Resolution Revolt!

I make New Year's Resolutions.  I have actually made countless resolutions.  Most fall by the wayside by the first week in February.  That's not unusual, I know.  It happens to most of us.  That's why this year, I have Resolution Revolt.  It's not that I disagree with resolutions, it's just that I rarely keep them.  Often times, because they are not measurable.

For instance, if my resolution is to lose weight, what does that mean?  By when?  How much?  Do I treat myself if I reach my goal?You get the idea.  So this year I am resolving to do it differently.  I've learned that large leaps rarely work; but small tweaks often times do work!

So this year, I am making small tweaks.  If I resolve to be more kind, the resolution should actually read that I will complete one act of kindness per week.  I know that doesn't sound like much, but if I can keep that resolution, then I can expand on it.  So rather than quitting in February, perhaps two months into the new year I will have increased my acts of kindness to three acts per week.  And who knows, by summer maybe I'll be doing one kind act per day!

I don't know if it will work, but it's worth a shot.  What's your New Year's "tweak"?

Wishing you Joy and Peace in the new year!  All the best in 2019.  Bring it on! 

Winter a Great Time to Purchase Real Estate

In October, existing home sales fell 2.2 percent compared to October 2017 and the median selling price rose 5.1 percent to $182,500. During the first 10 months of the year, home sales fell 2.2 percent compared to that same period last year, and median prices were up 6.4 percent to $184,000. 

While the market will likely still remain in the sellers’ favor, as we head into the winter months, buyers can expect the scales to shift slightly. Traditionally, there’s far less competition in the real estate market come fall and winter. And with interest rates slowly rising, interested home buyers might just find a sweet spot in the coming months.

While inventories remain very tight statewide, buyers can expect home prices to dip slightly during the winter months, according to the Wisconsin REALTORS Association. Because people tend to avoid moving during the winter months, sellers during this time of year are typically more motivated.  Don't under estimate Winter as a good time to purchase Real Estate!

Unusual Property in Lake Mills

Here's an unusual property! It's a former church that is now work space and residence.  Oh, the possibilities.  Yoga studio? Superior serenity. Music studio? Incredible acoustics in the Sanctuary.  Wedding/event venue? Wonderful gardens and secret spaces.  Truly an incredible property!  Contact me for more details!

Edgewood Stadium Controversy

Homeowners surrounding Edgewood High School are on a mission.  They are opposing the proposed new football stadium that would include adding seating, lights and a sound system to the practice field that already exists.  Local residents are concerned about the noise, light pollution and extra traffic and parking issues that 6-8 night high school football games will mean for the neighborhood.

Others in the area, and beyond, have concerns about what the added light and noise will mean for wildlife living along Lake Wingra and in the nearby arboretum.

I think it would be great if Edgewood had a "home" field.  They currently play homes games at Middleton High School.  The same is true of West High School; their home games are played at Mansfield Stadium at Memorial High School.  Neither school has a true "home" field.  It is certainly hard to distinguish a "home" game from an "away" game when you share a field with another school.

That being said, I do have some concerns with the proposed new stadium.  When Edgewood installed the current practice field several years ago, they assured the neighborhood that the field was just for practice, there would not be any high school games played on the field.  They have changed their tune, which is my concern.  It's a slipperly slope.  Six-eight night football games each fall turns into evening soccer games a few times a week in the spring and fall.  And what about Lacrosse games?

I'm still on the fence and I can see both sides of the issue.  Time will tell where this issue lands.  What are your thoughts?

Short Supply=Fewer Home Sales

Home sales in Wisconsin fell sharply in September, dropping 12 percent relative to September 2017, according to data released by the Wisconsin REALTORS Association.

A continued shortage of available properties has caused a year-to-date decline in sales of almost 3 percent compared with 2017. Home prices have increased statewide by nearly 7 percent, though the upturn in Dane County has been slightly less, with prices increasing only 3 percent over the same period.

While new construction hasn’t quite kept up with demand, a new report from the Wisconsin Policy Forum shows a jump of almost 2 percent in new construction for Dane County — a trend that will hopefully help to provide buyers with more options.
The data indicates strong economic growth in the area. Development and property values have returned to pre-recession levels, with countywide property values increasing more than 20 percent in the last decade.

Although housing in Wisconsin remains affordable by national standards, a recent rate increase by the Fed has pushed mortgage rates up by more than three quarters of a percent since September 2017. With more rate hikes expected, enlisting the help of a Realtor can pay dividends.  Feel free to contact me to talk!

Midvale Heights

Darling ranch in popular Midvale Heights neighborhood! Welcome to this three bedroom/two bath home perfect for the empty-nester or young family. Kitchen and main level bath completely updated PLUS brand new lower level full bath...Bonus! Hardwood floors throughout. Classic bedroom built-ins to contain clutter! Finished lower level spaces offer options for kids, movie night or workout space. Delightful three-season porch and lovely deck with pergola for entertaining or relaxing. Large, fenced yard with adorable shed. Close to Sequoya Commons, parks, schools and Hilldale Mall! Join me at the open house on Sunday 11/11/18 from noon-2 p.m.  Super cute!!

School House for Sale!

FORMER SCHOOL HOUSE, charming, historic, and full of 'flexible spaces' - owned and occupied for nearly 50 yrs by UW Art Faculty Wayne Taylor (with wife Donna), during which many gala gatherings were held, much artwork was produced, resultant shows of two and three dimensional art had plenty of space to be displayed. 

Fabulous ambient light and high ceilings in 'Great Room', some newer windows and maple floors.  The property has more than 1500 sq ft of studio/work space. Wood burning stove plus Zoned Forced air heat keeps spaces cozy. Newer kitchen with lots of storage. One bath off bedrm, old schoolhouse half bath for guests.  Loads of options for craftsperson or artist.