Home
April 30, 2009 at 11:31 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
You hear about them every day....Foreclosures. They are growing in numbers. They dominate neighborhoods. Their prices are dropping more and more. Every buyer asks about them. You would think they are a great buy and a good deal. But here are 11 things you need to know before you even look at one, much less make an offer on one!
- It might not be pretty! I have heard them called SUV's, (stinky, ugly and vacant). Not every one, but most of them need more work than the average buyer is willing to put in.
- You will be buying it AS IS. What you see is what you get, you are buying it AS IS. The bank won't fix ANYTHING, it's AS IS. There is no condition report, it is AS IS. Yes, you can have an inspection, but you get it AS IS. Did I mention, it is AS IS?
- You need an experienced REALTOR® to write the offer. They know what to put in, and what will never fly. Banks are starting to weasel out of some of the normal seller paid closing fees, and if your agent isn't aware of that and doesn't write them in the offer as a seller expense, YOU will be paying them!
- You better get title insurance! And be sure to ask for Gap Insurance coverage. You don't want anyone knocking on the door after you close and find out they have a lien on your new home! As a Buyer's Agent, I have my title company do a short search, just to double check what the seller is telling us is true regarding liens on title, and to be sure the bank actually has acquired title to the property.
- You better have a lot of PATIENCE. Banks work M-F, 9-5. You will not get any answers on the weekend. They don't care about your offer deadline. They will answer when that offer gets to the top of their pile. Or should I say piles! They have thousands of files, and you are just a number! Wait your turn.
- Be prepared to get a counter, usually verbal. They are the same most of the time: "We have multiple offers. We are asking all buyers to give us their highest and best offer."
- Read the fine print! Many times there are terms in the sellers addenda that impose terms that favor the bank and NOT the buyer, ie: $100 daily penalty if YOU don't close on your contract date. Or you must close no later than 30 days after acceptance of the offer.
- Be Patient...REALLY patient! And you will need patience all the way through until closing. The bank many times is the one who can't get to closing on time. You may have to get extensions. Yes, you will be waiting until you get to the top of the pile! And no, they don't pay you $100 per day they are late!
- Read the fine print! Again, this is where an experienced REALTOR® comes in handy. Is the seller able to prove to you in writing that the water bill is paid in full through the closing date? What about taxes, condo fees or other special fees? Better get that in writing! It would be highly advised to get an attorney to represent you at closing.
- Be sure to re-key EVERYTHING after closing. Many asset managers use a master key system. You want to be sure that you are THE only person who has keys to access your new home.
- Realize when looking at foreclosures that they are priced significantly lower than the market value, usually due to the amount of work they need. The assessment, though, is based on the assumption of good condition, so the taxes will be much higher than most homes in the same price range. Don't look at this like a negative, rather a positive. You are getting an eventually higher value home in a lower price range, and probably a much nicer neighborhood than you were looking in.
Use these tips to purchase a foreclosure property and keep your sanity! If you need an expert Buyers Agent, contact Pat Tasker at 262-437-5853 or by email at ptasker@shorewest.com.
Posted by:
Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 30, 2009 at 11:14 AM · Posted under Menomonee Falls, Pat Tasker
A quaint village at the northeast corner of Waukesha County, Menomonee Falls is a place you will find generations of families and newcomers alike! Spread over 33 square miles, you will find everything from residential development, shopping districts, restaurants, rural farmland, and industrial parks. Quality of life is enhanced by great schools, parks and many churches.
From the Cherry Cherry C
raft Fair every fall, a Civil War Encampment, The Big Pig Gig BBQ, Christmas & 4th of July Parades, there is something for everyone!
Menomonee Falls is rich in history. The first settler is believed to be Hollingsworth Smith, and other settlers followed, attracted by the water, the falls of up to 50 feet, and the power they produce. The first land tracks were purchased in the 1840’s, and buildin
gs built with stone from the area. The popular Lannon Stone is still quarried in this area today.
Menomonee Falls is the hometown of several well known names, such as Bob Uecker, voice of the Milwaukee Brewers, Andrew Hurley, drummer for the band “Fall Out Boy”, Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner, and PGA golfer Mark Wilson.
If you are looking for a great place to live, you will feel welcome in “The Falls”. Call Pat Tasker to see any homes available here! 262-437-5853 or ptasker@shorewest.com
Posted by:Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 22, 2009 at 04:22 PM
This is one horse race that you can count on winning the trifecta!!! First place is the $8,000.00 purse from the government. Second place is the historically low mortgage rates. Third place is the high inventory of homes with below market sale prices. Place your bets today with The Newman Team and you will have a Smooth Ride to victory!!
Posted by:
Terri Newman
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 22, 2009 at 03:52 PM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Yes, can you believe it? 49 years? Doesn't is seem like it wasn't really that
long ago that it started?
As Wisconsinites, we can be proud that Earth Day was born right here, the brainstorm of our
US Senator Gaylord Nelson to make citizens of the world appreciate and inspire awareness of the environment.
We have surely gone through phases since the first Earth Day, back in 1970. Then and now, conserving energy was a hot topic....in the middle of the 49 years, that concern for the environment and our natural resources waned. While incomes grew, and our convenience was more important than saving any resources!
We went from wrapping our water heaters with giant blankets on the outside, to unseen super thick insulation on their insides.
This Earth Day, we are on a new mission to make EVERYTHING green! From all of our building materials,including siding, paint, carpet and flooring. Even lawn food and weed killer, appliances, to clothing (yes I have socks made from bamboo!)even cleaning materials for the home.
Can you believe a quality we look for in paint is "low emission"...that used to be automotive speak.
So celebrate the environment today, and take stock of what you can do to extend the life of our world, and quality of life for your family!
For more information on turning your home "green" contact Pat Tasker at Shorewest Realtors.
Posted by:
Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 21, 2009 at 02:53 PM · Posted under Pat Tasker
History Right In Your Back Yard!
If you live in Menomonee Falls or Germantown, you have a chance to view history any day of the week. The Old Falls Village at the corner of Pilgrim Road & County Line Road offers a glimpse into the past of settlers in the area.
The 1858 Miller Davidson House (listed on the Historic Registry) is the cornerstone of the 17 acre living history park, which also features a log home, school, church, gazebo, train station, a dairy and barn.
Most building also contain historic pieces of equipment, furniture and memorabilia.
The park is open to the public, and building are open for group tours that have been pre arranged, or during special events: (www.oldfallsvillage.com/eventsofv.htm).
Your first chance this year to view the buildings will be May 30-June 1st for Old Falls Village Days. Not only will you be able to tour the building, see farming equipment, some in operation, but also take wagon rides around the park. Early pioneer skills will be demonstrated by artisans.
Rates are LOW, there is a lot to choose from, THE TIME TO BUY IS NOW!! Ask me about the NEW $8000 tax credit for buying a home.
Posted by:Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 20, 2009 at 04:16 PM · Posted under Germantown, Pat Tasker
If you are looking for some fun and food, Main Street in Germantown is a great place to start!
The “original” downtown, you will find some great places to eat including German specialities at the Bier Stube
, not to mention over 200 beers, tangy ribs from Jerry’s Old Town, a great fish fry at the Barley Pop, or a wide range of selections at Bub’s (photo)Yes, an Irish Pub in GERMANtown!
If you are looking for fun, stay awhile at Bub’s! On Saturday evenings, they have live music.
The sounds are big for a small coverchage and sometimes include names like: Oil Can Harry, Chasin Mason, and the very popular “the Toys”. Looking for fun on a regular basis? Join one 
of Bub’s leagues- Golden Tee Golf - Silver Strike Bags Skee-ball Pool Darts Dartball Beer Pong Trivia Cherry Master Foosball.
If you live in Germantown, you don’t have to go far for food, fun and beverages, if you don’t live in Germantown it is worth the drive. Looking to buy in Germantown?
Contact your Germantown Realtor Pat Tasker at Pat@PatTasker.com.
Rates are LOW, there is a lot to choose from, THE TIME TO BUY IS NOW!! Ask me about the NEW $8000 tax credit for buying a home.
Posted by:Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 20, 2009 at 03:46 PM · Posted under Germantown, Pat Tasker
Germantown was voted "Best Place to Live" by
Money Magazine in 2007. Now one of its subdivisions made the Milwaukee Magazine list of "Sweet Spots" to live in the metro area: "Tree Tops hasn’t got
many treetops, but it’s a top-of-the-line subdivision for Germantown. And, for time-pressed homeowners, it has a reputation for being well-run, right down to having its own parks and stormwater management. $350,000-$900,000."
As the site of the 2002 Metropolitan Builders Association "Parade of Homes," Tree Tops was at the end of phase one and moving on through 2 more phases. Planned by Siepmann Development,
Tree Tops has become one of the sought after areas in the northern Metro area. You know it's special as you drive in past the distinctive entry markers in the shadows of aged oaks. The subdivision includes 185 homes sites, covering 146 acres, 40 acres (27%) of which are open spaces. Condensed lot sizes, and reduced building set backs make up this conservancy subdivision. 5 miles of walking trails wind around the subdivision, past the 8 ponds and to the large private park, featuring a playground and sport court. Rigorous architectural requirements, include natural siding materials, no fences, above ground pools and uniform roofing materials.
The best part of living in Tree Tops is the social life of the subdivision. Yearly events bring neighbors together, including: Pizza Party, a
Round Robin, Egg Hunt, golf outing, and Fall Festival. Not to mention the impromptu evening gatherings at a firepit on a neighbor's patio!
Home sizes range from 2,000-6,000 square feet, prices range from $300,000-900,000. For more information on homes for sale in Tree Tops in Germantown, contact the neighborhood expert Pat Tasker. "It's not just my business, it's my neighborhood!"
Posted by:
Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 17, 2009 at 02:56 PM
Wauwatosa is a city of volunteers. One of my favorite volunteer groups is the Wauwatosa Beautification committee (WBC). This is a group dedicated to maintaining the beauty of our city by planting and maintaining shrubs & flower beds throughout the City of Wauwatosa. When budget cuts threatened to eliminate most of the beautiful flower beds in the medians and in the planters along North Avenue, the WBC stepped in. For the last few years I have helped by volunteering as a “gardening angel”, planting and maintaining the flower bed in the median in front of my office on 117th and North Avenue.
This organization is 100% volunteer staffed and funded, and depends upon the donations of individuals and corporations, such as Hawk’s Nursery.
The WBC also raises money through the annual Garden tour and this year is trying something new, a wine tasting. The first annual tasting with be held at Hawk’s Garden Center, 12217 Watertown Plank Rd, next Thursday, April 23rd, from 5:30-8:00 pm. For more information, along with locations to purchase advance tickets, please Click Here, or visit their web site:
www.wbc-wi.org. I look forward to seeing you there!
Posted By:
Beth Jaworski
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 17, 2009 at 02:48 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Negotiating skills are key to achieving successful outcomes for clients.
That’s why The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen, took the time to become Certified Real Estate Negotiators (CREN). The CREN certification gives us the professional negotiation techniques and skills we need to gain a competitive advantage for our clients. The right negotiation strategies and tactics help us make deals happen for you. thekuchtas.shorewest.com
Key steps to successful negotiation include:
1) contact the other party right away
2) keep the door of communication open at all times
3) supply comparable properties to support your price
4) always remain professional & ethical
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, we would welcome the opportunity to represent you. Call The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen at 262-894-6512, to learn the advantages of using a CREN professional, if you prefer email - ckuchta@shorewest.com.
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 17, 2009 at 11:56 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Looking for a great place to build your new home? Look no further! The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen, know the perfect place. Lot 8, Indian Head Drive, in the town of Lisbon, WI. The level lot measures 0.957 acres, and has a soil test on file stating it can serve a 3-4 bedroom home. Building restrictions are non-strict in the Mountain Shadows Subdivision, they use the guidelines set forth by the Town of Lisbon. Contact Colleen Kuchta at ckuchta@shorewest.com or 262-894-6512 for more details on building restrictions.
Lot 8, Indian Head Drive, within the Mountain Shadows Subdivision is served by the Arrowhead School District. It is right around the corner from Richmond Elementary School, which serves grades K4 through grade 8. Just North of the Mountain Shadows Subdivision, you will find Ironwood Golf Course. This outstanding golf course offers 27 holes, and breathtaking views along the way.
Lot 8 is minutes from shopping, restaurants, parks and more! The Kuchta’s- Kelly & Colleen are happy to gather more information for you and answer any questions you may have. Call 262-894-6512 or visit thekuchtas.shorewest.com.
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 16, 2009 at 03:29 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
A short sale in Real Estate happens when the owner of the property owes more on the property than what it sells for. This can happen when a home owner sells after property values have dropped drastically, or when an owner has taken out equity loans on top of the mortgage loans and the loans equal more than the value of the home.
Generally speaking, it will depend on your lender. Before you proceed with a short sale, you would be well advised to call them to find out how they structure and release the short sale.
As well as, how are they going to report the payoff? A short sale can reduce your credit score between 60-100 points, but there have been times when the short sale does not affect your credit score negatively at all. (A foreclosure would be a minimum of a 150 point deduction) This of course will depend on your specific situation. For example, a seller that has missed recent payments and is doing the short sale to avoid a foreclosure would take a bigger hit than the seller that is current on their mortgage, but property values have decreased so they are unable to sell the property for what they owe.
If you decide to sell, and are facing a short sale/foreclosure situation, be sure that the agent you select to list your home has experience in dealing with short sales. Each bank has their own requirements. The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen are very familiar with the short sale process/foreclosure process and have helped many sellers, as well as buyers with their transaction. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation, consultation 262-894-6512, or ckuchta@shorewest.com. We are here to help.
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 16, 2009 at 11:38 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Although the news is full of gloom and doom stories about the Real Estate market, I am here to tell you that it does not need to take months of waiting to sell your home. The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen, recently listed a 3 bedroom, split ranch home, in the Spaeth Farms subdivision, of Hartford. We received an offer within 13 days of being listed. Sellers were thrilled! They didn’t even need to counter. How is this possible?
Simple, when we researched the area, we looked at recent solds AND current active properties. We carefully looked into the history of each property to see where they started with their pricing, as well as, any price reductions that were done along the way. We put all of that information into our market analysis and our sellers were able to fully understand the way sales were trending in their local market. They chose a price that would let the buyers know they were marketing their home realistically - 13 days later, they had an offer.
Want results like this? Contact The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen at
262-894-6512 or at ckuchta@shorewest.com.
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 13, 2009 at 11:25 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Owning your own home is a very large investment. No matter where you chose to live; Waukesha, Washington, Milwaukee County - or anywhere in Wisconsin. So, don’t trust your home inspection to just anyone. Many times, the agent you are working with, has a team of professionals that he/she works with on a fairly regular basis. Family and friends mean well when they give you the name and number of an inspector that they have used in the past, but they are usually only able to base their recommendation on a single experience with an inspector. As agents, The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen, want you to know that there are different levels of service when it comes to an inspector. Contact us, at
262-894-6512 or at ckuchta@shorewest.com, if you have questions or concerns.
A few things that every good inspector does on a regular basis might include: open and close windows and doors to check for shifting of the foundation, run the water in sinks & tubs to check for leaks, make sure all toilets are secure, check the grade around the house & look for signs of water in the basement, climb on the roof (weather permitting)- check for soft spots - snow is heavy, you want to make sure your roof has the strength to hold it. The list continues…
The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen have seen all levels of service, and prices that range from $250-$585 for a single family home. Trust me when I say: “You don’t always get what you pay for.” We have seen great inspections at a low price & not so great inspections at a higher price. Ask your inspector what you get for that money. How does the inspector log what is seen during the course of the inspection? Will the roof be inspected with binoculars, or by climbing up there (weather permitting)? Are you welcome to follow along, or will it make him/her more comfortable to have you wait until the summary to see what has been inspected?
In the end, you are the only person that can choose your home inspector. If you get a few recommendations, and ask the right questions prior to the inspection; you will make a far better decision than running a Google search. Remember, your agent has your best interest in mind.
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 10, 2009 at 09:42 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Friends of ours recently lost their home to foreclosure. We can’t help but ask ourselves ‘How and why did this happen?’
As Realtors, we know that, in most cases a foreclosure can be avoided.
We have experience in negotiating with banks to help home owners avoid a foreclosure. If you are feeling overwhelmed, or can’t keep up with your mortgage; please contact us; The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen. We are happy to help. As always, there is no obligation to use our services. Our advice is free and confidential. ckuchta@shorewest.com or (262)894-6512.
A short sale in Real Estate occurs when the owner of the property owes more on the property than what it sells for. This can happen when a home owner sells after property values have dropped drastically, or when an owner has taken out equity loans on top of the mortgage loans and the loans equal more than the value of the home.
Before you proceed with a short sale, the first step would be to contact your lender and find out what their requirements are for the short sale package. Most commonly, you will be required to complete a financial worksheet and compose a hardship letter explaining why you are not able to pay the balance you owe in full. There is also an authorization letter that you will need to supply, allowing us to communicate with the bank on your behalf. In many cases, commission will be negotiated by the bank as well.
If you decide to sell, and are facing a short sale/foreclosure situation, be sure that the agent you select to list your home has experience in dealing with short sales. Each bank has their own requirements. Kelly & I are very familiar with the short sale process/foreclosure process and have helped many sellers, as well as buyers. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation, consultation.
If you have a question that you would like answered, drop us, The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen, a line.
We are here to help. We are easily reached at (262) 894-6512 or by email: ckuchta@shorewest.com,.
The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen
Posted By:
Colleen Kuchta
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 09, 2009 at 03:06 PM · Posted under Steve Bauman
It’s Masters time and that had me thinking about all the fabulous golf courses in metro Milwaukee.
One of the best courses and clubhouses in the Greater Milwaukee area is the Legend at Brandybrook in Wales, WI. The Legend offers a challenging 7,006-yard course, great amenities and one of the most beautiful settings in all of Waukesha County. The castle-like clubhouse offers spectacular views of the course and the nearby rolling terrain.
This private club offers three membership levels and boasts superb casual dining, banquet facilities, two swimming pools, and fitness center. It is one of the few country clubs that offers a refundable initiation fee for golf memberships.
The best way to describe the Legend is “youthful.” The course has been open for about six years and its staff claims to have the youngest membership of any country club in the area, with a median age of 45.
Beautifully integrated into the course is a residential living community that rivals virtually any neighborhood in the area. Most of the homes are less than five years old and vary in price from about $700,000 to more than $2 million.
We currently have four homes available for sale in the Legend. Each offers something different and exciting from the fantastic vistas of 373 Legend View Court to the over-the-top quality and condition found at 260 Legend Heights Court. The other two properties, 103 Legend Way and 114 Legend Way are right on the course.
You can check out all the great things the Legend has to offer at (www.thelegendatbrandybrook.com)
Additional information about the homes available in the Legend is available at (www.bitterberg.shorewest.com) or call me at 262 786-4001, ext. 103.
Posted By:
Steve Bauman
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 09, 2009 at 02:32 PM
One of Wauwatosa’s strengths is it’s neighborhoods. I am fortunate to live in the Olde Hillcrest neighborhood, an area just west of the Washington Highlands. The neighborhood runs from 68th Street west to 76th Street and from Milwaukee Avenue south to Lloyd (except for a little section west of 73rd Street, there the Olde Hillcrest northern boundry is Garfield Avenue).
The neighborhood has many assets, one of which is the Kneeland Walker house, which is pictured here. Owned by the Wauwatosa Historical Society, it is open for tours of groups of 10 or more, and is the site of the Olde Hillcrest neighborhood’s Christmas party, Easter egg hunt, and the neighborhood’s summer picnic.
The neighborhood association is very active and offers many chances for neighbors to get together and have some fun. In addition to the activities mentioned above, we also have an annual neighborhood rummage sale and numerous clubs. I belong to the dining out, restoration and wine clubs.
There is also a movie club, a book club, a senior’s club, a volunteer club, a helping hands club, and a walking club, along with a bunco group.
Please visit OHNA’s web site for even more information, www.OldeHillCrest.org.
Living in Olde Hillcrest you will never be lonely or bored!
Posted By:
Beth Jaworski
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 09, 2009 at 01:33 PM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Voted “A great place to live” by Money Magazine in 2007, Germantown is a northern suburb in the Greater Milwaukee Metro Area. Just a 20 minute commute to downtown, you will find Germantown a friendly place to live with good schools, parks and conveniences. Population is 19,750.
Whether you visit or live in Germantown, you will get the feel of its ethnicity when you see the German styled buildings and shopping areas….Walgreen’s has “Apotheke” on the front of the building, meaning Pharmacy. The village hall, Library are unmistakably German!
The historic main street is the home to many businesses, including several restaurants. Whether you are in the mood for a fish fry or famous ribs, you can find it here. Thirsty for imported German Bier? The Bier Stube has an extensive list of over 200 bottled beers and 6 draught beers, and a small menu including some German staples like 
Leberkase, my husband’s favorite! Looking for live music? Bubs on Saturdays has the latest for a small cover charge. Many of the Main Street eateries have outdoor seating in warmer weather.
Housing in Germantown ranges from some historic homes to beautiful new construction. As a resident of Germantown since 2004, we have found it a convenient and pleasant place to live and not just because we are German!
It’s not just my business, it’s my neighborhood!
Posted By:
Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 09, 2009 at 01:17 PM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Realtors do more than just sell homes! We not only sell the American Dream, we protect it too! Today in Madison, almost 400 Wisconsin Realtors took time away from their markets and attended Realtor in Government day. After a briefing at the Monona Terrace, Realtors from across the state walked to the Capitol and met with their legislators to discuss issues that affect their specific markets and you as a property owner. 
Topics included:
• Property Taxes Impact on Housing Affordability
• Protecting Property Owners From Assessor Trespassing so appraisers don’t have the ability to enter onto your private property without notice, nor limit of time, frequency nor length.
• Balancing Fair Wages and Fair Costs in order to balance the needs of working families with the ability to continue construction projects.
• Comprehensive Tax Reform that reduce taxes yet provide adequate funding for public services.
• Capital Gains Tax not increasing to 60% , but remaining at the same level so as not to negatively affect the housing market especially rentals, second homes and properties used for business.
After the Legislator meetings, Realtors returned to the Terrace and heard from Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, on his ideas on turning the economy around. He acknowledged the importance of the housing market in the improvement of the economy. He also signed the Assembly Bill (AB6) that “in addition to any other remedies that are available, a transferee (purchaser) in a residential real estate transaction may maintain an action in tort against the transferor (seller) of the real estate for fraud committed, or an intentional misrepresentation made, by the transferor in the residential real estate transaction.”
So while you would think that Realtors as one of the largest interest groups would be using their voices, time and PAC money to fight for self serving issues that affect their members, we really fight for all property owners. We fight to preserve the rights of property owners and issues that directly affect them, such as taxes and fees. Two years ago, Realtor In Government Day launched a giant public awareness campaign that successfully defeated an attempt to DOUBLE the transfer return fee! Today was well spent and the voice of all Wisconsin property owners was heard through your local Realtor in attendance! We were working today, PROTECTING THE AMERICAN DREAM!
Posted By:
Pat Tasker
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 08, 2009 at 04:40 PM
The Washington Highlands Subdivision is one of the most sought after locations in the city of Wauwatosa. These beautiful homes were built with significant architecture and quality craftsmanship of a by-gone era. The Washington Highlands neighborhood is on the National Register of Historical Places. This subdivision was built on what was originally the Pabst Farms which grew Hops for the Brewery. Some of the original homes and barns still exist. Uniquely designed, the subdivision streets form a German soldiers’ helmet. Please see http://tinyurl.com/c8h8az
Residents have pride of ownership and commit to keeping the historical significance preserved. You will find amazing landscaping and private park areas throughout. I take great pride in the success of being the Number 1 real estate agent within the Washington Highlands. Photos displayed in this post are a few of the homes that I have listed or sold.
Posted By:
Pat Schmidt
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 08, 2009 at 04:04 PM · Posted under Steve Bauman
Everybody is looking for a deal in this challenging real estate market. Short sale and foreclosure properties offer certain financial advantages but often come with some risks and many headaches.
One often overlooked source for a good deal is the relocation property. Relocation properties are homes where a Seller has been transferred and the employer now is paying the insurance, utilities and mortgage. The employer also is paying to have the snow plowed and the lawn mowed and all those other fun homeowner duties. Relocation companies are brought in by the employer to oversee these properties and negotiate a sale on their behalf.
Both the relocation company and the employer are anxious to sell the home quickly and often price them to do so. This presents a wonderful opportunity for the home buyer.
Besides value, relocation properties have other advantages. Unlike foreclosure properties, relocation properties typically are clean, well-cared-for homes. Typically, they have not been neglected nor damaged by the prior owners. These properties also are vacant and available for quick occupancy.
Offers are timely presented and responded to quickly by relocation companies unlike banks in short sale or foreclosure situations that sometimes take days or weeks to respond.
There are some quirks with dealing with relocation properties:
- No home sale contingencies. Offers contingent upon you selling your existing home will be rejected by the relocation company. However, if you have an accepted offer on your home, the relocation company will consider an offer that is written contingent upon its successful closing.
- Your offer must be in writing. Only written offers will be considered. However, counter offers are made verbally until agreement is reached.
- Pre-approval letter. A pre-approval letter for the amount to be borrowed must accompany any offer.
- Corporate client review. Even though you have reached a verbal understanding with the relocation company, your offer is still subject to review by the employer.
- Signature delay. Once the employer has agreed, it still may take a few days for the relocation company to sign and return the Offer. Contingency deadlines do not begin until the signed documents have been delivered from the relocation company so there is no need to conduct your home inspection or order an appraisal until after you receive a copy of the signed offer.
- “As is” clause. Virtually all relocation addenda include a clause that absolves the relocation company from any liability from the transaction. The relocation company is not making any representations as to the condition of the home. It is imperative that you have a reliable home inspector evaluate the property.
- Repair credits. If issues arise from the home inspection, most relocation companies will offer credit to offset the cost of repair.
Relocation properties are an attractive avenue to explore if you have been searching for a well-cared-for home at below market value.
We currently have a fantastic home at 2 Fox Run, Oconomowoc Lake, WI, that really illustrates the savings available with relocation properties. This well-cared-for four bedroom, four bath ranch on 3-plus acres is currently listed for $798,731. The list price is a whopping 44 percent less than the village’s estimated fair market value of $1.41 million. The house is located in a subdivision, the Ponds of Pabst Farm, full of million dollar plus homes.
How do we know so much about relocation homes? The three agents who make up the Bitterberg Group have more than 70 years of combined real estate experience, with career sales of almost $800 million. Each year about 60 percent of our business is relocation.
We have a list of all relocation properties available through Shorewest and would be more than happy to see if any of these are a fit for you. Just call me at 262 786-4001, ext. 103 or email me at bitterberggroup@shorewest.com and let’s see if we can help you find a sharp relocation property that meets your needs.
Posted By:
Steve Bauman
Comments Off (1)
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 06, 2009 at 09:20 AM
Before you ponder issues such as condo vs. house and three bedrooms vs. five, deciding exactly where to live is one of the first steps in searching for homes in Milwaukee. Greater Milwaukee boasts a variety of suburbs to choose from, ranging from bustling urban neighborhoods and upscale lakeshore communities to rural, all-American towns and villages. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the suburbs of Milwaukee will narrow the search and help you easily find your little piece of utopia in this growing Midwestern city.
North Milwaukee Suburbs
Milwaukee’s North Shore region is one of the most desirable residential areas in the city, not only because of its close proximity to downtown Milwaukee and easy access to Lake Michigan recreation, but also because it offers a wide mix of housing that includes rural estates and million dollar lakeshore properties, as well as more modest neighborhoods perfect for young families. The North Shore suburbs of Milwaukee include Brown Deer, River Hills, Bayside, Foxpoint, Glendale, Whitefish Bay, and Shorewood. Three points of pride in this region are Brown Deer’s nationally-recognized public golf course, Whitefish Bay’s East Silver Spring Drive shopping district, and Fox Point’s Schlitz Audubon Center, which boasts 187 acres of natural meadows, ponds, woods and Lake Michigan coastline.
West Milwaukee Suburbs
While it cannot include lakefront properties among its list of virtues, Milwaukee’s western sector offers its own list of attributes that attract the attention of many Milwaukee homebuyers. From eating elephant ears at the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis to taking in a ballgame at Miller Park—home of MLB’s Milwaukee Brewers—residents of the city’s western suburbs enjoy all the good things in life, but they also reap the benefits of being close to work. West Milwaukee is currently undergoing much commercial development, and the suburb of Wauwatosa boasts the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center—a major employer that is home to two leading hospitals and the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Southwest Milwaukee Suburbs
The Southwest Milwaukee Suburbs of Greenfield, Hales Corners, Greendale, and Franklin offer a little something for every Milwaukee homebuyer. Partly rural and partly urban, Milwaukee’s Southwest suburbs contain many brand new residential developments as well as older, more established neighborhoods, such as Greendale, built in the 1930’s to model an English garden town. Southwest Milwaukee’s biggest attraction is its large number of parks and green spaces; in fact, the region is home to the Root River Parkway, Whitnall Park and Golf Course, the Boerner Botanical Gardens, and the Wehr Nature Center.
South Milwaukee Suburbs
Among its many attributes, the South Milwaukee region boasts quiet, clean neighborhoods, easy access to I-94 and the General Mitchell International Airport, and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan shoreline. The communities of St. Francis, Cudahy, and South Milwaukee, all stemming from early 19th century industrial parks, possess an old-world atmosphere while offering new and exciting residential developments. St. Francis, for example, saw the recent addition of a lakeshore condominium and townhouse project that has brought it up to par with the chic North Shore. The city of Oak Creek, the largest of the South Shore suburbs, is a desirable residential locale for growing families because it offers more than 22 neighborhoods and 24 playgrounds and parks.
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
April 02, 2009 at 03:11 PM
Since its origin in 1946, Shorewest, REALTORS® has always been a family-owned company dedicated to helping other families in Wisconsin. We’ve grown from a one-person office in Wauwatosa to 27 sales offices covering a twelve-county area. And the Shorewest “family” now includes over 1,700 people as committed to Wisconsin as the day John A. Horning started the company out of his home over 60 years ago.
Today, the Shorewest family of companies includes Wisconsin Mortgage Corporation, Heritage Title Services, Shorewest Real Estate Institute and Shorewest Insurance Associates, plus Home Closing, Marketing, Information Technology, Home Services, Career Development and Relocation Center divisions.
Staying true to our mission and values.
Midwestern values like hard work, dedication and a family-first philosophy are deeply ingrained in the people of Shorewest. As a family-owned company since 1946, all of us are driven every day by the following mission statement, adopted October 1986:
We are a team…
Proudly independent;
Dedicated to serving the housing needs of Wisconsin;
Committed to unsurpassed customer service;
Pledged to share our talents for mutual growth and prosperity.
statement decoration
Steady leadership for the road ahead.
Joe and John Horning
Joe and John P. Horning represent the third generation of leadership at Shorewest, having taken the reins in 2002. Joe (President) and John P. (Executive Vice President) joined Shorewest after college and have since proven themselves as accomplished business leaders.
The people who make it all happen.
You don’t become Wisconsin’s Largest Home Seller™ without an exceptional sales staff. At Shorewest, our 1,300-plus associates know the market and are driven to put your needs first. With 27 offices located throughout Wisconsin—each with a full-time manager for support—you’ll get the responsiveness you need whether you’re buying or selling a home. We train our people to be the best, so the service you receive is nothing short of just that.
Comments Off
·
Share With a Friend
">
