The Truth about Sanitary Improvement Districts (SID)

New Home Buyers – Learn All About Sanitary Improvement Districts from Charleston Homes!

Hey, Luke Ediger with Charleston Homes here in Omaha! Recently, I got some great information from Walt Slobotski of NP Dodge about sanitary improvement districts or otherwise know as an SIDs.

Now, I know this isn’t the most exciting topic in the world! However, it’s one of the first questions new home buyers ask when they come to Charleston because they want to know how it will affect their taxes.

First, some background on SIDs in case you’re not familiar with them. Well, any time a new subdivision is created it has to be financed because new streets, new lighting, new streets, etc. have to be created.

So, a SID is essentially a financing tool, and it’s used extensively in the state of Nebraska and, especially, Omaha.

Second, with the recent economic turmoil in the nation, some new home buyers worry that they’ll get stuck with sudden and dramatic rises in taxes if a SID finds itself in financial trouble.

There are government safeguards in place to help protect homeowners!

Now, another question new home buyers often ask is, “When I build a new home in a subdivision, how much higher are my taxes going to be in comparison to established homes?”

The answer is they will be higher, but not by much! Remember, you’re paying for new everything – sewers, roads, lighting, etc. – so, you’re getting the benefit of the latest technology and a wonderful living environment.

If you’d like to learn more about this subject, contact us today. Our numbers are 402.502.5600 or 402.934.2212! Or drop us a line at http://www.charlestonhomesomaha.com!

Things to Look For When Selecting a Lot for Your New Home!

Today we’re going to offer you some money-saving, frustration-preventing advice on selecting a lot for your new home, so let’s get started!

Your first determination is location – where exactly are you going to build your home?

The second is…what type of house are you going to build? In terms of lots, there’s a difference between building, say, a two-story and a ranch house.

Now, these determinations are critical for two simple reasons: One, the house has to fit on the lot. And, two, it has to meet the covenant requirements within the neighborhood.

For example, for setbacks, some neighborhoods require a five-foot side yard while others mandate a seven-foot one, etc. (You can find information about the covenants for particular neighborhoods online.)

Then, there are the things you simply never expect like encroachments, power lines, pedestals, or even fire hydrants located in the middle of your driveway!

That’s why you need to work with professional builders like us. We’re highly experienced at spotting such problems and helping you to avoid or overcome them before you waste precious money and time.

Now, you may be curious as to what types of lots are available in our area. Well, in general, there are three kinds, as described next.

The Flat Lot
From the street, the lot rises slightly (3’ to 6’) to the house area. This type keeps the drainage going all the way around the house and to the street.

The Daylight Lot
From the street, this lot also rises slightly, but then drops off a bit more steeply (3’ to 6’ feet). The slightly steeper drop-off allows the bottom windows of your house to have a great view.

The Walkout Lot
From the street, this lot also rises slightly, but comes down more steeply in the rear (6’ +). In the rear, water will draw toward the back, while, in the front, water drains to the street. Plus, of course, you can “walk out” from the lower level, often beneath a deck, into your backyard.


Bottom line: Every lot is different, and there are a lot of factors to consider! That’s why it’s important to work with building professionals early in the process.

To find out more, call us today at Saddlebrook (934-2212) or Portal Ridge (502-5600)

Or, contact us on the web at www.charlestonhomesomaha.com!