The Advantages Of Pre-Approval

The decision to purchase a home can be an exciting but sometimes confusing undertaking.  When beginning your search for the perfect home, there are a number of factors that you will want to consider.  Whether you are a first time buyer or already own a home and want to move up, getting pre-approval for your mortgage is a necessary and time saving step.  Here are some of the benefits of getting pre-approved!

Know Your Budget!

Getting pre-approved means that you will have a clear picture of the credit you have available to you to purchase your new home, as well as your price range.  This will prevent you from spending time looking at homes that may be out of your budget and perhaps getting attached to a home that you cannot afford.  It means that if you find the home that is right for you, it can more easily become yours!

Close Quickly

Getting pre-approved for your mortgage means that you can act more quickly once you find the home that is right for you.  The process of getting the mortgage approved is generally the longest and most complicated process in any home purchase.  It requires verification of your income and employment, an evaluation of your credit reports, and the completion of a loan application. Having this step completed can save weeks of time in the closing process.  Pre-approval also means that you have an advantage should a bidding war begin.  The seller can be confident that you can afford the bid you are making and that you can move quickly to finalize the sale.

Overall, there are a number of benefits to getting pre-approval for your mortgage before beginning the search for your new home. Most importantly, it can give you peace of mind in knowing that you are ready and able to make the commitment to homeownership, and that you are not wasting your time in looking at properties that you may not be able to afford.

What Is A Home Warranty Plan?

What Is A Home Warranty Plan?

A home warranty plan, also known as a home protection plan, is a service contract that offers homeowners a way to safeguard themselves against possible breakage or a malfunction within the home.  It's impossible to predict the future, which is why so many buyers look for that little extra peace of mind to comfort them when life unexpectedly throws them an unforeseen problem.

Who Needs A Home Warranty Plan

Basically, anyone who purchases a home and is concerned with the cost of repairs should consider a home warranty plan.  This is especially true of first-time home buyers who may not be familiar with home maintenance.

Factoring In The Cost

When factoring in the potential cost of repairing a major appliance or other home component, a home warranty plan may not be a bad investment.  The actual cost of warranty coverage will depend on the plan chosen and the items protected.  As is the case with everything in life, it's best to shop around and compare prices.

Who Pays For A Home Warranty Plan

As a buyer, you can order a home warranty plan in conjunction with the purchase of your home.  However, some sellers or builders may include this type of offering as an incentive to attract potential buyers.  In this case, the plan is yours at no additional cost.  Some REALTORS® may also offer a home warranty plan as a gift to customers who buy a home through their agency.

What's Covered & What's Not

Just like a car warranty, no two policies are the same.  Coverage varies by location and issuer, and your REALTOR® can help you to choose a warranty plan that best suits your needs.  Most basic plans cover a home's heating and cooling system, electrical system, plumbing, water heater and major appliances, including a dishwasher, range/oven/cooktop, garbage disposal, etc.  Coverage does not apply to items that are misused or damaged, either intentionally or through negligence.  Instead, most home warranty plans are designed to protect the homeowner from defects that result during the course of normal wear and tear.

When considering the purchase of a home warranty plan, review the complete contract and familiarize yourself with exactly what's covered under your policy.  If you want an upgraded policy, don't hesitate to ask your REALTOR® if one is available.  Most companies do not require a home inspection and will notify homeowners when their coverage is about to expire.  The good news is that most policies are renewable.

What To Do If A Problem Arises

If you are unable to satisfactorily resolve an issue with your home warranty plan, either due to denial of a claim or undesirable service, talk to the REALTOR® who sold you the home.  If he/she refers a lot of business to this particular company, it may be possible for him/her to speak with them about reaching an amicable resolution.

The purchase of a home is a big step and it's likely to be the largest purchase you will ever make, so be sure to consider all of the options available to help protect yourself from costly repairs.  Ask your REALTOR® for more information relating to available home warranty plans. 

Seven Tips for First Time Home Buyers

Seven Tips For First-Time Home Buyers

Now that you've made the decision to purchase your first home, a hearty congratulations is in order!  Becoming a homeowner, especially for the first time, can stir up some feelings of anxiety and excitement.  With the knowledge that you gain through individual research and the help of your REALTOR®, you will soon begin to feel like a seasoned house hunter.

Tip # 1: Do Your Homework

Did you know that there are a number of incentives available to first-time home buyers?  Everything from a 5-10 percent down payment and interest rates as low as 3.00 percent are just a few of the ways that lenders help to make the dream of home ownership into a reality for many.  An FHA loan, for instance, is especially appealing to first-time home buyers.  The best way to find out what's available, in terms of down payment requirements and interest rates, is to do your homework by comparing offerings from various lenders.

Tip # 2: Save Money

Although many loans are geared toward offering lower down payments to first-time home buyers, it's important to save as much money as possible so that you will have enough to provide an earnest money deposit (if applicable), pay for closing costs and still have the funds to furnish and decorate your new home.

Tip # 3: Get Your Credit Profile In Order

When you apply for a loan, the lender will access a copy of your credit report and will use the information to determine your creditworthiness and/or interest rate.  This means that you will want to make sure that the information contained in your credit report is accurate and up-to-date.  You can do this by requesting a copy of your file from each of the three major credit reporting agencies - Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.

In addition to past credit history, lenders will also look at your current debt ratio in order to determine whether or not you can afford the home.  This means that you may want to consider paying down some of your existing credit card debt and avoid taking on any new debt before applying for a mortgage.

Tip # 4: Start Your Search

With the World Wide Web being what it is today, it's no surprise that many potential home buyers start their search online.  A Realtor's Web site is designed to not only list real estate, but also to educate a buyer as they move through the process of searching for a new home.  In addition, the internet offers a way for consumers to browse through color photos and virtual tours, both interior and exterior, along with information pertaining to the homes themselves.  The convenience of being able to find a home that you like without having to wait is just one of the many benefits to shopping for a house online.  When you are finally ready to meet with a REALTOR®, you will already have one or more prospects in mind.

Tip # 5: Have Patience

Perhaps you will find the perfect house this week, or maybe it will take a little longer.  Some buyers find exactly what they are looking for right away, while others have to do a little more searching to find their dream home.  As a first-time home buyer, it's a good idea to begin the process with an understanding that good things really do come to those who wait.  You may see a number of homes, take numerous photos and may even make an offer or two, but patience may very well be the key to finding your new home.

Tip # 6: Take Notes

If you see a lot of homes, it will be impossible to remember the features of each.  For this reason, you should consider taking a notebook and writing down each unique or defining aspect that you like or dislike about a particular house.  This information, along with any photos that you take, will help you greatly when it's time to make a choice.

Tip # 7: Don't Settle

A home is a big investment and it could, quite possibly, be the largest you will ever make.  For this reason, along with the fact that you will be living in the home every day, make sure that you get what you want.  There could be an instance where you need to make some type of compromise, but you may want to avoid choosing something just because it's within your price range or you feel as though it's your only option.  New houses are placed on the market every day and, as a buyer, the next one listed may just be your dream home.

Need a Few Ideas to Help Organize your Garage?

Ideas For Organizing Your Garage

Believe it or not, your garage is not only made to house your automobiles.  In fact, you can use it for storage or even a work area for small household projects.  Whether you decide to keep tools, lawn care equipment or other accessories in the garage, organization is a must.

Maximize Your Workspace

If you use the garage for small woodworking projects or other chores that require a sturdy surface, consider installing a fold-down table on the interior wall.  When not in use, you can simply lift the table back up and into place.  This is a terrific idea for those who have a small garage or simply enjoy making the most out of their workspace.

Unclutter Your Clutter

If you have any items that are broken, outdated or simply unusable for any reason, toss them out.  One of the first steps to organizing your garage is to get rid of the things that you no longer need or can use.

If you have tools that are rarely used, put them away so that you can place the most commonly used tools in the forefront.  As a general rule, your garage will be more efficient if the things that you need on a regular basis are easily accessible.

Categorize & Sort

When it comes to organizing any part of your home, including the garage, properly categorizing your items is essential.  This will help you to locate everything quickly and efficiently.  You can use storage bins, shelves and even clear drawers for sorting your items.

Storage Solutions For Your Small Items

If you typically use your garage to store hardware, such as nails, bolts and other small items, try organizing them in a clear glass jar instead of leaving them lying loosely in a toolbox.  Not only is the proper storage safer, but it also allows you to easily view and retrieve the items as needed.  Used baby food jars are ideal for this purpose. 

Wall Mounting Is A Must

If you or your children own a bicycle or you need to find the perfect spot for your ladder or large tools, consider mounting them on the wall using the proper hook or other support.  It's important to note that larger items should be within reach to avoid injury while trying to retrieve them.  Mounting your large items on the garage walls will save on both yard and garage clutter and it's also a wise way to protect your items from being stolen.

Have You Prepared Your Garden for Winter? Weekly Home Tip #6

Getting Your Garden Ready For Winter

The beauty and relaxation that your garden can provide you and your family is certainly worth all the work you put in each year.  Putting in a little extra work at the end of the season, however, can make getting your garden ready next spring easier and can help keep your plants healthy through the winter months.  Here are a few great tips that will get your garden ready to handle the cold and snow.

Clean Up: Though not a favorite task of any gardener, it is a very necessary step to getting your garden ready for winter.  Remove your annuals, empty and store any pots and containers, and give your garden one last mow.  Also, raking up all those leaves is one chore all homeowners are familiar with each autumn, but they do make great mulch for your perennials and vegetable garden, and are also a great addition to your compost.

Plant Or Relocate Trees And Shrubs: The fall is the best time to get new trees into the ground, or move those you have earmarked to be relocated.  The best strategy is to choose trees that are hardy for your zone, as it makes their survival more likely and maintenance easier.  Also, choosing evergreens and shrubs that produce berries in the winter months can make your garden more interesting and provide activity for birds and other wildlife.

Protect Your Trees: For new or young trees this is an important step you'll not want to forget in winterizing your garden.  Covering trees and shrubs with burlap is most important in areas that have exposure to northwest winds and high sun.  Be sure, however, not to do this too early in the season, in order to prevent rot.  It is also a good idea to give your evergreens plenty of water to prevent burnout.

Test Soil And Mulch: After the ground freezes be sure to add mulch to your perennial garden.  This will protect both your soil and plants through the long winter months, as well as provide much needed nutrients for spring.  This is also a good time to test the pH of your soil to see if it is lacking any essential minerals for the next growing season.

Plant Spring Bulbs: This is also the time of year to get your spring bulbs into the ground. Be sure that you do this before the first frost, and give them plenty of water when planting them.

Unlike all the work you put into your garden in spring, winter clean-up can seem like a difficult and unrewarding task, but with this effort you will keep your garden in tip-top shape for the growing season ahead!

Remember if you would like a specific topic covered contact me and I will gladly research for you!!

Trick or Treat Safety Tips

Halloween Safety Tips

On October 31 of every year, children around the nation enjoy carving jack-o-lanterns, dressing up in their favorite costumes and going out trick-or-treating for candy and treats.  Although the traditions of Halloween have been longstanding, it is important that both parents and children approach the occasion with a combination of diligence, forethought and safety in mind.

Costume Selection

When children choose a Halloween costume, they think more about the style and character than the actual safety aspect.  It's important that any mask be designed in such a way that does not obstruct the child's view while being worn.  In addition, a costume should be comfortable and not restrict movement or increase the risk of the child stumbling or falling.  Therefore, the costume's length must also be considered.  Bright colors also are recommended so they can be easily seen.  

Chaperone Requirements

In a perfect world, it would be safe for children to go out and enjoy Halloween by trick-or-treating in the nearby area or neighborhood.  However, this is not a perfect world and it's important that an adult accompany children who are outdoors and/or trick-or-treating.  Ideally, there should be one adult for every 2-3 children.  This is especially important in large groups, where it may take more than one adult to supervise multiple children at once.

Must-Have Accessories

Because trick-or-treating typically occurs in the evening hours, it's important to have a working flashlight on hand.  Add fresh batteries to ensure it will last through the night.  Adults should carry their cell phone in case of car trouble or to reach emergency contacts, if needed.

Rules Of The Road

When trick-or-treating, always remain in well-lit areas.  This includes areas with working street lights and homes that have a porch light turned on, which is a sign that the homeowner(s) welcomes trick-or-treaters.  If the house is dark and/or the porch light is off, avoid the home and continue on to the next one.

One of the greatest attractions of Halloween to a child is that of trick-or-treating and the prospect of receiving candy and other treats.  It's important that both parents and children know which types of candy are safe and which are not.  Candy that is unwrapped or is not factory sealed should not be eaten.  Instead, it should be thrown away.  In addition, candy with expiration dates that have passed or anything that's homemade should be discarded.  With this in mind, it is recommended that nothing is eaten until parents and children examine all of the “loot” once everyone gets home.

Observing Local Curfews

Trick-or-treating is typically designated at a certain time for every area.  This means that some towns may allow trick-or-treating on the night before or the night of Halloween.  Additionally, there are specific hours and age limits that must be observed by all who choose to trick-or-treat.  It's important that both children and adults understand the local rules and adhere to them strictly.  If you are concerned about missing the curfew, wear a watch that lights up with the touch of a button.  This will allow you to easily see your watch face in the dark and will ensure that everyone gets home on time.

Weekly Home Tip 5 - Is Your House Ready for Winter??

FIVE QUICK TIPS TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER

Roof repairs: If you can safely get onto your roof to inspect for missing shingles or other factors that may lead to a leaky roof, now's the time to do it!  If not, call in a professional organization and have them take care of the rooftop work for you.

Seal it off: Inspect doors and windows to ensure that the weather-stripping is in good condition.  This will keep your house warmer and cozier in the winter months.

Hot stuff: Make sure that your heater and ventilation systems are in good working order!  Clean out accessible ducts and replace filters where necessary.

Chimney sweep: Creosote, a black substance that builds up in the chimney when wood is burned, can cause chimney fires.  Inspect your chimney for creosote and call a chimney sweep to keep your fireplace safe and functional.

Gutter check: Now's the time to clean out those rain gutters again!  If you want to do it yourself, make sure that you can safely access the gutters and then scoop out any debris, blast the drains clean with a high-powered hose, and repair any leaks you may find along the way.

Would you like a specific topic covered?  Contact me and I will do the research for you.

Weekly Home Tip - Is Your Fireplace Safe?

Using Your Fireplace Safely

A fireplace is a great feature in any home, and can create that warm, homey feeling on a cold winter evening that every homeowner dreams of.  Whether you have a gas fireplace or a wood-burning fireplace, there are a few important precautions you should take and safety measures to follow every time you use your fireplace.

Keep The Fire Contained

Especially if you have an older home, you should verify that the fireplace and hearth are up to code.  The hearth is required to be a certain size to prevent sparks or embers from the fire hitting the carpet or wood floors and starting a fire.  You should also ensure that you have appropriate metal doors or a mesh curtain that will keep the fire and any sparks inside the fireplace itself.

Keep anything flammable away from the fireplace, including paper, blankets, furniture, or anything else that could easily catch fire.  If you have a wood-burning fireplace, keep the wood in a spot where a stray spark or ember won't reach it.  The same goes for kindling or anything you use to start the fire.

Maintaining The Fireplace And Chimney

In a wood-burning fireplace, a substance known as creosote can build up on the inside of the chimney, putting you at risk for a dangerous chimney fire.  Every year before the winter season begins, you should have a professional chimney sweep clean out your chimney.  They should also inspect everything to ensure your fireplace is functioning properly.  Be sure to clean out ashes and soot from the fireplace regularly; this is recommended every time you use it.

Even with a gas fireplace there is some maintenance to consider.  You should have a chimney sweep perform a yearly inspection and cleaning of the inside of your fireplace, especially in hard to reach places like the fan.  They should also make certain that the gas lines and ignition switch are working properly.

Fireplaces And Children

If you have children, use caution with your fireplace.  Never leave a child unattended in a room with a lit fireplace.  Be certain that lighters and matches are always kept well out of reach.  Before you start the fire burning season, sit down with your children and discuss the safety rules for the fireplace, making sure they understand the dangers.

Your fireplace can provide warmth and ambience, and will serve you well for a long time as long as you take care of it.  Keep up on maintenance and ensure that everything is safe and up to code before you use your fireplace.

Weekly Home Tip #3

Solar Lighting For Your Yard

One of the simplest, most economical and also eco-friendly ways to provide lighting in your yard is to use solar lights.  There are a wide variety of solar lighting options on the market that can help you to create the right ambience for an evening on the porch, light your sidewalk and driveway, or simple illuminate your yard for aesthetic appeal.

Solar lighting is simple to install and uses the energy absorbed from the sun during the day to provide the power for nighttime lighting.  This means you can light your yard without affecting your energy bills.  There are a few different options you can use to create the lighting effect you are seeking in your yard.

Lighting Your Yard And Patio

The most commonly used solar yard lights are the classic stake lights.  They can be placed at the interval of your choice, and are great for lining flower beds, placing around the patio, or illuminating the path up to your house.  These versatile lights are perfect for just about any situation.  They give a very classic look that works in both the front and back yard and will fit in with most landscaping or architecture.

To add mood lighting to your patio, solar powered Tiki torches are a great choice.  Unlike traditional torches, there is no risk of fire and no messy oil.  Many even flicker just like a candle to create the same ambience that you would expect from traditional Tiki torches.

Lighting Your Driveway

Another option you might want to consider is driveway solar lights.  These flat lights are designed to light the edges of the driveway to make parking easier at night.  Especially for long or curving driveways, these are a great way to illuminate the way at night.  There are two main types of driveway lights; the first type sits on top of the surface, while the second type is actually embedded in the driveway surface, leaving it level.  Either type illuminates very well, but the second type will not be damaged if you accidentally drive over it, so if that is a risk you might consider the embedded type of driveway lights.

Solar lights give your home a warm glow at night and require virtually no maintenance.  Install them, let the sun do the work, and then enjoy them when the sun goes down!

Weekly Home Tip 2

Tips On Saving Energy & Money At Home

When you save on energy, you also save money.  As a homeowner, there are a number of ways that you can do both and still have the energy to enjoy your everyday life.

The Buzz On Bulbs

One of the most obvious ways to save energy in your home is to turn off the television when nobody is watching or when the room is empty.  Additionally, avoid leaving lights on that aren't necessary.  Speaking of lights, your choice of light bulbs may also have an impact on your energy bill as certain types require more electricity than others resulting in higher energy costs.

Keep It Cool

During the warm spring and summer months, it's best to keep all appliances that give off a lot of heat away from the thermostat.  Otherwise, your home may appear hotter than it actually is and the air conditioner will then be made to work harder.  This, in turn, equals more energy being used and more money being spent on energy costs.

Speaking of heat, it's a good idea to avoid excessive use of the oven when it's hot outside.  During the warm weather months, the oven can quickly cause your home's interior to heat up.  This means the air conditioner will once again be working harder to cool your home's interior, which increases your energy consumption.  One popular alternative is to use the microwave.

Shop Smart

Whether you have outdated appliances or are simply looking to furnish a new home, it's a good idea to keep energy efficiency in mind while shopping for new models.  Although energy-efficient appliances may be more expensive, they can save you money in the long run by cutting your energy costs every month.

Heating & Cooling

If you want to save a substantial amount of money, take a close look at your heating and cooling costs, which often make up over 50 percent of a family's energy bill.  When it comes to heating or cooling, make sure that the thermostat is adjusted at night and when the home is empty.  Otherwise, you are simply wasting energy.  Make sure that filters for both heating and cooling units are replaced regularly.

Sun Sense

In the summer, leave your curtains and/or blinds closed in order to minimize the sun's heat from entering your home as this could cause your air conditioner to work harder.  After all, your air conditioner is designed to cool your home and the sun's heat only makes the temperature rise.  In the winter, however, open your curtains in order to get the most out of the sun's warm rays. 

Weekly Home Tip!!!!

Home Safety Tips

Your home is your haven and, as such, it should be a place where you feel safe.  If you want to protect yourself and your family, home safety should be a priority in your life.  Here are some ideas on how to deal with some of the most common concerns facing homeowners today.

Do Some Detective Work On Your Detectors

Make sure that your smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries.  It's important to clean them regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and dirt, which may cause them to malfunction or stop working altogether. 

Make Sure That Your Security System Is Secure

If your home has a security system, make sure that nobody else has the code.  If you purchased your home with the security system in place, have the code changed as a precaution.  Just as you would change the locks to prevent friends, acquaintances or family members of the previous owner from entering the house without your permission or knowledge, it's equally important to change the code on your security system. 

Obstacles & Falls

Many people die or get injured each year as a result of a fall in their home.  Make sure that the way you arrange your furniture and possessions makes it easy for you to move around your home.  Be especially careful about where you put low items that you may trip over.

Trailing electric and phone wires can also be hazardous-try to connect appliances to a socket nearby.  If trailing wires are unavoidable, arrange them as far out of the way as possible and tape them down with strong electrical tape or something similar.

Keep staircases and passageways clear, and never place a loose rug at the top of the stairs.

Try to organize your storage so that you can reach items you use regularly without having to climb.  Don't be tempted to balance on chairs or boxes if you do need to reach something high-use a proper step ladder with non-slip steps, or wait until someone else can help.

Weekly Home Tip!!

Ways To Make Your House Smell Good

If you want a house to smell clean, you clean it.  But what can you do to add a special touch that makes your house smell one step beyond clean?  Use some common “scents,” a little knowhow and a lot of creativity to make your house smell fantastic.

Use Your Good Scents

Many homeowners choose to use scented candles in their home.  As the candle burns, the oils melt and create a wonderful smell throughout the entire room.  Not only do these smell great, but certain scents can also be relaxing.  Lavender, for instance, is commonly used in aromatherapy and is believed to be a calming scent.  Vanilla, strawberry, cinnamon and even chocolate are also popular among homeowners who want to add a special touch to their home.

Good Enough To Eat

If you really want to make your home smell terrific, add a bowl of fresh fruit to the dining room table.  Oranges, tangerines and apples will provide a colorful centerpiece and a scent that's simply yummy.

If you like to bake, there's nothing better than the smell of freshly baked cookies fresh out of the oven.  Of course, if you don't feel up to baking every day, you can always use a chocolate scented candle instead.

Make Your Home Blossom

If you really want to add a terrific aroma to your home, place a vase of fresh cut flowers in your living/family room.  A perfectly designed arrangement will act as a wonderful centerpiece, but will also fill the room with a wonderful smell.  Roses are terrific for adding an unmistakable scent to any room, but many other flowers will prove to be just as nice.

Everyone “Nose” Potpourri

A potpourri mixture, which contains dried petals and spices, is typically placed in a bowl and used to add a wonderful scent to any room.  A variety of mixtures are commonly found in any retailer's craft section or anywhere that scented candles are sold.  Potpourri is low maintenance in that it requires nothing more than being placed in a bowl and situated in the room of your choice.

Freshening Up The Air

These days, air fresheners are everywhere.  Why?  Quite simply, because they work.  Individuals who suffer from allergies may have a difficult time with some scents and/or brands of air fresheners, so be sure to keep this in mind when shopping.  Air fresheners are available in a wide variety of scents and are generally inexpensive, which makes them a nice choice for many homeowners.

Tyler Rufenacht | Greater Madison Realty, LLC, dba RE/MAX Preferred | (608) 370-3506 4601 Bautista Dr, Mc Farland, WI 4BR/3.0BA Single Family offered at $289,900 Year Built 2012 Sq Footage 2,057 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3.0 Floors 2 Parking 2 Lot Size Unspecified description Immaculate one year old 4 Bedroom 2.5 bath home in Secret Places Subdivision in Mcfarland. Move right in and enjoy your home that backs up to a green-way and is located on a corner lot. The first floor features a large kitchen with stainless appliances, open concept kitchen/living/dining area, powder room, laundry/mudroom, and separate office with french doors. Featured on the second floor is a Master Suite with walk in closet and three other bedrooms. see additional photos below property features - Cable-ready - Wired additional photos Contact info:   Tyler Rufenacht Greater Madison Realty, LLC, dba RE/MAX Preferred (608) 370-3506 Posted: August 01, 2013

Housing Market Statistics

The market has been heating up even more than in early spring.  Check out this article from Realtor.com for more statistics on the market.

http://www.realtor.com/news/pending-home-sales-hit-highest-point-since-2006/

Call me if you would like a no strings attached evaluation of what your home is worth today!!!

What Repairs to Make Before Selling Your Home

One of the most common questions asked before someone decides to list their home is "what repairs should I make to maximize my profits".  Should you finally finish the "Honey Do List" you have been putting off, or should you make more extensive repairs?

While major repairs or projects may bring you a good return on your investment in certain market conditions.  It can be difficult to know what major projects to complete.  Have a Realtor help you make this decision by showing you how similar homes to yours are selling with repairs vs similar homes without repairs.

If you don't want to tackle the larger projects there are many small items that can be fixed that will have a huge impact on the potential buyers that come to take a look at your home.  Here is an article from MSN Real Estate that explains 10 items that should always be addressed before you sell.

http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=13108483

Mortgage Rate Update

According to Realtor.com current mortgage rates have dipped slightly in the last week to just below 4%.  Mortgages rates have started to rise in the last few months.  If you have been thinking of selling your home and buying a new one, or if you are looking to purchase a new home NOW is a great time to take advantage of the current rates.

Contact me today if you would like to sell your current home or if you are looking to purchase a new home.

Link to the full article from Realtor.com

"Can I Finish Your Ice Cream" - Ollie

WISCONSIN HOME SALES RISE AGAIN

Wisconsin Home Sales Report from the Wisconsin Realtors Association

Date: June 17, 2013

MADISON, Wis. – Strong home sales in Wisconsin for May helped boost prices up, according to the most recent statistical report released by the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA). The sale of existing homes in May increased 18.2 percent over last May, now the 23rd straight month of positive sales growth in Wisconsin, which helped push the median price up 4.3 percent to a statewide median of $144,000.

“These are very positive signals and represent an uptick from the pace of sales established in the first four months of the year,” said Renny Diedrich, Chairman of the WRA board of directors. Existing home sales rose 10.3 percent from January through April this year compared to that same four-month period in 2012. “There’s no doubt consumer demand has been strong over the last couple of years, but now we’re also seeing sellers jump back in the market as well,” said Diedrich, noting new listings of homes for sale jumped 16.4 percent in May, compared to last year. “This increased supply should help moderate price increases that can occur during periods of very strong demand,” she said.

Wisconsin home sales grew in every region of the state in May with the strongest spike in sales seen in the South Central region where sales increased 28.9 percent compared to May 2012. Existing home sales were up 20.3 percent in the North region, and they rose 18.9 percent in the West region of the state. Both of these regions have significant second home markets, which can be more volatile than the primary home market. Finally, home sales rose 15.7 percent in the Central region, increased 15.0 percent in the Southeast, and grew 11.8 percent in the Northeast over the May 2012 to May 2013 period.

The median price for homes in May was $144,000, an increase of 4.3 percent. “Prices showed solid but sustainable growth,” said Michael Theo, WRA President and CEO. “We saw some large increases in median prices in March and April, so it’s good to see more modest increases in May,” he said. Median prices rose in five of the six regions statewide, with the increase strongest in the South Central region, up 7.2 percent, followed by the Northeast region where prices were up 6.3 percent. Median price increased in the West, Central and Southeast regions between 4.4 percent and 5.3 percent over the period between May 2012 and May 2013. Only the North region experienced a fall in median prices over the period, down 13 percent. “It’s not uncommon to see prices in the northern part of the state fluctuate substantially when there is a shift in the mix of properties between primary and second homes,” said Theo.

Although continuing to slip, housing affordability remained solid in the state due in large part to low interest rates. The Wisconsin Housing Affordability Index shows the percentage of the median-priced home that a buyer earning the median family income can afford to buy, given current mortgage rates and a 20 percent down payment. The index was at 239 in May, which is down from its peak of 292 in January of this year.

Despite a relatively weak job market, the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index has increased in each of the last two months, with the most recent release indicating that consumers are more optimistic about the future conditions of the economy and future job prospects. “We expect the combination of improving consumer confidence and low mortgage rates to keep demand strong throughout the summer, and this will put upward pressure on prices,” said Theo. “Potential buyers may have missed the bottom of the price cycle, but there continues to be excellent value in this market,” Theo said. “While both mortgage rates and home prices rising, Wisconsin housing continues to be very affordable, and an experienced REALTOR® is still the best way for buyers to identify the best deals,” he said.

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What’s Hot in Home Design for 2013

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Its always interesting to see the changes in home construction and remodeling and what is popular.  This article explains some of the design trends that are currently being installed in homes.  One of the really interesting topics is the integration of technology in the home.  I have watched this take place throughout my career and it has been fascinating to watch it change.  The article covers the use of our smart phones to run the systems in your home while you are there as well as when you are away from your home.  It will be amazing to see how technology changes how we live in our homes in the future.

Video: Why you should use a REMAX Agent

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Comic video on what you can avoid by choosing a full time RE/MAX agent to help you with buying or selling your home.