Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a 10 acre parcel of land in between Argyle and Blanchardville.



No covenants! This 10 acre lot near Yellowstone State Park and Yellowstone Golf Course will be the perfect place to build your dream. Plan your home to enjoy the long views of the countryside. The lay of the land will accommodate a walk-out if you like, and all utilities are at the road.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a 10 acre parcel of land in between Argyle and Blanchardville.



No covenants! This 10 acre lot near Yellowstone State Park and Yellowstone Golf Course will be the perfect place to build your dream. Plan your home to enjoy the long views of the countryside. The lay of the land will accommodate a walk-out if you like, and all utilities are at the road.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a three bedroom bungalow in Monroe.


Traditional home with all the updates! If you love the grace and charm of an older home, but worry about updating one, look no further. This 3 bedroom home has the gorgeous woodwork and details of yesteryear, but everything has been updated or redone in the last ten years: roof, Energy Star furnace, high efficiency central air, vinyl siding, energy efficient windows & more.

You'll have plenty of room for your family in the 1800+ square foot home. The eat in kitchen transitions to a light-filled sunroom, perfect for enjoying a winter morning. The formal dining room has the built-in hutch that adds so much charm to homes of this era. The formal living room is expanded by a a clever under-staircase nook. Upstairs, you will find a spacious loft waiting to be your home office, media room, or family room. The master bedroom suite is also upstairs with an attached half bath and large walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms downstairs. The main floor is also where you will find the laundry room, a space large enough to be used for sewing and crafts as well.

Privacy abounds in the yard, filled with an array of perennials in the flower beds. You are sure to spend many weekends, grilling out or enjoying the large patio with nearby fire pit with music in the background from the built-in sound system.

The garage simply must be seen to be believed. The two car attached garage is oversized with built in shelving for storage and a workshop area. It is insulated with hot and cold running water, floor drain, stereo sound and a wall-mounted television. The one car detached garage will fit an SUV, perfect for parking that third vehicle or storing that boat, ATV or a passel of bikes.

Don't miss this jewel of a home!

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a Cape Cod home in Monroe.


This adorable Cape Cod in excellent condition is waiting for you!

Clean and bright, this home has 4 bedrooms with gable nooks, 1.5 bathrooms, hardwood floors, an eat-in kitchen, dining room and a spacious living room.

The newer roof, Energy Star furnace, central air and water heater means all you need to do is bring in your furniture and start living. Great location by hospital, a garage and a nice yard to boot. Home warranty included for your peace of mind.

Don't miss this one!

How effective is print advertising?

I was working on a continuing education class today when I found a nugget of information that was too startling not to share.

Before I share the statistic, let me share a little background. Whenever Luis and I list a house, we always talk with the potential seller regarding print advertising. We do pretty much no print advertising. There is a reason for this. Three years ago, we did quite a lot. However, we decided to keep some statistics ourselves on the return on investment for our print advertising. Care to guess what that return was?

ZERO

It was rather surprising and sobering, and we consequently discontinued doing print advertisements for ourselves and special ads for our properties. We warn our sellers that we do not do prints ads for this reason. Buyers are not looking for homes in the paper; only the sellers look there. We don't even have a good return on open house advertising in print. At the last two open houses we hosted, one had zero percent attendance because of the print ad run by our broker and the other had only one couple out of six list "paper" as how they heard about the open house.

So, today when I found the following statistic, it both surprised me and made perfect sense.

More buyers found the home they actually purchased from a yard sign rather than from an advertisement in a home magazine.

1%of buyers found the home they bought through a home magazine. 14% found the home they bought through the yard sign.

It is interesting food for thought for home sellers, is it not?

Property of the Week

Time to move on up? Here is the perfect home for a growing family. Expand your living space with the finished lower level family room and wet bar or move outdoors to enjoy the 24x18' cement patio with 6' privacy fence and the yard. This 3 bedroom ranch has had updates to kitchen and bathroom, plus the Energy Star furnace, air conditioner and water heater are all just 5 years old. Come take a look today!

Did you get these chain emails?

There have been a couple email rumors going around regarding new federal legislation and the potential consequences for home owners. We thought it would be helpful to address these issues on our blog today.

Rumor: The new federal health care bill requires an additional 4% transfer tax on homes sold.

Fact: The new federal health care bill has a 3.8% Medicare tax for some high-income households with net investment income.

Starting in 2013, this tax applies only home households with adjusted gross incomes of over $250,000 and would only be charged on home-sale proceeds that exceed the capital gains exclusion of $500,000. If filing individually, these figures change to incomes over $200,000 and home sale proceeds over $250,000.


Rumor: The energy bill that Congress is working on would require home sellers to obtain an energy audit or make energy retrofits before selling.

Fact: The bill as written at this point would require new construction to be energy-labeled, but it does not allow states to require new ratings when the homes are sold.

FactCheck.org did a nice job answering this question with references on their website earlier this year.

If you come across any other rumors about these issues or others regarding changing rules for selling or buying a home, please ask our Facebook page, leave a comment, or drop us an email. We will check into it for you. We are here to help with all types of real estate questions here in the Green County area.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a 10 acre parcel of land in between Argyle and Blanchardville.



No covenants! This 10 acre lot near Yellowstone State Park and Yellowstone Golf Course will be the perfect place to build your dream. Plan your home to enjoy the long views of the countryside. The lay of the land will accommodate a walk-out if you like, and all utilities are at the road.

Congratulations

Congratulations on your first home, Cori! We hope that you will spend many happy years there.

If you dream of a photo of standing in front of your first home in the Monroe, WI area, give Brenda or Luis a call or check out our website to send us a message. We will be happy to work with you to help you find just the right home, whether it is your first home or if you are upsizing or downsizing.

Open House

Stop in between 5 and 7 pm this evening to view this lovely home at 1610 16th Ave in Monroe.

Traditional home with all the updates! If you love the grace and charm of an older home, but worry about updating one, look no further. This 3 bedroom home has the gorgeous woodwork and details of yesteryear, but everything has been updated or redone in the last ten years: roof, Energy Star furnace, high efficiency central air, vinyl siding, energy efficient windows & more.

You'll have plenty of room for your family in the 1800+ square foot home. The eat in kitchen transitions to a light-filled sunroom, perfect for enjoying a winter morning. The formal dining room has the built-in hutch that adds so much charm to homes of this era. The formal living room is expanded by a a clever under-staircase nook. Upstairs, you will find a spacious loft waiting to be your home office, media room, or family room. The master bedroom suite is also upstairs with an attached half bath and large walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms downstairs. The main floor is also where you will find the laundry room, a space large enough to be used for sewing and crafts as well.

Privacy abounds in the yard, filled with an array of perennials in the flower beds. You are sure to spend many weekends, grilling out or enjoying the large patio with nearby fire pit with music in the background from the built-in sound system.

The garage simply must be seen to be believed. The two car attached garage is oversized with built in shelving for storage and a workshop area. It is insulated with hot and cold running water, floor drain, stereo sound and a wall-mounted television. The one car detached garage will fit an SUV, perfect for parking that third vehicle or storing that boat, ATV or a passel of bikes.

Don't miss this jewel of a home!

May Market Report for Green County, Wisconsin

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in May of 2010:

• 37 homes sold in May of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 111 days,
  
• The average sale price was $150,139,
  
• The median sale price was $132,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $425,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $20,000.

Let's compare with May of 2009:

• 33 homes sold in May of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 96 days,
• The average sale price was $157,000,
• The median sale price was $425,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $765,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $75,000.

Two very expensive property sold in May of last year, and no very inexpensive homes sold in that month, which accounts for the very high average and median home prices. These are not normal numbers for our area.

Comparing the two years, it is great to see the number of single family homes sold still stable. Perhaps it is a little early to say that our real estate market has recovered, especially since our days on market are still high indicating a higher than average housing inventory, but we are certainly showing great signs of life again in the Green County area.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a three bedroom bungalow in Monroe.


Traditional home with all the updates! If you love the grace and charm of an older home, but worry about updating one, look no further. This 3 bedroom home has the gorgeous woodwork and details of yesteryear, but everything has been updated or redone in the last ten years: roof, Energy Star furnace, high efficiency central air, vinyl siding, energy efficient windows & more.

You'll have plenty of room for your family in the 1800+ square foot home. The eat in kitchen transitions to a light-filled sunroom, perfect for enjoying a winter morning. The formal dining room has the built-in hutch that adds so much charm to homes of this era. The formal living room is expanded by a a clever under-staircase nook. Upstairs, you will find a spacious loft waiting to be your home office, media room, or family room. The master bedroom suite is also upstairs with an attached half bath and large walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms downstairs. The main floor is also where you will find the laundry room, a space large enough to be used for sewing and crafts as well.

Privacy abounds in the yard, filled with an array of perennials in the flower beds. You are sure to spend many weekends, grilling out or enjoying the large patio with nearby fire pit with music in the background from the built-in sound system.

The garage simply must be seen to be believed. The two car attached garage is oversized with built in shelving for storage and a workshop area. It is insulated with hot and cold running water, floor drain, stereo sound and a wall-mounted television. The one car detached garage will fit an SUV, perfect for parking that third vehicle or storing that boat, ATV or a passel of bikes.

Don't miss this jewel of a home!

Congratulations

Congratulations to Luis and Teresa along with their adorable boys! We hope that you all enjoy your new home and that great big backyard!

Changing rules for rental property owners

The rules, like the times, keep on a-changin'

New rules went into effect on April 22, 2010, with regards to lead based paint. Owners of a housing property or child-occupied facility built prior to 1978 must adhere to new standards with remodeling.

If the project disturbs more than six square feet of paint in a room, 20 square feet of exterior paint, or involves any windows, the work is now regulated. Every regulated project must have at least on certified Lead-Safe Renovator to monitor compliance with lead based paint regulations, train uncertified workers and complete a final cleaning verification.

Painting projects are obviously ones that would be covered with the new regulations, but it is more than just that. Any project that qualifies under the 6/20/windows rules is covered. This includes, but is not limited to, anything that cuts into paint. Plumbing work, kitchen remodeling, redoing painted wood floors, carpentry work, and much more are all subject to the new regulations.

This new rule does not apply to homeowners working on their own residence themselves. It only applies if a homeowner hires a contractor to paint, repair or renovate the home. If the home is a rental property, the owner must hire only compliant companies or become a Certified Lead-Safe Company by having at least one Certified Lead-Safe Renovator on staff.

To become a Lead-Safe Renovator, a person must complete a one day Lead-Safe Renovation training course and them apply for certification through the Department of Health Services.

Visit the DHS website for more information on this new law or a list of approved trainers.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors are a good thing to have in a home.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced when a fuel is burned. Natural gas, wood, oil, liquid propane - all produce carbon monoxide. If the ventilation system for your furnace, heating stove or fireplace become blocked or stops working properly, carbon monoxide can seep in to your home without you ever being aware. This gas can be deadly, so a carbon monoxide detector can truly be a lifesaving device.

Carbon monoxide detectors are much like smoke detectors. They can be battery operated or electric, either hard-wired or plug-in. Like smoke detectors, it is recommended to have one on every level of your home. Placement in the hallway near any sleeping areas is highly recommended. The cost generally runs about $35-45 per detector. Dual smoke detector/carbon monoxide detectors are available as well for a little bit more.

Starting February 1, 2011, carbon monoxide detectors will be required in all residential properties. Now, the government is not going to come in to existing homes to insure that these are present and there is no penalty for non-compliance, but all home inspectors must check for carbon monoxide detectors effective that date.

Carbon monoxide detectors are good things for every home owner to have, but anyone who is considering selling a home should be aware of the changing laws. Pick up a couple detectors now and save yourself trouble later. Anything home sellers can take care of a simple fix to prevent a home buyer stressing over the inspection report, it is a good thing.

Hopefully that is the only thing that carbon monoxide detector will ever have to save, but it is good to know that if you need it, the detector will be there for you.


Image from First Alert.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a ranch in Monroe.

This one has everything you need! Spacious ranch, corner lot, close to schools, finished basement, two car attached garage - what more could you ask for? This three bedroom ranch home has a fantastic basement rec room complete with a huge bar for entertaining.

Asking price is only $119,900, and the sellers are motivated. Come take a look at this one today!

Call or text Brenda at 608-214-5796 or drop us a line via email for more information or to set up a private showing.

On Using a Buyer's Agent

I came across this video earlier today, and I thought that it illustrated very nicely some of the reason to use a Buyer's Agent when purchasing a home in Green County or anywhere else. Wisconsin laws do allow for a Buyer's Agent, and unless you have a Buyer's Agency Agreement, we as Realtors are obligated to put a Seller's interest first.

Property of the Week

This week's featured property is a split-level ranch in Monroe.

Bring the family home! This comfortable split level home located on a quiet street has all you need. 3 bedrooms, main floor laundry, living room with fireplace, family room, refinished wood floors, generous storage area, 2 car attached garage, spacious eat-in kitchen, bright rooms filled with natural lightening. The landscaped yard has plenty of room for kids, grandkids, pets or more gardens.

Tips for selling in today's market

Today's market is a competitive one with a larger than normal inventory. The question for sellers today is how to make their home stand out from the competition?

This video has some tips on this subject:

Hidden Upgrades

When walking through a home, the eye-catching higher end details often stand out. Great hardwood floors. Solid surface counter tops. Wonderful paint colors. Garden tubs. Six panel, solid wood doors.

Don't forget to ask about the things that are not as easy to see. Look for higher end upgrades in energy efficient features. These upgrades in a home will not only improve your comfort, but they also will save you money, making a home more affordable in the long run.

Take a good look at the windows. Are they a basic builder's grade window, or has the homeowner splurged with low e glass and argon fill? Windows can be a source of enormous heat loss in a home, and quality windows are a huge money saver in the long run. There are many different types of windows, and The Efficient Window Collaborative has an informative website explaining some of the differences.

What is the r-value of the insulation? This one is not easy to see, so ask the seller for documentation if they can provide it. Higher r-values make a home less expensive to both heat and cool.

Have the ducts been sealed? Heating and cooling combined account for about 46% of a home's energy cost on average. With a forced air system, ducts that have been sealed and insulated can prevent energy loss significantly.

Check out the efficiency rating for the heating and cooling system. An Energy Star system is one upgrade that will save you a lot of money over the years.

Those stainless steel appliances might look pretty, but will they cost you a pretty penny to operate? Even low end, inefficient appliances are available in very modern and appealing finishes. Look on the sides of the doors for efficiency ratings or write down the model numbers and check them out online after you take a look at a home.

Ask for copies of the seller's utility bills for the previous twelve months. Yes, there are lifestyle differences the can affect energy usage, but at least you will have a ballpark idea of how much your utility costs would be.

If you buy a highly efficient home, you may be able pay for the cosmetic upgrades you want with the money you are saving on your utility bills. The hidden upgrades can save you big money as the years go by!