June 25, 2010

Wheatland Wisconsin - Fireman's Carnival & Dance

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Mary Petersen

If you’re headed to Lake Geneva, WI this weekend stop off for a quick brat & beer and add in your favorite two-step.

The Wheatland Fire Department is hosting their 41st annual Carnival & Dance the weekend of June 25th through June 27th. Live music starts at 9pm and there will also be a Softball Tournament, Games, Kids Show &- Water fights. The parade starts at 12:30PM on Saturday. Don’t miss it. I’m giving candy away plus all kinds of goodies!

New Munster Park is located on Geneva Street just east of KD off Hwy 50 (Next to the town hall) There will food, fun and spirits all day. On a side note for the locals of the Wheatland Community the open book session to discuss your real estate assessment is June 30th at the town hall. For a free list of sold homes in your area contact me at . Glad to help!

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



June 22, 2010

White River State Trail

Posted to Mary Petersen

White River State Trail – Walworth Co.

Here are some simple facts:

  • The trail is 11.5 miles one-way.
  • Fee’s Daily or annual state trail pass is required for riders age 16 and older. The annual pass is $20.00. You can purchase your pass at the Walworth County Visitors Bureau located at 203 E. Walworth st, Elkhorn WI * 800-395-8687*
  • Nearby attractions – Webster House Museum, Lake Geneva Museum & Yerkes Observatory

The White River State Trail is one of the newest trail’s and it follows an old railroad bed that goes between Elkhorn & Burlington just north of Lake Geneva WI. Enjoy your bike ride and forgot about your worries; there’s plenty to see and hear long the trail. The trail’s midpoint is Springfield. Stop by the old depot- it’s a café and bike rental business. Cycling has been a long time favorite in this area. The 1st annual road race of Burlington’s Derby Cycling Club was in 1895. Herman Lock of Lyons WI was the winner. Ending your bike ride on the Eastern part of the trail may bring you a winning whiff of Chocolate compliments of the Nestle Company.

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



June 21, 2010

Lyons, WI just Minutes East of Lake Geneva, WI

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Mary Petersen

Lyons is a quaint historic town established in 1839 and it’s just minutes of Geneva Lake. Lyons, WI offers a charming country atmosphere with an old town feel and boasts of friendly neighbors. The community offers annual “Lyon’s Days”. The White River flows through town and if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of people kayaking, canoeing or fishing.

The Riverview Park is the host of many town picnics’ and a lot of locals that advantage of The White River Bike Trail that runs east and west through town. If you love the city life, but need to escape and unwind Lyons, WI is the place to be.

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



June 17, 2010

Want to sell your home faster, get more showings and sell for top dollar? - STAGE TO SELL -

Posted to Mary Petersen

When selling your home it is a must to deliver your package the way the consumer wants it. There have been times I have had to deliver hard messages in gentle ways to both the seasoned seller and the 1st time seller. My message is clear - if you want buyers to view your home & follow through with an offer you must do some type of staging whether it is removing clutter, painting or rearranging. I love to shop in the home I’m staging. I remove pieces in & out the rooms throughout the entire home. This really gives a whole new look to the home without extra cost.

Most of my staging is at a minimal cost to the seller, but it is labor intensive. One area that is greatly over looked is our precious closet space. You can spiff up that area by painting it and remove your off-season items. A cute trick is turning the hangers in the same direction and having all matching hangers is a must.

Store larger items at the top so the eye moves up and through the area.

Those hard to fold items like fitted sheets can be pain! What I do is; I fold the sheets then place them into a new crisp pillow case and put the folded edge facing out. The pillow case application is inexpensive ($4.00-$6.00) and gives the space the look of organization.

Staging provides your home with the appearance of being neat, clean and taken care of.

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



June 10, 2010

5 Tips to Avoid Foreclosure or a Short Sale

Posted to Mary Petersen

  1. Reduce your stress by being proactive when it comes to your finances. When you see the first signs of a possibility of trouble making your payments or find you can’t afford to pay at all. Call your mortgage company and explain your situation. They may help with a plan.
  2. Contact a HUD approved housing counselor at 800-569-4287 or go to www.hud.gov
  3. Read your mail and never ignore a problem it will only escalate into a larger issue.
  4. Prioritize your spending. Find other ways to generate income. You may want to sell items you no longer use or need, but have value to someone else. Perhaps a temporary part time job.
  5. Always keep good detailed notes when speaking with your mortgage company and others that are helping you with your situation.

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



June 09, 2010

Lake Front Homes in Southeastern WI

Posted to Mary Petersen

Lake Front homes were once thought of as homes that only the “elite” could afford. Well those days are over because Kenosha County has several Spring Fed Lakes that offer the best of lake life living whether your lake home is a primary residence or your 2nd home getaway. Pricing starts as low $69,900. The lake sizes vary from a cozy 54 acres to 650 glorious acres.

All the inter-lake areas offer shopping, dining and entertainment. It’s a quick trip from Chicago or Milwaukee and the lakes are conveniently located off I-94.

For a free list with pictures send your request to .

Posted by:  Mary Petersen