Houses In Omaha Blog

Restaurants in Old Market | Upstream Brewing Co

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:25:23 -0500

A Unique Omaha Dining Experience at Upstream Brewing Co. Located in the iconic Old Market district of Omaha, Nebraska, this delicious and original restaurant is home to some of the finest ales and dining in the State's largest city, and is a must see stop for any serious foodie in the area. Locals and visitors alike find a unique and memorable dining experience at the Upstream Brewing Company. This delicious restaurant is surprisingly low price with most entrées coming in well under $15, but for the price you will be very impressed with the quality of food and service. And of course, you can't eat at the Upstream Brewing Company without enjoying one of their fine house ales or international beers. Upstream has some very tasty dishes for you to choose from, each offering a little something unique. Just about every customer will walk out of this restaurant with a different favorite dish to swear by. They have delicious appetizers and even better entrées; whether it is the beer batter fried fish and chips or the fiesta flavored black bean burger, you'll find something that will perfectly satiate your palate. A couple other fan favorites include the smoked Gouda soup (is that your stomach rumbling?) and any of the unique pan pizzas available. Upstream Brewing Co. is more than just a restaurant – it is an atmosphere representative of the entire Old Market. Whether you pay a visit for the good times, good food or the good beer, this place won't disappoint. It has been an Omaha favorite for years and is showing no signs of letting up anytime soon, probably because in addition to the aforementioned quality of food you'll also enjoy friendly service with each and every meal to make sure you don't have an excuse not to come back for more. Be sure to check out their happy hour promotions and special menu deals for extra savings if you're on any kind of budget!

Don't Miss the Nickelback Here and Now Concert on May 22 at the CenturyLink Center Omaha

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:41:42 -0500

Don't Miss the Nickelback Here and Now Concert on May 22 at the CenturyLink Center Omaha One of the biggest event this month in Omaha, Nebraska is without a doubt going to be the Nickelback Here and Now concert on the Tuesday before Memorial Day, which will be May 22nd. You'll want to go ahead and buy tickets as soon as possible if you haven't already, as they've already been on sale for near three months now. Fortunately, since the CenturyLink Center is an enormous venue you don't really have to worry about them being sold out, but it's always better safe than sorry - tickets are around $90 at the time of this writing, and are most conveniently available at TicketMaster online. Nickelback is one more in a long line of world-famous musicians and artists to have graced the grounds of the CenturyLink Center Omaha. Later this week Miranda Lambert will be performing in the CenturyLink Arena, and in October you can look forward to a performance from rock 'n roll Hall of Fame legend Red Hot Chili Peppers (Tickets are on sale now). The Canadian rock band Nickelback (50 million records sold) is known to have an excellent live show, so it's definitely something to look forward to for fans of the band and the rock genre alike. If you're making the trip to Omaha to see Nickelback, then you can enjoy a luxurious and convenient stay at the Four Diamond Hilton Omaha which is directly connected to the CenturyLink Center Omaha. Parents, want to bring your kids with you, but don't know what else to do in Omaha, Nebraska? Nearby the CenturyLink Center you'll find a number of family-friendly attractions such as the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Children's Museum and several different parks. Even if Nickelback isn't your idea of a concert worth seeing, there are always new artists coming to the CenturyLink Center Omaha, so it's worth heading over to their website (centurylinkcenteromaha.com) and having a look at the upcoming events and attractions...You may be surprised to see what's going on in Omaha, Nebraska right under your nose!

4 Outdoor Oases in Omaha, Nebraska Peace and Quiet

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:32:39 -0500

Omaha, Nebraska makes a great home for any nature enthusiast, as it's nearly impossible to find a home outside the influence of prairie life. But even in a city like Omaha where nature is constantly present, it can be easy to become immersed in the bustling city life – sometimes you need a deep breath of nature to clear your mind, and that's what this brief guide is all about. Check out these four beautiful outdoor parks that make a great place to spend an hour enjoying nature without the distractions of everyday life: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park – Host to a Lodge-style resort, this park has a ton of stuff to do whether you're staying the night or just enjoying the park for free during the day. You'll enjoy fishing, swimming, family activities, beautiful biking and pedestrian trails, and more throughout this lush Nebraskan Park. Fontanelle Forest Nature Center – This enormous forest reserve is over 2000 acres, and home to more than 26 miles of beautiful nature trails. The Fontanelle Forest/Neade Wood Nature Center is known for its excess of wildlife, and wide sampling of Nebraskan ecosystems, from prairies to wetlands to forestry. Gene Leahy Pedestrian Mall – This 10 acre outdoor park nestled into the heart of downtown Omaha treats visitors to a beautiful array of babbling waterfalls, well-kept gardens and lagoons, and a children's playground, too. There are occasional exhibits or events held at the park's sculpture garden and amphitheater respectively. Mount Vernon Gardens – These prim gardens contain perhaps the most beautiful flora in Omaha, and they're positioned for an absolutely breathtaking view of the surrounding Missouri river and riverfront. Styled after the gardens in George Washington's Mount Vernon estate, you'll enjoy a refreshing walk through colorful gardens and exquisite colonnades that mirror the feeling you get from the original. It's hard to imagine a more serene location in all of Omaha.

Elkhorn Omaha Real Estate – A Beautiful Mid-Range Subdivision

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:58:22 -0500

Are you and your family looking for a fair price on a new home in a healthy community? Elkhorn is home to 3 subdivisions in Omaha – Elkhorn Highland, Elkhorn Highland Ridge and Elkhorn View Estates – and offers a variety of housing options, so whether you're a first time home buyer or a family looking to expand there's definitely something for you here. In a setting of wide-open grassy fields, nature trails, and all around beautiful scenery, you'll find that the majority of houses in Elkhorn are in the $150 – $500 range. Property in Elkhorn is defined by big spacious floor plans on the interior and expansive yards with a healthy amount of greenery on the exterior. A Brief History of Elkhorn What is now one of the nicer real estate areas in Omaha, Nebraska began as its own city a long time ago in 1865, and was originally named after the Elk's Horn river of the Omaha tribe. Over the years it maintained itself as a nice quiet city compared to the bustling everyday life of Omaha, until in 2005 municipal disagreements between the two cities finally flared to action, and the city of Omaha attempted to annex its neighbor. Over the next couple years Elkhorn annexed several smaller communities of its own to attempt to bring its population up to the 10,000 person requirement to maintain a its municipal independence, but in 2007 the Supreme Court finally ruled in favor of Omaha, and Elkhorn's annexation became official on March 1, 2007. What Makes Elkhorn Special? Well, the entire subdivision houses ~2,000 homes, and one important factor is the diversity of house pricing. You can find both family-oriented, budget-friendly neighborhoods and luxurious, secluded custom-built estates. However, as is majorly the case throughout Omaha, what sets Elkhorn apart the most is the sheer volume of property you get for your dollar. Just browse through a few of the area's real estate listings to see what you're missing; there are some truly massive properties for sale at the lowest prices in over 10 years. Since 2007 Elkhorn has become a staple of Omaha realty. If a spacious property accompanied by peace and quiet is important to you, then Elkhorn and its subdivisions are definitely worth checking out.

What Type of Home Does Omaha, Nebraska Have to Offer You?

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:53:15 -0500

If you're looking for a rustic ranch home or a comfortable town house in a distinctive, Great Plains climate that you can only get in the midwest, then the housing market in Omaha, Nebraska is where you'll want to direct your attention. Being a rural state, many of the properties in this area are going to offer a really good deal on square feet per dollar, making it a great buy for a family or real-estate investor alike. Omaha is currently in the midst of a strong buyer's market (like much of the US), although being a big city in a rural state means that it's been more resilient than many, and is actually starting to show signs of recovery as unemployment rates plateue and begin falling again. However, right now there are an excess of listings on the market, which means more opportunities to find that sweetspot deal that you just can't resist. It's hard to believe you wouldn't find your ideal house somewhere in the huge number of properties for sale in Omaha. Whether you're looking to live in a neighborhood or secluded and outside the city, there is a home that fits your lifestyle preference. Have a family and kids? There's plenty for you in Omaha – Why not take a day trip through one of the many museums or parks? Why not pay a visit to The Wildlife Safari or The Henry Doorly Zoo? There aren't very many kids who wouldn't have a blast at the Strategic Air and Space Museum. Don't let the the state of the real estate market in Nebraska scare you away from this great city… Omaha itself is still alive and well, and the market is actually improving since a couple years ago. In fact, being the cultural and societal hub of Nebraska, Omaha has actually maintained a robust inner-economy in many ways. There are multiple malls throughout the city, lots of family owned restaurants and boutiques, as well as a host of entertainment options for any walk of life. All in all, when you move to Omaha, Nebraska you're virtually guaranteed to find a steal on your new property, and you'll have the opportunity to improve your lifestyle while you're at it

THE BEAUTIFUL BELLEVUE, NEBRASKA

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:53:52 -0500

Bellevue is located in the heart of the Great Plains, just eight miles south of Omaha, Nebraska. It’s a beautiful and tranquil community – it has that desirable small town feel, but the amenities of the “big city” are close by. Because the city is located on the Missouri River, it was originally developed as a fur trading post. Its location is one of the reasons it has grown and prospered over the years. Today, Bellevue offers many housing opportunities: from apartments to single family homes. Many discerning individuals, who work in Omaha, choose to live and raise their families in Bellevue. It’s a community that seems tailor-made for family living. In fact, the city website states that Bellevue offers “low unemployment, a low cost of living, low utility rates, low crime and a great educational system.” Bellevue does offer many amenities not found in some smaller communities. Bellevue Medical Center is a local hospital that is equipped to provide an array of medical services: cancer service, diagnostic testing, emergency services, maternity services, intensive care, and therapy and rehabilitation. The surgical suites offer endoscopy and colonoscopy, interventional radiology, vascular angiography, and infusion services. In addition, there’s a medical office building close by. Over 300 physicians work at the hospital and medical center. Bellevue has also set aside over 600 acres for parks and recreational purposes. There are literally dozens of playing fields available to the community. Almost every imaginable team sport is available to the youth of Bellevue. Bellevue Public School System is comprised of fifteen elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools. Services are also available to people at the other end of the spectrum. The Bellevue Senior Center offers a wide variety of services to the city’s senior population. Bellevue is also home to Offutt Air Force Base – “the home of the 55th Wing.” Every branch of the military is represented on the base – there are over 10,000 military personnel and federal employees assigned there. As might be imagined, the presence of this many people provides a continuous boost to the economy of the Bellevue area. Anyone moving to the Omaha area should make the short drive to Bellevue. You just may find your next home!

OMAHA SHOPPERS’ ALERT! THE WESTROADS MALL

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:57:33 -0500

Omaha is a city that caters to shoppers of all ages. There are numerous malls, strip malls and “stand-alone” stores in Omaha. The malls are plentiful and most of them are huge. Both indoor and outdoor malls are available. They typically contain both department stores and unique boutique shops. There’s always a generous sprinkling of restaurants so that the hungry shopper has a place to eat without leaving the mall. And for those who want to shop, dine and go to a movie, there’s usually a movie complex located within the facility. One mall that Omaha shoppers swear by is the Westroads Mall. It has 135 specialty stores like The Gap and American Eagle Outfitters. For “tweens” and teens, the mall offers stores like Abercrombie and Deb Shop. Several “one of a kind” stores like Far East Treasures, Just Dogs Gourmet, American Coin and Currency, Candyopolis and Gold Buyers of America are also represented. In addition, there are jewelry stores, shoe stores, children’s clothing stores, house wares, home stores, and stores that offer music, books, and other entertainment. The mall also hosts several major department stores like Von Maur, Younkers, J.C. Penny, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. No one need ever go hungry at Westroads Mall. The many restaurants are enticing and offer top-flight meals. Many of the names are familiar ones like P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory and T.G.I. Friday’s. Granite City Food and Brewery is also located in the mall and enjoys a sterling reputation among “foodies” in Omaha. And for those who want a relaxing time after a busy shopping day, RAVE Motion Pictures offers first-run movies. The mall is open seven days a week. There are always special promotions, discounts, and events happening at Westroads Mall. Those interested in keeping abreast of price cuts and other bargains can sign up for “The Club” and receive informative emails. The shopping experience is truly a pleasure at Westroads Mall. It’s almost always possible to find what you want at the price you are willing to pay!

Anti-discrimination in Employment Ordinance

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 07:56:20 -0500

New Omaha Anti-discrimination in Employment Ordinance takes effect March 28 On March 15, 2012, Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle signed the “Equal Omaha” ordinance. This is a much contested measure that prohibits employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Some religious groups see this as granting rights to a few while taking rights from others, and say they will continue to try to get it repealed or rescinded. After hours of public testimony from citizens on both sides of the issue, the Omaha City Council approved the ordinance in a vote of 4 to 3. Following the vote, Mayor Jim Suttle issued a statement saying "I applaud the City Council for their actions today and I look forward to signing this ordinance into law. Omaha is a city that welcomes diversity, embraces fresh ideas and is open for business to everyone." Craig Moody, with Voice Omaha, says this ordinance affects a very small number of businesses. It's the "symbolic nature" of the ordinance that matters – and shows the world that Omaha welcomes all people and families. The new ordinance goes into effect on March 28. References: WOWT.com KETV7 LBGTQNATION

FHA Home Buyers | Omaha Homes and Mortgage Alert

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:05:45 -0600

FHA Homebuyers – Choose Your Omaha Home and Start Your Loan by March 31. On Tuesday, March 6, the President announced a reduction in the FHA mortgage insurance premium for FHA borrowers who refinance. That's good news for Omaha homeowners who want to refinance, but would-be homeowners won't get the same break. In fact, on April 1, 2012, the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium for Omaha homebuyers is increasing. The upfront fee, which was 1% of the loan balance, will increase to 1.75%. But they assure us that buyers shouldn't worry – they'll still be allowed to add this upfront fee to their loan balance and pay for it (with interest) over the life of the loan. In addition, the annual fee will increase by 1/10% across the board. This, they say, is mandatory. The 1/10% increase will partially offset the Temporary Payroll Tax Cut. As you probably know, wage earners are now paying 4.2% of their wages to the Social Security fund, rather than 6.2%. Employers are still paying the full 6.2% on all wages paid. FHA is also exercising its statutory authority to add an additional .25% to the MIP for home loans of $625,500 or more. This additional fee will become effective on June 1, 2012. HUD says that this action will help support their mission of creating "strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all." Based on current projections through 2013, these fee increases will allow FHA to add more than $1 billion to their Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund. This will "Protect capital reserves and continue encouraging the return of private capital to the housing market." The bottom line for FHA homebuyers – Choose your home and get your FHA loan started by March 31. If you wait one more day, you just might have to choose a lower-priced home in order to qualify for your mortgage loan. If you want to become a Omaha homeowner and haven't yet found your home, contact me today. Let's get started so you can get your FHA loan in place before the fee increase.

Omaha Nebraska Offers Dining, Shopping and Entertainment For Every Taste

housesinomaha@gmail.com (Mark Ciochon) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:23:46 -0600

Moving To Omaha? Omaha, Nebraska offers dining, shopping, & entertainment for every taste When you're thinking of buying a home and moving to Omaha, Nebraska, you might wonder about shopping, dining, and entertainment. You'll be glad to know that no matter what your taste, Omaha has something to please. Whether you're young or not so young, hooked on history or interested in the latest trends, love exotic foods or stick strictly to the traditional, Omaha offers a shopping/entertainment district designed just for you. North Downtown Known as the NoDo Entertainment District, North Downtown offers indie rock bands, first run independent films and documentaries, and cutting-edge art. You can also shop for the latest urban trends, or visit TD Ameritrade Park, home of the NCAA Men's College World Series. Sip coffee or visit the wine lounge. Enjoy pizza or fine dining. NoDo is the place for the ultra-hip. Omaha's Old Market Entertainment District Omaha's Old Market Entertainment District stands in sharp contrast. Here you'll find an historic area that has been transformed into a lively shopping, dining and nightlife destination. As you stroll the cobblestone streets, wandering in an out of the many galleries and boutiques, you'll be enchanted and entertained by both street musicians and artists. Jazz clubs, pubs, quaint cafes, steakhouses, and innovative restaurants offer rest and refreshment after a day of shopping. Midtown Crossing Find the hottest labels in women's clothing, dine at one of six eclectic restaurants, or enjoy food and cocktails while catching a flick at the Marcus Cinedine Theater. In the summer, bring family and friends and enjoy Jazz on the Green every Thursday night. Village Pointe Village Pointe might deceive you. While it replicates a nostalgic Main Street shopping district, its shops offer the latest in electronics, clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. After a day of shopping, you can dine at one of eight restaurants or enjoy Omaha's total wine experience, Brix, with over 1200 wines from all over the world. For live entertainment, take in "Vibes at Village Pointe," or the "Funny Bone Comedy Club." Call me! When you're ready to find your new Omaha home, get in touch. I'll be happy to help you find the home of your dreams in the neighborhood that suits your tastes.