In recent months, the real estate market in Omaha has experienced a noticeable slowdown, with many houses lingering on the market longer than expected. This phenomenon has puzzled both sellers and real estate professionals, prompting a deeper look into the factors contributing to this trend. In this blog post, we'll explore five key reasons why houses are not selling in Omaha: improper staging, overpricing, market shifts, economic uncertainty, and the impact of an election year. 1. Not Staging Properly: The Impact of Presentation One of the most common reasons houses fail to sell quickly is improper staging. Staging a home is the process of strategically arranging furniture and decor to showcase the property in its best light, making it more appealing to potential buyers. In Omaha, where buyers have a variety of options, proper staging can make a significant difference. Why Staging Matters: First Impressions: Buyers often form an opinion about a house within the first few minutes of seeing it. Proper staging can create a positive first impression, highlighting the home's strengths and downplaying any weaknesses. Emotional Connection: Staging helps buyers envision themselves living in the space. When a home feels inviting and functional, buyers are more likely to develop an emotional connection, which can be a powerful motivator in the decision-making process. Competitive Edge: In a market where multiple homes are competing for attention, a well-staged home stands out. It can be the deciding factor that makes a buyer choose one property over another. Common Staging Mistakes: Clutter and Personal Items: Homes that are cluttered or filled with personal items can be distracting for buyers. It's important to create a neutral space that allows buyers to imagine their own belongings in the home. Poor Furniture Arrangement: Furniture placement should highlight the flow of the home and make spaces appear larger. Overcrowded rooms or awkward layouts can make a home feel cramped and uninviting. Ignoring Curb Appeal: The exterior of the home is just as important as the interior. Neglecting landscaping, exterior paint, and overall curb appeal can deter buyers before they even step inside. Solutions: Hire a Professional Stager: Professional stagers have the expertise to transform a home into a buyer's dream. They understand current trends and know how to maximize a home's appeal. DIY Staging Tips: For those on a budget, there are plenty of resources available online that offer DIY staging tips. Simple steps like decluttering, rearranging furniture, and adding fresh flowers can make a big difference. 2. Overpricing: The Pitfalls of Setting the Wrong Price Another major factor contributing to the slowdown in house sales in Omaha is overpricing. Setting the right price for a home is crucial, as it determines how many potential buyers will consider the property. The Importance of Accurate Pricing: Market Dynamics: The real estate market is constantly changing. What was a fair price six months ago may no longer be relevant. Pricing a home accurately requires a deep understanding of current market conditions. Buyer Perception: Overpriced homes can deter buyers from even considering a viewing. Buyers are often well-informed and can quickly identify when a property is priced too high. Time on Market: Homes that are overpriced tend to stay on the market longer. The longer a home sits unsold, the more likely buyers are to question why it hasn't sold, leading to further reluctance to make an offer. Reasons for Overpricing: Emotional Attachment: Sellers often have an emotional attachment to their homes, leading them to overestimate its value. Personal memories and experiences can cloud judgment. Lack of Market Knowledge: Without a comprehensive understanding of the local market, sellers may price their homes based on outdated information or comparisons to non-similar properties. Unrealistic Expectations: Some sellers have unrealistic expectations about the market, believing their home should fetch a higher price than comparable properties. Solutions: Work with a Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help determine an accurate price. They have access to recent sales data and understand market trends. Be Open to Adjustments: If a home isn't selling, it may be necessary to adjust the price. Reducing the price can attract new buyers and generate fresh interest in the property. 3. Market Shift: Understanding the Changing Landscape The real estate market is not static; it undergoes periodic shifts that can impact how quickly homes sell. In Omaha, recent market shifts have played a role in the current slowdown. Market Shifts and Their Impact: Supply and Demand: A shift in the balance of supply and demand can significantly impact the market. An increase in housing supply without a corresponding rise in demand can lead to longer selling times. Buyer Preferences: Changes in buyer preferences can affect how certain properties are perceived. For example, if buyers start prioritizing newer homes with modern amenities, older homes may struggle to compete. Economic Factors: Broader economic trends, such as interest rate changes and employment rates, can influence the real estate market. When the economy is uncertain, buyers may be more hesitant to make large purchases. Recent Market Shifts in Omaha: Increased Inventory: Omaha has seen an increase in housing inventory, giving buyers more options to choose from. This increased competition means sellers need to work harder to make their homes stand out. Changing Buyer Demographics: The demographics of buyers in Omaha are evolving. Millennials, who now make up a significant portion of the market, have different preferences and priorities compared to previous generations. Solutions: Stay Informed: Sellers and real estate agents need to stay informed about market trends and adjust their strategies accordingly. Understanding the current market landscape is crucial for making informed decisions. Adapt Marketing Strategies: Marketing strategies should be tailored to appeal to current buyer preferences. Highlighting features that are in demand, such as energy efficiency and smart home technology, can make a property more attractive. 4. Uncertainty with the Economy: The Ripple Effect Economic uncertainty is another significant factor contributing to the slowdown in house sales. When the economy is uncertain, both buyers and sellers can become cautious. Economic Factors at Play: Interest Rates: Interest rates play a crucial role in the real estate market. Higher interest rates can make mortgages more expensive, reducing the number of buyers who can afford to purchase a home. Job Security: When the economy is uncertain, concerns about job security can make potential buyers hesitant to take on the financial commitment of a mortgage. Inflation: Rising inflation can impact purchasing power, making it more difficult for buyers to save for a down payment or qualify for a mortgage. Current Economic Climate: Post-Pandemic Recovery: The economy is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. While there have been positive signs of recovery, there are still uncertainties that affect consumer confidence. Global Factors: Global economic factors, such as trade tensions and geopolitical instability, can also influence the local real estate market. Solutions: Flexible Financing Options: Offering flexible financing options, such as seller financing or assistance with closing costs, can make a property more attractive to buyers who are concerned about economic uncertainty. Highlight Stability: Emphasizing the stability and growth potential of the Omaha area can help reassure buyers. Showcasing strong local employment opportunities and community amenities can build confidence. 5. Election Year: The Political Influence Election years often bring a unique set of challenges to the real estate market. Political uncertainty and the potential for policy changes can impact buyer and seller behavior. The Impact of Election Years: Uncertainty: The potential for changes in tax policies, housing regulations, and economic policies can create uncertainty. Buyers and sellers may adopt a wait-and-see approach until after the election. Consumer Confidence: Political campaigns and debates can influence consumer confidence. Negative rhetoric or concerns about the future can make people hesitant to make significant financial decisions. Market Fluctuations: Election years can lead to fluctuations in the stock market and broader economy, which can indirectly impact the real estate market. Current Election Year Factors: Policy Proposals: During an election year, policy proposals related to housing can become a central issue. Potential changes to tax incentives, mortgage interest deductions, and affordable housing initiatives can influence buyer and seller behavior. Media Coverage: The extensive media coverage of elections can shift focus away from the real estate market, leading to decreased buyer activity. Solutions: Stay Neutral: Real estate agents and sellers should remain neutral and focus on the tangible benefits of the property. Highlighting the long-term value of the home can help counteract short-term political uncertainty. Educate Buyers: Providing buyers with information about how past election years have impacted the market can help alleviate concerns. Emphasizing the resilience of the real estate market can build confidence. Conclusion Understanding why houses are not selling in Omaha requires a comprehensive look at multiple factors. Improper staging, overpricing, market shifts, economic uncertainty, and the impact of an election year all play significant roles. By addressing these issues and adapting strategies accordingly, sellers and real estate professionals can navigate the challenges of the current market and improve the chances of a successful sale. In a dynamic market like Omaha, staying informed and flexible is key. Whether it's investing in professional staging, pricing a home accurately, or understanding the broader economic and political landscape, proactive steps can make a significant difference. With the right approach, sellers can turn the current challenges into opportunities and achieve their real estate goals.

If you’re a military family, then you already know: PCS (Permanent Change of Station) season feels like a never-ending carousel of chaos. Just when you’ve unpacked the last box and found the perfect spot for that family heirloom, orders drop, and it’s time to start all over again. It’s like being part of a nomadic tribe, except instead of camels, you’ve got a moving truck, and instead of roaming the desert, you’re crossing the country (or the globe). But hey, frequent moves don’t have to turn your life upside down every time. After years of doing this myself and helping military families with their real estate needs, I’ve gathered a few tried-and-true tips to help you streamline the whole process. Ready to manage the chaos like a pro? Let’s dive in. 1. Plan Ahead, but Be Ready for Change If there’s one thing we know about military life, it’s that nothing ever goes 100% according to plan. Orders can change, timelines shift, and you’re left scrambling at the last minute. Still, planning ahead is key. Start by creating a rough timeline as soon as you know a move is on the horizon. Pro Tip: Make sure to pack a “Go Bag” with essentials, just in case your timeline shifts suddenly. This bag should include important documents, a couple of changes of clothes, toiletries, chargers, and some snacks (because no one wants to be hangry while navigating a cross-country move). And here’s where a tiny dose of sarcasm comes in: If the military taught me anything, it’s to expect the unexpected. So, when your meticulously laid-out plan gets flipped upside down, just roll with it. You knew it was coming, right? 2. Declutter Like Your Life Depends on It You know that box that’s been sitting in the garage since the last move, still unopened? Yeah, it’s time to let it go. Frequent movers need to be ruthless when it comes to decluttering. Before every move, take inventory of what you really need, what you use, and what’s just taking up space. Tip: Follow the “One-Year Rule.” If you haven’t used or worn something in the last year, donate it, sell it, or toss it. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you have fewer boxes to pack (and unpack). Plus, fewer items mean less time and money spent on packing. Who knew minimalism could be so liberating, right? 3. Create a Moving Binder (Yes, Really) You’re probably rolling your eyes at the thought of having yet another binder, but hear me out. A moving binder is a lifesaver. In it, keep copies of orders, housing paperwork, moving company contracts, and any other important documents related to the move. Organize it by tabs for easy access. Bonus points if you throw in a section for a checklist. Because nothing feels quite as satisfying as checking off “find new dentist” or “cancel utilities” while the rest of the world spins out of control. 4. Make Use of Your Resources The military actually offers a ton of resources to help with moves, but sometimes they’re like hidden Easter eggs—hard to find unless you know where to look. From reimbursement programs like DLA (Dislocation Allowance) to the use of the DITY (Do It Yourself) move option, the military tries to cushion the blow of constant moving. And let’s not forget the housing office on base, which can help you navigate finding housing at your new location. They’re not miracle workers, but they can help you find a temporary roof over your head until your furniture arrives. If you’re the DIY type, consider the personally procured move (PPM) where you manage your move on your own and pocket the savings. If you’re more of the “let someone else do it” type, go with the full-service move option, where movers pack, ship, and unload for you. Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with Military OneSource and its endless supply of moving tools and advice. Whether you need relocation assistance or counseling after the move (yes, moving can be that stressful), Military OneSource is your go-to. 5. Get the Kids (and Pets) On Board Let’s face it, while you’re drowning in logistics, your kids are probably feeling anxious about starting at a new school or leaving their friends behind. And your dog—well, let’s just say that as much as Rover loves you, he’s not a fan of all the commotion either. Make the transition easier for everyone by involving your kids in the process. Let them pack a “Moving Day” box with their favorite toys, snacks, and activities to keep them occupied. Try to keep routines as normal as possible to maintain some sense of stability. For pets, check out the vet early, update any vaccinations, and get health certificates if you’re moving across state or country lines. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling for vet records while your dog’s crying in the back seat of the car. Kids and pets are basically the same during moves—both need constant reassurance, snacks, and maybe a nap (which I’d argue you need too). 6. Master the Art of Temporary Living One thing you’ll learn as a military family is that temporary living is just part of the gig. Whether you’re camping out in base lodging or staying at an Airbnb for a few weeks (or months), mastering temporary living will save you a lot of headaches. Tip: Pack a “First Week” box with essentials like sheets, towels, kitchen basics, and some basic food items so you can survive until the rest of your stuff arrives. The first week after a move is not the time to be searching for your favorite coffee mug—it’s time for survival mode. Also, familiarize yourself with the Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) that helps cover expenses for short-term accommodations during your transition. It won’t make temporary living glamorous, but it will certainly make it less stressful. 7. Label Boxes Like a Pro This is where the OCD tendencies come in handy. Labeling boxes is an art form, and the more detailed you are, the better. Instead of just writing “Kitchen,” go a step further: “Kitchen – Plates, Glasses, Utensils.” You’ll thank yourself when you’re searching for your can opener on the first night in your new place and don’t have to rummage through every “Kitchen” box. Color-coding can also save you a ton of time. Assign each room a color and slap the corresponding colored tape on each box. Then, when you’re at your new home, you can immediately sort boxes into the right rooms. Here’s the truth: You will still end up with a mystery box or two, no matter how much labeling you do. But hey, at least it’ll be a fun surprise when you open it, right? 8. Accept the Imperfection of Military Moves Alright, let’s get real. No matter how many tips and tricks you follow, military moves are rarely picture-perfect. Things will get lost. Boxes will arrive late. You’ll wonder why you even bothered organizing everything when your movers handle your items like a rugby team. But here’s the key: learn to laugh about it. In the grand scheme of things, these moves are just part of the adventure that is military life. Embrace the mess, laugh at the chaos, and remember that you’re not alone in this. 9. Join the Online Military Community One of the best things about being in the military is the community that comes with it. And while you may be moving away from your current duty station friends, there are countless online groups and forums where military families share tips, vent about frustrations, and give recommendations. If you’re looking for housing recommendations, PCS tips, or just someone to talk to who understands the crazy, Facebook groups like “Military PCS with Kids” or websites like MilitaryByOwner are great resources. Plus, you might find your next best friend at the new duty station in one of these forums. Pro Tip: Social media groups often know the ins and outs of specific bases and can provide real-time advice that the official channels might miss. 10. Give Yourself Grace At the end of the day, you are managing something that many people never experience. Uprooting your life, moving to a new location, and starting over again is no easy feat. It’s okay if you don’t have everything together. Some days, just getting through the day is an accomplishment. It’s not always going to be seamless or stress-free, and guess what? That’s perfectly fine. Every move is a learning experience, and if you can make it through one, you can make it through them all. Final Thoughts Frequent moves might be one of the most challenging aspects of military life, but they’re also a testament to your resilience and adaptability. With the right mindset and a few clever hacks, you can manage the chaos like a seasoned pro. Just remember, no matter how many times you pack up and start over, you’re always home as long as you have your loved ones with you. So, take a deep breath, grab your moving binder (you know you want one now), and tackle the next PCS with confidence. Because, like it or not, you’ve got this down to a science.

The peak moving season is upon us, and if you're one of the millions of Americans yearning for a change, this relocation guide is tailored to help you settle into Omaha with ease. While moving can feel overwhelming and stressful, we’ve outlined a comprehensive plan to make your move to Omaha a positive experience, allowing you to focus on the exciting adventure ahead! For more details, check out our FREE Omaha Relocation Guide. 1. CHOOSE A COMMUNITY When planning your move to Omaha, selecting the right community is crucial. Consider areas that align with your lifestyle, whether you prefer urban living or a quieter suburban environment. Omaha offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and amenities. Research areas that are close to your work, schools, and other essential services. Keep in mind that public transportation in Omaha is limited, so proximity to major roads or highways may be important if you plan to commute. 2. FIND YOUR NEW HOME Once you've chosen a community, the next step is to find your new home. Whether you're looking to rent or buy, Omaha offers a range of housing options to suit your needs. Rental properties are available in various neighborhoods, while buying a home provides stability and potential investment benefits. Consider working with a local real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you find the perfect home in Omaha or read our Buyer's Guide to help you find your home. 3. SELL OR RENT OUT YOUR CURRENT HOME If you currently own a home, you'll need to decide whether to sell or rent it out. Selling your home can provide funds for your move to Omaha, while renting it out can offer a source of passive income. Evaluate the current market conditions and consult with a real estate professional to determine the best course of action for your situation. 4. PLAN YOUR DEPARTURE Preparing for your move to Omaha involves careful planning and organization. With the right plan and support, you can navigate this process smoothly. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your departure: Informing Your Children: Share the news of the move with your children in a way that is suitable for their age. Taking them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood can make the transition easier for them. Don’t forget to contact their current and future schools to arrange for transfer and enrollment. Packing Strategically: Start packing early and pack one room at a time to maintain order. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. Use this opportunity to declutter and donate items you no longer need. Choosing a Moving Company: Research moving companies and get quotes to find a reputable service. Avoid paying a large deposit before your belongings are delivered. Once you have a moving date, arrange to have your utilities turned off or transferred to the new homeowner’s name. Saying Goodbye: Schedule time for proper goodbyes with friends and family before your departure. It can be challenging to leave behind a home and community you love, but focusing on the exciting opportunities ahead can help ease the transition. Seeking Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether you need referrals for moving companies, packing services, or housekeepers, we’re here to assist you every step of the way and please get our free seller's guide. 5. PREPARE FOR YOUR ARRIVAL To ensure a smooth transition to Omaha, plan ahead for your arrival. Arrange for essential utilities to be turned on in your new home, such as water, electricity, and gas. Notify relevant parties about your change of address, including banks, credit card companies, and subscriptions. Consider any remodeling or renovations you may want to undertake before moving in. Pack a box of essentials for your first night, including toiletries, bed linens, and basic kitchen supplies. 6. GET SETTLED IN YOUR NEW SPACE Once you've arrived in the Omaha metro area, take the time to get settled into your new home and community. Unpack one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors and get involved in local activities to meet new people. Explore your new surroundings and take advantage of everything Omaha and the surrounding cities have to offer. 7. EXPLORE OMAHA! One of the best ways to settle into Omaha is to connect with the local community. Attend community events and festivals to meet new people and learn about the city's culture and history. Join local clubs or organizations that align with your interests, whether it's sports, volunteering, or hobbies. By getting involved in the community, you'll quickly feel at home in Omaha. Omaha has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, theaters, and art galleries to explore. Visit the Joslyn Art Museum to admire its collection of European and American art, or catch a performance at the Omaha Community Playhouse, the largest community theater in the country. Explore the historic Old Market district, known for its cobblestone streets, boutiques, and restaurants. With so much to see and do, you'll never be bored in Omaha!  Omaha is home to a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, consistently ranked one of the best zoos in the world, or explore the miles of hiking and biking trails along the Missouri River. Take a stroll through Lauritzen Gardens, a botanical garden showcasing a variety of plants and flowers. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Omaha's outdoor spaces have something for everyone. Omaha is known for its diverse and thriving food scene, with plenty of restaurants to satisfy every palate. From local favorites like Nebraska beef to international cuisine, you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds in Omaha. Visit the Omaha Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods, or dine at one of the city's many farm-to-table restaurants. With so many delicious options to choose from, you'll never go hungry in Omaha! In conclusion, moving to Omaha is an exciting opportunity to start a new chapter in your life. With careful planning and the right mindset, you can make your move a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you're drawn to Omaha's vibrant cultural scene, its thriving food scene, or its beautiful outdoor spaces, there's something for everyone to love about living in Omaha. So, embrace the adventure and get ready to make Omaha your new home! LET’S GET MOVING   While moving is never easy, these steps offer an action plan to get you started on your new adventure. With a little preparation—and the right team of professionals to assist you—it is possible to have a positive relocation experience. We specialize in assisting home buyers and sellers with a seamless and “less-stress” relocation.   Along with our referral network of moving companies, contractors, cleaning services, interior designers, and other home service providers, we can help take the hassle and headache out of your upcoming move.   Give us a call or message us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation!     The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.   Sources: Moving.com - https://www.moving.com/tips/12-tips-for-moving-during-peak-moving-season/ Moving.com - https://www.moving.com/tips/moving-trends-predictions-for-2024/ Architectural Digest - https://www.architecturaldigest.com/reviews/moving/moving-trends-survey National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/infographics/the-benefits-of-homeownership Statista - https://www.statista.com/statistics/200223/median-apartment-rent-in-the-us-since-1980/ Psychology Today - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/is-where-you-belong/201607/why-youre-miserable-after-mo