Nicole Charles & Associates

2010-04-21T16:25:00.005-05:00

Our blog has moved!

Please go to http://www.nicolecharlesandassociates.blogspot.com/

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

2010-04-08T16:28:00.000-05:00

Nicole Wins Three Awards!

2010-03-31T14:14:00.000-05:00

Go Keller Williams!!

2010-03-02T17:44:00.001-06:00

Spring Time Bedroom Decorating Tip

2010-03-02T17:11:00.000-06:00

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

2010-02-25T13:28:00.000-06:00

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

2010-02-25T13:17:00.000-06:00

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!

2010-02-24T16:17:00.000-06:00

B Y M O R T G A G E J V K F Y C W J C E S D E F U
P U V P N E B S I J R R I D I B I V H A C R O J F
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V S O N F S C F P T I J F D R Y W N N H W Z O D G
Z W D H R M A M O R T I Z A T I O N S G K N O A O
K Z Y O A L A Q C R L B E T C D X E Y N T V P E A
U O B U Y E R S A G E N T A A H M S U I M P Q T Y
W F Z S O U S R E A L T O R R I T H N G R U F S P
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X G Y M U H S I Z Z V T P T N B R O R O O U L C H
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U R W F O D K P D A N I W M S R L Z X N D N R Y D
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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!

(Not transferrable to any other Keller Williams agent. Each office independently owned and operated. )

Freddie Mac losses mount, warns of foreclosures

2010-02-24T15:13:00.000-06:00

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

2010-02-22T13:32:00.000-06:00

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!

2010-01-25T16:48:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-15T15:39:00.000-06:00

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!

2010-01-12T18:03:00.000-06:00

Madison, WI: Home Value Trends

2010-01-12T12:54:00.000-06:00

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!!

2010-01-12T12:33:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-12T11:34:00.000-06:00

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!

2010-01-08T15:51:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-06T16:29:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-06T16:17:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-06T15:38:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-06T14:58:00.000-06:00

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

2010-01-06T13:50:00.000-06:00

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

2009-12-29T13:25:00.000-06:00

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

2009-12-17T10:43:00.000-06:00

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

2009-12-10T17:06:00.001-06:00

Jeremy Charles for Alder in City of Verona, District 4

2009-12-01T11:11:00.000-06:00

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

2009-12-01T10:52:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-25T12:22:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-24T14:07:00.000-06:00

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!

2009-11-13T12:51:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-12T14:54:00.001-06:00

Ha!

Where to Buy Fresh Turkeys in Madison, Wisconsin

2009-11-10T14:06:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-10T12:56:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-09T16:21:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-09T15:37:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-06T15:52:00.000-06:00

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!

2009-11-06T10:26:00.000-06:00

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!

2009-11-05T12:26:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Countdown Clockgreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

Fannie Mae to rent out homes instead of foreclosing

2009-11-05T10:51:00.000-06:00

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

2009-11-03T12:18:00.000-06:00

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

2009-10-30T11:17:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-10-22T13:53:00.000-05:00

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

Upcoming Events in Madison, WI!

2009-10-19T14:16:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-10-16T10:06:00.001-05:00

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!!

2009-10-12T17:30:00.000-05:00

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

2009-10-06T15:17:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-10-05T16:52:00.001-05:00

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

2009-10-02T12:12:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-10-01T10:20:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-30T11:06:00.000-05:00

Thanks for bringing in the tomatoes Marlys!

WalkScore: Free, Awesome, and Helpful!

2009-09-29T16:54:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-25T12:38:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-24T15:27:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-24T15:25:00.000-05:00

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!!

2009-09-24T15:20:00.000-05:00

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

2009-09-11T13:05:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-04T14:17:00.000-05:00

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

2009-09-03T15:13:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-09-01T17:26:00.001-05:00

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

2009-08-27T15:29:00.000-05:00

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

2009-08-21T15:55:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-08-20T13:33:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-08-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

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

2009-08-17T11:39:00.001-05:00

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

2009-08-14T09:34:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-08-13T12:52:00.000-05:00

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

2009-08-13T11:40:00.000-05:00

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

2009-08-12T13:12:00.000-05:00

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/)

Go Mallards!

2009-08-10T10:58:00.000-05:00

The Nicole Charles & Associates Second Annual Client Appreciation Celebration with the Madison Mallard's was a hit! It was warm and sunny, and the Mallards won the game three to one!

Madison, Wis. - August 8, 2009: Alex Rivers dominated on the mound en route to a Mallards' sweep of Eau Claire after a 3-1 win in front of 7,441 at the "Duck Pond" on Saturday night.

Rivers nearly went the distance only to be replaced by Patrick Lala after one hitter in the ninth. He picked up his fourth win of the season after eight strong innings, allowing a run on seven hits while striking out five and walking just two.

"He's what we call a veteran Mallard," Pitching Coach Jason Immekus said of Rivers. "He knows what it takes to get to the playoffs."

"It feels good," Rivers said of his great outing. "We know we need to win the last four games to make the playoffs."

(Article from http://www.mallardsbaseball.com/)

Check out 6141 Jeffers Drive on the West Side!

2009-08-06T11:54:00.000-05:00

1440 square feet
2 car garage
New carpet
Fresh paint
3 bedrooms
1.5 baths
Close to parks and Target
MLS #1566740
Currently listed at $217,500

Fantastically located near schools, parks, Epic, Target, and tons of great west side attractions, this move in ready, 8 year old home is the one you've been waiting for! With brand new carpeting and paint, a fantastic deck with pergola, sunny kitchen and dining area, nicely sized family room wired for Dolby 7.1 surround, and situated on a nicely sized lot in a great neighborhood, this one will be hard to beat! HSA Home Warranty for your piece of mind.

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call Nicole at (608) 513-0021.

Home-Buying Advice from a Recent Home-Buyer

2009-08-05T10:58:00.000-05:00

Sarah, a recent client and first-time home-buyer, answers a few questions about her home buying experience -

Q: What was the hardest part of buying your first home?
A: Reconciling myself to yardwork.
Q: How did you know your new house was "the one"? Were you tempted to keep looking?
A: I had looked at several homes in my price range - enough to know that this one was special. Basically, I was looking for reasons not to buy my house, rather than talking myself into it.

Q: Would you have done anything differently?
A: Nope.

Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about buying their first home?
A: Don't max out your budget with the mortgage - even with very little to do inside or out, I had several big shopping weekends just getting maintenance necessities and bits and pieces to make the house a home.

Q: What surprised you about the process?
A: The loan - don't buy furniture with it, and gift money payments are not a good thing!

Q: What impressed you about your Realtor?
A: She took such good care of me.

Q: How did you know your Realtor was the right one to work with?
A: I trusted her right away - she's so straightforward and I knew she wasn't going to let me make a bad decision.

2009 Sweet Corn Fest in Sun Prairie!

2009-08-03T16:48:00.000-05:00

When:

Thursday, August 20 thru Sunday, August 23

Where:

Angell Park in Sun Prairie, WI

Intersection of Hwy 19 and Hwy N

What:

100,000 Midwesterners eat 70 tons of steamed sweet corn!

Sun Prairie, Wisconsin will host the annual Sweet Corn Festival Thursday, August 20 through Sunday, August 23, 2009 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.

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 for the kids with unlimited rides from 6-10pm for $18.00.Thursday night kicks off the event with the parade down Columbus Street at 6:30 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.

Find out more about Corn Festival memorabilia, sponsors, the craft fair, the parade, and the history of the corn festival by visiting www.sunprairiechamber.com!

FREE Home Buyer Seminar!

2009-07-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

FREE information about home buying - from pre-approval to closing. Join us and learn how to select the right home for you, how much down payment is really required, how financing works, and the role a title company plays. We'll tell you everything you need to know about buying a home!

Register and save a seat at www.nicolecharles.com!

Hosted by Erin Ennis, Home Mortgage Consultant at Wells Fargo and Nicole Charles, REALTOR and Broker Associate at Nicole Charles & Associates of Keller Williams Realty.

Thursday, August 13, 2009, 6:00pm

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. #501 (fifth floor)
Madison, WI 53717

For more information, contact Nicole at (608) 513-0021 or nicolecharles@kw.com

One Green Year: What You Can Do Today

2009-07-29T10:46:00.000-05:00

You could decide to lose weight—again—or this year you could resolve to lighten the load you leave on the planet. To help, we’ve outlined a series of small changes that add up to big results and divvied them up by time frame—tasks you can complete today, in the next week, during the next month and over the course of the next year. Breaking your efforts into smaller, more manageable tasks isn’t a cop-out: By following this plan, each small step adds up to changes that will benefit the health of the planet—and, yes, even your own health—immediately and in years to come.

Food

Instead of having lunch delivered to your office, walk to a nearby restaurant and save take-out containers by dining in. Or bring your own container to the restaurant and have it filled there. At the very least, bring a set of your own silverware and a bottle of your favorite condiment to the office so you can skip the plastic utensils and the little packets of salt, pepper, ketchup and soy sauce.

Transportation

Start making a note of each car trip you take. “Changing your car habits is one of the most dramatic ways to reduce your environmental impact,” says Jodi Helmer, author of The Green Year: 365 Small Things You Can Do to Make a Big Difference ($14.95, Alpha, 2008). Getting a clear picture of exactly how car-dependent you are can help in finding ways to cut back.

Energy

Get a baseline of your current carbon footprint using the reliable online calculators at either safeclimate.net or lowimpactliving.com. Set a goal of how much you’d like to reduce your impact over the coming year—10 percent is a good start. To up the ante, get a likeminded friend or group of friends to make a competition out of it: Send out an email today inviting them to join your year-long challenge.

Everyday Purchases

Buy a calendar and a notebook made out of recycled paper so you can track your consumption throughout the year. In the coming months, you’ll be noting each of the following on your calendar:

• the highest and lowest temperatures at which you set your thermostat each day
• the number of kilowatthours of electricity your household uses each month (it’s listed on your bill)
• the quantity of fuel you buy for home heating each month, whether it’s natural gas or oil
• how many gallons you buy at each trip to the gas station

In the notebook, create tally pages for car trips, trips made by public transportation, and self-powered (walking and biking) trips. Another page can be for waste, especially if you’re going to compare your progress with friends and neighbors. Divide this page into “recycled” and “not recycled” columns, and tally the things you dispose of and the things you recycle—plastic bags, drink containers, etc.— week by week.

(Article by Kate Hanley from http://www.thegreenguide.com/)

New home sales: 'Really good news'

2009-07-27T14:58:00.000-05:00

Sales of newly constructed single family homes rose 11% over May, but median price fell 3%.

By Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: July 27, 2009: 12:14 PM ET

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Sales of newly constructed single-family homes spiked 11% in June to an annualized rate of 384,000 homes, according to a report released Monday.

The gain over May was much greater than expected. A consensus of housing industry analysts had forecast seasonally adjusted sales of 352,000, according to Breifing.com.

However, sales are still 21% below the levels of a year ago, when new homes sold in June at an annualized rate of 488,000, according to the report released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Four years ago, during the height of the housing boom, the sales rate for June was 1,374,000, nearly three-and-a-half times higher than last month.

Still, the report was very positive, according to Peter Morici, an economics professor at the University of Maryland who had forecast June sales to be at the 350,000 level. "That is really good news. Considering what's going on in existing home sales, with all the foreclosure activity sending down home prices, for new homes to jump like that is a good indicator that the economy is bottoming out."

Builders have been more optimistic about market conditions and this report should further buoy their spirits. An index of builder confidence from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) rose to 17 this month after languishing in single-digit territory.

In June, they began building single-family housing units at an annualized rate of 470,000, a 14.4% jump over May.

Pat Newport, a housing industry analyst for IHS Global Insight, also deemed the report very good news -- but is uncertain how Obama's $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers will affect the longer view.

"I only wonder how much of the increase is coming from rising demand from new homebuyers," he said. "The tax credit is boosting demand, but what will happen when it goes away in December?"

Prices and inventory
The median price paid for a house sold in June 2009 was down about 3% to $206,200; the mean price was $276,900.

By the end of the month, the inventory of new homes had dropped to 281,000, an 8.8 month supply at current rates of sale. Last month, there were enough homes on the market to last 10.2 months at that rate.

"They have to clean out that stock to get building again," said Morici.

"Normal" new home inventory is about 300,000, according to Newport, which we're already below. But ,he added, that the median time to sell a home is at an all-time high of 11.8 months.

"That tells you it's still very hard to sell a new home," he said.

Much of that struggle is because the housing stock is concentrated in exurbs -- otherwise known as McMansions far away from work. "Inventories are misaligned," said Morici, who likened the situation to the auto industry being overstocked with large trucks and SUVs instead of fuel efficient cars.

"There'll be a shift from far-out to closer-in and from bigger to smaller," he said. But builders will have a hard time selling those "white elephants" and they'll languish on the market, he predicted.

The excess inventory also tend to be concentrated in just a few markets, such as California, southern Florida, Las Vegas and Arizona, according to Bernard Markstein, a senior vice president and economist with the National Association of Home Builders.

"[In most other parts of the country] inventory has been worked down to the point where if you want to buy a new home, it will probably have to be built," he said.

Perhaps the best news is that home construction may be ready to once again boost the economy again. "The construction-put-in-place numbers that come out next month will show that housing is starting to add to the GDP," said Newport. "It's been nothing but a drag on growth lately."

With new home inventory more in balance, consumers may no longer be able to wring extras, such as high-end appliances and even swimming pools, out of builders. "People are going to find builders are not going to be quick to make concessions," Markstein said. "The time for getting deals is going away."

(Article from http://www.cnnmoney.com/)

Madison: The Bikeable City

2009-07-27T12:45:00.000-05:00

Wisconsin State Finals Barrel Horse Races 2009 at Alliant Energy Center

2009-07-27T10:59:00.000-05:00

Come watch this exciting rodeo event where talented horse riders maneuver their horses around a maze of barrels in the fastest time! Twelve winners at the WI State Finals will receive invitations to compete in the NBHA World Championships in Augusta, Georgia on October 26-31.

When:

July 30th, 2009 through August 2, 2009

Where:
Arena at the Alliant Energy Center

1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713

Contact:

Voice: 608-267-3976
Email: aec@alliantenergycenter.com

(Photograph from http://www.horseracingcorner.com/)

2009 Red Power Round Up

2009-07-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

Now THIS is Wisconsin. Come see farm equipment collections belonging to the International Harvester Collectors Club of Wisconsin at the 2009 "Red Power Round Up," July 23rd through 25th at Willow Island, Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin.

Schedule highlights:

Friday
• 10:00 am - "Historic Barns of Wisconsin" in the Expo Center
• 10:30 am - "Sunbonnet Sue Talks Quilting History" in the Expo Center
• 1:00 pm - "Care and Preservation of Family Photos" in the Expo Center
• 2:00 pm - "Hoops and Bustles Fashion Show" in the Expo Center
• 3:15 pm - "Michael Perry: Reading and Book Signing" in the Arena

Saturday
• 10:00 am - "Researching Your Family History" in the Expo Center
• 10:30 am - "Plows and Plowing" in the Expo Center
• 11:00 am - "Tractor Parade" on Willow Island (don't miss this!!!)
• 1:30 pm - "Auction" in the Expo Center

(for a complete list of events click here)

What to Bring to Concerts on the Square

2009-07-22T15:53:00.000-05:00

There are a few essential items to bring to Concerts on the Square to ensure you have a fantasic time, and you can make one stop at Target to get all of them:

1. A table that is short enough to not block the view of anyone behind you. Look for it at Target: "Coleman Dynasty 30in. x 60in. Folding Table"

2. A blanket to sit on that is easy to fold up after the concert. Look for it at Target: Highline Luxury Picnic Blanket (Remember: You aren't allowed to put down blankets on the square until after 3pm, but by 4 the grounds are almost full!)

3. A comfy back support, because everyone else will wish they had one. Look for it at Target: "Picnic Time Metro Portable Reclining Seat"

4. A wine chiller to keep your Chardonnay at the perfect temperature. Look for it at Target: "Caddy-O Wine Chiller Insert"

5. A portable picnic basket to make it easy to bring treats along. Look for it at Target: "Banana Leaf Picnic Basket"

6. A great book to read while you listen to the orchestra and enjoy the breeze. Look for it at Target: "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain"

(All images from http://www.target.com/)

Concerts on the Square in Madison

2009-07-22T15:15:00.000-05:00

Come see the 26th Annual Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra performance led by Maestro Andrew Sewell at Concerts on The Square! Only two shows left!

Wednesday, July 22nd, 7 pm
"Spanish Nights"
Guest Artist, Javier Calderon, guitar

Wednesday, July 29th, 7 pm
"Maverick Marimba"

Guest Artist, Kevin Bobo, marimba

Have You Ever Toured the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison?

2009-07-22T09:37:00.001-05:00

(Images from James T. Potter's photo collection of the Wisconsin State Capitol, courtesy of the Wisconsin Historical Society at http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/. Check out the rest of James T. Potter's images here.)

Ten Thrift Stores on Madison's West Side

2009-07-21T15:26:00.000-05:00

Maybe you're on a budget, maybe you want to take a stab at being "green," or maybe you're looking for a shabby-chic retro accent for the mantle in the family room. Shopping second-hand can be an economical, environmental, and cool way to furnish your surroundings, so here are ten thirft stores to check out on Madison's west side.

Hospice Care Thrift Store‎
122 Junction Rd, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 833-4556‎
Savers {my personal favorite!}‎
7333 W Towne Way, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 827-9011‎
Saint Vincent De Paul
4293 W Beltline Hwy, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 278-2924‎
Goodwill‎
4530 Verona Rd, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 271-4687‎
Once Upon A Child
706 S Gammon Rd, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 276-8076‎
Plato's Closet
6733 Odana Rd, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 662-7410‎
Saint Vincent De Paul
1900 S Park St, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 250-6370‎
The Pink Poodle‎
6017 Odana Road, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 276-7467‎
St Vincent De Paul
1109 Jonathon Dr, Madison, WI‎ - (608) 278-2920‎
Puttin' On the Ritz
2532 Allen Blvd, Middleton, WI‎ - (608) 831-7480‎

Ten Kitchen Remodeling Features to Add Value to Your Home

2009-07-21T15:02:00.000-05:00

Kitchen updates rank among the most popular home improvements. The reason? An excellent return on the investment. A renovated kitchen can deliver better storage, enhanced ergonomics, and higher resale value. Here are 10 trends to track when planning your remodeling project.

1. Built-in Coffee CenterThe latest models deliver customized cups of coffee, espresso, and cappuccino with the press of a button. Sleek, built-in designs save valuable counter space. Miele's CVA coffee system is shown here.

2. Sculptural Stove HoodOnce boxy and bland, stove hoods are taking center stage with curvy, sculptural shapes. The latest designs, like this wall-mount hood from Miele, combine stainless steel with new materials, such as treated glass. Some also incorporate features such as an overhead spice rack.

3. 21st Century Cabinetry Cabinets have gone minimal and modern with floating units, systems concealed behind sliding doors, touch-latch cabinet fronts that eliminate hardware, and innovative new surfaces, such as aluminum, bamboo, high-gloss lacquer, or semitranslucent glass. Bosch created the model kitchen shown here.

4. Dual-Fuel Ranges Culinarians used to debate the relative merits of electric vs. gas. Major manufacturers offer professional-quality ranges that combine the power of a gas cooktop with the even performance of an electric one. Styles can range from stainless steel to old-fashioned cast iron, like this Six-Four range in claret enamel finish by AGA.

5. Appliances that PopRetro kitchen accoutrements in colors such as red, yellow, and cobalt blue inject today's kitchens with a shot of color therapy. This is an OrangeX juicer in tangerine from Williams-Sonoma.

6. Italian Cooking GadgetsMany of today's most coveted kitchen accessories carry an Italian theme, such as state-of-the-art cappuccino makers, stainless steel truffle shavers, and industrial-quality gelato makers. The latest must-have: a panini grill, such as this Krups model, for cooking Italian-style hot pressed sandwiches.

7. Computerized Appliances Appliances of the next generation will be computer-regulated, interactive, cyber-smart, and multifunctional. One of the first prototypes out of the gate is Samsung's HomePAD refrigerator, which features Internet capabilities, e-mail, messaging, and TV/DVD features.

8. Designer Dishwashers High-end dishwasher manufacturers like Fisher & Paykel now offer attractive versions, concealed by cabinet fronts, that both wash and store dishes without the need for transfer. Another brand holds up to 20 place settings within a compact unit, making the cleanup of large dinner parties virtually effortless.

9. Custom Countertops Counters are going from common to couture with custom touches such as wooden butcher blocks and marble pastry slab inserts. Homeowners are mixing materials, such as concrete embedded with bits of glass and metal. Stone, such as soapstone and marble, remains a popular countertop material. Likewise, stainless steel, sealed concrete, engineered quartz (which has many of the advantages of granite without the maintenance requirements), and woods, such as mahogany, are gaining ground. The model at left is by Boffi.

10. Sleek Wine Refrigeration The latest offerings in wine refrigerators include freestanding models that hold up to 147 bottles, as well as smaller attached units complete with built-in refrigerator drawers. Models equipped with microprocessors provide benefits such as touchpad control and a digital cooling system that maintains ideal temperature and humidity levels in two separate zones, allowing for the proper storage of both red and white wines. A Jenn-Air built-in wine chiller is shown here.

(Article and Pictures from http://www.myhomeideas.com/)

How to Save on Energy Bills

2009-07-20T12:37:00.000-05:00

I found this helpful and realistic article on www.thisoldhouse.com. Some of these tips on how to cut down your energy bill are free, but I like that they give real cost estimates and payback times on the changes that you should make that aren't free.

1. Choke Your Chimney

Cost: Free.
Benefits: A tightly closed damper prevents up to 8% of furnace-heated air from going up the chimney.
Payback time: Immediate.

Sure, it's nostalgia-inducing and all, but when it comes down to it, your fireplace is terribly—make that laughably—inefficient. According to the Department of Energy, a lit fireplace sucks about 24,000 cubic feet of furnace-heated air up your chimney each hour. Bonus: It's replaced by cold air that comes in the opposite direction through the same opening, causing your furnace to work extra hard to keep your house toasty. Still, we love gathering round the hearth as much as the next guy. Just remember to turn the thermostat down a little when you use it. Also, crack a window in the room where the fireplace is located and then close the door, so it doesn't suck too much warm air from the rest of the house. And remember to close your damper when it’s not in use.

2. Seal Air Leaks

Cost: $30 to $50 for materials.
Benefits: Save 10% or more - $50 to $170 a year - on heating bills.
Payback time: Six months to one year.

Add up all those overlooked cracks, gaps, and openings around your windows, doors, plumbing, and wiring, and you may find your house has a hole the size of a Mack truck. Seal it up, and you'll save more than 10 percent on your heating bills. Start by caulking or weatherstripping around windows. For added comfort, pick up a product such as the 3M Indoor Window Kit at the hardware store. Resembling Saran wrap, the plastic sheet costs about $20 and can be discreetly stretched over windows using double-sided tape, blow-dried for a tight fit, and peeled off come springtime. It can increase a single-paned window's R-value by up to 90 percent. Fill in cracks around door frames with caulk, and while you're at it, install a screw-on or adhesive-backed door sweep. Use expanding-foam sealants to fill in larger gaps around plumbing and electrical work, especially where pipes enter your house through exterior walls. Tackle energy suckers in overlooked places, too—like exterior wall sockets and switches. You can block them up using fitted insulation pads. Just unscrew the switch plates and pop the pads into place.

3. Show Your Heating System Some Love

Cost: $75 to $100 for the tune-up. A gallon of mastic duct sealant costs $25; foil-backed tape costs about $7 a roll.
Benefits: Furnace tune-ups save up to 10% or more on heating bills; sealing ductwork reduces air leakage by 15% and heating bills from 3% to 10%.
Payback time: One heating session.

Soot buildup, dusty or poorly lubricated fans, flickering pilot lights, and loose fan belts can add hundreds to your heating costs each year. Getting your furnace tuned up regularly by a heating contractor can do wonders for both your wallet and your overall comfort. Natural gas–powered systems should be serviced every two to three years, while oil-fired units need a tune-up every year, since they burn dirtier. To make your system even more efficient, prevent heated air from leaking into your attic or crawl spaces by sealing ductwork with mastic duct sealant—a nontoxic, paint-on material—or foil-backed tape. Doing so will reduce your home's air leakage and could save you a bundle in heating and cooling bills.

4. Give In to Energy Star

Cost: Energy Star fridges start at around $399 for a top-mount and $899 for a side-by-side. Clothes washers cost $600 and up and dishwashers start at around $230.
Benefits: Save $80 per year in energy costs for the fridge, $110 annually on utility costs for the clothes washer, and $30 a year on utilities for the dishwasher.
Payback time: About five years for the fridge, seven to eight years for the clothes washer, and eight years for the dishwasher.

We spend 20 percent of our electricity bills running our appliances. But we can shrink that number dramatically by replacing them with fridges, clothes washers, and dishwashers that qualify for the Energy Star. Energy Star fridges, available from major manufacturers such as GE and Frigidaire, use half as much energy as those manufactured 15 years ago and 15 percent less than new non–Energy Star models. Rated dishwashers exceed current federal energy standards by 41 percent, while Energy Star clothes washers are 40 percent more efficient than conventional models.

5. Make Your Attic More Cush

Cost: About $300 for added insulation.
Benefits: Save 30% on energy bills.
Payback time: Three to five years.

The Department of Energy tells us you can reduce your heating and cooling needs by 30 percent just by adding a few hundred bucks' worth of new insulation. This is especially true if your house is more than 25 years old, from the time before building codes became more mindful of energy efficiency, and you haven't added any new batts yet. We tend to focus on the attic, but it's also wise to see how much insulation you have in crawl spaces, ceilings, basement walls, and around recessed lighting fixtures (just make sure those fixtures are designed for direct insulation contact). Check that your R-value is right for the climate where you live. In general, R-values should run between R-22 and R-49 in the attic, less in other spots.

6. Embrace the Pellet Stove

Cost: A Kozi Model 100 pellet stove costs about $2,000. Pellets cost $6 for a 40 lbs. bag.
Benefits: 50% or more off heating bills.
Payback time: Three to five years.

It's not getting any cheaper to heat your house with gas or oil. But pellets—well, that's another story. Clean-burning pellet stoves can drastically cut your home heating costs. They look like wood-burning stoves but are fueled by small pellets made from superconcentrated sawdust. Pour them into the stove's hopper, and they're fed automatically into a burn chamber; a fan blows the hot air into your house. There are freestanding models as well as fireplace inserts, which vent through a stainless-steel lining that runs up your chimney.

7. Take Cheaper Showers

Cost: An energy-efficient electric water heater runs around $750 installed.
Benefits: Save up to 20% on water heating bills.
Payback time: Three to four years.

Next time you take a shower, remember this: Heating water accounts for up to 11 percent of our utility bills. If your water heater is more than a decade old, that number could be even greater. Switching it out for a new, more efficient electric storage model could save you 10 to 20 percent on heating bills. You might also think about gas and tankless units, which save 30 and 40 percent on water heating, respectively. And let's not forget solar water heaters. At $3,500 to $4,800 installed, they're more expensive than conventional heaters, but they have longer lives (about 20 years) and pay for themselves in energy savings in about half that time. If you're not ready to buy a new water heater just yet, ratchet up your existing unit's efficiency with a water-heater blanket. It costs just 15 bucks and will save you between 4 and 9 percent on your heating bills.

8. Find Some Perfect Storm Windows

Cost: $1,200 for a dozen.
Benefits: Reduce heat loss by 25% or more. Easy to install, and cheaper than replacement windows.
Payback time: Two to five years.

Did you know that 10 to 25 percent of your heating and cooling costs might be flying right out your windows? If you're not quite ready to fork out the $12,000 or more you'll need to put in new, high-efficiency units, then installing storm windows is your best option. Triple-track windows—they hold two glass sash and one screen that slide up and down on separate tracks—from Larson Manufacturing cost about $100 each and can reduce heat loss through your existing windows by 25 percent (even more if fitted over inefficient single-pane windows). They may not be as pretty as replacement windows, but sometimes it's better to feel good than look good.

9. Address the Beast in the Basement

Cost: $2,000 to $3,000
Benefits: Increased energy savings and a quieter, more comfortable home.
Payback time: Two to five years.

If you've tried all of the energy-saving recommendations above but still find your house too cold and inefficient, then maybe—just maybe—it's time to consider replacing your furnace. The average life span for a gas—or oil-fired unit is between 15 and 20 years. Along with fridges and dishwashers, Energy Star also certifies furnaces from companies such as Bryant, Carrier, and York, among many others. Most are at least 15 percent more efficient than standard models and can save you up to 20 percent on heating costs. Not sure if it's worth the money? Add up your fuel bills for last winter, then multiply that sum by 20 percent. Divide the result into the cost of buying and installing the new system, about $3,000 or so, and you'll see how many years it will take to recoup your investment.

10. Sell Your House

Cost: 1% to 3% more on construction costs.
Benefits: The most energy-efficient home on your block.
Payback time: Immediate.

That is, as long as any new pad you buy is certified by Energy Star. These newly constructed homes meet the performance standards established by the EPA and Department of Energy, consuming 30 percent less energy than standard homes, thanks to features such as enhanced insulation levels, high-performance windows, air sealing and ventilation, and high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment. If you already have a building plan worked out for your new home, then making the upgrades for Energy Star certification costs just 1 to 3 percent more but pays for itself immediately. According to Energy Star, their upgrades add just $10 to $15 per month to your mortgage payment but save you around $25 to $45 per month on your utility bills.

(Information from http://www.thisoldhouse.com/

Illustration from http://www.liberty-news.com/ by Dan Wasserman)

Live Like Lindsay Lohan - FOR LESS!

2009-07-13T10:18:00.000-05:00

"You're looking inside Lindsay Lohan's former Manhattan pied a terre. The asking price for this 40th floor apartment in the Atelier building is $1.25 million. The Atelier's amenities include a marble lobby, basketball and volleyball courts, a rooftop lounge, sun deck, fitness and yoga center and indoor swimming pool, Luxist.com reports. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment features floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Empire State Building, according to NBC New York. Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo reportedly own a place in this building as well."

You can bring many of these Lindsay Lohan'esque features into your own home by making one quick stop at IKEA!

IKEA 365+ RISP - Duvet cover and pillowcase(s)
Get this duvet cover!

FARUM - Rug
Get this rug!

KAFFE - Coffee/ tea maker
Get this coffee maker!

MALM - Bedroom Storage Series
Get this bedroom storage!

ERIKSLUND - Picture
Get this frame!

HUSVIK - Work lamp
Get this lamp!

BÅGVIK - Single lever kitchen faucet
Get this faucet!

TIRUP - Swivel chair
Get this chair!

(Photos and article from www.nydailynews.com. Below photos from www.ikea.com)

Home Art for Sale on Etsy.com!

2009-07-10T09:14:00.000-05:00

"Houses 1" by carambatack - Buy it here

"Little Strawberry House" by Elegant Snobbery - Buy it here

"Little Petite Cottage in the Forest" by jellybeans - Buy it here

"The Neighborhood" by ashleyg - Buy it here

"White House Lighthouse" by AliceinParis - Buy it here

"Not Quite a Beginning Place" by melissammarch - Buy it here

"Row Houses" by jenskelley - Buy it here

"The Golden House" by study - Buy it here

Our New Ad!

2009-07-09T08:41:00.001-05:00

Check out our new ad in the August 1st Brava magazine!!
(Visit www.bravamagazine.com)

Things to Look for when Buying a House

2009-07-07T15:49:00.000-05:00

If you're thinking about buying a new (or old!) home, this list of the "Top Things to Look for When Buying a Home" can help to get your search off to the right start. While the number of rooms, condition of the kitchen, and size of the yard are important, there are other things to consider before you make an offer.

1) Location, Location, Location
They say that the 3 most important things to think about when buying are home are location, location, location. You can live with almost any imperfection in a home if you love the neighborhood and your neighbors. You can change almost everything else. But, once bought, you cannot change your home's location. When you go house hunting, consider any potential home's proximity to your work, the charm of the neighborhood, how the home is situated on the lot, ease of access, noise from neighbors, traffic, or pets, and access to parks, shopping, schools, and public transportation.

2) Situation Factors
Beyond location, look at the particular site of the home. If the home is on a hill does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to climb? Do neighbors' windows look directly into the home? Is the yard suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is access to the property safe regarding driveway elevation, stairs up to (or down to) the front door?

3) Check Out the Neighborhood
Be sure the neighborhood, and not just the house, meets your expectations. They say that you should own the smallest home in the nicest neighborhood that you can afford. You'll have a great view! Drive around on week days and weekends, during the day and in the evening. Are homes in the neighborhood consistent in size and features? Do the neighbors keep the yards clean and tidy or are there old cars and trash around? Is the neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run, or bike and are there children playing in the yards?

4) Consider a Home's Curb Appeal
Your home should reflect your lifestyle. Do you live a laid-back life? Then you might not want a formal Victorian or Tudor style home. Something simpler and more contemporary might be in order. Look at the exterior features. A brick home is easier to maintain, unless you live in an earthquake-prone area! Is the roof in good condition? Is the landscaping attractive and are the sidewalks leading to the home safe?

5) Size and Floor Plan
You may be thinking about buying your dream home. But is your dream home impractical? Do you really need 4 bedrooms and 4 baths when you live alone? A large home can give you the extra space you've always wanted for a home office or crafts or art projects. But you'll pay higher heating bills and have higher taxes. It will take more furniture to furnish and money to decorate. Think about how the new home space will be used and whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.

6) Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you really need, and only look at homes that meet your criteria. It would be a shame to fall in love with a cozy, charming cottage that just isn't big enough. An extra bedroom is always a plus, as it can be used for a home office, craft studio, or guest room. If you think you'll be adding more room later, be sure to consult an architect who can advise you on space planning, lot usage and city regulations.

7) The Kitchen
If the kitchen is the heart of your home, don't settle for a home with a kitchen that just won't work. You can always remodel, but it's very costly. Can you just replace cabinet faces and countertops? Will an inexpensive makeover be sufficient? Don't worry about appliances, as they can usually be easily replaced.

8) Closets and Storage
Older homes tend to have little closets and not a lot of storage space. If you have lots of sports equipment, craft supplies, out-of-season clothes, and holiday decorations, be sure you know where it will go in your new home. Newer homes tend to have big closets and lots of storage. You can always add storage space, but you might have to sacrifice living space in your rooms.

9) Windows and Lighting
Do you love a bright sunny room or do you love privacy? Look at a home with light and sunshine in mind. Look at the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures. Will they accommodate your lighting needs? Is there recessed lighting in the kitchen, cove lighting in the family room and a lovely chandelier in the dining room? If not, you can add them later, but it's nice to have it in place when you move in.

10) Finishing Touches
Sometimes the simplest home looks spectacular because of the installation of moldings, hardware and a fireplace. If these elements are important to you, look for them while house hunting or be ready to add them after you move in.

If you keep these specific elements of a home in mind, your house hunting will be more successful, and you'll likely end up with the home of your dreams -- for now, that is!

(Article from http://www.about.com/)

Bill Gates Buys Historic Wyoming Ranch

2009-07-07T14:39:00.000-05:00

Bill Gates, the world’s richest man, has reportedly purchased Irma Lake Lodge, a famous Wyoming ranch once owned by William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, who may have been one of the earliest successful entrepreneurs. After serving in the U.S. Army, Cody was hired to hunt bison and scout Indians and then he started his famous “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West” show where Annie Oakley and Sitting Bull performed among other notable characters of the Old West.

Cody established Irma Lake Lodge as his own personal hunting retreat. It is a 492-acre property named after Cody’s youngest daughter, Irma, and is located about 20 miles outside of Cody, WY. The lodge is virtually secluded and surrounded by wilderness and forest lands since it sits next to Shoshone National Forest and nearby Washakie Wilderness. It is approximately 50 miles from Yellowstone National Park.

The final purchase price is unknown at this time, although it was originally listed at $12 million several years ago and has received several price cuts — coming all the way down to a listing price of $8.9 million before Gates bought the ranch.

Only two people have owned the ranch since Cody: the William R. Coe family, who purchased it from Cody in 1911 and owned it for 75 years, and then Minnesota’s Roger Hollander. And now, another famous Bill takes over.

(Article by Diane Tuman from www.zillow.com)

Best Mini Golf Holes in Madison

2009-07-06T11:35:00.000-05:00

What are the best mini golf holes in Madison? Here's a hole-by-hole breakdown of the best 18 holes in the area, as played by Capital Times sportswriter Rob Schultz and prep golfers Tim McCormick and Brad O'Loughlin in a single, 90-plus-degrees day last week. Their scores are included.

1) Little Amerricka - 7th hole

It requires the initial putt to travel up a ramp into one of three holes. Balls that travel down the center or left-side holes come out of a chute toward the final hole. Balls that travel down the chute under the right-side hole come out in a maze on the opposite side of the final hole.
TM 3, BO 3, RS 3.

2) Little Amerricka - 11th hole
We had to hit our putts uphill to a house. Our balls popped out to the left of the house to one of two circular areas. A lane formed between the circles that led to the hole.
TM 3, BO 3, RS 3.

3) Bogey's - 2nd hole
It's a baseball stadium completed in the colors of the Milwaukee Brewers. The initial putt has to traverse through four baseball bats to the hole. I made the day's first hole-in-one here.
TM 2, BO 3, RS 1.

4) Bogey's - 6th hole
It's a hockey theme and we had to putt our balls between two hockey sticks to an elevated hole sandwiched between four pucks. I made another hole-in-one.
TM 3, BO 2, RS 1.

5) Bogey's - 7th hole
Bowling theme. The fairway traversed between simulated gutters and bowling pins were located in front of, and on each side of, the hole. McCormick sent his putt up one gutter, banked it off the bricks and off a pin to the hole for his first ace of the day.
TM 1, BO 2, RS 2.

6) Long Shot - 2nd hole
The initial shot requires the putt to travel past bumper pool bumpers. All of us hit a bumper and struggled.
TM 3, BO 4, RS 3.

7) Swissland - 2nd hole
There are three chutes you must send your ball through that go in different directions. The center one sends the ball closest to the hole.
TM 4, BO 4, RS 3.

8) Swissland - 6th hole
Dogleg left with four jagged boulders that get in the way of putts.
TM 2, BO 3, RS 4.

9) Swissland - 10th hole
Swiss cheese theme. We had to putt through one of the holes in the cheese, which has a chute that sends the ball toward the hole.
TM 2, BO 3, RS 4.

10) Swissland - 12th hole
Putts must traverse three hills with real sand traps guarding the right side. Very long hole.
TM 3, BO 2, RS 3.

11) Vitense's "Wisconsin Course" - 5th hole
"Camp Bucky" is complete with a UW theme. It's a major complex where your initial shot must find a hole in a log that sends it down a long chute toward the hole.
TM 2, BO 3, RS 2.

12) Vitense's "Wisconsin Course" - 7th hole
"Vitense Park" includes a start at the highest point on the course. The initial putt must find a hole just four feet from the start. It feeds down a chute and comes out 15 feet below toward the finishing hole. Slides galore for kids on this hole.
TM 4, BO 4, RS 2.

13) Vitense's "Wisconsin Course" - 14th hole
"Golf Ball Fishing" has a windmill on it. A must for the top 18.
TM 3, BO 2, RS 3.

14) Vitense's "California Course" - 2nd hole
"Wishing You Well" finishes behind where you start. A putt must fall into a wishing well that spirals the ball down a chute and sends it out toward the hole.
TM 3, BO 3, RS 3.

15) Vitense's "California Course" - 12th hole
"Misty Beach" has three fairways, logs and a whale in the water next to it. It also has a mister to cool off golfers on hot days.
TM 3, BO 3, RS 4.

16) Vitense's "Madison Course" - 4th hole
"Governor's Mansion" requires a putt to travel under and through one corner of the mansion and then around flower beds and water to reach the hole.
TM 3, BO 2, RS 3.

17) Vitense's "Madison Course" - 8th hole
"Monona Terrace" is one of two glow-in-the-dark holes. This one is short and looks simple, but it's easy to mess up and make a big number. O'Loughlin made a 6 here and it cost him a chance to win the match.
TM 2, BO 6, RS 3.

18) Vitense's "Madison Course" - 16th hole

"Field House and Camp Randall" forces the player to either send a putt around a skinny ramp that ships the ball toward the hole or under the Field House and over Camp Randall's football field toward the hole.
TM 3, BO 2, RS 3.

Final scorecard--McCormick won with a 49, followed by Schultz (50) and O'Loughlin (54).

(Information from http://www.77square.com/, photo by dcmarch, flickr)

Realtor Reality TV starring Sarah Bandy

2009-07-02T17:37:00.000-05:00

Sweeeeeet! We love this book too!

Fedua "Sarah" Bandy, a Realtor in Colts Neck, N.J., has launched an online video series to promote her goal of $1 million in net revenue from sales commissions in one year.

Borrowing ideas from the pages of "The Millionaire Real Estate Agent," a book by Keller Williams founder Gary Keller, Bandy plans to send out 16,000 direct-mail pieces per month to a list of people selected from a particular geography and demography.

According to Keller's research, marketing to 50 people 12 times per year will result in at least one sale. Her Web site names a few sponsors for her mission, including HomeGain, a lead-generation company, and Real Estate Tomato, a technology and consulting company.

(Article from InMan.com)

Our Latest Design

2009-07-02T17:08:00.001-05:00

A sneak peek at our Client Appreciation event Save the Date postcard. Go Mallards!

9406 Lost Meadow Rd. - FOR SALE!

2009-07-02T16:51:00.000-05:00

Absolutely breathtaking, and better than new! This stunning four bedroom home in popular Sauk Heights is the one you’ve been waiting for! Walk into a soaring two story foyer with hickory hardwood floors, beautiful kitchen with solid surface counters, stainless appliances, and beautiful stone surround fireplace. The huge master suite is accented with tray ceilings and has a spa-like master bath with a jetted soaking tub and separate shower. Huge bedrooms, professional landscaping... too much to list!

Currently listed at $349,900.

For more information or to set up a showing, call Nicole at (608) 513-0021

Ways to Make Home Staging Easy

2009-07-02T16:22:00.000-05:00

"So Why Should I Buy a Home Now?"

2009-07-02T09:24:00.000-05:00

Buying a home is one of the most exciting and rewarding things you can do, but it doesn't just happen over night. You'll discover the perfect for-sale home for you, place an offer, get approved with your lender, negotiate a counter offer, trudge through the paperwork, and then of course load and unload the moving truck. With an expert Realtor like Nicole Charles there as a guide, your home-buying ride can be a smooth one, but at best it will be about a two month process. For some buyers, even longer.

In order to take advantage of the $8,000 First Time Home Buyer tax credit, you must close on your new home by November 30, 2009. That gives those of you who are considering buying a new home a short window of oppurtunity. So, get started:

Step #1: Call Nicole Charles at (608) 513-0021.

Inspiring Photographer of the Week: Russell Lee

2009-07-01T22:42:00.000-05:00

Pie Town, New Mexico
Series by Russell Lee
October of 1940

(Images from Library of Congress Prints and Photographs)

Arranging Furniture to Maximize Space for Summer

2009-06-30T15:46:00.000-05:00

During warm-weather months, you have a primitive urge to clean up and re-arrange your living space. Just about everyone would like to have more living space, but it’s a challenge for most people to be ruthless when cleaning out their living area (or closets). But the results are a more serene and peaceful environment that will soothe you when you open your door.

Being tough is easier when you know you are giving away items to a charitable organization, and that someone in need will make good use of them; or, that you’ll make a little money by selling them. Live by the rule: reduce, resell, and recycle.

Lauren Wilkins, an Interior Design instructor at The Art Institute of New York City, says summer is prime time for entertaining, so lighten the feel of your environment. She suggests having small occasional tables, benches or stools to pull out of the closet when company comes. Scale is important; remove a big table and add nesting tables.

Brightening up the color scheme is simple and inexpensive. Vibrant colors are summery, or if you prefer, cool colors can create a serene environment — think of the blues and aquas of the ocean, a lake or a pool. “The heavy objects like major pieces of furniture will stay, but pillows, throws and light-weight curtains can be bought very inexpensively, and can change the tone of the room," Wilkins says. "The dark colors of fall — burgundy, brown, deep olive — are switched to bright florals, stripes or light solids. These are inexpensive but effective changes.”

LaToya Nelson, also an interior design instructor at The Art Institute of New York City emphasizes sustainability: She says, “Help the environment by making sure the sun doesn’t blaze through the windows leading to an increase in air conditioning use. Window treatments can help. They contribute to the aesthetic environment but also act as thermal barriers by reducing the direct impact of the sun,” she says.

“If you have direct southern exposure, protect the room,” Nelson says. “Eco-friendly products utilizing rapidly renewable or recycled materials may enhance the interior atmosphere by connecting the interior environment with nature. And of course, bringing plants inside is a way of bringing the outside in.”

Both instructors agree that this season it can be more than furniture you rearrange — it can be your attitude and awareness of nature and its harmonious relationship with your home space.

(Article from www.artbistro.com)

Cool Camping Gadget: "Notebook Grill"

2009-06-30T09:43:00.000-05:00

If you’re a camper looking for a better, more portable way to bring along a BBQ grill to that campout or to the beach without cooking over a live campfire, you may want to try this “Notebook” BBQ grill by HotSpot.
Built like a folding chair, but with a handle like a briefcase, this grill is made of sturdy metal and comes with a built in grill rack. Grillers simply unfold it, fill it with charcoal or wood, and light'er up. And the Notebook grill is far better than those cheap temporary models made out of bakers aluminum which can be tossed away afterward, but are so fragile they bend out of shape - not to mention meat that sticks to the chicken wire style grill rack.

The Notebook Grill is a real grill that you can use over and over, and yet fold and put away in the back of the pickup truck.

Buy it on Amazon here.

(Article from www.coolest-gadgets.com)

How A Room's Paint Color Can Affect Your Mood

2009-06-30T08:57:00.000-05:00

Before you pick up that paint brush or roller, read through our color psychology information. It just might help you set the appropriate mood for your indoor space.

• Red packs a wallop, physiologically speaking, increasing blood pressure, heartbeat and energy in most people. It instills feelings of intimacy and passion. Red also increases the appetite, which explains why it is used so often in restaurants, and why it can be a good choice for a formal dining room.

• Orange, like red, tends to warm a room, but in a more friendly and welcoming way. As a result, paints in various shades and tints of orange work well in living rooms and family rooms.

• Yellow is also warm and welcoming, but it is more attention-getting than either red or orange. For this reason, it is a good paint color to use in poorly lit foyers or dark hallways.

• Blue, which is part of the cool color palette, makes us feel calm and tranquil, so it is ideal for use in bedrooms. But since blue works as an appetite suppressant (perhaps because there are few blue foods) it is not the best option for a dining room ... unless you're on a diet.

• Green is another relaxing color that is much more versatile than blue. Light greens are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms; midtones are good for kitchens and dining rooms (many foods are green). Also, because green is calming, it is often used in hospitals, workplaces and schools.

• Violet is a tricky color, psychologically speaking. Many adults dislike purples, but are fond of the rose family, which can work in many rooms, including dining rooms, bedrooms and libraries. Young children, on the other hand, respond favorably to violet, so this color can be used successfully in children's bedrooms and play areas.

These general guidelines are a good starting point in your search for a paint color. But remember that color choice is a very personal matter. You're the one who has to live with your new paint color, so choose a hue that suits you, your family and your lifestyle.

(Information from "The Impact of Paint Color On Your Living Space" by Debbie Zimmer of The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute. Image from www.realsimple.com by Hallie Burton.)