on your life if you do not treat it correctly. It’s a common thing to find in homes that have been sitting empty for some time and/or have poor circulation. Remedying the situation could be quite expensive so be sure to test for mold in places such as attics, living quarters and basements. 
 
4. Lastly, be sure to inquire about how long the home has been sitting vacant. The longer the house has been without air or water circulation the more likely you are to come across costly problems such as mold, moisture buildup and rodent infestations. 
 

From new, modern homes to old fixer-uppers, whatever your taste let our experienced team help you find your dream home in Omaha, NE. Be sure to sign up for our listing alerts 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!