Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Mortgage
With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: The key to finding the right home loan for you is to look for one that you’ll feel comfortable with long after you've closed on your new property. In addition to comparing term lengths and mortgage rates, also consider how the loan will fit your daily life and preferences. To help you get started, we've rounded up four of the most important factors to consider when narrowing your list of potential mortgage options.
7 Weekend Projects to Boost Your Property Value
Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference.
But you don't have to embark on a major remodel to make a significant improvement.
Even minor updates can have a big impact on your home’s aesthetic, and certain renovations can even boost its future sale price.
From curb appeal to interior updates, here are seven.
2024 Mid-Year Update: The New ‘Normal’
2024 has been an odd year in the Real Estate Market. We started with such hope that the Federal Interest Rate and Mortgage Rates would start to come down in time for the Spring Real Estate Market. When rates didn't change (and mortgage rates actually increased), the real estate market has stalled out a bit in the 2nd quarter. In this episode we explain what has happened, how we're helping our clients adjust, and what's coming.
Economists say a persistent housing deficit—combined with tighter lending standards and historically high levels of home equity—will help keep the market stable.
What does that mean for you? Read on for our take on this year's most important real estate news and get a sneak peek into what analysts predict is around the corner for 2024.
The peak moving season is upon us. If you’re one of those millions of Americans yearning for a change, this guide is for you.
Sure, moving can feel overwhelming, and it’s notoriously stressful. But, we’ve outlined six steps to make your move easier. Our hope is to alleviate some of the hassle of relocating—so you can focus on the adventure ahead!
From wildfires to floods, the past few years have brought a historic number of devastating climate and weather events to the United States. In 2023 alone, there were 28 individual weather-related disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damages each.
These events triggered a huge influx of home insurance claims, and analysts expect the increase in both catastrophes and claims to continue. Adding to the problem, construction labor and supply costs have risen, making it more expensive to repair affected homes. Consequently, home insurance rates have surged: In 2024, Bankrate reports, premiums are already up an average of 23%, following double-digit increases the previous year.
But don’t panic! While these broader trends may be out of your control, there’s still plenty you can do to save. Here are our top six strategies to slash insurance premiums while maintaining the protection you need.
On March 15, 2024 The NAR agreed to settle a lawsuit that will impact how real estate business is conducted. While the results of the NAR settlement have yet to be approved, its impact will change the way real estate business is conducted and how consumers purchase real estate.
Realtors will still be required to represent their clients as a fiduciary agent honestly & ethically. Realtors & their clients will still arrive at the same destination of a real estate sale, but the route will be a little different.
When you’ve lived somewhere for many years, it can be tough to say goodbye. But if you (or a loved one) currently have a home that is bigger than necessary or is too high maintenance, it may be time to trade unused square footage for a smaller, more manageable space. Read on for specific tips, then call us for a free consultation. We can help you identify the types of homes that are best suited to living large with less.
One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas. If you plan to list or renovate your property, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.
A growing share of home buyers and sellers sat on the sidelines last year as the pace of home sales continued its downward trajectory. What does that mean for you? Read on to learn more about the current state of the U.S. housing market, the potential opportunities for buyers and sellers, and economists’ predictions for the year ahead.
If the thought of investing your money into brick and mortar—or perhaps some stylishly-painted siding—excites you, join the club. Investing in real estate has long been one of Americans’ favorite ways to grow their wealth. In fact, over 70% of single-family rental properties are currently owned by individual investors . . .
To avoid buyer’s remorse, be sure to consider your future self when shopping for a home.
Most new homebuyers don’t regret becoming homeowners. In fact, according to a survey by LendingTree, 80% of recent buyers who successfully overcame a challenging housing market say they’re glad they found their current homes. . .
Chris Bober’s Smoked Feather Bone Recipe
Noting beats Smoked Feather Bone Ribs! If cooked properly, they are just as good as baby back ribs at a fraction of the cost. They require a little more time to get tender, but they are worth the wait. You will need lots of napkins and toothpicks, but these ribs are a big hit! It's best to serve Chris Bober's Feather Bone Ribs are right away to enjoy the perfectly moist & tasty flavor. I like to serve with smoked beans, cole slaw, and cornbread.
Buying a new home is one of the most exciting experiences in life. And if you’re like most homebuyers, you’ll be planning your furniture placement and decor before the ink dries on your offer letter. But before you run to the nearest home goods store, take a deep breath. First, you’ll need to delay any major purchases before you close on your new home. A large outlay…
Not long ago, home sellers were in their heyday, as historically-low mortgage rates triggered a real estate buying frenzy. However, the Federal Reserve shut down the party when it began raising interest rates last year.
Now, it’s not as simple to sell a home. While pandemic-era homebuyers were racing the clock—trying to lock in . . .
Does your current home no longer serve your needs?
If so, you may be torn between relocating to a new home or renovating your existing one. This can be a difficult choice, and there’s a lot to consider—including potential costs, long-term financial implications, and quality of life. A major remodel can be a major commitment. From hiring contractors to selecting materials to managing a budget, it can take a tremendous amount of time and energy . . .
There’s an old adage in real estate: location, location, location. But ever since the Federal Reserve began its series of inflation-fighting interest rate hikes last year, a new mantra has emerged: mortgage rates, mortgage rates, mortgage rates.
Higher rates had the immediate impact of dampening homebuyer affordability and demand. But this year, we’re seeing further repercussions. While analysts expected listing inventory to swell as sales declined, instead, homeowners have been pushing. . .
How to Become a Homeowner on a First-Time Buyer’s Budget
It’s not easy being a first-time homebuyer right now. At the end of last year, housing affordability hit an all-time low. Additionally, mortgage rates have risen significantly since 2021, while inventory remains tight for many property categories, but especially for starter homes. Even lower-priced condos are harder to snag these days, as investors and downsizers muscle out first-timers by offering stronger, often cash-heavy bids.
Estate & Senior Real Estate Program
Helping our clients sell their parent's house is a big part of our business. Check out out latest podcast where Chris and Jen Bober discuss our "Estate & Senior Real Estate Program" and how we continue to serve our clients through difficult times. We have served our Estate and Senior Real Estate clients in this ways for many years and have developed a program that helps our clients when their focus is often on dealing with family matters. That's where we step in to help navigate the process to get their property sold.
Stress Free Home Cleaning
Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments, it’s tough to keep up with daily chores—let alone larger seasonal tasks.
The effort is worthwhile, however. A sanitary environment can keep you and your family healthier by minimizing your exposure to germs and allergens . . .
Financing Matters w/ Justin Pinkerton - Arbor Bank
In this episode of the Keeping it Real Estate Podcast we are joined by Justin Pinkerton from Arbor Bank. Justin is one of our favorite lenders and Arbor Bank is a proud partner of Nebraska Realty. Chris & Justin discuss the current challenges buyers face as they navigate the world of buying a home.
Justin focuses on educating his customers to understand their needs and wants. He works hard to understand a complete picture of their finances to ensure they are comfortable with the investment needed to purchase their home. His "Affordability Factor" takes into account their goals to meet their needs.
My Home Didn’t Sell! Now What?
When it comes to listing their home, most home sellers want three things: 1) to make a lot of money, 2) to put in minimal time and effort, and 3) to sell quickly. But the reality is, selling a home is rarely that simple. And homeowners who try to do it themselves—or receive bad advice—can end up stuck (months later) with a property that hasn’t sold.
If that’s you, don’t panic! We’ve outlined the top five reasons a home doesn’t sell—and action steps you can take to overcome each of these issues.
Team bober Vip buyer Program
2022 represented a major Shift in the Omaha Area Real Estate Market. It started as a very hot Seller's Market with mortgage rates around 3%. Since then rates have more than doubled which has put a major damper on affordability and buyer's became more hesitant.
Mortgage rates have stabilized and the Real Estate Market is picking up again to start 2023, but challenges remain for buyer's & sellers. In this episode of Keeping it Real Estate with Chris & Jennifer Bober we discuss how we have updated our systems and procedures to accommodate the shifting Market.
Over the past few years, many of us have spent extra time at home—and that means we appreciate the personal design touches that make a house cozy and comfortable more than ever. Some of us have adapted our dwellings in new ways, from creating functional home offices to upgrading the appliances we use most.
But while it’s important to make your home your own, it’s also smart to think about the long-term impact your renovations could have on its value.
The New & Updated Team Bober Listing Program
New Year, New Market, New Tactics
2022 represented a major Shift in the Omaha Area Real Estate Market. It started as a very hot Seller's Market with mortgage rates around 3%. Since then rates have more than doubled which has put a major damper on affordability and buyer's became more hesitant. 2022 will finish with 10%+ fewer transactions than the previous year which is the first time that's happened in a long time…
Check out this video on Team Bober’s YouTube Page (click the image)
2023 Real Estate Market Outlook (And What It Means for You)
Last year, one factor drove the real estate market more than any other: rising mortgage rates.
In March 2022, the Federal Reserve began a series of interest rate hikes in an effort to pump the brakes on inflation.1 And while some market sectors have been slow to respond, the housing market has reacted accordingly.
Both demand and price appreciation have tapered, as the primary challenge for homebuyers has shifted from availability to affordability. And although . . .
7 Tips to Maximize Your Home’s Sale Price
Over the past few years, a real estate buying frenzy drove up home prices to eye-popping amounts. However, as mortgage rates have risen, buyer demand has cooled. Consequently, home sellers who enter the market today may need to reset their expectations.
If you want to net the most money possible for your property, you’ll need an effective game plan and a skilled team of professionals to implement it. Fortunately, we’ve developed a listing strategy . . .
Home for the Holidays: How To Stretch Your Budget in a Season of Inflation
You don't have to break the bank to celebrate the holidays in style—even in this season of inflation. Prices may be higher on everything from food to gifts to decorations, but there are still plenty of opportunities to eke out extra savings.
For example, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save a couple of hundred dollars a year just by sealing your home and boosting its insulation.1 Other small fixes—such as swapping old light bulbs for LEDs and plugging electronics into a powerstrip—can boost your yearly savings enough to pay off some of your holiday budget.