The fall season is a wonderful time of year in Oconomowoc! The changing colors in nature are gorgeous, the air is crisp, and you can adorn your home with fall décor. Luckily, Oconomowoc is surrounded by a number of farms that host outdoor fall activities, and supply a variety of crops for your seasonal decorating needs. Check out these pumpkin farms, located near Oconomowoc, to pick up some autumnal décor or the perfect jack-o’-lantern!
N1255 Hoard Rd, Lebanon WI
Located just north of Oconomowoc, Glacier Rock Farms is a petting farm that offers a variety of fall activities. Stop by for hayrides, a petting zoo, corn maze, Dark Side Haunt, and pumpkin picking.
W320 N9127 Highway 83, Hartland, WI 53029 (Merton)
Homestead Animal Farm in Merton is located off of Highway 83. Visit the farm animals, take a hayride, and pick out pumpkins, gourds and more.
W299 S6370 State Road 83, Mukwonago, WI 53149
Pick your own or pick pre-picked pumpkins at Schuett Farms in Mukwonago. They also offer fall decorations, a corn maze, and hayrides.
N7416 County Road I, Juneau WI 53039
Proclaimed as Wisconsin’s largest pumpkin farm, Waldvogel’s has over 70 unique attractions. There you can launch a pumpkin from their pumpkin launcher, slide down their super mega slide, take a hayride and much more. Admission tickets are required for guests 3 and over.
N5648 S. Farmington Rd, Helenville, WI 53137
Jelli’s Market is located west of Oconomowoc. You can pick you own apples, pears, pumpkins, gourds, or squash. They also have fall activities and fresh baked goods.
W1795 Fox Rd, Ixonia, WI 53036
The expansive Ebert’s Green House offers hayrides, games, sweet treats, and more during the fall season.
1545 Main Street Hwys ES & J Mukwonago, WI 53149
Elegant Farmer is a popular place in the fall. They offer pick your own apples and pumpkins, train rides, hayrides, corn maze, and their famous smilin’ barn café featuring their pie baked in a brown paper bag.
S11 W30780 Summit Avenue, Waukesha, Wisconsin 53188
Cozy Nook Farm offers farm tours, hayrides, and a variety of pumpkins and gourds to choose from.
3190 County Line Q, Colgate, WI 53017
Just east of Oconomowoc you will find Basse’s Taste of Country. General admission tickets are required but they have over 65 unique fall activities to enjoy. Pick-your-own pumpkins, go through the corn maze, and check out all of their family-friendly activities.
19075 W Cleveland Ave, New Berlin, WI, WI 53146
Lindner Pumpkin farm has a variety of animals in their petting zoo, corn maze, pumpkins, gourds and fall decorations.
Rake in the fun Downtown Oconomowoc, for the 10th annual Fall Festival. The community event has something for everyone. Here are 8 reasons to visit Fall Fest in Oconomowoc.
This year’s list of vendors is extensive. A variety of local artisan vendors are slated to line both sides of Wisconsin Avenue during Fall Fest. The event provides a perfect opportunity to shop local, and even get some holiday shopping done early.
There will be an assortment of food vendors at this year’s event. From your favorite local eateries, to some new places to try.
The Village Green will host the main stage, providing family friendly entertainment. Community performances will take place in the morning, with music to follow starting at 1 PM.
The kid zone will be located outside of the St. Paul’s Church and school, and scheduled to be open from 9 AM – 4 PM. There will be games, prizes, inflatables and more.
The Village Green is scheduled to open the beer garden at 11 AM. Grab a refreshing brew from Oconomowoc’s own, Brewfinity Brewing Company.
This year, there will be a Fall Fest Trolley that will make its way around the outskirts of Fowler Lake, and to the new police station parking lot. The Village Green and the north end of Fowler Lake will also have trolley stops.
The venue is tough to beat. Fall fest takes places in the heart of charming Downtown Oconomowoc with beautiful views of Fowler Lake.
No admission fee required- Fall Fest is a FREE community event.
Event information provided is believed to be accurate and reliable but is not guaranteed and subject to change. Please make sure to verify information for the event prior to attending.
Unleashing in 2020 and continuing into 2021, the Oconomowoc real estate market has been lively. Supply of homes for sale were at historic lows, buyer demand surged, and home prices sky rocketed. The Covid-19 pandemic affected both supply and demand of housing. This summer began with the same vitality, but now the market is beginning to lighten up.
For the first seven months of the year, the average median sales price was up over 11% for homes in Waukesha County, compared to the same time period last year. We are still seeing bidding wars for popular homes in Oconomowoc and surrounding area, which ultimately drives up the final sales price.
Last month, many homes in Oconomowoc sold for at, or above the asking price (as high as $50,000 over the list price). Below is a timeline of the median home sales price in Waukesha County. Last month’s median sale price was slightly down from June.
Statewide, supply of homes remained below the benchmark of a balanced market. Total listings last month were 11% lower than the respective month last year, according to the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association most recent home sales report. This was a major improvement from the first month of the year, where listings were down over 30% compared to January 2020.
Locally, it is still a strong seller’s market with buyer demand outpacing supply. Bidding wars, and homes going under contract quickly are still common.
The arise of the pandemic last year pushed back the bulk of home sales into summer, rather than the typical busy spring season. Unsurprisingly, home sales this year could not beat last July’s record breaking month.
With buyer demand outpacing supply, it is still a great time to sell your home. Historically, the real estate market slows down as the holiday and winter season approaches, so now is the time to get your home on the market.
Find our what your home is worth in today’s market by contacting your local REALTORS® at Oconomowoc Realty for a free comparative market analysis.
If you put your plans on hold to buy a home in Oconomowoc or the surrounding Lake Country area, now might be the time for you to start looking. There are more homes on the market during the summer and fall season, and you can still take advantage of low mortgage rates before they start creeping up.
If you have questions about purchasing a home or want to get the ball rolling, contact us anytime to speak to a REALTOR®.
Oconomowoc Festival Week includes an assortment of activities and entertainment leading up to the annual Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts, happening the third weekend in August. Check out what is going on, leading up to the art festival. Event information should be verified before attending, as they are subject to change.
Starting August 7, 2021
Take a stroll through Downtown Oconomowoc after it is colored with yarn. Trees, benches, bike racks and more will be covered with colorful patterns knitted by volunteers, to help benefit the Lake Area Free Clinic.
August 10, 2021 | 9 AM to 1 PM
This year’s Oconomowoc Kid’s Fest will be held at a new location: Fowler Park. There will be free games, performances, activities, crafts, and plenty of fun for kids.
August 12, 2021 | Starting at 6 PM
Watch a movie in Fowler Park at dusk, at this free community event. Come early to watch the Badgerland Waterski Show at 7 pm. Movie to be announced.
August 20-22, 2021
Enjoy craft beer and entertainment at the Village Green, Downtown Oconomowoc.
August 21, 2021 | Dusk
Watch the boat parade on Lac La Belle as the boats illuminate the lake, by being decked out in lights and decorations. Come early for the Oconomowoc American Legion band concert at the City Beach band shell beginning at 7:30 PM. After the parade, stay for the fireworks show over the lake.
August 21 & 22, 2021 | 10 AM to 5 PM
The annual Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts will take place the third weekend in August, at the beautiful Fowler Lake Park. This year, the festival will celebrate its 50th anniversary.
Learn more about this popular event on the Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts website.
Weaving art into your home is a perfect way to add character to your home’s décor. Pieces of art will also add a sense of depth and sophistication to any room. Here are 10 helpful tips for integrating art into your home.
Find the focal point of a room to display art. When you walk into a room, where do your eyes look first? Since the focal point of a room draws attention, it provides an ideal spot to hang artwork.
Use the secondary color in art to use as an accent color in a room. Pillows and lampshades in the accent color can help unify the space.
Make a bold statement and also add cohesiveness to a space, by grouping multiple pieces of art from the same artist.
For a casual look, lean multiple pieces of artwork in different sizes instead of hanging.
For good feng shui, artwork that has water depicted in it should not be displayed higher than your nose. If displayed higher, it can evoke the feeling of suppression.
Framing artwork can make it more special and keep it in good condition.
Display art that inspires you in the office. Art is a great way to personalize your office area and keep you inspired.
Bedroom artwork should reflect relaxation. A large-scale piece in soothing colors can help your bedroom feel more like a retreat.
Going beyond the canvas and blending in other works of art such as tapestries, sculptures, and pottery will help add texture and depth to a space.
For smaller rooms or spaces, using one bigger piece of art, versus multiple small pieces can help the space feel less cluttered.
The first half of 2021 had strong home sales, and robust median home price growth in Waukesha County. The number of home sales in the county were slightly up from 2020. The median home sales price increased over 11.5% in the first half of the year, compared to the respective time frame last year.
Forecasts predicted June home sales would fall flat or decrease, given the tight inventory of homes for sale. Home sales in June exceeded the number of sales a year ago in the County, but below the number of sales for the same month in 2015 through 2019. The median home sale price was over 9% higher in June, compared to a year ago.
According to the latest Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) housing report, the available supply of homes statewide was down almost 32% in June versus June 2020. Locally, the number of available homes for sale as of July 29, 2021 listed on Metro MLS was slim, as illustrated in the chart below. A strong seller’s market remains, as demand for homes continue to exceed the number of homes available. Homes are expected to continue to move quickly through this fall, the WRA’s report predicted.
The threat of inflation on the horizon, may lead to slow down in the real estate market. Inflation could lead to higher mortgage rates, resulting in buyer demand to moderate.
For now, the lack of inventory will continue to fuel high home prices. Home buyers should expect to offer at or above asking price for sought after homes, especially in the Oconomowoc real estate market. Besides the offer price, buyers should consider other ways to sweeten the deal for sellers, for a highly desirable home. Working with an experienced REALTOR, who knows the local market well can help buyers increase their chances to successfully purchase a home.
The celebrations are back for 2021. Here are a list of scheduled firework shows, Independence day parades & celebrations near Oconomowoc. Events mentioned below are subject to change and should be verified before attending.
Okauchee’s 4th of July Weekend Music Festival is July 2-4 at the Okauchee Lion’s Park. July 3 on Okauchee Lake. Enjoy music on land and water, and the car and ride-in bike show.
Kick off Independence Day weekend with a fireworks show at Centennial Park at dusk.
The Oconomowoc Rotary Club Independence Day Parade at 5 PM. The parade route starts at South Main & Jefferson St, through downtown and ends at Fowler Park.
The city’s annual Fireworks show over Fowler Lake is scheduled for 9:30 PM.
The fireworks show over Lake Nagawicka will begin at dusk. Watch the show from St. Johns’ Park or Naga-waukee County Park.
Enjoy the fireworks show from Riverside Park, scheduled for 9:30 PM.
Brookfield’s Independence Day Parade starts at 10 AM. Spectate from Calhoun Road, between Gebhardt Rd. and North Ave.
Family Fest, the annual pre-fireworks show event is from 6-9 PM at Mitchell Park. Enjoy family activities, food and entertainment. Fireworks are scheduled for 9:17 PM.
The Venetian Night lighted boat parade on Okauchee Lake is scheduled for 8:30 P.M, followed by the Okauchee Lake Fireworks show at dusk. The display will be held on Park Island between the Golden Mast Restaurant and The Hideaway Bar & Grill.
The Pewaukee Lake Waterski Show is scheduled for 6:45 PM, followed by music and fireworks at dusk.
The City’s Independence Day Parade downtown is set to begin at 11 AM. The Waukesha County Expo Center will host the annual fireworks show at dusk.
Family Fun Fest is an all-day event at Village Park. Kid activities will take place in the morning and afternoon, followed by the Third Space beer garden in the evening. The fireworks show is scheduled for 9:30 PM.
Watertown’s 4th of July parade is scheduled for 10 AM, downtown Watertown.
If you want to successfully buy a home in the Oconomowoc area in 2021, being decisive, aggressive on the offer price and terms, and working swiftly can help you succeed.
The pandemic that began last year did not deter home buyers, like it did to many sellers. Pent up buyer demand, and remarkably low inventory this year has caused bidding wars to surge for homes in Oconomowoc and surrounding area.
With no sign of buyer competition slowing down in the near future, being aware of the emerging trends in real estate negotiations can help you understand the local market and how to craft the winning bid on a home.
The trends are not listed in any particular order.
Bidding wars swell the final sales price, and sellers can get anxious about their home appraising out for the price they accepted at. In an effort to make a bid stand out to a seller, we have seen buyers offer an additional amount over the home’s appraised value, if the accepted purchase price exceeds the appraisal. This proposal sweetens the deal for the seller, and shows that the buyer is serious.
When a seller receives more than one bid they like, they have the option to multiple counter the appealing offers. Knowing other enticing bids are on the table, determined and capable buyers sometimes decide to just write a better offer instead, such as offering a higher purchase price.
If you receive a multiple counter offer from the seller, it means you are in the running for the home. Like any of these trends listed, it is wise to consult with your REALTOR® how to approach your unique multiple counter situation.
While secondary offers imply that you did not get the winning bid, you could still score the home in the end. A seller can accept one primary offer and have several “back up offers” known as secondary offers. If the initial primary offer falls through, the seller could move on to one of the secondary offers in line. Having secondary offers prevents the seller from putting the home back on the market if the first deal falls through.
To help manage several bids, it has become common for sellers to set a deadline for when any and all offers are due by, so they can review them simultaneously. In this case, being decisive and acting quickly is necessary as a buyer, to get your offer in front of the seller in time for them to review.
Accommodating the sellers with a lease-back option can help your offer stand out from the crowd. This option allows the buyer to rent the home back to the seller, for a predetermined amount of time after closing.
In this fast-paced market, some sellers are unprepared if their home sells quickly or have not found a new place to live yet. Catering to the seller’s needs can help you score the winning bid.
Being familiar with the trends and conditions of the real estate market you want to purchase in can help you set realistic expectations. Hiring an experienced REALTOR® who has a pulse on the local market can be your biggest asset, to help you successfully purchase a home in today’s competitive market. The best part: the seller pays both commissions at closing. It would be foolish not to hire your own agent that represents you and your best interests when purchasing real estate.
If you’re looking to purchase a home in Oconomowoc or the Lake Country area, Oconomowoc Realty is here to help. Just fill out the short form below to start the conversation, or contact one of our agents directly.
Now that your kids moved out, you may recognize that you have a big empty house that you still have to maintain, and that it might be time to downsize. Moving to a smaller house or a condo could help free up your time and money. Perks of the condo lifestyle may include having less maintenance, access to more amenities, and living in a unique location such as in a downtown area.
As your family expands and your kids grow older, you may start to acknowledge that you need more space. You may find that your ready for your own master bathroom, or need more room for all their toys and sporting gear. If your household is bulging at the seams, it may be a sign that it’s time to find a home that better fits you and your family’s needs.
If you have been thinking about retiring soon, or just want to divest in real estate, selling when property values are high can provide an opportunity to make a profit. In the local Oconomowoc real estate market, property values have increased significantly over the last few years.
Is that huge yard, long driveway, or expensive to maintain swimming pool got you financially or emotionally stressed? If so, then it may be time to purchase some lower maintenance real estate or try renting instead.
Sometimes you just want a new house. As your tastes and hobbies change, you may find yourself wanting something different than your current house offers, such as a larger yard. If you have been contemplating if the grass is greener on the other side, it may be a sign you’re ready to move on.
If homes in your neighborhood, similar to yours, recently sold for a price you would be happy with, it might be a good time to move. Check out sold listings online and “just sold” flyers in the mail to see what neighboring homes are going for. Another indicator is comparing the sold price to the asking price. In today’s crazy market, many sellers are cashing in on above asking price offers with favorable terms.
If you’re tired of traveling far for holidays to visit your family, have FOMO on other family gatherings, or want your parents more involved in your children’s life, it may be a good idea to move closer to family.
Interest rates have been at historic lows. Locking in a low, fixed rate mortgage for 15 or 30 years may sound like a good idea to you. Rates have been slowly creeping up however, and may continue to do so as the economy improves.
Renting has its advantages, but you may find yourself thinking about putting down roots and buying your own place. Owning your own home can give you a sense of stability, allows you to customize your home, and can help you build equity.
Deciding to move is a big decision with a lot of factors involved. If you own a home and have been thinking about selling, doing so in a strong seller’s market can help you sell your home faster, at a higher price and on more favorable terms.
To find out what your property could sell for in today’s hot market, contact us for a FREE comparative market analysis.
If you are considering purchasing a home or have questions about how to start the process, we can help with that too. Contact us at info@oconomowocrealty.com or 262-567-3611.
If you live in Oconomowoc or just visiting, there are plenty of things to do in Oconomowoc during summer. In the late 19th century, Oconomowoc became a favorite summer retreat for tourists and wealthy vacationers, including former U.S Presidents. Get out and experience summer in Oconomowoc. Events mentioned below are subject to change and should be verified before attending.
Being located in Lake Country, Oconomowoc has plenty of lakes and rivers in the area to paddle on.
Jane: I kayaked from Fowler to Oconomowoc Lake along the Oconomowoc River last summer – it was beautiful and I’d definitely recommend. You can rent kayaks at Sherper’s.
I love paddle boarding on Lac La Belle. If you need to rent a paddleboard, Paddleboard Specialists is great.
When their flags are flying, you know The Kiltie is open for the season. The iconic drive-in custard stand is a local favorite and only open during the summer months.
Oconomowoc’s rich history is evident by the historic real estate found throughout downtown and around Fowler Lake. Take the scenic, self-guided tour using the tour map from the Oconomowoc Historical Society. On your way to the 2nd historic site on the tour, stop in front of our office to check out the site of the 1st motion picture theater in Oconomowoc: The Crystal Theater, silent movies (1908-1930).
There are many lakes to choose from in the Oconomowoc area for swimming, boating, and recreation on the water.
The local farmers market take place on Saturday mornings from 8 AM to Noon, on the east side of Downtown Oconomowoc. The market offers a variety of local vendors and an assortment of products. Pete’s Pops is Jane’s favorite booth this year (really great popsicles in fun flavors). They’re @petespops on Instagram.
On July 3, watch the Independence Day Parade which ends at Fowler Park. Stay for the fireworks show at dusk.
There are plenty of free concerts throughout summer in Oconomowoc. Visit the bandshell at City Beach for the Oconomowoc American Legion Band concerts and Bands at the Beach. Magic Mansion in the Park is another free concert event at Fowler Park in the summer.
The 2021 dates for Moonlit Movies of Oconomowoc are June 22, July 8, and August 12. The free, family-friendly event is back at Fowler Park. Come early and find a spot along the shoreline to catch the Badgerland Waterski show beforehand.
Downtown Oconomowoc hosts an outdoor beer garden on the Village Green throughout summer. Enjoy local microbrews on tap along with other drinks and refreshments. This year’s beer garden dates are scheduled for June 17-19, July 15-17 and August 20-22, 2021
A great way to enjoy the area lakes is to go fishing. We’ve heard rumors of a secret musky population in Lac La Belle that only the best anglers can find. Wisconsin’s free fishing weekend is June 5 and 6, 2021.
Light up the lake is August 21, 2021 on Lac La Belle. A local favorite! Come see all the decorated and lit up boats in the boat parade and stay for the firework show.
The Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts is the third weekend in August, at Fowler Park. Enjoy free admission and shop a wide variety of artwork.
The Concord Zoo at Concord General Store has provided a sanctuary for animals from all different walks of life. Concord Zoo provides you the opportunity to reconnect with nature and animals. Plus, the best part: it’s free!
Dirty Kettle visits Concord General Store a few weekends throughout the summer. He brings Native American history alive with his hands on presentations and teepee replica.
Throughout summer in Oconomowoc, there are multiple races you can participate in, including the Yellow Brick Road 5k Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run, Lake Country Triathlon, and Midwest Paddlefest.
If you don’t want to compete in a race, watch one instead.
Ride to the Barns is a fundraising bike ride through Lake Country and rolling farmland in neighboring counties. Rest stops are at farms serving locally produced food and the ride ends with a post party featuring food, beer, refreshments and live music.
After a day on the lake, a frozen treat may be just what you need. Whether you prefer ice cream, custard or gelato- you can find them all in Oconomowoc. Jane’s excited for Mullen’s, which just opend behind Roots.
Take advantage of the weather when it’s nice out and dine outdoors. There are plenty of local restaurants and coffee shops that offer outdoor seating in Oconomowoc. If not, grab a to go order and find a table out on the Fowler Lake Boardwalk or have a picnic at Fowler Lake Park.
One of the best ways to unwind from the day is to catch a sunset lakeside. Lac La Belle has offered some of the most breathtaking sunset views.
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