2021 MARKET REVIEW: TOTAL # OF SALES AND AVERAGE SALES PRICE

2021 market review of Waukesha County Real Estate Graphic

As we head into the new year, let’s take a moment to reflect on last year’s real estate market with a market review. To put it simply, the real estate market of 2021 was wild. The demand of 2020 carried into 2021, creating massive amounts of competition that kept prices high and overall inventory low. This environment left buyers scrambling to see houses the same day they hit the market, or loose out, and sellers with a wide variety of offers to choose from.

The following graphics will seek to showcase the market of Waukesha County in 2021, as well as 2019 & 2020, in two main areas: the total number of sales and median sales price in the county. If you’d like to see data from additional years or the real estate market of 2021 in Wisconsin as a whole, click here.

TOTAL NUMBER OF SALES: WAUKESHA COUNTY

2021

2021 market review: total # of homes sold graph

The 2021 market saw a high amount of home sales. The lull at the beginning of the year was due to the lack of supply available. However, as we moved into the summer months, more supply became available before the subsequent seasonal fall beginning in September. This seasonal fall is not altogether surprising, as the local real estate market has a documented history of slowing down as the weather turns.

Stats
Low: February (253)
High: August (696)
Total # of Sales in Waukesha County (2021): 6,311

THREE-YEAR COMPARISON

2021 market review: three year comparison on total # of sales graph

The following graph is created when comparing the last three years of sales in Waukesha County. Interestingly, the lowest number of sales in a month was in 2021 (February). Although, this wasn’t for lack of buyers, but rather a lack of inventory. As can be observed here, the uncertainty at the beginning of 2020 led to a dip in total sales which reversed as people became more comfortable; then, the market exploded, with the highest total number of sales recorded in August of 2020. If we compare 2019 to 2021, we can see more similarities in their overall pattern, showing that perhaps the market is beginning to stabilize a bit more when compared to the frenzy of 2020. However, experts theorize that the 2022 market will maintain a heightened level of competition due to continued low inventory.

You can read more about it here.

Stats

Low: February 2021 (253)
High: August 2020 (753)
Total # of Sales (2019): 6,073
                                (2020): 6,496
                                (2021): 6,311

 

MEDIAN SALES PRICE: WAUKESHA COUNTY

2021

2021 market review of Waukesha County: Median Sales Price

2021 was a big year in terms of sales price, with the highest ever median sales prices recorded in Waukesha County. This was primarily due to the low inventory of homes, resulting in buyers having to pay a premium to secure the home.

Stats
Low: $349,950 (October)
High
: $397,000 (August)
Average Median Sales Price (2021): $365,817

THREE-YEAR COMPARISON

Three Year Comparison of Media Sales Price [Bar Graph]Three Year Comparison of Median Sales Price

When comparing the three recent years, it is clear to see the rising median sales prices over time, in both graphs. The increase has been gradual, increasing $28,660 from 2019 to 2020 and subsequent growth of $32,404 from 2020 to 2021. The jump is most noticeable when comparing 2019 to 2021, with the increasing average sales price of $61,064.

Stats
Low: $275,000 (February 2019)
High
: $397,000 (August 2021)
Average Median Sales Price (2019): $304,753
                                                         (2020): $333,413
                                                          (2021): $365,817

Overall, the 2021 real estate market had lower sales than 2020 (due to the low inventory) but higher average median sales prices. As a result, it was a seller’s market, with buyers battling to obtain the right to homeownership. Here is what our broker had to say about his experience with the 2021 real estate market:

“The 2021 real estate market was a breakout year in the Lake Country Area! While the Fed kept interest rates low in these pandemic times, demand went through the roof, but supply stayed low, which led to increasing prices and short duration of time on the market.” 

That’s been our 2021 market review, be sure to check back next year for our thoughts on 2022!

 

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a blue shed in a pastoral environment
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BUYERS BEWARE: RECORDING IS HAPPENING HERE

camera face zooming in, recording
Digital Work Done by TheDigitalArtist

Ever tour a home during your real estate journey, and get a feeling someone’s watching? Well, they could have been. According to a survey done by LendingTree, 1 in 3 home sellers admit to secretly recording home buyers during showings. The survey polled just over 2,000 consumers, 347 of whom were sellers. The top reason for using cameras (49%) was to understand what buyers liked and disliked about the home. The remaining reasons were: 

– Gather any information that would be useful during negotiations (36%)

– Ensure my home is safe during showings (31%)

– See what my real estate agent is saying about the home (23%)

– Constantly on for security purposes (10%)

SO, WHAT HAS CAUSED THIS NEW TREND OF SELLERS WATCHING BUYERS?

The low cost of Wi-Fi-enabled cameras has made it easy for the average joe (men were found to be more likely to use hidden cameras than women in the study) to put them up around their home. These cameras allow them to watch the showing in real-time or come back to the recording later. By this year, Parks Associates, a consumer technology firm, projected that as many as 50 million homes would have at least one Wi-Fi camera*.

YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING, ISN’T THIS ILLEGAL?

Because one would not have a “reasonable expectation of privacy” when in someone else’s home—video recording is typically not prohibited. In Wisconsin, the law does not prohibit a seller from monitoring their home during an open house, nor does it require notification by the seller to interested parties that monitoring is occurring *. This law took effect in January 20202; however, there are some stipulations: no recording sharing may take place, and the bathroom cannot be under surveillance. 

SO, WHAT CAN A BUYER DO?

It’s always best to assume the seller may be watching on camera. One suggestion our agents have is to act as though the seller is present at your showing—because if they have a camera recording, they very well could be present at the showing. Additionally, with the prevalence of video recording doorbells and outdoor surveillance equipment—it’s best not to talk through your thoughts on the property until you’re away from the property entirely. 

Although the digital age has brought many benefits to buyers and sellers alike, this is one point that buyers need to be aware of as they tour homes. So next time you’re at a showing or visiting an open house, smile–you could be on camera. 

CHECK OUT OUR RECENT POSTS:

Is the Shed Worth it? & Ways to Help a Shed Add Value
Best Places to Get Outside this Winter in Southeastern Wisconsin
Home Sales in a Wisconsin Winter: Our Tips to a Successful Sale

BACKYARD LUXURY SHEDS: VALUABLE ADDITION OR SIMPLY A DECORATIVE ELEMENT?

Small Blue Shed with Windows
Photo from Danielle Rice on Unsplash

Commonly referred to as She-sheds, luxury sheds have become many people’s backyard oasis from the chaos of everyday life. With their popularity first taking off in the early 2000s, the pandemic accelerated the growth of the shed market. To many homeowners, it was the solution for increasing living space and providing separation, whether for relaxation or work purposes. However, are these fancy sheds worth it? Do they add any value to your home, especially for a resale?

Well, the answer varies on a case-to-case basis or a shed-to-shed basis in this instance. However, there is a greater potential of adding value if it adheres to a few rules. . .

  1. IT IS ON A FOUNDATION

When it’s not on a foundation, it’s personal property and doesn’t contribute towards the appraisal value. If it’s on a foundation, then an appraiser may add it into the property’s overall value. However, one thing to note is that if it’s on a foundation, it becomes taxable*.

  1. IT HAS ALL ITS PROPER PERMITS, IF NECESSARY

Without proper building permits, the shed can quickly become a liability and deterrent to a sale—besides not adding any appraisal value. So, be sure to always check your local laws regarding building before you start the process.

  1. IT IS EASILY CONVERTIBLE

Although you may want to build out the shed to your exact desires and building specifications, it will be more desirable if it’s more easily convertible, offering the potential for easy conversion for different uses.

  1. IT IS ESTHETICALLY PLEASING & MADE WITH QUALITY MATERIALS

For adding value, the outside of your shed does matter. If the shed is a square with a roof—you’re not likely to get much interest. To add the most value, you should match the aesthetic of your home and use the highest quality materials when building. Although custom-built sheds will be deemed more valuable, typically—a well-built, high-quality prefabricated shed can still add value.

  1. IT IS WELL-MAINTAINED

If the shed isn’t well-maintained, any potential value gained by its presence on the property quickly disappears. A dilapidated shed is not only an eye-sore that may cause buyers to spend less on a home; it could also prevent a loan from being issued.

 

All in all, if you’re considering putting a shed in for the value additive properties-we would recommend to forgo it; because any added value will likely not be equal to the cost of the shed. However, if it’s something you really want, whether it adds resale value or not – then you should certainly add one to your property!

 

CHECK OUT OUR RECENT POSTS:

Housing Market Predictions for 2022
Best Places to Get Outside this Winter in Southeastern Wisconsin
Home Sales in a Wisconsin Winter: Our Tips to a Successful Sale

GUIDE ON BEST PLACES FOR HIKING, CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING, SNOWSHOEING & SLEDDING/TUBING  

Enjoying Wisconsin in the winter months can be challenging, with all the gear, snow, cold temperatures, and sometimes ice. If you’re looking to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty this winter season, whether you’re looking for a simple hike or an exhilarating sledding hill, we’ve got you covered.

 

Photo by Enrico Perini from Pexels

HIKING

LAPHAM PEAK

Location: W329 N846, County Rd C, Delafield, WI 53018

Websitehttps://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/laphampeak

With multiple hiking trails of varying difficulties and lengths, this park offers an excellent option for everyone to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Although it’s undoubtedly picturesque in the summer months, there’s a certain beauty to the trails covered in a blanket of white.

This site does have a fee to enter and remains open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

 

ICE AGE TRAIL

Location: Over the State of Wisconsin

Websitehttps://www.iceagetrail.org/winter-hiking-on-the-ice-age-trail/

One of Wisconsin’s natural treasures, the Ice Age Trail system, is something that can be enjoyed all year long. They even have a winter tracker that allows you to see trail closures and snow depth before you go. The Ice Age Trail offers an excellent opportunity to see the great state of Wisconsin; just be sure you’re always adequately prepared to hike whatever track you choose-especially in winter.

 

RETZER NATURE CENTER

Location: S14 W28167 Madison St Waukesha, WI 53188

Websitehttps://www.waukeshacounty.gov/retzernaturecenter 

Retzer Nature Center is a fantastic venue for all your outdoor adventures, offering environmental education, special events, and even a planetarium. They also have multiple hiking and snowshoe trails available for visitors, with snowshoe rentals available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The grounds are open from sunrise to 10:00 PM all year-round, and there is no entrance fee.

 

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/SNOW SHOEING

LAPHAM PEAK (SKI/SNOWSHOE)

Location: W329 N846, County Rd C, Delafield, WI 53018

Websitehttps://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/laphampeak

Besides excellent hiking opportunities, Lapham Peak offers visitors a top-notch cross-country skiing experience with their groomed trails for varying abilities. It is the most visited cross-country ski trail in southern Wisconsin, and for a good reason. All tracks are groomed several times a week for both classic and skate, and they create manufactured snow for trails as well. So whether you’re a novice beginner or a Birkie fanatic, there’s a trail for you.

If you’d like to try but don’t have gear, the Nordic Specialists on-site shop provides equipment rentals on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4:00 – 9:00 PM and Saturdays/Sundays from 4:00 – 10:00 PM.

There are also paved parking lots, restrooms, and drinking water; alongside a heated warming structure at The Evergreen parking lot.

NASHOTAH PARK (SKI/SNOWSHOE)

Location: W330 N5113, County Rd C, Nashotah, WI 53058

Websitehttps://www.waukeshacounty.gov/landandparks/park-system/find-a-park/nashotah-park/ 

With 10 kilometers of cross-country ski trails, both classic and skate, this park offers easy flat and small hill terrain. It also provides beautiful scenery of lakes, forests, fields, cedar glades, and marsh. There are three trails, from novice to advanced, offering an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the park and is a local favorite.

The park is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM and does have an entrance fee.

 

EMMA CARLIN-KETTLE MORAINE (SNOWSHOE)

Location: County Highway Z, south of Highway 59, Palmyra

Websitehttps://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/emma-carlin-trails-orange-loop

This is a great option for snowshoers, with loops of 2 to 6 miles with varied terrain. As it’s typically used for mountain biking in the warmer months, winter offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy its splendor without sharing the trail with too many bikers; still, be sure to watch out for the fat-tired snow bikes while using the trail.

The trail is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and does have an entrance fee.

 

 

SCUPPERNONG-KETTLE MORAINE (SNOWSHOE)

Location: S58-W35820 County Road ZZ, Dousman

For more snowshoeing adventures, check out the Scuppernong. Although previously groomed for cross-country, the trail has since been opened up to hikers, snowshoers, pets, and skiers who want to make their own path. It offers snowshoers a serene forest walk without worrying about the bikes.

The trail is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and does have an entrance fee.

 

NORDIC TRAIL-KETTLE MORAINE (SKI/SOME SNOWSHOE)

Location: East of Whitewater.

Websitehttps://wisconsintrailguide.com/cross-country-skiing/nordic-trail.html

This trail features more than 29 kilometers of various groomed trails with an array of terrain and fantastic scenic views. Unlike Lapham Peak, this trail is generally flat or slightly rolling and is a good spot for novices or intermediates in skate and classic disciplines. The trailhead has a heated warming shelter, pit toilets, drinking water, and a paved parking lot.

The trail is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and does have an entrance fee.

 

MCMILLER-KETTLE MORAINE (SKI)

Location: S103W38754 County Road Nn Eagle, WI 53119

Websitehttps://wisconsintrailguide.com/cross-country-skiing/mcmiller.html

This is an excellent multi-loop trail with varying terrain from flats to a few steep hills and scenic views of prairie and forest. The trails are groomed for classic and skate and would primarily be categorized as intermediate trails. It offers a paved parking area, heated warming area, drinking water, and pit toilets. It also provides a biathlon range that is open for use during daylight hours, seven days a week.

The trail is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and does have an entrance fee.

Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash

SLEDDING/TUBING

HILL IN SUMMIT

Location: Genesee Lake Road Park- 37505 Genesee Lake Rd. Summit, WI 53066

This is a very large, long hill, and you’ll have to walk to get to the top; however, there are no trees on the hill—making it a safer ride down. It is also set back a bit from the parking lot, so you’ll certainly get your workout in by the time your fun on the hill is over.

Cost: Free

 

FOWLER PARK

Location: 438 N Oakwood Ave, Oconomowoc, WI 53066

If you’re looking for a small hill that’s safer for younger children, then Fowler Park is a good option. It also offers you the opportunity to enjoy downtown Oconomowoc and all its amenities.

Cost: Free

 

NASHOTAH PARK

Location: W330 N5113 County Hwy C Nashotah, WI 53058

Whether you’re looking to hike, snowshoe or sled, Nashotah Park is an excellent spot to enjoy this winter. The hill is not too large, more of a gentle slope-making it an perfect choice for sledders of all ages. There is parking at picnic area #2.

Cost: Park fees apply

 

NATURE HILL

Location: 850 Lake Drive, Oconomowoc, WI 53066

If you’re searching for a sledding hill that offers a bit more difficulty, then Nature Hill could be the hill for you. This hill does have some nearby trees and can be more challenging to control your descent on. Additionally, the parking lot for the hill is relatively small and it is a bit of a trek to get sledding, but many have enjoyed it past winter seasons.

Cost: Free

 

SUNBURST

Location: 8355 Prospect Dr, Kewaskum, WI 53040

Websitehttps://skisunburst.com/snow-tube/

If you’re able, you’ve got to check out the World’s Largest Tubing Hill this winter. Sunburst offers over 40 chutes, a 90-foot drop, and the potential to reach speeds of up to 30 mph on their tubes. Rules state that all riders are at least 42’ tall and ride solo. It is a location that requires waivers to be signed prior to tubing.

Cost: See website as ticket cost varies, as do hours of operation

 

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Housing Market Predictions for 2022
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Best Gifts to Get the New Homeowner for Christmas

WISCONSIN WINTER HOME SALES: TIPS & TRICKS TO AID IN A TRANSACTION

home during snow fall
Photo by Kelly L from Pexels

So, you have to sell your home during the winter months of Wisconsin? While it’s not traditionally the ideal market, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your listing. In fact, because many sellers don’t list their homes in winter–it means your home will have lower levels of competition. Additionally, the buyers searching during the winter are typically more serious about purchasing a house. Therefore, a successful transaction is well within your reach, especially if you follow some easy tips. 

TURN UP THE HEAT

You want the temperature to be comfortable inside your home, inviting buyers to stay a little longer. The Department of Energy recommends a heat setting of 68 °F, while a study done by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that most residents veer towards a heat set between 67 and 70 °F, for maximum comfort and energy savings. 

CLEAR THE PATH

Although it can be tough to keep up in snowy Wisconsin winters, keeping clear paths will be worth it. Additionally, if you have a driveway, keeping it clear will also help make entrance to your home easier. 

LIGHTS! 

As winter days are short, lighting is an important aspect to keep in mind. Be sure to replace any lighting that is out or dim to ensure that your home is well-illuminated. Also, be sure to turn on all lights so the house is lit up and stands out when buyers arrive. You could even consider putting in some spotlights in the yard for it to pop. 

SUMMER/SPRING PICTURES 

During winter, it can be difficult for buyers to get the whole picture of the property. Perhaps you have stunning landscape or views, but the interested parties won’t be able to see it in the winter. Therefore, it’s essential to have pictures printed out that showcase your home and property in the summer or spring seasons. 

ADD A RUG OR BOOT MAT 

Winter weather = messes, and you don’t want all that mud or snow tracked through your staged home. By adding a rug or boot mat, you can save yourself work and improve the buyers’ experience by eliminating the potential for mess. 

STOW AWAY THE WINTER GEAR

Although it’s convenient to have a winter gear pile right by the front door for a quick grab and go, it’s not conducive for a buyers’ “wow” moment. The front area of your home is the first impression buyers will have of the interior, and you don’t want their first impression to be of your mismatched gloves or five different winter coats. 

KEEP DECORATIONS SIMPLE

Even though you may be celebrating the holidays over the winter seasons and want to do your typical decorations inside your home—you should consider keeping it very simple and tame. Decorations could potentially distract a buyer from the bones and flow of the house, which may cause you to lose out on a sale. 

GET SNOW-FREE PHOTOS IF POSSIBLE 

Although the weather is unpredictable, getting snow-free photos is something to aim for. The snow can obscure your home, and also, may lack visual appeal to buyer; meaning they may be less likely to click on the listing. If you can’t avoid the snow, then be sure that your realtor is getting photos when the shadows are not too harsh (as the snow will exaggerate the shadows) and that the exposure is fine-tuned.

REMOVE OUTSIDE DECORATIONS 

You want your house to stand out, but you don’t want outside holiday decorations to take away from the home itself. So if you’re selling your house in winter, forgo the inflatable decorations for a year—as some buyers will be turned away by such things. 

KEEP HOLIDAY SCENTS UNCOMPLICATED

If you’ve read our previous blog posts on the best way to use scents in home sales (check it out here!), then you’ll know where we are going with this. Holiday scents can be fun–pine, peppermint, gingerbread, and so many more! It can be so tempting to plugin or light up every possible scent, but if you’re in the process of selling your home, we would suggest holding off. A blend of different winter or holiday scents wafting through the air could make a buyer uninterested, or worse, make them think that you’re trying to hide something scent-wise. To be safe, stick to one universally appealing scent that is not too strong.

Above all, price it right. Although pricing the home right is always important, it’s imperative during the winter months as pricing it too high will further discourage buyers from venturing out in the cold weather to tour your home. If you’re interested in selling your home this winter and looking to price it right–reach out to a member of our team for their expert advice on Wisconsin winter home sales!

 

CHECK OUT SOME SIMILAR POSTS TO WISCONSIN WINTER HOME SALES:

Housing Market Predictions for 2022
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10 Helpful Tips to Protect Your Home (and Wallet) this Winter

OUR 13 GIFT SUGGESTIONS FOR THE NEW HOMEOWNER

Present Boxes with Bows on Top

Do you have a new homeowner in your life that you’re looking to give the perfect Christmas gift? Check out our 13 suggestions for a present for those in your life that have recently acquired a new residence!

 

  1. KITCHEN GADGETS

    For someone moving into a new home, a new gadget may be the perfect addition to their kitchen: a blender, instant pot, air fryer, or even waffle maker. These things tend to run a bit more expensive, so be sure to make sure that you’re not buying duplicates or something they won’t use.

    Shop for Instant Pot Here

  2. PERSONALIZED DOORMAT

    Help celebrate the milestone by gifting the homeowners something they’ll see and use every day.

    Shop for Personalized Doormat

  3. INDOOR GARDEN SET

    Give someone the gift of fresh produce all year-long with an indoor garden, which is especially helpful in Wisconsin winters.

    Browse Some Top-Rated Options 

  4. BLUELAND CLEAN ESSENTIALS

    After moving into a new home and unpacking, cleaning is likely the last thing they want to do—but with Blueland’s cleaning products, cleaning is both easy and green! Blueland uses reusable packaging and plastic-free refills alongside a clean formula.

    Shop Blueland Clean Essentials

  5. FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS

    Friends don’t let friends keep leftovers in Styrofoam containers. Instead, show some love by gifting some glass, plastic, or metal food storage containers.

    Shop Food Storage Containers

  6. TOOLKIT

    It might not be a very aesthetically pleasing gift, but it is a very practical gift that will likely get plenty of use. You can always create one based on the homeowners’ needs and particular situations or simply purchase a standard tool kit from a home improvement store.

    Use this List to Build Your Own Toolkit for Homeowner

  7. FIRE EXTINGUISHER

    Help keep the occupants of the home safe by purchasing them their very own fire extinguisher. A gift you hope they don’t have to use but will feel good knowing they have.

    Browse the Best Fire Extinguishers

  8. PLANT SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

    A plant subscription is a perfect gift for those with a “green” thumb to help start filling their new home with plants. This company even offers a pet-friendly box for those who are both dog/cat and plant parents.

    Check Out The Sill for Subscription Service

  9. COASTERS

    Coasters are a great gift to keep all the new furniture protected from stains or spills, especially due to the massive amounts of customization and variety available when purchasing.

    Shop Coasters

  10. BLANKET OR THROW

    For the homeowner that appreciates cuddling up on the sofa with a cozy blanket and a good book or show, then a nice blanket that is luxurious but also attractive is a must.

    Shop Blankets & Throws

  11. BACKYARD GAMES

    If the new home has a backyard, getting the owner an engaging backyard game is the perfect way to ensure that they can get out and enjoy it.

    Shop Backyard Games

  12. BOARD GAMES

    Alternatively, board games are also another great gift for new homeowners as they provide entertainment and the opportunity for quality time.

    Shop Board Games

  13. GIFT CARD

    If you’re having difficulty deciding on a singular thing to purchase for the new homeowner in your life this Christmas, never fear-gift cards are here! Gift them the gift of choice with a card to a home improvement store, garden center, a local restaurant near their home, or anywhere else!

 

CHECK OUT OUR RECENT POSTS:

Housing Market Predictions for 2022
5 Tips on How to Best Use Scent in Home Sales

HOUSING MARKET PREDICTIONS FOR 2022: INVENTORY & PRICING

photo with wooden block house in front of four stacks of coins
Photo by nattanan23 on pixabay

The pandemic spurred one of the hottest real estate markets ever, with elevated levels of competition and prices. In fact, “between August 2020 and August 2021, home prices soared a record 19.9%,” which was a 5.8% increase from the past largest price jump, occurring right before the 2008 crash. The market’s vitality was due to a few main factors: low mortgage rates, more people working from home, changing demographics, and low supply*. However, the big question is, what will next year’s market look like? 

Even as early as October 2021, there has been evidence of rebalancing in the market with a reduction in multiple offers, return of contingencies in submitted offers, and price reductions*. However, experts believe the real estate market will remain hot, albeit somewhat more subdued in comparison. 

HOME INVENTORY PROJECTIONS IN 2022

In 2022, the supply of homes is projected to increase, but experts project that housing inventory will remain a problem for a while, potentially the next 2 to 3 years*. This is due to a shortage of houses on the market, supply chain disruptions, and a lack of new builds, compounding the shortage of new development in the past decade*. In fact, according to Fanny Mae analysts, there’s a four million home discrepancy, nationwide, between demand and supply*. The lack of supply is also problematic due to the new generation, millennials, entering the housing market as first-time buyers. 

HOME PRICES PROJECTIONS IN 2022

If you’ve been waiting for prices to drop drastically, you won’t see that in 2022. Although according to most experts, home price gains are projected to slow “to around 5%, “*. Experts expect that the factors affecting demand, like low inventory and interest rates, will continue to plague the market; although the current high inflation rate could increase interest and mortgage rates, which would calm down the market*. Some disagree with the theory that price gains will slow, proclaiming that price gains will rise to a double-digit percentage and continue their upward trajectory.  

Unfortunately, there is no magic crystal ball that we can look to for the future of the real estate market; however, by using experts’ opinions and past trends in the market, we can try and prophesize the future market trends.

WONDERING WHAT OUR AGENTS EXPECT IN THE LAKE COUNTRY MARKET? REACH OUT AND CONNECT WITH A MEMBER OF OUR LISTING TEAM WITH 30+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE!

 

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LET’S GET CRAFTING!

Why not make this Thanksgiving the most festive yet by doing one (or more) of these fun Turkey Day crafts! We scoured the internet for 7 of the easiest craft projects that will elevate your event in both style and fun.

Click the photos or title to be directed to the instructions/recipe.

1. NO-BAKE TURKEY COOKIE POPS

Photo/Recipe from Rachel at Simple Seasonal

Looking to make some cute after-dinner treats but don’t have the time to bake? Then these no-bake turkey cookies made with Oreos are a perfect choice. They can also be made a week in advance and stored in a bag until you need them.

2. TOILET PAPER PUMPKINS 

Photo/Craft from Katie at Made to be a Momma

Another quick and easy craft is these toilet paper pumpkins; with just five supplies needed (toilet paper, fabric, cinnamon sticks, eucalyptus leaves & twine), this craft takes less than 30 minutes, and the results are beautiful.

3. TURKEY MINI PUMPKINS

Photo/Craft from Princess Pinky Girl

If you’re looking for something to adorn your Thanksgiving table, then look no further than these cute pumpkin turkeys. You could even use them as placeholders by adding names!

4. FRUIT KABOB TURKEY CENTERPIECE

Photo/Craft from Happy Home Fairy

With all the carbs consumed at Thanksgiving, it can be good to get some fruit in. Kids and adults alike are sure to eat some fruit when it’s displayed like this. This craft doesn’t have written instructions, but the photos can easily be used as a reference to recreate your very own fruit turkey.

5. TURKEY TREATS 

Photo/Craft by Clean and Scentsible

A great favor for guests to take home or for décor, these easy-to-make turkeys are a real treat; simply fill tulle with fall-colored Reese’s Pieces or M&M’s, attach pipe cleaners and eyes, and voilà.

6. THANKSGIVING TURKEY BALLOONS 

Photo/Craft by Design Improvised

A straightforward balloon craft that results in a perfect decoration for your celebrations. Be sure to get helium if you want the balloons to float; otherwise, you can always tape the balloons to the wall if you can’t get any helium.

7. CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS IN A TURKEY BOWL

Photo/Craft by Inside Bru Crew Life

What’s better than a craft? An edible one! This unique craft produces not only décor but also some fantastic snacks for your guests. Have leftovers? Purchase some favor bags that are fall-themed and let your guests take some pretzels home.

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When preparing to sell a home, the first step recommended to sellers is to stage and improve the property’s curb appeal. In essence, the emphasis is on appealing to the visual sense of potential buyers. However, many sellers could be missing the boat by not appealing to buyers’ other senses, specifically the sense of smell.

This sense is managed by the olfactory nerve, which is intertwined with the same part of the brain that deals with memories and emotions. A study on the subject uncovered the following: 

The results of these studies have use in environments like health care institutions and retail businesses, but they can also apply to the world of real estate.  

Smells can quickly deter or attract buyers to a potential home, immediately giving them a first impression; therefore, it’s imperative to have a good smelling home during showings or open houses. However, there’s a fine line between creating a pleasant aroma within a home and overdoing it. To use smell to its best potential, we suggest adhering to the 5 following guidelines:

USE A DIFFUSER TO BETTER CONTROL SCENTS

A better alternative to a wall plug-in or a candle is to use a mist diffuser, as it allows for greater control of the scent. When using a diffuser, it is crucial to avoid more polarizing fragrances, like patchouli, sandalwood, or ylang-ylang. Instead, people prefer crisp, fresh, or inviting scents like grapefruit, orange, lemon, vanilla, apple, or cinnamon.

DO NOT MIX SCENTS

Research suggests that adding multiple scents together can be seen as distracting by interested parties, eliminating any potential benefits scent may have in real estate*.

PICK A SUITABLE SCENT

One way to use scent is to match it to the vibe of the available home. For example, pine or cedar scents would do well in a forest or mountain-based home but may seem out of place at a beachside bungalow.

ADD PLANTS

Besides being visually attractive, plants can also emit pleasant aromas. When choosing plants or flowers, it’s better to select light-smelling florals and ones that are more universally appealing. Be sure to keep the plants in an attractive condition as well!

STAY AWAY FROM BAKED GOODS

Although baking cookies or sweet bread may have been the past go-to for creating a scented atmosphere, many agents now see it as passé.

So, if you’re planning on selling your home be sure to maximize your property’s impact on buyers by appealing to their sense of smell–because the nose always knows. Connect with one of our agents to get other unique tips to improve buyers’ experience at showings and increase your chances of a sale!

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As Wisconsin winter looms and the lush, green foliage gradually disappears from the landscape, here are five of the easiest house plants to grow inside your home. Besides simply improving the aesthetics of your home, there are other beneficial advantages to cultivating indoor plants; these include things like:

Although cultivating house plants can seem like a challenge, these plants are some of the most uncomplicated to grow and can get you started on your journey to being a plant parent of a wide variety.

House Plants: Spider Plant in Decorative Pot
Photo by Susan Wilkinson from Unsplash

1. SPIDER PLANT

Spider Plants are one of the most resilient plants, which makes them perfect for plant beginners. The plant can grow well in a variety of conditions and is not prone to many complications. In terms of “best” growing conditions, they prefer to be in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light. Another benefit of these plants is that they can handle dry conditions for periods in between watering.

 

House Plants: Blooming Peace Lily on Blue Background
Photo by Bellava G from Unsplash

2. PEACE LILY

If you prefer plants that are a bit taller than the spider plant but still as hardy, then the peace lily may be the one for you; it will even let you know when it needs watering by its drooping leaves. They thrive in low-light spaces, although one must be careful not to overwater and ensure the plant has proper drainage. One important note is that Peace Lily’s are mildly toxic to animals and people, so it’s important to keep them away from pets and small children.

 

House Plants: Snake Plant on White Background
Photo by Fabian Stroobants from Pexels

3. SNAKE PLANT

This is a difficult plant to kill, thriving in many conditions and with a growth potential of 8 feet tall. These plants will grow in any light conditions and is also drought-resistant. However, overwatering can be a concern with this plant, so it should only receive water when the dirt feels dry. In addition, this plant is toxic to animals. 

House Plants: Aloe at Farmer's Market Stand
Photo by Cintia Siqueira from Pexels

 4. ALOE VERA

A popular succulent, Aloe, is another plant whose care is not too complicated; additionally, it offers medicinal benefits, as the gel is used to treat minor burns and rashes. The two main growth factors are water only when necessary and to keep it in a sunny location. Another way to ensure that the plant doesn’t become waterlogged is to plant it in a terracotta pot, as its clay material is more porous. Unfortunately, Aloe is toxic to pets, so keep it away from your furry friends or get a haworthia succulent plant instead, as these are not toxic to pets.

House Plants: Parlor Palm on Dresser
Photo by Studio Light & Shade from iStock

5. PARLOR PALM

The Parlor Palm is an attractive house plant that grows in small clumps with palm-like foliage adorning thin stalks. This plant is a slow grower, with a height potential of 2 to 6 feet indoors. It can tolerate various light conditions but prefers bright, indirect light. In terms of watering, this plant does not like to sit in wet soil, so . For pet owners, this is an excellent option as it is non-toxic.

So stop by your local garden center and pick up one of these easy-to-care-for house plants today to improve your home décor and obtain the many other benefits of being a plant parent!

 

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