Real Estate Humor

Ha!

Where to Buy Fresh Turkeys in Madison, Wisconsin

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

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

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

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

1. 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.
2. Our listings sell in about one third of the time than the average listing in the area!
3. Nicole’s expert negotiation skills ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible with your home sale or purchase.
4. 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.
5. 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

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!

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!

Fannie Mae to rent out homes instead of foreclosing

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

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

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!

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

Upcoming Events in Madison, WI!

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!

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!!

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

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!

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

1. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line two 15x10x1-inch pans with cooking parchment paper.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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

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!

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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!

Thanks for bringing in the tomatoes Marlys!

WalkScore: Free, Awesome, and Helpful!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!!

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

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!

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

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 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/.