Real Estate Information

The holidays bring so much joy and fun to our homes and families, but when they are finished, the clean-up begins. And let’s be honest, this clean up isn’t the ordinary ‘after a weekday meal’ clean up. It’s time to do some heavy-duty cleaning to get your home ready and running efficiently to take on the new year. Let’s look at the 5 most important areas to focus on for the ‘deep clean’ after the holidays.

1. Dishwasher- If your home is anything like ours your dishwasher has probably been running non-stop. Especially if you’ve hosted overnight guests as well. Think of all the food residue from your holiday dishes that your dishwasher has scrubbed through?! Remember, all that gunk can build up on the inside walls, racks, and bottom of the dishwasher itself as well. However, there’s good news! It’s easy to clean and get rid of that and have your dishwasher looking and running like it's brand new again. You’ll want to start by handwashing all removable filters.  Then put together 1 scoop of dishwasher-approved cleaning solution into the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run on your dishwasher’s hottest setting. Voilà - that’s it!  When finished it’ll be good as new and ready to tackle anything you toss in it.
2. Refrigerator- First and foremost, start by tossing out all the old & expired foods and any bottles or containers that are empty or nearly there. Then set aside all remaining items in your refrigerator so that you can clean inside.  Start with a cleaning solution and hot water.  Wipe down all shelves and bins. Remove any pieces possible to scrub thoroughly. Once everything has been scrubbed inside, organize and replace foods and condiments back in. Place a baking soda deodorizer inside to eliminate any future odors. Not done yet. If you haven’t already done so, pull out the refrigerator and vacuum off the vents in the back. They tend to get very dusty and gunky which makes it more difficult for your refrigerator to run efficiently.
3. Oven- Not my favorite, but has to be done, especially if you’ve had spills cooking or baking those delicious treats for the season. Whether you choose to use an oven cleaner or opt for a natural solution, make sure you have a pair of rubber gloves handy. Remove racks before starting. If you’re interested in a natural solution, here’s some to try:  Oven Cleaner- ½ C Baking Soda, 3 Tablespoons water. Mix in a small bowl then use scrub brush and sponge. For Degreasing your Oven try 1 C White Vinegar, baking soda, and water. First put water in the spray bottle and spray your oven. Sprinkle baking soda onto the wet areas and let stand for about an hour. Empty the water from the spray bottle and put in the vinegar. Spritz the vinegar onto the baking soda and it will begin to bubble. Use a sponge to wipe away all residue.
4. Stove Hood- This is one area that captures a lot of greases, so it needs a great cleaning after the holidays. Use your cleaning solution and hot water to submerge the filter for 20 minutes. Then scrub clean and replace back into the hood.
5. Bathrooms- Whether you’ve just entertained for an evening or two or had overnight guests for days at a time, your bathrooms are in desperate need of a deep clean and sanitizing. Again, mix your favorite cleaning solution with hot water, grab some clean towels and wipe down counters, drawers, handles, toilet surfaces, and tub & shower. Once finished, spray on a sanitizing solution and let dry. Next using a sanitizing cleaner, scrub toilets until they sparkle.

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!

Celebrating the New Year is a long-held tradition in the U.S. and is ushered in in many ways across our country. Fireworks, parties, home gatherings with family and friends, galas, and more. But in other countries around the world, some traditions are a little more intriguing. Let’s take a closer look.

Brazil- Throwing white flowers into the ocean

In an effort to illicit blessings from Yemoja, the major water deity who is believed to control the seas, Brazilians flock to the shores on New Year’s Eve to throw white flowers and place candles in the water.

Chile- Sitting in Cemeteries

It is commonplace in Chile to attend New Year’s Eve mass in cemeteries and not at church. This is so people can relax and spend time with their loved ones and include them in New Year’s Eve festivities.

Denmark- Smashing Dishes

Would you like more luck in the upcoming year? Well, if you’re in Denmark then you’re going to be smashing dishes. It is a Danish tradition to throw China at your neighbor's and friends' front doors on New Year’s Eve. It is believed that you are leaving any ill will or aggression behind you before entering the new year.  The bigger the pile outside your own front door, the more luck you’ll have in the new year.

Ecuador- Burning Scarecrows

Here is a HOT tradition…quite literally! In Ecuador, they have bonfires with an effigy at the center- representing politicians, pop icons, and other figures from the year that is ending. These ‘burnings’ are meant to cleanse the world from all the bad from the past 12 months and make room for all the good that is set to come.

Germany- Pour some Lead

As tradition would have it in Germany, each person melts a small piece of lead or tin over an open-flame candle and pours it into a container of cold water. It is said that the shape it forms reveals the person’s fate for the upcoming year. This unique activity is known as Bleigießen.

Greece- Smashing a Pomegranate

A pomegranate in Greece is a symbol of fertility, life, and abundance, so modern-day Greeks associate it with good fortune. Therefore, every New Year’s Eve it is tradition for Greeks to smash a pomegranate against their front door. The number of pomegranate seeds that end up scattered is directly related to the amount of good luck to follow in the new year.

Ireland- Sleeping on Mistletoe

That might get a little picky, but in Ireland, sleeping with Mistletoe under their pillows for the single gals is supposed to help them find their future husbands.

Italy- Wearing Red Underwear

In Italian culture, red is associated with fertility. On New Year’s Eve, many Italians will wear red underwear hoping it will help them conceive in the new year.

Scotland- First Footing

New Year’s Eve is extremely important in Scotland, in fact, it is called Hogmanay. While many Scottish traditions are observed on this day, one stands out among the rest. It’s called First Footing. What is it? Simply put it is the first person who crosses the threshold of your house after midnight. But there is a catch. That person should be a dark-haired male if you want good luck in the upcoming year! Better yet if this dark-haired male comes bearing gifts of coal, salt, shortbread & whiskey! These ensure better fortune.

Spain- Eating Grapes

In Spain, locals will eat 12 grapes, 1 each after the first 12 bell strikes after midnight. This is to bring about good fortune and prosperity in the new year. This tradition started back in the 1800s with the Alicante area vine growers as a means of selling more grapes.

The Netherlands- Eating lots of Oliebollen

This one is a wee bit strange, to say the least, but this Dutch tradition goes back to the Germanic Goddess of Perchta, also known as the Belly Slitter. It was believed that if they filled their bellies with these pieces of deep-fried dough, the fat from the donuts would cause her sword to slide off of them and she wouldn’t be able to slit their bellies.  Why would she do this in the first place? It was a so-called punishment for people who hadn’t sufficiently partaken in the Yuletide cheer.  Today, Dutch vendors all over sell this yummy deep-fried donut-like ball for all to enjoy.

Turkey- Sprinkling Salt

It’s not just a seasoning, in Turkey and other countries around the world, it is believed that if you sprinkle salt on your doorstep as the clock strikes midnight, you’ll promote peace and prosperity throughout the new year.

However you choose to usher in the New Year, we wish you a safe and happy time celebrating!

Remember, this is a brand-new beginning, a chance to create your own story from page 1. Create the best one you can!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  WELCOME, 2023!!

Now that the winter season is upon us, it is important to ensure one of your most valuable assets is protected during this frigid period. Ice dams are a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof from the water of melting snow that is draining off your roof. The water that can back up behind the dam can then leak into your home and cause damage to ceilings, insulation, and walls. If that were to happen it can also cause a buildup of mold & mildew and lead to respiratory issues.

If surface temperatures of the roof are not uniform in nature, this will cause melting to occur in spots and water to run down the roof and freeze again in the areas that are below 32 degrees. What causes uneven roof temperatures? Heat loss from your home, combined with snow covering the roof, combines to increase the likelihood of ice dams forming.

What can you do to prevent ice dams?

1. Make sure the ceilings in your rooms are air-tight and no warm air can flow into the attic. The attic space needs to remain at an even cool temperature.
2. If you find any areas of leakage, seal them immediately.
3. You may also want to consider additional ceiling and roof insulation. Consulting with a professional on the grade and amount would be advised.
4. Always remove excess snow from your roof. Roof rakes & push brooms can be used for this purpose, however, depending on the roof, could damage roofing materials. Consulting with your roofing professional would be a quick phone call and could potentially save money in the future.

Roofs built to code should not have a problem handling the snow load, but removing the snow helps with the temperature control of your roof and the possible formation of dams. Warning signs- watch for the formation of the ice edge and icicles.  While icicles look beautiful in the glistening sun, they can also be a sign that heat is escaping your home.

Doing an inspection now could save you many headaches and expenses later. Additionally, sealing any escaping heat will also help you save on your heating costs for the season.

As always, we recommend you speak with a contractor or roofing professional for advice when dealing with an ice dam or roofing issue.

If you are looking for a reference for a great local professional, please reach out to our team. We work with trusted local professionals and have a vast network at our fingertips.

Soon it will be time for your overnight guests to arrive. The decorations have been hung, the deep cleaning is done and you’re ready to celebrate with beloved family and friends. Now it’s time to check off the items to ensure your guests feel comfortable when they stay in your home.  After all, making your guests feel comfortable and at ease is the true essence of etiquette.

Let’s take it from the Guest Room to Bathroom and Kitchen.

Guest Room

• Have the WIFI password written down and provide a phone charger on the nightstand along with fresh holiday flowers and bottled water, of course.
• Prepare the bed with fresh, soft linens. Included an extra blanket and pillows too.
• Clear out the closet space so your guests have a place to put their belongings.

Bathroom

• Add extra towels and washcloths that are easily accessible. Or add a personal grouping to the guest bedroom.
• Provide a basket of extra toothbrushes, skin care products, and basic medications. Don’t forget easy access to the essentials of toilet paper, shower & hair care products, blow dryer, and shaving needs.
• Add a calming candle and soft subtle holiday décor to set the mood.

Kitchen

• Check with your guests ahead of time to learn of any food allergies you’ll need to be made aware of in preparing your holiday food
• Schedule your grocery shopping or pick them up the day before their arrival.
• Skip the paper products and utilize your fancy dishes! What better time than when surrounded by the ones you love?
• Prepare or purchase snacks and drinks that are easy for everyone to grab when they are hungry. You want your guests to feel welcome to eat/drink at any time.
• Prep as much as possible for your holiday menus before your guests arrive so you can enjoy your time with them, and not be stuck in the kitchen.

Overall, you want your home festive, comfortable, and welcoming. Add a few cozy blankets, easy access to games, and lots of non-cluttered spaces for everyone to gather and enjoy their time together.

WISHING YOU A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!!

It’s the most wonderful time of year and the magic of the season is on full display at so many venues and homes around the Omaha area. Along with great lighting displays are festive decorations and family-friendly events. So, join in the fun and get the holiday season started in grand style!

 Gene Leahy Mall at the Riverfront- Holly Days

View the beautiful traditional white lights and oversized ornaments and join in the Holly Days celebration. From 2:00 to 7:00 you’ll be treated to holiday treats & warm beverages, photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the reindeer, holiday stories by the firepits, free train rides, holiday cookie decorating and coloring book kits, a holiday light walk and culminating in a Festive Light Show at the Performance Pavilion.

Old Market Lighting Display

Talk about bright, festive, and holiday spirit! The beauty and joy of the season is alive and well at Old Market. The display runs from 10^th to 13^th streets and Farnam to Jackson streets. Truly breathtaking as it illuminates the brick streets of Old Market and the surrounding area. Perfect for an evening stroll.

North Omaha Lighting Display

Showcased along a 6-block area around 24^th and Lake Street, the season comes alive with beautiful lights and holiday décor.

South Omaha Lighting Display

Trees dressed in white lights crisscrossing the sidewalks and gorgeous decorations throughout the area are what you’ll find showcased along 24^th Street between L and Q Streets.

This is just the beginning of a month of holiday festivities and fun! Be sure to check out our blog and Facebook page frequently for more area updates.

Do you have an event or suggestion you’d like us to explore and post about? You can send your suggestions to [email protected].

“For the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped,

For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped,

For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb,

For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home-

Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the trade and the skill and the wealth in our land,

For the cunning and strength of the workingman’s hand,

For the good that our artists and poets have taught,

For the friendship that hope and affection have brought-

Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the homes that with purest affection are blest,

For the season of plenty and well-deserved rest,

For our country extending from sea unto sea;

The land that is known as the “Land of the Free”-

Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

Wishing you a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. May we all count the many blessings in our lives and live our lives with gratitude each and every day.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

The big day of Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Oh, we can already smell the turkey roasting in the oven, the freshly baked pies, and all those yummy sides. As adults, we tend to focus on the wonderful meal we’ll serve and the table upon which we’ll serve, but we also need to think about what we can do to keep the kids entertained throughout the day.

Here are 5 ideas that are fun and easy and will keep them engaged and entertained with the rest of the family.

Thanksgiving Bingo

So much fun and easy to create (or download a set). You’ll need 9 x 12 pieces of construction paper and ink stamps- Thanksgiving-themed. Simply create a bingo board with the stamps. Then create a set of cards with the stamps to be used to call out the spaces (just like the bingo numbers). Use pumpkin candy as the bingo pieces and an older child or adult call out the stamp cards. To make it more fun, purchase a few small gifts ahead of time to give as prizes.

Placeholders for your guests- Turkey Treats

A little crafty project to have the kids feel included in the table setting is making placeholders for your guests. Make some Turkey Treats. You’ll need the following:

• 9” round tulle circles (the dollar store is great)
• M & M’s or Reece’s Pieces in Fall colors
• Pipe Cleaners (yellow, orange, brown, or red)
• Google eyes
• Quick grip glue
• Small, clear hair elastics

Get the full tutorial here.

Kids Tablecloth

Instead of purchasing a tablecloth this year, roll out a large piece of craft paper to cover your table. Create white spaces for the kids to write ‘thankful’ words, then give them crayons and markers (age dependent of course) and allow them to create the Thanksgiving tablecloth. The pride you’ll see when they see their creation front and center on the table is something to behold.

Create a Gratitude Turkey

Teaching gratitude is something we can never start too early. This easy and simple DIY project is fun and shares with our children a fundamental value that will carry on through their lives. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Small paper plate
• Small dixie cup
• Empty toilet paper tube
• Paint- orange, black and brown
• Glue
• Scissors
• Googly eyes
• Assorted colors of construction paper
• Black markers

The complete tutorial is here.

Pumpkin Toss Game

Who is the most competitive in your family? This game is easy to make (Mom & Dad you’ll be making the game) and so much fun to play! Here’s what you’ll need for supplies.

• 3 DecoArt Americana Acrylic Paints- orange colors of your choice
• Foam brush
• 3D Poster Board
• X-Acto knife
• Pencil
• Ping-Pong Balls

How to complete- Tutorial here.

How do you keep the kids entertained on Thanksgiving Day? What traditions do they love to participate in? We’d love for you to share on our Facebook page. 

After a red-hot real estate market during the pandemic & subsequent months, rising interest rates have cooled the chaos. But does that necessarily mean bad news for buyers? Maybe not, here’s why.

When the housing market skyrocketed, many would-be homeowners found themselves in a position of being unable to buy due to tons of cash offers and bidding wars that went sky-high, most-often thousands of dollars above asking price and almost always all contingencies waived. With interest rates rising, home prices are now edging down. 

In a recent Bloomberg article (October 2022) by Teresa Ghilarducci titled “Looking to Buy a House? It’s Not the Worst Time to Buy” she states “Buying an asset when the price is falling is generally a good thing. Buying a home now when mortgage rates are high and housing prices are falling means as mortgage rates stabilize or even drop, your house value will more likely inflate than if prices were rapidly increasing and mortgage rates were increasing. Rising mortgage interest rates and a potential recession may seem like bad news, but these trends could benefit would-be home buyers by cooling demand and dropping prices further, especially if the buyers are confident, they won’t lose their jobs and income.”  She further explained “Of course, a would-be home buyer must consider other important criteria besides housing prices before buying a house. Other important decision factors include having at least 20% for a down payment; whether you will live in the property for more than five years; and whether your monthly payment will be lower than 30% of your gross income.”

Although some may feel that buying a home while inflation & interest rates are higher is less than ideal, it may be a perfect time if you can afford it. You will avoid the bidding wars that kept so many buyers out of the market previously and you can refinance when the FED lowers interest rates, which some experts predict will start happening in 2023. 

If you’re considering a home purchase, or have questions about buying in this new market, please reach out and schedule a time with us to discuss your needs, options, and homes available to you.

Nancy Heim-Berg and The Heim-Berg Team
402-677-9024

Today more than ever we are all looking for ways to save money and one of our largest expenditures is our mortgage. While monthly budgets can get tight, utilizing a little extra money to pay down our largest expenditures can pay off BIG in the end. Here we’re going to look at ‘principal only’ mortgage payments and the effect they can have on your finances.

When you purchase a home and secure a mortgage through a lender, you are paying several components of that mortgage.

1. The principal- the amount of the loan needed to purchase the home.
2. Interest on that loan- a monthly interest payment calculated on the interest rate accessed to the loan.
3. If you put down less than 20% you are also paying PMI (private mortgage insurance)
4. Property taxes
5. You may also have your Homeowners Insurance tied into the loan as well and pay a monthly premium for that.

These 5 components make up your monthly mortgage payment. However, the principal component of the mortgage represents the amount of equity you accrue each month and essentially ‘buy-back’ from your mortgage lender.

If you currently have a 30-year mortgage, and never make any additional payments, it will take you 30 years to pay off the mortgage in full and pay the full amount of interest associated with the mortgage. For example, a $350,000 loan with a 5% interest rate would be $17,500 a year paid in interest alone!!!

By making a principal-only payment, in addition to your monthly mortgage payment, you are paying down the principal amount of your mortgage faster. If you were to pay a $100 principal-only payment today at the 5% interest rate, you’ll save $332 over 30 years. Now imagine doing that every month, or more if you can. It will put equity in your pocket much quicker, pay off the principal and loan faster and save you thousands of dollars in interest over the course of your loan.

Please don’t confuse making additional mortgage payments with a principal-only payment, as they are very different. If you choose to start making principal-only payments- in addition to your regular monthly mortgage loan payment, we suggest you call your lender and have them walk you through the process, so it is done correctly, and the monies are applied appropriately. Remember, a principal-only payment NEVER takes the place of your regular monthly loan payment. That must always be made monthly and on time. This would be an additional payment to help pay down the principal amount of your loan. Any questions regarding your loan should ALWAYS be directed to your lender.

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Are you looking for a home in the Omaha area right now? Our team is ready to be our local experience knowledge and expertise to work for you!  If you’re ready to begin the exciting home-buying journey, reach out!  The Heim-Berg Team- 402-677-9024

Halloween is fast approaching, and the kids are ready to have some fun! To have a safe and exciting Halloween for all, we’ve put together a list of some fantastic Trick or Treating activities around Omaha the whole family will enjoy.

Spooktacular Storytime

Saddlebrook Branch Library & Community Center have joined together to bring you a spooktacular event! October 25^th, from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. they will host a trick or treat followed by a story walk, crafts, and more. Come in your costumed best!

The Durham Museum presents…The Great HALL-oween Haunt!

October 25^th, from 5:00- 8:00 p.m, walk through spooky displays throughout the museum and trick or treat with historical characters! Play some ghostly games, ride a spooky train and make some creepy crafts! You’ll have a ghoulishly good time…just not scary. Learn more and get pricing at the link above.

Trunk or Treat in Farnam Hill

Trick or Treat with area non-profits! There will be games, face painting, bounce houses, great local food, shopping, and more. October 29^th, from 10:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Trick or Treat at Rockbrook Village

Are you ready to meet Chase from Paw Patrol & Woody from Toy Story?? Then you’ll want to check out Trick or Treating at Rockbrook Village participating stores on October 29^th, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Junk in the Trunk- Family Fun Day

The Schenzel Community Center is hosting Junk in the Trunk. Go out for a day of fun family activities, games, candy, and prizes. The event is scheduled to be inside and out, in case of colder weather. October 30^th, 10:00 to Noon.

Halloween Safe Night

Put on your costumes and get ready to trick or treat! You’ll get a free hot dog inside the community center and can even hop on a hayrack ride outside! Head over to the La Vista Community Center, on October 31^st from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

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Safety reminders:

1. Costumes should be flame-retardant & reflective.
2. Opt for hats and makeup vs face masks
3. Always wear comfortable shoes in the appropriate size.
4. Parents should inspect ALL candy before children eat any of it.
5. All children should be always accompanied by an adult when trick or treating or at an event.
6. If older children attend an event, ensure you have the address and names of parents and hosts in advance.

WISHING YOU ALL A SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN.