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Benefits of purchasing a home with an HOA

by Nancy Heim-berg

When looking for a home in Omaha, some buyers may be turned off by the idea of purchasing a home that has an HOA (Homeowners Association). And while some people find them divisive, HOAs have the potential to offer quite a few benefits for homeowners that live within their neighborhoods. In this post we will discuss a few reasons why you should be open to an HOA when starting your search, and how the benefits have the potential to far outweigh any negatives.

One benefit of an HOA is that many require a standardized appearance of all homes. This means that all homes must conform to a predetermined cosmetic standard set by the HOA, ensuring that the neighborhood looks cohesive and appealing. It makes sure that your careless or lazy neighbor is forced to mow their lawn and maintain the outside appearance of their home (no neon pink exterior paint allowed!). Also, HOAs help to maintain your property value, as a well-maintained appearance of homes makes the value of the neighborhood higher and more valuable than the surrounding areas. This allows owners who eventually look to sell their home to recoup their initial investment and potentially make a sizeable profit - who wouldn't want that?!

Another benefit of an HOA is that many often feature and provide additional amenities such as sports areas, community swimming pools, walking trails and a community center for residents and their guests to enjoy. These locations are perfect for community building opportunities and offer residents areas of entertainment. Lastly, HOA fees will help to cover community maintenance as well, including common areas, streets, landscaping and tree care. This brings a peace of mind to homeowners that the surrounding areas of their home will always be well kept without any effort on their part. 

So you want to buy a fixer-upper?

by Nancy Heim-berg

So you are thinking of buying a fixer-upper but aren't sure what to expect. For some people the idea of buying a home that needs a lot of work can be a little daunting. And for others, the thought of purchasing a home that needs a little love in an incredible neighborhood, and are able to remodel it to their taste, is ideal. While it is true that a fixer-upper has the potential to be your worst nightmare, there are also incredible benefits that you simply can't ignore. Below we have listed some pros and cons that come with purchasing a fixer-upper home that we hope will be helpful and inspiring when making your decision: 

Pros:
-Remodeling the bathroom and/or kitchen have the potential to drastically increase the value of your home
-Buyers can design and pick out the finishes to match their taste
-Do you love a neighborhood but can't afford the area? A fixer-upper allows you to purchase a home in your ideal neighborhood that otherwise may have been out of your budget and reach
-Makes owning a home attainable for eager buyers
-Since property taxes are based on the home’s sale price, homeowners will reap major tax savings on a fixer-upper

Cons:
-There is a ton of extra work that goes into a fixer-upper than a home that is move-in ready
-You are almost guaranteed to go over budget
-Renovations are usually met with a lot of stress and can be very time consuming
-Costly surprises are sure to pop up that can expand the timeline and budget of the project

Tips for Moving with your Furry Family Members!

by Nancy Heim-berg

Moving day is an exciting time for the entire family....but it is also stressful.  The same stress felt by the 'humans' in the house, are also felt by your pets.  In fact, pets can sense that something big is up, weeks prior to your move!  They pick up on your anxiety and the chaos of their living space.  

In order to make your move a smooth one for your furry friends, follow these terrific tips:

Before Moving Day

1. Visit your Vet for one last checkup, any vaccinations due and to gather all your pets health records.

2. If possible, visit your new home so your pets can get acclimated to their new environment.

3. Create new Name Tags that show your brand new address.

Moving Day

1. Pack an overnight bag specifically for your pet.  Include food, water, favorite toy, and medications, treats, doggie bags for clean-up and sleeping bed.

2. Pack a current photo of your pet in the bag in case they were to get loose of you during the move.

3. Pack your vet records in the bag as well.

4. Keep your pet in your vehicle when making the move.  This helps ease their already high anxiety.

5. Once you arrive at your new home, allow your pet some time to 'sniff' around before bringing in furniture and belongings.

For more Home Selling and Buying Tips, visit our website.  Need recommendations on Pet Services in your new area?  Give the Heim-Berg Team a call!

The Truth about Home Buying Myths Exposed!

by Nancy Heim-berg

If you're considering a Omaha NE home purchase this year, make sure you get the facts!  Home Buying myths have been around for ages so it's important to find the facts that will impact your decision.

A few things to consider in today's marketplace:

  • 88% of all Property Managers raised rental rates in the last year!
  • Interest Rates are still below historic lows.
  • Credit Score requirements for obtaining a mortgage continue to fall.


To obtain more personalized information for your unique situation, contact the Heim-Berg Team.  You can also view more Home Buying Tips on our website.

Displaying blog entries 61-64 of 64

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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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