Nicole Charles & Associates

Check out 910 N. Thompson Dr. #4 on Madison's East Side!!

2010-09-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

Attention first-time buyers! Grab this one before it's gone! This two bedroom condo on Madison’s east side features private entry, an open floor plan with beautiful hardwood flooring, lots of counter space and cabinets in the kitchen, an attached garage, and even a deck! Upstairs you’ll find two large bedrooms with lots of closet space, a convenient linen closet, and a second bathroom. The home is situated in a quiet neighborhood, but has all the stores of East Towne Mall just blocks away!

For more information about this home or to schedule a private showing contact Nicole at (608) 513-0021!

New Listing! Virtual Tour of 2605 Wentworth Drive, Madison, WI 53719

2010-09-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

A Four Bedroom Ranch in Scenic Heights!

Come take a look at this perfect 4 bedroom, 3 bath ranch! Impress your guests with vaulted ceilings and a newly tiled kitchen floor. The dining area has great light and a breakfast bar, and walks out to a large deck and green space. The finished lower level holds a huge family room, a 4th bedroom perfect for an office, a large storage room, a laundry room, and a large spa-like bathroom complete with jetted tub. This move-in ready home in the desirable Scenic Heights neighborhood is waiting for you!

For more information about this home or to schedule a private showing please contact Nicole directly at (608) 513-0021!

Virtual Tour of our New Listing - A Beautifully Maintained Tri-Level in Sandstone Ridge!

2010-09-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

6314 Urich Terrace, Madison, WI 53719

MLS #1604648

Located just minutes from Epic, TDS, Hwy 151, Super Target, and all the west side hot spots, this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom home is the one you've been waiting for! Chef's eat-in kitchen w/large island & plenty of cupboard space, wood lam floors, lots of windows (including skylight!), newly tiled bathroom floors, deck & patio, finished lower level & 4th level sub basement leaves plenty of room for storage! Nicely sized tree edged lot backing up to large neighborhood park! Gorgeous fireplace & more!

For more information on this home or to schedule a private showing contact Nicole Charles directly at (608) 513-0021! And Happy House Hunting!

Dane County Rate of Sales in the Last 6 Months

2010-08-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

Madison Area Waterfront Properties under $300k!

2010-08-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

To view all waterfront, single-family home properties currently available in the Madison area under $300,000 click here!

(photo courtesy of Ebbe Realty)

5246 Ridge Oak Dr on Madison's East Side!

2010-08-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

Come take a look at this beautiful transitional on a quiet east side cul-de-sac! The home has been meticulously maintained, inside and out. The sunny kitchen offers custom cabinetry and the dining area features a patio door leading to the large deck. The finished lower level is perfect for movie-watching and even has an exercise area. The lower level patio door leads to a screened-in porch looking over the large, green lot. Upstairs, you'll find a oversized master bedroom, and a second bedroom offers hardwood flooring.

To learn more about this property for sale

contact Nicole directly at (608) 513-0021!

What is a "Cream Puff" house?

2010-08-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

"So what is a cream puff house, anyway?"

"A Cream Puff house is one that is move-in ready, has loads of charm, and is in unusually good condition. Sometimes people also use the term 'Doll House.' It's a great compliment!"

Corn Fest 2010 - Aug 19th thru 22nd

2010-08-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Join us for the 2010 Sweet Corn Fest August 19-22 at Angell Park!!

Sun Prairie, Wisconsin will host the annual Sweet Corn Festival Thursday, August 19 through Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Angell Park, near the intersection of Highway 19 and Highway N.
For the low cost of $1.00 admission on Saturday and Sunday per person for gate walk-in, attendees can enjoy free entertainment, children's activities and more. Children age 6 and under are free admission, and if you park on the grounds admission is included in the price. Buttons are $1.50 for unlimited entrance to the Festival. Parking is $5.00 per vehicle and includes admission.

Over 100,000 people from around the Midwest attend the event which serves over 70 tons of sweet corn during the weekend! Steamed sweet corn is available on Saturday and Sunday only from noon to 7 pm. A tote of corn is $6.00 and single ears are $1.50. Uncooked corn is available to purchase on Saturday and Sunday for $5.00 per bag.

This event features a carnival-midway complete with rides and games, food booths, live bands, craft show, petting zoo, kiddie korner with large inflatables, family entertainment and much more. Thursday and Friday night are carnival wristband nights with unlimited rides from 6-10pm for $20.

Thursday night kicks off the event with the parade down Main Street at 6:00 pm. Festival grounds feature the carnival, booths, and beer tent Thursday and Friday nights after 6 pm. All activities are in place on Saturday and Sunday when the park opens at 11:30 am.

403 Lance Lane, Madison, WI 53716

2010-08-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

Check out this absolute cream puff from your huge deck with pergola overlooking almost a half acre private lot on a cul de sac, in the city of Madison! This is almost unheard of! Beautifully maintained and move in ready, this bright and sunny three bed, 2 bath home with tons of windows will be hard to beat. The home features hardwood floors, a fieldstone fireplace, a finished basement with rec room and extra storage, and a 2-car extra deep garage. Updates include invisible fencing, newer appliances, newer roof, and brand new gutters. Come take a look before it's too late!

Chilled Avocado-Cucumber Soup

2010-08-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

It's just too warm to turn on the oven. Why not make your family a chilled soup for dinner?

Chilled Avocado-Cucumber Soup

from MarthaStewart.com

Ingredients
1 English cucumber, peeled and diced
1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and diced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
1 scallion, white and pale-green parts only, coarsely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
1 jalapeno, seeded and coarsely chopped
1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
1 cup cold water
1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions
1.Puree ingredients in a blender. Divide soup and reserved cucumber and avocado among 4 bowls. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 30 minutes. Garnish with cilantro sprigs.

(Photo and recipe from http://www.marthastewart.com/)

Dane County home sales up again in June, but dip expected in July

2010-07-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

Early reports for June home sales in Dane County are coming in positive, with sales of single-family homes up compared to last year for the 11th time in the past 12 months and condominium sales up for the 10th straight month.

But these increases -- according to a preliminary report, about 17 percent from last June and 24 percent year-to-date -- could represent very nearly the last gasp of the federal government's home buyer tax credit, which expired for new contracts on April 30.

Home buyers originally had until June 30 to close those sales, so the final June sales report should be the last monthly tally to show strong influence from the government incentive, which was worth up to $8,000 for first-time buyers and $6,500 for some repeat buyers.

(A last-minute extension of the closing deadline to Sept. 30 by the federal government means a few more incentive-related sales could dribble in before the October report, but local agents believe the majority of the last incentive-related sales here closed in June).

Out in the field, meanwhile, some local agents say they've definitely noticed a drop in buyer activity since the end of April.

"Showing activity and web activity are lower now," said Dan Miller, a Keller Williams agent who tracks sales figures from the South Central Wisconsin MLS at DaneCountyMarket.com.

"And even though interest rates are the lowest in history, many buyers are shopping at a very deliberate price," Miller added. "This is in sharp contrast to the buyers from March and April who were rushing to make their offers and close on their homes before the tax credit expired."

(Note the Campbell Communications home buyer traffic survey, released June 21, which shows how home buyer traffic across the country has clearly declined since April 30. The survey was based on responses from 3,000 real estate agents nationwide.)

Locally, preliminary figures also show the median combined home-and-condo price in Dane County was up 3 percent in June but down 1 percent year-to-date.

(Article by Karen Rivedal, http://host.madison.com/wsj/business/real-estate/ )

Upcoming Events this Weekend in Madison, WI: 6/23/10 to 6/27/10

2010-06-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 6/23

Hilldale Farmer's Market, Hilldale Mall, 7am to 2pm
American Red Cross Blood Drive, State Office Building GEF III at 125 S. Webster St., 8:15AM to 1:00PM
Parade of Homes, Tour 26, 3pm to 7pm
"Family Camping: Destinations on One Tank of Gas," Free, 7pm to 8 pm, West Towne REI Store

Thursday, 6/24

Free T'ai Chi Class, Monona Terrace, 12pm to 1245pm
Free Capitol City Band Concert, 7pm to 8pm, Rennebohm Park
Blues and Rock Concert, Monona Terrace Rooftop, 7pm to 9pm
Mallard's vs. Green Bay Bullfrogs baseball game, Warner Park, starts at 7:05pm

Friday, 6/25

Stoughton Farmer's Market, 7am to 1pm, Stoughton Plaza Shopping Center on Main St.
"Looking Down Town" kite aerial photography of Madison exhibit, displayed at the Alicia Ashman Branch of the Madison Public Library on High Point Rd., 9am to 9pm
Bluegrass Jamboree, High Noon Saloon, starts at 9:30pm
Anna Wang and the Oh Boys, the Come Back Inn, starts at 9:30pm

Saturday, 6/26

Dane County Farmer's Market on the Capitol Square, 6am to 2pm
Native American Artificact and Antique Show, free admission, Sauk County Fairgrounds in Baraboo, 9am to 5pm
Quilts, Fabric, and Fibers Art Show, mustic by Moo Grass Band and the Swamp Bottom Boys, 12pm to 8pm, LA Rossing Building in Argyle, WI
Sand Castle Building Contest, prizes for Most Original, Smallest, Roundest, and Best In Show, register at 266-6345, hosted by the Madison Public Library Central Branch
Fish Fry, serving 4pm to 9pm, music by the Greg Anderson Band, Adam's Firehouse in Argyle, WI
Atlas Improv Comedy Show, 8pm and 10pm, Electric Earth Cafe on West Wash
Headliner Mike Merryfield at the Comedy Club on State, 8pm and 10:30pm

Sunday, 6/27

Garden Tool Donation Collection Benefit, benefits the Community Action Coalition, donate tools at the Northside Farmer's Market, 8:30am to 12:30pm, Northside Town Center and Sherman and Northport
Ice Age Trail Restoration, the prairies and Table Bluff need your help to remove invasive weeds and shrubs, 9am to 12pm, Table Bluff Rd. in Cross Plains, bring water!
Tame Cat Adoption Fair, 2pm to 4pm, Sly's Place Shelter on Post Rd.

Want to know what else is going on around here? Visit http://calendar.madison.com/

Home Decorating Design Inspiration

2010-06-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

Need some home decorating inspiration? Here's a Sneak Peak at the home of Hilda Grahnat, a 23 year old graphic design student from Sweden who has a fantastic eye for collage and all things vintage.

(Photos from designspongeonline.com)

Un-Pinking a '50s Kitchen - From the DIY Network

2010-06-16T10:54:00.000-07:00

What's Eggshell Paint? What Color Should I Pick?

2010-06-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

Thinking about painting the living room? Watch these first!

Report shows May home sales, condo prices up

2010-06-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Total Dane County home sales were up in May compared to a year ago for the 10th time in the past 11 months, with activity remaining heaviest in the $100,000 to $250,000 price range.

The South Central Wisconsin MLS this week reported 676 house and condominium sales for Dane County in May, up 18.4 percent from 571 in May 2009. The median county price in May was down 2.4 percent from a year ago, or $200,125 compared to $205,000 in May 2009.

(See the full MLS report in the attached PDF. It includes sales numbers and listings for counties throughout the region and a breakdown of additional statistics for May. Among other things, the additional data shows how people financed new homes in May -- the number paying cash vs. a conventional mortage vs. WHEDA, FHA, etc., as well as reports showing the number of current listings by price range and the number of sold listings by price range and number of bedrooms.)

Year-to-date through May, Dane County saw 2,170 sales, up 28 percent from 1,696 in the same period last year. The median price through May was down 1.7 percent, to $199,500 from $203,000 in the same period last year.

Kevin King, executive vice president of the MLS, attributed the increased sales and lagging median prices to the "flurry of activity" generated by the federal first-time home buyer tax credit for purchases signed by the end of April and closed by June 30.

First-time buyers generally buy lower-priced homes, helping to keep the median price down, among other factors such as increased foreclosures and depressed values from the housing market collapse.

King also noted pending federal legislation -- first reported in Property Trax here -- could extend the closing deadline to Sept. 30, in the face of reports that many home buyers using the credit may not be able to close by June 30 because banks are so busy processing all the new purchase agreements.

Looking at houses and condos separately in Dane County, the MLS report showed sales of houses in May up 20 percent from last year and sales of condos up 12 percent. The median sales price for houses alone was $215,000, down less than 2 percent from May 2009, while the median price for condo sales in May rose 2.3 percent to $145,000 - for only the second time this year.

Dan Miller, a Keller Williams agent who analyzes market data at DaneCountyMarket.com, called May's sales report "good," but maintained the local housing market has already started changing from what it was in May, with noticeably less buyer activity.

"Now that two years of stimulus programs have come to an end, buyer web traffic and buyer showings have slowed," Miller said. "Buyers are still out in the market, but in lower numbers."

"Sellers, it's important for you to understand the market has shifted," Miller added. "Buyers, you have plenty of opportunities in this new market."

(You can see Miller's report of the May numbers here and his blog analysis here.)

Miller also predicted that June sales would continue to be good, while the July housing report would show a drop in sales.

In other counties throughout the region, results in May were mixed, the MLS reported.

Increased sales were seen in Dodge, Green and Rock counties, while Grant County sales in May matched the tally a year ago and sales were down in Columbia, Iowa and Sauk counties. Year-to-date through May, sales in all counties were up from 2009, except in Grant County, where they were down less than 4 percent.

King said "key indicators" suggest continued moderate sales in the coming months, amid cautious optimism by analysts that the market is finally "on its way to normal."

"Inventories are still ample in most locations and price ranges," King said. "Prices continue to be relatively stable, with no major fluctuations in any direction. Interest rates are even lower today than in April, when the tax credit was winding down."

(Article by Karen Rivedal, Wisconsin State Journal Reporter)

3927 Highway JJ in Vermont, WI 53515

2010-06-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

This beautiful Hawthorne Hill Estate sits on a private hilltop surrounded by the natural beauty of Dane County. This 5 year old all-brick home sits on +/-125 acres with woods, pasture, tillable land, and a small pond. The interior features five bedrooms, 6.5 baths, formal living and dining spaces, a library, a study and a wine cellar. The main level owner suite has a private sun room, double walk-in closets, tile shower & pajama bar. The additional in-law suite features separate laundry facilities. The home boasts an impressive heated 4-car garage, and the highest quality materials were used through every aspect of construction.

- 5 bedrooms
- 6.5 baths
- Built in 2005
- 6600 square feet
- Wisconsin Heights School District
- $1,995,000
- 56 days on market as of 6/14/10
- MLS #1591287

To schedule a showing of this property

call Nicole at (608) 513-0021!

(Listing information and photos courtesy of Mad City Homes.)

Effort begins to extend tax credit closing date

2010-06-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

A bill introduced last week in the U.S. Senate could extend the deadline from June 30 to Sept. 30 for closings on homes purchased using the federal tax credit.

The credit -- valued at $8,000 for first-time buyers and $6,500 for repeat buyers -- prompted a rush of sales this spring timed to beat the April 30 deadline for signed purchase agreements.

But now the June 30 deadline for closing on those sales is looking more and more problematic for many buyers, precisely because that rush is making so much extra work for bank officers and home appraisers who have to sign off on the paperwork.

Buyers trying to use short sales to purchase a house also are seeing weeks or months of delays as those often difficult transactions work their way through the involved lenders.

(In a short sale, a lender agrees to let a struggling homeowner accept less than what's owed for the house as a compromise seen as preferable to letting the home lapse into foreclosure. But it can take a long time and much documentation to get permission from the mortgage holders to do a short sale and then still more time to negotiate an acceptable price with the buyer.)

According to a blog entry sponsored by Total Mortgage, the National Association of Realtors says nearly 180,000 potential buyers who signed agreements before April 30 to get the credit could lose it because they won't have time to close before June 30.

As a solution, U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nevada, last week co-sponsored a measure that would extend the closing deadline to Sept. 30. It's difficult to know if the measure will be approved, though, because it's been attached to another bill containing some controversial tax initiatives.

What do local agents, buyers and sellers think about extending the tax credit closing deadline? Is there a need for it here? Are you having trouble getting your deal closed by June 30?

(Article by Karen Rivedal, reporter for the Wisconsin State Journal)

Five Waterfront Homes For Sale in Madison, Wisconsin!

2010-05-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

To read more information and view more photos of the homes listed below please visit: http://u.nu/94xda

1305 Nishishin Trl., Monona, WI 53716

$499,900, on Lake Monona

MLS #1588933, Courtesy of Prudential

4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2371 square feet

2933 Camp Leonard Rd., Dunn, WI 53558

$499,500, on Lake Waubesa

MLS #1576868, Courtesy of Re/Max

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2350 square feet

2157 Middleton Beach Rd., Middleton, WI 53562

$459,900, on Lake Mendota

MLS #1587427, Courtesy of Stark Company

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1288 square feet

5720 Tecumseh Ave., Monona, WI 53716

$419,900, on Lake Monona

MLS #1584032, Courtesy of Stark

3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1790 square feet

1118 Birch Haven Cir., Monona, WI 53716

$299,900, on Lake Monona

MLS #1593007, Courtesy of Restaino

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1950 square feet

What will $300,000 buy in the Madison, WI area?

2010-05-20T11:08:00.000-07:00

Downtown-Near West

6 Lathrop St., Madison, WI 53726
$319,900, $170 per square foot
MLS#1531532, Courtesy of Madison Property
3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1882 square feet
Hardwood floors, original woodwork, screened front porch, two car detached garage, walk-up attic, full finished basement, 1 block from Camp Randall Stadium

Downtown - Near East

1225 Sherman Ave., Madison, WI 53703
$299,900, $165 per square foot
MLS #1592377, Courtesy of Re/Max
4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1821 square feet
Near Tenney Park, oak trim, hardwood floors, many stained glass pieces, woodburning fireplace, 3 season porch, deck, 1 car detached garage

West Side

3725 Ross St., Madison, WI 53705
$299,000, $145 per square foot
MLS #1585323, Courtesy of First Weber
3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 2068 square feet
Woodburning fireplace, lots of storage spaces, screened porch, large deck, fenced yard, finished attic, tile floors, 1 car attached garage, skylights, central air, formal dining room

East Side

265 Kensington Dr., Maple Bluff, WI 53704
$319,000, $180 per square feet
MLS #1592844, Courtesy of Fair Fee Madison
3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1777 square feet
Historic neighborhood, updated but retained classic charm, vintage decorative hardware, large deck, many parks and swimming pier nearby, 2 blocks from Maple Bluff Country Club, formal dining room, solid surface counters, wood burning fireplace, 1 car attached garage, central air, wood flooring

Middleton

8630 Stonebrook Cir., Middleton, WI 53562
$299,900, $146 per square foot
MLS #1591126, Courtesy of SellBuildBuy.com
4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2053 square feet
Cherry cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, open cathedral ceilings, large deck, custom tile shower, brand new carpet, custom blinds, newly refinished hardwood floors, central air, gas burning fireplace, 9 years old, full walkout finished basement, 2+ car attached garage, tile floors, skylights

Verona

1103 Hemlock Dr., Verona, WI 53593
$309,900, $118 per square foot
MLS #1578645, Courtesy of Re/Max
3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2624 square feet
Granite countertops, custom cabinets, vaulted ceilings, finished exposed basement, updated lighting, large master suite, screened porch, 2 car attached garage, breakfast bar, gas fireplace, 9 years old

Sun Prairie

1832 Stonehaven Dr., Sun Prairie, WI 53590
$309,900, $83 per square foot
MLS #1593614, Courtesy of First Weber
4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3732 square feet
Ranch style, 3 car garage, huge kitchen, 2-sided gas burning fireplace, main level laundry, sun room, fenced yard, wetbar in finished lower level, new carpet, central air, tile floors, walk-in closets, hardwood floors

Cottage Grove

724 Chestnut Crest, Cottage Grove, WI 53527
$314,900, $79 per square foot
MLS #1587086, Courtesy of Liaison Realty Group
4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 4000 square feet
2 laundry rooms on main floor, indoor spa room, two gas fireplaces, one fireplace is 2-sided, tile and hardwood floors, ranch style, breakfast bar, 3+ car garage, full partially-finished basement, walk-in closets, vaulted ceilings, skylights, large deck

Waunakee

608 Augusta Dr., Waunakee, WI 53597
$309,900, $135 per square foot
MLS #1592028, Courtesy of Re/Max
4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2300 square feet
Cathedral ceilings, large kitchen with cabinets galore, gas fireplace, 3+ car garage, split level deck, landscaped yard, breakfast bar, central air, wood floors, walk-in closets

Mean Marlys Jean's Baked Oatmeal Recipe

2010-05-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

Mean Marlys Jean's Baked Oatmeal

2-1/4 cups Quick Quaker Oaks, uncooked
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt (optional)
3-1/3 cups skim milk
4 egg whites OR 1/2 cup egg substitute
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 Tbsp. vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 8-inch square glass baking dish with no-stick cooking spray.
In large bowl, combine oats, sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and salt; mix well. In medium bowl, combine milk, egg whites, oil, and vanilla; mix well. Add dry ingredients; mix well. Pour into baking dish.
Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until center is set. Serve with milk or yogurt and fruit, if desired. Store tightly covered in refrigerator.

Note: To reheat, place single serving in microwavable bowl and microwave on HIGH about 30 seconds.

Nutrition Information: Calories 260, Calories from Fat 30, Total Fat 3.5g, Saturated Fat 0.5g, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 90mg, Fiber 3g.

Upcoming Events at Madison's Alliant Energy Center!

2010-05-07T11:49:00.001-07:00

A preview of some upcoming events at the Alliant Energy Center!

To view a complete schedule of events visit: Alliant Energy Upcoming Events

May 2010
5/27 to 5/30 - Madison Classic Horse Show
5/28 to 5/31 - World's Largest Brat Fest

July 2010
7/8 - Star Wars in Concert
7/10 - Madtown Throwdown Fight
7/14 to 7/18 - Dane County Fair
7/14 - Simon and Garfunkel

August 2010
8/6 to 8/8 - MS Bike Tour
8/28 - Art Pottery Show and Sale

September 2010
9/28 to 10/2 - World's Dairy Expo

October 2010
10/22 to 10/24 - Madison Magazine's Food and Wine Show
10/23 - Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk Fundraiser

November 2010
11/7 - Wisconsin Dog Fair
11/20 to 11/21 - Brava Magazine's Women's Expo
11/20 to 11/21 - One of a Kind Rubber Stamp and Scrapbook Show

December 2010
12/23 - Holiday Blood Drive

January 2011
1/15 to 1/16 - Wedding Planner and Guide Bridal Show
1/29 - Isthmus Beer and Cheese Fest

Top Home Buys in Madison's Best Neighborhoods!

2010-04-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

To schedule a showing of any of the following properties call Nicole Charles at (608) 513-0021!

1. The Williamson-Marquette Neighborhood

1130 Jenifer St., Madison

$204,900, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1071 square feet

MLS #1581618, Courtesy of Stark

851 Jenifer St., Madison
$635,000, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3000 square feet
MLS #1567748, Courtesy of First Weber

1411 Morrison St., Madison

$649,900, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2250 square feet

MLS #1577595, Courtesy of Bunbury and Associates

1249 Willy St., Madison

$889,900, 1 bedroom, 3 baths, 4000 square feet

MLS #1581816, Courtesy of Coldwell Banker

2. The Westmorland Neighborhood

638 Anthony, Madison

$254,900, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1601 square feet

MLS #1590616, Courtesy of Bunbury and Associates

584 Toepfer, Madison

$259,900, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1358 square feet

MLS #1587702, Courtesy of First Weber

506 Toepfer, Madison

$300,000, 3 bedroom, 2 baths, 1458 square feet

MLS #1587655, Courtesy of First Weber

3. The University Heights Neighborhood

301 Highland, Madison

$240,000, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1163 square feet

MLS #1586681, Courtesy of Restaino

2509 Kendall, Madison

$257,500, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1180 square feet

MLS #1578296, Courtesy of the Christensen Company

2210 Chadbourne, Madison

$284,900, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1924 square feet

MLS #1569887, Courtesy of Restaino

2106 Monroe, Madison

$294,900, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1324 square feet

MLS #1587179, Courtesy of Stark

2021 Van Hise, Madison

$574,900, 6 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2547 square feet

MLS #1586843, Courtesy of Restaino

1711 Kendall, Madison

$898,900, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 5336 square feet

MLS #1579342, Courtesy of Stark

4. The Dudgeon-Monroe Neighborhood

712 Glenway, Madison

$199,000, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 827 square feet

MLS #1591162, Courtesy of Coldwell Banker

4249 Beverly, Madison

$204,900, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1285 square feet

MLS #1581777, Courtesy of First Weber

4245 Mohawk, Madison

$249,900, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1707 square feet

MLS #1590777, Courtesy of Stark

722 Chapman, Madison

$264,900, 4 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1278 square feet

MLS #1579057, Courtesy of Restaino

4242 Beverly, Madison

$289,000, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1948 square feet

MLS #1585698, Courtesy of First Weber

4209 Waban Hill, Madison

$675,000, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3260 square feet

MLS #1583801, Courtesy of Restaino

4125 Iroquois, Madison

$898,000, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3308 square feet

MLS #1587622, Courtesy of Restaino

5. The First Settelment Neighborhood

121 S. Hamilton #306, Madison

$135,000, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 454 square feet

MLS #1571960, Courtesy of Stark

309 W. Washington #713, Madison

$244,900, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 891 square feet

MLS #1590710, Courtesy of Century 21

519 N. Pinckney #D, Madison

$245,000, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1243 square feet

MLS #1585489, Courtesy of Restaino

360 W. Washington #105, Madison

$265,000, 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1242 square feet

MLS #1588946, Courtesy of Stark

360 W. Washington #715, Madison

$374,000, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1460 square feet

MLS #1587995, Courtesy of Dines Incorporated

100 Wisconsin #1200, Madison

$2,299,000, 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3270 square feet

MLS #1572166, Courtesy of Robinson Group

6. The Tenny-Lapham Neighborhood

321 N. Brearly, Madison

$234,900, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1302 square feet

MLS #1590566, Courtesy of Century 21

1125 E. Gorham, Madison

$235,000, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1503 square feet

MLS #1591701, Courtesy of Keller Williams

1029 E. Gorham, Madison

$245,000, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2044 square feet

MLS #1579941, Courtesy of First Weber

315 N. Ingersoll, Madison

$249,000, 4 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1957 square feet

MLS #1585249, Courtesy of Bunbury and Associates

7. The Vilas Neighborhood

820 High St., Madison

$189,900, 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1408 square feet

MLS #1585445, Courtesy of Prudential

911 Delaplaine, Madison

$244,000, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1646 square feet

MLS #1580786, Courtesy of Restaino

513 S. Mills, Madison

$259,000, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1918 square feet

MLS #1591496, Courtesy of First Weber

526 S. Orchard, Madison

$279,900, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1518 square feet

MLS #1591612, Courtesy of Keller Williams

8. The Schenk-Atwood Neighborhood

2301 Hoard, Madison

$179,900, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1358 square feet

MLS #1591202, Courtesy of Keller Williams

3202 Thorp, Madison

$184,900, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1066 square feet

MLS #1589790, Courtesy of Cooper Spransy Realtors

221 S. Fair Oaks, Madison

$188,500, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1076 square feet

MLS #1588068, Courtesy of First Weber

2957 Union, Madison

$224,900, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1491 square feet

MLS #1583445, Courtesy of Coldwell Banker

2110 Linden, Madison

$259,900, 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1238 square feet

MLS #1575267, Courtesy of Restaino

30 N. 3rd St., Madison

$265,000, 3 bedroom, 1.5 baths, 1828 square feet

MLS #1588050, Courtesy of Stark

Distressed Properties Index Rises in Dane County

2010-04-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

Distressed Properties Index rises
KAREN RIVEDAL krivedal@madison.com
Friday, April 23, 2010

Dane County’s Distressed Properties Index in March increased to 0.26, up from 0.20 a year ago and slightly up from February’s value of 0.25.

Available at DaneCountyMarket.com, the index charts the prevalence of distressed properties, or those related to foreclosure or the threat of foreclosure.

The March reading suggests more than a quarter of all homes sales in the county involved distressed properties, and it also was a new high for the county since the data began being tracked in January 2006, when the index stood at 0.05 percent.

Index creators Dan Miller, a Madison real estate agent, and Peter Zarov, a Madison title lawyer, said they expect the percentage of distressed property sales to remain above 20 percent for at least the next year due to the continuing rise in foreclosure filings.

(Article from http://www.madison.com/, written by Karen Rivedal)

Another Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension?

2010-04-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension – 2010 Government Tax Credit Expires on April 30th
April 23, 2010

The first time home buyer tax credit extension has been a very hot topic but it does not appear as if the $8000 or $6500 tax credit will be extended past April 30th, 2010. Anything could happen at the eleventh hour but at this time there is not a bill for these credits to be extended or expanded.

In November of 2009 the Obama administration decided to not only extend the first time home buyer tax credit but to expand it as well. There is currently a $6500 tax credit for move up home buyers. If you have been living in your primary residence for five years or more you could qualify for the move up home buyers tax credit.

Over the next few days it will be very interesting to see what happens in terms of the first time home buyer tax credit. Many analysts feel as if the housing market could greatly struggle if this tax credit is not extended until later in 2010. Only time will tell what will happen but it should be an interesting conclusion to April.

(Article from www.subprimeblogger.com, Written by Tiffany Mann)

Build the House in the Hill

2010-04-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

By Theo Schell-Lambert

April 13, 2010

Like so many great design schemes, Christian Müller’s idea for Villa Vals walked the line between intuitive and loony. You want to build a house on a dramatic hill, but aren’t allowed to obstruct the landscape. Therefore you build the house in the hill.

So went the Dutch architect’s devilishly deconstructed thinking as he weighed plans for a home in Vals, the tiny Swiss resort town best known for Peter Zumthor’s Therme Vals spa complex. The town wouldn’t approve anything that messed with its star attraction, forcing him to get creative. “Something had to be built that wouldn’t ruin the view,” Müller says. “Something in terms of depth is the logical step.”

Certainly. But aren’t houses built above ground for good reason? A glance at the Villa Vals makes the question obsolete. Cutting straight into the hill’s pitch, Müller’s design opens up a grand front patio without adding a vertical inch. It’s a bunker with a high-rise view. Inside, strategically arranged sightlines and bright furnishings keep it feeling anything but sealed off. “It is not at all claustrophobic,” says Müller.

Like its spa neighbor, the villa—which opened for vacation leases in September, 2009—also mixes local heritage into its highly evolved modernism. The home features an underground passageway connected to a remote entrance in an old barn. Müller requested the relic be saved. “The barn was [supposed] to be demolished. We convinced the former owner to keep it as one of the last witnesses of rural history in the village.”

(Article from ArtBistro.com, Photo by Iwan Baan)

Happy Administrative Professionals Day!

2010-04-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Administrative Professionals Day!

Thank you for the flowers Nicole!!!

Sneak Peek at Eurocucina 2010

2010-04-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

Eurocucina 2010 - A showcase of what's new in kitchen design.
To read the entire article and see more photos, please click here. Check out that floral pattern on the counter in photo 2 - those are set-in induction burners! I want those!

( Photos from http://www.latimes.com/ )

Family accidentally discover church under home

2010-04-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

April 7, 2010 7:12 PM
An inquisitive family have uncovered a bizarre church which has been hidden under their Victorian home in Shropshire for 100 years.

The Farla family made the discovery while investigating what was under a metre-long rectangle metal grid in their hallway.

The hole under the grid was just big enough for son Gareth, 20, to squeeze down and see what was under their living room.

And he couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the dark chapel complete with a large wooden cross on the floor.

But that was nothing compared the the shock the rest of the family got when he followed a staircase in the chapel and came out of a cupboard in the dining room.

There was also large chest which was filled with old newspapers dating back to the early 1900's and old wine and sherry bottles.

Speaking of the find Matthew Lathan, who also managed to squeeze down, said: "We only discovered it because we were drunkenly fooling around and decided to have a look at what was beneath the grid - It was amazing.

"The first thing we came across in the middle of the basement was an old, open chest and in it were old newspapers and bottles dating back to the 1930s.

"There were also some sort of brick seats around the walls which looked like something you might find in a church."

It's thought the room dates back to the 1700s and could have been used as a clandestine Catholic church.

(Article and photos from http://newslite.tv/)

Fireball Light Sours over Madison Last Night at 10 pm!

2010-04-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Huge fireball lights up Midwest skies
April 15, 2010 7:26 AM 15 Comments

The flash of what may have been a meteor over Madison, Wis., about 10 p.m. Wednesday night, as seen from a weather observatory at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. (University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences photo)

What was believed to have been a large meteor streaked over northern Illinois and other Midwestern states Wednesday night.

Reports of meteor sightings about 10 p.m. Wednesday came in to the National Weather Service from wide areas across the Midwest, including Wisconsin and eastern Iowa, said Nathan Marsili, a meteorologist with the weather service's Chicago-area office. News outlets from Missouri to Minnesota and east to Michigan reported sightings, and some reports indicated the light could have come from space junk entering the atmosphere rather than a meteor.

According to the weather service's Milwaukee office, officials there, in La Crosse, Wis., Davenport and Des Moines, Iowa, and in St. Louis and Kansas City, Mo. received "numerous reports of a fireball" about the same time people began contacting Milwaukee-area officials about the flare.

National Weather Service radar in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, showed the object between 6,000 and 12,000 feet, heading from northwest to southeast over Grant and Iowa counties.

(The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences has a series of time lapse photos of the event as seen from Madison; an Iowa sheriff's department captured video of the flash that's been posted on YouTube.)

Although there has been no official determination of what caused the fireball, a meteor shower called the Gamma Virginids began April 4 and is expected to last through April 21, according to the weather service, with peak activity Wednesday and today.

In a statement on its Web site, the National Weather Service office in the Quad Cities said: "Just after 10 pm CDT Wednesday evening April 14th, a fireball or very bright meteor was observed streaking across the sky. The fireball was seen over the northern sky, moving from west to east.

"Well before it reached the horizon, it broke up into smaller pieces and was lost from sight. The fireball was seen across Northern Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Southern Wisconsin. Several reports of a prolonged sonic boom were received from areas north of Highway 20, along with shaking of homes, trees and various other objects including wind chimes. As of late Wednesday evening, it is unknown whether any portion of this meteorite hit the ground."

One resident of Woodstock also contacted the Tribune to say she had seen what looked like a meteor or large shooting star about 10:15 p.m.

It looked like an "enormous ball of light entering [the] atmosphere in the northwestern sky, fading and leaving a trail as it fell towards the horizon," said Christine McMorris, in an e-mail.

-- Liam Ford

(Article and photo from http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/)

Lin Yu Chun Sings "I Will Always Love You" on Taiwan's "Super Star Avenue" TV Show

2010-04-08T14:28:00.000-07:00

Nicole Wins Three Awards!

2010-03-31T12:14:00.000-07:00

Go Keller Williams!!

2010-03-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

Spring Time Bedroom Decorating Tip

2010-03-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

Cozy Country Getaway

Sunny walls and a grassy rug bring the outside in. Landscape photographs and a nature-themed print reinforce the garden vibe. Glass objects―the display on the dresser and the elegant but humble chandelier―lend a conservatory feel and bounce around light. Big floral prints on the bed are modern and fun (tinier prints run the risk of looking granny). Antiquey, feminine touches, such as the chandelier and the curvy bedside tables, afford old-fashioned charm and warmth. Unexpected accents fend off frumpiness. An appliquéd pillow gives the bed a cool focal point, and a bold white lamp adds a modern smile to the room.

To buy: Natura paint in Jasper Yellow 2024-50, $50 a gallon, benjaminmoore.com for stores. Rosemoor standard shams, $75 each; queen duvet, $290; and Leblond Moss throw, $205: designersguild.com for stores. Beaded birdcage chandelier by Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture, $625, shabbychic.com for stores. Swedish doe-leg tables, $549 each, wisteria.com. Color Reform rug (6 by 9 feet), $3,899, ABC Carpet & Home, 212-674-1144. Artichoke lamp, $525, Barbara Cosgrove Lamps, 816-221-3461 for stores. Linen appliquéd pillow, $100, 1891bysferra.com for stores.

(Tip from http://www.realsimple.com/, photo by Thomas Loof)

Midwest Horse Fair 2010

2010-02-25T11:28:00.000-08:00

The Midwest Horse Fair will be celebrating their 31st year and you can see anything and everything relating to the equine industry at this annual event. Shop the many vendors, attend the competitions and special events, including the World Blacksmith competition... you won't be disappointed at the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair!

Midwest Horse Fair 2010

April 16th, 17th, and 18th 2010

Alliant Energy Center

Madison, WI

http://midwesthorsefair.com/

Admission: Daily Pass is $10 in advance or $12 at the gate, and a 3-day pass is $27 in advance or $36 at the gate.

Tickets for the Friday night Rodeo will only be available through ticketmaster . Also available only through tickemaster is the Saturday evening "Jumping Grand Prix" event. Tickets for these events are on sale now!

FREE Home Buyers Fair 2010

2010-02-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars now for the 2010 Home Buyers Fair. The event will be moving back to the Alliant Energy Center and promises to be one of the best yet!

FREE - 2010 Home Buyers Fair

March 20, 2010, 8:30am-3:00pm

Alliant Energy Center, Exhibition Hall
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713

The fair is FREE and open to anyone interested in learning about the home buying process. The fair will offer first time home buyer education classes, an opportunity to win one of two $1,500 down payment grants and there will be housing industry exhibitors on hand to answer any questions that you may have.

• Learn how to own a home for under $1,000/month.
• Earn a Home Buyer Education Certificate in one day.
• Learn how to qualify for the extended Home Buyers Tax Credit
• Win one of two $1,500 grants to put toward your down payment.

For more information about the fair, please contact:
Amanda Wilson, UW Credit Union / 608-232-5000 ext. 2060

Awesome Real Estate Puzzle Coupon!

2010-02-24T14:17:00.000-08:00

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Print and complete this word search puzzle and receive $250 off your Listing Commission when you list your home with Nicole Charles & Associates of Keller Williams Realty!

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Freddie Mac losses mount, warns of foreclosures

2010-02-24T13:13:00.000-08:00

Freddie Mac lost almost $26 billion last year, ominous news for taxpayers who are footing the bill to rescue the mortgage finance company and its sibling Fannie Mae.

Freddie Mac, which has lost a total of almost $80 billion since the housing crisis started in 2007, is bracing for more pain. The McLean, Va.-based company said a record 4 percent of its borrowers are at least three months behind on their payments and facing foreclosure.

Its chief executive, Charles Haldeman, warned Wednesday of a "potential large wave of foreclosures" still to come.

This is a major problem for the federal government, which seized control of Freddie and Fannie in September 2008. The two companies have already siphoned $111 billion from the government to stay afloat. That number is expected to hit $188 billion by fall 2011.

And while Freddie Mac didn't ask for any more bailout money last quarter, the company said it will likely need more financial aid and might never repay it.

"We now have unlimited taxpayer exposure to the bailout of Fannie and Freddie, a bailout nation where the big get bigger, the small get smaller and the taxpayer gets poorer," Rep. Jeb Hensarling, R-Texas, said at a House hearing Wednesday.

Fannie and Freddie dominate the mortgage market, backing about 70 percent of the loans made last year. The two companies purchase mortgages from lenders and package them into securities. Investors are willing to buy the securities because they are effectively guaranteed by the U.S. government. That puts American taxpayers at risk.

But the fragile housing sector is so dependent on the government that officials say they won't have a detailed exit strategy until next year. Underscoring the market's weakness, the Commerce Department said Wednesday that sales of new homes unexpectedly plunged 11 percent from December to January to the lowest level on record.

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner told lawmakers Wednesday that the Obama administration will "make sure we bring about fundamental change in the housing market and get ourselves in a position where the government is playing a less risky, but more constructive role in supporting housing markets in the future."

Separately, Freddie Mac warned there is "significant uncertainty as to whether or when we will emerge" from government control.

For taxpayers, stabilizing Freddie and Fannie Mae has been one of the costliest consequences of the financial meltdown. Freddie Mac has received about $51 billion from Treasury to date, and the Obama administration has pledged to cover unlimited losses through 2012.

Freddie Mac said Wednesday it lost $25.7 billion, or $7.89 a share, for all of 2009. Of those losses, $4.1 billion went to dividends paid to the Treasury Department, which holds a nearly 80 percent stake in the company.

In the final three months of last year, Freddie Mac posted a loss of $7.8 billion, or $2.39 a share. The results, however, were a marked improvement over the fourth quarter 2008 when Freddie lost $23.9 billion, or $7.37 a share.

During the most recent quarter, Freddie suffered $7.1 billion in credit losses and a $3.4 billion write-down in low income tax credit investments. Also Wednesday Fannie Mae said in a regulatory filing that it plans to take a $5 billion charge when it reports its fourth quarter results later this week.

(Article from http://www.madison.com/, by Alan Zibel)

8 Dream Homes for Sale in the Madison, Wisconsin Area

2010-02-22T11:32:00.000-08:00

7326 Black Hawk Road in Middleton, WI
$2.46 Million
MLS #1566722, Courtesy of Bunbury & Assoc.
4 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, 9502 sq ft, 4.3 acres

2295 Spring Rose Rd in Springdale, WI

$2.8 Million

MLS #1572037, Courtesy of Bunbury & Assoc.

6 bedrooms, 5 baths, 8255 sq ft, 20 acres

26740 Cooper Hill Rd in Richland, WI
$2.9 Million
MLS #1566191, Courtesy of Restaino & Assoc.
4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 6200 sq ft, 40 acres

W6500 Hwy B in Burnett, WI
$3.3 Million
MLS#1573293, Courtesy of First Weber
7 bedrooms, 7.5 baths, 6945 sq ft, 272 acres

W6138 Hwy J in Jefferson, WI
$3.5 Million
MLS #1463050, Courtesy of Stark Company
4 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 15,124 sq ft, 19 acres

3387 Timber Lane in Cross Plains, WI

$3.83 Million

MLS #1545264, Courtesy of RE/MAX Preferred

5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 14,126 sq ft, 26 acres

659 Farwell Drive in Maple Bluff, WI

$5.95 Million

MLS #1537504, Courtesy of Restaino & Assoc.

5 bedrooms, 5 baths, 7219 sq ft, 2 acres and 300 ft of Lake Mendota frontage

5750 Hwy Z in Wyoming, WI

$6.3 Million

MLS #1572013, Courtesy of Bunbury & Assoc.

5 bedrooms, 7 baths, 13,600 sq ft, 217 acres

Why You Should Move to Madison, WI: We've Won All These Awards!

2010-01-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Outdoor-Oriented Towns
Yahoo! Real Estate, Fall 2007

Best Farmers' Market in Nation
Eating Well, August 2007

Top Medium-Sized Metro in the Arts
Creative Class Group, May 2007

#1 Walking City
Prevention, April 2007

Top 20 Children's Museums in America
Grand Magazine, March 2007

Best Road Biking Town in America
Outside, August 2006

#1 City for Cycling
Bicycling, March 2006

Most Romantic U.S. City
USAWeekend.com, February 2006

Top 10 Places for Outdoor Activities
Spearling's Best Places, Fall 2005

Top 10 Places to Live the Athletic Life
geezerJock, Fall 2005

2005 Award for Garden Excellence, Olbrich Botanical Gardens
American Association of Botanic Gardens and Arboreta, Summer 2005

Best Game-Day Atmosphere
Sports Illustrated on Campus, September 2005

Top 10 Best Places for Families
Richard Florida and the Creative Class Exchange, May 2008

Top 10 Most Livable Cities
2007 Places Rated Almanac, Spring 2007

Top 30 Best Towns in America
Outside, August 2007

Middleton: Best Place to Live
Money, August 2007

Top 25 Best Cities to Live
Kiplinger's Personal Finance, June 2007

Top 10 Greenest Cities
Yahoo! Real Estate, May 2007

Top 100 Best Places to Live
Money, August 2006

Top 50 Fabulous Gay-Friendly Places to Live
50 Fabulous Gay-Friendly Places to Live, Gregory A. Kompes, Fall 2005

#3 in 100 Healthiest Cities for Pregnancy
BabyFit.com, December 2005

(Information from Madison Magazine, http://www.madisonmagazine.com/)

Madison Area Beer and Wine Tours

2010-01-15T13:39:00.000-08:00

Ale Asylum
3698 Kinsman Blvd.
aleasylum.com
Price: Free
Dates/times: Saturdays, 6 p.m.
Describe it, 10 words or less: Industrial meets chic. Plus, $2 pints after the tour.
Don’t miss: The labels—owner Otto Dilba says their label artwork has to pass the “tattoo test.” “A design won’t go to press unless it’s something … a person [would] want to get tattooed on their body.”
Botham Vineyards
8180 Langberry Rd., Barneveld
bothamvineyards.com
Price: $3
Dates/times: By appointment for groups of fifteen or more. But the tasting room is open March through December (check the website for days and times).
Describe it, 10 words or less:
A friendly, unpretentious mingling of wines, automobilia and gorgeous scenery.
Don’t miss: The Vintage Celebration in August, when vintage automobiles are
showcased at the peak of the growing season.
Capital Brewery
7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton
capital-brewery.com
Price: $3
Dates/times: Fridays, 3:30 p.m., Saturdays 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.
Describe it, 10 words or less: Island Wheat, Wisconsin Amber, Supper Club. Need we say more?
Don’t miss: We all know about the outdoor Bier Garten, open May–September. But drop by during the cooler months for a drink in the lesser-known Bier Stube, a cozy bar that’s open Tuesday–Saturday year-round.
New Glarus Brewing Co.
2400 State Hwy. 69, New Glarus
newglarusbrewing.com
Price: Free self-guided tour.
Dates/times: Mondays–Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Describe it, 10 words or less: You can’t get their brews outside of Wisconsin—literally.
Don’t miss: Three things: the renovated hilltop facility, the tasting room where you can sample brews daily from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Wisconsin Cran-bic, part of brewmaster Dan Carey’s limited-edition “Unplugged” beer series. Carey will roll out a new set of Unplugged beers in 2010, too.
Wollersheim Winery
7876 State Rd. 188, Prairie du Sac.
wollersheim.com
Price: $3.50
Dates/times: Tours start daily at 10:15 a.m. and run until 4:15 p.m.
Describe it, 10 words or less: California vistas in Wisconsin.
Don’t miss: The west coast views are more than mere coincidence at this Midwestern winery: the first owner of the vineyard, Hungarian Count Agoston Haraszthy, left Wisconsin in 1849 for California and is known as the founder of that state’s wine industry.

(List from http://www.madisonmagazine.com/, article titled "Seize the City! 62 things every Madisonian should do in 2010" by Brennan Nardi, Shayna Miller, and Katie Vaughn. Photo from http://blog.wisconsinbrewerytour.com/)

Don't Feel Bad SpongeBob!

2010-01-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

Madison, WI: Home Value Trends

2010-01-12T10:54:00.000-08:00

This chart compares home values over the last several years in the Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton, Mount Horeb, and Waunakee areas.

Send Your Name to Mars!!

2010-01-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

http://marsparticipate.jpl.nasa.gov/msl/participate/sendyourname/

Follow the above link to send your name to

Mars

on a microchip carried by
NASA's Mars Science Laboratory rover!

Video: Cross Plains' St. Francis Football

2010-01-12T09:34:00.000-08:00

It's the little Catholic School that could. It has 200 kids that play football and that's the same as the entire population of the school. The program has such a great reputation kids from all over the area come to play for St. Francis Xavier in Cross Plains. They have a rich tradition of sportsmanship and winning. It's viewed as a feeder program for the perennial powerhouse Middleton High School Football Cardinals. One of their players has even gone pro. Patty Loew reports on the secret to their success.

Click here to watch the video from Wisconsin Public Television.

Click here to volunteer to help support Wisconsin Public Television.

Good News, Sellers!

2010-01-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

Sick of dirty footprint trails around your home after a Showing to potential Buyers? Well now you can leave your Swiffer in the closet, because we've ordered a huge supply of "Disposable Shoe Covers" that will easily stretch around your guest's shoes and keep the mess off your floors!

(Photo by Abs, Modeled by Miss Mahliss)

All Star Rodeo Challenge 2010 in Madison, Wisconsin

2010-01-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

When:
Friday, January 15, 2010 and Saturday, January 16, 2010 from 7:30 pm to 10 pm
Where:
Alliant Energy Center Coliseum
Description:
This rodeo event will surely be a hit with the entire family! There will be bulls, broncs and babes to entertain and amaze. All cowboys in each event will be matched up against the rankest bucking horses and bulls in the nation. And some of the most talented women in the Midwest will compete on some of the fastest horses in the Midwest. Punkintown, one of the funniest rodeo comedians you'll ever see, will introduce you to Diamond and bust some moves like you have never seen before! Admission - $37 (Gold Buckle), $27& $18.50 Kids 1/2 price day of show, or $5.00 in advance (Excludes Gold Buckle Tickets). Tickets on sale now! For more information visit http://www.allstarrodeochallenge.com/.

(event information from www.alliantenergycenter.com)

Isthmus Beer and Cheese Fest 2010 in Madison, Wi

2010-01-06T14:17:00.000-08:00

When:
Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 1 pm to 5 pm
Where:
Alliant Energy Center Exhibition Hall
Description:
Taste Wisconsin's finest beer and cheese at this event while learning about what beers go best with what cheeses, chocolates and everyday foods from the experts! You can dance to great live music from the Cork n' Bottle String Band while mixing and mingling in the beer garden. Tickets are limited and can be purchased in advance for $40 at www.TheDailyPage.com/beercheese. Time of event is from 1pm to 5pm. Tickets also available at the Isthmus office (101 King Street), and at Star Liquor, Fromagination, The Malt House, and Steve's Liquor locations. Save $5.00 on tickets at Star Liquor and Fromagination with qualifying purchase. See store for details. Take Union Cab to and from the festival! Show the driver your ticket for a FREE ride to the festival, and/or $5.00 off your ride home.

(event information from http://www.alliantenergycenter.com/)

Notes from Nicole

2010-01-06T13:38:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Resolutions. I feel like they’re the same every year: spend more time with my kids, lose weight, become more organized. This year they’re very similar, but with a different twist.

Many of you know that I have a prosthetic leg. Many of you also know that I’ve been struggling for years to lose weight. For the past couple of years I’ve been fantasizing about running a marathon. This last summer I started working out on a regular basis and really watching what I’m eating. So far I am down 44 pounds, but still have quite a ways to go. I started running (more like a glacially paced slow jog) and am able to go a couple of miles (still have a long way to go!), but it’s quite an improvement from even just a few months ago. This year I will be running the ½ marathon in the Madison Marathon on Memorial Day weekend. Towards the end of 2010 my goal is to be in good enough shape to run a full marathon. Along with my training and diet/exercise regimen, I have started to journal my progress. I plan to write a book called “The One Legged Fat Girl Runs a Marathon”, have already started a blog (not publically published yet), and started a YouTube series to chronicle the journey.

This time next year I hope to be writing to you in review of the journey from couch to marathon, and telling lots of exciting tales in between. Hmmm, maybe next year’s resolution will include an Ironman?

Happy New Year!

Foreclosures, Short Sales, and REO: Sorting Out the Confusion

2010-01-06T12:58:00.000-08:00

As more families struggle to make mortgage payments on time, we hear more about foreclosures, short sales, and REO homes, but what do these words mean?

It seems that hardly a day goes by that there isn’t a report on the news about the rising foreclosures and the current state of the housing market. While it is unarguably a great time to purchase a home, there seems to be a lot of confusion amongst buyers and sellers on what foreclosures, short sales, and REO’s mean, so here I hope to sort them out.

When you purchase a home that is financed by a lender, you sign a note and mortgage which is your promise to repay that loan. When you stop making payments on that loan, the lender can foreclose, meaning they can take the property back from you. Foreclosures can take a really long time to complete, so it’s usually at least about a year after someone stops making payments on their property until the property goes to Sherriff’s Sale. The bank typically buys it back at the Sherriff’s sale and then the property then becomes owned by the bank. The bank sells the property, known as a REO (Real Estate Owned) listing. The bank typically sells the property as-is and will not make any warranties or representations as to the condition of the property. A buyer is usually able to get a really good price on REO properties as the banks slash the list price in order to get the property to sell quickly and off of the bank’s books.

A short sale is when a lender accepts short of the balance due on the mortgage in exchange for release of title so a person is able to sell their property. This typically happens when the homeowner is already a few months behind on their mortgage, however we are seeing more and more short sales where the owner is still current on their payments but knows they won’t able to be current for much longer. Let’s say you owe $200,000 on your house, the market has declined or you took out mortgages that ate up all the equity in your property and your house is only worth $150,000. With a short sale, after buyer and seller reach an accepted offer, the offer goes to the bank for their approval. So the offer of $150,000 gets submitted to the bank, and the bank approves the $150,000 price, but technically the bank is still owed $50,000. At this point the bank will do one of a few things: 1) Sue the borrower for the deficiency, 2) Reserve the right to sue for deficiency but not actually do it, or 3) Waive the deficiency completely (basically forgiving the difference). Clearly, the third option is the best one for the borrower, and we are seeing more and more banks waive deficiency judgments completely. The beauty of the short sale is that it helps the Seller avoid a foreclosure all together, buyer gets a great deal on the property they are purchasing, and the Seller also is able to avoid the nasty impact that a foreclosure would have.

If a homeowner is late on their mortgage, or is currently struggling with their payments, it’s best that they speak with their Realtor as soon as possible. Realtors like myself, who are CDPE’s (Certified Distressed Property Experts) are extremely familiar with negotiating with banks and the intricacies of the short sale process. It is important that a distressed property owner have the best representation possible. If you, or someone you know is struggling with their monthly housing payments, please don’t wait to have them call. In the world of foreclosures, judgments, and financing, timing is everything!

Madison, Wisconsin: A Trusted and Creative Wedding Planner

2010-01-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

By Miranda Walker of
Marry Us Miranda
(608) 772-7802
mwalker@marryusmiranda.com
www.marryusmiranda.com

There are girls that grow up dreaming of finding their soulmate, falling in love, and planning the perfect wedding day. What does your dream wedding look like? Is it a black tie affair in a childhood church? Are there gorgeous flowers and stunning photographs capturing unforgettable moments with family and friends?

Organization, creativity, and coordination are essential to planning the perfect wedding day. Often times I’ve found that brides who try to plan every detail on their own are stressed, overwhelmed, and anxious that some important detail was forgotten. But with a little bit of help and guidance from an expert, the planning process can be fun. It is my goal to take any anxiety out of the special moments leading up to your important day and to have a successful and memorable event.

In the event planning business, professional connections are priceless. I value the knowledge and ideas I have gained while working alongside a variety of other creative professionals. I have been involved in event planning for six years and hold both a general event planning and wedding planning certificate. No party is too big or small. I have planned and coordinated everything from small parties for five to grand banquets for 500, and I love what I do. No matter the occasion, I always get excited to meet new people and plan the perfect event, incorporating the tastes, personalities, and styles of all those involved.

Your wedding day will be one of the most important and memorable days of your life. It’s a time to let yourself get lost in. While you are happy living in those moments, Marry Us Miranda will have the rest of the details taken care of.

Homes for Sale: Average List Price and Sales Price in Madison, Wisconsin

2009-12-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

Information from SCWMLS (South-Central Wisconsin Multiple Listing Service). Averages calculated from homes sold between September 28, 2009 and December 28, 2009.

Upcoming residential development in Verona, WI

2009-12-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

Here is a rundown of the residential developments that are currently in the City of Verona’s pipeline, in order from “most complete” to “earliest in the process.”

Hawthorne Hills (between Whalen Road and the US 18/151 bypass) and Westridge Estates (between North Nine Mound Road and Northern Lights Road) each still have a limited number of single-family home sites available. They also have some higher-density housing yet to be built.

South of the US 18/151 bypass, Scenic Ridge (west of Locust Drive) and Cathedral Point (east of Locust Drive) are both platted and have completed streets and utilities in their early phases. Each subdivision has home sites currently available, along with a large quantity planned for eventual construction.

Cross Point is located adjacent to Epic, to the west of North Nine Mound Road and along Northern Lights Road. This subdivision is platted and graded but has not yet moved forward on utilities and streets. It is presumed that the developer is holding off for economic reasons.

The northern portion of the former Zingg Farm, the next chunk of land north of Kettle Creek, is in the process of being annexed in to the City of Verona. This is a 66-acre area that appears to be a continuation of the existing neighborhood surrounding Country View Elementary School, proposed to provide 117 additional single-family lots.

The Southwest Neighborhood, a 246 acre area along Hwy 69 to the south of the US 18/151 bypass, is tied up in a lengthy process of being added to our Urban Service Area. Only 79 acres of the area will be developable, and a smaller portion of this will include residential development. It is a particularly sensitive area due to adjacency to both the Badger Mill Creek and Sugar River.

Farthest on the horizon is the Midthun land, which includes the four 40-acre quarter-quarter sections between Stony Ridge Circle and the gravel pits along North Nine Mound road. It also includes one 40-acre quarter-quarter section to the east of Windswept Way. (It does not include two quarter-quarter sections along CTH PD closest to the CTH M intersection.) Out of Midthun’s 200 gross acres, about 134 net acres of residential development is anticipated.

The preliminary concept put forth by Midthun’s developer includes small-scale commercial/retail closest to CTH M and CTH PD, blending through high and mid-density residential development toward the south and west. Finally, the southwest portion includes “estate” lots to help diversify the City’s housing stock with “higher-end” single-family housing. This land will face unique challenges for storm water management due to its “closed kettle” geography.

(Article from Hometown Hawk, a blog by Jeremy Charles)

This Is What Happens When It Snows In Wisconsin

2009-12-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

Jeremy Charles for Alder in City of Verona, District 4

2009-12-01T09:11:00.000-08:00

Excerpt from http://www.jeremycharles.us/:

"My family and I are residents of the Hawthorne Hills neighborhood, near Glacier Edge Elementary school. Since high school, the majority of my hobbies have consisted of community service. In recent years, I have added to my long history of volunteer work by serving the City of Verona. My service to the City has been highly rewarding because I make a direct, positive impact on the community in which I live. Additionally, I have enjoyed the people that I have been serving with. I view the role of Alder as the best and most logical way that I can continue to serve my community."

Article from the Verona Press:

Charles announces candidacy

After three years, Verona might finally have another contested local election.

Plan Commissioner Jeremy Charles has announced he will run for the District 4 aldermanic seat currently held by Ken Harwood. Harwood's term ends in April.

Nomination papers can't be circulated until Dec. 1, but Charles, who has been following Verona politics closely and attending meetings regularly for about three years, was ready to go last week with a news release. The 33-year-old Charles is an employee of Epic and a resident of the Hawthorne Hills neighborhood on the city's southeast side.

"I'm not a politician," Charles said in his release. "My family loves living in Verona, and I sincerely care about promoting the best long-term interests of our City. Becoming an alder is simply the best way that I can serve my community."

After about a year of attending Common Council, Plan Commission and Finance committee meetings regularly, Charles joined the Comprehensive Plan Committee in late 2007. He also has served on the Zoning Board of Appeals and joined the Plan Commission - a common stepping stone to the council - in 2008.

Harwood, a Realtor who joined the Common Council in 2006 and earned another two-year term in 2008, said last week he intended to run again as long as he remains a resident of Verona.

Click Here to Visit Jeremy Charles' Campaign Site

Click Here to Visit
Jeremy Charles'
Facebook Page

Click Here to Visit Jeremy Charles' Blog

Contact Jeremy Charles by email or phone-
E-mail: jeremy@jeremycharles.us
Phone: 608-848-0633

Obama Ups Pressure on Banks to Help Homeowners

2009-12-01T08:52:00.000-08:00

Loan servicers must detail plans to assist borrowers long-term. Laggards could face penalties and sanctions.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Struggling to stem the swelling foreclosure tide, the Obama administration announced new steps Monday to pressure banks to help homeowners long term.

The administration said it will require top loan servicers to report their plan to reach a decision on each loan for which they have all the needed documentation. Also, these servicers must explain to Treasury how they will communicate the decision to borrowers.

Servicers will also be required to report the status of each modification. Those failing to meet their obligations could face penalties and sanctions.

To help borrowers through the process, the administration is providing more information on the documents they need to submit to be considered for a permanent modification. Federal, state and local officials will increase outreach to delinquent homeowners.

The administration's move is its latest attempt to jumpstart its $75 billion loan modification plan, which many fear will fall far short of its goal to help up to 4 million delinquent homeowners.

A growing number of borrowers are complaining that they are stuck in trial modifications. Some 650,000 homeowners are currently in this preliminary phase, but only a small fraction have received permanent assistance.

About 375,000 people should receive long-term relief by year end, said Treasury officials in their first estimate of how many permanent modifications would be made this year. The administration is set to release its first report on the conversions in coming weeks.

Under the president's plan, delinquent borrowers are put into trial modifications for several months to make sure they can handle the new payments and to give them time to submit their financial paperwork.

Borrowers that qualify for long-term modifications can keep making the lower payments for five years. At that point, the interest rate will be set at the rate at the time of the adjustment, currently about 5%.

Loan servicers, however, say they are having trouble getting the necessary documents from borrowers, while homeowners maintain that their financial institutions are repeatedly losing the paperwork.

And once homeowners send in their forms, servicers may find these borrowers don't have enough income or have too much equity or savings to qualify. It also may be more profitable for the bank to foreclose on the home than to modify the mortgage.

(Article from Money.CNN.com)

Slap Chop Remix

2009-11-25T10:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I think it's funny. Watch this, and be prepared to have this song stuck in your head.

"You're gonna be in a great mood all day, cuz you're gonna be slappin your troubles away with the Slap Chop."

Christmas Tree Farms near Madison, Wisconsin

2009-11-24T12:07:00.000-08:00

Summers Christmas Tree Farm
4610 Rocky Dell Rd., Middleton, WI 53562
(608) 831-4414
http://www.summerschristmastreefarm.com/
Pine, Spruce, and Fir Christmas Trees, wreaths, garland, boughs, Christmas gift shop
Map
Paoli Tree Farm
6445 Sun Valley Parkway, Belleville, WI 53508
(608) 424-3936
Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Canaan Fir, Norway Spruce, and White Spruce Christmas Trees, Pre-cut or cut-your-own
Map
Hann's Christmas Farm
848 Tipperary Rd., Oregon, WI 53575
(608) 835-5464
http://www.hannschristmasfarm.com/
Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, and Scotch Pine Christmas Trees, Pre-cut and cut-your-own, Christmas Decorations, Lights, Ornaments, Wreaths, Tree Skirts, Tree Bags, Fresh Holly and Mistletoe
Map
Paul's Tree Farm
16239 W. Beloit Newark Rd., Brodhead, WI
(608) 897-2569
http://www.paulstreefarm.com/
Scotch Pine, White Pine, Norway Pine, White Spruce, Norway Spruce, Blue Spruce, Serbian Spruce, Balsam Fir, Concolor Fir, Canaan Fir, Fraser Fir, Large Spruce up to 14 ft. Christmas Trees, Pre-cut or cut-your-own, Christmas Ornaments, Handmade Scarves, Wreaths, Snacks,
Map
The Tree Farm
8454 Highway 19, Cross Plains, WI
(608) 798-2286
http://www.thetreefarm.net/
White Pines, Scotch Pines, Norway Pines, Spruce, Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir, and Douglas Fir Christmas Trees, Cut-your-own
Map
The Bruce Company Garden Center
2830 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI 53562
(608) 836-7041
http://www.brucecompany.com/
Map
Jensen Trees
7507 Valley View Road, Verona, WI 53593
(608)239-3722
Map
Tree City
5501 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53711
(715) 533-0241
www.tree-city.net/treecity.htm
Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, White Pine, and Scotch Pine Christmas Trees, Pre-cut
Map
CaPaul's Country Place Christmas Tree Farm
5895 River Road, Waunakee, WI 53597
(608) 849-4276
http://www.capaulschristmastreefarm.com/
Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, and Scotch Pine Christmas Trees, Cut-your-own, Apple Cider, Christmas Ornaments, Wreaths, Garland
Map
Ridgetop Trees
8498 County Highway PD, Mount Horeb, WI 53572
(608) 437-8810 or (608) 692-1297
http://www.madison-christmas-trees.com/
White Pine, Scotch Pine, Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, White Spruce, Black Hills Spruce Christmas Trees, Cut-your-own
Map
Christmas Treeland
E10861 Terrytown Road, Baraboo, WI 53913
(608) 356-3307
www.christmastreeland.com/locationcontactinfo.html
Balsam Fir, Spruce, Scotch Pine, Norway Pine, White Pine, and Fraser Fir Christmas Trees, Cut-your-own, Wreaths, Holiday Crafts including Stained Glass Decorations, Garland, Hot Apple Cider
Map
Green Thumb Farms Inc.
S9891 US Hwy 12, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578
1-800-222-2538
http://www.gtfarms.com/
Map
Miller's Christmas Trees
N3763 Otsego Road, Rio, WI 53960
(920)992-3221
http://www.treerex.com/
Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Canaan Fir, Concolor Fir, Scotch Pine, White Pine, Red Pine, Blue Spruce, White Spruce, and Serbian Spruce Christmas Trees, Pre-cut and cut-your-own Trees, Wreaths, Gifts and Crafts, Stocking Stuffers, Hot Apple Cider, Candy Canes
Map
Smokey Hollow Farm
N3056 Smokey Hollow Road, Poynette, WI 53955
(608) 635-2046
http://www.smokeyhollowfarm.com/
Fraser Fir, and Balsam Fir Christmas Trees, Pre-cut, Gift Baskets, Ornaments, Potpourri, Holiday Candles,
Map
Swan Lake Tree Farm
W6892 Breneman Road, Pardeeville, WI 53954
(608) 429-3176
www.gorsetr.com/Swan_lake/Swan_lake.html
Colorado Blue Spruce and White Spruce Christmas Trees, Pre-cut or cut-your own trees
Map
The Paint Farm
W6958 King Road, Poynette, WI 53955
(608) 635-8037
Fraser Fir Christmas Trees, Cut-your-own trees, Wreaths, Mistletoe, Specialty Shaped Wreaths, Garland, Tree Stands, and Tree Bags
Map
Winterberry Christmas Trees
N8220 Smith Road, Brooklyn, WI 53521
(608) 455-2040
Pre-cut and cut-your-own Christmas Trees, Wreaths, Boughs
Map

8 Best Neighborhoods in Madison, WI!

2009-11-13T10:51:00.000-08:00

Madison Magazine is awesome. I found this article in the August 2009 issue and had to share it. For more Madison news visit http://www.madisonmagazine.com/.

Eight Great Neighborhoods

By Neil Heinen, Brennan Nardi, Shayna Miller, and Katie Vaughn

Home is where the heart is, as the saying goes. And you could definitely fall for these eight beautiful, friendly, charming, historic, quirky – and, yes, great – Madison ‘hoods.

Williamson-Marquette
Year Established: 1857 – oldest home in the neighborhood

Icons & Landmarks: Yahara River bridges, Marquette and O’Keeffe schools, Machinery Row, Orton Park. Brick wall advertisements: Gardner’s Purity Bread, King Midas Flour, Madison Candy Company. Festivals: Waterfront, La Fete de Marquette, Orton Park, Willy Street. Retail: The Kitchen Gallery, Rick’s Olde Gold, MadCat. Restaurants: Eldorado Grill, Weary Traveler, Jolly Bob’s, Lao Laan-Xang, Willy Street Co-Op.

Why It’s So Special: Known affectionately as “Wil-Mar,” the Williamson-Marquette neighborhood is a “forever ‘60s” kind of place. With one sandal-clad foot firmly in the past and the other in the present, Wil-Mar has established itself as more than a crunchy ‘hood. Whether you’re a young, hip urbanite or an old hippie, festivals invite everyone to celebrate, and residents depend on them to support the community. While we all love Wil-Mar for its eccentricities worn as badges of honor, businesses you won’t find anywhere else – Hempen Goods, Grampa’s Gun Shop, A Woman’s Touch, and Ford’s Gym – are weathering a shaky economy, proving that funky or not Wil-Mar marches to a healthy, here-to-stay beat. –SM
Westmorland
Year Established: 1916 – the first subdivision plat filed

Icons & Landmarks: Beatty & Strang International Style House, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian House, Glenway Golf Course, J.H. Findorff & Sons’ “Lustron” steel-built homes, Midvale Community Lutheran Church, Midvale School and Community Gardens, Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Sequoya Commons, Stone Pillars at Westmorland Blvd. and Mineral Point Rd., Otto Toepfer House, Village Bar, the annual “Weed Feed” invasive species recipe fest, Westmorland Park.

Why It’s So Special: The new library at Sequoya Commons, a condo and retail complex that woke up the sleepy west-side neighborhood, is the busiest branch in the city, and residents are fully engaged in community, environmental stewardship and revitalization. With a neighborhood association that goes back almost seventy years, there’s a deep-rooted sense of appreciation and belonging that crosses generations whether it’s eco-volunteering, attending social events, enjoying the bike path, donating to the neighborhood health charity fund that raises $12,000 annually, or simply gathering with friends in the park or coffee shop. –BN
University Heights
Year Established: 1893 – annexed by the city of Madison in 1903

Icons & Landmarks: Olin House, home to the UW-Madison chancellor, the Gilmore House by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Bradley House by Louis Sillivan, the Elliott House by George Maher, Randall School, First Congregational Church.

Why It’s So Special: Strolling through this neighborhood is literally a walk through Madison’s architectural heritage. Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, George Maher, Frank Riley, Alvan Small, and others made their mark here, popularizing the Prairie style and also furthering the Queen Anne, Georgian revival, Tudor and International traditions. And look no further than the street signs – marking roads such as Van Hise and Bascom – for proof that the neighborhood developed in tandem with UW-Madison in the early twentieth century. –KV
Dudgeon-Monroe
Year Established: How about 1909 when Madison’s first gasoline filling station was built at Spooner and Monroe streets? The Dudgeon-Monroe neighborhood Association was established in 1973.

Icons & Landmarks: Budd’s Auto Repair, Edgewood College (and the Pleasure Drive that runs behind it), the Southwest Bike/Pedestrian Path (or Bicycle Beltline to the locals), the “mini-arboretum,” Blessed Sacrament, Temple Beth El and the Friends House, David Maraniss, the real Arboretum, Mallatt’s and Neuhauser’s pharmacies, Michael’s Frozen Custard and the Laurel, Orange Tree Imports, and Parman’s.

Why It’s So Special: Are you kidding? Frozen custard, trustworthy car care, walkable, bikeable, pretty, practical, and politically active with a football stadium on one end and the home of the Madison Opera on the other. You’re surrounded by Vilas, Nakoma, and a cemetery with your own golf course. (Okay, you share the golf course.) You’ve got a good mix of businesses, outdoor recreation, restaurants, coffee shops, property tax bills and little red flags to help you get across Monroe Street. Life is good in Dudgeon –Monroe. –NH
First Settlement

Year Established: 1837 – Madison’s first residential settlement

Icons & Landmarks: The Progressive magazine, the Isthmus newspaper, Essen Haus, Lake Monona, the State Capitol building, Café Continental, the Great Dane Pub and Brewing Co. (formerly the Fess Hotel), the Majestic Theatre, Marina condo building.

Why It’s So Special: Whether it’s at the top of the Marina condos, a sidewalk table at Café Continental, or even the Capitol rotunda, the First Settlement ‘hood has some of the most amazing views in the city – all different, all special. Cosmopolitan in some parts and residential in others, this downtown neighborhood has one of the most urban slices of the city within its confines. Walking down King Street, it’s a bustling cityscape with high-end men’s shop Context, live band venue the Majestic Theatre, stellar sushi place Muramoto, cheeky gay sports bar Woof’s, and chic cocktail haven Opus. Walk a block or two east and find peaceful, tree-lined residential streets with lake views and a beautiful bike path thrown in. –SM
Tenny-Lapham
Year Established: 1850 – the year the first building was constructed in the area

Icons & Landmarks: Annual Art Walk, Avenue Bar, Christ Presbyterian Church, 1909 Prairie-style City Market converted into apartments, East Johnson business district, Gate of Heaven public meeting house, James Madison Park, Lapham School and Community Gardens, Reynolds Park, Tenny Park and Locks, Tour de Coops, Yahara River Parkway.

Why It’s So Special: From mansions on Lake Mendota to two- and three-story flats along the busy Johnson and Gorham thoroughfares, you’ll find historic and contemporary housing stock of all kinds and people of all ages living in this close-knit community that organized its first annual neighborhood festival this summer. Residents are also raising $1.6 million for a beautiful new Tenny Park Shelter that hopes to open in time for the 2010 ice-skating season. –BN
Vilas
Year Estabilished: 1889 and 1896 – annexed by the city of Madison in 1903

Icons & Landmarks: Vilas Park, Henry Vilas Zoo, Bear Mound Park (also known as Vilas Circle), Lake Wingra, Edgewood College and Monroe Street lie along the neighborhood’s borders

Why It’s So Special: What kid wouldn’t want to grow up amid forests, houses painted in a rainbow of colors, a lake, parks, and a zoo? Indeed, Vilas has been a family-friendly neighborhood since developing as one of the city’s original “suburbs” as the electric streetcar line extended out from the isthmus at the turn of the century. Nestled in between the Edgewood and UW campuses, the neighborhood often finds students commuting by food or bike through the tree-lined streets. But an even more common sight is residents walking dogs, pushing strollers, or toting kids past tidy bungalows and lovingly tended gardens to Vilas Park or the adjacent zoo. –KV
Schenk-Atwood
Year Established: 1999 – Give or take a hundred years. The Schenk-Atwood-Starkweather-Yahara Neighborhood Association was established ten years ago. Fred Schenk opened his general store at the intersection of Atwood and Winnebago about ninety years before that.

Icons & Landmarks: Becky Steinhoff and the Goodman Atwood Community Center, Olbrich Botanical Gardens, The Harmony Bar, community gardens, Absolutely Art, United Way of Dane county headquarters, public murals and sculptures, Circle Park, the bike path, the Starkweather Solstice Celebration, Studio Paran, Bad Dog Frida, the Barrymore Theatre.

Why It’s So Special: When a young woman sustained a serious injury that restricted her mobility, her neighbors, including some she barely knew, simply stepped up and built a ramp to her home. This is a special place, aptly described in the neighborhood association brochure as a “diverse, friendly, and human scale village.” Schenk-Atwood has a chic urban hipness with a friendly, inviting warmth, punctuated by gardens, little parks, and one well-known river. And the mix works because people care, plain and simple. -NH

Real Estate Humor

2009-11-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

Ha!

Where to Buy Fresh Turkeys in Madison, Wisconsin

2009-11-10T12:06:00.000-08:00

Are you having friends or family over for a big Thanksgiving feast? If so, bake your loved ones a FRESH, NEVER FROZEN turkey this Thanksgiving!

Here is a quick list of grocers in the Madison Area that have fresh turkeys. But call ahead now! Many of these stores require you to reserve a fresh turkey ahead of time!

Jenifer Street Market
2038 Jenifer St.
Madison, WI 53704
(608) 244-6646
Miller & Sons Super Market
210 S. Main St.
Verona, WI 53593
(608) 845-6478
Main Street Market
1050 Main St.
Stoughton, WI 53589
(608) 873-8944
Regent Street Market
2136 Regent St.
Madison, WI 53726
Sentry Supermarket
726 N. Midvale Blvd.
Madison, WI 53705
(608) 236-2030
Willy Street Co-Op
1221 Williamson St.
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 251-6776
Stoddards Market
205 E. Cottage Grove Rd.
Cottage Grove, WI 53527
(608) 839-4228

(Information from http://www.bellandevans.com/)

It's That Time of Year Again: Winter Parking Rules in Madison, Wisconsin

2009-11-10T10:56:00.000-08:00

This morning I got in my car and noticed a folded piece of paper under my windshield wiper. I was in a bit of a rush, like every morning, so I pulled into traffic and rolled down my window. I turned my windshield wipers on and, steering with my right hand, stuck my left arm out the window and reached for the dirty piece of paper as it went back and forth under the wipers. You have to time these things right, you know. I got it on the second wiper wipe, and I think only one lady saw me flailing out the window. Not bad.

So anyway, the piece of paper had some pretty relevant information on it. Do you ever park on the street overnight in Madison like I do? As of November 15th, you and I will have to pay attention to which side we park on.

The Rules:

Vehicles must be parked on the even house numbered side of the street from 1am until 7am on even numbered days, and on the odd house numbered side of the street from 1am until 7am on odd numbered days.

Madison's alternate side parking rules are in effect from November 15th through March 15th. The rules are in effect for most of Madison seven days a week regardless of weather conditions.

A Snow Emergency will be declared whenever it becomes necessary to plow streets. During a Snow Emergency, you may park on the designated alternate side as usual, but off-street parking would be best. If you're downtown during a Snow Emergency, you can park for free in the cashiered sections of city-owned parking ramps from 9pm to 7am. A Snow Emergency will remain in effect for a minimum of 48 hours to give crews an opportunity to clear both sides of the streets.

You can get a text whenever a Snow Emergency is declared by signing up at my.cityofmadison.com. However, you know you'll mess this up at least once:

The Fines:

In the Alternate Side Parking Zone, the parking violation will remain at $20 unless there is a Declared Snow Emergency in which case the parking violation will be increased to $60.

If you get towed during a Snow Emergency (it's happened to the best of us), you'll get a $60 alternate side parking violation ticket, plus a $50 towing fee.

So....Happy Holidays!

If you want to know more, go to www.cityofmadison.com/winter

Barack Obama Speaks at Wright Middle School in Madison, WI

2009-11-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama visited Wright Middle School in Madison last week, and spoke to students about the importance of Education.

Five reasons to Buy or Sell a Home with Nicole Charles & Associates

2009-11-09T13:37:00.000-08:00

Five reasons to work with Nicole Charles & Associates of Keller Williams Realty:

We save you money! On average, our Sellers net about 3.5% more with us than when working with other agents, and our Buyers save roughly 5% more than when working with other agents.
Our listings sell in about one third of the time than the average listing in the area!
Nicole’s expert negotiation skills ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible with your home sale or purchase.
Our team is dedicated to excellent customer service and to making sure that you know exactly what’s going on and what is to come at all points within your transaction.
Nicole’s strong mortgage background is a huge asset in today’s changing market. Helping Buyers and Sellers understand what contingencies a lender will and will not allow can really make all the difference in getting to a successful closing!

Nicole tells how she became the Rookie of the Year

2009-11-06T13:52:00.000-08:00

Nicole Charles - 2008 Keller Williams Rookie of the Yea produced by Brian Ingle on WellcomeMat

Congress Extends and Expands First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit!

2009-11-06T08:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

I'm excited to be able to tell you that Congress has passed an extension of the $8000 first time buyer tax credit. Additionally, there is also an added provision for a $6500 tax credit available to current home owners who make a move right now! This is exciting news!

The new tax credit is available to homeowners who have resided in their primary residence for at least 5 years. There is no requirement in regards to 'buying up', so this credit is an advantage to everyone, even those who are considering downsizing!

This extension/revision is great news for both Buyers and Sellers alike. Buyers - you now have time to find that house if you haven't already done so. Seller's - you now have an added incentive to make a move in the current market. Money is cheap, prices are low, and it's a FANTASTIC time to make a move!

Please feel free to pass this information on to anyone who you think may find it useful. Of course, I'd love to chat with anyone you know who has considered making a move but hasn't been able to do so yet. Your referrals alre always greatly appreciated!

Let me know if you have any questions. Make it a great day!

Nicole
nicolecharles@kw.com
(608) 513-0021

The following information about the tax credit extension is from the National Association of Realtors.

Homebuyer Tax Credit FAQs:

Q: Existing homeowner credit: Must the new house cost more than the old house?
A: No. Thus, for example, individuals who move from a high cost area to a lower cost area who meet all eligibility requirements will qualify for the $6500 credit.

Q: I am an existing homeowner. On October 25, 2009, I signed a contract to purchase a new home. I have lived in my current home for more than 5 consecutive years and am within the new income limits. I will go to settlement on November 20. If President Obama has signed the bill by the time I go to settlement, will I qualify for the new $6500 tax credit?
A: Yes. The existing homeowner credit goes into effect for purchases after the date of enactment (when the bill is signed). There is no reference to the date of contract for the new credit. The provision looks solely to the date of purchase, which is generally the date of settlement.

Q: I am a firsttime homebuyer but was not within the prior income limits at the time I entered into my contract to purchase on October 30, 2009. I will be covered, however, by the new income limits. If the new rules have been signed into law by the time I go to settlement, will I be eligible for a credit?
A: Yes. The new income limitations go into effect as soon as the President has signed the bill. The income limit and other eligibility rules will look to your status as of the date of purchase, which is the settlement date. So if the new rules have been signed when you go to settlement, you should be eligible for the credit (or a portion of the credit if you're within the phaseout range).

Q: I am an eligible existing homeowner. I have a fair amount of equity in my home. I have found a home with a nonnegotiable price of $825,000. Will I be able to use any of the $6500 tax credit?
A: No. The $800,000 cap on the cost of the purchased home is firm at $800,000. Any amount above $800,000 makes the home ineligible for any portion of the credit. The $800,000 is an absolute ceiling.

Q: I owned my home for 10 years, but sold it two years ago year and have been renting since. If I purchase a home, will I be eligible for the $6500 tax credit if I meet all the other eligibility tests?
A: Yes. Because you lived in the home for more than 5 consecutive years of the previous 8, you will qualify for the $6500 credit. For example, Say John and his wife bought a home in 2000 and lived there until 2008 when he got a divorce. Whether John has been renting or bought in the interim, he WOULD INDEED be eligible for the credit because he owned a home and occupied it as his principal residence for 5 consecutive years out of the last 8 years. The keyword here is "consecutive." As long as he lived in that house for 5 years straight what he did since 3 years doesn't impact eligibility.

Q: I am an eligible firsttime homebuyer. I entered into a contract to purchase on November 1, 2009. Do I have to go to closing before December 1? How does the extension date affect me?
A: You do not have to close before December 1. Once the legislation has been signed, it will be as if the Nov 30 date had never existed. Therefore, so long as the contract settles before April 30 (or July 1, worst case), the purchaser will be eligible for the credit.

The Differences:

Old Tax Credit (Jan 1 - Nov 20, '09) vs.

New Tax Credit (Dec 1 - Apr 30, '10)

First-time Buyer Credit Amount
• Then: $8,000.
• Now: $8,000.

First-time Buyer Definition for Eligibility
• Then: May not have had an interest in a principal residence for 3 years prior to purchase.
• Now: Same.

Current Homeowner Credit Amount
• Then: $0.
• Now: $6,500.

Current Homeowner Definition for Eligibility
• Then: None.
• Now: Must have used the home sold or being sold as a principal residence consecutively for 5 of the previous 8 years.

Termination of Credit
• Then: Purchases after November 30, 2009.
• Now: Purchases after April 30, 2010.

Binding Contract Rule
• Then: None.
• Now: So long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close.

Income Limits
• Then: $75,000 - single, $150,000 - married.
• Now: $125,000 - single, $225,000 - married.

Limitation on Cost of Purchased Home
• Then: None.
• Now: $800,000.

Purchase by a Dependent
• Then: None.
• Now: Ineligible.

Anti-fraud Rule
• Then: None.
• Now: Purchaser must attach documentation of purchase to tax return.

Countdown to Thanksgiving!

2009-11-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Countdown Clockgreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

Fannie Mae to rent out homes instead of foreclosing

2009-11-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

Thousands of borrowers on the verge of foreclosure will soon have the option of renting their homes from Fannie Mae, under a policy announced Thursday.

The government-controlled company, through its new "Deed for Lease" program, will allow borrowers to transfer ownership to Fannie Mae and sign a one-year lease, with month-to-month extensions after that.

The program will "eliminate some of the uncertainty of foreclosure, keeps families and tenants in their homes during a transitional period, and helps to stabilize neighborhoods and communities," Jay Ryan, a Fannie Mae vice president, said in a statement.

But the effort is likely to affect a relatively small number of homeowners. In the first half of the year, Fannie Mae took back about 1,200 properties through this process, known as a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure. That pales in comparison to the 57,000 foreclosed properties the company repossessed in the period.

While neither option is particularly attractive for the homeowner, a deed-in-lieu does less harm to the borrower's credit record.

The rental program is designed to help homeowners who don't qualify for a loan modification under the Obama administration's plan, but still want to remain in their homes. Fannie Mae is not planning to market the homes for sale during the one-year rental period.

Fannie Mae has hired an outside company, which officials declined to identify, to manage the properties.

To qualify, homeowners have to live in the home as their primary residence and prove that they can afford the market rent, which would be determined by the management company. The rent can't be more than 31 percent of their pretax income.

Fannie Mae's sibling company, Freddie Mac, launched a similar effort in March. That policy, however, requires the foreclosure to be complete and only allows month-to-month leases. A Freddie Mac spokesman declined to say how many borrowers have participated.

(Article from www.Madison.com, written by ALAN ZIBEL, Originally posted on Thursday, November 5, 2009, 9:00 am)

Hydrogen Economy: Fundamental Changes In Our Future

2009-11-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

Monday, 11/30/2009, 7:30 pm

Distinguished Lecture Series - Jeremy Rifkin

Futurist Jeremy Rifkin is the author of 16 books on the impact of scientific and technological changes on the economy, the work force, society, and the environment. His book, The End of Work, is an international best-seller that is widely credited with helping shape the current global debate on technology displacement, corporate downsizing, and the future of jobs. He is a frequent guest on numerous television programs, including Crossfire, Face the Nation, Nightline, 20/20, Larry King Live, The Today Show, and Good Morning America. Rifkin's latest book, The Hydrogen Economy, is an eye-opening journey into the next great commercial era in history. He envisions the dawn of a new economy powered by hydrogen that will fundamentally change the nature of our market, political and social institutions, just as coal and steam power did at the beginning of the industrial age.

Memorial Union - Wiscosin Union Theater.
Free; see website for free ticket distribution information
www.union.wisc.edu/DLS

Nicole Charles & Associates Real Estate Newsletter

2009-10-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

Nicole Charles & Associates has a new newsletter! In it you will find Madison area housing statistics, information about the first time home buyer tax credit, Nicole Charles' current featured listings, and more! Each month we will have an article submitted by a local expert, and information about upcoming Madison events!

If you would like to receive our free monthly newsletter by mail, email your name and address to abbyolson@kw.com!

Nicole Gives A Speech!

2009-10-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here's Nicole, giving a speech at her BNI (Business Networking International) meeting!

Upcoming Events in Madison, WI!

2009-10-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

October 2009

Oct. 18 - Jungle Jack Hanna, Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts, more info
Oct. 23-25 - Madison Food and Wine Show, Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center, more info
Oct. 27-29 - Wisconsin Truck Expo, Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center, more info
Oct. 30 - Freakfest Halloween Weekend, State Street, more info
Oct. 31 - Arts Ball 2009, benefit for MMoCA, Nakoma Country Club, more info

November 2009

Nov. 8 - Wisconsin Dog Fair, 8am to 9pm, Exhibition Hall, Alliant Energy Center, more info
Nov. 14-15 - Winter Art Festival, 9am to 5pm Saturday, and 10am to 4pm Sunday, Exhibition Hall, Monona Terrace, more info
Nov. 14-15 - Kids Expo, Exhibition Hall, Alliant Energy Center, more info
Nov. 21-22 - One of a Kind Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Show, 10am to 5pm Saturday, and 10am to 4pm Sunday, Exhibition Hall, Alliant Energy Center, more info

December 2009

Dec. 4 - Step Afrika!, Capitol Theater, Overture Center, more info
Dec. 4 - Capitol Tree Lighting Ceremony, Capitol Rotunda
Dec. 8-13 - "Grease" featuring "American Idol" winner Taylor Hicks, Overture Hall, Overture Center
Dec. 18-20 - "The Nutcracker," Overture Hall, Overture Center
Dec. 29 - Mannheim Steamroller, Overture Hall, Overture Center

January 2010

Jan. 23-24 - Flake Out Festival, Wisconsin Dells
Jan. 24-29 - Winter Restaurant Week, various locations in Madison
Jan. 26-31 - "Rent," Overture Hall, Overture Center
Jan. 29-31 - Monster Truck and Thrill Show, Coliseum, Alliant Energy Center

February 2010

Feb. 14 - Peking Acrobats, Overture Hall, Overtune Center
Feb. 26 - Red Stick Ramblers, 8pm, Music Hall

March 2010

Mar. 12-14 - Bike-O-Rama, Arena, Alliant Engery Center
Mar. 14 - St. Patrick's Day Parade, Capitol Square
Mar. 19 - Shidara, Japanese drum company, Capitol Theater, Overture Center

April 2010

Apr. 9 - The American Bluegrass Masters Tour featuring Bobby Osbourne, Capitol Theater, Overture Center
Apr. 15-18 - Wisconsin Film Festival, the annual celebration of cinema, several location in Madison
Apr. 16-18 - Midwest Horse Fair, Alliant Energy Center
Apr. 27 - May 23 - Disney's "The Lion King," Overture Hall, Overture Center
Apr. 29 - Monterey Jazz Festival, featuring Kenny Barron Trio, Regina Carter, Kurt Elling and Russel Malone, Capitol Theater, Overture Center

May 2010

May 28-31 - World's Largest Brat Fest, Willow Island, Alliant Energy Center
May 30 - Madison Marathon, Half-Marathon and Quarter-Marathon

July 2010

Jul. 3 - Rhythm & Booms, music and fireworks display, Warner Park
Jul. 14-18 - Dane County Fair, Alliant Energy Center
Jul. 16-18 - Maxwell Street Days, Downtown Madison

(information from the 2009 Answer Book)

I GOT JELLO'ED LIKE DWIGHT!

2009-10-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

Okay fine, I'm a high C. I like my stuff to be in its place. When we moved to the new office at the beginning of September I had a new spot for everything, and even brought in some decorations to add some color to our desks.

About a month ago one of my perfectly positioned plastic oranges went missing. Could it have been knocked off my desk by a careless passer-by? Was it stuck under a desk or cabinet, waiting for me to rescue it? I looked everywhere, but found no evidence of my immitation citrus. My desk looked so wrong without it! Could it have been stolen?

The first few days without my orange were the hardest. Where could it be? Who was taking care of it? Was it cold? Lonely? As time passed I began to adjust, but I never filled that hole on my desk in case some how, some day my orange came back to me.

When I woke up this morning something seemed different. The sun somehow shone brighter, and my frosted flakes tasted sweeter. I knew something magnificent was about to happen. I arrived at work, approached my desk, and could not believe my eyes.

ORANGE? IS THAT YOU?

I got dwight'ed.

$8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension!!

2009-10-12T15:30:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from the trusted Kiplinger Tax Letter:

"Tax and benefits bills are beginning to move, spurred by Congress' desire to extend expiring breaks and to solve a problem that low inflation has created in 2010 for Social Security and Medicare recipients.

Start with the first time home buyer credit, the $8,000 break that is set to expire Nov. 30.

The credit will be extended for a few months, and lawmakers will clarify that first time purchasers don't have to complete the sale by the expiration date to get the tax credit. They need only sign a contract. The odds are low that Congress will expand the credit to folks who aren't first time home buyers, or increase the credit limit to $15,000."

Stay tuned! We'll hear more about this soon!

iPhone Augmented ID from TAT

2009-10-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

This is so cool. Pretty soon your iPhone will be able to recognize people, even if you don't! By simply pointing your phone at a person with a registered profile, your phone will be able to tell you that person's name, email, telephone number, and any other information that person chooses to share on his profile!

This technology is also being used with the new Yelp iPhone app. For example, by pointing your phone at a restaurant you can see it's name, address, rating, and reviews on Yelp!

This could be HUGE for the real estate industry! Imagine you're driving by a house with a for-sale sign out front. You slow down, open the Augmented Reality app on your iPhone, point your phone at the house, and BAM! Tons of photos and information about the house are right there for you to scroll through!

Why don't I have an iPhone yet?

"Augmented ID is a TAT concept that visualizes the digital identities of people you meet in real life. With a mobile device and face recognition software from Polar Rose, Augmented ID enables you to discover selected information about people around you. All users control their own augmented appearance, by selecting the content and social network links they want show to others. Modifying your augmented ID is easier than fixing your hair in real life and, of course, TAT Cascades will make sure you look great!"

(Video and information from TAT's blog)

Mummy Halloweenies with Mustard Dip!

2009-10-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

These little Mummy treats will be a hit at any Halloween party!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Start to Finish: 40 minutes

44 Servings

1 can (8 oz) flaky dough sheet with no seams

44 cocktail-size smoked link sausages (1 lb package)

1/2 cup creamy Dijon mustard-mayonnaise spread

1 tablespoon dried oregeno leaves

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line two 15x10x1-inch pans with cooking parchment paper.
On work surface, roll dough sheet out to 14x11-inch rectangle. Cut vertically to make two 11x7 inch rectagles. Cut crosswise into total of 44 (7x1/2-inch) strips. Pat sausages dry with paper towels.
Wrap 1 strip of dough around each sausage to look like a littly mummy; press firmly at each end to secure. Place on cookie sheet 2 inches apart for even browning.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix mustard and oregano. Place two small dots of mustard on each sausage for eyes. Serve warm with mustard dip.

(Image and awesome recipe from the Pillsbury Halloween Fun magazine. Visit http://www.pillsbury.com/!)

Best Apple Ever

2009-10-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

Are those apples or basketballs?
Now she's just trying to make the rest of us look bad.

Thanks again Marlys! Biggest/best apples EVER. ;)

Creepy Halloween Lady Finger Pretzel Snacks!

2009-10-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
Makes 4 dozen

Red or green food coloring (optional, for fingers)
24 blanched almonds, halved lengthwise
2 cups warm water (110 degrees), plus 3 quarts, plus 1 tablespoon
1 tablespoon sugar
1 package active dry yeast (1/4 ounce)
Vegetable oil
5 to 6 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface
1 tablespoon coarse salt
2 tablespoons baking soda
1 large egg
Sea salt
Fried rosemary (optional, for toes)

Directions

Place a small amount of food coloring, if using, in a shallow bowl, and, using a paintbrush, color the rounded side of each split almond; set aside to dry.
Pour 2 cups water into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the dough-hook attachment. Add sugar; stir to dissolve. Sprinkle with yeast, and let stand until yeast begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Beat in 1 cup flour into yeast on low speed until combined. Beat in coarse salt; add 3 1/2 cups flour, and beat until combined. Continue beating until dough pulls away from bowl, 1 to 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup flour. Beat 1 minute more. If dough is sticky, add up to 1 cup more flour. Transfer to a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth, 1 minute.
Coat a large bowl with cooking spray. Transfer dough to bowl, turning dough to coat with oil. Cover with plastic wrap; let rest in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Bring 3 quarts water to a boil in a 6-quart straight-sided saucepan over high heat; reduce to a simmer. Add baking soda. Lightly coat two baking sheets with cooking spray. Divide dough into quarters. Work with one quarter at a time, and cover remaining dough with plastic wrap. Divide first quarter into 12 pieces. On a lightly floured work surface, roll each piece back and forth with your palm forming a long finger shape, about 3 to 4 inches. Pinch dough in two places to form knuckles. Or, to make toes, roll each piece so that it is slightly shorter and fatter, about 2 inches. Pinch in 1 place to form the knuckle. When 12 fingers or toes are formed, transfer to simmering water. Poach for 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer fingers to the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough, blanching each set of 12 fingers or toes before making more.
Beat egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush pretzel fingers and toes with the egg wash. Using a sharp knife, lightly score each knuckle about three times. Sprinkle with sea salt and rosemary, if using. Position almond nails, pushing them into dough to attach. Bake until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on wire rack. Fingers and toes are best eaten the same day; or store, covered, up to 2 days at room temperature.

(Photo and Recipe from www.MarthaStewart.com.)

Thanks Marm!

2009-09-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks for bringing in the tomatoes Marlys!

WalkScore: Free, Awesome, and Helpful!

2009-09-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of WalkScore.com? It's a great tool you can use to find out how "walkable" a neighborhood is. For example, by typing in our office's address I found that we have a WalkScore of 80 out of 100, simply because there are so many key businesses within walking distance of our office! The nearest grocery store and hardware store are only a half-mile away, and the nearest drugstore is only a quarter mile away! Think how valuable this could be for those considering moving to a new or unfamiliar area! Go to http://www.walkscore.com/ to try it out!

Easy Recipe for the Whole Family!

2009-09-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Don't know what to make for dinner tonight? Try this awesome recipe we found on Allrecipes.com!

Burrito Pie

SUBMITTED BY: KATHIMC

PREP TIME 30 Min
COOK TIME 30 Min
READY IN 1 Hr

INGREDIENTS
2 pounds ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 (2 ounce) can black olives, sliced
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chili peppers
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
1 (16 ounce) jar taco sauce
2 (16 ounce) cans refried beans
12 (8 inch) flour tortillas
9 ounces shredded Colby cheese

DIRECTIONS
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2.In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the ground beef for 5 minutes. Add the onion and garlic, and saute for 5 more minutes. Drain any excess fat, if desired. Mix in the olives, green chile peppers, tomatoes with green chile peppers, taco sauce and refried beans. Stir mixture thoroughly, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
3.Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 4 quart casserole dish. Cover with a layer of tortillas followed by more meat mixture, then a layer of cheese. Repeat tortilla, meat, cheese pattern until all the tortillas are used, topping off with a layer of meat mixture and cheese.
4.Bake for 20 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until cheese is slightly brown and bubbly.

Owen in the Limelight!

2009-09-25T10:38:00.000-07:00

Distinguished local celebrity Owen Charles was featured on the front page of the highly esteemed Verona Press! Upon seeing the publication Owen observed, "I must be a really famous kid." Nicole added, "I think it's because you're so cute," to which Owen responded, "Well, that helps too."

Also in today's breaking news, somebody's big stinky compost pile is being moved or something.

Open, Spacious Condo For Sale in Madison, WI!

2009-09-24T13:27:00.000-07:00

This cute home is located at 2937 Turbot Dr., Madison, WI. (See it on a map!) For more information or to schedule a private showing of this property contact Nicole directly at (608) 513-0021!

Cute Condo For Sale in Cross Plains, WI!

2009-09-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

This sunny condo is located at 2315 Brewery Rd in Cross Plains, WI. (See it on a map!) For more information or to schedule a private showing of this property contact Nicole directly at (608) 513-0021!

Amazing 1890's Victorian For Sale in Evansville, WI!!

2009-09-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous home is located at 236 W. Main St. in Evansville, WI. (See it on a map!) For more information or to schedule a private showing of this property contact Nicole directly at (608) 513-0021!

Keller Williams Realty Receives Nod as the Highest Ranked in Customer Satisfaction

2009-09-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

J.D. Power and Associates names company highest in customer satisfaction for second year in a row.

AUSTIN, TEXAS (September 2, 2009) —According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM, Keller Williams Realty, Inc., the third largest real estate company in North America, received the highest overall satisfaction ratings from home buyers among the largest full-service real estate firms for the second year in a row. The company also ranked second-highest among home sellers in the study.

“We couldn’t be prouder. This is an achievement our associates have truly earned. It is the face-to-face interaction and the relationships they build daily that has impacted this study and elevated Keller Williams Realty to another level in customer service,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Keller Williams Realty. “Knowing that this study was conducted during the toughest times the market has seen shows that spirit and dedication can make an impact.”

The study was produced by J.D. Power and Associates to measure home buyers’ and sellers’ customer satisfaction. The results of the home-buying experience were determined by three factors including the agent, office and the package of additional services.

“I am absolutely beaming with pride that our agents have been honored in such a fantastic way,” said Mary Tennant, president and COO of Keller Williams Realty. “We are lucky to be in business with such incredible business people, who have shown incredible resolve over the past two years. If there was a time to build their business, it is now.”

About Keller Williams Realty Inc.:
Founded in 1983, Keller Williams Realty Inc. is the third-largest real estate franchise operation in the United States, with 679 offices and 73,000 associates in the United States and Canada. The company, which began franchising in 1990, has an agent-centric culture that emphasizes access to leading-edge education and promotes an economic model that rewards associates as stakeholders and partners. The company also provides specialized agents in luxury homes and commercial real estate properties. For more information, or to search for homes for sale visit Keller Williams Realty online at http://www.kw.com/.

Pumpkin Patches Near Madison, WI!

2009-09-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

Anderson's Pleasant Patch Pumpkins

2313 Koshkonong Rd.

Cottage Grove, WI 53527

They sell: winter squash, pick-your-own pumpkins, pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, straw bales, corn shocks, dried floral arrangements, and fall decorations
They have: a 1 mile hiking trail, a corn maze, tractor pulled hay rides, and a haunted house
They're open: Last weekend of September through Halloween, Saturday and Sunday 11 am to 5 pm.
Contact them: phone - (608) 219-0860, email - andpumpkins@hotmail.com

Appleberry Farm

8079 Maurer Rd.

Cross Plains, WI 53528

They sell: pick-your-own or pre-picked apples, and apple cider
They have: sheep for you to visit, chickens for you to feed, a duck pond to sit by, hayrides, an orchard for you to walk through, and an oak savanna with views of Blue Mounds for you to explore
Contact them: phone - (608) 798-2780, email - fun@theappleberryfarm.com, website - http://www.theappleberryfarm.com/

Carandale Farm

5683 Lincoln Rd.

Oregon, WI 53575

They sell: pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, caramel apples, apple butter, frozen pies, honey, jams and jellies, pears, plums, squash, gourds, dried flowers, pre-picked and pick-your-own tomatoes, raspberries, and strawberries
They're open: until November 1st, 10 am to 6 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays, and noon to 5 pm on Sundays (closed Wednesdays)
Contact them: phone - (608) 835-5871, website - http://www.carandale.com/

Eplegaarden Orchard

2273 Fitchburg Rd.

Fitchburg, WI 53575

They sell: pick-your-own apples, raspberries, and pumpkins
They have: hayrides, animals, and a haunted barn
Contact them: phone - (608) 845-5966, email - forest@eplegaarden.com, website - http://www.eplegaarden.com/

Foster's Fall Harvest
6617 State Road 73
Marshall, WI 53559

They sell: twenty varieties of pumpkins, squash, gourds, ornamental corn, and corn shocks, apples, honey, and crafts
They're open: September through Halloween, evenings 5 pm to 7 pm, weekends 9 am to 7 pm
Contact them: phone - (608) 655-4275

Green's Orchard
2722 Williams Dr.

Stoughton, WI 53589

They sell: pick-your-own pumpkins, pick-your-own and pre-picked apples, squash, honey, sweet corn, Indian corn, and tomatoes
They're open: 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays
Contact them: phone - (608) 873-4096, email - apples247@yahoo.com

Hermanson Pumpkin Patch

127 Hwy N

Edgerton, WI 53534

They sell: pick-your-own and pre-picked pumpkins, pre-picked produce, birdhouse gourds, decorative gourds, large atlantic giant pumpkins, straw bales, corn shocks, minature corn, Indian corn
They have: a petting zoo that includes llamas, donkeys, goats, pigs, calves, fish, and a large st. bernhard dog
They're open: September and October, everyday from 9 am to 6 pm
Contact them: phone - (608) 884 - 8759, email - vicki.ferrell@edgerton.k12.wi.us

Schuster's Playtime Farm
1326 US Highway 12 and 18

Deerfield, WI 53531

They sell: 15 varieties of pick-your-own and pre-picked pumpkins, pre-picked produce, decorative corn, fall basket arrangements, fall decorative ceramics, corn stalks, straw bales, decorative gourds of all sizes, squash potpourri
They have: a corn maze, a haunted corn maze, a straw or haybale maze, a corn cannon, a gift shop, a snacks and refreshments stand, a picnic area, tractor-pulled hay ride, wagon rides, and a petting zoo
They're open: September and October, 9 am to 7 pm Mondays through Saturdays, and 10 am to 6 pm Sundays
Contact them: phone - (608) 764-8488, email - playtime@chorus.net, website - http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com/

The Tree Farm

454 St Rd 19

Cross Plains, WI 53528

They sell: asparagus, beans, beets, broccoli, carrots, Christmas trees, sweet corn, cucumbers, eggplant, flowers, peas, peppers, pumpkins, rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, tomatoes
They're open: September and October, 9 am to noon and 4 pm to dusk on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays
Contact them: phone - (608) 798-2286, email - treefarm@midplains.net

Willow Glen Farm

645 County Highway PB

Belleville, WI 53508

They sell: a great selection of pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, winter squash, Indian corn, broom corn, honey, ornamentals, specialty squash, gourds, and miniature Indian corn
Contact them: phone - (608) 845-6016

(Photo from http://www.waltcurleeart.com/, information from http://www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org/)

Back to School Backpack Craft Idea

2009-09-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Apples aren't just for eating. The cut side of an apple half, dipped in candy-colored paint, can be stamped onto otherwise ordinary canvas tote bags and backpacks.

Apple-Print Bag How-To
1. Cut an apple in half from top to bottom. Make sure the cut is smooth and flat. Use a paintbrush to apply the paint evenly over the cut side of the apple.

2. With the apple half, cut side down, stamp the surface of the object you want to decorate. The more times you stamp, the less vivid the print will be, so reapply paint, or use the other half.

3. Use additional apple halves to print with different colors, if desired. To draw stems and leaves, use black or green markers (or paint).

(Photo and craft idea from http://www.marthastewart.com/)

2009 Ironman in Madison, WI!

2009-09-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

2009 Ironman in Madison, Wi

September 13, 2009

begins 7:00 am at Law Park

2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, 26.2 mile run

Why Madison? Madison has consistently been ranked as among one of the finest small cities in the United States. Madison is not only one of the fittest cities in America, but supports one of the top Universities in the Midwest in the University of Wisconsin. More than 40,000 attend UW, and with the tentative courses going through and around the campus (as well as a population base of 200,000+), Ironman Wisconsin could feature the most spectators of any Ironman event in the world.

Spectators can watch the first event, swimming, from the Monona Terrace. Then, spectators can take a bus from the Alliant Energy Center to the city of Verona to watch athletes pass by twice. Since the running portion of the event takes place on the streets of downtown Madison, spectators may line the streets of the course to view the athletes.

For more information, pictures, and a list of this years athletes, visit http://www.ironmanwisconsin.com/.

Daily Show: Even Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner Can't Sell His House

2009-08-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Home Crisis Investigation

http://www.thedailyshow.com/

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Healthcare Protests

Hilarious.

Buyers Are Gaining Leverage

2009-08-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

Dan Miller - Keller Williams Realty 8/19/2009 7:42 am Dane County Real Estate

Two months ago we looked at the percent of Dane County MLS listings under contract (i.e. the percent of listings with an accepted offer).

On June 20th, 22% of all single family home listings had an accepted offer. In other words for every one single family home listing under contract, another 3.5 listings were working for an accepted offer. As of August 18th, the percent of homes under contract dipped to 17%. For every home under contract, another 5 listings were working for an accepted offer. You'll see from the chart below the percent of homes under contract has dipped for most price categories. Homes priced under $225,000 tend to have a greater percentage of listings under contract.

The numbers demonstrate the seasonality of the market and make it clear buyers are gaining leverage as we enter the fall season. We're seeing a lot of price reductions from sellers right now. In many cases, those sellers would have been wise to lower their prices earlier this spring or summer, when more buyers were out in the market.

(Article and graph from http://www.madison.com/)

Madison WI's Taste of Madison Event!

2009-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

The Taste of Madison

Saturday, September 5th: 2pm to 9pm
and
Sunday, September 6th: 11am to 7pm

60+ restaurants and caterers
3 stages with 5 music formats
Huge TV screen showing the Badger game Saturday night
20 beverage stands, including soda, water, beer, wine, and milk
Thousands of dollars raised for United Cerebral Palsy
More than 200 menu items to sample
Tons of live musical performances - all FREE!

Held each year over Labor Day weekend, the event showcases more than 65 local restaurants, 20 beverage stands and four entertainment stages. The participating restaurants sell a vast variety of both unique and traditional dishes to the estimated 150,000 attendees over the two-day period. And every food item is reasonably priced from $1 to $4. Best of all, admission to the event – which includes hours and hours of live entertainment – is free and open to the public.

Taste of Madison - www.tasteofmadison.com
For an alphabetical list of participating restaurants, their menus, and their prices - click here!
To view a PDF map of the restaurants on the square - click here!
For a line-up of bands performing on each of the five stages - click here!
To buy Taste of Madison t-shirts - click here!

The Office Season Six Premiere!

2009-08-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars with a beet like we did because The Office Season Six Premiere is coming soon!!!

September 17th, 9/8c

(Recap on Season 5 - watch full episodes on nbc.com here!)

Kid's Room Home Staging Tip: Tutu Table

2009-08-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

A whimsical way to―literally―dress up a nightstand: Wrap a tutu around the edge of a kitchen stool and secure it with double-sided tape.

(Tip and photo from www.realsimple.com)

Middleton Good Neighbor Festival 2009

2009-08-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

Middleton's Good Neighbor Festival!

When: August 28th through 30th, 2009

Where: Middleton's Fireman's Park

More Info: http://www.goodneighborfestival.com/

Parade

Sunday - 12:00 pm, University Avenue

Carnival

Friday - 5:00 pm to 12:00 am
Saturday - 11:00 am to 12:00 am
Sunday - 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Unlimited-ride Wrist Bands: Saturday - 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

5k Run/Walk

Saturday - 9:00 am
On-site registration - 8:00 am at Capital Brewery

Kids Games

Mascot Challenge: Saturday - 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sack Race, Wheelbarrow Race, Fireman Race, Balloon Toss, Etc: Saturday - 11:30 am

Craft Fair

Saturday & Sunday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Bands & Entertainment

Friday - 6:00 pm: David Landau, TDS Tent
Friday - 6:30 pm: The Midwesterners, VFW Tent
Friday - 7:30 pm: Apparently Nothing, TDS Tent
Friday - 9:00 pm: Little Vito and the Torpedoes, VFW Tent
Friday - 9:45 pm: John Masino Band, TDS Tent
Saturday - 10:00 am: Kiddie Dog Show, TDS Tent
Saturday - 11:30 am: UB The Band, TDS Tent
Saturday - 2:30 pm: Westport Square Dancers, VFW Tent
Saturday - 3:00 pm: Social Misfits, TDS Tent
Saturday - 4:45 pm: Tony Rocker and the Comeback Special, VFW Tent
Saturday - 5:00 pm: Bluetrain, TDS Tent
Saturday - 8:00 pm: Gomers Good Neighbor Idol, TDS Tent
Saturday - 9:00 pm: Mid-life Crisis, VFW Tent
Sunday - 2:00 pm: Human Nature, TDS Tent
Sunday - 2:00 pm: Fuzzy Side Up, VFW Tent
Sunday - 3:45 pm: American English, VFW Tent
Sunday - 4:30 pm: DIG, TDS Tent
Sunday - 6:3o pm: Raffle Drawing, TDS Tent

Madison On the List of Best Places to Buy a Home!

2009-08-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

The struggling housing market has sellers and buyers searching for the best regions to get a great deal.

Nationwide, home values are down 12 percent, compared with the same time a year ago, according to real estate website Zillow.com.

Zillow, which tracks virtually every house sale in the nation, has ranked the top five best locations for home buyers and sellers.

The results may surprise you, because the best places to buy a home are not necessarily where the houses cost the least.

"For people who are financially qualified, it never has been a better time in nearly 40 years," said Lawrence Yun, at the National Association of Realtors. "I think this is good long-term investment opportunity to get into the market now."

When you go to buy a house, low-priced markets not the only factor you should consider.

"The No. 1 factor for a market holding its value over time has to do with what types of jobs are fueling the local economy," said Amy Bohuntinsky, of Zillow.com

Look for communities with a strong job market and stable housing values. Some common threads: cities with military bases, state capitals and college towns all fare well because they are more "recession proof," according to Zillow. A strong tourism industry helps too.

No matter where you buy, statistics show you should stay at least seven years if you hope to turn a profit on your house.

"We're not out of the woods yet as far as a housing market that's declining," Bohuntinsky said. "But if you're thinking about living in the home for seven years or more, you're likely to ride this out and that's really important for buyers to think about when figuring out where to live."

#1: Virginia Beach, Va.

#2: Albany, NY

#3: San Diego, Calif.

#4: Austin, Texas

#5: Madison, Wisconsin
The college town of Madison, Wisc., rounds out the top five cities best for buyers. It's consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in America. An added bonus: Home values in Madison are flat from five years ago, and they are paying 3 percent less than listing price. "If we're looking in an area where home values are flat year over year, that's great. It means you haven't lost money in the value of your home over the past year and that's performing better than most areas of the country," Bohuntinsky said.

(Article and image from http://www.abcnews.com/)

Ten Funny Free Things on Craigslist

2009-08-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you can find the strangest things in the "Free" section on Craigslist. Just in case anyone actually wants any of these goodies, or if you just want to laugh at them, here's an update on some of the best free stuff RIGHT NOW on Madison's Craigslist. Come'n git it!

1. Old, dirty, bent up Mini-Blinds from 1982.

2. All this throne needs is a new seat.

3. Buncha big sticks in a box.

4. He found this hunk of glass laying around. Bonus: He'll deliver it if you give him gas money.

5. Christmas light holder. A must-have. Hurry, there are currently only 4 in stock.

6. Even the background of this picture is disgusting. Come get your free mens leotard because, as the seller points out, "there's a real, non-synthetic chamois in the crotch."

7. Who wouldn't want to sit on this? Well worth it for the quick drive out to Marshall!

8. "It's not a rocket ship, it's used carpet padding."

9. This pile of junk even includes a walking stick!

10. "Have some tires for free. All different ones. Done need to come to my door. They are in my backyard just take."

Save Big with Coupons

2009-08-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

Watch as our neighbor, coupon-clipping Angie Hoag from Milton, shows us how she saves so much on her grocery bills. She saves more than $8,000 a year with her coupons, and averages 70% off every time she hits the grocery store!

Check out her blog and leave her a comment! http://frugalmommie.blogspot.com/

(Video from http://www.madison.com/)