December 31, 2008

Sale-ing into the New Year

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Williams Bay, WI

I used to be one of those “morning after Christmas” shoppers who jumped out of bed at the crack of dawn and drove with other like-minded buyers into the malls and onto Michigan Avenue in Chicago. No more. Several years ago I discovered the joys of a more relaxed way of post-holiday shopping here in Walworth County. Where I used to grab a travel mug filled with home-brewed coffee, I now enjoy a quiet cup of java at our local café’s. Whether it’s my favorite Chai Misto at the Lake Geneva Starbucks, or a fabulous steamed African Chai Soy misto at Tickled Pink in Williams Bay, or even a hearty brew from Caribou Coffee across from Geneva Lake, I no longer embark on my shopping spree with coffee stains down the front of my new sweater! First, a relaxed cup of chai or coffee; next, a few brief “hello’s” to neighbors and friends; finally, shopping!

My first stop is always The Cornerstone Shoppe & Artopia at the corner of Broad and Main in downtown Lake Geneva. I love the vast assortment of holiday décor items, sweet smelling Wickwood candles, artisan jewelry (not on sale, but beautiful), and great hostess gifts. The staff is incredibly good-natured and always helpful and don’t seem to mind the fact that I tend to “shop the sales”. I give them great P.R. because I think it’s definitely the place for unique gifts in a setting that’s welcoming and friendly. Next, I saunter over to the Overland Sheepskin Co Inc to peruse their quality assortment of fur and suede. Whether it’s a new coat, cozy sheepskin slippers for my husband, or just some “window shopping” for my January birthday, Overland makes me feel like I’m in Vail – not a bad place to be after the holiday. McCullough’s, on the corner of Broad and Geneva Streets, is an old-fashioned pharmacy and a new-millennium gift shop. Its sale is small, but you can find a few treasures there – so don’t miss it. McCullough’s is also a terrific source for Lladro porcelain figurines and Waterford crystal. Getting ready for a big New Year’s splash? Don’t miss Germaine’s on Broad Street where Germaine and her crew will help you find just the right outfit to ring in 2009.

In Williams Bay, Details in the Bay, is a small, not-so-well-kept secret filled with home décor and accessories with a definite French flair. Proprietress Joey Coleson has done an amazing job of collecting all of the trinkets, presents, and accessories we women love and placing them in this intimate and cozy setting. Details is located at the four corners intersection of Walworth and Geneva Streets, across from the fire house, tucked under Clearwater Spa. You’ll love seeking out treasures in the nooks and crannies here. Looking for more ideas on where to shop? Check out our local papers or email me at http://www.SellingLakeGeneva.com and I’ll fill you in on more of my “Sale-ing into the New Year” finds!

Posted By: Janis Hartley



December 24, 2008

The Beauty of Lake Geneva

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

We've all heard the phrase, "Location, Location, Location" when referring to the value of real estate. For some it means proximity to transportation, to work, or to schools. For some, it means proximity to recreational or cultural opportunities. For many of us who live and visit in the Geneva Lake area, it also means proximity to nature's beauty. This holiday season, I wish all of you the luxury of noticing your "location" and reveling in its beauty.

Posted By: Janet Giovannetti



December 19, 2008

The Square Foot Equation=Value

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Geneva National

I am a The Today Show morning person and while tuning in this week Barbara Corcoran ‘real estate guru’ was one of Matt’s interviews. At times, I have had a hard time with Barbara because she paints with a very broad brush and the Midwest gets caught in the sweep of her all inclusive statements. Real estate is local! But while chatting about the market and that ‘it is the absolute time to buy’ (YIPPEE) part of her recommendation was to determine the price per square foot. Price per square foot is a good factor when comparing properties and it becomes even more important when determining if you are deciding to purchase now or build. With that in mind let’s take a at two properties on the market in Geneva National and their square foot cost.

In my last blog I mentioned four home sites that ranged from $130,000 to $270,000. The average list price of those four is $202,000. 1851 Prestwick, Lake Geneva, WI is currently on the market for $550,000 and it is located on a beautiful wooded site that slopes down to the Palmer 7. Hosta's and trees are a natural barrier to the golf course and allow for birds, deer and shaded privacy. This walk-out ranch has over 3600 square feet of living space. If you subtract the previously determined $202,000 for the land the house has a value of $348,000 with a square foot cost of $96.67 a square foot. $96.00 dollars... that is not only an amazing value but for that price you can easily afford to rip out the carpeting and put in wood flooring. One more note - the land next door sold for $180,000 and it is a smaller parcel. Using that figure for the land, 1851 Prestwick still comes out to $102.77 a square foot. This home has been updated and you just can’t find a more beautiful piece of land with the Prestwick address.

One more example is 121 Palmer, Lake Geneva, WI, listed for $549,000. This is new construction with finished in-place wood floors, Jenn-Aire stainless steel appliances, Andersen windows, Schlage and Kohler fixtures, tray ceilings, two first floor suites, fully finished walk-out lower level with third bedroom suite, kitchen and family room. All set and waiting for you! Square foot cost? $152 per square foot without the land cost!!! Add in the land cost and we are down under $100. You cannot build this type of home for that price. One year paid association dues and other incentives are available on this home and it includes all of the features mentioned plus more. Another great value and the last one available. We can’t build this one again and all features are standards within this home and others by The Choyce Group.

Posted By: Margaret Canfield



December 19, 2008

Dine and Boat at Siebert's Restaurant in Salem, Wisconsin

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Siebert's Restaurant has a country atmosphere and is located in Salem, WI. The location is perfect for the locals and convenient for our Illinois visitors. The menu has a large variety of delights that can satisfy any palate. The owners have completely remodeled the interior of this prideful establishment. Stop by for a great lunch, dinner or an evening cocktail. There is plenty of room in the dining areas for private parties. After the perfect meal enjoy a boat ride on one of our surrounding lakes. Siebert’s is 20 minutes from Lake Geneva. Paddock Lake and Center Lake are nearby. There are many wonderful 2nd or primary lake homes available for all budgets. Call Mary direct at 262-770-7367 for more information or click here.

Posted By: Mary Petersen



December 18, 2008

Bob Webster's December 2008 Lake Geneva Real Estate Podcast

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Check out Bob Webster’s December Audio Podcast for interesting information and guidance for buyers and sellers in the Lake Geneva Real Estate Market. This Holiday season offers some great opportunities for buyers and sellers with low mortgage rates and strong housing inventories. Check the volume level on your computer speakers and then listen in as Bob shares three important tips for buyers and sellers in today’s Holiday market.

It’s easy to search for property for sale in the Lake Geneva Area at www.LakeGenevaProperty.com. Call Bob Webster of Keefe Real Estate at 262-348-3233 or 800-364-7579.

Posted By: Bob Webster



December 17, 2008

Good News for Property Owners in Fontana

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Fontana Wisconsin property owners will be opening their Christmas present from the Village of Fontana this month, also known as their annual tax bill, and in many cases will be in for a pleasant surprise. Many owners were very concerned after the revaluation process that took place last fall when they received notification of their property assessments being substantially increased. Increases of 50% or more were not uncommon and the concern was it would equate to a substantial increase in their real estate taxes. To further complicate the issue, they were being told at the time by the Assessor and representatives from the Village that there would “most likely” be a reduction in the Mill Rate, but as that figure had not been determined and was not officially available, there was a fair amount of concern and skepticism. Well, the good news is that the Mill Rate did in fact go down, to just over $12 per thousand of assessed value and many owners will see little or no increase in the actual real estate taxes. I live in Fontana and in my case, even though my assessment did go up my actual taxes went down slightly. So even though no one likes the idea of having to pay taxes, the news is much better than many people expected.

For information on property for sale in the Fontana area, contact Bob Webster of Keefe Real Estate or visit www.LakeGenevaProperty.com to search for real estate in the Lake Geneva Area. Call Bob Webster at 262-348-3233 or 800-364-7579.

Posted By: Bob Webster



December 16, 2008

TO PLAY OR NOT TO PLAY…

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Williams Bay, WI

This past weekend I had the pleasure of working from the Keefe Real Estate office in the Abbey Resort and Spa, Fontana, Wisconsin.  Visitors and “locals” were arriving to view the production of Christmas with a Twist, presented by the Lake Geneva Theatre Company as part of the Abbey's holiday festivities. This reminded me of the wonderful history of live theatre in the Geneva Lakes area. 

Perhaps one of the oldest and most well-known theatre venues was The Belfry Theatre in Williams Bay.  During its heyday of summer stock productions, it claimed Paul Newman, Harrison Ford, and Gary Burghoff among its distinguished talent.  Unfortunately, the theatre is no longer viable, but its memory lives on.

Perhaps the newest addition to the performing arts scene in the lakes area is the Music by the Lake series presented at the Aurora University Campus, nestled on the shores of Geneva Lake, again, in Williams Bay, Wisconsin.  The concert series, originally produced in the 1950's and 60's featured such notables as Isaac Stern, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and John Denver.  Revived in 2001, productions showcase well-known artists from all musical genres, as well as aspiring opera and musical theatre artists from area colleges and universities, supported by an abundance of “local talent”.  In 2008, The Ferro Pavilion opened.  It “celebrates the beautiful surroundings of the campus and Geneva Lake while increasing the number of seats under cover.” If you've never experienced the performing arts “under the stars”, this should be your first stop!

The Lakeland Players perform in the historic Sprague Theatre in downtown Elkhorn, Wisconsin. 1300 people attended The Sprague's grand opening in 1928.  Built in the ornate architectural style of the times, it hosted silent movies, vaudeville acts and various radio and movie personalities.  In 1929 it even hosted the premiere of Tillie the Toiler, starring a local actress who had found fame in Hollywood.  Having fulfilled its purpose as a community movie house, in the late 1970's the theatre transitioned into a home for a vibrant community theatre troupe, The Lakeland Players.  Three productions are scheduled for 2009.

The Young Auditorium, located on the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus is another theatrical gem. From the Russian Ballet, to productions such as The Little Mermaid, to student-faculty recitals, it “serves as a presenting organization for the performing arts and as an educational and cultural center enriching the lives of the campus and regional communities.” 

Whether you live in the Geneva Lakes area full-time, own a “get-away” retreat, or simple come to visit, be assured you'll be entertained!

Posted By: Janet Giovannetti



December 15, 2008

What are Lake Rights?

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

You're looking at the real estate ads and you see “LAKE RIGHTS”...
...private lake rights, association lake rights, association lake access, private lake access, etc. Exactly what do these terms mean? First, they mean basically the same thing and are used interchangeably by realtors in their lake property descriptions and marketing. Second, if you’re looking for property in The Lakes area, it’s a very important term to understand. Since it’s not in the Webster’s Dictionary, I offer this definition: “Lake rights” are the rights to use an exclusive portion of lake frontage that is shared & owned in common by a group of homes called an “association”. Only these homes may use this frontage. The frontage owned by the association may be 50 feet or 150 feet; it may be shared by 5 homes or 150 homes and it may offer any combination of amenities such as boat slips, buoys, ramps, swim piers, etc. All of these variables affect the value of the homes within the association. If you are considering a lake home purchase and a lakefront isn't in your budget, lake rights are an excellent option.

To search for Lake Properties visit: www.marcyhammett.com and click on Property Search, then Waterfrontage/Access.

Posted By: Marcy Hammett



December 15, 2008

Financing Real Estate in Lake Geneva

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

The credit crunch talked about so much today by the media may be real but when it comes to mortgage financing for real estate, it’s a completely different story. You could easily come to the conclusion that the prospects for obtaining a loan for the purchase of a home today has gotten much more difficult and almost impossible to come by. In reality, nothing could be further from what’s actually going on right now! There are several Mortgage Brokers and Banks in the Lake Geneva Area who are offering very competitive financing terms that would apply to both the second home market as well as primary home purchases.

Email Bob Webster or go to www.LakeGenevaProperty.com. I’m able to direct you to the best Lenders who can help you with the purchase of real estate in the Lake Geneva Area and answer all your financing questions.

Posted By: Bob Webster



December 15, 2008

Friends, Family & the White River

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

You know what they say about working with friends & family? Thank goodness there are exceptions to every rule. It has been my recent pleasure to help a dear friend & her husband buy a new home, after residing for 26 years in an idyllic location on the White River. The Mighty White, as it is affectionately called, runs in part through the Grand Geneva Resort (a.k.a. the old Playboy Club) and continues winding along picturesque mile after picturesque mile. In fact a 2 mile canoe trip can take over 2 hours depending on the speed of the river, number of pit stops and whether you tip over or not (been there, done that). If you enjoy the water, wildlife and beautiful views check out this wonderful river retreat – only 10 minutes from the City of Lake Geneva & Geneva Lake’s recreation & entertainment opportunities.


Click here for a Virtual Tour of this 17.78 acre property.



For listing details, click here.

Posted By: Marcy Hammett



December 15, 2008

Where is Linn?

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

As a Buyer, you can usually drive around your neighborhood and get good comparables for your home. It may have been built by the same Builder and you know there were several floor plan options and fascia decisions but overall you know what you are seeing. Same goes for Bucktown, the Wrigleyville area or into the northern burbs of Libertyville and Crystal Lake. You can drive by and know the neighborhood, the schools and get a general feel for the area. The Lakes area can be a little more difficult and it pays to develop a relationship with a Realtor who knows the legal bodies that overlap the communities that surround Geneva Lake and others. Where is Linn and why does it have a Lake Geneva address? Where is Geneva? Where does Fontana end and Linn start? Should you care? Yes. Taxing bodies matter between all of those communities. Add on lake front, lake access, associations, lake views, no lake views, condominiums, buoys, piers, ramps, waiting lists, no land, some land, well and septic along with municipal sewer and water decisions and you realize that this takes some education. Then change Lakes. It pays to work with a Realtor who knows the area. These communities are our neighborhood!

Posted By: Margaret Canfield



December 13, 2008

New Ways to Shop for the Holidays in Lake Geneva

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Main Street in Lake Geneva forms the eastern border of the Maple Park district – home to some of the most beautiful Victorian homes in the area. While many visitors and residents spend their time enjoying the architecture, I am very excited about several new shops that opened recently. In addition to some of most popular long-time venues, such as Flemings (perfect for “made in Ireland” Irish knit sweaters), Nancy’s Petites (the source for great costume jewelry and women’s clothes), and China West Jewelers (definitely on my list for Santa!), newcomers include The Olive Oil Shop, Abbellimento, and Min’s. Love the flavor of truffle oil drizzled on your mashed potatoes? Try the Truffle Oil Olive Oil from The Olive Shop – it’s a great place to visit for outstanding oils that will make your salads, dips, and vegetables stand out on your holiday table. Abellimento reminds me of my long walks through the streets of Sienna…gorgeous Vietri pottery in colors reminiscent of a Tuscan sunset line the walls. Stop here for that special hostess or house-warming gift…and you’ll want to book your trip to Italy! While you’re dreaming about that trip, stop by Min’s, home to some of the prettiest and most unusual clothing, jewelry and gifts in town. Lake Geneva is dressed in its holiday finest this time of year and the pace is slower than Michigan Avenue or the malls. Shopkeepers take the time to chat and salesclerks remember to ask about the family. While you’re in town, stop by Café Calamari down the road in Williams Bay for a hot toddy and appetizers at the bar. Calamari, as the locals refer to it, also serves one of the largest chicken chopped salads I’ve ever seen – and boy, is it delicious! Way too much food for one person, it’s a good choice for sharing. Add a glass of wine and you have the perfect ending to a perfect day in my neck of the woods! If you want to talk real estate while you’re in town, give me a call at (262)745-3630 – I’m always delighted to help.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



December 12, 2008

End of Year “Sales” Make Sense for Summer-Savvy Buyers/Sellers

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Thinking about moving some of your investment funds in to a second home or condo in 2009 or beating out other sellers in this highly competitive market? While buying real estate, especially lake rights/access and lakefront properties, can be an especially savvy move for the long-term investor selling in a market such as the current one can be productive for sellers as well. Geneva Lake, which serves the communities of Lake Geneva, Williams Bay, Geneva, Linn, Fontana, and parts of Walworth, continues to be a wise investment, with higher end properties showing modest gains even in the current market – good news for sellers and buyers, alike.

I am often asked, “Is winter a good time to buy/sell real estate” and my answer is usually an unqualified “yes”. Smart buyers know that serious sellers remain active during the winter season in pursuit of the ready, willing and able buyer. While inventory historically decreases during late fall/early winter, sellers who remain on the market are generally determined and motivated to sell and there are fewer competing properties. The lack of competing offers often offsets the disappointment of fewer choices for buyers, especially when the “right” home just happens to be available, while the decrease in competition works for sellers, too.

There are currently a number of excellent values available throughout the Geneva Lake area for both primary and secondary-home buyers. In Geneva National Golf Club, for example, several foreclosures as well as creative buyer incentives for new and existing homes, are tempting. Take for example, my listing at 1881 Prestwick Drive – a beautiful brick and cedar home that combines a traditional floor plan with open concept kitchen/dining/great room. At $599,000 the seller is including a Geneva National Club Social Membership, lawn mowing and snow-plowing for 12 months, and additional buyer incentives. Priced well below replacement cost, this home represents an excellent value. Some of the builders in Geneva National are also offering buyer incentives. While all of the Preferred Builders offer a Social Membership, some are also including paid monthly homeowner’s dues for a year or more. At Foxwood, one model is now available furnished, while the 2008 Parade Home has a furniture package available at a deeply discounted price. In addition to the Social Membership, the Villas at Eagleton Ponds are offering buyer’s a choice of either one year paid homeowner’s dues or $10,000 towards a finished lower level.

There are also several very good values available outside of Geneva National. Thinking about upsizing to a home with room for everyone? Check out my listing at 3227 W. Dummer Drive, just on the edge of Lake Geneva, listed at $225,000. If you are not currently working with an agent, email me at Janis@SellingLakeGeneva.com and ask me to place you on a automatic home delivery program so you can receive new listings as they come on the market. This is an excellent way to stay abreast of the market and to know when good deals hit. Of course, my website, www.SellingLakeGeneva.com is an excellent real estate resource, 24/7 – visit often to view all MLS listings in Walworth County. If you are seriously considering selling property, give me a call at (262)745-3630 and ask me about a free market analysis.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



December 12, 2008

Mortgage Interest Rates Drop Again!

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Local lenders around the Lake Geneva Area have reported new rates for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage from 5.3%, all the way down to 5%. Rates for first time home buyers with a 30 year fixed FHA loan are around 5.375%, and they only need 3% down (which can now be gifted from a family member). While rates are plummeting, restrictions are on the increase. Since mortgage insurance companies have tightened their requirements with lenders, however, if you put less than 20% down on a conventional loan, your debt to income ratio cannot be over 45%.

Further rate decreases may also be forthcoming; the Federal Reserve is considering a plan where they would purchase up to $600 billion of mortgage-backed securities and other debt issued by Fannie and Freddie and the Federal Home Loan Banks. Those institutions would then make cash available to the mortgage market for home loans, with the caveat that the resulting mortgage rates cannot exceed 4.5%. These mortgage loans would be available only for home purchases, and could not be used to refinance existing home loans at higher interest rates. Buyers seeking these low rates would have to document their income, and qualify for guarantees from Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, or the Federal Housing Administration. Although this move would not benefit properties currently in foreclosure, the hope is that such low rates would stimulate buying and, therefore, reduce future foreclosures.

The potential for these low rates to stimulate the housing market is very positive. Once the housing market revs up again and some of the over-abundant inventory is depleted, the normal sequence is for housing prices, and perhaps interest rates, to increase with the demand. Now may be the best time in years to buy; we have many properties to choose from and sellers motivated to make the sale, local lenders ready to work with qualified buyers, and outstanding rates. For those waiting in the sidelines for the absolute bottom, the only way you really know it was the bottom is by looking in the rear view mirror….and then it’s too late! For information on local lenders, call me at 262-949-7651. Put me back to work…I’m ready!

Posted By: Julie Sarton



December 12, 2008

Lake Geneva Mentioned in Wall Street Journal Article

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

An article in the Wall Street Journal today, December 12, 2008 regarding Cozy Cottages in markets of multi-million dollar water front mansions, mentions a comfortable home in Fontana on Geneva Lake as an affordable alternative for those looking for a lakeside cottage with lake views and a transferable boat mooring. Keefe Real Estate, Inc. in Lake Geneva, WI was contacted for details on the article, as the go to source for Lake Geneva Real Estate.

Posted By: Bob Webster



December 09, 2008

Lake Geneva Real Estate Update

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Snow, snow and more snow! It’s turning out to be a very white December. It’s a pretty time of the year, but the question will be how, or if it will have any effect on activity, showings and our market in general. As a matter of fact, weekend traffic in downtown Lake Geneva can be almost as busy in December, January and February with a decent amount of snow on the ground and moderate temperatures, as it is in the summer time. So far, although we have seen what is typically a normal post Thanksgiving slow down in showings and activity, I’m experiencing enough calls and Emails to convince me that many potential Buyers are still in the market and looking for good values. In fact, I had several showings last week and have some for this coming week as well, which is definitely a good thing. So it’s not as bleak as some would lead you to believe, in spite of the typical doom and gloom messages that we all hear and read about. I continue to be encouraged that we will be able to do some business in spite of these slower times and will hopefully see a quicker pickup of activity after the beginning of the year, quicker than what many other others markets around the country will probably see.

There was an announcement recently about the Fed committing to $600 billion dollars to support the home mortgage industry and there have been additional, unconfirmed as of yet, rumors of another Government plan to offer subsidized mortgage loans at an interest rate of 4.5%. These would apply to new loans and purchases and not refinances, which could be very good news for our business.

For more information on Lake Geneva real estate, including information on all the lakefront homes, contact Lake Geneva Realtor Bob Webster via email. Visit www.LakeGenevaProperty.com for all your real estate needs in the Geneva Lakes Area including Lake Geneva, Delavan Lake, Whitewater Lake, Lake Beulah, Lauderdale Lakes, Powers Lake and Twin Lakes.

Posted By: Bob Webster



December 09, 2008

Lakefront Investments On Lake Geneva Offer “Safe Haven”

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Often referred to as the “Newport of the Midwest” with its multi-million dollar mansions and 23 mile shore path, Lake Geneva, WI has long been considered a “safe haven” for lakefront real estate investments, especially during economic downturns. The financial meltdown of 2008 seems to be no exception, lakefront investments on Geneva Lake continue their “flight to safety” status, with equity markets seeing losses in the 40-50% range, premier lakefronts have actually shown remarkable resilience and modest appreciation.

Recent sales activity on Geneva Lake (fall/early winter 2008) includes two pending sales on Geneva’s south shore, W4484 Basswood Dr., Linn and 1020 S. Lakeshore Dr, Fontana and numerous closed sales including N1878 Black Point Rd, Linn which closed on October 15 for $4,050,000 after only 71 days on the market. What’s amazing about these sales is that even with the recent financial turmoil and lingering sub-prime mess, premier lakefront properties are still selling at a pace akin to that of the recent boom years, sometimes with multiple buyers in tow. Listed at $3,400,000, W4484 Basswood Dr received an accepted offer within 41 days of coming on the market, not bad for a modest 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch on a 2.87 acre wooded lot with 117’ level frontage. Likewise, 1020 S. Lakeshore Dr, priced at $2,750,000 with only 40’ of level frontage was on the market for a mere 7 days before receiving an accepted offer!

Another premier property poised to sell in short order is Keefe Real Estate’s new listing at 831 Bay View Dr., Lake Geneva, attractively priced at $4,395,000, it is located off prestigious Snake Rd. in Geneva Bay Estates on Geneva’s sunny north shore. New on the market yesterday, this beauty was custom built in 2007 and boasts 100’ level frontage with dramatic great room, gourmet kitchen, screen porch, 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, and finished lower level w/media room, 2nd kitchen and rec. room on nearly a 1/2 acre of lush landscaping.

While no real estate is completely recession proof, Lake Geneva’s premier waterfront properties lie within a short drive of Chicago’s wealth and offer a safe haven second to none. If you are in the market for a lakefront property in the Geneva Lakes Area, please contact me at 262-949-3996(m) or Email me at mickb@keeferealestate.com and I would be happy to send you a list of all active listings as well as arrange a private tour of these exquisite properties.

Posted By: Mick Balestrieri



December 05, 2008

Looking for Lakefront Property? Buy Now!

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

Looking for lakefront property along the shores of Lake Geneva? Now would be a good time to buy. The volatility and variables of the stock market which have adversely affected so many investors seem to miss the stable lakefront market which has historically seen consistent annual appreciation. Prices have seen more modest increases during the past two years, and the winter of 2008/2009 may offer some excellent values for the savvy investor. Those buyers who have waited for the “bottom to hit” may be surprised to discover the “bottom” is a relative term when speaking about lakefront properties.

With an average price of $2,515,183 and $2,794,077 in 2007/2008 respectively, Lake Geneva represents the most expensive – and most prestigious – frontage in Walworth County. So why buy now? If you were to look at a graph showing lakefront per front foot sales prices for Geneva Lake for 2002-2007, you would see that prices rose from $20,000 per front foot in 2002, to just under $25,000 in 2003, dropping slightly in 2004 to just about $23,000, then spiking to $36,000 in 2005. An abrupt dropt in prices came in 2006 (just as the market began to cool) with an average front foot price just under $25,000 (almost on par with 2003 prices), then in 2007 prices rose to just under $26,000 per front foot. Lakefront sales for Lake Geneva, through December 1, 2008, indicate an interesting trend: for the thirteen lakefront properties sold thus far this year, the average front foot price is $35,799 – almost $10,000 more per front foot than the previous year. While two of the sold properties were in associations and did not actually “own” the frontage, pricing for these properties was consistent with true lakefront sales.

So why buy now? If history is to be repeated smart buyers will realize steady appreciation in the coming years on their lakefront purchases. Investing in a lakefront property historically ensures insulation from the effects of a volatile and unpredictable market. In addition, real estate has consistently proven to be a more stable investment than stocks – and you actually can enjoy your investment as it appreciates! For more information on purchasing lakefront property in Lake Geneva, Fontana, Linn, Williams Bay, or Geneva contact Janis Hartley, Keefe Real Estate, at (262)745-3630 or by email at Janis@SellingLakeGeneva.com. You can preview listings online by visiting my website, www.SellingLakeGeneva.com.

Posted By: Janis Hartley



December 05, 2008

Lake Geneva, WI - Lakefront “Flight to Safety” Creates Opportunities for Country Retreats

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

The proximity and popularity of the Geneva Lakes Area’s numerous lakes to the Chicago metro area has created a Mecca for resort homes in Walworth County. As lakefront popularity gave rise to a run-up in prices thru the mid 2000’s, a sub class of resort properties known as “country retreats” emerged as an affordable alternative.

Country retreats are typically located in wooded or rural areas flanking our lakes, rivers, and ponds and range in size from 1-40 acres or more. They are characterized by custom built homes with a resort flair, and are typically zoned for agriculture, recreation, woodland and wetland conservancy. Popular uses include hiking, biking, 4-wheeling and snowmobiling, as well as horseback riding. Relaxed zoning typically allows for auxiliary buildings for workshops, hobbies, horses and storage for recreational vehicles.

While sales have slowed and inventory has grown for all types of resort properties, there seems to be a disproportionate decline in prices and popularity for country retreats vs. the premier lakefront properties (which have generally maintained their peak values, and in some cases continue to appreciate). This lakefront “flight to safety” has not been as pronounced in the country retreats where we have seen large increases in inventory, time on the market and significant price declines.

Country retreats offer some of the best bargains; in particular I have a nearly new, 2.3 acre retreat on the flanks of Whitewater Lake, in the heart of the Kettle Moraine Forest. Previously listed for $529,000, it is now listed for an unbelievably low $399,900. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath custom built home (2 bed/bath suites) is in an enclave of newer homes and features wooded and pastoral views, park like grounds, boat slip lease for the 2009 season, 3.5 car heated garage and a 30’ x 48’ pole barn.

Country retreats are a natural for those wishing to escape the city life or downsize from their more expensive lakefront homes. With interest rates testing 30-40 year lows, years of price adjustments and a wonderful selection of properties, buying opportunities couldn’t be better… please call me at 262-949-3996 to schedule a tour of value priced country retreats.

Posted By: Mick Balestrieri



December 04, 2008

Looking to Buy a Home? Lake Geneva is Ready for You!

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

In this time of ups & downs, the Lake Geneva area has not been as bad as many others. I find Lake Geneva buyers want to remain ready to "make their buy" and continue to look and do want updates.... Let's celebrate.... This may be the time to move... rates down & going lower.... Random calls (the magic switch has been turned on...always happens, like all buyers talk to each other) are beginning to pick up... and our market should be slower right now. Spring may be good.... Those of you that have good credit...or cash...and have been waiting & watching... Lake Geneva is sound & ready for you!

View homes for sale in the Lake Geneva area.

Posted By: Linda Tonge



December 01, 2008

Winter in the Lake Geneva Area

Posted to Geneva Lake Area , Geneva National

Your treadmill has moved outdoors! Just because it is winter in the Lake Geneva area doesn’t mean my athletic activities go by the wayside. No need to hit the incline arrows when I am jogging or walking in and around Geneva National. The five mile loop around the community has a variety of hills (45 degree inclines can really do the trick) along with valleys that can make any morning work-out fantastic. You can also add to your heart rate activity by taking off on the inactive golf cart paths and winding your way around through the crystal winter landscaping that is a natural part of the area. High peaks give you full views of Geneva Lake and Lake Como. Lush evergreens, Christmas décor, woodsy smells and early morning fireplaces are part of the oxygen intake. Deer meet you at many places and the wild turkeys just add to the day. Grab your shoes, grab the dog, add your IPod and come to visit. The hills or the views will take your breath away. See you on the streets.

Posted By: Margaret Canfield



December 01, 2008

Café Capers around Lake Geneva

Posted to Geneva Lake Area

When I want to get the real estate news in an area my first step is the local coffee shop – you know, the one where the regulars come by for coffee and stay for the conversation. In the Geneva Lake area, one such café is Tickled Pink in downtown Williams Bay. While proprietors Steve and Tonilyn Sperry serve up a mean latte’ it’s the regular customers who will make your visit special. Want to know about the Lake Geneva Sailing School? What about biking the White River Trail? Are you an extreme athlete looking for run an ultra marathon – or is the Lake Geneva Marathon more your cup of tea? Stop by and spend time sipping and listen to the local buzz. While you’re there, ask the other customers about walking the lake path – the one that winds completely around Geneva Lake and takes you through the front yards of some of the most beautiful lakefront estates in the area. Lakefront real estate starts at just under $2 million – and despite the current market, it seems to be inflation proof. Whether you’re looking for a little cottage by the lake, a new home in the Williams Bay area, or a weekend condo, the people who call Tickled Pink their favorite place for coffee or lunch will be happy to share their stories about living in Walworth County.

Posted By: Janis Hartley