Green County Wisconsin Home Guide

2011-12-05T07:04:00.001-08:00

A Confluence of Positive Factors

The Wall Street Journal recently reported that home affordability is at its highest level in years; this degree of affordability becomes more apparent when compared to rent prices, which continue to rise across the country.

Meanwhile, ADP 's National Employment Report showed another month of strong job growth, with the private-sector adding 206,000 new jobs for November. Accelerating job growth usually portends a strong (at least stronger) economy.

Accelerating job growth combined with a historically high affordability index suggests to us that this is the near-perfect time to buy or refinance a home, because we doubt that affordability will remain this high at the end of 2012.

The fact is that bloated inventory levels are falling, and falling inventory in many markets has spurred bidding wars. As the economy continues to improve, inventory will become less bloated and prices and financing costs will rise. It's always worth remembering that the best time to buy is when enough clouds remain to permeate the market with at least some pessimism, because the best deals are only found when the future is still clouded by uncertainty. When the clouds clear, so will the high affordability index.

Today, we have low home prices, low mortgage rates, and more job growth. In our opinion, this is the perfect time to buy or refinance, because continued job growth, a rising stock market, and a growing economy means higher home prices and higher lending rates in the future.

2011-11-01T05:25:00.001-07:00

What is a Short Sale? Why do it?

A Short Sale is when the lender of record agrees to discount their payoff on the sale of a house when:

The borrower has experienced hardship and is unable to repay the mortgage.
The value is proven to be less than the amount needed to pay off all loans, encumbrances and real estate selling costs.
The loan is delinquent or in default.

Often a house in which the proceeds of a sale will fall short of what the home owner still owes on the mortgage, lenders will accept the lesser proceeds as a short sale. By doing this the lender forgives the balance of the mortgage and thereby avoids a lengthy and costly foreclosure procedure.
How do Sellers Benefit from a Short Sale?

The seller can avoid having a “foreclosure” on their credit report. Most lenders tend to report “settled” upon successful closing of a short sale.
Assuming the seller is already not making mortgage payments, they can continue to live in the property and not make payments during the lengthy short sales

Most sellers feel it is the “right thing to do” when in default. They tend to feel that walking away from the house is irresponsible. It’s a respectable option

2011-10-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Home
There are many issues to evaluate when considering a home purchase including what you can afford, what kind of loan best suits you, the property itself and once you find your dream house, how much you are willing to pay for it.
How Much Can You Afford?
Before starting your search for a home, you must decide how much you can afford. Generally speaking, it is recommended that the down payment be a minimum of 5-20% of the purchase price. In addition, there are two other standard thresholds to consider in terms of how much of your monthly income should be spent on housing.
• Your total housing costs (mortgage, interest, property taxes, insurance) should not exceed 28% of your income.
• The combination of your housing costs and all other monthly debt (car loans, student loans, etc.) should not exceed 36% of your income.

2011-07-15T11:51:00.001-07:00

Priced to move quickly is this beautiful waterfront home.
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2011-07-15T11:50:00.001-07:00

Great home for only $92,500 Ready to move-in
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2011-07-15T10:48:00.001-07:00

Unique Frank Lloyd Wright Taliesen architect James R. Dresser designed home

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2011-07-15T10:46:00.001-07:00

Open House at a beautiful Log Home w/ 20ac in the rolling hills of Lafayette co. Sat. July 16th 11-1pm. 4500 Hwy 81 near Argyle Wi.

2011-07-13T11:25:00.001-07:00

Selling Tip. De-Clutter!
we collect an amazing quantity of junk. Consider this: if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it. I know maybe someday you will need it, but moving time is let go time.
If you don't need it, donate it or throw it away?
Think of this process as a head-start on the packing you will eventually need to do anyway.

2011-06-15T09:01:00.001-07:00

Looking for a great way to enhance the saleability of your home? Head outdoors, if you love the great outdoors, you’re not alone. Outdoor living is one of the fastest-growing segments of the remodeling market.
One reason that outdoor living is so popular is that it expands living area at minimal cost. Leading the way to this low-cost pursuit of leisure is the patio. Maybe you should consider this for your home.

2011-06-13T08:51:00.001-07:00

Need to re-shingle your roof consider dimensional shingles. They add teture to your home and buyers like them. Some big names are Certainteed, Owens Corning, Atlas. A decent 30 to 35 year (warranty) shingle is going anywhere from 75-85 dollars a bundle. This is just for the shingles. Typically a bundle of shingles cover about 33 square feet if you want to give yourself some kind of idea on a price you will be looking at.

2011-06-10T10:33:00.001-07:00

Home yard care. Many people mow their lawn too short and effectively kill it in the process. Your lawn is a plant, and like all plants it needs some of that green stuff called leaves in order to continue to survive and flourish. 2" is low enough. Brown yards with do not show well.

2011-06-08T08:20:00.001-07:00

A USDA Rural Development meeting on Guaranteed Housing Loans.

It was very informative and provided some new insights into the USDA GRH program for the rest of this year and into the future.
Here are some of the highlights:
USDA GRH is still one of the only programs to allow buyers to purchase a home with 100% financing. VA is the only other program that will allow for 100% financing.
There is no maximum purchase price with RGH, no reserve requirement, and it is not limited to 1st time home buyers
Borrowers with credit scores as low as 620 can be accepted into this program
Borrowers can use RGH loans for new construction, purchasing ½ of a zero lot line duplex, and one unit condos
There WILL be plenty of USDA funds available to guarantee all GRH purchases for fiscal year 2011
USDA RGH will have $24 billion in available funds for fiscal year 2012 (beginning October 1, 2011)

2011-05-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

There are now over 375 homes for sale in Green County, and they are starting to move. The low interest rates continue to help make owning a home very affordable. Call me to help you find that special place. 608-214-9844

2011-05-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

One of the least desired resale upgrades. Whirlpool baths, and indoor hot tubs
Once considered chic, these are now often seen as just expensive, energy-guzzling extras. But boy can they sooth an sore back.
A surprising top ten resale upgrade. The Front porch
Two or three decades ago, tearing off front porches became fashionable, but now they're back in a big way. If you can, add a full front porch (or replace/repair the one you have if it isn't in top condition)

2011-04-20T10:12:00.001-07:00

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2011-04-18T14:27:00.001-07:00

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2011-04-06T05:42:00.001-07:00

Want to sell your home? Bake something that smells wonderful just before the house is shown. Baked cookies with chocolate leaves a great aroma in the house. Leave a couple out with a note for sampling. Baked bread is the old standby. Or try a sauce with fresh herbs and let it simmer just before they arrive so the rich smells permeate the air. Remember baking does not mean you don't have to clean, clean , clean.

2011-04-01T12:42:00.001-07:00

Consider having an inspection before you list your home. An inspection can break a deal. Even after they've fallen in love with your house, a buyer may decide foundation issues or faulty electrical are too much of a headache. The benefits of having an inspection done prior to listing is your buyers will be aware of what repairs are needed before they make an offer or you can choose to address these repairs and removed from the problems altogether.

2011-03-31T10:27:00.001-07:00

When it comes to selling homes this spring, buyers are still around, but sellers need to be aware of the fact that home buyers are looking for more value for their money than they once were. The simple fact that there are some many homes on the market for buyers to choose from has resulted in many home buyers becoming extremely picky. As a result, if a home seller wants to move their home in this market, they must learn to be flexible when it comes to matters of money and time. Let me guide you through the process. Scott Larson Realtor Monroe, WI. 608-214-9844 greencountyhomeguide.com

2011-03-22T14:22:00.001-07:00

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2011-03-09T14:28:00.001-08:00

Don’t let the Realtor buy your listing

This is fairly common occurrence. Realtors are fighting to get listings and they could tell you an unrealistic price for your home just so they list with you. Realtors either know that they are doing this or they are just horrible at pricing property. Make any agent you interview substantiate their valuation with market facts, data and trends. Often times, the Realtor with the lowest valuation is your best choice because they are most honest or most in tune with the market. Call Scott to give you an honest evaluation of your home. 608-214-9844

2011-03-09T07:43:00.001-08:00

Need a Realtor, hire the biggest producer?

Don’t assume that the highest producer is the best Realtor or gives the best service. Would you rather work with a good Realtor who has forty listings or a good Realtor that has ten? You probably will end up with better service with the Realtor that spread between only 10 listings. That is not always the case but this is what you can uncover when you interview them. A good Realtor works for you, not themselves. They make it their goal to find ways to make your plans a reality. Call Scott Larson today and give him an interview. 608-214-9844

2011-03-08T10:03:00.001-08:00

What is an Earnest Money Deposit?

It's a good faith deposit but not to be confused with a down payment. When buyers execute a purchase contract, the contract specifies how much money the buyer is initially putting up to secure the contract, to show "good faith," and how much money all together will be deposited as a down payment. The balance is generally financed as a mortgage or a combination of mortgages. An earnest money deposit says to the seller: "Yes, I am serious enough about buying your house that I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is."

2011-03-04T07:17:00.001-08:00

Something I saw from a fellow blogger that I thought would be interesting
Times have changed drastically over the last several years. Many people have been forced to move back home with their parents after college due to a lack of job prospects or too much debt. Other people have made the choice to have their parents or other older relatives move in due to health problems. But these issues usually require extra space that may not be readily available. Thanks to the FHA 203K loan, people can now finance the home addition that they need.

Basics of FHA 203k Loans

Up until recently, people that wished to add on to their home or make extensive remodeling repairs either paid cash for the project or borrowed money from the equity in their home. The problem arose when people did not have sufficient equity to cover the excess cost. But the FHA 203k will allow people to refinance their existing loan and get an extra $35,000 to use for home repair or remodeling ($35,000 max for the streamline FHA 203k program. If you need more, ask about the full 203k).

FHA 203k Loan Requirements

The FHA 203k loan is set up in such a way that the borrower, as well as the lender is protected throughout the whole process. In order to get approved for the loan a licensed contractor will need to submit an estimate of the anticipated renovations. An appraiser will need to review the proposal and make an estimate as to the new value of the property after the remodel is complete. As an extra precaution the money used for the rehab work will be held in escrow until the contractor is finished.

For those individuals that have simply outgrown their existing space, this is a very affordable way to stay in their current home and make necessary additions. People that are now caring for elderly relatives in their own home will also appreciate the ability to use some funds to increase accessibility to the home for handicapped persons.

Please visit our FHA 203k loan page for additonal program details or contact me below.

Your local Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Florida mortgage banker

Dennis Hardy
NMLS ID 229455
Phone: 877-240-5810
dennis.hardy@madisonmortgageguys.com
www.madisonmortgageguys.com

2011-03-04T06:51:00.001-08:00

As we approach the edge of winter, and arrive upon the edge of spring, thoughts of selling your home tends to become stronger. March is here already, and if you are considering selling your home, you might want to do now

In my area, we are still experiencing a buyers market. Inventory is still up with more homes being added to the mix daily.

Be the tiger, attack your home selling plan with a purpose. Get the house ready and on the market before you have more competition to contend with. Get it ready to sell. Here are some tips that will get it ready to sell:

* Paint will go a long way to improving your homes appeal. Lighter more neutral colors are a safer choice, the brighter, bolder colors do not appeal to the masses.
* Don't forget to look up and paint the ceilings if needed.
* Clean your carpets, or replace them if they are in bad condition.
* Clean everything, and de-clutter as much as possible.
* Make space in your closets by removing any clothing that will not be needed until you move.
* Pack anything you do not need and label the boxes. When It comes time to move, you will be one step ahead of the packing process. Rent a storage unit to hold these items and extra furniture
* General repairs like dripping faucets, cracked molding, squeaky doors, anything that is broken or loose should be fixed.

2011-02-21T06:07:00.001-08:00

Sellers need to make sure they pick an agent who's educated about the current real estate market, NOT the one who is going to tell them what they want to hear, like a high asking price not supported by the comparables. In today's real estate market buyers are NOT going to over pay for a home and if they need financing their lender is going to make sure they are not over paying by having an appraisal done. Call Scott for more help at 608-214-9844

2011-02-16T07:03:00.001-08:00

The field of real estate is loaded with land mines. You need a true expert to guide you through the dangerous pitfalls that currently exist. Finding a buyer willing to pay fair market value for your home at a time that there are mass inventories of foreclosures and short sales will take a true real estate professional. Finding reasonable financing can also be tricky in today’s lending environment.
Allow me to help you navigate the shifting sands of realestate.

2011-02-16T06:51:00.001-08:00

Reason #4 Why buy NOW?
Your Dream Home Will Never Be Cheaper
If your family goal is to sell your current house and take advantage of the fabulous selection of properties currently available to buy the home of your dreams, DO IT NOW! Prices will continue to soften in most markets. However, if you are buying, COST should be more important than PRICE. Cost can be dramatically impacted by rising mortgage interest rates. Do the math and decide if now is the time.

2011-02-15T12:43:00.001-08:00

Buying a home? What repairs is the home in need of? This is a question that many buyers do not stop to think about until the home is purchased and they are moving in. Your Realtor should suggest on the offer to purchase that you hire a home inspector. In many cases, an inspection will catch hidden flaws that the eye can’t see, but even an inspector might miss something. Be careful when you are buying homes that you do not get into something that is more work than it is worth. You are making a huge investment and you do not want to spend all that money on something that will cost you thousands to repair.
Call Scott Larson of Towne Square Realtors for assistance 608-214-9844

2011-02-15T12:32:00.001-08:00

Reason #4 Why use a Realtor
Paperwork by the volumes is part of the job description of the Realtor. If anyone tells you they do not have to go through a lot of paperwork they would be lying. Volumes of papers must be gone through to make everything is perfect before a contract can be executed. This is a part of our job that is very time consuming. Many people would not choose handle this and that is why they hire a professional to take care of it.

2011-02-10T14:30:00.001-08:00

Despite the rising number of renters across the country, it is cheaper to buy a home rather than rent one in 72 percent of the 50 largest cities in the U.S., according to an index released by real estate search and marketing site Trulia.

2011-02-09T12:40:00.001-08:00

If you are painting for resale here's what new for 2011
It’s amazing how colors can both affect our mood and represent the world around us at the same time.
Four trends :
Farm
Order
Escape
Tribe
I’ll do my best to describe them here.
Farm
Yes, there is a return to farm-inspired colors. It mirrors society’s need to get back-to-basics.
Think cow prints, textured hay and burlap feedbags, and the creative the use of repurposed farm tools.
You’ll see tea-stained colors for a rustic tie-dye effect. Imagine the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables at your local farm stand. Yes, those peas/corn/carrots from the 70’s are coming back!
Whites will become milkier, and you’ll see more butter yellow and creams. And green will still be hot.
Earthy soil will replace the cooler gray tones as the strong neutral.
Oak cabinets will come back in vogue.
You’ll even see more stencils, needlepoint and yes…even macramé plant hangers.
Order
It’s easy to see how this trend reflects on today’s need to find order in the chaos of the day.
Look for minimalistic, geometric, stacking, sort of a modern Puritanism influence.
The use of outlining gives structure, bright stripes and polka dots are easily defined.
Primary colors are coming back, but look for the use of monochrome color schemes to continue.
Black and white with pops of color (primary especially) will be in.
Escape
If getting back to the farm, or find order in chaos don’t work for you, how about escaping from reality?
A translucent, soft retro feeling that inspires elegant fantasies and fairy tales.
Angelic clouds form a veil of wonder. Lots of frosted, pearl and satin finishes. Pink becomes the new red in this trend.
Tribe
As we simplify our lives and get back to what’s core to our values, it only makes sense that there will be a renewed importance place on communities, or tribes.
Imagine rich orange and berry hues paired with spicy browns and bronze metallic.
Tribal accents such as community-inspired sketch’s, beads and new textures will be key elements in this trend.

2011-02-03T10:06:00.001-08:00

BENEFITS OF BUYER AGENCY AND WORKING WITH A BUYER AGENT
When we enter into a buyer agency agreement together, we are required to serve you as our client. As our client, you receive a number of benefits, including:
1. We act as your advisor, by providing you with information and advice on the real estate matters that affect your transaction.
2. We protect and advance your best interests. When you are our sole client, we work for you. We don't provide advice to any other parties in your transaction. Our number one job is to serve your interests and your goals.
3. We negotiate for you and carry out your negotiation according to your directions. We help you formulate your strategy by providing you with the information, research and advice that is relevant to your purchase.

2011-02-03T10:04:00.001-08:00

WHAT IS A BUYER AGENCY AGREEMENT?
Buyer agency is a service agreement that you enter into with the brokerage of the Realtor who is assisting you with the purchase of your home. The agreement is voluntary. Among other things, it clarifies the relationship between you and your Realtor's brokerage and outlines the duties that are owed to you, the client.

2011-02-03T05:48:00.001-08:00

Tip #5 Getting things ready to sell your home. Here are some of the things I recommend locking away or packing up include:
* Jewelry
* Cash (I have walked into a house and seen a lot of cash laying on a table, out in the open)
* Prescription Drugs (These have become a high theft item)
* Guns ( A loaded handgun may be your protection in the nightstand, but not for the kid of a customer walking through a showing)
* Collectibles ( You don't want to see it show up on Antiques Roadshow)

2011-02-01T07:26:00.001-08:00

Now let‘s take a look at the home buying process for 2010

41% of all homes sold were on the market for less than one month

17% of all buyers purchased a home for less than 90 percent asking price

11% of all buyers purchased a home for more than 100% asking price

81% of all buyers were satisfied with the homebuying process

40% of all purchasers found the mortgage process more difficult than expected

92% of all purchasers were not rejected by a single lender

95% of all purchasers got a fixed-rate mortgage.

85% of all purchases are re-sales (78% in 2006).

12 miles was the average distance between current residence and new home

2011-01-26T13:16:00.001-08:00

Dress-up a home to sell.
A great way to add to the style of your home is by adding budget-friendly crown moulding. It is essential to choose the proper style of crown moulding for this do-it-yourself project. Sometimes people hesitate to try crown moulding, because the corners need to be cut at an angle, but with the right advice, it can be an easy project that will help sell your home

Deciding on what designs will compliment your house, regardless of whether they are plain or fancy is a good idea.

2011-01-26T13:02:00.001-08:00

Thinking of finishing your basement? You should consider the value it will give to your property. This will be great especially if you are thinking of selling your home in the future. Features like family rooms are attractive to buyers.
Come up with a budget. This is very important because this will play a major role in your design plan. There are projects that are cheaper than the others. However, you have to be more realistic if you want to achieve a desirable look for your basement. Bear in mind that you will not only purchase materials, you might need to buy new furniture as well. You should also include labor and unexpected expenses that you might incur during the transformation.
Plan your project. The planning stage is very important. Draw a design plan of how you want the basement to look after you are done with the project. Be as detailed-oriented as you can. What are the colors of the walls? What are the types of drapes do you want? You should also take note of the measurements of the space so that you will be able to purchase the right size of furniture.
See to it that you have a schedule too. When are you going to purchase the materials? When are you planning to start the project? Most importantly, when is it due?
Make the essential preparations. Aside from the budget and the shopping, you should also find out if you need to acquire permit for the transformation of your basement. You can call your local government to ask about this. Normally, you will be asked to secure a permit if there are major changes in the in the floor plan of the property as well as with its major systems like electrical and water lines.
After you have prepared everything, it is time to review your overall plan and make it happen. Empty the room and follow your schedule. if you have prepared everything, you should be able to carry out your plan without a problem.

2011-01-26T12:56:00.001-08:00

Sold your home and ready to move. If you decide to hire a moving company to do the moving for you, you will be rewarded with ease and comfort. You will feel relaxed in the whole process; there will be less stress and anxiety. People in the know of these things will help you do the tedious things of packing and loading and unloading. These are experts in moving, so you will not have to worry about you stuffs; they will be handled properly.

And what is more is that these people will help you in the arrangement of your stuffs once they are unloaded. This can make the setting up easier for you. The heavy stuffs can be positioned in their places according to your wish with the help of these expert movers. You will be spared of the sweats and the huffs and puffs of the activity. All you need to do is point to places where you want your stuffs to be positioned; and before you know it, you are done with your moving. Call me for a list of area movers. Scott Larson 608-214-9844

2011-01-25T12:27:00.001-08:00

3 Reasons to Sell a Home Soon
What do you tell a client who asks whether to sell a house now or wait? Steve McLinden, real estate adviser with Bankrate.com, offers these three good reasons not to wait, even though the holidays are approaching:

1. The market is improving. Most markets have either turned or are close to turning.

2. All real estate is local. Homes in great locations are always in demand.

3. Spring is coming soon. Many potential buyers are starting their online searches right after the holidays, making mid- to late February a great time to start marketing.

Source: Bankrate.com, Steve McLinden

2011-01-25T12:23:00.001-08:00

Year End 2010 home sales

2011-01-17T08:29:00.001-08:00

2011-01-14T12:22:00.001-08:00

How low should I make my offer? Have your realtor provide you with comps for the area so you have an accurate picture of value, then offer what you want to offer. You never know the situation of the seller or what type of motivation they are under. You hold the checkbook, so you make the call. Just make it an educated call by utilizing the expertise of your realtor.

Improve Your Credit Score

2011-01-13T07:13:00.000-08:00

Improve Your Credit Score

Suggestions on what you can do right now

A credit score reflects credit payment patterns over time, with more emphasis on recent information. Ways to improve a credit score generally include the following:

· Pay your bills on time. Delinquent payments and collections can have a major negative impact.

· Keep balances low on credit cards and other "revolving credit." High outstanding debt can affect a credit score.

· Apply for and open new credit accounts only as needed. Don’t open accounts just to have a better credit mix. It probably won’t improve your credit score.

· Pay off debt rather than moving it around. Also, don’t close unused cards as a short-term strategy to improve your credit score. Owing the same amount but having fewer open accounts may lower your credit score.

Know which items can improve credit scores the most

· Paying your bills on time is the single most important contributor to a good credit score. Even if the debt you owe is a small amount, it is crucial that you make payments on time.

· Minimize outstanding debt, avoid overextending yourself and refrain from applying for credit needlessly. Applications for credit show up as inquiries on your credit report, indicating to lenders that you may be taking on new debt. It may be to your advantage to use the credit you already have to prove your ongoing ability to manage credit responsibly.

· Pay your bills and wait. If you do have negative information on your credit report, such as late payments, a public record item (e.g., bankruptcy) or too many inquiries, you may want to pay your bills and wait. Time is your ally in improving your credit scores. There is no quick fix for bad credit scores.

One common question that many consumers have regarding their credit score involves understanding how very specific actions will affect it. However, it is impossible to provide a completely accurate assessment of how one specific action will affect a person’s credit score. For example, someone might ask if closing two of his or her revolving accounts would improve his or her credit score. While this question may appear to be easy to answer, there are many factors to consider. Simply closing two accounts not only lowers the number of open revolving accounts (which generally will improve credit scores), but it also decreases the total amount of available credit. That results in a higher utilization rate, also called the balance-to-limit ratio (which generally lowers scores).

How Long Does It Take to Rebuild a Credit Score?

Actually, you don’t rebuild the credit score. You rebuild your credit history, which then is reflected by your credit score. The length of time to rebuild your credit history after a negative change depends on the reasons behind the change. Most negative changes in credit scores are due to the addition of a negative element to your credit report, such as a delinquency or collection account. These new elements will continue to affect your credit scores until they reach a certain age. Delinquencies remain on your credit report for seven years. Most public record items remain on your credit report for seven years, although some bankruptcies may remain for 10 years and unpaid tax liens remain for 15 years. Inquiries remain on your report for two years.

Take good pictures

2011-01-11T09:56:00.000-08:00

Why isn’t my home selling? We know, it's the economy, right? Partially, but not completely. Many homes sell within a few months, some in as little as a week. So what is the problem with the houses that don't sell? Ask any home stager, or look through the MLS ( Multiple Listing Services) pictures, and you will find the answer.
Assuming that the home is priced correctly and is in a good location, the reason it remains on the market could lie in the photos posted on the Internet. Since over 80% of potential home buyers begin their searches on line pictures of homes for sale are critical. If the photographs present the home poorly many buyers won't even consider visiting the house in person. The list below highlights just some of the problems displayed in pictures that are costing home sellers thousands of dollars. These examples are from actual listings.
• Too much furniture makes the rooms appear smaller and hides the home's features.
• Outdated or very large furniture. Clutter on kitchen and bathroom counters. (Please put the toothpaste in a drawer).
• Toilet seat left up. Dishes in sink
• A cluttered or messy office, can't even see the desk
• A bed with such huge lumps under the spread that it looked like a body was under it.
• Floral, cowboy, rooster, ivy or any wallpaper design that was from another decade.
• A big screen tv blocking a window.
• A tv left on when photographing the room. It just looks tacky.
Before listing your home look at the home thoroughly to avoid these mistakes

Home Selling Tip

2011-01-10T08:07:00.000-08:00

Home Selling Tip.
Put new comforters on all of the beds.
Comforters are a lot like family heirlooms in that they tend to stick around for a really long time. Pick out some stylish, up to date comforters that fit the ambiance of each room.

2011-01-05T09:13:00.001-08:00

I got this from an email from Dave Ramsey
"What an exciting time to be a homebuyer! There's a huge selection, prices are down, and mortgage interest rates have never been lower. Oddly enough, though, house hunters haven't been buying—mostly because they're afraid the market hasn't hit bottom. But most analysts agree that home values will only drop a few more percentage points in most areas—if that. So there's no need to wait for the "official" bottom. If you find a home you're in love with, however, don't get lured into a bidding war. There will be plenty more homes coming on the market at a good price.

6 Reasons Sellers should have their home Pre- Inspected

2011-01-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

6 REASONS TO HAVE A PRE LISTING HOME INSPECTION!
So you are thinking of putting your home on the market. You have cleaned, decorated, painted the home and manicured the yard. But what about what you can’t see? Many sellers will opt to have a pre-sale home inspection done, prior to putting their property on the market. The benefits are many!
1. You will have a copy of the inspection to make available to buyers when viewing your home. They will feel more confident moving ahead, after reading a report and knowing the condition inside and out.
2. If repairs are needed, you can mark them on the report or include copies of invoices for those repairs. Be sure to get permits and hire qualified contractors, or the buyer will question the repairs.
3. You will save some money by knowing if there is any issue that needs attention. You can get it taken care of BEFORE going on the market. Buyers hire home inspectors after they have agreed on a price. If something comes up, you can’t factor it in to the price, like you would if you inspected prior to listing.
4. You have trust in the inspector you hire, not an inspector the buyer chooses. You have no control over who the buyer hires, and may differ with their opinion or their qualifications.
5. You have control over the contractor and price, should any repair be needed. For example, if it is determined that a new roof is needed now, you get it done on your terms! You can get a 3 tab shingle roof, and the buyer will be happy with a new roof. If the buyer is involved in the decision, they may want the more expensive option of a dimensional roof, or a certain color.
6. In the case of something that looks scary, like an older furnace, having an inspection on file that shows it has been checked and in good working order, may keep a buyer from passing on the home.
Can you see that having an inspection done prior to listing is a good idea for several reasons? The cost of home inspections run anywhere from $250-$500, depending on the size of the property.

2011-01-03T06:46:00.001-08:00

Why write the offer today? Sometimes if you get an offer in quickly, you will be able to get it accepted quickly at a slightly lower price than if you waited and the situation became a bidding war. I've seen this often with REOs (foreclosures). I've won out on many desirable REOs because my client's offer is the first offer, gets put into the computer. "The eary bird gets the worm"

2010-12-24T07:44:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from Scott Larson
http://ping.fm/bpFwn

2010-12-22T08:41:00.001-08:00

Rising interest rates are a side effect of an improving economy, they are up over 100 basis pts in 30 days to 5%. Buyers now is the time to buy!

Click here to view out our listings

2010-12-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

2010-12-08T07:51:00.001-08:00

Why buy a home? Although real estate moves in cycles, sometimes up, sometimes down, over the years, real estate has consistently appreciated. Many people view their home investment as a hedge against inflation.

2010-12-07T06:43:00.001-08:00

Mortgage Interest Deductions ( One reason home ownership is good option)
Home ownership is a superb tax shelter and our tax rates favor homeowners. As long as your mortgage balance is smaller than the price of your home, mortgage interest is fully deductible on your tax return. Interest is the largest component of your mortgage payment

2010-12-07T06:40:00.001-08:00

What is an Earnest Money?
It's a good faith deposit but not to be confused with a down payment. When buyers execute a purchase contract, the contract specifies how much money the buyer is initially putting up to secure the contract, to show "good faith," and how much money all together will be deposited as a down payment. The balance is generally financed as a mortgage or a combination of mortgages. An earnest money deposit says to the seller: "Yes, I am serious enough about buying your house that I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is."

2010-12-06T10:59:00.001-08:00

Monroe Arts Center Holiday Silent Auction
Bid on excellent art pieces. Auction bidding through Dec. 10 at the Holiday Concert and Community Sing-Along.
Bid on original and limited edition art to home-baked goods and specialty dinners, home decor items and sports-related memorabilia.
Location:1315 11th St

2010-12-01T09:30:00.001-08:00

When it comes time to buy a home, you may need to come up with some creative ways to boost affordability. Let's take a moment to explore a one of these options. The first order of business could be to sit down with your family to see what assistance they'd be happy to offer. You may find that a mother or grandfather would be more than happy to co-sign on a loan, or even offer you a loan at low, or zero, percent interest. You could also discuss a shared-appreciation or shared-equity arrangement. This is when a family member buys a portion of the prospective home, and then is able to share in its appreciative value when it is sold. When credit gets tough the tough get creative.

2010-11-30T09:38:00.001-08:00

Holiday Selling
from Realty Times Chongchua, Phoebe
Property sellers can take comfort in the fact that buyers touring their homes during the holiday season probably are serious about making a purchase. Sprucing up a residence by decorating for the holidays is recommended, but it is important not to go overboard. Sellers should put up a single Christmas tree, but avoid putting gifts under it. They could put up holiday lights and a wreath outside, meanwhile, but they should avoid inflatable characters on the lawn. Additionally, they should hang stockings -- though not ones with names on them -- and use cinnamon pine cones or mild potpourris to freshen up the room. Experts say sellers should keep in mind that buyers will want to imagine their own holiday celebrations in the home.

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-3 Reasons to Sell a Home Soon

2010-11-20T08:17:00.000-08:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-3 Reasons to Sell a Home Soon

2010-11-15T08:41:00.001-08:00

Fall Home Tip: Clear debris out of you window wells, gutters, and downspouts. This will allow the water to properly drain, minimizing standing water and stalling the freeze and thaw expansion process that often occurs during colder months.

2010-11-14T11:26:00.001-08:00

Winter Tip : Clean your windows. Sparkling clean windows let in lots of sunlight that will help chase away winter's doldrums and warm the home.

2010-11-11T13:38:00.001-08:00

Winter curb appeal for home sellers: Transform the unused bird feeder into a seasonal display by adding twigs with red berries and greenery. Check out the local craft stores for other colorful ideas. Add some WOW to get noticed

2010-11-10T10:27:00.001-08:00

New homeowner?Here is the basics. A toolbox. There is nothing more tiring than having to search for the tool you need. Keep everything together and you'll never waste time hunting for the right tool. Hammer. It seems basic enough, and it is. If for nothing else, you'll need it to hang all your artwork and pictures. Level. From hanging pictures to framing a garage, a level is a must. Screw Driver. You'll need more than one! Be sure you have multiple sizes of both phillips-head and flat-blades. Plyers. Have you ever tried to disconnect a fitting on a pipe? Hand Saw. Many handymen prefer power tools, but for those remote spots with no electrical access, you can always count on a hand saw. Tape Measure. How long does that new counter-top need to be? Do we have room for the couch to fit through the front door? Exactly. Use a tape measure. Wire cutters. To cut wires.
Cordless Drill and Bits. It's perfect for the ladies that need a little extra oomph to finish a project.
Utility Knife. This is great for cutting exact edges.
This is just a starter kit. There is a tool for practically every need, so over time, your tool box will grow!

2010-11-05T06:32:00.001-07:00

Good morning everybody, it's going to be a great Friday. Just a reminder to set your clocks back this weekend for "Daylight savings time". Enjoy your extra hour of sleep.

2010-11-03T07:13:00.001-07:00

Well the votes have been counted and new leadership has been elected now lets hope they remember the reasons they were chosen.

2010-11-02T10:06:00.001-07:00

Today is election day so get out and vote!

2010-10-28T08:55:00.001-07:00

Home Selling Tip. Stage each room for one purpose. You might use your dining room as a home office or playroom, but buyers will respond better to the space if you stage it with a dining table and chairs and chandelier. Even nooks and crannies are valuable square footage, so play them up. An odd alcove at the top of the stairs becomes a cozy reading corner with the addition of an armchair, ottoman, side table and lamp.

2010-10-27T08:18:00.001-07:00

Home selling mistake: Putting the home on the market before it's ready. Most times this happens because the seller has pushed himself up against a moving deadline without getting the pre-sale work done. So it comes on the market with the horrible carpet or they are painting it while it goes on the market. Presentation is everything -- so get the work done before marketing the property.
I hope this tip was helpful, sell that home!!

2010-10-26T10:28:00.001-07:00

Just finsihed a Prudential Real estate training on the latest internet tools to help our clients buy and sell homes. Call me today to see how I can assist your in finding the home of your dreams. 608-214-9844

5 Ways Sellers Can Minimize "Pet Factor"

2010-10-21T11:32:00.001-07:00

5 Ways Sellers Can Minimize "Pet Factor"

Pets can make it difficult to sell a home, but there are several steps owners can take to minimize an animal's presence.

Boarding may not be an option, but owners should consider taking pets with them during showings, putting them in day care, or having a friend/relative/neighbor care for them.

Most importantly, sellers should ensure their dwellings are extremely clean by repairing scratched floors or chewed moldings, repainting rooms, cleaning carpets and removing other traces of their pets.

Finally, sellers should relocate feeding bowls, litter boxes and pet toys as well as ensure the yard is clear of animal waste.

Lowest Mortgage Rates Since 1950's

2010-10-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

Lowest Mortgage Rates Since 1950's

The last time borrowers could get rates this low, every television was black and white. American's liked Ike. Thirty-year fixed mortgages dropped to 4.27% this wee. Freddie Mac also reported the 5 yr adjustable rate mortgage fell to 3.47%, and the 1 yr adjustable rate dropped to 3.4%. Buyers should take advantage of the current mortgage rate environment.

Work hard, play smarter.

2010-09-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

Work hard, play smarter.
"In times of great stress or adversity, it's always best to keep busy, to plow your anger and your energy into something positive."
--Lee Iacocca
When I came across this quote from Lee Iacocca, it immediately became apparent to me how people might mistake Iacocca's advice as hard-nosed CEO's advice to channel negative energy into higher levels of productivity.
One of the greatly misunderstood American business values is determination. The idea of grit, self-reliance, and "buckling down" to meet a challenge is too often misinterpreted as a need to simply "work harder" in times of adversity.
You might be able to turn the sting of anger or weight of stress into motivation to make a change, but "doing more" isn't always going to be the most advantageous path in times of adversity. Iacocca doesn't say, "work harder," he actually only argues for focusing on "something positive."
That "something positive" might well be working shorter hours with better focus. Emerging research on personal and company productivity suggests that the time-honored workaholic's tradition of "longer hours doing more with less" doesn't result in higher levels of achievement.
In fact, a wide range of compelling evidence suggests that waves of concentration and effort are best paired with periods of positive recovery. Recovery may take the form of exercise, healthy food, naps, and other restorative, "non-work" activities which help us reset our focus, replenish our energy, and allow us to approach our challenges with a fresh perspective. (For an excellent read on this topic, check out Tony Schwartz' book, The Way We're Working Isn't Working.)
As everyone in real estate faces the challenges of a recession, it may be very tempting to preach the gospel of "just work harder," but giving in to what sounds good could ultimately be counterproductive to your success. Have you neglected to give yourself time to recharge, refuel, and reenergize yourself? Are you balancing hard work with healthy play? What's the "something positive" that will get you through?

Article written by Scott Levitt Oakley Signs & Graphics, Inc.

Something for us all to think about no matter what occupation we find ourselves doing.

Cookies and Flowers

2010-09-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

Selling Tip: Finishing Touches
Bake cookies, light a fire, put out fresh flowers...these are common techniques to help create a feeling of welcome before open houses or scheduled showings. Talk with me about what aspects of your home are the most appealing and how you can take the extra steps to highlight them for potential buyers. Visit my website for more information. www.greencountyhomeguide.com

Buzz words with mortgage financing

2010-09-22T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here are somethings to consider when thinking of buying a home.
Learn & Follow the 3Cs.
Location may be the buzz word in real estate, but capacity, character and collateral are the buzz words with mortgage financing.

Capacity - your financial ability to repay your loan;
Character - an examination of your credit history and history in paying previous debts; and
Collateral - the value of the home must appraise for at least the amount of the loan.
I highly recommend that you talk to your local bank to see where you are with the 3 C's before you go home shopping

Heres a couple of ideas to help sell your home

2010-09-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

Monroe and Green County Wisconsin Real Estate by Scott Larson Here are ‎2 Things to help sell you home: Furniture arrangement – Instead of arranging your furniture against the walls, add visual square footage by first removing one or two pieces of furniture and pulling the rest away from the walls.
Fresh bedding – Make your bed an inviting focal point with an updated bedding set layered with neutral pillow shams, or extra comforter folded at the foot of the bed. Choose simple patterns.

"Difference Between A Seller Agent And A Buyer Agent" HAR's Consumer Kno...

2010-09-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

1303 10th Street Monroe WI 53566 - Obeo Virtual Tour 596606

2010-08-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

801 2nd Street Monroe WI 53566 - Obeo Virtual Tour 601326

2010-08-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Should I buy a house today?

2010-07-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

Should I buy a house today?
A Home Is a Better Place to Raise a Family

Don’t take my word on this. When Fannie Mae asked current renters for the major reason to buy a house in their National Housing Survey 2010, these were the answers renters gave (they could pick multiple answers):

* 78% said it was a good place to raise children
* 75% said because they would feel safe
* 70% said because you have control of your own space

With interest rates under 4.5% you can own some homes for less than renting. Call me today and see how you can become a home owner.

Do you have cash reserves?

2010-07-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

Cash Reserves

Buyers, when you apply for a mortgage loan, the lender is going to request your bank account information. They will check again just a few days before your closing date. They want to know how much money you have in the bank, and whether or not you can afford your closing costs. They also want to make sure you have enough to cover your first couple of mortgage payments. This is referred to as “cash reserves.” The amount needed will vary based on lender and loan program. Just know that the lender is going to scrutinize your liquid assets.

QUESTION: Should you focus more on your rate or getting a price reduction?

2010-07-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

QUESTION: Should you focus more on your rate or getting a price reduction?

ANSWER: Price swings are sign of the times. For potential buyers who are waiting to see if home prices come down a little more, that means the wait could well cost you more money in the long run.

Let's look at an example: A homebuyer wants to buy a home that costs $300,000. But the buyer wants a better deal on the home, so he/she delays a transaction until the home is reduced by $10,000. If, in the meantime however, rates were to rise .75% to 6.00% and the buyer financed 90% of the purchase price, the amount of total payments over a 30-year term would be over $35,000 more than paying the $300,000 purchase price and locking in the 5.25% interest rate. In other words, the buyer would save $10,000 only to end up paying $35,000 more.

Now these prices and rates are just for the sake of example. But the point is that home prices are already very affordable...and rates are still at historic lows for now. So in the end, waiting for a home price to reduce may end up costing you much more than you expect if rates rise.

Save for Closing costs

2010-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Closing Costs

Closing costs are the various fees, taxes and other costs associated with buying a home. They include such things as attorney fees, property survey fees, title insurance, recording fees, home appraisal and more.

Depending on where you live, your closing costs could add up to $3,000 or more.

In some cases, the seller may contribute money toward the buyer’s closing costs. This is often the case in a buyer’s market, when sellers are more motivated. But even in such cases, you’ll have to pay something toward your closing costs. This is another reason why it’s so important save money.

Save up for your home-buying

2010-07-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Saving, Why is this so important? Here is good reason to save up for your home-buying process:

1. Down Payment

When you buy a home, you’ll have to make a down payment of some kind. The days of “no money down” ended when our economy collapsed. Almost 100% of lenders today will require you to put some money down. The amount needed will vary, based on the type of loan you are using. With an FHA home loan, you can put as little as 3.5% down. With a conventional mortgage (one that’s not backed by the government), you’ll need to put even more money down. Many buyers aim for a 20% down payment, to avoid paying private mortgage insurance.

Save even More with lower intrest rates

2010-07-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

Buyers who jumped to get the tax credit most likely received an interest rate of 5%-5.25%. That $8,000 is mild in comparison to the payment savings a 4.5% 30yr rate will generate over the life of a mortgage. Call me today to see some great homes. 608-214-9844

Why can't I buy a home?

2010-07-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

First-time home buyers are often surprised by the total costs associated with buying a home. Some buyers don’t even realize that a lack of cash reserves can hurt their chances of getting a loan. But it happens all the time. In fact, a lack of up-front cash is one of the most common reasons for mortgage rejection. That’s why it’s important for future home buyers to start saving money early on.

Common Misconceptions About FHA Home Loans

2010-06-29T06:42:00.000-07:00

Common Misconceptions About FHA Home Loans

FHA home loans are a popular financing strategy for home buyers. They’re especially popular with first-time buyers who don’t have much of a down payment saved up. But FHA loans are also commonly misunderstood. Here are some of the biggest misconceptions about these loans.

But first, a quick definition. An FHA loan is simply a mortgage loan that’s insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA is part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, better known as HUD. This government agency insures mortgage lenders against losses resulting from borrower default. This makes the lenders more inclined to use the program, and to give loans to people who might not otherwise qualify for a mortgage.

Myth #1: Anyone can qualify for an FHA loan.

Truth: Not everyone will qualify. Generally speaking, it’s easier to qualify for an FHA home loan than a conventional mortgage loan. But that doesn’t mean they’re available to everyone. In fact, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has recently tightened up their lending standards for FHA loans. One of the changes affects people with low credit scores. If your credit score is below 580, you’ll have to make a larger down payment. If your score is way below 580, you probably won’t get approved for the loan. With good credit, you’ll still have to make a down payment of at least 3.5% to get approved. You’ll also need to document your income and expenses, to show that you can afford the monthly payments.

Myth #2: You can get an FHA loan with no money down.

Truth: In the current economy, you can’t get any kind of loan without making a down payment of some kind. The days of “easy credit” and “no money down” disappeared when the housing bubble burst. The minimum down payment for an FHA loan is currently 3.5%. And, as mentioned earlier, you’ll need a credit score of 580 or higher to qualify for the 3.5% down payment. If your score falls below that cutoff point, you’ll have to put 10% down.

Myth #3: FHA loans are safer, because the government will bail you out if you fall behind.

Truth: Wishful thinking. If you fall behind on an FHA home loan, you can be foreclosed upon — the same as any other type of loan. Remember, the FHA is not the one giving you the money. You must apply for one of these mortgages through an FHA-approved lender. The government just insures the lender against losses resulting from borrower default. So the lender can still foreclose on you, if you fail to make your payments. As an FHA borrower, you might have more workout solutions and modification options available, but that’s about it. The FHA will not “bail you out.” So make sure you buy an affordable house!

Should you be buying an investment property?

2010-06-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

In reports recently housing experts are stating we could see a housing shortage in the next 1-2 years. New home construction has hit some current lows and with a population that never ceases to grow, this will pose a problem in the future. This will bode well for sellers down the road along with individuals holding rental property. There are many valued single family homes on the market today. Should you buy an investment home? Call me and let’s talk. 608-214-9844

Monroe Wisconsin Home sales

2010-06-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

May Home Sales in Monroe

Monroe: 18 sold;average price, $107,976 Average of 79 days on market. Many of the homes sold have been influenced by the 1st Time Home Buyers Credit. We should see June home sales higher also. With interest rate at historic lows now is a great time to buy a home.

What can you do about pet urine spots?

2010-06-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

Strong pet odor can ruin a showing, so what can you do to avoid this problem?

First the bad news: Not all urine stains are removable. The types of damage caused vary according to the urine content. This is determined by the pet's diet, age, sex, and any medications being taken. If it is removable, the following steps may get it out.

1. Blot up the urine as soon as you discover it. Use plain white paper towels to avoid dye transfer.

2. Mix 1/4 teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent (non-bleach and non-lanolin) in a cup of warm water. Apply this to the spot.

3. Blot up the moisture, rinse with warm water, and apply more of the detergent mixture. Rinse, and continue the process until you don't see any urine transfer to the paper towels.

4. Mix two tablespoons of ammonia in a cup of water. Apply this to the spot, blot it up, rinse with warm water, and repeat. Blot the area dry.

5. Mix one cup of white vinegar with two cups of water. Apply this to the spot, blot it up, rinse, and repeat. Rinse well when you are done, and blot the area to remove as much moisture as possible.

6. Put a stack of plain white paper towels on the spot and weigh them down with something flat and heavy (something that won't lose its color if it gets wet). Change the paper towels occasionally, until the spot is dry.

The faster you get to the spot, the more likely it is that it can be removed. When urine spots develop over time, and are not noticed right away, the dyes and carpet fibers may be permanently damaged. In beige carpet, the stains will appear red, yellow or orange. Color can sometimes be restored by treating with a solution of two tablespoons of clear, non-sudsy ammonia in a cup of water.

To get urine odor out, it's often necessary to remove virtually all the urine - especially in the case of cat urine. Many products simply mask the odor, and fail even at that during times of high humidity. Some pet stores and veterinary offices now have enzyme treatments that work better, and professional carpet cleaners can apply these for you if you aren't sure how to do it.

If odor persists, you may have to remove that section of carpet. You can replace it with scraps if you have saved them, or cut a piece from an area that isn't visible. Unfortunately, sometimes the padding and even a section of flooring has to be removed to totally eliminate odor from old urine stains.

Another satisfied customer

2010-06-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

Becky Robertson May 19 at 12:39pm

The sale of our home with Scott Larson was an amazing experience. Before we had even met he had pages of comparative market research done on our home which allowed us to compare our home with others for sale in the area. That was helpful to us as we decided on an asking price for the home. During the first meeting he was also extremely helpful in explaining to us all the details of selling a home. We had sold a home before and yet, after our first meeting with Scott, we realized that we didn't understand a lot of what happened with the sale of our first home.

Scott also explained to us the numerous routes he would take to market our home; routes which included various online websites, as well as newspaper ads and word-of-mouth networking. The latter form of marketing was what sold our home is record timing! 24 hours after we listed the home with Scott we had our first showing and 4 hours later we were signing the paperwork on the accepted offer!

Are you at RISK? 12 Things a Burglar Won't Tell You,

2010-06-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

12 Things a Burglar Won't Tell You

Number 8 just happened to one of my clients, have you warned yours?

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste … and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

5. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don’t let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it’s set. That makes it too easy.

6. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom—and your jewelry. It’s not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

7. It’s raining, you’re fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door—understandable. But understand this: I don’t take a day off because of bad weather.

8. I always knock first. If you answer, I’ll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don’t take me up on it.)

9. Do you really think I won’t look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

10. Here’s a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids’ rooms.

11. You’re right: I won’t have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it’s not bolted down, I’ll take it with me.

12. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system

From Scott Larson of Towne Square Realty in Monroe, Wisconsin

"Your Realtor of the Region"

E- Mail scott@greencountyhomeguide.com

On the web at www.greencountyhomeguide.com

I think you will be surprised how affordable the Dairyland is,

so come to my land of cows and plows and visit for a day, but stay for a lifetime

608-2124-9844 Direct

Should you Rent or Buy?

2010-05-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Should you Rent or Buy?
Relocation.
Are you likely to be transferred to another city within the next two years? If you had to sell due to a job transfer, your property would need to appreciate at least 10% to cover the cost of selling; otherwise, you would lose money on the sale. When you buy a home, you should plan to stay put for a while.

Ready, Set, Buy your first home. Step 1.

2010-05-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

The first step: figuring out whether you are ready to own a home. This does not only mean that you are financially capable of owning a home. It also includes emotional readiness, as buying a first home is a huge step for most people, as well as a huge commitment and responsibility.

One of the easiest and most valuable things you can do to prepare is obtaining a copy of your credit report and making sure that lenders will like what they see. The Web site, ConsumerInfo.com, offers this service for free, as do many other sites. If your credit report is less than stellar, it is probably a better idea to continue renting while you pay off debts and investigate questionable problems.

Home buyer Tip #3 How much home can I afford?

2010-05-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

Aim for a home you can really afford.

The rule of thumb is that you can buy housing that runs about two-and-one-half times your annual salary. But you'll do better to use one of many calculators available online to get a better handle on how your income, debts, and expenses affect what you can afford. I have links on my web site at www.greencountyhomeguide.com

Don't buy if you can't stay put. First-time Homeowners advice.

2010-05-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

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Don't buy if you can't stay put.

If you can't commit to remaining in one place for at least a few years, then owning is probably not for you, at least not yet. With the transaction costs of buying and selling a home, you may end up losing money if you sell any sooner - even in a rising market. When prices are falling, it's an even worse proposition. Make sure you discuss your plans with your Realtor so he or she can give you sound advice on this your biggest life-time purchase.

What if you get a very low offer on your home?

2010-05-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

Negotiate! Keep the conversation alive with the buyer for as long as you can. Do not settle right away. Always maintain open communication about your limitations with your agent; he or she is there to help you get the best price possible for your home. Remember, if the offer is too low, always counter; don't walk away. Sometimes buyers simply want to test the waters.

Did You know?

2010-05-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

Did you know that I can show you any home, listed with any company, in any community in Wisconsin, any time? Put me to work for you or if you have a friend, I will do my very best to help them find their dream home

Changes in lending

2010-05-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

The magic number for your credit score is 740. The lower the score, the higher the rate.
A score under 620 in not acceptable for conforming loans.
You can check your score at www.annualcreditreport.com

Call me if I can be of service

Thank you,

Scott Larson
608-214-9844

Should You Buy a Home in Today's Market?

2010-05-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

First, if you are thinking about delaying a purchase because you want to "time the market" to get the very best deal, that is almost impossible to do with precision. Even if you are in an area with declining market prices, the most knowledgeable experts cannot reliably anticipate the "bottom" of a real estate market.
Second, if you aren't an owner, you're a renter. Renting is just throwing money away. You don't get to reduce your income taxes by itemizing deductions like property taxes and mortgage interest. However, for many, renting can provide a better home in a better area than they could afford to buy and is cheaper than owning. And, the money saved during the renting period could be saved. The period of time spent renting and saving could also be used to repair and improve credit, so that when the time does come to buy a house, it will be possible to get a mortgage with more favorable terms, conditions and interest rates. As a renter, you are limited on what changes you can make to your living quarters. As an owner, you can paint your living room chartreuse if you want or put in an avocado green carpet. You can change light fixtures, garden and landscape. You can do whatever you want that makes your home a comfortable place for you and your family. It's your home, not a temporary place to sleep and eat until you do buy a home.
Third, interest rates are very low right now. If you wait, interest rates could be higher. That means your monthly payment could be higher, too. No one can predict rates that far in the future, of course, but rates are very low right now.
Plus, the easiest way to accumulate wealth is through home ownership. Three out of four people have more equity in their home than assets in retirement plans, stocks, mutual funds, and savings. Though no one can guarantee your property will appreciate, over time it generally does.
How do you minimize the possibility of lower appreciation for your home? Determine your price range. Then choose a neighborhood where your target price is in the lower tier of prices in that neighborhood. That way, your home has less vulnerability on the down side and the higher-priced homes will help pull you up during hot markets.
Finally, talk to me Scott Larson a real estate agent with Re/Max Towne Square Realty and ask for advice. Ask me what the market is like in your area.
Ph. 608 214-9844 or E-mail scott@greencountyhomeguide.com
On the web at, www.greencountyhomeguide.com

As the song goes " Time keeps on ticking, ticking in to the future"

2010-04-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

As the song goes " Time keeps on ticking, ticking in to the future"

The first time home buyer tax credit allows a buyer to enter an agreement with a seller by April 30, 2010 and close on the house by June 30, 2010. First time home buyers are defined as anyone who has not owned a home for the past 3 years. First time home buyers will get up to $8,000 tax credit. Other home buyers, who have owned their current home for at least five years, are eligible for a $6,500 tax credit.

Income limitations $125,000 for single filers and $225,000 for joint filers. The purchase price of the home must be less than $800,000.

There it is, the clock is nearly striking midnight on this fantastic offer for first time home buyers. It is still possible but you must get an accepted offer on the home you want within 10 days.

From Scott Larson of Towne Square Realty in Monroe, Wisconsin

“Your Realtor of the Region”

E- Mail scott@greencountyhomeguide.com

On the web at www.greencountyhomeguide.com

I think you will be surprised how affordable the Dairyland is,

so come to my land of cows and plows and visit for a day, but stay for a lifetime

608-2124-9844 Direct