Real Estate Information Archive

If you usually celebrate Mother’s Day outside the house with yummy brunches, relaxing spa days or a family trip to the movie theatre, you may find yourself scrambling to make alternate plans this year.  

Even with social distancing guidelines in place and many local businesses not operating as they normally would you can still make this Mother’s Day one to remember. Below we have listed some fun ways to celebrate the special women in your life to let them know just how loved they are! 

If you live with mom:

-Breakfast in bed: the classic “go to” move to ensure mom starts her day with a smile. Set your alarm to wake early and put your chef skills to work by whipping up her favorite morning meal. 

-Plan a family movie: Grab the cozy blankets, throw the popcorn in the microwave and hit play on your mom’s favorite movie. She will love to spend time with her family while watching her most loved flick. 

If mom is a short drive from you:

-Organize a drive-by parade: Gather your siblings, family members and friends to drive by your mom’s house on Mother’s Day. Decorate your cars, make signs and cheer as you show love from a distance. 

-Decorate her front door: Leave little notes taped to your mom’s front door with everything you love about her, favorite memories with her or a special poem. Additionally, you can find a festive wreath to hang so every time she looks at it, she thinks of your love for her. 

-Leave a care package at her door: Gather a few of your mom’s favorite items and leave them at her door. This is sure to bring a smile and make her feel special.

If mom is miles away:

-Organize a virtual party: Send an invite for your whole family to join in! Make it fun by asking everyone to share their favorite memory or quality they love most about your mom. This is a special time to bring everyone together and make mom feel loved, appreciated and adored by everyone near and far. 

-Take an online cooking class together: There are many businesses that are hosting virtual cooking classes for you to take advantage of. Find a cuisine you like and start chopping! When the class is over, do a video call and enjoy a Mother’s Day meal together. 

Happy Mother’s Day! 

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As we all are adjusting to the new social distancing guidelines, it is no secret that weekends are looking a little different. But that hasn’t stopped many local Omaha, NE businesses from changing course and going digital!

Below we have a breakdown of virtual events for you and your family to enjoy this weekend without even having to change out of your PJ’s. So, pop some popcorn, grab a cozy blanket and enjoy! 

What: Art Adventures Picture Mash
When: April 24th | 10:30 – 11:00am
Website: https://www.joslyn.org/education/classes/art-adventures/

*Spend the morning at home creating your own masterpieces while learning all about the art from Joslyn’s collection. The Museum will go live on Facebook for an art-making lesson – all you need to bring are a few simple materials. Visit the website for a list of what you will need, with free kits are available each Thursday (beginning at 9am, while supplies last) for pick-up outside the museum. 

What: Zoo from Home: Animal Activity
When: April 24th | 2:00pm – 2:15pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/OmahaZoo/

*Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 36,000 animals. Get ready for an exclusive interactive video that highlights animal enrichment, behind-the-scenes experiences and other educational activities.

What: From the Forest: Raptor/Critter Moment
When: April 24th & 25th | 3:00pm – 3:10pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/fontenelleforest/

*Don’t miss this short segment that features exclusive moments with raptors and critters from Fontenelle Forest. This is a must-attend for all animal lovers! 

What: Handmade Omaha Cyber Show
When: April 24th – 26th
Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/161296698264954/

*Shop from a coveted collection of local talented artists who handmake art, crafts and artisan goods at this multi-day craft event. There will be photos, videos and more for you to enjoy. 

What: Virtual Music Bingo
When: April 24th – 26th | 6:30pm
Website: https://www.innerrailfoodhall.com/deliverypickup

*With the purchase of food and drinks from Inner Rail Food Hall, patrons will be eligible to play via Zoom and receive bingo cards with instructions with their order. And no bingo game is complete without some good tunes, so DJ Animale will keep the music going!

What: Dinner and a Play (at Home): Recommended Reading for Girls
When: April 24th | 7:30pm
Website: http://www.omahaplayhouse.com/education-and-programming/view/athome/

*This locally made, Omaha-staged production is able to be viewed and enjoyed from the comfort of your own home! And we are hard-pressed to find anything better than dinner and a play, so let local pizzeria PITCH do the cooking for you. They are offering two custom dinner options exclusively for the streaming patrons of Omaha Community Playhouse. You can find full details in the link provided. 

What: We Read: Live Book Reading
When: April 24th – 26th | 12:00pm – 12:15pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/KANEKO.UNOlibrary/

*This book reading is geared for children and will be streamed in real-time, with the option of enjoying at a later date if unable to attend live.

Are you interested in hearing what our amazing clients are saying about us? Be sure to check out the Testimonials page here!

If you are looking to purchase your first home in Omaha, NE then you won’t want to miss today’s blog post! 

The home buying process for first time buyers is very exciting, yet also can seem daunting and overwhelming at times. That is why we have outlined the process in a few simple steps below in hopes that you can familiarize yourself with what to expect. Ready to find your first home? Let’s dive in! 

-The first thing you want to do is get an idea of the type of property you are looking for. This will help you effectively communicate your wants and needs to your realtor and keep you from wasting your time at showings that ultimately will not interest you.

-Next, find a great real estate agent. This step is crucial because not only will you be spending a lot of time with your realtor, but you want to find someone that has extensive knowledge of the area, is hard working and will work in your best interest. Your relationship with your real estate agent will be the foundation of your home buying process, so make sure you find someone you can trust. 

-Find a lender and work with your loan agent to figure out which mortgage is right for you. You will then follow the application process and submit all required material.

-This is where the fun starts – find your dream home! Your agent will begin setting up showings with potential properties that fit your criteria and budget. 

-Once you find a property that you love you will work with your real estate agent to craft an offer on the home. The offer will have specifics such as price, proposed settlement date and contingencies. 

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!

If you are looking for events and activities to dive into this weekend around Omaha, NE then boy are you in the right place! Below we have listed all the can’t-miss adventures that are taking place over the next few days, including festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. So, grab your family and friends and get ready for some serious weekend fun – Omaha style! 

What: Dad Jokes (Improv)
When: March 13th 
Where: The Backline Comedy Theatre | 1618 Harney Street Omaha, NE

What: One Night of Queen 
When: March 13th
Where: 409 S 16th Street Omaha, NE

What: Blackstone Walking Food Tour
When: March 13th
Where: 3804 Farnam Street Omaha, NE

What: Before We’re Gone by Dori Settles
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Lauritzen Gardens | 100 Bancroft Street Omaha, NE

What: Fact and Fiction in Contemporary Photography
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Joslyn Art Museum | 2200 Dodge Street Omaha, NE

What: Diggin’ Dinos
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Omaha Children’s Museum | 500 S 20th Street Omaha, NE

What: Karaoke Friday Nights
When: March 13th
Where: 510 N. 33rd Street Omaha, NE

What: INFLUENCE at KANEKO
When: March 13th & 14th
Where: 1111 Jones Street Omaha, NE

What: Nature Connects: Art with LEGO Bricks
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Lauritzen Gardens | 100 Bancroft Street Omaha, NE

What: Native Gardens
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Omaha Community Playhouse | 6915 Cass Street Omaha, NE

What: Once
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Omaha Community Playhouse | 6915 Cass Street Omaha, NE

What: Spontaneity: 10 Nebraska Abstract Painters
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Gallery 1516 | 1516 Leavenworth Street Omaha, NE

What: Picasso: Master in Clay
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: El Museo Latino | 4701 S 25th Street Omaha, NE

What: Pulitzer Prize Photographs
When: March 13th
Where: Durham Museum | 801 S 10th Street Omaha, NE

What: Sporty Women: The Desire to Compete
When: March 13th & 14th
Where: Durham Museum | 801 S 10th Street Omaha, NE

What: Irish Fest
When: March 14th
Where: Westroads Mall | 1001 N 102nd Street Omaha, NE

What: Bockfest German Celebration
When: March 14th
Where: German American Society, Inc. | 3717 S 120th Street Omaha, NE

What: St. Patty’s at the Park
When: March 14th
Where: Werner Park | 12356 Ballpark Way Papillion, NE

What: Shamrock Shuffle 5K
When: March 14th
Where: 103 W Broadway St. Council Bluffs, IA

What: Omaha St. Paddy’s 7K/Half Marathon
When: March 15th
Where: 345 Riverfront Dr. Events Omaha, NE

What: Omaha Game Night
When: March 14th
Where: 3624 Garnam Street Omaha, NE

What: Take a Selfie with The Cat in the Hat
When: March 14th
Where: Nebraska Furniture Mart | 700 S 72nd Street Omaha, NE

What: Stirnella Soul Brunch
When: March 15th
Where: Stirnella | 3814 Farnam Street Omaha, NE

What: Bagels & Sometimes Bach
When: March 15th
Where: Gallery 1516 | 1516 Leavenworth Street Omaha, NE

What: Joslyn Castle Public Tour
When: March 15th
Where: Joslyn Castle | 3902 Davenport Street Omaha, NE

What: Yoga at the Forest
When: March 13th – 15th
Where: Fontenelle Forest

Are you interested in hearing what our amazing clients are saying about us? Be sure to check out the Testimonials page here!

It is no secret that the home buying process can be a rewarding yet stressful journey. Once you finally settle on a new home and all the contracts have been signed you then have to think about the next phase – moving. It’s six letters and a one syllable word that can cause a lot of commotion and chaos in your life for days and weeks on end! 

Many families are so busy packing children’s playrooms, endless clothing and kitchen pantry items that the thought of prepping their four-legged furry family members for the move may not be at the top of their list. And for that reason, we have dedicated today’s blog post to everything you need to know to have a successful move with your pets. Let’s dive in!

-The first ‘to-do’ when moving with pets is to pack a bag for them with items such as food (enough for a few days), toys, grooming kits, kitty litter, feeding bowls, medications and any other items they will need for the first couple days of unpacking. This will ensure you stay organized and are able to access important items for them immediately. 

-On the day of the move, be sure to keep your pets away from the hustle and bustle and in the quietest area possible. Not only will the commotion cause stress to your pets, but there is a chance they could get injured or escape if left unattended. You can confine them to a closed bedroom or bathroom or keep them in a crate until you are ready to transport them with you. 

-Speaking of transporting, be sure that your pets ride to the new house with you in your vehicle. Not only will it comfort them to be in a familiar car with familiar smells, but it will allow you to keep an eye on them. 

-If you are driving long distances with your pet, be sure to account for rest stops to let them out to stretch their legs and do their business. If your route calls for overnight stays, make sure to call in advance to ensure your hotel is pet friendly.  

-Be sure to update their microchip and/or tags with your new address.

-Once you finally arrive at your new house, take your dog on a tour of the home while they are on a leash. This will allow them to feel safe and secure with you by their side and also allows you to guide them through their new surroundings. 

-Finally, be sure to contact your vet if you are moving out of state or far enough away that you will be establishing yourself at a new practice. This way you will be able to take your pets’ records with you and any medications your furry family members may need. 

Looking for your dream home in Omaha, NE? Be sure to sign up for our new listings alerts here for FREE!

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 in the market to sell your Omaha, NE home, chances are you will have to go through the appraisal process *cue groans*. And while there are certain factors that are out of your control, such as square footage, layout and location, there are a few things you can do to help ensure that your home appraisal comes back at maximum value. 

Before we jump into all the tips and tricks, we first wanted to make sure that our readers understand exactly what a home appraisal is. So, let’s begin at step one: a home appraisal is the process in which a certified appraiser comes to your home to perform an in-depth inspection in order to determine how much your property is really worth. Now please keep in mind the appraisal amount is not always equal to what the listing price will be set at, but it should provide an accurate understanding of the appraised value of the property. 

Now for the fun part – ways to help increase your home appraisal: 

-Our first tip for you is to fix - everything! You know those seemingly small home repairs that have been on your “to-do” list for ages, but you just haven’t gotten around to yet? The running toilet, the squeaky patio door, the dent on the wall from your kid’s skateboard accident – sound familiar? While these things may not seem like a big deal to you, they can be a red flag to the appraiser and potentially reduce the perceived overall condition of your abode. 

-Cosmetic upgrades can go a long way in helping your home look fresher and newer. We aren’t saying splurge on a full-on remodel (because really, who wants to take on that job?!), but investing in areas such as new carpets, a new coat of paint, an updated bathroom vanity, etc. can actually go a long way!

-Staying on the last point, it doesn’t hurt to keep track of all the improvements/upgrades you did in a list to show the appraiser as they may not be familiar with homes in your area. This is a great opportunity to stand out and display any added value that your home provides. Additionally, if you can include any paperwork, like contractor invoices, that will help your case tremendously and provide weight to the claims you make.

-Arguably one of the most important areas of your property to keep in mind is the front of your home. Curb appeal is everything and as they say, you don’t have a second chance at a first impression. The appraiser’s initial judgement and assessment of your home will be as they walk up and it is a great opportunity to impress. Paint the front door, trim the weeds, plant colorful flowers, add a wreath and doormat – anything that you think will add some spice to the front of your home. 

-Lastly, be sure to clean! We understand this may seem obvious, but a spotless house will most likely increase the chances of the appraiser viewing your home in good condition. So, whether you take a weekend to hit every nook and cranny or hire an in-home service, just make sure that things are squeaky clean for appraisal day! 

Have you been wondering what your Omaha, NE home is worth? If so, be sure to check out our instant market valuation page here!

With colder temperatures on the horizon you may find yourself swapping your t-shirts and sandals for winter shoes, colorful scarves and heavy jackets. It is important to remember that as you transition for the shorter and chillier days ahead that you also make adjustments for your pets to ensure their happiness and safety this season. Below we have listed a few winter care tips for your furry four legged family members! 

-As outside temperatures drop, chances are you will crank the heat to warm up your home – we don’t blame you! But did you know that the heat could dry out your pet’s skin and in turn cause irritation? To avoid this, keep a humidifier in your home to help keep everyone’s skin hydrated. 

-Be sure to bring outdoor dogs and cats inside overnight. Nighttime temperatures can drop drastically at times and you want to make sure your pets are safe from these frigid conditions. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too cold for you, its too cold for them. 

-When your pet’s do go outdoors be sure to watch for signs of frostbite, even if your cat or dog has only been outside for a short amount of time. The most susceptible areas of their bodies are tails, legs and paws and it doesn’t take much for frostbit to kick in. 

-To expand on the above tip, you may want to invest in a sweater or coat (especially for short-hair pets) to help them stay warm outdoors.

-Be sure to never leave pets in a car alone during the cold weather, no matter how short a time you will be gone for. 

-In order to prevent burns and injuries, you always want to make sure to always keep cats and dogs away from any heat sources in your home.

-We all know how excited dogs can get to frolic and play in fresh snow, however there are more dogs that get lost during the winter months than at any other time of the year. Always be sure to keep dogs on leashes and make sure to keep ID tags on their collars in the event they get out of your sight. 

Looking for more real estate information for Omaha, NE? Check out our 'Resources' page here!