<?xml version="1.0"?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Morse Real Estate Blog</title><link>http://www.Morse-RE.com/blog</link><description>  real estate market news provided by Morse Real Estate</description><lastBuildDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2020 02:00:00 GMT</lastBuildDate><item><title>Agent Training at Morse Real Estate</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Training.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Morse Real Estate offers one-on-one, group, and virtual training to help agents reach the next level in their business. We strive to guide our agents so they can save time, increase their services to their clients and complete transactions smoothly.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Our broker and office manager share ideas on how to gain momentum in sales, boost creativity, and generate business regularly. Many existing agents take part in the training on a consistent basis to steadily grow their lead sources. Morse Real Estate hosts a private virtual group where idea sharing happens, lessons are learned, and advice is given. We offer an environment where agents are able to reach our support staff and broker easily when they have a question or concern.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Training2.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Morse Real Estate also has&nbsp;an on-boarding program for new agents. The&nbsp;program&nbsp;evolved over our years in business and helps new agents get started quickly and confidently. We also have a simple on-boarding training program for existing agents that aid&nbsp;them in their transition to selling with us. All agents that go through our training walk away with new pieces of information and tricks to get them servicing clients with ease.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Whether one of our agents needs hands-on training for social media marketing skills, virtual guidance for contract generation, step-by-step written instructions on how to manage a contact database, or a quick phone call to work out a problem, Morse Real Estate is here to provide the help they need.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Want to learn more about a career at Morse Real Estate? <strong><a href="https://mailchi.mp/6f1acb6e06e2/schedule">Contact us for your free confidential meeting.</a></strong></span></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Agent-Training-at-Morse-Real-Estate</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Agent-Training-at-Morse-Real-Estate</guid><pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2020 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Free Home Buying Guide</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/BuyerGuideBlog.png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Have you been considering buying a home in 2020 and want to know more about the process? Morse Real Estate has a FREE home buying guide with all the steps you need to take to make the move simple and easy. Request your copy now to get all the information&nbsp;for the 12 steps of buying a home:</span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>ITEMS COVERED IN THE FREE HOME BUYING GUIDE</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Doing Your Research</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Getting Your Finances in Order</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Hiring the Right Real Estate Agent</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Defining Your Dream Home and Neighborhood</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Choosing Your Lender</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Getting Pre-Approved</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Finding the Perfect Home</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Making the Right Offer</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Getting a Home Inspection</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Submitting Your Loan Application</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Making the Final Walk Through</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Closing the Deal</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/request-free-buyer-guide.png" style="width: 100%;" /></strong></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Get a jumpstart on home buying process and learn more about what it means to be a new homeowner in 2020 by requesting your very own digital copy of the Home Buyer Guide today.</span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Contact"><font face="tahoma, geneva, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;">Contact us to receive your free copy via email now!</span></font></a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Free-Home-Buying-Guide</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Free-Home-Buying-Guide</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2020 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Annual Food Drive 2019</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive.png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>

<p>Morse Real Estate agents from Nebraska and Iowa participated in the 2019 canned food drive for The Micah House. The Micah House is located in Council Bluffs and&nbsp; provides food, shelter and valuable services to the homeless population in the area.</p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive-6.png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>

<p>From November 4-15, agents and members of the Council Bluffs and Omaha community brought in non-perishable food items to the brokerage lobby. <a href="https://www.russmarket.com/"><strong>Russ&rsquo;s Market</strong></a> in Glenwood generously donated cases of canned vegetables to help our brokerage reach our goal. As the deadline for donations approached, members of staff and agents arranged and sorted items as well as weighed the items received.</p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive-4.png" style="width: 100%;" /><br />
On December 18, agents and their families loaded up vehicles and delivered the needed items to The Micah House. After carrying the items from cars and into the pantry, they received a guided tour of the facility and met some of the women who were staying there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive-2.png" style="width: 100%;" /><br />
This food drive was so impactful to our agents and their families and allowed us to feel more connected with our community. <strong>Our office donated 727 pounds of food for their residents during the holiday season.</strong></p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive-3(1).png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>

<p>Here are some statistics from The Micah House showing just how impressive their work is in our local area:</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><br />
<em>In&nbsp;2018, Micah House Served:&nbsp;<br />
970 Homeless Individuals<br />
304 Were&nbsp;Children and Families<br />
24,148 Nights of Shelter were Provided<br />
26,985 Nutritious Meals were Served<br />
54% Were Children &nbsp;(521 Children)<br />
59% Of Clients Served were from Nebraska<br />
35% Of Clients Served were from Iowa</em></p>

<p><br />
If you would like to find out how you can help The Micah House and their mission, please<strong> <a href="http://www.themicahhouse.org/">visit their website</a></strong> for more information.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse-Real-Estate-Food-Drive-5(1).png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Annual-Food-Drive-2019</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Annual-Food-Drive-2019</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Nov 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>2019 County and State Fairs</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/county-fairs.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">As a Midwesterner, our hearts can be easily warmed by the smell of smoked turkey legs, freshly fried corn dogs, and anything else that is served on a stick! July and August are always filled to the brim with local&nbsp;county and state fairs that provide guests with tasty treats, thrilling concerts, deadly demolition derbies, exciting&nbsp;rodeo riding, and smoke-filled tractor pulls. Here is a list of 12 upcoming county and state fairs in Iowa and Nebraska that just cannot be beat and must not be missed in 2019! If we skipped one, please comment below!</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:16pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>2019 County and State Fairs</strong></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Mills County Fair &ndash; July 11 &ndash; 16 -&nbsp; Malvern, Iowa - 61317 315th St, Malvern, IA 51551</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.millscountyfair.com/">http://www.millscountyfair.com/</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/millscounty.fair">https://www.facebook.com/millscounty.fair</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="http://www.millscountyfair.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2019-FINAL-schedule-as-of-4-2-19.pdf">http://www.millscountyfair.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2019-FINAL-schedule-as-of-4-2-19.pdf</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Douglas County Fair &ndash; July 11 - 14 - Multiple Locations &ndash; Free Parking and Shuttle at METRO COMMUNITY COLLEGE, ELKHORN (829 N. 2014th St. Elkhorn, NE 68022) to both Village Pointe (17305 Davenport - Omaha, NE 68118) AND Chance Ridge( 829 N. 2014th St. Elkhorn, NE 68022 (506 Skyline Rd., Elkhorn, NE 68022)</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.douglascountyfair.org">https://www.douglascountyfair.org</a><br />
<strong>Facebook: </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCoFair/">https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCoFair/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="https://www.douglascountyfair.org/copy-of-events-1">https://www.douglascountyfair.org/copy-of-events-1</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Pottawattamie County Fair - July 18 &ndash; 21&nbsp; &ndash; Avoca, Iowa &ndash; 307 W Lincoln St, Avoca, IA 51521</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://pottawattamiecountyfair.org">http://pottawattamiecountyfair.org</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EastPottawattamieCountyFair/">https://www.facebook.com/EastPottawattamieCountyFair/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="http://pottawattamiecountyfair.org">http://pottawattamiecountyfair.org</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Harrison County Fair &ndash; July 23-27 - Missouri Valley, Iowa - 1200 W Huron St, Missouri Valley, IA 51555</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.harrisoncofair.com">https://www.harrisoncofair.com&nbsp;</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/harrisoncountyiowafair/">https://www.facebook.com/harrisoncountyiowafair/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="https://www.harrisoncofair.com/schedule.html">https://www.harrisoncofair.com/schedule.html</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>West Fair &ndash; July 25 &ndash; 28 - Council Bluffs, Iowa - 22984 US-6, Council Bluffs, IA 51503</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.westfairevents.com/">http://www.westfairevents.com/</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/westfairia/">https://www.facebook.com/westfairia/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule: </strong><a href="http://www.westfairevents.com/">http://www.westfairevents.com/</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Otoe County Fair &ndash; July 25 &ndash; 28 &ndash; Syracuse, Nebraska - 1st St &amp; Plum St, Syracuse, NE 68446</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.otoecountyfair.com/">http://www.otoecountyfair.com/</a><br />
<strong>Facebook: </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Otoe-County-Fair-113197402717/">https://www.facebook.com/Otoe-County-Fair-113197402717/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="http://www.otoecountyfair.com/entertainment/">http://www.otoecountyfair.com/entertainment/</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Saunders County Fair &ndash; July 28 &ndash; August 4 &ndash; Wahoo, Nebraska - 635 E 1st Street, Wahoo, NE 68066</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.saunderscountyfair.com">https://www.saunderscountyfair.com&nbsp;</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Saunders-County-Fair-459966754188968/">https://www.facebook.com/Saunders-County-Fair-459966754188968/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule: </strong><a href="https://www.saunderscountyfair.com/copy-of-schedule">https://www.saunderscountyfair.com/copy-of-schedule</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Sarpy County Fair &ndash; July 31 - August 4 - Springfield, Nebraska - 100 Main St, Springfield, NE 68059</strong><br />
<strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.sarpyfair.com/">http://www.sarpyfair.com/&nbsp;&nbsp;</a><br />
<strong>Facebook: </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/SarpyCountyFairRodeo">https://www.facebook.com/pg/SarpyCountyFairRodeo</a><br />
<strong>Schedule: </strong><a href="http://www.sarpyfair.com/">http://www.sarpyfair.com/</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Lancaster County Super Fair &ndash; August 1 &ndash; August 10 &ndash; Lincoln, NE - 4100 N. 84th Street, Lincoln NE 68507</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://superfair.org/super-fair-home/">https://superfair.org/super-fair-home/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SuperFairLNK/">https://www.facebook.com/SuperFairLNK/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="https://superfair.org/see-entertainment/theme-days">https://superfair.org/see-entertainment/theme-days</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Cass County Fair &ndash; August 6 &ndash; 10th &ndash; Weeping Water, Nebraska - 8420 144th Street, Weeping Water, NE 68463</strong><br />
<strong>Website: </strong><a href="https://www.cassfair.com/">https://www.cassfair.com/&nbsp;</a><br />
<strong>Facebook: </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Cass-County-Nebraska-Fairgrounds-447586029109747/">https://www.facebook.com/Cass-County-Nebraska-Fairgrounds-447586029109747/</a><br />
<strong>Schedule: </strong><a href="https://www.cassfair.com/">https://www.cassfair.com/</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Iowa State Fair &ndash; August 8 &ndash; 18 &ndash; Des Moines, Iowa - 3000 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50317</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.iowastatefair.org">https://www.iowastatefair.org</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/iowastatefair">https://www.facebook.com/iowastatefair</a><br />
<strong>Iowa State Fair Map:</strong> <a href="https://www.iowastatefair.org/upl/downloads/library/fairgrounds-map.pdf">https://www.iowastatefair.org/upl/downloads/library/fairgrounds-map.pdf</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="https://www.iowastatefair.org/entertainment/fair-schedule/">https://www.iowastatefair.org/entertainment/fair-schedule/</a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Nebraska State &ndash; August 23 &ndash; September 2 &ndash; Grand Island, NE - 700 E Stolley Park Road, Grand Island, NE, 68801</strong><br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.statefair.org/">https://www.statefair.org/</a><br />
<strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaStateFair">https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaStateFair&nbsp;</a><br />
<strong>Schedule:</strong> <a href="https://www.statefair.org/events">https://www.statefair.org/events</a></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Have a safe and fun-filled fair season!</span></strong></em></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/2019-County-and-State-Fairs</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/2019-County-and-State-Fairs</guid><pubDate>Tue, 25 Jun 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Omaha Area Fireworks Shows</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fireworks(1).png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><u><strong><a href="https://www.cityofomaha.org/">Omaha</a></strong></u> metro residents love&nbsp;the smell of black powder and the sparkle of lights that fireworks bring. Families gather together to grill, relax, and celebrate our country&rsquo;s freedoms while lighting off fireworks. Another way to celebrate</span><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;">&nbsp;Independence Day 2019&nbsp;in Omaha, </span><strong style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.papillion.org/">Papillion</a></strong><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;">, </span><strong style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;"><a href="https://bellevuewa.gov/">Bellevue</a></strong><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;">, </span><strong style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.councilbluffs-ia.gov/">Council Bluffs</a></strong><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;">, and the surrounding areas is to&nbsp;watch the large, local fireworks shows. Morse Real Estate has put together a list of local Omaha metro fireworks displays to make it easy to&nbsp;catch them all.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fire4.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>The City of Omaha Celebrates America Free Concert &amp; Fireworks Show with Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul w/ Chris Isaak</strong><br />
<strong>Dates: </strong>June 28, 2019<br />
<strong>Location: </strong>Memorial Park, 6005 Underwood Ave., Omaha, NE 68132<br />
<strong>Times: </strong>6:00 PM to 10:15 PM<br />
<strong>Admission:</strong> Free<br />
<strong>More Info: </strong>Get ready to rock the park! Little Steven (Steven Van Zandt) will headline, with co-headliner Chris Isaak also performing. Local cover band The Firm will open the show. Stick around for the fantastic fireworks finale set for 10pm.&nbsp;The concert was originally canceled, but it was brought back with the help of an anonymous donor.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fire5.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>College Home Run Derby &amp; Fireworks</strong><br />
<strong>Dates: </strong>June 29, 2019<br />
<strong>Location:</strong> 1200 Mike Fahey&nbsp;St., Omaha, NE 68102<br />
<strong>Times: </strong>Starting: 7:00 PM<br />
<strong>Website:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.collegehomerunderby.com/About_Event"><strong>https://www.collegehomerunderby.com/About_Event</strong></a><br />
<strong>Admission: </strong>$10+<br />
<strong>More Info:</strong> Watch college baseball&#39;s premier power hitters show off their skills during the Home Run Derby, live on ESPN. Stay for the fireworks! Visit website for all the details.</span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fire3.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Lake Manawa Fireworks</strong><br />
<strong>Dates:</strong> June 29, 2019<br />
<strong>Location: </strong>1100 S Shore Dr., Council Bluffs, IA 51501<br />
<strong>Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.friendsoflakemanawa.org/lake-manawa-fireworks/lake-manawa-fireworks-support">https://www.friendsoflakemanawa.org/lake-manawa-fireworks/lake-manawa-fireworks-support&nbsp;</a></strong><br />
<strong>Times:</strong> 9pm<br />
<strong>Admission:</strong> Free<br />
<strong>More Info: </strong>Watch Lake Manawa&#39;s largest fireworks display yet over the lake at dusk.</span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fire2.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Omaha Storm Chasers Game with Fireworks</strong><br />
<strong>Dates: </strong>July 4, 2019<br />
<strong>Location: </strong>12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, NE 68046<br />
<strong>Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/Team.asp?SponsorID=11796#.XQk__ohKiUk">https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/Team.asp?SponsorID=11796#.XQk__ohKiUk</a></strong><br />
<strong>Times:</strong> Starting: 7:05 PM<br />
<strong>Admission: </strong>$9-$21/Free for Kids 2 &amp; Under<br />
<strong>More Info:</strong> Bring the family for a night of fun at the ballpark as the Omaha Storm Chasers take on the Nashville Sounds. The night will end with a spectacular Independence Day fireworks show to USA-themed music!</span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fire1.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Ralston&#39;s 59th Annual Independence Day Celebration with Fireworks</strong><br />
<strong>Dates: </strong>July 4, 2019<br />
<strong>Location: </strong>Downtown Ralston<br />
<strong>Website: <a href="https://ralstonareachamber.org/events/details/2019-independence-day-54">https://ralstonareachamber.org/events/details/2019-independence-day-54</a></strong><br />
<strong>Times: </strong>From: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM<br />
<strong>Admission: </strong>Free<br />
<strong>More Info: </strong>Bring the family for a slice of Americana complete with music, food, and more. Check out Nebraska&#39;s largest parade on Wednesday, along with a fireworks spectacular to cap off the night.</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>All of our agents wish you a safe and happy fourth of July!</strong></span></span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Omaha-Area-Fireworks-Shows</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Omaha-Area-Fireworks-Shows</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Jun 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Iowa Homestead Tax Credit</title><description><![CDATA[<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/homestead-exemption-mre.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Iowa Homestead Tax Credit filing deadline is fast approaching!</span></strong></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">New homeowners in Iowa are encouraged at the closing table to file for the Iowa Homestead Tax Credit as soon as possible. This program was originally adopted by the state to encourage home ownership through property tax relief. It also protects the homeowner from certain debts being attached to their property as a lien. Homeowners are eligible for the exemption if they own and occupy the property as their primary residence and if they declare residency in Iowa for income tax purposes. They must also occupy the property for a minimum of 6 months annually. Owners in the military or nursing homes who do not occupy the home are also eligible.&nbsp;</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">The current credit is equal to the actual tax levy on the first $4,850 of actual value which translates to an average of $50-$200 savings per year on property taxes.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Homeowners that would like to file for this exemption may fill out <strong><a href="https://tax.iowa.gov/sites/files/idr/forms1/54028%20revised%202018.pdf">this form</a></strong> and submit it to the county prior to July 1 and only have to file once during a lifetime of ownership as long as it continues to qualify or the property is sold or transferred. People signing up will also be required to certify that a smoke detector has been, or will be installed in the home.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Pottawattamie county homeowners may submit the forms:</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Stopping by in person:<span style="white-space:pre"> </span> <span style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Pottawattamie County Assessor</span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">227 S 6th St. Ste 257</span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Council Bluffs, IA</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Mailing it in:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Pottawattamie County Assessor</span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">PO Box 1076</span></div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Council Bluffs, IA 51502</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">E-mailing it to:</span></div>

<div><a href="mailto:Assessor@pottco.org"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Assessor@pottco.org</span></a></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><a href="https://tax.iowa.gov/sites/files/idr/forms1/54028%20revised%202018.pdf"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/homestead-exemption-download.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></a></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">If you have questions about filing or would like to speak to one of our expert agents, <strong><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/contact">send us a message</a></strong>!&nbsp;</span></div>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Iowa-Homestead-Tax-Credit</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Iowa-Homestead-Tax-Credit</guid><pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Local Father's Day Events</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/fathers-day-events.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Father&rsquo;s Day is a special time to celebrate the dads in your life that have made a difference and it falls on Sunday, June 16th this year. Here are some ways to celebrate locally in the Council Bluffs and Omaha area this week.</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/farmers_market.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></span></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Council Bluffs Farmer&rsquo;s Market</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Start the fun off early with the Council Bluffs Farmer&rsquo;s Market on Wednesday, June 13th from 4:30pm-7:30pm. They are set-up at Bayliss Park and will have a giveaway for dads and extra vendors to help you find the perfect gift. Plus, they always have live music, kid&rsquo;s activities and some great vendors. Enjoy the night at the park!</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/baseball.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></span></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">College World Series Fan Fest</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Starting June 14th, the official Fan Fest begins and hosts giveaways, live music, interactive games and much more! Head to Lot C and Mike Fahey Street in Omaha for the fun. Visit their website for the schedule: <strong><a href="https://www.ncaa.com/championships/baseball/d1/fan-fest">https://www.ncaa.com/championships/baseball/d1/fan-fest</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/cars(1).png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">First Annual SAC Museum Car Show</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Take dad to this indoor car show that lasts two days! Don&rsquo;t miss the opening ceremony on Saturday, June 15th at noon that begins with a parachute jump performance.&nbsp;He&nbsp;could even register his car as part of the exclusive show! Visit the website for tickets and information: <strong><a href="https://sacmuseum.org/event/car-show/">https://sacmuseum.org/event/car-show/</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/pool.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Fun-Plex</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Give your favorite dad the gift of fun in the sun as fathers will get free admission to Fun-Plex located in Omaha on Sunday, June 16th! You can check out their new attraction called Rockin&rsquo; Rapids and enjoy the fun from noon to 8PM. Visit their site for more information: <strong><a href="https://fun-plex.com/">https://fun-plex.com/</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/jump.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></span></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Sky Zone Omaha</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Every dad will jump for joy on Father&rsquo;s Day at Sky Zone Omaha when they get in free! Jump with them from noon to 6PM. Visit their site the more details: <strong><a href="https://www.skyzone.com/omaha">https://www.skyzone.com/omaha</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/bowl.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></span></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">The Mark</span></span></strong></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Roll over to The Mark located in Elkhorn for a&nbsp;good ol&rsquo; fashioned bowling competition! Dad&rsquo;s get to bowl for free on Sunday, June 17th and there are ribeye and prime rib specials to take advantage of. If you haven&rsquo;t been to The Mark &ndash; go! It is a great place to take the family. Visit their site for more information and discounts: <strong><a href="https://markomaha.com/">https://markomaha.com/</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/zoo.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Lincoln Children&rsquo;s Zoo</strong></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Take your dad to the Lincoln Children&rsquo;s Zoo on June 16th where he can get in free and enjoy watching the animals and checking out their new expansion project that opened May 10th. Visit their site for details: <strong><a href="https://www.lincolnzoo.org/events/">https://www.lincolnzoo.org/events/</a></strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">We wish you a very happy Father&#39;s Day!</span></span></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Local-Fathers-Day-Events</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Local-Fathers-Day-Events</guid><pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Morse Real Estate's New Office</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Office.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Morse Real Estate is excited to announce the opening of a new office in central <a href="https://www.councilbluffs-ia.gov/">Council Bluffs</a>, Iowa. This facility is located on the busy corner of West Broadway and S. 7th Street, just one&nbsp;block northwest from <a href="https://www.councilbluffs-ia.gov/2177/Bayliss-Park">Bayliss Park</a>.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Map.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Morse Real Estate was established in 2010 by Council Bluffs native, Mike Morse. After a successful 20-year career in residential and commercial real estate, Mike launched the brokerage. Over the past 9 years, it has continued to grow as a family-owned and operated virtual brokerage.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Lobby.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">&ldquo;Our agents have been working at our virtual brokerage for years and have helped thousands of people make a move. They have either worked from home or a remote office and have met clients wherever was convenient for the client.&rdquo; Mike said.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Lobby2.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">After years of successfully operating the virtual brokerage, the number of agents began to grow. Getting a physical office was the next step to providing a larger community presence and increasing resources for Morse Real Estate agents.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_3.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">&ldquo;We were on the lookout for a central location that would be easy for our busy clients and active agents. We found the perfect place and received keys in the beginning of February. After gaining access, our family pulled together to plan out the office and take on the challenge of the remodel. It was worth the effort.&rdquo; Mike said.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">The work space features modern technology in a comfortable setting to allow agents to focus all day or simply stop by to write contracts. The design of the space was inspired by a 3D rendering that his daughter and office manager, Christy Rhoades, drafted. The space is fresh, airy, and contemporary.</span></p>

<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_4.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">&ldquo;Our REALTORs are so mobile that most work from their cars, home offices or coffee shops. However, in this fast-paced market, agents really have to manage everything even quicker and on the go. This new office allows them to do that seamlessly.&rdquo; Mike said. &ldquo;Since opening, I have had clients come for consultations and they comment about how clean and beautiful the space is. We couldn&rsquo;t be more excited for the future of our service to the local community.&rdquo;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Morse Real Estate hosted an agent open house on April 4. The agents were able to walk through the space and see it and celebrate with Mike and his family.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Agent1.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /><br />
<span style="font-size:8pt;">(From left to right: Mike R. Morse, Shannon Snipes, Christy Rhoades, Mike Kent, Abby Tietsort, Mike Morse, Deb Peraza)</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Agent2.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /><span style="font-size:8pt;">(Capre Kennett)</span></span><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse_Real_Estate_Agent3.png" style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif; width: 100%; height: 100%;" /><br />
<span style="font-size:8pt;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">(Eric Mace)</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;">During the remodel, Nebraska and Iowa experienced some of the worst flooding witnessed in recent history. Since opening, Morse Real Estate has seen an increase in the need for professional advice and guidance in the local real estate market.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">&ldquo;With all of the flooding recently, our agents have received so many calls from families that have had to move out of places like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Junction,_Iowa">Pacific Junction</a>, <a href="http://cityofglenwood.org/">Glenwood</a>, and <a href="http://www.city-data.com/city/Bartlett-Iowa.html">Bartlett</a>. It&rsquo;s heartbreaking. As agents, we want to help them find somewhere to live and do it quickly. I have never seen so many people displaced locally. Iowa and Nebraska needs to continue pulling together and help each other out.&rdquo;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Morse%20Real%20Estate.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">With the opening of the new office in Council Bluffs, Morse Real Estate and its agents will continue to service residential and commercial real estate clients in the <a href="https://www.cityofomaha.org/">Omaha</a>, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa metro area. Consultation appointments can be made by calling the office at 712-435-1900 or by contacting one of the expert agents directly at <strong><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agents">www.morse-re.com/agents</a></strong>.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/12.png" style="width: 100%; height: 100%;" />​</span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Morse-Real-Estates-New-Office</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Morse-Real-Estates-New-Office</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 May 2019 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Fall Home Maintenance Checklist</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/FallMaintenanceChecklist.png" style="width: 100%" /></p>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">Fall is here! With days officially dropping to jacket-weather temperatures, it is time to remember all of the items needed to make your home ready for winter. Let&rsquo;s make it easy and get ahead of Jack Frost with this fall home maintenance checklist.</span></span></div>

<div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;"><strong>Exterior Items</strong></span></span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Winterize your grill by giving it one final, deep clean and covering burners and other metal parts with cooking oil to prevent rust. Also, shut off your gas and put a protective cover over the whole unit.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Seal up exterior cracks and gaps in siding, windows or foundation with caulking or weather stripping.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Take advantage of the low humidity weather and paint your home or stain and seal your deck.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Clean your gutters and make sure they are secure.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Bring any glue, liquid weed killer, paints, stains, finishes and spray cans inside so they do not freeze.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Store outdoor decorations and furniture or at least cover it up to extend the life.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Hook up seasonal batteries for boats or small vehicles to a battery maintainer.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Fix any cracks in the driveway to keep moisture from getting in to freeze, expand and make them bigger.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Aerate, fertilize and reseed your yard.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Have your sprinkler system drained and blown out.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Winterize your lawn mower by removing all fuel or filling up the tank and adding fuel conditioner and running it for a couple minutes so it can circulate.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Empty your flower pots and planters. Bring any clay or ceramic containers inside.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Drain all garden hoses and sprinklers and store. Also turn off water to all exterior hose bibs and drain pipes.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Trim back trees and bushes and remove dead branches from to keep them from falling once weighted with heavy snow.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Rake your leaves and shred them for compost, mulch or on top of flower beds as a winter blanket for your garden.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Divide or move perennials and remove any dead annuals.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Mulch perennials after the first hard freeze and do not cover the center point (crown) to avoid rotting.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Clean garden tools before storing.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>If you have been feeding birds from your yard, be sure to stock up on bird food to continue feeding them this winter.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Mark the perimeter of your driveway and sidewalk by pounding in driveway markers for easier snow removal.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Get your snowblower ready for service.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Make sure you have a snow shovel that is in good shape.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Grab a bag of pet and plant safe ice melt from the store.</span></span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;"><strong>Interior Items</strong></span></span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Change the direction your ceiling fans spin so they can circulate the warm air down toward the floor.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Wrap any water pipes that run along exterior walls with heating tape or insulation to save energy and prevent freezing.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Replace the furnace filter or consider having your HVAC system maintained by a professional.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Remove any window AC units or cover the entire exterior to keep cold air out.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Clean out your dryer vents and remove lint.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check attic insulation is at the proper level and doesn&rsquo;t cover vents in the eaves to prevent winter ice dams on the roof.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check bird and rodent screens for attic vents to prevent any unwanted guests.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Schedule a chimney cleaning.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Have your home tested for radon since windows are shut more in the fall and winter.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Change the batteries in your carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors.</span></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:lucida sans unicode,lucida grande,sans-serif;">&bull;<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher and replace if needed.</span></span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Fall-Home-Maintenance-Checklist</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Fall-Home-Maintenance-Checklist</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2018 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Readying Your Home For Sale</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Readying-Your-Home-For-Sale.png" style="width: 100%; " /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">Buyers want to find out everything there is about your home when purchasing it. Since it is a major investment, homebuyers want to inspect your property in it&rsquo;s entirety while looking for any signs of damage. How can you prepare your home for the public eye? Here&rsquo;s some great tips:</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Thoroughly Clean the Home</strong><br />
Before allowing anyone into your home, you should have it thoroughly cleaned. This means dusting, vacuuming and taking out the trash. It may also mean taking steps to remove smoke or other odors from the air. If walls or other surfaces have mold on them, be sure to clean them prior to an open house. In addition to increasing the odds that someone makes an offer, taking the time to eliminate mold will go a long way toward reducing the risk of potential buyers getting sick.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Take Time to Stage the Home</strong><br />
Prospective buyers want to get an idea as to how a given space within a home can be used. For instance, they may want to see if there&#39;s enough room for their bed in the master bedroom or if there&#39;s enough room for the couch in the living room. If you have a finished attic or basement, be sure to showcase it as a space a buyer can make good use of.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Remove Potentially Offensive Items</strong><br />
When you show a house, you want to present a neutral look to potential buyers. This may mean getting rid of posters that make political or religious references. You may also want to hide items with sports logos, especially if you live in an area where rivalries are huge. By doing so, you will allow those who visit your home to imagine themselves living in the space without having anything to cloud their vision.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Make Necessary Repairs Before an Open House</strong><br />
If you&#39;re planning on making repairs prior to selling the home, do them before allowing anyone to see the space. For instance, you may want to repair the leaking water heater or replace shingles that have fallen off the roof as soon as possible. You should also make sure the garage door opens and closes properly and that all of the lights work.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">If you want to sell your home in a timely manner, you must know how to prepare the space for public viewing. Making repairs, removing offensive items and properly staging the property may all increase the odds of selling your home.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">By taking these steps before a showing, you may very well increase a buyer&rsquo;s confidence that the home is worth putting an offer on.</span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Readying-Your-Home-For-Sale</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Readying-Your-Home-For-Sale</guid><pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2018 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>REALTOR Ring Day 2017</title><description><![CDATA[<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="306" id="vp1urF0t" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/embed.animoto.com/play.html?w=swf/production/vp1&amp;e=1512420185&amp;f=urF0tB404Xwjbm7AmK0PIw&amp;d=0&amp;m=p&amp;r=360p+480p+720p&amp;volume=50&amp;start_res=720p&amp;i=m&amp;asset_domain=s3-p.animoto.com&amp;animoto_domain=animoto.com&amp;options=loop" title="Video Player" width="544"></iframe></p>

<p>This holiday season,&nbsp;over 100 REALTOR&reg; associations will be supporting the Salvation Army on Friday, December 1.&nbsp;This idea came from a REALTOR&reg; member in Fargo, N.D., who wanted to give real estate professionals an opportunity to support a cause familiar to them - housing. The Salvation Army was the perfect fit because it offers so many housing-related programs. This is the Iowa Association of Realtor&rsquo;s sixth year participating in this great event joining over 26 other states ringing the bell for the Salvation Army.</p>

<p>Last year, more than 300 Iowa REALTORS&reg; representing all 17 local boards participated in this event and raised more than $30,000. A few members of our team came out to volunteer. We had a lot of fun joking, singing and ringing!</p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/REALTOR-Ring-Day-2017</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/REALTOR-Ring-Day-2017</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Dec 2017 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Difference An Hour Makes</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/20161104-ENG-STM-1046x1354.jpg" style="width: 100%; float: left;" /><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="color:#800000;"><span style="font-size:20pt;"><strong>Every Hour in the US Housing Market:&nbsp;</strong></span></span></span></p>

<ul>
	<li><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:16pt;"><strong>633 Homes Sell</strong></span></span></li>
	<li><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:16pt;"><strong>253 Homes Regain Positive Equity</strong></span></span></li>
	<li><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:16pt;"><strong>Median Home Values Go Up $1.43</strong></span></span></li>
</ul>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/The-Difference-An-Hour-Makes</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/The-Difference-An-Hour-Makes</guid><pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Your Home Just Got More Valuable</title><description><![CDATA[<p><br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/home-value2.jpg" style="width: 100%" /></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">The National Association of Realtors just released a report covering the latest data on our national housing market. Many of the figures were staggering and surprising. The following charts summarize the biggest findings from the report.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-10-1024x768 (1).jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href, '', 'resizable=no,status=no,location=no,toolbar=no,menubar=no,fullscreen=yes,scrollbars=no,dependent=no'); return false;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/October2016-10-1024x768(2).jpg" style="width: 100%" /></a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-10-1024x768%20(1).jpg" style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:9pt;">Click to enlarge</span></a></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Housing Supply Year-Over-Year: Last 12 Months: </strong>One of the more surprising data produced from National Association of Realtors was the giant leap in housing shortage from July to August. It showed that nationally we are experiencing an incredible 10% decrease in homes on the market. It could be reasoned that a lot of buyers scooped up a ton of inventory during the summer leaving August high and dry. This could also mean buyers are struggling to find their next dream home.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-57-1024x768.png" onclick="window.open(this.href, '', 'resizable=no,status=no,location=no,toolbar=no,menubar=no,fullscreen=yes,scrollbars=no,dependent=no'); return false;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/October2016-57-1024x768.png" style="width: 100%" /></a></strong></span><br />
<a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-57-1024x768.png"><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Click to enlarge</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Seller Traffic By State: </strong>To breakdown the data and apply it to each state we can see just how many homes are listed for sale by state. Alaska, New Mexico, Maine and four other states are experiencing Very Strong seller traffic numbers which means there are more homes to choose from. However, Iowa and Nebraska and most of the nation do not share the same fate. Seller traffic is weak meaning that these housing markets are struggling and need more homes listed for sale.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-50-1024x768.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href, '', 'resizable=no,status=no,location=no,toolbar=no,menubar=no,fullscreen=yes,scrollbars=no,dependent=no'); return false;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/October2016-09-1024x768.jpg" style="width: 100%" /></a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/October2016-50-1024x768.jpg"><span style="font-family: tahoma, geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Click to enlarge</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Existing Home Prices Year-Over-Year by Region: </strong>Nationally sellers are receiving 5.1% more for their homes this year versus last year. However, sellers in the Midwest are receiving 5.5% more on average.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Let&rsquo;s break that down for our local real estate market:</strong></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#B22222;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>Average home sold in Council Bluffs, Iowa since September 1: $145,615</strong></span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><strong>On average, sellers are receiving<span style="font-size:14pt;"> $8,008</span> more this year versus last year<br />
____________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
Average home sold in Omaha, Nebraska since September 1: $199,374<br />
<br />
On average, sellers are receiving&nbsp;<span style="font-size:14pt;">$10,965</span> more this year versus last year</strong></span></span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;">By the way, homes are selling for more and<em> much faster</em> as opposed to last year, with many having multiple offers in less than 48 hours.</span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Your-Home-Just-Got-More-Valuable</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Your-Home-Just-Got-More-Valuable</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How Many Homes Sold Last Week?</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Sold7Daysb.png" style="width: 100%" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Kids are back in school but it hasn&rsquo;t slowed the housing market down. Just over the last weekend, our brokerage had a listing that received over 20 written offers on it!&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Here are the number of homes that have sold in our local markets in the last week:</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="color:#000080;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Homes that sold in the Omaha area: 326 Homes<br />
Average home price: $208,572<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Homes that sold in the Council Bluffs area: 29 Homes<br />
Average home price: $161,066</strong></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">To find out more about what your home is worth,<strong> <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Agents">contact one of our experienced agents today</a>!</strong></span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-Last-Week</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-Last-Week</guid><pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Listings SOLD in 10 days or less</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/HomeSoldInLessThan10Days.png" style="width: 100%" /></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">With a knowledgeable agent, attention to detail and the right market, homes can be listed for sale and purchased within a few hours. Today&#39;s market is full of fast sales and happy buyers and sellers. See the 4 listings below that have sold in less than 2 weeks!</span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/3.png" style="width: 300px; height: 200px;" /><br />
<span style="font-size:9pt;"><strong><a href="http://idx.morse-re.com/idx/details/listing/a362/16-1568/1034-E-WASHINGTON-Avenue" target="_blank">1034 E Washington Avenue, Council Bluffs, IA 51503</a></strong></span><br />
This home was listed by<strong> </strong><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/mike-morse"><strong>Mike Morse</strong></a> after it had been on the market for 122 days with another agency. It is a 4 bedroom, 1 bathroom home with 1,561 finished square feet. In less than 24 hours with Mike,&nbsp;it was sold!</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/2.png" style="width: 300px; height: 200px; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" /><br />
<strong><span style="font-size:9pt;"><a href="http://idx.morse-re.com/idx/details/listing/a362/16-1585/550-CORONADO-Circle" target="_blank">550 Coronado Circle, Carter Lake, IA 51510</a></span></strong><br />
This beautiful ranch is seated right on the water and boasts 2,971 finished square feet with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/abby-tietsort"><strong>Abby Tietsort</strong></a> got this incredible home&nbsp;listed and sold in only 6 short days!</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/4.png" style="width: 300px; height: 200px; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" /><br />
<span style="font-size:9pt;"><strong><a href="http://idx.morse-re.com/idx/details/listing/a362/16-1281/9-WINDSOR-Avenue" target="_blank">9 Windsor Avenue, Council Bluffs, IA 51503</a></strong><br />
<span style="font-size:12pt;">Located in a desirable, east-end neighborhood, this split-level is beautiful on the inside with 4 bedrooms and 1.75 bathrooms and a large, fenced backyard. <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Christy-Rhoades"><strong>Christy Rhoades</strong></a> found a buyer for this home before it was even listed for sale!</span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:9pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/1.png" style="width: 300px; height: 200px; align: center" /><br />
<span style="font-size:9pt;"><strong><a href="http://idx.morse-re.com/idx/details/listing/a362/16-1492/2119-N-120TH-Avenue" target="_blank">2119 N 120th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68164</a></strong><br />
<span style="font-size:12pt;">This bank-owned townhouse in Omaha had multiple offers and was listed by <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/mike-morse"><strong>Mike Morse</strong></a> and sold within 10 days! It features 1,807 finished square feet and has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.</span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><em>Speak to one of our <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agents">agents</a> today to find out how&nbsp;to prepare your home for a fast sale!</em></span></strong></span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Listings-SOLD-in-10-days-or-less</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Listings-SOLD-in-10-days-or-less</guid><pubDate>Fri, 12 Aug 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Most Expensive and Cheapest Homes Sold in July</title><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/CheapestandExpensive.png" style="width: 100%" /></p>

<p><strong><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The month of July is officially behind us and August has begun. That means it is time to look at the cheapest and most expensive homes sold last month.</span></strong></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/NE%20Avenue%20County%20Assessor2.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 207px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" /></span><br />
<span style="color: rgb(169, 169, 169); font-size: 10.6667px;">Photo Credit: Douglas County Assessors Office</span><br />
<strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Cheapest home sold in </strong><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Omaha</strong><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">For</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> a whopping $12,500, this 1.5 story home in Omaha was on a 137 x 100 lot with 2 bedrooms and&nbsp;1 bathroom. This tiny home had just under 840 square feet including&nbsp;a full basement. It was on the market for just 2 days before being paid for in cash.</span></p>

<p><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/chicago%20street2.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 207px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" /></span><br />
<span style="color: rgb(169, 169, 169); font-size: 10.6667px;">Photo Credit: Douglas County Assessors Office</span><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>2. Most expensive home sold in Omaha</strong><br />
Located in the Fairacres subdivision on 1.36 acres, this 2.5 story brick home offered 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms with&nbsp;full basement for $1,552,000. It featured over 6,200 square feet and annual taxes of&nbsp;$28,132. Remarkably, it&nbsp;was only on the market for 1 day selling to&nbsp;a conventional buyer with 20% down.</span><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/400%20n%20broad.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 207px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" /></span><br />
<span style="color: rgb(169, 169, 169); font-size: 10.6667px;">Photo Credit: Google Maps</span><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>3. Cheapest home sold in southwest Iowa</strong><br />
A buyer finally snagged this home in Shenandoah after it was on the market for 328 days. They paid $7,500 cash for 968 total square feet featuring&nbsp;2&nbsp;bedrooms and&nbsp;1&nbsp;bathroom on the main floor.</span></p>

<p><br />
<img alt="" id="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/15127%20214TH%20Street.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 207px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" title="" /><br />
<span style="color:#A9A9A9;"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Photo Credit: PottCo.org</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>4. Most expensive home sold in southwest Iowa</strong><br />
The most expensive home sold in southwest Iowa was purchased in Council Bluffs last month for $795,000 after only 6 days on the market. The brick, ranch-style home with over 5,300 square feet had a private drive, outdoor kitchen, in-ground swimming pool with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms all on 4.5 acres.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><em><strong><span style="color:#333333;"><span style="font-family:tahoma,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;">Want to know more about the homes selling around you? <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Agents">Click to find an agent.</a></span></span></span></strong></em></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Most-Expensive-and-Cheapest-Homes-Sold-in-July</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Most-Expensive-and-Cheapest-Homes-Sold-in-July</guid><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How Many Homes Sold in the Last 7 Days?</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Sold7Days(1).png" style="width: 325px; height: 243px; float: left; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" />Since&nbsp;July 29th, the market has picked up substantially in both Omaha and Council Bluffs areas. Prices are going to continue to climb, act now before you are priced out of your future home.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">If you are on the fence about listing your home for sale and debating whether now is the time to move on with your plans of relocating&hellip; don&#39;t wait!</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">There are more buyers that are ready, willing and able to buy their first, second, third, or investment property now than there has been in years! The supply of homes for sale is not keeping up with the demand of these buyers.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Listing your home for sale now will give you the most exposure to buyers and the best sales price.</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Homes that sold in the Omaha area:</strong> <span style="font-size:14pt;">162 Homes</span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Average home price:</strong> <span style="font-size:14pt;">$188,035</span><br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Homes that sold in the Council Bluffs area:</strong> <span style="font-size:14pt;">30 Homes</span></span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Average home price:</strong> <span style="font-size:14pt;">$179,678</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">To find out more about what your home is worth, contact one of our experienced <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Agents"><strong>agents</strong></a> today!</span></span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-in-the-Last-7-Days</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-in-the-Last-7-Days</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Families in Business</title><description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.morse-re.com/agent_files/ArticleforBlog.png" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/ArticleforBlog.png" style="width: 300px; height: 398px; float: left; border-width: 2px; border-style: solid; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" /></span></a></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">This week our brokerage was featured in the &ldquo;Families in Business&rdquo; write-up in the <strong><a href="http://www.nonpareilonline.com/" target="_blank">Daily Nonpareil</a></strong>, a publication serving Council Bluffs and southwestern Iowa. Mike, my father and owner of the company, received a call asking if he wanted to be interviewed for the newspaper. We were very excited to be thought of since we are very much a &lsquo;family in business&rsquo; and have been since 2011. During a very busy week, my father, my brother and I were able to get an updated portrait from <strong><a href="http://abetterexposure.com/" target="_blank">A Better Exposure</a></strong> out of Omaha. Getting all three of us together at the same time seems to be getting more challenging as the months pass but somehow we were able to make it all to the appointment.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Some families are not able to work well together, but luckily we have found a groove where each of us are able to utilize our past experiences to grow the business. Our current <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Agents"><strong>agents</strong></a> are amazing and we cannot wait to see what the future holds!</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong><a href="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/ArticleforBlog.png" target="_blank">Click the article to enlarge and read it</a></strong>. Share it with someone who would like to buy or sell now or in the future.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Here is another photo taken that day (<a href="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/AllThreeMorse(1).png"><strong>click to enlarge</strong></a>):</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/AllThreeMorse(1).png"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/AllThreeMorse(1).png" style="width: 275px; height: 194px;" /></a></span></p>

<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">What do you think? Which is your favorite?</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Written by <a href="http://www.morse-re.com/Christy-Rhoades"><strong>Christy Rhoades</strong></a></span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Families-in-Business</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Families-in-Business</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Hydrant Party Time</title><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Hydrant%20Parties.png" style="width: 300px; height: 177px; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: left;" />It is time for the sound of water roaring through the broad opening of a nearby hydrant and screams of delight as the cool water splashes everyone on the hottest days of the year! Visit with the neighbors, watch the kids and enjoy the fun.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-family:tahoma,geneva,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/HydrantParties.pdf"><strong>Click to download</strong></a> the neighborhood hydrant party schedule for Council Bluffs.&nbsp;</span></p>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Hydrant-Party-Time</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/Hydrant-Party-Time</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How Many Homes Sold in 7 Days?</title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 16.8px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><img alt="" src="http://www.Morse-RE.com/agent_files/Sold7Days.png" style="text-align: center; width: 325px; height: 243px; float: left; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" /></strong></h3>

<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Since March 21, the market has picked up&nbsp;</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">substantially in both Omaha and Council Bluffs areas.</span></p>

<h3><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 16.8px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">What Does This Mean For Buyers?</strong></h3>

<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">There is a lot of competition out there right now for your dream home. Prices are going</span></span></span><span style="line-height: 21px; font-size: 12pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">&nbsp;to continue to climb, act now before you are priced out of your future home.</span></p>

<h3 style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 1.2em; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.5em; background: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 16.8px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background: transparent;">What Does This Mean For Sellers?</strong></span></span></h3>

<p style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px 0px 1.2em; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 21px; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); background: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">If you are on the fence about listing your home for sale and debating whether now is the time to move on with your plans of relocating&hellip; don&#39;t wait!</span></span></p>

<p style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px 0px 1.2em; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 21px; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); background: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There are more buyers that are ready, willing and able to buy their first, second, third, or investment property now than there has been in years! The supply of homes for sale is not keeping up with the demand of these buyers.</span></span></p>

<p style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px 0px 1.2em; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 21px; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); background: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Listing your home for sale&nbsp;<em style="border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; background: transparent;">now</em>&nbsp;will give you the most exposure to buyers and the best sales price.</span></span></p>

<h3><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Here are the statistics for the last 7 days:</span></span></h3>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">Homes that sold in the Omaha area:&nbsp;</strong><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">194 Homes</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Average home price:&nbsp;</strong><span style="font-size:16pt;">$200,175</span><br />
<br />
<strong>Homes that sold in the Council Bluffs area:&nbsp;</strong><span style="font-size:16pt;">29 Homes</span><br />
<br />
<strong>Average home price:&nbsp;</strong><span style="font-size:16pt;">$129,143</span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">To find out more about what your home is worth, <a href="/agents">contact</a> one of our experienced <a href="/agents">agents</a> today!</span></span></p>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>]]></description><link>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-in-7-Days</link><guid>http://www.morse-re.com/Blog/How-Many-Homes-Sold-in-7-Days</guid><pubDate>Tue, 29 Mar 2016 02:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item></channel></rss>