It's mighty cold here in Omaha. But there are some great ways to stay warm this winter. Omaha boast some of the best coffee shops anywhere in the state of Nebraska. So if you're feeling adventurous, try out some of these fine coffee houses and try something new while you warm up.

Howlin' Hounds Coffee

712 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Come and experience premium coffee and service at our coffee shop located at 712 South 16th Street. They offer free Wi-Fi and have ample space available for meetings and other events. Thier goal was to create a welcoming space for their neighbors and friends to gather and enjoy quality time together.

Rally Coffee Co.

749 N 14th St, Omaha, NE 68102

Rally Coffee offers locally roasted coffee and a breakfast menu that focuses on simple quality. Thier belief is in sourcing great coffees that are in season and roasting them in a way that brings out their unique flavor profiles in the cup you drink.

Hardy Coffee Co.

1031 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68102

Cozy nook with exposed brick & a covered patio featuring espresso drinks & live entertainment. Hardy Coffee Co. has four brick and mortar locations in Omaha.

Archetype Coffee

3926 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131

Bare- & brick-walled hangout with outdoor tables preparing coffee, cold brew & espresso drinks. If you want fantastic nitro brew, lattes, or home brewed chai, Archetype is the place to go in Omaha. 

Bad Seed Coffee & Supply

2452 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68131

Bad Seed's mission is to source, protect, and brew coffee in a manner that honors the farmers, excites the consumers, and exceeds expectations. They strive to perfect the nuances that transform a good cup into an exceptional one. Their purpose is to guarantee that the coffee that fills your mug enriches your life.

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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! 

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.

As we enter the new year, it's the perfect time to breathe new life into our homes. And what better way to start than by giving well-deserved attention to our often-overlooked floors? Whether you're gearing up for a major makeover or simply replacing worn-out surfaces, 2024 promises an array of exciting flooring trends, transforming your space into a haven of style and comfort.

1. Warm Tile Tones for a Moody Elegance

Step into 2024 with a burst of warmth underfoot! Tile design is turning towards inviting hues like cream, beige, and grey, blending different large formats and tonalities to craft captivating patterns. Jordana Moche, the maestro behind Porcelanosa NYC, predicts a surge in popularity for medium and darker wood-effect tiles and earth-toned flooring. Picture a home with a cozy, moody charm—a true retreat with a touch of hospitality.

2. Retro Carpet Revolution: Nostalgia with a Twist

Hold on to your hats because the carpet revolution is here! Audra Keiber, Mohawk's design and development virtuoso, hints at a retro resurgence in 2024. Like vintage furnishings and retro colorways, carpets are making a stylish comeback. Step away from the mundane gray and embrace the unique patterns and warm tones of this nod to nostalgia. Our top pick? The upcoming Karastan release, Stitchery, weaves a classic herringbone pattern with traditional colorways for a truly inspiring finish.

3. Familiar Farmhouse Flooring with a Modern Twist

The modern farmhouse style still reigns supreme in 2024. According to Adam Vester, Mohawk's design maven, farmhouse trends are evolving towards warm minimalism with Scandinese influences. Raw textures and organic forms meet Scandi minimalism, creating a visually clean backdrop that transforms living spaces into soft-spoken retreats. Embrace the familiarity of farmhouse flooring with a modern, sophisticated twist.

4. Innovative Sustainable Floors: A Green Revolution

Eco-conscious living takes center stage as sustainability and inclusivity drive flooring choices. Audra Keiber emphasizes Mohawk's commitment to sustainability, introducing innovative bio-based flooring alternatives. Expect clean, renewable, and sustainable materials to take the lead in 2024. Join the green revolution and explore flooring options that align with your values.

5. Hardwood Floors Reign Supreme in Kitchens

In 2024, we'll see kitchens graced by the enduring elegance of hardwood floors. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, unveils the trend, with a quarter of renovating homeowners opting for stained or unstained hardwood. Get ready for smooth surfaces, raw wood tones, and wide planks. While lighter hues make waves, rustic wood's earthy charm remains a steadfast favorite. Dive into the classic herringbone pattern for an elegant and classy appearance.

6. A Nod to Nostalgia Across Hard Surfaces

Nostalgia isn't confined to carpets alone—hard surfaces are joining the trip down memory lane in 2024. Adam Vester reveals a trend characterized by clean lines and a pared-back aesthetic. Visualize wood and laminate flooring with enhanced wood looks, featuring more minor character knots. This fusion of midcentury modernism with retro seventies vibes and futuristic elements creates an environment that transcends time, offering a sense of timeless elegance.

7. Universal Design for All: Future-Proofing Homes

Homeowners are embracing universal design principles, renovating with everyone in mind. Future-proofing becomes key, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all. Mitchell Parker points out the rising trend of addressing special needs during renovations, focusing on safety. Think nonslip bathroom flooring—a simple yet crucial upgrade that enhances safety for all ages.

In 2024, let your floors tell a story of warmth, nostalgia, and sustainability. Embrace the trends that resonate with your style, and transform your space into a haven of excitement and authenticity. Prepare for a year when flooring becomes the star of your home's design narrative!

Ready for more homeowner tips? Remember to follow us on our Facebook page!

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! 

The start of a new year is a perfect time to show gratitude. Thank you for being a part of our journey and trusting us with your business. Wishing you a prosperous year ahead in 2024!

Here are some events coming up in Omaha to help you ring in the new year.

New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular

Sun, Dec 31, 7 – 8 PM
CHI Health Center
455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE

Enjoy breathtaking fireworks from the comfort of your car this New Year's Eve! Free parking lots open at 6pm near CHI Health Center (MECA Lots A, B, and C) and Gallup University Campus (1001 Gallup Drive). Fireworks will launch from MECA Lot D at midnight. Tune your radio to STAR 104.5 FM to hear synchronized music during the show.

New Years Eve @ The Granary!

Dec 31, 2023, 1 PM – Jan 1, 2024, 2 AM
Venues at The Granary
5555 Granary Plaza Suite 101, Ralston, NE

New Year’s Eve at the Granary is back for Nebraska’s second annual LIVE New Year’s Outdoor Ball Drop!

This premier Midwest NYE destination offers three exciting party venues to welcome the new year. Dance the night away with a live DJ in the lively Bushwackers area or enjoy the exclusive VIP experience with live music, special menus, and private balcony access. Upgrade to a private VIP cabana with bottle service and decor for you and 9 guests. At midnight, usher in 2024 with Nebraska's biggest live ball drop outside on the Granary Green, followed by a dazzling fireworks show. With entertainment options for everyone, the Granary's New Year's Eve celebration is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

The party culminates in a spectacular midnight celebration on the Granary Green, where Nebraska's largest live ball drop counts down the seconds to 2024 on a 27-foot LED screen. As the glowing ball descends, a DJ spins party music to match the custom video countdown. Cheers erupt when the ball drops at midnight, followed by a dazzling fireworks display. This memorable New Year's Eve bash is an event not to be missed!

New Year's Eve At Slowdown

Sun, Dec 31, 9 – 11 PM
Slowdown
729 N 14th St, Omaha, NE

Get ready to dance into a new year with Omaha's best New Year's Eve party! DJs, dancing, and champagne toast at midnight.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available and include:
- Private bar with 1 cent drinks all night long: Premium Wells, Several canned beer options, House red and white wine, Champagne.
- Balcony access
- Appetizer buffet from 8-10pm

Happy New Year 2024!

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!

The Heim-Berg Team would like to wish all of our clients and family the very best this holiday season. Thank you for letting us help you make your real estate reams a reality in 2023!

To help round out the season, here are a few holiday events planned in Omaha this week.

Christmas at Union Station

Sat, Dec 23, 12 AM
The Durham Museum
801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE

The magic of Christmas continues at The Durham Museum with a long-standing tradition that includes Omaha's official Christmas tree, holiday concerts, and visits from Santa Claus himself, and we hope you will join us for the festivities!

Winter Wonderland

Thorugh Jan 2, 2024, 5 PM
Fontenelle Forest
1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue, NE

Each December, we transform our Great Hall into a Winter Wonderland for all to enjoy. The forest setting of Fontenelle Forest creates a magical holiday experience where families can start new traditions and make lifelong memories.

Holiday Concert Series

Sat, Dec 23, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
The Durham Museum
801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE

Enjoy beautiful holiday music performed by talented local entertainers under the glow of The Durham Museum's 40-foot Christmas tree as part of the museum's holiday concert series.

Happy Holidays from The Heim-Berg Team!

The holiday season is upon us, and while you're busy planning your festive getaway, ensuring your home stays safe and secure is crucial. As your local real estate expert, I'd like to share some invaluable tips to keep burglars away while you enjoy your holiday travels.

Light Up Your Home:

A well-lit home is a deterrent for would-be breakins. Investing in timers for your indoor and outdoor lights creates the illusion of an occupied home, even when you're miles away. Motion sensor lights are also an excellent addition to enhance security.

Secure Entry Points:

Double-check all doors and windows before leaving. Reinforce entry points with deadbolts and secure sliding doors with bars or dowels. A safe home starts with fortified entryways.

Maintain a Lived-In Look:

Lean on a trusted neighbor or friend to collect mail, packages, and newspapers. A buildup of deliveries signals an empty home. If you're away for an extended period, consider pausing mail and package deliveries.

Smart Home Security:

Invest in smart home security systems with cameras and alarms. Utilize modern technology allows you to monitor your home remotely, receive alerts, and even control lights and thermostats from your smartphone.

Landscaping Matters:

Keep your yard well-maintained to avoid the appearance of an empty home. Trim bushes and hedges that could provide cover for burglars and ensure a well-kept appearance.

Social Media Caution:

Avoid publicizing any holiday travel plans on social media platforms. Sharing your vacation details on any public platform can attract the wrong kind of attention. Save the posts and updates for when you're safely back home.

Secure Valuables:

Always store valuables in a safe or secure location. Consider taking important documents, jewelry, and small valuables with you or utilizing a safe deposit box.

Neighborhood Watch:

Engage with your local neighborhood watch if available. Neighbors looking out for each other can be an effective way to deter criminal activity.

Emergency Contact List:

Provide a trusted neighbor or friend with your contact information for an emergency. Having someone nearby who can quickly respond to a possible issue, adds an extra layer of security.

Police Notification:

If you are away for an extended period, inform your local police department. Some areas offer vacation checks where officers will periodically drive by and inspect your property.

NOTE: A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your home remains a safe haven during your holiday travels. 

We wish you a joyful and secure holiday season!

Safe travels and secure homes,

The Heim-Berg Team

When renovating your Omaha home within a limited budget, prioritizing projects can be challenging. Even if you have $12,000 to spend, upgrading the fence, patio, bathroom, and kitchen cabinets (each around $3,000) would exceed the total budget. You'll need to determine the order of importance among these desired upgrades to stay within your budgetary constraints.

Renovating your Omaha home can be a tricky conundrum, especially if you’re trying to avoid going broke in the process. Moving forward with renovations can cause anxiety if you don’t properly research, set a budget, and determine each project's return on investment. Before swinging that hammer, take the time to thoughtfully plan your renovation approach. This will help ensure you can make the upgrades you want without having to sell your house to pay for them.

Ask yourself why you're doing it

Before beginning a renovation, identify your objective—whether it's increasing rental income, boosting resale value, personal enjoyment, keeping up with neighbors, generating flipping profits, or something else important to you. Knowing your goal upfront will help you stay focused and make the right choices once the work is underway.

Prioritize

When funds are limited, renovations to frequently used items or those you can appreciate regularly may be a better investment than a major project like adding a covered patio. Even if a patio is appealing, carefully consider whether you'll use it enough to justify the cost. Building one could lead to more expenses like outdoor furniture, electronics, climate control devices, and décor. If you don't enjoy being outside much, directing funds toward interior renovations could bring more daily enjoyment. With any major home project, have honest conversations with yourself about its benefits versus the costs, both financial and practical.

Consider your budget

Regarding the budget, certain renovations are clearly more expensive than others. Some projects may also be higher priority for you than others. Many people struggle with wanting instant gratification (I'm certainly guilty of that!). It might be wise to start with a few minor upgrades that will give you a sense of progress. Alternatively, you could save aggressively for a couple months to afford the dream kitchen countertops you've been wanting.

Ask around

You may be able to reduce your hard costs by hiring a skilled handyman rather than a flooring company to install your floors. You could also take advantage of special offers from big box stores like Home Depot's current free carpet installation promotion to lower costs. Signing up for daily emails from Home Depot and Lowes provides access to limited-time deals that can save money. These retailers send Daily Deals valid for one day or until sold out.

Consider the ROI

If you cannot determine which renovation provides more value based on your needs, consider the potential return on investment. One project may offer a higher ROI than the other. Consult the Cost vs. Value Report, which compares the average cost and resale value of 21 popular remodeling projects across 149 markets. This report is an excellent resource for assessing renovation ROI.

Assess Your House

Hire a licensed home inspector to thoroughly examine your house before deciding on renovation plans. Have the inspector climb into the attic to check for dampness, scan the basement for leaks, test the HVAC systems, inspect the roof, plumbing, and electrical panels. Although you may want to update the master bath and re-face the fireplace, more pressing maintenance issues could require attention first. Evaluate the home inspector's findings to determine the most urgent priorities and develop an action plan.

Think about everyday costs

While new appliances and home upgrades like doors and windows require an upfront investment, their energy efficiency will save you money regularly in the long run.

Renovating your Omaha home may be one of the bigger challenges you'll take on as a home owner. But it can be a profitable and rewarding experience if you follow these tips.

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!

Fontenelle Forest's Winter Wonderland event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with your family. This weekend, you can enjoy a variety of holiday-inspired arts and crafts, indulge in delicious hot cocoa, take a festive caroling hike, participate in habitat-building activities, meet Santa Claus, and even have the opportunity to interact with birds of prey. It's a fun-filled event that offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Bellevue Berry Farm is excited to invite everyone to our Country Christmas event. Join us in our cozy country atmosphere where you can warm up with a cup of Hot Cocoa and decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus. Don't forget to take a picture with Santa and write your Christmas list. Our farm offers a variety of activities, including Kids Play Areas, a Bonfire, and a Holiday Trail of Lights that you can enjoy on a Wagon Ride. We also provide free self-serve Ornament decorating, and if you're interested, Face Painting and Balloons are available for an additional cost.

 Holiday Lites is an annual production by Brigit Saint Brigit that celebrates the diverse customs and celebrations of the year-end season. It is a collaborative effort between Benson Theatre and Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre Company, combining technological artistry with immersive charm to create a magical and eclectic evening of live theatre. The lineup includes a mix of touching, humorously irreverent, classical, and original performances, featuring both audience favorites and brand-new creations. It is a truly unique and enjoyable experience for all.

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!

Sending our warmest Thanksgiving greetings from The Heim-Berg Team. We appreciate your continued support!

If you need a bit of help with your Thanksgiving meal, here are some local options in Omaha to help you make this the best Thanksgiving Day ever!

Restaurants in Omaha Open on Thanksgiving Day

Astoria Indian Restaurant, 5010 S. 108th St, Omaha; 402-934-5054

Beacon Hills 6750 Mercy Rd, Omaha; 402-933-3115

Cascio’s Steakhouse 1620 S 10th St, Omaha; 402-345-8313

Cracker Barrel 9409 S. 142nd St., Omaha (other locations also available); 402-891-8665

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 140 Regency Parkway., Omaha; 402-393-0811

J. Gilbert’s 1010 Capitol Ave. Omaha; 531-222-9218

Johnny’s Cafe 4702 S 27th St, Omaha; 402-731-4774

Orleans Room Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel 302 S. 36th St. Omaha; 833-404-6981

Sullivan’s Steakhouse 222 S. 15th St., Omaha; 402-342-0077

Texas de Brazil 1110 Capitol Ave, Omaha; 402-783-8074

Dine-at-Home Without the Fuss

Baker’s 

Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering 

Catering Creations 

Cracker Barrel 

HyVee 

Jerico’s 

Small Cakes 

Vala’s 

Village Inn 

Whole Foods 

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

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!