The Need for a True Real Estate Professional

A good article for anyone thinking of selling their home.

The Need for a True Real Estate Professional

Common Sense Isn’t Common Practice

I thought this was a good article summarizing how times have changed in the lending arena. Common Sense Isn’t Common Practice

Affordable Florida Family Vacation Offer

I thought I would take a break away from my busy Real Estate business today and share this great opportunity to take the kids to Orlando this year.  Click here for more info and have a great time.

Waiting Until Spring Could Be Very Expensive

Over the last 30 years, many sellers have waited until the spring to sell their homes.  The logic was that demand for homes increased in the spring and therefore you may get a better price for your home.  Demand will again increase this spring.

However, the big difference is that supply will also increase this spring especially as hefty inventories of distressed properties find their way to the market.  Most experts feel that this increase in discounted properties will be greater then any increase in demand thus putting additional downward pressure on prices.  for more information on this, read http://www.kcmblog.com/2011/10/18/house-prices-where-they-will-be-in-the-spring/

If you are in the market to buy and not sell this effects you as well.  Even though prices will soften, that does not mean you should not buy now.  Remember, as a seller you are concerned about PRICE.  As a buyer you are concerned about COST.  The additional costs in obtaining a mortgage in the future may far outweigh any depreciation in value.  You may not believe me so here are some statistics from other sources that might sway you;

Forbes Magazine: The Next Mortgage Crisis
Wall Street Journal: It's Time to Buy That House
MarketWatch.com: Now Might Be the Best Time Ever to Buy a Home

JP Morgan Market Insights: Housing: A Time To Buy

Questions, I am sure there are many . . . .  contact me anytime at 608-354-8107 or starks@firstweber.com

Real Estate Tracks December E-Newsletter

For the Fourth Straight Month, Wisconsin's Monthly Home Sales Outpaced Last Year

To Learn More Read My December Real Estate Tracks Newsletter by Clicking Here

Strong Lure for Prospective Home Buyers

As shared in a recent Wall Street Journal article, "Mortgage rates are a big reason why affordability continues to improve. In 1991, a $1,700 mortgage payment allowed a borrower to take out a $200,000 mortgage. Today, it gets that homeowner a $350,000 loan, a 77% increase in borrowing power, says Dan Green, a loan officer with Waterstone Mortgage"  read more

Spectacular Luxury Dining Rooms

With Thanksgiving almost upon this we are all thinking of Holiday Decorating. Check out these amazing dining rooms on Luxury Homes.

Spectacular Luxury Dining Rooms

Why You Need an Expert – Part II

Why You Need an Expert – Part II

Housing to gradually improve in 2012, NAR economist says

Housing to gradually improve in 2012, NAR economist says

October Housing Report for South Central WI MLS

Year to date data as well as comparisons by month for the Month of October for Dane County and South Central WI are now available. If you have any questions feel free to give me a call.

Click Here to view the October Housing Report

My Madison Wisconsin Luxury Home of the Week

This week I am kicking off a new feature to my blog. My Madison Wisconsin Luxury Home of the Week. This will feature the "best" new luxury home listing from all the listings I review each week. This category is properties in the $700,000 and up range. This week I have selected a lovely Tudor home in Nakoma that has been completely renovated. Enjoy!

Luxury Home of the Week

My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

I scour the MLS every week and bring you my "Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week". If you have any questions please feel free to contact me anytime at 608-354-8107.

My Best Buy of the Week

How To Use Twitter for Your Successful Job Search

Great Article on how to use twitter for a successful job search. My Twitter Job Search

Prices: Where They Have Been and Where They Are Headed

Interested in how much your home has increased in value? Check this out.

Prices: Where They Have Been and Where They Are Headed

Freddie Mac launches Winter REO promotion

Happy Holiays from Freddie Mac! Receive an accepted offer by January 31st and close by March 15, 2012 and receive up to 3% on closing costs. Woo Hoo!! Contact me for details
Freddie Mac launches Winter REO promotion

Taking Reservations for Luxury Portfolio Magazine

Although the next Luxury Portfolio Magazine isn't scheduled for release until March 2012 the deadline for ad submissions is January 2012 and reservations are now beginning. This magazine advertising is just another service I provide for listings priced $750,000 and above.

Luxury Portfolio Distribution includes;

• Luxury Portfolio Internation Members


• Direct Mailed to Luxury Home Enthusiasts


• Sold at Barnes and Noble Newsstands throughout the US


• International Newsstands in 51 Countries


• International First Class Airline Lounges

Total distribution: 85,000 high-net-worth consumers

The PRICE Is the Same, But the COST Is Less

Most financial analysts are saying now is the best time in history to purchase a home. Read the article below for more details.

The PRICE Is the Same, But the COST Is Less

QR Codes Are Making Their Way Into the Holiday Season - PRNewser

Do You Use QR Codes? QR Codes Are Making Their Way Into the Holiday Season - PRNewser

Tips for Selling a Home in the Winter

Thinking of selling your home during the winter. Here are some great tips.

Tips for Selling a Home in the Winter

First Weber the Leader in Luxury Homes Sales in South Central WI

Check out these numbers from the South Central WI MLS. Click Here to view the graph

Only Madison Based Real Estate Firm in the Luxury Portfolio International

First Weber is the only Madison Wisconsin based Real Estate Firm and one of only two Wisconsin based Real Estate firms that lists $1,000,0000+ properties in the Luxury Portfolio International. If you are thinking of selling a luxury home property wouldn't you want your property marketed globally?

Click Here to view our 171 available listings

Looking For A Luxury Home?

Whether you are looking for a Country Estate or an Elegant Penthouse Condo, here are some great options. Enjoy the tour and call with any questions you may have.

Click Here and enjoy my video of these lovely luxury properties.

Sue's Monthly Report November E-Newsletter

Good Afternoon Blog Followers. Here is the early edition of my November E-Newsletter "Sue's Monthly Report" Everyone else will receive their copy on Friday. Enjoy and please feel free to contact me anytime.

CLICK HERE to view the November Early Edition of Sue's Monthly Report

Five Great Thoughts

If you've been on the fence about homeownership, now is the time to take a leap! Don't let the negative press deter you from one of life's greatest joys.

Take a look at five short and sweet reasons that homeownership is great!

1. Equity. When you pay rent, you never see that money again. It is lining the landlord's pocket. Yes, buying a home may come with some hefty initial costs (downpayment, closing costs, inspections), but you will make that money back over time in equity built in the home. Historically, homes appreciate by about 4 to 6 percent a year. Some areas are still experiencing normal appreciation rates. For the areas that have seen harder times since the recession, experts feel that the housing market will recover. Homeownership is about building long-term wealth. A home bought for $10,000 in 1960 is most likely worth 10 times that in today's market.

2. Relationships: Renters tend to see their neighbors come and go quickly. Some people sign year leases while others are in the community for much shorter terms. Apartment complexes also tend to have less common shared space for people to meet, greet, and socialize. Homeowners, however, have yards, walking trails, or community pools and clubhouses where they can get to know each other. Neighbors stay put much longer (at least three to five years if they hope to recoup their closing costs). This means more time to develop relationships. Research has shown that people with healthy relationships have more happiness and less stress.

3. Predictability: Well, as long as you have a fixed-rate term on your mortgage it's predictable. Most people buying homes today know that a fixed-rate is the way to go. This means your payment amount is fixed for the life of the term. If your mortgage payment is $500 today, then it will still be $500 a month in 10 years. This allows for people to budget and make solid financial plans. The sub-prime crisis meant many homeowners with adjustable rate mortgages saw their monthly payments rise and then rise some more. Homeownership, though, generally comes with a predictable table of expenditures. Even the big purchases are predictable. You know most roofs last just 15 years (or so). You know that each year you'll need to pay for the gutters to be cleaned, and so on.

4. Ownership: Okay, this is a given. Homeownership means you "own" your home. That comes with some incredible perks, though! You can renovate, update, paint, and decorate to your heart's desire. You can plant trees, install a pool, expand the patio, or do holiday decorating that would rival the Kranks (if the HOA allows!). The bottom line is this is your home and you can personalize it to your taste. Most renters are stuck with the same beige walls and beige carpet that has been standard apartment decor for 20 years. Now is your chance to let your home speak!

5. Great Deals: It's a great time to buy. Interest rates are at historic lows. We're talking 4.0 percent instead of 6.0 or higher. This means big savings for today's buyers. Home prices have also taken a dip since the recession, which means homes are more affordable than ever. If you have steady income and cash for a downpayment, then be sure to talk to your local real estate agent about what homes in your area could be a fit for you.

Homeownership can be a real joy. It's time to get off the fence and into a home that is right for you!

The Ship Appears to be Turning

Income is at a 2007 level, home prices are at a 2002 level, interest rates are at record lows and rents are going up . . . . . The time to wait is over.

The Ship Appears to be Turning

Madison: Great City, Great Moment

Great Video on Madison. Be a part of the future. Click Here to view the video

Buyers Market . . . Perhaps Not For Long

Today as I was catching up on some reading I found it interesting that for the month of September 2011 in comparison to September 2010 listings were down 21.3% This compares to an increase in sales of 17.7%

As listings continue to dwindle and sales continue to increase we will begin the move from a "Buyers Market" to a "Sellers Market" Perhaps the time to wait is over. Check out the article

CLICK HERE to view monthly MLS housing reports

My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

Every week I scour the MLS to bring you the "Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week"

This week we are in the ever so popular neighborhood of "University Heights" on Madison's Near West Side. This lovely home currently priced $30k below assessment has hardwood floors throughout, a wood burning fireplace in the living room and five bedrooms. All bathrooms are updated. All new windows, large finished lower level. Large master bedroom and a great screened porch. This one is a keeper. Check it out!

CLICK HERE for additional information and to schedule your private tour.

Homeownership: Reports of Its Death are Exaggerated

The DEATH of Homeownership is a FALSE Rumor . . . . good article to check out

Homeownership: Reports of Its Death are Exaggerated

Real Estate as a Longer Term Investment

Real Estate has always been a long term investment. Here is a good chart outlining the process.

Real Estate as a Longer Term Investment

Daylight Savings Time Ends Sunday November 6th

Don't Forget To Turn Your Clocks Back One Hour on Saturday, November 5th. Daylight Savings Time Ends on Sunday, November 6th.

Insurance Anyone?

Here is a good article on the different types of Insurance. If you are in the marketing for an insurance agent, give me a call I have a good referral list.

Insurance Anyone?

Is It Really Time to Buy a Home?

When I bought my home eight years ago it was a pretty quick search. I found a house in my price range, in the schools I wanted and a kid friendly neighborhood. What more did I need. My basic criteria was; price (I did not want to pay more than I was paying in rent), location (I wanted to keep my son in his same school), and kid friendly (I wanted my son to have plenty of friends in the neighborhood to hang out with). Anything over that I could fix or improve myself over time. I found three homes and picked one. Moved a month later and continued on with life.

Many of my buyers are so focused on finding the "perfect home" which you can create and don't necessarily have to buy that life is just passing them by as they spend every night and weekend online looking at homes, visiting open houses and getting more and more frustrated on what to do. Ask yourself, "Why Do I Want To Buy A House?" Then pick two or three things you must have (tops) and go for it. Here is a a great article today on if the time is right.

Is It Really Time to Buy a Home?

When Do You Cut the Price to Sell the Listing?

Often the topic of a price reduction comes up with my sellers. This typically happens after an offer has come and gone that was not exactly what the seller was looking for. The topic of price reduction comes up with activity has slowed down. Quite often this price reduction can be below the "passed by" offer amount. This article does a very nice job of outlining when it is appropriate to think about a price reduction.

Remember, the 1st offer is typically always the best offer. Enjoy the article.

When Do You Cut the Price to Sell the Listing?

How To Sell Your Home

Selling your home in today's market is tough. The facts speak very loud. I will be sharing a number of reasons over the next few weeks why Sue Stark and First Weber Group just makes sense. For today's post;

This is why you want to use Sue Stark and First Weber

It’s Simple: Now Is the Time to Buy a Home

Thinking of buying a home. Here is an article you should read.

It’s Simple: Now Is the Time to Buy a Home

LIKE my facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/suestarkrealestate

and receive a limited time FREE OFFER.

Renters Spending 5% More Than Home Owners

If you are currently renting and thinking you are saving money you may want to read this article. With rates this low and inventories still high now is the best time to start that home search. There are loan programs available for low down payments. Give me a call anytime for information.

Renters Spending 5% More Than Home Owners

Is Your Home Winter-Proof?

The temperatures are dropping and you know what is coming if you lived in Wisconsin. Here is a good list of things to take care of now while there is still time.

Is You Home Winter-Proof?

Underwater Refinance Program Expanded

If you wanted to refinance right now due to the low rates but your property has lost some value this might be of some interest to you. If you have questions feel free to contact me anytime at 608-354-8107.

Underwater Refinance Program Expanded

Do You Qualify for 100% Federal VA Loan?

Here is a great website to get all your questions answered on the Federal VA loan program. When you are ready to start searching for that perfect home give me a call anytime

Federal VA Loan Program Information Site

First Weber the #1 Leader in Real Estate - Check the facts

As we move into the last quarter of 2011 I am reflecting on the many success's this year. Amazingly as I talk to people there are some of you out there that do not realize that First Weber Group is the leader in Real Estate production for South Central WI. Not being one to not share the love I thought I would share this graph supplied with data from the South Central WI MLS as a picture is worth a 1000 words.

Questions, contact me anytime I would love to connect with you.

January - December 2010 sales data (annualized data is available by March of the preceding year)

Wishing you could purchase a home now and participate in the currently low rates but struggling with a down-payment? Were you aware that Dane County, The City of Madison and the Wisconsin Realtors Association all have down payment assistance programs. You may qualify. Contact me today for details at 608-354-8107 or email me at starks@firstweber.com

Sellers: Letting Go

Often when my clients are putting their house up for sale the thought of leaving a familiar neighborhood and neighbors can be unsettling. Instead focus on your new beginnings. This is a great article that outlines just that

Sellers: Letting Go.

My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

Every week I will scour the MLS for “My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week”

This week it is all about Location Location Location! This lovely updated Old World Two Story on Kendall, just a 10 minutes walk to the UW is my featured "Best Buy of the Week". This three bedroom charmer with new windows and a private lot is sure to capture your attention at only $285,000 CLICK HERE for more information

Will Spring Bring a Triple Dip?

The unimaginable is now a possibility. According to the latest forecast by one of the nation\'s leading housing data providers, by the end of the first quarter next year, the nation\'s average home prices could sink below the lowest levels reached earlier this last year, when prices set a new record low.

via Will Spring Bring a Triple Dip?

Renters Outspend Owners on Housing

Renters now spend five percent more of their household budgets on housing costs than do homeowners, and the difference is growing as rents rise.

via Renters Outspend Owners on Housing.

Lure to Foreign Buyers: Buy a Home, Get a Visa?

If you are an International Investor check this out Lure to Foreign Buyers: Buy a Home, Get a Visa?.

The Million Dollar Question These Days . . . . Rent vs Buy

Are you currently renting but hoping to buy one day . . . . this arcticle on Rent vs Buy may be of some interest. Read more

House Prices: Where They Will Be in the Spring

Disclaimer: This blog covers the national housing market as a whole. Please check with a local real estate professional to discover how the following information will impact your region. – The KCM Crew Many sellers want to wait until the

via House Prices: Where They Will Be in the Spring.

Madison Real Estate Newsletter "Real Estate Tracks" October Edition

Check out my latest "Real Estate Tracks" newsletter

2011 September Home Sales Report - Wisconsin REALTORS® Association

2011 September Home Sales Report - Wisconsin REALTORS® Association.

Monthly Payments for Home Buyers Not Much Different than 30 Years Ago

With today's low interest rates the average mortgage payment is not much more than it was 30 years ago.

Check this article out, I think you will be very surprised!

Payments for Home Buyers.

My Madison Real Estate Resource October Housing Report

Here is an early release of my October Real Estate Report for all my website and social media followers. #madison #real estate #bestbuy #livinginmadison #suestark Enjoy!

October Newsletter

My Madison Real Estate Resource October 2011 Newsletter

[caption id="attachment_559" align="alignleft" width="500" caption="Tips for Selling Your Home Before the End of the Year"][/caption]

My Madison Real Estate Resource October 2011 Newsletter

13,780 homes sold yesterday in this country. 13,780 homes will selltoday.

Click Here to check out October's Report. If you are at all thinking about putting your

home on the market contact Sue Stark at 608-354-8107 or starks@firstweber.com

My Madison Wisconsin Area Best Buy of the Week

This week we are visiting the lovely community of Oregon just a very short drive just south of the Hwy 12/18.

Oregon is a village in Dane County, Wisconsin, United States. The population was 7,514 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Madison Metropolitan Statistical Area and is a suburb of Madison. The village is located mostly within the Town of Oregon.

In 2011, Oregon was voted as one of the Top 100 'Best Places to Live' by CNN Money.

Visit My Best Buy of the Week in Oregon, WI

2nd Qtr 2011 Madison Area Market Report

The National Association of Realtors "NAR" Research produces a series of Local Market Reports (LMRs) which provide insights into the fundamentals and direction of the nation's largest metropolitan housing markets. Each report evaluates a number of factors affecting home prices, including:

• The health of the local job market


• Foreclosure rates


• Housing inventory


• Debt-to-income and mortgage-servicing-costs-to-income ratios

Some Notes on Data Usage

NAR Research uses a variety of data sources in preparing the LMRs.

• Housing Price and Sales Statistics - The National Association of REALTORS®


• Labor statistics - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Establishment and Household Surveys)


• Housing Permits Data - U.S. Census Bureau


• Foreclosure Data - Mortgage Bankers' Association of America (MBAA)


• State Economic Index - Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia

Click Here to view the report

Housing Affordability

Housing affordability will be at its highest in a generation this year.

The affordability index is comprised of median home prices, median family income, and the prevailing mortgage rate. An index of 100 implies that a median income family has just enough income to buy a median priced home. An index of 120 implies that a median income family has 20 percent more income than is necessary to buy a median priced home. The index reached an all-time high (since the data creation in 1970) of 174 in 2010. This year, it looks to surpass 180. The rising affordability is a combination of lower home prices, record low mortgage rates, and a slight rise in family income.





In short, there hasn’t been a better home buying opportunity in 40 years.

However, not all people have the necessary confidence to make a major expenditure like a home purchase in an uncertain economic environment. More importantly, the underwriting standards are overly stringent. Those who are currently able to get conforming mortgages have an average credit score of 760. Under normal underwriting standards (and not the lax underwriting of the bubble years), credit scores would be closer to 720 on conforming mortgages. For FHA mortgages, today’s borrowers have an average credit score of 700, compared to historic FHA borrowers who had an average credit score of 660. If the underwriting standards were just to return to normal then there could be an additional 15 to 20 percent increase in home buying activity.

Banks have plentiful cash reserves but are unwilling to lend. They are blaming the regulators, saying extra cash holding is needed in case of another catastrophic economic event and because the banks are uncertain about future regulatory rules. Under these circumstances any additional attempts by the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates via another third round of Quantitative Easing (QE3) and printing more money would be inconsequential to the housing market. All the while, printing money could pose higher inflation risks in the not-too-distant future. Simply getting the excess cash holdings held by the banks out to the borrowers will be the true, natural stimulus for the economy.

Selling Your Home? This market is a Price War and a Beauty Contest!

It’s a highly competitive market for home sellers right now. More homes to compete with means that the impression your homes makes - from the curb, and on the inside - matter now more than ever. You can increase your chances of selling faster - and at today’s top dollar - by investing in a select few home improvement projects that have been shown to make a big impact on buyers.

Bad news alert: it might cost you a little time, effort and cash. The good news, though, is that the best projects for quickly increasing your home’s resale value tend to be cosmetic and fairly simple and inexpensive to do. Here are five projects with big-time return on investment for home sellers-to-be, in terms of their power to attract buyers, and to attract dollars from those buyers.

1. Painting: Adding a fresh coat of paint to ceilings and walls is a tried and true way to increase your home’s appeal to buyers. Go for white or neutral tones that help lighten your rooms. (Now is not the time to show off your fascination with fuschia and lime green.) Buyers will have an easier time envisioning how they will infuse their own personalities into your home if they’re looking at a relatively blank slate.

Painting lightens and brightens rooms, instantly removes scuffs and dings and gives every room a fresh, polished feel.

Fresh exterior paint - even if your time or cash budget limits your efforts to accents like eaves, shutters, doors and trims - is also a quick, inexpensive way to polish the look of your home from the curb.

2. Landscaping: Everything you’ve heard about curb appeal is true. First impressions matter - especially if your house is one of eight or nine a buyer has seen in one day. Buyers will be more excited to look at the inside your home if the outside looks clean, charming and inviting. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, pull the weeds and plant some flowers, bushes or shrubs for the biggest impact - and be diligent about keeping your landscaping very well-manicured throughout the time your home is on the market.

Be sure to keep it low-key, relatively low maintenance and neutral, though. This is not the time to indulge your personal fantasies of living in an exotic paradise, unless that matches the existing look and feel of your home, nor is it the time to install a time-intensive English garden that buyers will love, but not want to take on. Think clean, simple and elegant for the biggest boost in value.

3. Cleaning and de-cluttering: Start by removing all your family photos from the walls and all sorts of tchochkes and clutter from the tops of tables, desks, dressers and counters. Buyers want to be able to envision their lives in the house, not yours. Personal items - and the visual clutter they create - have been shown time and time again to block buyers’ ability to create this vision.

Also, remember that buyers are coming to see the house and evaluate its space, not to bear witness to all the fabulous furniture that means so much to you (no matter how amazing your personal taste). Remove furniture that takes up too much space and fills up rooms. Get rid of clutter such as clothes, boxes, piles of mail and other items.

And then clean - and keep cleaning obsessively, the entire time your place is on the market. Kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms should look unlived in when they are shown. And don't forget to clean less obvious places like windows, walls, doors and and floors, to dust off shelves and furniture, and to polish appliances.

4. Plumbing repairs and water stain/damage repair: Paying a plumber to make a few stops throughout your home can be well worth the investment. Leaky faucet in the master bathroom? Get it fixed. Does the space under your kitchen sink look like a science experiment? Leaks and water stains definitely provoke disgust and exasperation on the part of the buyers you want and need to impress. And they can be pretty cost effective to fix - ask your agent for a referral, if you need one.

5. Staging: Staging your home can make a dramatic difference in the price for which your home sells. Good staging is equal parts:

(a) removing your personal belongings and replacing it with more artwork, decor and cleaner-looking furniture,

(b) and tweaking the home’s paint, wall coverings and even landscaping to show the place in its very best light.

When done well, staging can convert your home from just another listing on a buyer’s list to the setting for a fresh, new start to the fresh, new life of their dreams. Professional stagers, in particular, have special skills and materials they use, from convincing you to get rid of a bunch of things you value (but read: junk to a buyer), to items like mirrors, plants, art work, lamps, pillows and even furniture that tells a visual story of the life buyers can fantasize about living in your home.

Talk to your agent about staging - some agents have the skill to do this on their own, while others might have a professional stager they frequently work with.

In some cases, you might want to take on even larger projects. Before you go that route, talk with a local real estate agent; they are well-positioned to know what sort of updates and features will make the most impact on local buyers. Not all major, non-cosmetic upgrades to your home will create a significant difference in the price it commands, so take advantage of your agent’s expertise as you make decisions about whichproperty preparation investments to make (and which to forego).

Selling? Waiting Until the Spring Makes No Sense

• Late last year, banks were warned that they needed to guarantee that the paperwork necessary to start a foreclosure process on a family was both accurate and complete. Since then, the banks have slowed down the foreclosure process while they re-examined their procedures. They are now confident that all the required documentation is in order. We are currently waiting on a settlement between the banks and the state attorneys general which will establish what penalties will be assessed.

Once this settlement is reached, the banks will again move forward on many homes which are currently stalled at some stage in the foreclosure process.

How many homes are we talking about?

There are millions of homes in this category. Calculated Risk quantified the situation:

“There are a large number of seriously delinquent mortgage loans in limbo waiting for this settlement. According to LPS, at the end of August there were about 1.87 million loans seriously delinquent and another 2.15 million loans in the foreclosure process. This is only down slightly from a year ago when 4.4 million loans were seriously delinquent or in-foreclosure. Once the settlement is reached, the pace of foreclosures will pick up sharply.

The pace will “pick up sharply”.

Bottom Line

As more foreclosures come to the market at discounted prices, there will be greater downward pressure on all housing values. Waiting for the spring selling season to put your house on the market may not make sense this year. The increase in demand may be overshadowed by an increased supply of distressed properties.

Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

Check out this great 3 bdrm, 1.5 bath two story in Valley Ridge. Finished exposed lower level. New flooring, freshly painted, new furnace. Master bathroom suite has large walk-in closet and dual sink vanity. Home Warranty included for your piece of mind. All this for only $199,900.

Click Here for more info

2011 August Home Sales Report - Wisconsin REALTORS® Association

2011 August Home Sales Report - Wisconsin REALTORS® Association.

Tips for Selling Your Home Before the End of the Year

[caption id="attachment_559" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Tips for Selling Your Home Before the End of the Year"][/caption]

The fourth quarter of the year can cause some sellers to worry if their home hasn't sold yet. But according to Trulia.com, there is still time to sell.

Typically, many buyers are eager to move and get settled in before the school year and holidays begin but that doesn't mean you should be discouraged.

In fact, there are some key factors that may help sell your home. First remember that the number of buyers may be reduced as we head closer to the holidays. Many people simply don't want to juggle the holiday rush and house hunting.

On the other hand, there will be some serious buyers looking for a very nice holiday gift for themselves. If they're out shopping in dreary weather or nearing the holidays, it could be because they're extremely serious about making a purchase before the end of the year. With this in mind, be sure to make the most of every showing. Don't let things slide with the upkeep of your home because you are juggling selling a home, working, or taking care of the kids. Selling your home in the fourth quarter must be a priority and the closer to the beginning of the quarter the better.

When considering how long to keep your home listed through the holidays, experts suggest looking at the rates of sales activity in your market. Some areas can be pretty bleak, but that doesn't necessarily mean there's no chance of selling. Remember, that some people may even have tax reasons and need to purchase before the end of the year.

Expert staging of your home will suit you well. This is a time of year when homeowners bring out a lot of stuff that may be very appealing to them–pumpkins, turkeys, holiday and religious ornaments–but those things don't always impress buyers. In fact, they can annoy them and make the house seem cluttered. This is not to say you can't have some nice seasonally appropriate decor. However, the fourth-quarter sale requires a good strategy like using an expert stager. If there are a a reduced number of buyers seeing your home, make the most of each showing by having a spectacularly staged and clutter-free house to show off. Staging provides a competitive advantage.

Another reason this fourth quarter may see more buyers is that interest rates remain historically low. The potential threat of a rise in mortgage rates could have more buyers eager to lock into an excellent rate, even if it means a move during the holidays.

However, you can also negotiate the sale and make arrangements so that you can still stay in your home for the holidays and make the move after the first of the year. Another effect of the holidays, buyers tend to be more emotional and may spend more during this time of year. Couple that with potentially fewer homes on the market and you may have the perfect setting for an ideal sale.

Stop Renting and Buy While Homes are Most Affordable

If you're currently renting and have dreamed of owning a home, now may be the perfect time. Trulia.com is reporting that during the month of July, buying was cheaper than renting in 74% of the country's 50 largest cities.

However, in 12% of the cities, such as New York, Seattle, and San Francisco, you could rent a place for less than you could buy one. And in the rest of the cities (14%), it was about even, with renting being only slightly less than the cost of buying.

What's tipping the scale to make buying cheaper than renting? Of course, it's the declining home prices and historically low interest rates are also helping to encourage home buying. Recently, interest rates for 30-year and 15-year fixed have been hovering near 4%. Also, the increased demand for rental units is pushing rents up, making now a good time to buy as purchasing a home is cheaper than renting one in most major U.S. cities.

This is making purchasing a home enticing for those who are planning to stay for several years and have the ability to put down a downpayment of about 20 percent.

Where are the hot buying markets? Las Vegas tops the list. The S&P/Case-Shiller home price index, as reported by CNNMoney.com, shows that prices "have plunged more than 59% from their August 2006 peak."

Other markets where buying beats renting include Detroit, Michigan; Mesa, Arizona; and Fresno, California. All of these are places where the cost of a median price condo/townhouse is approximately seven times annual rent.

And as reported by CNNMoney.com, Arlington, Texas; Sacramento, California; Phoenix, Arizona; and Jacksonville, Florida, "all had buy-rent ratios of eight," according to Trulia.

New York is the highest city to rent a home (of the 50 markets surveyed). And to buy in that city would cost about 36 times as much, pushing the purchase price to about a million dollars.

If you're renting now and wondering is this the right time, it really depends on your particular circumstances. Timing the real estate market is never a perfect science. However, the indicators are strong that if you can afford to buy, today's market certainly offers many good opportunities.

Here are a few things to consider to help you make your decision.

The first is the length of time you'll stay in the home. Moves are costly and purchasing a home requires extra cash for commissions and closing costs. So, if you're not sure you can stay for a while, postponing buying might be the right choice. However, if you've been in your rental for a long time and have roots in your city, there are great deals on homes. It might be the right time for you to start paying your own mortgage instead of paying your landlord's mortgage.

How much downpayment? This is a critical concern. With stricter lending requirements, having cash to put down is a make-or-break factor in purchasing a home. Buyers often have to come up with 20% and that can be a big chunk (or even all) of a person's savings. Also, note that the money usually has to be "seasoned". In other words, the downpayment money can't just suddenly appear in your savings account only days before you decide to buy a home. Ask your real estate agent and loan officer for more details.

The cost of owning a home. Part of the thrill of owning a home is the fact that you own it. That means you're responsible for everything inside and out. Of course, planned developments and Homeowner's Associations may cover some of the outside maintenance but then you'll be paying monthly fees. When considering whether to buy or rent, one of the things many first-time buyers neglect to think about is the cost of maintenance. When appliances break; you, the homeowner, will pay to fix them. No more landlord or apartment manager to the rescue. So, if you think things through and weigh the cost of rent versus the cost of buying, you may find the cost and the increased responsibility are well worth it because along with homeownership comes the pride of making your home yours exactly as you like it.

Rates Stay Low, BUT Will Costs Go Up?

Great article by Dean Hartman on September 22, 2011

We are enjoying extremely low interest rates, for sure. With the global economy, the national economy and unemployment where they are, no one is predicting a dramatic change in rates any time soon. BUT, on Monday, the Obama Administration floated out some interesting proposals they are considering through the Acting Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), Edward DeMarco. It appears that two significant changes in housing financing are on the table.

You should know that FHFA is the new regulator that is overseeing the restoration of viability of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. They are charged with reducing the risk on loans delivered to the GSEs in order to protect the U.S. taxpayer.

In a speech this past Monday, Mr. DeMarco mentioned two potential changes:

Increasing the role of the private sector to lessen the risk held by the public sector.

The method mentioned was increasing the insurance coverages assumed by the PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) companies. One result could be higher insurance rates for loans where customers put less than 20% down. The second wrinkle is potentially more damaging…the idea that PMI coverage may be required on loans with 21%-25% (maybe even 30%) down! Clearly, this is an attempt to get more fee income to the MI companies to entice them to remain viable and continue to serve those with less than 20% down. Regardless, the net result is that more people will have to pay more money for private mortgage insurance. “How much?” and “To what extent?” is yet to be defined; however, more costs to more people is bad.

Adjusting fees.

Recognize that the GSEs charge fees. Explaining what they are and why they exist is a topic for a different day. Suffice to say, today, fees are fairly standard geographically speaking. Mr. DeMarco is talking about adjusting the fees (i.e., increasing them) for areas that have proven more risky. This proposal means the hardest hit areas will have the most difficult time recovering because the increased fees always get passed on to the consumer. Rather than “spread the risk”, FHFA is talking about punishing the defenseless.

The predictable outcome of these “strategies” is higher costs to the consumer which makes buying a home more expensive. As costs go up, desire to buy goes down (as does the borrower’s ability to be approved for a mortgage).

Message: Buy sooner rather than later!

Enjoy The Fall Colors

Fall is right around the corner. Click Here for The Fall Colors Report

Getting Your Home Sold

While certain tips like properly staging your space will help get your home sold no matter what the economic climate, picking a talented real estate agent is one of the most crucial assets in getting your home sold fast and for the right price.

During the summer this is especially important to consider because buyers and sellers are less available due to vacations and kids being home on summer break. If you don’t have a dedicated agent you might not receive the customer service needed to get your sale closed.

Many agents are thriving in today’s market, so an easy way to find someone well qualified is to do some research- who is winning awards in your area and what are they doing to differentiate themselves from the competition? If you know someone that has recent bought or sold a home ask them for advice, or even a referral.

Before hiring your agent ask: What was your most challenging sale, what made it so difficult, and how did you ultimately get the home sold? This will tell you if the agent has experience and if they have the tools necessary to get your home sold.

Also, get realistic comps and price your home accordingly. If your home and a similar home across the street are on the market do something to differentiate yours from theirs whether it be lowering the price or putting some extra time, and perhaps a little money, into staging it properly.

Don’t take offense if you get an offer that is low, make a counter-offer. Let go of the emotion you’ve invested in your home. Be detached, using a business-like manner in your negotiations. You’ll definitely have an advantage over those who get caught up emotionally in the situation.

Ultimately, the best way to get your home sold in any economy is to know the market, work hard, and be realistic. By carefully choosing the right agent or team to make the sale you are setting yourself up for quick success.

By Chobee Hoy

My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

This week I am featuring this lovely listing in Nakoma at 4105 Yuma Dr. This 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Cape Cod in the heart of one of Madison’s finest neighborhoods is as move-in ready as it gets! Beautiful hardwood floors throughout, remodeled kitchen with custom cabinets & solid surface counters. Beautiful 1940’s built-ins & trim as well as arched entries. 2 fireplaces. Formal dining. Inviting finished lower level with fireplace & wet bar. Spacious screened porch ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining! Nicely landscaped fenced yard with patio completes the package. This poplular location makes this home a tour you do not want to miss!

Additional Information

Sue's Monthly Real Estate Report for September 2011

Here is an early release of my September Real Estate Report for all my website and social media followers. #madison #real estate #bestbuy #livinginmadison #suestark Enjoy!

September Edition - Sue's Monthly Real Estate Report

My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week

Every week I will scour the MLS for “My Madison Wisconsin Best Buy of the Week”

This week I am featuring an adorable ranch home in the popular Madison West neighborhood of Valley Ridge. This REO property is in amazing condition and less than 10 years old. Priced at only $184,900 this is an amazing opportunity to purchase in this great family friendly neighborhood.

Click Here for more details

5 Great Reasons Why Now Is The Time To Sell

Great article today from KCM. 5 Great Reasons to Sell Your House Today
http://kcmblog.com/2011/09/06/5-great-reasons-t-sell-your-house-today-2/

Have You Considered an FHA 203k Loan?

Many times when I am showing older homes that are in need of updating, kitchens, baths, flooring, lighting, you know the drill buyers walk away overwhelmed by what needs to be done and how to get the cash to do it. Many people are not familiar with the FHA 203k loan which allows a buyer to finance these types of repairs. Here is a great article today on the possibilities of an FHA 203k loan. Call today for lenders in your area.

FHA 203k Financing

Buying A Home? Take This Free Video Credit Course

Here below is a series of videos that will teach you what you need to know about getting your credit in shape for a home purchase.

Please feel free to share these videos with a friend who currently owns or is looking to own a home.

Staying out of credit trouble can have a big impact on your financial help for years to come!

Credit Course Video 1

Credit Course Video 2

Credit Course Video 3

Credit Course Video 4

Credit Course Video 5

Credit Course Video 6

Credit Course Video 7

Negotiating Rules (7 Videos)

In the series of videos below you'll learn about 7 rules to follow when negotiating your next home purchase.

These are:

• Never Put Your Best Offer First


• Develop a good relationship with the cooperating agent


• Know when to walk away


• Know what the seller wants


• Know your market


• Get A Home Inspection


• Ask For it!

These rules are outlined in the 7 videos below...

Negotiating Rules 1

Negotiating Rules 2

Negotiating Rules 3

Negotiating Rules 4

Negotiating Rules 5

Negotiating Rules 6

Negotiating Rules 7

Get Preapproved

Before you even start shopping for a home, you'll want to be sure you have financing in place to make your purchase.

Getting a "pre-approval" from a reputable lender is one of the first steps in your home shopping process.

Watch this video for more details:

5 Reasons To Use A Real Estate Agent

Working with a true real estate professional comes with a lot of advantages over trying to go it alone.

By working with a pro you'll get:

• Someone with Market Knowledge who can help you navigate existing inventory and get you a good deal


• Someone with the industry contacts to help you through a pain free transaction


• To save time! You'll save time making common newbie mistakes. Plus you'll be able to quickly focus in on properties fitting your unique criteria


• A 3rd Party Buffer when it comes time to negotiate. You won't want too many emotions involved here -- having a buffer could make you lots of $$$

Rent To Own Video Course

With all the uncertainty in the real estate markets these days, a lot of folks are choosing Rent To Own as a strategy for acquiring their next home.

The following video course details what you need to know about the Rent To Own Lease Purchase process.

3 Things To Consider Before Doing A Rent To Own

Your Rent To Own Checklist

3 Truths About Rent To Own

3 Ways To Prepare for A Rent To Own Purchase

4 Keys To Finding A Good Rent To Own Opportunity

Who Is Responsible For What In A Rent To Own

Your Down Payment & Security Deposit

What To Know Before Buying Your Next Fixer Upper

If you're looking to buy a fixer upper here are some rules to follow:

• Pick the right location!


• Know Your Stuff


• Make sure you consider the time and cost associated with doing a rehab


• What are your financing options?

4 Keys To Saving For Your Future Home

In this video we explore some things to consider when you're getting ready to save for your next home purchase.

Make A Wise Real Estate Purchase (Video)

In this video we explore some tips for making a wise real estate purchase.

• Save For A Big Down Payment


• Don't Overextend Yourself


• Consider the Work Involved


• Really Shop Around