April 24, 2009

Today’s Buyer: Smarter, Sharper, and Yes, Sincere

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Janis Hartley

There’s a whole new look to today’s buyers: they are smarter, sharper and yes, very sincere about wanting the very best value possible. Given that the economy is seeing numbers unseen in the last three decades in terms of unemployment, the drop in the stock market and tremendous decrease in savings and retirement accounts, today’s buyers are looking for exceptional value.

Sellers, who may not be used to blunt questions, are finding that buyers want clear and direct answers. As a REALTOR®, I am hearing more buyers asking about a property’s past sales history, list of recent improvements, recent sold comparables, and historical sales perspectives. Sellers should welcome questions: they are often an indication of a strong, savvy buyer who is determined to buyer smart. With more than double the normal market inventory currently listed in Walworth County, sellers face strong competition. There’s a common adage that the buyer who asks questions, is an interested and motivated buyer. So don’t worry about the questions – be prepared with answers!

For more answers about the local real estate market, contact me at www.SellingLakeGeneva.com. You can also follow me on Twitter.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



April 23, 2009

Geneva National Builder Gets the “Green Light”

Posted to Geneva National, Janis Hartley

AMC Construction, builder of Foxwood at Geneva National Golf Club, is the first and only Preferred Builder at GN to participate in the Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Program. Builders who participate in the program, combine custom design with materials and building techniques that ensure a high level of performance and comfort. To ensure these criteria, AMC Construction works with a third-party professional consultant throughout the construction process to document and test the home’s performance. The first Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Program home at Foxwood will be delivered in early June and the ENERGY STAR Home Certification Plaque will be proudly displayed on the home’s electrical box. Wisconsin ENERGY STAR homes are estimated to be 25% more efficient that the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code requires – proof that AMC Construction is dedicated to building “greener” and more efficient homes, that never sacrifice design and aesthetics for energy efficiency. In addition to dedicating themselves to building more energy efficient homes, AMC Construction is offering builder incentives ranging from $48,000-$100,000 on existing inventory. For more information on Foxwood at Geneva National Golf Club, contact me at www.SellingLakeGeneva.com.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



April 13, 2009

Buoy, Oh Buoy, It's Spring!

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Janis Hartley

The sight of pristine white buoys bobbing along the lakefront in downtown Lake Geneva, Wisconsin reminds me that Spring has definitely sprung. Long before the trees bud and just about the time the crocuses pop, the pier services are busy laying in buoys and piers.  One of the first questions I’m always asked by buyers looking for second- and vacation-homes in Walworth County is, “How easy is it to get a boat slip?” The answer is, “It’s easy if you really try.”

There are a number of options if your new home doesn’t come with a deeded boat slip or buoy. First, register on your homeowner’s association boat slip/buoy waiting list…no matter how long the wait promises to be. Second, check with your local municipality and ask about municipal boat slips – then register there. Third, contact marine companies in the area, such as Gage Marine and Gordy’s and ask about their concierge and in/out services. Fourth, make friends with people who have buoys and boat slips they don’t use and ask about sharing or renting theirs. Fifth, check the local papers for rentals and sixth, don’t limit yourself to renting.  For a price, there are dockominiums (a.k.a. boat slips) available for sale at the Abbey Marina – contact me for more information. Finally, don’t discount buying a home with a deeded boat slip or buoy; prices this spring promise to be attractive and you might just get a great deal. Find them at www.SellingLakeGeneva.com.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



April 03, 2009

Second Home Sales: Something to “Appreciate”

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Janis Hartley

According to a March 2009 National Association of Realtors report, the combination of vacation and investment home sales dropped to 30 percent of all existing and new home transactions in 2008. But the news isn’t all bad. More than 40 percent of investment buyers and 33 percent of vacation home buyers paid cash for their new digs. A major factor in the purchase decision for many of these savvy buyers was portfolio diversification.*

The market share for homes purchased in 2008 for investment was unchanged from 2007; while the market share for vacation homes dropped 3 percent. According to Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, vacation-homes sales were expected to drop, “given the impact of a declining economy on discretionary purchases.” Furthermore, the long-term demand for second-home purchases appears favorable because of the large numbers of people, 40-59, buying a second home. The second-home market in Walworth County, specifically the Geneva Lake, Lauderdale and Delavan Lakes markets, appears to be entering the Spring selling season, as measured by recent showing activity in these areas. For those looking to get in on the low side, this is the season to buy. While cash is king, buyers with excellent credit scores can position themselves to buy smart.

A wonderful, lake rights foreclosure, previously listed at over $500,000 just came on the market today. Lake rights, great condition, and a super “lake” ambiance make this the steal of the week at $315,000. But act immediately because this one may just go for more than asking price! Let me know if I can guide you to the best vacation and second-home values. I’m available 24/7 by email Janis@SellingLakeGeneva.com or by cell at 262-745-3630.

*Source: NAR Report 3/30/2009

Posted By: Janis Hartley