Maggie's Dog Blog

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T16:39:00.000-06:00

We have so much to be thankful for right now. My mom had a baby boy, Thatcher Jeffrey, on 11-11-11. We're now a family of five......me, my mom, my dad and sister.....life is good!

No Rise in Home Prices Until 2020: Bankers

2011-10-02T21:14:00.000-05:00

Home prices are unlikely to recover before 2020 and mortgage defaults will persist for years, says a survey of bank risk managers out Friday.

Fuse | Getty Images

The survey conducted by the Professional Risk Managers’ International Association for FICO, found that 49 percent of respondents do not expect housing prices to rise back to 2007 levels for another nine years. Only 21 percent of respondents said they would.

The findings, which authors called “a decidedly pessimistic outlook”, are a sharp reversal from cautious optimism the survey respondents expressed late last year and in early 2011.

In addition, 73 percent of surveyed bankers say they expect mortgage defaults to remain elevated for at least another five years. And 46 percent believe mortgage delinquencies will increase over the next six months.

Only 15 percent of respondents expect mortgage delinquencies to decline during that period.

“While the housing sector will almost certainly gain strength during the next nine years, many bankers clearly believe prices will remain depressed for half a generation,” said Andrew Jennings, chief analytics officer at FICO.

Bankers concerns spread beyond the housing market.

A large number of respondents says they also expect to see an uptick in delinquencies on auto loans, credit cards and student loans.

Small businesses are expected to continue face a challenging credit environment. More than one-third of respondents forecast an increase in delinquencies on small business loans.

Bankers also appear to be pessimistic about recovery in consumer spending, with 64 percent of respondents expecting credit card usage to remain below pre-recession levels for at least five more years.

Half of the respondents expect credit card balances to increase over the next six months, due to higher spending by some households and smaller monthly payments by others.

Housing Starts, Permits Slip in July

2011-08-16T10:23:00.000-05:00

Housing starts fell less than expected in July as builders broke ground on new multifamily units likely to meet demand for rental apartments, while permits for future construction dropped, a government report showed on Tuesday.

The Commerce Department said housing starts slipped 1.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 604,000 units. June's starts were revised down to a 613,000-unit pace from a previously reported 629,000 unit rate.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast housing starts to slow to a 600,000-unit rate. Compared to July last year, residential construction was up 9.8 percent.

A bloated inventory of unsold homes and a weak economy are weighing down on the housing market, whose collapse was the main catalyst of the 2007-09 recession. A large foreclosure pipeline also is not helping, leaving builders with little incentive to break ground on new projects.

Sentiment among home builders was steady at low levels in August, a survey showed on Monday, but they were pessimistic about sales over the next six months.

But demand for rentals, as Americans shun homeownership because of plummeting home prices and a 9.1 percent jobless rate, is stemming further declines in home construction.

Last month, housing starts for multi-family homes rose 7.8 percent to a 179,000-unit rate, and groundbreaking for projects with five or more units was the highest since January. Single-family home construction -- which accounts for a large portion of the market - dropped 4.9 percent to a 425,000-unit pace.

New building permits fell 3.2 percent to a 597,000-unit pace last month. Economists had expected overall building permits in July to fall to a 605,000-unit pace.

Permits were dragged down by a 10.2 percent drop in the multi-family segment. Permits to build single-family homes rose 0.5 percent.

New home completions increased 11.8 percent to 636,000 units in July, the highest since June 2010.

Oshkosh Neighbor Works Alert

2011-06-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Those of you in the first two targeted areas of the east side — Washington Avenue from Broad to Bowen streets and Mount Vernon Street from Parkway to Oxford avenues — mark Saturday, June 11, on your calendars. It's a "dump day" to get rid of some of the junk in the area and start getting neighbors working together. We hope it goes well and people get behind the effort! Jeff Bollier~Oshkosh Northwestern

Happy Easter

2011-04-22T20:33:00.000-05:00

From my family to yours, I hope you have a blessed Easter.
Tifani

Pier Registration Deadline Is April 1, 2011

2011-03-18T14:12:00.001-05:00

Waterfront property owners with larger piers must register their piers with the DNR by April 1, 2011 to ensure their piers will be "grandfathered" from new size limits adopted by the State of Wisconsin in 2004.

Generally, a pier will need to be registered if it (a) is wider than 6 ft, but less than 8 ft in width, (b) has a platform at the end of the pier that has a surface area of less than 300 ft (w/ a max. width of 10 feet) and/or (c) more than 2 boat slips for the first 50 feet of shoreline frontage and 1 boat slip for each additional 50 feet of shoreline frontage.
To register a pier, a waterfront property owner must complete and mail a registration form to the DNR. To obtain a copy of the registration form and to find out more information about which piers need to be registered, please visit the DNR's website at:
http://dnr.wi.gov/waterways/recreation/piers.html

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-02-14T10:13:00.000-06:00

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Oshkosh accepting applications for loans

2011-02-02T16:08:00.000-06:00

Okay, I'm mad. My mom is a slave driver! I mean, seriously?!?! The woman just starts back to work and expects me to get blogging again right away!!!! I have enjoyed my break and kind of wanted to ease back into this between naps......but nnnnnnooooooo.

Well fortunately there is much to be discussed. I thought I would pass along this great article I found in the Oshkosh Northwestern. Please let my mom know if she can show you any homes.....she'd love to PLUS it would get her out of my hair!!!

    "Eligible homeowners are encouraged to apply for the city's owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program.
     The program offers a zero percent deferred interest loan that is available to low and moderate-income single-family property owners with the Oshkosh city limits. Loans may be used for roofing, plumbing, electrical, furnaces, painting and general repairs.
     Interested homeowners must complete an application and be approved before any work is done. The annual gross household income may not exceed-per household size: one, $38,300; two, $43,800; three, $49,250; four, $54,700; five, $59,100; and six, $63,500. Larger households should call the planning office for income limits.

The application deadline is March 15th. Contact the Planning Division at (920) 236-5059."

Yep, it's true....it's FINALLY over!

2011-01-26T13:15:00.002-06:00

It's FINALLY over.....my maternity leave that is!

I am back to work full time after the birth of my little girl, Evangeline Salome.
If I can be of any assistance helping you, or someone you know, buy or sell a home, please don't hesitate to contact me.

I hope your year has started out wonderfully!

Go Packers!!!!

Tifani

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2010-12-23T17:45:00.003-06:00

I hope you have a blessed Christmas and wonderful start to the New Year.

God bless,

Tifani and family

Time to Give Thanks

2010-11-10T12:00:00.004-06:00

November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving. We give thanks for the people in our lives, the things we have, our health, family, friends and so much more.

This month Tifani wants to help you ‘give thanks’ to the special people in your life.
Nominate another family, couple, close friend or relative to receive a $50 gift certificate to enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant in the Fox Valley. Tell Tifani why you are thankful for them.

The story that is picked will be posted in Tifani’s next e-newsletter and on Maggie’s Dog Blog located on Tifani’s website www.TifaniAndCompany.com.

All stories must be submitted by November 24th to qualify. You can send all entries to Tifani@TifaniAndCompany.com.

Happy Thanksgiving all November from Tifani And Company

Guess What?!?!

2010-09-19T13:37:00.003-05:00

My mom and dad gave me a baby sister! My sister was born on September 4th and her name is Evangeline Salome. I love her so much! My mom is taking some time off to spend with me and my baby sister but she will be back soon enough.

I love my sister!

Yeah, yeah...I know...back to work

2010-08-04T18:02:00.003-05:00

Okay, I know I've been quiet since my birthday but I needed a break people! I was driven to the brink by my mother who was working non-stop. After the credits ended, things dramatically quieted down, which has been a blessing of sorts. I've gotten to rest up a bit, hit the lake with my mom and dad and visit with a lot of family. Fun times.

My mom said it's time to get back to work now. Seeing that real estate is still very quiet even though interest rates are at their lowest point in years, I've got to keep helping my mom market, market, market.

My mom and I are always trying to come up with new ways to advertise her homes. She already uses Facebook, Twitter, an enewsletter and several magazines but she's on the lookout for something new and creative. Any ideas?

If you have any creative tips or ideas on how my mom can further advertise her homes please let me know and I'll pass them along to her. You can email me at Tifani@TifaniAndCompany.com.

Have a great week everyone and I'll be back soon!

Happy Birthday to ME!!!!!

2010-06-20T20:32:00.002-05:00

Well guess what?!?!? Saturday was my 10th birthday! I got to go to Lucy's Closet in Neenah and get a birthday treat! I had the best day ever!

Now that it's all over.....

2010-05-10T13:06:00.002-05:00

In a way, I'm really glad that these buyer/seller credits are over. Daddy and I rarely saw mommy. She worked a lot and sold a lot of homes. Her buyers and sellers are really happy. Now I'm really happy to have mommy home for longer than a few hours a day! Time to get some rest........

Buyers Rush to Meet Tax Credit Deadline

2010-04-21T20:23:00.001-05:00

With only seven days left for buyers and sellers to utilize the tax credits my mom is running around like a mad woman trying to match her clients with homes. There's still time to find a house. Just give my mom a call! She'd be happy to help.

I miss her though....'sniff, sniff'.

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers Rush to Meet Tax Credit Deadline

It's National Open House weekend this weekend!

2010-04-09T16:58:00.005-05:00

With only 21 days left to utilize the first time homebuyer credit, it will be a fantastic weekend to get out to as many open houses as you can. What a better weekend to do that this weekend...National Open House Weekend! My mom is doing open houses both Saturday and Sunday! Come visit her!

Check out the article below for more information!

'National Open House Weekend' pushes tax credits, home ownership

Posted using ShareThis

Happy Easter!

2010-03-30T08:44:00.002-05:00

I want to wish you all a very blessed Easter! Just remember that there are only 32 days to utilize the tax credit...call my mom, she'd be happy to help you!

I wonder what the Easter Bunny is going to bring me this year????

Housing Experts Say Real Estate is Recovering

2010-03-15T15:33:00.002-05:00

Well I'm not sure if you knew but I've been pretty sick lately (the picture is of poor me at the doctor's office). I've been to the doctor three times in a period of weeks and am not real thrilled with where they put the thermometer. I'm really hoping that I don't have to go back. I think I'm on the road to recovery though....just like the housing market from what I'm hearing! My mom is thrilled, my dad is getting very thin from not having anything to eat for dinner because mommy's always gone at night (I think she does this on purpose so she doesn't have to cook) and I'm resting...strict orders from that mean ole' doctor. This is what I'm hearing...

Some of the nation's top economists believe the housing market has turned and better days are on the way for the housing industry.

Increase in jobs, credit, and affordable homes will overcome impediments such as rising interest rates, and the expiration of the Federal stimulus program to push the housing market towards recovery, says Dean Maki, chief U.S. economist for Barclays Capital.

"I would be even odds that we're at a bottom and that we're going to see improvement in the coming months," says Karl Case, co-creator of the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index and a professor of economics at Wellesley College.

"The underlying trend is turning positive," says Bruce Kasman, a chief economist at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Source: Bloomberg, Kathleen M. Howley and Rich Miller (3/15/2010)

Buyers Who Wait May Lose a Lot

2010-03-03T11:17:00.002-06:00

Okay, okay....if you look at my picture you can tell I've put off going to my stylist for a llllooonnnnggg while but I just wanted to go au naturale during these long cold months. I have a dreaded appointment with my stylist on Thursday. Oh great, here come the dumb bows in my hair...please put me out of my misery!

However, on the topic of waiting to long...I wanted to notify all you buyers and sellers out there NOT to wait until it's too late to utilize the credits that are out there!

Just f.y.i.....

Potential home buyers who delay have a lot to lose.

First-time home buyers and move-up tax credits worth $8,000 and $6,500, respectively, expire April 30th. Buyers who qualify get a dollar-for-dollar reduction in taxes or a cash payment if they don't pay enough enough taxes to cover the credit.

Other factors that should spur buyers:

Low Mortgage Rates. If the Federal Reserve stops buying mortgage-backed securities at the end of March, 30 year rates will most certainly rise to more than 6 percent.

Rising Prices. About 30 percent of markets are experiencing price increases. Prices are falling in 12 percent of markets, says Fiserv (but that only helps if you want to live there).

February is American Heart Month

2010-02-06T11:40:00.002-06:00

With heart disease being so prevalent in my mom's family, she tries to bring awareness to the disease and prevention as much as she can.

My mom donates a portion of every commission check she gets to the American Heart Association.

Here are some things you can do to help your heart;

1) Limit your intake of fat

2) Limit your intake of sugars

3) Limit your intake of sodium

4) Choose lean meat and poultry

5) Include fish in your diet

6) Limit your intake of alcohol

7) Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day

For more information on healthy habits click here;

http://nutrition.about.com/od/nutritionaging/a/heart_attack.htm

Maggie's New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-31T13:03:00.003-06:00

Well I suppose it's that time of year again where I need to look at improving my life. Personally, I think there isn't much, if any, room for improvement but I guess it would make a good blog post.

Before I begin, I must say that my letter to Santa was obviously lost in the mail because my mom went and bought me a Snuggie for dogs and made me wear it all day. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!? I think she has lost her mind (and so does my dad). 2010 better be better because I'm really getting sick of this 'dressing up' crap!

Okay, here I go.

2010 New Year's Resolutions from Maggie;

1) To cut back on treats (ha! yeah right but it looks good in writing)

2) Try not to rip the stuffing out of all of my babies as soon as I get them.

3) To go on more car trips with my mom.

4) Try with all my might to be nicer to all the 'kitty cats' in my neighborhood I see (i.e. squirrels, dogs, humans, birds, etc.) It might be easier to do if they would all just stop irritating me at all hours of the day and night!

5) I guess I could try and clean up my language a bit. My mom hates it when I say 'crap'. She would get a lot less lip from me if she would just quit dressing me up like some idiot! See there I go again with the mouth! ugh....this will be a hard one for me

6) Ugh....um.....give me a minute to think here......hmmm....

Alright, that's good enough. Like I said before I'm pretty perfect.

Well I hope you all have a safe and happy start to the new year! It's just hard to believe that it's going to be 2010....wow....how time flies!

God bless you all.

Love,

Maggie

Maggie's Letter to Santa

2009-12-19T17:51:00.003-06:00

Dear Santa Claus,

I have been a very good girl this year...well except for the time I tried to kill our neighbor's two labs (they were teasing me about being short like my mom) and the time I snuck daddy's dinner off his plate (he shouldn't have tempted me with it)....oh, and the time I tinkled on Mommy's new Turkish rug (I think the rug is ugly anyway). Other than those tiny, minor things I've been an angel...promise!

I thought it would be a good idea to get my letter to you early so there would be no screw ups this year. Santa, I didn't appreciate the stupid jacket and sweater you got me last year. No more crap like that, ok?!?

Well here's my list. I made it short and sweet for you so there would be no confusion.

I appreciate it Santa! I'll leave you some cookies out (oh, don't worry, I won't leave any of mommy's cookies out as I know they make you sick).

Maggie's VERY important Christmas list;

1) I would like several boxes of my favorite treats.

2) As many 'babies' (stuffed animals) as you can fit in your bag. You know how I love to rip the heads off of them.

3) I would like the groomer to go away (I'm not sure if you can help me with this but these groomer appointments are VERY traumatic for me)

4) Lastly, I would like a brother or sister to play with. (Mommy said her and daddy are working on this but I wasn't sure if you could speed up the process for them. I don't care which one I get but I'd love someone to play with).

Thanks for everything Santa. Hope you get some sleep after your big day!

Love,

Maggie

Time to Give Thanks

2009-12-14T09:43:00.004-06:00

In November my mom gave her clients an opportunity to show their thanks for people that have made a difference in their lives.

My mom then let the people know how they have affected the lives of others by thanking them with a gift certificate to a restaurant. Wow...there are some very special people out there! Here are two of the wonderful submissions.

"We moved here 1 1/2 years ago & I met Barb (Bandelow) at church. I had just been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemo. I went through chemo for a year. In that time, Barb faithfully took me to all of my chemo appointments, brought us meals, called to see how I was doing, came to visit, etc. Due to the side effects and only a 10 - 20% chance that the chemo would work, I chose to stop chemo six months ago. Since then, Barb continues to be there for me. We go out to eat, work on crafts together and go shopping. She knows my cancer is progressing and continues to support me in every way as a true friend would do." Roger and Ginger Erdman

"Jonathan and I would like to give thanks to our very special Butte des Morts neighbors, Mike and Mary Rebman.

We are thankful to Mike and Mary in many ways. After Tifani helped us purchase our second home in Butte des Morts, Mike and Mary "showed us the ropes". As Chicagoans, we really needed the fast track on where to boat, where to eat, where to shop and where to have fun in the Fox Valley (plus Mary is hysterically funny). Moreover, as part time neighbors, we always knew Mike and Mary kept an eye on things for us without ever asking. They even baby sit our dog!

Mike and Mary are very hard working people at many levels; truly, rolling up their shirt sleeves. They run Triumph Electric in Appleton and work very long hours. They give back to their community through charitable giving. Mike and Mary even mow the shared community park in their spare time!

Knowing people like Mike and Mary made our transition to a lifestyle on the water fantastic! We also developed a deep friendship. We are grateful for Mike and Mary this Thanksgiving as true examples of people who we should be thankful for every day of the year." Jonathan and Beverley Rohde

Maggie's first video ever!

2009-12-05T15:14:00.003-06:00

Mommy's Making Cookies

2009-12-05T14:48:00.006-06:00

Oh Lord.....I'm not sure what I should do. My mom's in the kitchen attempting to 'make' her favorite cookies at the moment, Unbaked Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies. She plans on delivering them to some of her clients this week. Now, my mom isn't known to be the best cook in town and, in fact, has ruined a lot of things she has tried to cook. It is sad but true.

I thought I'd better warn those who are getting the cookies to tread cautiously and I also thought it might be a good idea to put the actual recipe on here so, if by a small chance they actually turn out, you might want to make them yourself (they may taste better if you make them).

I'll be praying for all of you who are 'lucky' enough to get some cookies. Have a great weekend!

Love,

Maggie

UNBAKED CHOCOLATE OATMEAL COOKIES

1/2 c butter

1/2 c milk

2 c sugar

1/2 c peanut butter

3 c quick cooking oatmeal

5 tbl cocoa powder

Cook butter, milk and sugar in a pan and bring to a boil.

Add peanut butter, oatmeal and cocoa. Boil for 5 to 7 more minutes.

Spoon onto wax paper and cool.

Time to Give Thanks

2009-11-01T07:59:00.003-06:00

November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving. We give thanks for the people in our lives, the things we have, our health, family, friends and so much more.
This month Tifani wants to help you ‘give thanks’ to the special people in your life.

Nominate another family, couple, close friend or relative to receive a $50 gift certificate to enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant in the Fox Valley. Tell Tifani why you are thankful for them.

The story that is picked will be posted in Tifani’s next e-newsletter and on Maggie’s Dog Blog located on Tifani’s website www.TifaniAndCompany.com.

The winning nominee will win a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant located in the Fox Valley.

All stories must be submitted by November 22nd to qualify. You can send all entries to Tifani@TifaniAndCompany.com.

Happy Thanksgiving all November from Tifani And Company!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T09:55:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween everyone! Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour tonight.

Love, Maggie

A Historic Time to Buy

2009-10-07T16:22:00.001-05:00

Young people just starting to invest and buying their first homes are potentially the winners in this recession.First-time homebuyers, most between the ages of 25 and 45, accounted for about 45 percent of home sales from January through July 2009, according to the National Association of REALTORS®"This is a historic time," says George Jaramillo, a 35-year-old business analyst in Atlanta, who recently bought three homes, two of them foreclosures. "It's a great opportunity to make some great gains in the future."A study by investment company T. Rowe Price points out that investing when prices are low can result in amazing gains. For instance, between 1970 and 1990, the annualized rate of return for the S&P 500 was 11.5 percent."We need to be shouting from the rooftops that this is not the time to get out of the market if you're young," says Christine Fahlund, a senior financial planner with T. Rowe Price. "This is the time to be in the market."Source: The Associated Press, Chip Cutter (10/05/2009)

Will the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Be Extended?

2009-09-23T13:05:00.003-05:00

By Luke Mullins
As we mark the one-year anniversary of the financial meltdown's most gut-churning period—Uncle Sam's takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the downfall of Lehman Brothers, the hasty sale of Merrill Lynch—signs of optimism in the housing market are everywhere. Existing home sales rose in July for the forth time in as many months, something the market hasn't seen since 2004. Inventory totals are off their record levels of a year ago. And prices, while still declining sharply, are no longer in free fall. However, the looming expiration of a popular federal tax credit has some worried that the housing market may give back its recent gains, and the real estate and home building industries are pushing lawmakers to extend the incentive. Here's a look at the impact of the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit, and the political outlook for its extension:
1. The specs: In an effort to stimulate housing demand, President Barack Obama included a tax credit of up to $8,000 for certain first-time home buyers in the $787 billion economic stimulus package he signed in February. Only buyers of principal residences who make purchases before December 1 and have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less (or $150,000 for married couples) are eligible for the full credit. "The thinking about this tax credit is that it helps to support sales when the job market is still a mess," says Mark Zandi, the chief economist of Moody's Economy.com.
2. Impact: The tax credit is one of a number of factors that have worked to bolster the housing market in recent months. Even more important than the government's incentive has been the increasing affordability of real estate, says Mike Larson of Weiss Research. Rates on 30-year fixed mortgages fell to just above 5 percent this week, according to Freddie Mac. Meanwhile, home prices at the national level have plummeted more than 30 percent from the second quarter of 2006. The first-time home buyer tax credit "is the icing on the cake, not the cake itself," Larson says. "Falling home prices have worked their magic. That's why we are where we are." Still, Larson believes that the tax credit has played a key psychological role in pushing buyers off the sidelines and that its expiration would take some of the wind out of the market's sales. For his part, Zandi estimates that the credit will add nearly 400,000 new and existing home sales by the time of its scheduled expiration.
3. Extension efforts: Although the credit's deadline isn't until the end of November, buyers may need to make an offer on a house by the end of September to take advantage of it, according to the National Association of Realtors. (That's because it's taking longer to complete transactions these days, the trade group says.) In the face of this looming deadline, housing and real estate interest groups have stepped up their efforts to convince lawmakers in Washington to extend the credit. Sen. Johnny Isakson, a Georgia Republican who worked in the real estate business before turning to politics, has been pushing for an expansion of the credit for some time. "December through February is historically the worst time for home sales anyway because of the winter months, so with the credit ending November 30, you have a double whammy" on the market, Isakson says. On Wednesday, he and several other lawmakers—including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat—introduced a bill that would extend the tax credit for an additional six months. (Isakson had previously introduced legislation to extend the credit by a year.)
4. Opposition: Supporters of an extension of the credit will have to overcome mounting concerns about budget deficits and rising government spending. "There is no doubt about it that, compared to when we were working on this last winter, people are asking questions about the cost, when before it was not as much of a factor," says Jerry Howard, the president of the National Association of Home Builders. Zandi estimates that it would cost between $15 billion and $17 billion to extend the tax credit for another six months, which he considers money well spent. "If you extended it to mid next year . . . by then the job market will be stable enough that we can allow the tax credit to expire and it won't totally submarine the housing market," he says.
5. Odds: Senator Isakson believes lawmakers will eventually move to extend the credit in one form or another. "I don't believe either this administration or the current leadership would look November 30 in the eye and let this thing die," he says. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said this week that the administration is evaluating the credit's impact and will make a recommendation to the president, the Associated Press reported. The outlook for an extension appears to have brightened. Scott Talbott, a top lobbyist at the Financial Services Roundtable, put the odds of its extension at 50-50 earlier this week, but he said that the chances improved to 75-25 after Reid endorsed the six-month extension. Still, as lawmakers remain consumed with other matters, such as healthcare reform, action on the tax credit is unlikely to take place until the expiration date nears, Talbott says. "Congress works best on deadlines and crisis," he says. "And we sort of will have both with this one."

REALTORS® Develop Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Web Site

2009-07-21T16:28:00.001-05:00

Madison, WI - July 15, 2009 - (RealEstateRama) — A new online resource developed by the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association can help consumers take steps to avoid foreclosure or navigate through the process for a better outcome.
The nation’s economic downturn has created financial challenges for many homeowners and experts say extended periods of unemployment, mounting debt and medical expenses brought on by a loss of insurance are contributing to today’s record wave of foreclosures. These factors, along with a decline in property values and predatory behavior by some lenders, have made it difficult for many homeowners to meet their financial obligations and stay current on their loans
“The possibility of going through foreclosure is the last thing consumers think about when they buy a home, but unfortunately it’s the situation thousands of Wisconsin homeowners are facing today,’’ says Bill Malkasian, President of the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association. “As a trusted source of advice and counsel, we created this resource to help homeowners achieve a better outcome when faced with difficult choices. The reality is that banks don’t want to have to go through the time and expense of the foreclosure process, so there is much more opportunity to negotiate new terms and hold on to your home.”
The Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Resource Center provides answers to frequently asked questions about Wisconsin’s foreclosure process and features a variety of credible resources, including expert advice and contact information for trusted advisers throughout the state.
The site’s three main sections – a survival kit, prevention kit and public information kit – include video clips with experts from the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority and more. In addition, the site explains the foreclosure timeline and provides a glossary of terms to help homeowners ask the right questions and get the answers they need.
Malkasian says one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is to do nothing when confronted with a financial problem. Whether they are buoyed by a false sense of optimism that things will get better, or feel a sense of embarrassment or fear, many are reluctant to reach out and make contact with their mortgage provider.
“Often, stress and emotions are running high for homeowners in this situation,’’ Malkasian says. “The purpose of the online resource is to provide a ready source of credible help that takes emotion out of the equation and replaces fear with a clear course of action. Homeowners in this situation are particularly vulnerable to predatory schemes and we wanted to provide professional contacts – often at nonprofit agencies — who are trained to help.’’
The site includes a thorough discussion of what to do if you are unable to make a scheduled mortgage payment, when it might be time to sell your home and tips for avoiding foreclosure scams.
For more information, visit the Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Resource Center at http://www.wisconsinforeclosurekit.org/.

Results of Oshkosh Vision Survey

2009-07-10T11:46:00.001-05:00

Oshkosh, Wis., residents recently took a vision survey designed to help chart a common community path for the years to come. The community survey elicited approximately 2,400 responses, a majority of which called for sustainability and a renewed focus on the city's downtown and riverfront. Consultant Tony Nelessen of A. Nelessen Associates, who conducted the survey, remarked, "The set of recommendations that came out of all that input probably creates one of the most visually interesting, greenly aesthetic futures for a town that I've ever seen." When Oshkosh initially embarked on the visioning process earlier this year, local officials had some grandiose plans in mind but lacked a cohesive vision. Thanks to the survey, City Manager Mark Rohloff stated, "Now we have some vision to go with the plans. Now we can marry those two and move forward." More than 90 percent of respondents stated that future development should be focused on downtown Oshkosh. Not a single respondent, meanwhile, advocated more development along the U.S. Highway 41 corridor. On the north side, respondents called for additional multifamily housing and mixed-use retail. Finally, the survey showed strong support for development south of the river that focuses on parks and green space.

Summer BBQ'ing Tips

2009-06-21T20:29:00.002-05:00

Everything tastes better off the grill or barbeque pit, and nothing could be simpler, right? Well....... there is more to barbeque than tossing a steak or burger on a grill. Experience is a great teacher but it's always nice to learn from other's mistakes.

1. Wash everything after handling raw meat, and don't reuse the plate that you used for uncooked meat.
2. Have a spray bottle full of water nearby your grill in cause of flare-ups.

3. Using charcoal briquettes for your barbecue's heat? Then light the coals about 30 minutes before to cooking.

4. If you're a charcoal fan, first line the inside bottom of your cooker with a couple of sheets of aluminum foil before you put your briquettes in.

5. Cooking chicken? If you intend to eat the skin, rub the outside with a little butter or oil and then lightly season it.

6. Leaner steak cuts possess more flavor but will be a little tougher if cooked past medium.

7. Use these cooking times for grilled fish: Salmon fillets, 6 - 8 minutes per side; Salmon or halibut steaks, 5 minutes per side; Trout fillets, 4 minutes per side; Small whole fish, 7 minutes per side; and Large fish, 15 minutes per side. If your whole fish are stuffed, give it a few extra minutes per side.

8. Don't add any salt until the meat is cooked to prevent it from getting dry and tough.

TODAY IS MAGGIE'S BIRTHDAY

2009-06-19T11:12:00.003-05:00

Today is my 9th birthday!!! My mom is taking me to Petco to get a treat and she's also baking me a cake later!

"Sellers Offer Incentives to Help Lure Homebuyers"

2009-06-19T11:11:00.001-05:00

Home sellers, particularly those who do not need to pay off mortgages, are offering creative financing to attract buyers. REALTORS® say these sellers might offer lease-to-own agreements, or they could provide mortgages to cover the purchase. Sellers benefit from being able to secure higher asking prices and unload the properties faster while generating a monthly income without taking on a lot of risk. If the buyer defaults, the seller simply assumes ownership of the property and resells it. Meanwhile, agents say buyers benefit from being able to negotiate the interest rate and terms with the seller. Those who do not qualify for conventional financing have a better chance of becoming homeowners.

Pending home sales rise 6.7%

2009-06-08T13:30:00.000-05:00

The number of U.S. homebuyers who agreed to purchase a previously occupied home in April posted the largest monthly jump in nearly eight years, a sign that sales are finally coming to life after a long and painful slump.
The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday its seasonally adjusted index of sales contracts signed in April surged 6.7 percent to 90.3, far exceeding analysts' forecasts. It was the biggest monthly jump since October 2001, when pending sales rose 9.2 percent.
Economists were encouraged by the report, and stock indexes advanced modestly.
"This is yet another positive indication that the bottoming process is forming," Jennifer Lee, an economist at BMO Capital Markets, wrote in a note to clients. "Now if only prices would stabilize."
Economists surveyed by Thomson Reuters expected the index would edge up to 85 from a reading of 84.6 in March. Typically there is a one- to two-month lag between a contract and a done deal, so the index is a barometer for future existing home sales.
In early trading, the Dow Jones industrial average added about 20 points to 8,741, and at times traded above 8,776.39, its finish for 2008.
Still, some economists wonder whether rising mortgage rates will dampen home sales. Nationwide average rates for 30-year-fixed rate mortgages are around 5.3 percent this week compared with about 5 percent a week earlier, according to Bankrate.com.
And analysts cautioned prices will take longer to stabilize, because of the glut of unsold properties on the market.
"Even if sales volumes rebound, home prices will keep falling under the weight of the massive inventory overhang," wrote Ian Shepherdson, chief U.S. economist at High Frequency Economics.
The Realtors' index was 3.2 percent above last year's levels and has risen for three straight months after hitting a record low in January. A nearly 33 percent sales increase in the Northeast and a 9.8 percent jump in the Midwest led the overall surge. Sales contracts rose 1.8 percent in April from a month earlier in the West, but fell 0.2 percent in the South.
The big boost likely reflects the impact of a new $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers that was included in the economic stimulus bill signed by President Barack Obama in February. Since buyers need to finish their purchases by Nov. 30 to claim the credit, "we expect greater activity in the months ahead," Lawrence Yun, the Realtors' chief economist, said in a statement.
Still, Yun cautioned that the pending sales data is more volatile than in the past because many sellers need banks to agree to take less than the original mortgage -- a so-called "short sale." That process is often difficult, time-consuming and can wind up falling apart before the deal closes.
The Federal Housing Administration last week released details of a plan in which borrowers who use FHA loans can get advances from lenders that let them effectively receive the credit in advance, so they don't have to wait to get the money from the Internal Revenue Service.
Completed home sales rose 2.9 percent to an annual rate of 4.68 million in April from a downwardly revised pace of 4.55 million in March, the Realtors' group said last week.
Sales of inexpensive foreclosures and other distressed low-end properties have even sparked bidding wars in places like Las Vegas, Phoenix and Miami. But the market for high-end properties remains at a virtual standstill.
The national median sales price in April plunged more than 15 percent to $170,200, from $201,300 in the same month last year. That was the second largest yearly price drop on record, according to the Realtors' group.

Homebuyer Snapshot

2009-05-28T13:55:00.002-05:00

Did you know???

That the average age of the first time homebuyer is 30?

That the average purchase price of a first time homebuyer is $165,000?

That the average age for a repeat buyer is 47?

That the average purchase price for a repeat buyer is $236,000?

That 57% of the population has never lived outside of their current state?

That 37% of the population has never left their hometown?

That 20% of the population has left their hometown but never lived in a different state?

People define home differently: 26% say it's where they were born or raised; 22% say it's where they live now; 18% say it's where they have lived the longest; 15% say it's where their family comes from; and 4% say it's where they went to high school.

Did you know that Maggie will be 9 years old on June 17th???

Anyone Tweet?

2009-04-02T20:57:00.003-05:00

Want to get instant updates on the real estate market? You can now follow my mom on Twitter.

You can find her under

TifaniAndCo

As a reminder.....

2009-03-07T12:09:00.002-06:00

Don't forget to set your clocks ahead tonight. It's time to 'Spring Forward'! Yay, now it will be lighter out longer!

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

2009-03-06T08:55:00.005-06:00

My mom is getting asked tons of questions about this first-time home buyer tax credit. I decided to post a few of the top questions she gets asked.

Frequently Asked Questions
In 2008, Congress enacted a $7500 tax credit designed to be an incentive for first-time homebuyers to purchase a home. The credit was designed as a mechanism to decrease the over-supply of homes for sale.
For 2009, Congress has increased the credit to $8000 and made several additional improvements. This revised $8000 tax credit applies to purchases on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

Who is eligible?
Only first-time homebuyers are eligible. A person is considered a first-time buyer if he/she has not had any ownership interest in a home in the three years previous to the day of the 2009 purchase.

Do I have to repay the 2009 tax credit?
NO. There is no repayment for 2009 tax credits.
Do 2008 purchasers still have to repay their tax credit?
YES. The $7500 credit in 2008 was more like an interest-free loan. All eligible purchasers who claimed the 2008 credit will still be required to repay it over 15 years, starting with their 2010 tax return.

How do I apply for the credit?
There is no pre-purchase authorization, application or similar approval process. All eligible purchasers simply claim the credit on their IRS Form 1040 tax return. The credit will be reflected on a new Form 5405 that will be attached to the 1040. Form 5405 can be found at http://www.wra.org/Communications/107064/12372229/63067228.
So I can't use the credit amount as part of my downpayment?
No. Congress tried hard to devise a mechanism that would make the funds available for closing costs, but found that pre-funding would require cumbersome processes that would, in effect, bring the IRS into the purchase and settlement phase of the transaction.

In a world of bad news, here's a story to put a smile on your face.

2009-02-25T11:31:00.002-06:00

Team's gesture supports grieving opponent
ESPN.com news services
Two missed free throws, ordinarily the cause of a coach's headache, became the symbol of sportsmanship in a Milwaukee boys' basketball game earlier this month.
Milwaukee Madison senior Johntell Franklin, who lost his mother, Carlitha, to cancer on Saturday, Feb. 7, decided he wanted to play in that night's game against DeKalb (Ill.) High School after previously indicating he would sit out.
He arrived at the gym in the second quarter, but Franklin's name was not in the scorebook because his coach, Aaron Womack Jr., didn't expect him to be there.
Rules dictated Womack would have to be assessed a technical, but he was prepared to put Franklin in the game anyway. DeKalb coach Dave Rohlman and his players knew of the situation, and told the referees they did not want the call.
The referees had no choice. But Rohlman did.
"I gathered my kids and said, 'Who wants to take these free throws?'" Rohlman said, recounting the game to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "Darius McNeal put up his hand. I said, 'You realize you're going to miss, right?' He nodded his head."
McNeal, a senior point guard, went to the line. The Milwaukee Madison players stayed by their bench, waiting for the free throws. Instead of seeing the ball go through the net, they saw the ball on the court, rolling over the end line.
"I turned around and saw the ref pick up the ball and hand it back to the player," Womack said in the Journal Sentinel. "And then [McNeal] did the same thing again."
Said Rohlman: "Darius set up for a regular free throw, but he only shot it two or three feet in front of him. It bounced once or twice and just rolled past the basket."
"I did it for the guy who lost his mom," McNeal told the newspaper. "It was the right thing to do."
Womack, overwhelmed by DeKalb's gesture, wrote a letter to the DeKalb Daily Chronicle, which had first reported the story.
"As a principal, school, school district staff, and community you should all feel immense pride for the remarkable job that the coaching staff is doing in not only coaching these young men, but teaching them how to be leaders," Womack wrote.
DeKalb had traveled more than two hours for the game, and waited another two as Womack rushed from the hospital, where he had been with Franklin, to the school to gather his team.
"We were sympathetic to the circumstances and the events," Rohlman said in the Journal Sentinel. "We even told Coach Womack that it'd be OK to call off the game, but he said we had driven 2½ hours to get here and the kids wanted to play. So we said, 'Spend some time with your team and come out when you're ready.'"
The two schools had met twice previously, and this one ended with a Madison victory, but as in the other games, they also shared a pizza dinner, "four kids to a pizza, two Madison kids and two DeKalb kids," Womack told the Journal Sentinel.
"That letter became a big deal in DeKalb," Rohlman said in the paper. "We got lots of positive calls and e-mails because of it. Even though we lost the game, it was a true life lesson, and it's not one our kids are going to forget anytime soon."
Womack, in his letter to the DeKalb Daily Chronicle, added this at the end: "I'd like to recognize Darius who stepped up to miss the shot on purpose. He could have been selfish and cared only for his own stats [I hope Coach Rohlman doesn't make him run for missing the free throws]."

Winnebago Home Show

2009-02-12T09:57:00.002-06:00

I wanted to let you know that the Winnebago Home Builders Association (WHBA) Home Show starts tomorrow and runs through Sunday. My mom will be working at the show in the Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group booth on Saturday, February 14th, from 10 a.m. to noon. Please come out and visit her and other members of the Pawlosky Team as well!

Admission is free if you bring a canned good. All donations are going to the Salvation Army Food Pantry which my mom is a big supporter of. You can also make a donation to the Habitat for Humanity to get in free of charge. For more information you can check out http://www.whba.net/.

I wish I could go with my mom but she said they don't let 4 legged people in. How unfair!

I Really Don't Get It!

2009-01-21T09:38:00.001-06:00

What Are You Waiting For?
Houses on sale, interest rates still near all-time lows, and lenders no longer pushing mortgages that get you into trouble - this may be the best time to buy a house.
Not since the Great Depression has there been such a steep decline in the prices of homes. You can call it a crisis, or as the federal regulators say, a "correction," but it just as meaningful to call it a "sale," so yes, it's probably a good time to buy a house. Of course there is no guarantee that we have reached the bottom on prices, but at the very least you know you are paying substantially less than you would have a couple years ago.
What if you're a first time home buyer? Well, it makes sense to buy something when it's on sale - including a house. In addition, interest rates are still low (as of late 2008). And although it's tougher to get financing now, this isn't all bad. You can feel safer knowing that banks and other lenders are no longer allowing borrowers to get mortgages they can’t afford. Plus first time buyers can receive a credit of $7,500 to use as they would like (basically an interest-free 15 yr loan).
Now, if you have the financial means, you might want to buy the new home now without selling your existing house. You can rent out your current house and wait for better times when you might get more for it.
Buyers have more of a home selection than has ever been seen before. What are you waiting for? As they say, “You Snooze, You Lose”.

9 Housing-Market Head Winds for 2009 (from Yahoo real estate)

2009-01-05T09:59:00.002-06:00

With home prices having dropped a painful 21 percent from their 2006 peaks, property owners everywhere could use a splash of good news in their New Year's Eve cocktails. But as a nasty recession is now part of the picture, the chances of an aggressive housing market rebound next year are dim. "A lasting recovery in the housing market?" says Mike Larson, a real estate analyst at Weiss Research. "I don't see it in the cards until the back end of the year—if that."
Here's a look at the factors that will be weighing down the housing market in 2009:

1. Recession: After months of speculation, the National Bureau of Economic Research made it official Monday, announcing that the U.S. economy entered into a recession in December 2007. The only question now is: How painful a recession will we have? In a November 21 report, economists at Goldman Sachs revised their previous forecast to reflect a more significant economic contraction and higher unemployment. "We now estimate that real GDP is falling at a 5 percent annual rate in the current quarter, and we expect this to be followed by declines of 3 percent and 1 percent in the next two quarters," the economists said. "This deepens and extends the expected recession, bringing the drop in GDP close to the decline seen in 1982 (2.3 percent in our forecast versus 2.7 percent then)." The recession will exert downward pressure on the housing market in a number of ways.
2. Higher Unemployment: The shrinking economy will result in additional layoffs, which will work to smother housing demand. The unemployment rate has already been climbing—it now stands at 6.5 percent—but many expect it to increase significantly in the coming year. Goldman Sachs projects the unemployment rate to hit 9 percent by the end of 2009. "This forecast, if correct, makes the current recession unequivocally the worst single downturn on record since World War II insofar as increases in joblessness are concerned," the economists said. Fewer jobs mean fewer home buyers, since an income stream is essential to obtaining a mortgage. "A job is necessary for a home," says Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody's Economy.com. "Without [a job] you can't get [a home]."
3. Consumer Confidence: If consumers are worried about the state of the economy and their jobs, they are much less likely to make the biggest financial investment of their lives: buying a house. With a leading survey showing that consumer confidence in the United States dropped to 28-year lows in November, downward pressure on this front will be working against the housing market as well. "You generally don't buy a home unless you feel pretty good about your economic situation," Zandi says. "No one feels good [today]."
4. The Underwater Effect: A recent Zillow report found that 1 in 7 American homeowners has negative equity—owing more on a home than it is worth. (For those who bought a home in the past five years, it's nearly 1 in 3.) Many homeowners in this situation will choose to simply walk away from their homes rather than continue to pay off a devaluing investment. And with home prices expected to fall further next year, the number of "underwater" mortgages will most likely increase. "The underwater phenomenon is going to be very bad in 2009," says Christopher Thornberg of Beacon Economics.
5. Tighter Credit: As banks face higher loan delinquencies, they've responded by jacking up their lending standards for even well-qualified borrowers. The Federal Reserve's most recent Senior Loan Officer Survey found that 70 percent of domestic banks had boosted their lending standards for prime mortgages. More stringent terms will prevent certain borrowers from obtaining mortgages, thereby limiting demand for housing.
6. Slowing Household Formation: At the same time, the pace of new household formation is slowing, which further chips away at housing demand. Richard Moody, chief economist at Mission Residential, says the development is linked to three factors: More singles are moving in with each other, young adults are returning to live with their parents, and fewer immigrants are entering the country. "For those three reasons, you are seeing a slowdown in the rate of household formation," Moody says. "And to the extent that the economy and the labor market remain weak this year—which I think they will—then that's going to continue."
7. Radioactive Effect: Despite lower real estate prices and cheaper mortgage rates, the pain inflicted by the housing bust will frighten many would-be buyers away from the market next year, Larson says. "Enough of your 'average Joes' have been burned very badly and will be burned by the time this is all over that investment money is not going to flood back into the market," Larson says. "Any recovery—in my opinion—will be gradual and is going to take time."
8. Foreclosure Sales: A huge problem for the housing market in 2008, foreclosures sales will continue weighing down the market next year. "There was a surge this year," Zandi says. "But next year [there] will be even more." While that will give buyers an opportunity to go bargain hunting, it's bad news for sellers. "It puts more homes out there for sale at a very deep discount," Zandi adds.
9. Subprime Mortgages: While resetting subprime mortgages may not be a leading factor behind the decline in home prices—as they were this year—such products will again be working against the housing market in 2009, Thornberg says. "There are still lots of subprime mortgages out there that are going to reset not just in 2009, but 2010 and 2011," he says. "And so that's going to be a consistent problem for a while, although it is probably reduced in magnitude [from 2008]."

USA Today Article

2008-12-30T08:09:00.003-06:00

As I'm still playing with all of my loot that I got from Santa this year I don't have much time to blog. I did find this article in USA Today over the weekend however and thought you'd find it interesting. I'll be back to the 'real' world soon..........see ya in 09'!

How Long Will the Economic Plunge Go On?

It may come as a surprise, but the U.S. economy is expected to emerge from the recession sometime around mid-2009.

Until that happens, the economy will remain mired in one of the deepest and longest downturns the nation has seen in decades.

If the recession continues past the spring, as many economists predict, it will be the most prolonged one since the Great Depression. Employers are expected to continue to shed jobs at a rapid pace. Consumers will pull back spending. Businesses will cancel equipment purchases. Unsold, empty homes will dot city blocks.

Once the massive amount of fiscal stimulus currently being crafted by lawmakers and aggressive action by the Federal Reserve kicks in, the economy is expected to improve, according to several economists and business owners.

Can you believe it's finally here??

2008-12-24T12:16:00.002-06:00

I hope you all have a blessed and very merry Christmas!

Love, Maggie and family

No Real Estate News is Good News, Right??!!??

2008-12-17T09:15:00.005-06:00

Top Peeves Dogs have with Humans

1. Yelling at me for barking. I'M A FRIGGIN' DOG

2. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway?

3. Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose. Stop it!

4. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew your stuff up when you're not home.

5. The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw. You fooled a dog! Whoooo oooooooo what a proud moment for the top of the food chain.

6. Taking me to the vet for "the big snip", then acting surprised when I freak out every time we go back!

7. Getting upset when I sniff the crotches of your guests. Sorry, but I haven't quite mastered that handshake thing yet.

8. Dog sweaters. Hello ??? Haven't you noticed the fur?

Be Thankful Contest Winner

2008-12-11T10:24:00.003-06:00

Recently my mom held a contest called the 'Be Thankful' contest. People could submit a person or family that they were thankful for. The winner would receive a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

Well the winning entry was sent in by Dave and Judy Weiss and here is a portion of their submission.

Congratulations Gale and Rita!

I would like to nominate a great family from Omro. The family consists of the parents, Gale, Rita and their eight children. Gale works evenings and Rita home schools the children who range in age from four to thirteen. I see Rita and the children in church each Sunday and they are so well behaved. The kids are very likable. Twice a month Rita teaches Science at the home schoolers meeting. She also attends a Bible study on Tuesday evenings while the 13 year old babysits - something Rita feels a bit of guilt about, but feels she needs the fellowship of other women. This family needs mom and dad to have a night out. It's been a long time for them and I thank you for considering them as you search for the right folks for your award.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

2008-11-26T18:17:00.003-06:00

Okay, the snow can melt now. I'm already over it! My mom and dad left me at grandma's house while they ran off to warmer weather....AGAIN! Who do they think they are anyway?!?
Can you believe it's less than a month now until Christmas?!? Wow, how time flies!
However, tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Take time to be with family and friends and be thankful for all the blessings we have. I'm thankful for all the treats that grandpa is going to give me while I'm at their house and thankful that I didn't have to take any stupid new pictures for my blog! AND....I'm very thankful for my mom and dad!!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I AM as miserable as I look!

2008-11-19T08:07:00.004-06:00

Here's the latest........

Home sales in Winnebago County continue to slump
By Larry Avila • for The Northwestern • November 19, 2008

Home sales in Winnebago County were down 13 percent between July and September, slightly better than the statewide drop of 16.7 percent compared to last year.
The county joined most of northeast Wisconsin in a continuing home sales slide, according to data released Tuesday by the Wisconsin Realtors Association.
K.C. Maurer, with ReMax 24/7 in Appleton, said the Northeast Wisconsin MLS region logged 7,363 sales between January and September, down from 8,614 the same time last year.
"The (Multiple Listing Service) third quarter number (for northeast Wisconsin) is down 14.5 percent year-to-date," he said. "We still saw a lot of transactions, but it is down."
Winnebago County reported 423 sales, down 13 percent from 486 in 2007. Outagamie County logged 430 sales, down 18.4 percent from 527 a year ago, and Waupaca County recorded 116 transactions, down 25.6 percent from 156 last year.
Still, there were some bright spots.
Calumet County was among a dozen counties in Wisconsin that reported sales gains. A total of 109 homes were sold during the third quarter in Calumet County, a 4.8 percent increase from the same time a year ago when 104 homes sold.
Real estate experts could not pinpoint why some counties across the state saw gains in existing home sales between July and September, though no one is complaining.
"I cannot point to any single event," Maurer said.
David Clark, economist for C3 Statistical Solutions in Milwaukee, whose firm works with WRA in compiling sales data, said buyers still are sitting on the sidelines.
"Our belief is that it's the economy right now," he said. "Sellers are motivated but consumers are being cautious."
Maurer said while trends show sales are down, the data is showing some signs of improvement.
"Every month this year, the year-to-date numbers get a little better," he said. "None the less, they still are negative. The turnaround is slow in coming, but at least the slide is not continuing in the wrong direction and it seems like it's starting to turn in the right direction."

You Can't Be Serious?!?!

2008-11-12T09:41:00.006-06:00

Well my mom is pretty discouraged today after reading a housing market prediction for 2009 in Money Market Magazine. Yes, she knows that this is just one prediction out of many but after such a tumultuous two years more bad news is pretty depressing.

My mom works really hard for her sellers and will continue to do so. Things with the housing market will eventually turn around. We all need to stay positive and encouraged!

Forecast 2009: Your Home
By Stephen Gandel, Money Magazine
Nov 11th, 2008
(Money Magazine) -- Forget the old saw that all real estate is local. What's pummeling housing prices in your nabe is the same thing that's hurting them around the country: the credit crisis.
You know the drill - banks' troubles have made it harder for many home buyers to get mortgages and those who do qualify have to pay more. A borrower with good credit and a 20% down payment recently got charged an interest rate of 6.7%, on average, according to HSH Associates.
It's true that this rate is not historically high (rates often surpassed 9% in the early 1990s). But it's more than the 6.2% that the same borrower would have paid at the beginning of 2008.
The fact that mortgage rates have remained stubbornly elevated despite the government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac leads some experts to believe that those rates are not headed down anytime soon.
Then look at the fact that 18.6 million homes in this country are now sitting vacant, more than at any other time since the Census Bureau began tracking that figure in the 1960s. And that 2.8% of U.S. mortgage loans are now at least three months in arrears, up from 1.4% a year ago. That rate is projected to peak in early 2009.
But if a recession lasts for three-quarters of the year, as some economists are predicting, the number of foreclosures could remain high longer. Add it all up and you have another lousy year for real estate.
Home prices are down 20% nationwide since their peak in July 2006, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller home price index. Economist Nouriel Roubini of New York University, who accurately predicted the housing slide and credit crisis, expects another 20% decline in home prices next year. Patrick Newport of economic forecasting firm Global Insight projects a 15% drop.
The damage will likely hit even areas that have so far escaped many problems, such as New York City. "We don't see the market turning until late 2009," says Newport.
The wild card:
· How much home values fall early in the year
If they go so low that investors can start renting out homes for enough to cover their mortgage payments, we could see a wave of people snapping up bargain houses in 2009 - which could push prices higher by the time the next 12 months draw to a close.
Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the perpetually optimistic National Association of Realtors, says he expects prices to rise 2.8% in 2009.

Elections Over...Now What?

2008-11-05T12:28:00.004-06:00

As my mom has been out and about enjoying this weather I've been the one left to work around this joint. Ugh....

Now that we have elected a new president, like it or not, I'm hearing that the economy and housing market are going to start a slow recovery. This recession has been hard on all of us. I have certainly been seeing a lot less of my mom and dad because they're working hard and longer hours (even though my mom is out horsing around now while I'm working).

I wanted to pass along some encouraging information that I heard from a local mortgage expert here in town. She knows her stuff and has really been a help to my mom by keeping her posted on the latest news in the mortgage world.

"The U.S. should be braced for more financial changes in the upcoming months and into 2009. The changes that have occurred already and future ones are both frustrating, but necessary. We have seen a cleansing of the mortgage environment by stricter underwriting guidelines and elimination of "riskier" type loan products. So even though it is more difficult to obtain financing, monies are readily available to more traditional borrowers. This includes minimal down payment. Overall the mortgage industry will continue to be healthy and make home purchasing affordable so indications are that 2009 should be a productive year. "

Michelle O'Mahoney

M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank

Mortgage Banker

920-236-6927 Direct

20-236-6925 Fax

20-229-7936 Mobile

Now let's turn this market around and go buy and sell some houses!!!!!

I'm off to go find my mother.......................

McCain or Obama????

2008-11-03T14:26:00.004-06:00

Well tomorrow is the big day....election day. We live in such a great country with the freedom and right to vote. Please exercise those rights by voting tomorrow. Polling places open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. If you're not sure where to vote I have attached a link for all polling locations in Winnebago County.

http://www.co.winnebago.wi.us/countyclerk/PollingPlaces.pdf

Regardless of who wins, one thing I do know is that those annoying automated political calls will stop!! Thank goodness...it's about to drive my mom and dad nuts!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2008-10-31T10:33:00.003-05:00

My dad, my mom and I want to wish you all a Happy Halloween!

I think my mom and dad lost it a little....take a look at these Halloween costumes they chose! An 80's era prom date and a plate of spaghetti?!?! What the heck? They have way too much time on their hands! Ugh, the things I put up with around here!

Also, as a reminder...don't forget to set your clocks back an hour on Saturday night. It's time to 'fall back'!

Have a great weekend!

We Love Wisconsin

2008-10-27T11:15:00.002-05:00

With all the bad real estate news out there, I thought I'd pass along some fun and interesting info about us good ole' Wisconsin folk......

I'm off to carve some pumpkins!

"75 Percent Who Live in Wisconsin Were Born Here, Census Finds"

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (09/22/08) Glauber, Bill; Poston, Ben

According to the U.S. Census Bureau's new American Community Survey, three out of four of the U.S.-born population in Wisconsin--75.2 percent, to be exact--were born in the state. In fact, the Midwest leads the nation's regions, with 70.3 percent of residents living in the states where they were born. The survey results provide a snapshot of the social, economic and housing characteristics of the nation. The ebb and flow of people sticking close to home or moving between states provides a measure of the popularity of places where people live. States with fewer native-born residents, such as Nevada and Florida, tend to have higher population growth rates. William Frey, a demographer at the Brookings Institution, comments, "The good news [for Wisconsin] is you have a sense of 'rootedness' in a population like this. These are people who really care about their communities." For a lot of residents, leaving Wisconsin isn't even a possibility. Of the state's biggest cities, Appleton (78.1 percent) has the highest rate of U.S.-born residents from Wisconsin, while Madison (63.3 percent) contains the lowest. Milwaukee County led the state with 8.4 percent foreign born population, with Dane County trailing in second at 7.2 percent. Waukesha County shared the state average at 4.5 percent.

A New Idea

2008-10-14T18:05:00.002-05:00

As the housing slump drags on, homeowners unable to sell their properties are taking an unusual approach. Instead of taking in long-term renters, many are offering unsold properties as fully furnished rentals for corporate housing.

Since these leases are typically short term, homeowners can easily put their property back on the market should the buying activity increase.

Companies benefit because renting private homes can be cheaper and more desirable than traditional corporate housing options.

A host of websites and organizations have cropped up to help homeowners advertise their houses to business travelers and corporations. http://www.corporatehousingbyowner.com/ now has 14,500 registered corporate users in search of private rentals.

It's nice to have options in this tough and strange housing market.

10 Ways to Cut Energy Bills This Fall

2008-10-02T11:01:00.004-05:00

My dad doesn't like to turn the heat on until 'it's absolutely necessary'. Um, hello....it's getting cold and it's a high of 34 degrees tonight!! My mom and I freeze our butts off until we whine enough and dad relents.
I decided to do some research to let you know how we can all stay warm while saving some money.

When the leaves start falling, you know that the heating bills are about to start rising. But keeping your home warm and cozy on chilly autumn nights doesn't have to break the bank.

The U.S. Department of Energy offers these simple tips and relatively inexpensive home improvements that will help ensure cold gusts stay out and your furnace doesn't have to work harder than it should.

The goal: Conserve energy and keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket.

Share these ideas with customers and use them for your own house. After all, who doesn't need to save a little money these days?

1. Plug air leaks with caulking, sealing, or weather stripping. Save 10 percent ($190 per year) or more on energy bills. Focus on windows, doors, outlets or switch plates on exterior walls.

2. Properly maintain the heating system. Heating accounts for half the average family's energy bill (approximately $950 per year). Make sure the furnace or heat pump receives professional maintenance each year. The small cost (about $75-100 for most service calls) will pay back in better performance all year long.

3. Install a programmable thermostat. Programming the thermostat from 72ºF to 65ºF for eight hours a day while no one is home, or everyone is tucked in bed, will cut the heating bill up to 10 percent ($90 per year), paying for a basic unit in less than a year.

4. Seal and insulate heating ducts. A system can lose up to 60 percent of its warmed air before it reaches the register (wasting $570 in warmed air per year) if ducts are not properly insulated in unheated areas such as attics and crawlspaces.

5. Insulate, insulate, insulate. Adequate insulation in the attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawlspaces can save up to 30 percent on home energy bills ($630 per year). Focus on the attic. (Heat rises.) Most homes should have between R-30 and R-49 insulation in the attic. Learn more at www.eere.energy.gov/consumer.

6. Close fireplace dampers when not in use. When in use, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window about an inch, close doors to the room, and lower thermostat setting to 50-55ºF.

7. Let the sun shine in. Open curtains on south facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat the home, and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

8. Stay out of hot water. Water heating accounts for 15 percent of household energy use. Reduce water heating costs by lowering the water heater’s thermostat setting. Each 10ºF reduction can save between 3-5 percent in energy costs. Also insulate the hot water heater and hot water pipes.

9. Install storm windows over single-pane windows or replace them with Energy Star qualified windows. Storm windows reduce heat loss by 25 to 50 percent, and storm windows with low-e coating that reflect heat back into the room during the winter months save even more energy. Look for the Energy Star label to maximize savings. Energy Star qualified windows reduce heating and cooling bills by an average of $345, but could be higher in cold and hot climates, compared with uncoated, single-pane windows. Can’t afford new windows just now? Tape clear plastic sheeting to the inside of window frames if drafts, water condensation, or frost are present.

10. Net big savings with a little label. When replacing appliances, light bulbs, electronics, or heating and cooling systems, cut energy bills by up to 30 percent ($600 per year) with Energy Star labeled products. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in place of comparable incandescent bulbs. Find retailers at http://www.energystar.gov/.

These and other improvements that impact the energy efficiency of a home can save home owners money in the short term and serve as a selling point to potential buyers later. Be sure to save receipts, documentation, and manufacturer’s information.

Not sure where to begin? Try the Department of Energy's online energy audit tool at http://www.hes.lbl.gov/. In the long run, a whole-house energy audit is a fool proof way to make a plan to address wasted energy and make a home operate efficiently for years to come. Visit http://www.natresnet.org/ to find a qualified auditor in your neck of the woods.

Urgent, Urgent, Urgent...Info about today's market news!!!

2008-09-15T15:07:00.002-05:00

What does the recent news in the market mean for Bank of America and the market in general?

Consumers should be confident in the safety and soundness of the nation’s strongest banks – including Bank of America – as regulators take steps to react to issues affecting the industry.
Bank of America continues to be a strong and powerful company, as evidenced by our recent acquisition of Merrill Lynch. We have leadership positions in three key consumer products (Deposits, Card and Mortgage), an unparalleled distribution network and the leading financial brand.
The Lehman Brothers announcement does not have any impact on Bank of America or Countrywide investment accounts, or on our ability to open or service deposit, card or mortgage accounts.
Bank of America remains very well-positioned to provide the financial safety and stability our customers have come to expect from us.

Customer Q&A:

What does the market volatility mean for the banking industry?

Consumers should continue to be confident in the safety and soundness of the nation’s strongest banks – including Bank of America – as regulators take steps to monitor and react to issues affecting the industry.

Is Bank of America in any financial danger?

Bank of America is the most profitable bank in the United States, and has more capital than any bank in the country. We continue to be a strong and powerful company, as evidenced by our recent acquisition of Merrill Lynch. Bank of America has leadership positions in three key consumer products (Deposits, Card and Mortgage), an unparalleled distribution network and the leading financial brand.

Are any other financial institutions in danger?

We do not speculate about the safety or financial health of any other bank or financial institution.

What does Lehman Brothers’ announcement mean for Bank of America?

This announcement does not have any impact on Bank of America or Countrywide investment accounts, or on our ability to open or service deposit, card or mortgage accounts. We are well-positioned to respond to the impacts of institutions that are facing uncertain times and continue to focus our attention on working with customers to address their financial needs.

What does the Lehman Brothers’ announcement mean for my investment account?

Customers are encouraged to contact a Banc of America financial advisor or client manager to discuss account details.

Are Lehman Brothers customers able to open accounts and access their money at Bank of America?

Yes. Bank of America welcomes customers to use checks drawn on Lehman Brothers accounts, including cashier’s checks, to open new accounts or deposit funds into their existing Bank of America accounts. While we pride ourselves on the speed with which we make funds available to a customer, to help us protect customers and their finances, we do place extended holds on some large deposits, no matter which bank the check is drawn upon. Based on recent events, large deposits drawn on Lehman accounts will be subject to additional scrutiny and are likely to be held for an extended period (up to 11 days). We will continually assess the situation and adjust our policies to best help customers manage their financial well-being, in accordance with the guidance of the federal regulators.

Can you tell me if my accounts with Lehman Brothers are insured?

The FDIC guarantees all traditional types of deposit accounts (checking, savings, trust, money market, CDs) up to $100,000 and IRAs up to $250,000. Investment products (mutual funds, annuities, life insurance policies, stocks and bonds) are not FDIC insured, may lose value, and are not guaranteed. However, most brokerage accounts have insurance through the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) that protects customers if the broker fails. We cannot know the extent of the coverage you have, and suggest you contact them directly with specific questions.

Get the house ready for back to school time...

2008-09-04T16:30:00.002-05:00

Well it's that time again.....back to school time! Okay, okay, so I can't exactly go to school. Mom says it's because I'm too cute and would put the other kids to shame! I have to modestly agree! So I'm not heading off to school but my mom and dad are actually going back to school. They decided to continue their education by taking a Spanish class. They both want to learn a second language and also know it will benefit their businesses.

As they and many other people prepare to start school I thought it would be beneficial to post some tips on getting your home 'back-to-school' ready.With the start of school, families face new organization challenges.
School bells ring--and so do early-morning alarm clocks. Shorter autumn days bring a hectic round of sports, activities and events, and calendars fill with cryptic notes.
Can the holidays be far behind?
Get organized now for the best school year ever!
Use these ideas to prepare your home and family for the busy days ahead:
Create Calendar Central

Nothing calms school year chaos like Calendar Central: a centralized site for all family calendars and schedules. You'll need a family event calendar to track after-school activities, school programs and volunteer work. Add specialized calendars and schedules, and you have it: a one-stop shop for family time management.

Ease the family into a school year schedule.

Re-introduce a school year bedtime. Begin waking late sleepers earlier and earlier, closer to the hour they'll need to rise when school begins.
Don't neglect mealtimes! Younger children, in particular, need to adapt to new meal routines before the school day demands it of them. Plan meals and snacks to accustom little ones to rituals of the school day before the school year begins.

Take aim on morning madness

Each evening, think ahead to the following morning. Set the breakfast table as you clear the dinner dishes. Lay out children's clothing the night before. Multi-child households may need a bathroom schedule so that everyone gets equal time before the mirror.

Spiff up household systems

A new school year quickens the tempo of family life. Sports activities, music lessons, church programs and volunteer commitments tap parental time and put new mileage on the mini-van.
Get organized! Spiff up your household systems to meet autumn's faster pace"
Take a stab at speed cleaning and whip through household chores in record time.
Cut time in the kitchen: create a menu plan and never again wonder "What's for dinner?"
Try a session of freezer cooking and stock the freezer with prepared meals for stress-free dinners on sports nights
Happy New School Year! Time to swing into a new school year--from an organized home.

Have a great Labor Day holiday weekend!

2008-08-28T09:12:00.002-05:00

My mom, dad and I want to wish you a happy, healthy and safe Labor Day holiday weekend! See you next week!

Great news for first time homebuyers!!!

2008-08-18T11:17:00.003-05:00

New tax credit for 'first-time' home buyers

The new housing-relief bill will give some people an opportunity to hit a tax trifecta.

Homeowners already enjoyed the ability to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes. They also have an opportunity to exclude capital-gains tax on most if not all profits on a primary residence.

Now there's a new credit or dollar-for-dollar tax reduction for "first-time" homebuyers - a valuable break that will help a lot of people get in the door.

The homebuyer tax credit is a big part of the housing-relief legislation passed by Congress and signed by President Bush. At an estimated cost of $4.8 billion over 10 years, it amounts to nearly one-third of the $15.1 billion in total incentives.

Already, real estate groups are praising the legislation, which also strives to help imperiled borrowers refinance into government-backed mortgages, shore up Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and more.

"This is the most important housing bill in a generation, " said Keiran Quinn, chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association. "The tax incentives will encourage potential buyers to get off the sidelines and help stabilize home prices." Gannett News Service

****For more detailed information on this credit contact Tifani at (920) 279-1213 or Tifani@TifaniAndCompany.com.

Treading Water

2008-07-12T13:16:00.003-05:00

My mom and dad thought it would be real cute to put me in the water with them the other day. First off, I'm not a swimmer. I like to stay looking cute at all times. Secondly, swimming means a bath....ugh! They know I love boating but keep me at least 10 feet away from the water! Oh the stress.......

I'm sure the stress of me treading water is similar to those people facing foreclosure on their home. Okay, treading water may not be anywhere near as stressful but you have to remember I'm a DOG!!!

I thought I'd offer up some advice for those people who are nearing the big 'F' word.

Some homeowners who are three months to a year behind on their mortgages have chosen to leave their homes altogether. Anyone can walk away from a house — even a retired baseball great, Jose Canseco, who abandoned his Encino (Calif.) property earlier this year.

But attractive as "just walking away" may seem to a homeowner at the end of his or her financial tether, leaving a property to the mortgage-holder or other interested parties carries a serious credit risk and significant legal responsibility.

It's a good idea to call the person you may least want to talk to: The lender. Cash-strapped homeowners can get forbearance from their lender if they act early. This agreement reduces or suspends the mortgage payment for a limited time, giving homeowners a temporary reprieve.

A forbearance is not the same as loan forgiveness. Ultimately the mortgage payments have to be reinstated, and anywhere from three to six months of missed payments have to be accounted for. The very lucky — and reasonably well-off — can pay off the amount accumulated during forbearance in one lump sum. But for those who still find themselves in short-term financial trouble, most lenders offer specialized payment plans in which the borrower agrees to add a portion of the missed payments to the mortgage until the account is current.

Speaking directly to a lender seems logical enough. But surprisingly, homeowners who struggle and fail to meet their mortgage payments month after month rarely contact their lenders. And the further they fall behind, the less likely they are to reach out for help.

Walking away from a mortgage severely damages your credit and is not a good solution. If you're in trouble, TALK TO YOUR LENDER!

There are other ways to solve things and prevent ruining your financial future as opposed to walking away from your mortgage. Talk to my mom. She'll help you in any way she can with ideas and suggestions you can try.

It's my birthday!!!

2008-06-19T14:24:00.002-05:00

Well it's my 8th birthday today! I have no intention of working today or answering any real estate questions for my mom! It's party time!!!

I have two things I want for my birthday this year...........TREATS and BABIES!!! I like to rip the heads off my 'babies' (stuffed animals) and eat the whole box of treats. Oh, how I LOVE birthdays! I know daddy will hook me up later with something off his plate...yay!

I'll talk real estate tomorrow.....today I'm busy ; )! See ya!

I'm Bored!

2008-06-04T14:18:00.004-05:00

As the weather has been getting nicer I've been getting a case of cabin fever. I'm ready to get out and do something!! I've been listening to my mom and dad talk and they said that gas prices are really high and it's hurting a lot of families financially. This got me to thinking about things we can all do that are close by and not that expensive. Here's what I came up with...

Go to Menominee Park. It's filled with fun things to do like the zoo, bumper & paddle boats, playground, beach, a train ride and lots of picnic areas.

The Gallery Walk which is the 1st Saturday of every month. You get to see what downtown has to offer while looking at art.

Live at Lunch which is on Wednesday's downtown near the sundial. You can eat lunch while listening to area bands.

The Farmer's Market. This is every Saturday once summer begins. Dad likes to buy mom flowers here because they're cheap but very pretty!

Area softball games. You can find a softball game most nights of the week at many of our area parks. There's nothing like America's past time!

WaterFest on Thursday's! Listen to live music and people watch!

The Speedzone. They have auto racing every Friday night. Mom thinks it's loud but dad likes the cars.

Ripon Good Cookies. Take a trip to Ripon for a taste of cookie heaven!

Tour a cheese factory. Get to know why Wisconsin is the dairy state. You can take a short trip to Freemont and tour Union Star Cheese Factory.

Go fishing. The Fox Valley area is surrounded by beautiful bodies of water. Take advantage of it!

Here are a few websites filled with many more ideas for what to do this summer. Here ya go!

http://www.travelwisconsin.com/

http://www.oshkoshevents.com/

http://www.wiparks.net/

http://www.savorwisconsin.com/

Time to spiff up the curb appeal...

2008-05-09T16:26:00.004-05:00

My mom and dad are in the process of updating the exterior of our house. They've been doing quite a bit of stuff but the thing mom likes the most are the flowers they planted. She said it adds curb appeal. I wasn't sure what that meant so I did some research and found out what a great thing curb appeal is....especially for mom's sellers.

Flowers are one of the easiest and least expensive ways to make the front of your house look inviting and instantly increase the curb appeal of your home. Without any real landscaping at all, flowers can transform a rather drab and dreary looking front yard into one that looks colorful and lush. Especially during spring and summer, you should take advantage of the season by planting pots and flower boxes.

You should choose colorful flowers that will be in bloom during the time you're selling your home. Planting the flowers in planter boxes and pots is easier than planting them in the ground and lets you more easily place them where they can have the most visual impact. You don't need to have a green thumb, or spend a lot of money to get great results either. Visit your local home improvement center or nursery and they will be happy to advise you of the best flowers and plants for your purpose. You can put together several very nice planter boxes and pots of flowers for well under $100. And it's easy!

One of the nice things about using flowers in this way is that you'll see the results immediately. And so will buyers visiting your home!

I think my car trips with mom are over....

2008-05-05T12:15:00.002-05:00

I'm a little depressed. My mom and dad usually take me with them to run errands throughout town and I LOVE it! I get to bark at everyone in their cars and see tons of fun stuff...it's a blast. My mom said that since gas prices are so high that she wouldn't be going on as many errands in the car. Instead, my mom bought a brand new bike. She said she's going to be biking to places that are close and only driving to places that she absolutely has to. Bummer....and her bike doesn't even have a basket for me!

As I sat pondering all of this I decided to do some research and find out who else is getting a little tired of paying more and more money every single time you have to stop at the gas pump to fill up? Although not directly related to the real estate or mortgage industries, continually rising gas prices are hurting us all.

Gas prices are up 19.9% from what they were last year. A month ago, the nationwide average was $3.246 a gallon.

Gasoline prices normally rise during the spring as people travel more. However, the record pump prices have also been supported by high crude prices as shrinking profit margins cause refiners to pull back on production.

Higher gas prices are affecting (although not directly) our children as well. The cost to fuel the buses that carry children back and forth to school has jumped 35% over the same time a year ago, and that's 35% less money schools have for teachers, computers, and whatever else our children need to become well educated.

It seems higher gas prices have affected more and more industries including the airline and mid-to large sized automobile industries.

I wonder if mom and dad will take the boat out as much this year? I love going on the boat with them.

Where will it all end? I just want to get back to the good ole' days with car rides with my mom and dad.

Time to put the dock in...

2008-04-22T11:54:00.004-05:00

We're moving into my favorite time of the year...WARMER WEATHER! I can't wait to lay in the sun, go for walks, smell all the food cooking on the grill, and my absolute favorite....go on the boat with my mom and dad! I LOVE it!

My mom had to work all weekend so I spent time with my dad helping him put the dock in. Well truthfully, I am a princess so actually, I watched the dock being put in. The guys got most of it in but still have a little bit left to go.

I listen to my mom talk to the neighbors about some new regulations that the DNR is trying to have imposed. It sounds like quite the controversy but my mom isn't worried about anything yet.

I wanted to make sure our dock is the appropriate regulation size so I looked on the DNR website and found the size restrictions. I thought I'd pass the information along in case you wanted to know.

Length and width of piers
• A pier may extend out to the 3-foot water depth, or to adequate depth for mooring a boat or using a boat lift or boat hoist. A pier may also extend out to a DNR-approved municipal pierhead line. Contact the municipality to see whether it has a pierhead line ordinance.
• Six feet is the maximum width allowed for any portion of a pier or wharf. This width allows safe loading of gear and passengers, and meets ADA requirements.
• Piers may be placed in a variety of configurations, including straight, or with a "T" or "L". Catwalks, finger piers or similar features may be used for access to boat slips, as long as they meet the width and length limits above. A pier may not enclose or isolate any part of a waterway.

You can find more information at http://dnr.wi.gov/.

Rain, rain go away.....

2008-04-17T18:37:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know we've had a couple of nice days but now more rain is on the way. UGH! I'm ready to chase squirrels, the neighbor's cats and all the ducks in my backyard!

My mom has been showing many homes with water in the basements and is ready for this rain to quit too.

It got me to thinking though. A lot of times, water in basements can be prevented with just a few simple 'fixes'.

Start by sloping the ground away from the outside foundation (should be about one inch per foot). Extend the slope for at least ten feet. Seed it with a good lawn grass. Sodding is a common practice and prevents the washing away of newly graded areas during heavy rains. Where a large area of land slopes toward the house, surface drainage should be intercepted and rerouted some distance from the house. Dig a shallow, half-round drainage ditch or depression designed to route the water around the house. Sod the ditch or plant grass in it. If even a shallow ditch is objectionable, drainage tiles, with one or more catch basins at low spots, may be installed.

Next you can install gutters and downspout's wherever needed. Keep them free of debris. Where leaves and twigs from nearby trees may collect in a gutter, install a basket-shaped wire strainer over the downspout outlet or place screening across the length of the gutter. Repair gutters and downspout's as soon as the need appears. To prevent concentration of water at the point of discharge, use a concrete gutter or splash block to carry the water away at a slope of one inch per foot. Roof water can also be piped underground to a storm drain, dry well, or surface outlet fifteen feet or more from the house.

Trim heavy growths of shrubbery so that soil gets more sunlight and dries quicker. When digging up the plantings, remove any pieces of masonry, mortar, or other waste material buried near the house after the basement was excavated.

Windows or parts of windows below grade should be protected by metal or masonry window wells, with bottoms consisting of gravel to permit good drainage. Clear plastic bubbles are available to cover the entire window well like an awning.

Lastly, you can apply waterproofing paint the the basement walls.

Start by doing these simple things and I bet it will solve a lot problems. Here comes more rain....

Vacation and Second Homes...

2008-04-07T16:40:00.006-05:00

My mom and dad abandoned me and went to Sedona, Arizona for a few days. I can't believe they didn't take me with them.....AGAIN! While I stayed at grandma's house I decided to research the second and vacation homes market. It was interesting what I found so I decided to share it with you.

The combined total of vacation- and investment-home sales declined with the overall market in 2007, but still accounted for 33 percent of all existing- and new-home sales, which is close to historic norms, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The market share of homes purchased for investment last year was 21 percent, down from 22 percent in 2006, while another 12 percent were vacation homes, compared with a 14 percent market share in 2006. The total share of second homes declined from 36 percent of transactions in 2006.

NAR’s annual Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey shows vacation-home sales dropped 30.6 percent to 740,000 in 2007 from a record 1.07 million in 2006, while investment-home sales fell 18.1 percent to 1.35 million last year from 1.65 million in 2006. At the same time, primary residence sales declined 10.0 percent to 4.34 million in 2007 from 4.82 million in 2006.

The median price of a vacation home was $195,000 in 2007, down 2.5 percent from $200,000 in 2006. The typical investment property cost $150,000 last year, unchanged from 2006.

Fifty-nine percent of vacation homes purchased in 2007 were detached single-family homes, 29 percent condos, 7 percent townhouses or rowhouses, and 5 percent other. In 2006, single family homes accounted for 67 percent of vacation-home sales, while condos were 21 percent. (information taken from NAR)

Maggie's Answering Your Questions...

2008-03-24T14:06:00.005-05:00

I've been very busy lately helping my mom by answering questions from buyers and sellers. I thought I'd post what seem to be the most popular questions from buyers and sellers. If you have any questions you'd like to ask e-mail my mom at Tifani@TifaniAndCompany.com and I'll make sure they get answered!

Can you negotiate the price of a bank owned home?
Everything in real estate is negotiable. However, banks are more sophisticated about pricing than they were years ago. So those "Get a great deal on a foreclosure!" days aren't what they used to be. Lowball offers generally don't go very far.

I need to buy a house with a good resale value. How do I determine if my house will increase in value within the next five years so that we can upgrade? I can buy a smaller house in a great location or get twice as much house in a good location. Which is a wiser decision?
It's like buying stocks. How do you really know which ones will increase most in value over the next five years? As with any investment, there are risks.
The most often quoted rule is that location is the most important factor.You want to make sure that the house does not back to busy streets and is as close to the interior of the tract as possible. Avoid corners and intersections. Choose the middle of the block or a cul de sac. You'll want to be sure it has at least two bathrooms (if you are buying in an older area).
Sometimes it is just timing that works out best for you. For example, if you buy a home before a major surge in local prices.

Is there a percentage a seller will mark up the price of a home? For example, if the asking price is $114,000 is an initial offer of $95,000 too low?
Although you can always offer whatever you want, yes, $95,000 is generally too low too offer for a home priced at $114,000.
It's like buying a car. You want to dicker with the salesman a little, but there is more room to dicker on a more expensive car than if you were going in and buying the least expensive car.
Sellers usually mark up the price a little because they realize most buyers aren't going to make a full price offer (though in different markets you can get offers ABOVE the listing price). In your example above, you were offering almost 15% below the listing price. They don't mark it up that much, just a few percent.
Before you make an offer, get your Realtor to go over the comparable sales of other similar homes in the same neighborhood. That is the same data the seller looked at when he priced his house, too. Make certain allowance for whether houses are selling briskly or slowly, and make an offer based on that data.
Note: When you look at comparable sales, you don't know for sure if the seller paid closing costs for the buyer or provided some other financing incentive, so keep that in mind.

Can you negotiate when making an offer on a new home?
Making an offer on new construction is not the same as making an offer on a resale. Most of the time, the margin for profit is so small on new construction (per unit) that there is basically little or no negotiating. You can try, of course, because "everything in real estate is negotiable," but do not expect too much.

I have a family friend who is a Realtor. I like her and she is a help but she gives me one price to sell my home for and I think it is too low. So I called another agent who suggested a price more in line with my expectations. Who do I choose?
It could be that your friend is being more honest with you about the value of your home and the other Realtor gave you a higher number because he already knew you expected it. This is called "Buying a Listing". Some Realtors will tell you the price you want to hear just to get the listing. You might want to consult a couple more Realtors on the market value of your home. Most estimates should be in the same ballpark.

From the Wesner Family

2008-03-21T17:53:00.003-05:00

From our family to yours......we hope you have a very blessed and happy Easter.

I'm Getting Older....

2008-03-14T13:14:00.002-05:00

As I laid back today and pondered my getting up there in age (I'm seven) I realized I needed to start doing some things to keep my youthful appearance. I need to cut back on the treats, quit laying around so much and UNFORTUNATELY keep my hair looking cute by going to my stylist (groomer or whatever it's called).

This got me to thinking about offering up some advice to potential home sellers. If you're thinking of selling your home and your home is over 10 years old, you need to consider doing some updating. Updating a home will make it much more appealing to buyers. The updates don't need to be large or expensive ones either.

Start by updating all of the light & outlet plate fixtures. This is something you use everyday but don't 'see' anymore. Buyers will take notice however.

Next, check out your lighting fixtures throughout the home. If your lights haven't been updated in awhile it may be time to change them to something a bit more modern. If you don't have the money to update all of the rooms focus on the kitchen and bathrooms. Keeping these two rooms updated will add more value to your home.

Speaking of the kitchen and bathrooms, take a look at your sink faucets. Again, if these fixtures are more than 10 years old replace them with new ones. It's an inexpensive update that will appeal to buyers.

Start with these small and easy updates. They will add more appeal to the home and it's one less thing a buyer will have to do when they move in. Even if you have an older home these simple things will make it look new again!

Check Your Credit Before You Buy...

2008-03-11T16:49:00.002-05:00

While my mom's been out listing and showing homes I've had a lot of time on my hands. I've been making a list of things for new buyers to do before deciding to purchase a home. With interest rates at historically low levels, now is the time to buy a home but it also may be a bit more difficult to get approved for a loan. However, buyer's can now check their credit rating for free prior to speaking with a bank.

Did you know that you can request a free credit report? Yes, you can get a free credit report - you heard it here! A recent amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. There is only one online source authorized to do so. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers who order their free annual credit report online to be sure to order only from the site below. Beware of other sites that may look and sound similar. It is a good idea to get a copy of your credit report and review it for accuracy. Wrong information can hurt you in many ways. Be cautious of identify theft also. That is http://www.annualcreditreport.com/ or by calling 1-877-323-8228You can also link to it from http://www.ftc.gov/.

Once you know your credit rating you can feel confident about getting pre-qualified for a loan from your bank and then be able to look for your dream home with my mom!

I'm Moving!!

2008-03-05T19:56:00.004-06:00

Okay, so I really can't take this weather any longer. I've been house bound since November and I'm over the snow, the ice and the cold...over it! I've gotten fat and lazy and I can't take it anymore. So I've decided it's time to pack it up and hit the road.

I'd like my mom and dad to come along so I started to look at real estate markets all around the globe. After looking at different places my mom could work I realized that most countries weren't doing much better than the United States. Here's what I found...

Housing Outlook in Great Brittan Figures published yesterday by Nationwide, the second-biggest mortgage lender, showed that house prices fell by 0.5% in February, causing annual house-price growth to dip sharply to 2.7%, down from 4.2% in January. The value of the average house has fallen for four consecutive months and the latest signs indicate that the UK housing market is on the brink of a major decline.
Housing Outlook in Australia The Real Estate Institute of Australia said housing affordability was at its worst since it began keeping records 22 years ago. The average Australian family can no longer afford the average home mortgage, according to new figures that paint a devastating picture of how unaffordable housing has become in cities like Sidney and Melbourne. Some are saying that the Australia’s housing price bubble is at least 50% larger than America’s.
Housing Outlook South Africa Standard Bank said in its monthly report yesterday that the short-term outlook for residential property remained bleak. Year-on-year growth in South African residential property prices was flat for the third straight month in February and was expected to be noticeably lower in 2008 than the 8.3% percent annual growth recorded last year.
Currently the Best Housing Markets The strongest real estate market appears to be Singapore with China, India and South-East Asia also emerging as big property growth centers.

I don't really feel like moving all the way to China just to avoid this weather. Plus, it sounds like it would be tough for mom to make it in other real estate markets right now. Oh gosh...I'll guess I'll go hibernate until this weather goes away.

Is it spring yet?????

2008-02-13T20:32:00.005-06:00

First off, I know it's been awhile since I've posted to my blog. I'm sorry about that. I've been a bit depressed. My 'Mommy Dearest' made me get a haircut and I look like a boy! To top it off, my 'hair stylist' had the nerve to put a bow in my hair. I tried all day to get it out. I hate bows like I hate the sweaters mommy makes me wear sometimes. I don't look as cute with this short hair. Oh well, it will grow back.

I don't know why she had my hair cut now. I've been shivering my buns off with this horrible, arctic weather. I can't wait until spring.

Speaking of spring....it's almost baseball time!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT!!!! We all love baseball in this family! We're counting down the days! Go BREWERS!!!!

Major Disaster!

2008-01-26T16:45:00.000-06:00

Well she did it again! My mom really has a serious problem! She decided to surprise my dad by making homemade chocolate chip cookies. It took her like two hours just to get all the ingredients together. She had already baked two trays of cookies before she decided to try the cookie dough. The next thing I know, my mom is spitting out the cookie dough and crying her eyes out. I heard her on the phone with grandma and she said she put 2 tbls of salt in the cookies instead of 1/2 tsp of salt. Oh boy! How can anyone screw that up?!? So much for daddy's surprise!! Maybe she should get out of the kitchen and just stick to what she knows best....real estate! I sure am glad that she didn't feed me any cookie dough....yuck!

Blah, blah, blah......

2008-01-23T10:05:00.000-06:00

I wish my mom would settle down. She's just too hyper lately. She keeps talking about how low the interest rates are and what a great time it is to buy houses. She said she hasn't seen interest rates like this in years. To me it's just blah, blah, blah.....just give me some treats and leave me alone! The only excitement I've had lately is watching American Idol. I can't believe how awful some of the people sing on that show. Maybe I should try out.....I've never seen someone as cute as me on that show. Hmmm.....

What song should I sing? Maybe 'Who Let the Dogs Out?' or 'Hound Dog'??? What do you think?

I'm mad as all you know what!

2008-01-13T16:20:00.000-06:00

I'm completely ignoring my mom and dad! They tricked me and I'm ready to run away to Grandma's house! First off, they told me I was getting to go 'bye bye' with them and they know I LOVE getting to go anywhere around town with them. Then I saw mommy getting my DREADED sweater and scarf out....I knew something was not right. They know I HATE being dressed up in sweaters, shirts, jackets, etc. Mommy started to grab for me but I knew she was going to dress me up. I took off!

Mommy and Daddy had to chase me all over the house before they cornered me. They forced the jacket and scarf on me. This is not the worst of things though. I watched mommy and daddy get all bundled up and put their snowboots on. I knew I was in for something miserable! Well I was right......mommy and daddy picked me up and headed for the backyard. The only thing that's in our backyard is the frozen Lake Winnebago. I realized that we were all going walking on the lake. Are they CRAZY???? So they tricked me. Getting to go 'bye bye' means going in their warm car and driving around NOT FREEZING my tail off with a stupid jacket on!! UGH! I'm so mad at them.

Can I Come Stay With You????

2008-01-11T11:56:00.000-06:00

Oh my gosh! I'm freezing!! Mommy and Daddy's furnace broke today and I'm not sure if it's colder in our house or outside. Mommy bundled me up but it's not helping much. We're waiting on the furnace guy to come and fix it. I guess I won't try to kill the furnace guy when he comes in my house. I usually don't like ANY strange people but I might be nice to this person if he can warm our house up. I wish he'd get here! I can hardly write my blog. Well I guess I'm going to get back under my blanket until the furnace guy comes. Be back when I'm warmer....

Santa was good to me....

2008-01-03T13:37:00.000-06:00

I had the best Christmas this year! I got to celebrate it at grandma's house and then again when mommy and daddy came back from Arkansas. I got so many toys and treats and everyone spoiled me rotten! I didn't want it to end.

Mommy said I have to go on a diet now because grandma fed me too much. Well little does she know that daddy sneaks me table food all of the time....I think mommy's cooking makes him sick. Let's just keep that between us, okay??!!

I guess I'm ready for a little peace and quiet though. I'm going to lay by the fire in my new pink blanket that Santa got me. Be back soon....

To Grandma's House I Go.....

2007-12-17T14:00:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited! I'm off to grandma's house for a few days. Mommy's going back to her home state of Arkansas over Christmas. I'd be very sad that mommy's leaving me but I LOVE going to grandma's! She gives me tons of treats and holds me on her lap all of the time! Mommy gets mad at grandma when she picks me up from her house though. She says grandma shouldn't feed me from the table and that I feel heavier and look fatter than I should. What?!? I look FAT??? I call that extra padding through the cold, winter months! Here I come grandma! Get my treats ready! This is a picture of grandma and me! She's the best!

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas! I'll be back after I get home from grandma's house!

I'm so proud of my mom!

2007-12-07T13:36:00.000-06:00

I have to brag on my mom a little bit! She's done so many nice things for the community. She loves to help people and she tries to make a difference in small ways. This fall she donated school supplies to local schools to help kids who don't have enough money to buy them themselves. She and daddy organized a neighborhood food drive to donate to the Salvation Army in time for Thanksgiving and then they donated a gift for a family from church who don't have money for Christmas. Now she just purchased toys for the kindergarten and first grade classes at one of Oshkosh's most needy schools. Mommy's company, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, 'adopted' a family who needed basic things for their family like jackets, cleaning supplies and clothes. That family will have a great Christmas this year thanks to mommy and everyone else at Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group who helped them out.

My mom and dad are really grateful for all they have and want to give back to others. My mom has taught me that it's good to give during the holidays but it's also good to help others all year round.

Okay, I'm done bragging now. Maybe my mom will give me an extra treat for writing this!

I think my mom is crazy!

2007-12-06T17:56:00.000-06:00

My mom has really lost it! She was out showing houses all morning. Doesn't she know that it was 7 below??? She HATES cold weather! What was she thinking?!?! I would rather hold my bladder all day than go outside to 'do my business'.....ugh! The only reason I stepped my paws outside is because I get Scooby Snacks for 'doing my business' and I LOVE Scooby Snacks! Mommy tried to put a sweater on me once and I almost took her hand off. I do not like being dressed up! I'm cute enough as it is.....I don't need stupid clothes.
Mommy spent the rest of the day working on her new advertising campaign that kicks off in January. I can't wait until she's done....that's all she's been doing lately. I know she's excited though. I love my mommy even if she was a bit crazy today for going out in this weather!

I'm Pooped!

2007-12-05T20:15:00.000-06:00

I'm so exhausted! Mommy and Daddy had a Christmas party last night for people mommy works with. Mommy baked cookies all day for the party and didn't give me one bite! I'm secretly glad she didn't because I would have probably gotten sick from the way mommy cooks! Don't tell her I said that. Daddy gave me some treats off his plate though....I love my dad!
Mommy and Daddy had to work all day so I finally got some sleep! If I don't get my beauty rest I feel like taking someone's head off. Daddy said I'm a lot like mommy. I don't think mommy's supposed to know that either.
Well I better get going....I hear the garage door opening. I think mommy's home from work!