Attention lake homeowners!
Below is a link to the DNR’s website including a tool which can help you decide if they need to register your pier. Remember that the current deadline is this FRIDAY, April 1st, to register.
http://dnr.wi.gov/waterways/recreation/piers.html
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Karen Trepton
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If you’d like to see a sneak peek at what’s in store for you at Haunted High, check out this link posted on facebook.
OPEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
For more information, check out www.hauntedhigh.info and OPEF.
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If you are looking for a great “spooktacular” event this Halloween season, check out Haunted High in Oconomowoc. Sponsored by the OPEF, this “haunted high school” is bigger and better than ever! The 65,000 square foot haunt is back with terrifying new mazes, blood curdling special effects, trained spookers throughout - all housed in a dark and deep deserted old school.
This year, there will be an adults only, “glamorous haunted ball,” following the haunted high.
The haunt opens this weekend, on October 1st! Don’t forget to buy raffle tickets for the “Haunted Bus!” Tickets for both events can be found on on their website. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter !
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Fall is here, and with it, the annual question, “How much time is left to realistically market my home, before the holidays and winter weather interfere with house hunting?” I’m here to say, that NOW is a fabulous time to consider buying or selling! But, don’t take my word for it. Let’s see what our friend, Steve Harney, has to say.
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Hey, readers! Summer is getting the better of me, and I’ve been delinquent in my blog posts, but, I’m baaaaack!
If you are looking for something really unique and fun to do this week, visit downtown Oconomowoc, Thursday August 12. Yes, that’s tomorrow night! Starting at 6pm, you will be greeted with food and retail therapy. Then, as soon as dusk hits, grab your camp chair, and claim your favorite spot in the street, yes, IN THE STREET! Get ready to see downtown Oconomowoc transform from a bustling commercial zone, into “Hogwarts,” as you are treated to a 40 foot outdoor screening of Harry Potter. If you were around last summer, you may remember the showing of The Wizard of Oz. This will be just as much fun, so don’t miss out!
For more info, be a friend of Moonlit Movies on Facebook.
Then, drop in on Sunday evening at the City Beach, on Lac LaBelle, to watch a “Venetian Boat Parade,” followed by fireworks, over LaBelle. This kicks of the annual Festival of the Arts in Oconomowoc. Juried artists from all over the country, come to display their wares in Fowler Park. There are activities, food vendors and entertainment all week long. For more information on this event, visit their webpage.
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For more information about the current market, give me a call.
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When Flight for Life is called to the scene of an accident, time is of the essence. One of the most critical things they need to have on board is type O negative blood. O negative blood is the universal blood type, which means it can be transfused to anyone, regardless of their blood type.The Flight for Life medical crew takes two to four units of O negative blood on each flight, and on-board transfusions have been instrumental in helping stabilize patients and save lives during transport.
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If selling or buying property in Lake Country Wisconsin was advertised in a personals ad, it would go like this….
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“If you love watching sunsets over the lake…Love swimming and boating at the lake…Love sailing on Lac LaBelle…Love gardening in Lake Country…Contact your Lake Country Real Estate Expert. Your Dream Location is waiting!
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What’s YOUR Dream Location?
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Singers, dancers, musicians, beatboxer and unicyclist – some of the best amateur performers in Lake Country – will take the Oconomowoc Arts Center stage June 26 and 27 in a fundraiser for the Oconomowoc Public Education Foundation’s (OPEF) Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) Fund!
It will be a great show featuring the top 26 acts selected from more than 200 people who auditioned (see who you know on the attached cast list!). Two performances – Saturday evening and Sunday matinee – as well as a raffle, concessions and a commemorative playbill – are contributing to the PACE fund to pay for the enhancements that make the Oconomowoc Arts Center a state-of-the-art performance venue.
Tickets: $12 adults, $8 students and seniors (with ID) on sale at the door and in advance at Books & Company at 1039 Summit Avenue, Oconomowoc Realty at 156 E. Wisconsin Ave., Piggly Wiggly at1300 Brown Street, and the Oconomowoc Arts Center box office at 641 E. Forest Street. (Cash and checks only)
Raffle: A drawing on Sunday, June 27, will give away items including a 42” plasma screen television, $250 cash, sports and theater tickets. Purchase raffle tickets for $5 each or 5/$20, available in advance at Oconomowoc Realty, from OPEF board members, or at the performances.
Click here to read more about our worthy cause from one of my previous posts.
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Headlines seem to change daily, so it is very difficult to sift through the deluge of information and discern the truth about what is happening in the real estate market. Distressed properties, “foreclosures and short sales”, seem to be increasing in numbers. This inventory is called “shadow inventory”, by the professionals. Estimating the shadow inventory, and tracking it, can assist in determining how the overall market will play out.
This morning, I pulled, from the MLS, a zip code within the lake country market, in Waukesha County. This area is filled with a mix of starter to luxury market properties. As of today, there are 422 active listings in this zip code. Then, I went to a leading website that lists distressed properties by zip code. It highlights Pre-Foreclosure, scheduled Sheriff Sale and Bank Owned properties. The same zip code had 101 properties in this category. Some of these homes may be represented in the “active” for sale market, but some are not. I did not go through each and every home to see if it was on the market, but it is safe to say, that as a percentage, there is potentially, up to an additional 25% market share of inventory that is “shadowing” the current inventory, and these properties are financially “distressed.”
How do you, as a seller, compete in a market that is impacted by these homes? To determine that, you need information that is accurate and timely. My favorite source, Steve Harney, outlines his explanation of how these properties will affect the overall market, in this timely article.
Knowledge is key. When navigating through these turbulent waters, take the time to get the information you need, as a seller, to be successful. As a “Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist,” I can assist you in this process. Remember, it’s not if the glass is half empty, or half full…but that there’s water in the glass! Drink up!
Karen Trepton…Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist
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When purchasing or selling a home, price is always a major factor. Location, condition, amenities etc., all play into the picture, but it generally boils down to what one is willing to accept “for the price.” In today’s market, home prices need to be more than competitive, they need to be compelling! How does one determine what “compelling” is? Steve Harney identifies 6 factors that must be considered when pricing a home for sale. They are:
Each category can be defined for your particular situation.
To find out how your home fits into these categories, contact me or your preferred agent.
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Southeastern Wisconsin is unique in that many lifestyles are represented in a small geographical area. One can live on the shore of Lake Michigan, or on the shore of a beautiful, spring fed, inland lake. Hobby farms and equestrian estates abound. Country living or upscale condo living is available. The luxury market can be found throughout these market segments. What was not unique to Wisconsin, was that the luxury housing market in our state, has taken a bit of a beating, just like the rest of the country. What seemed to be an “sure thing” wasn’t. No longer could one purchase a dilapidated cottage on a lake, and turn it around for a profit, merely by slapping up some paint, cutting the grass and putting in a for sale sign. “McMansions” sat idle, in favor of smaller, energy efficient. low cost mortgage properties. The rub is that many of these homes offer a wonderful opportunity for “dream lifestyle” living. The American Dream for some, includes boating and swimming from your own pier, viewing city lights from a penthouse suite, or riding the trails of meadowed and wooded acreage on a your favorite prize horse. It may include “movie night” with your neighbors in your private movie theater, showing off a car collection in your heated 5 car garage, or viewing the wildlife on the acreage of your country parcel. Whatever the “dream” is for you, luxury living can be wonderful.
What is happening with prices in this market? Let’s see what Steve Harney has to say about it . And, if you’d like to purchase or sell a luxury property, give me a call. I’d love to help you live YOUR American Dream!
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If you read my posts, you may recognize that I enjoy giving you, the reader, bits and pieces of what it’s like to live in Southeastern Wisconsin. I do some hard reporting on the state of the real estate market, but mostly, I enjoy painting the picture of what it’s like to live in Lake Country, Wisconsin.
However, I am asked frequently about the state of the real estate market, and decided that it is equally important to share with you, the big picture regarding housing in Wisconsin and the nation. My favorite source of information regarding real estate and where it’s heading, is from Steve Harney. I am a pin wearing, card carrying, blog reading, twitter and facebook posting member of “Harney’s Army!” He’s spot on in terms of sharing the truth about the market.
Steve was in Brookfield, today, and I was impressed with this particular comment, “The professional doesn’t see the glass as half empty, or as half full…but recognizes that there’s water in the glass.” I love that!! Buyers and sellers will continue to move, regardless of interest rates, home prices, inventory volumes, etc. My job, as a professional, is to equip my clients with the information they need to maneuver through the ever changing market with the greatest success.
So, in an effort to share my knowledge of the market, I am going to share Steve’s advice and insight on the market with you. Watch for daily links to Steve’s blog, “Keeping Current Matters.” The information is invaluable! My cultural posts will continue, as well, but these links are required reading for the buyer or seller who wants to be “in the know.” Today’s article touches on the subject of the Housing Recovery, and how “shadow inventory” will affect it. Feel free to contact me with questions.
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Real Trends has named Shorewest Realtors as #10 in the nation, in leading real estate firms. This is the highest ranking ever attained by a Wisconsin Real Estate company. When choosing a Realtor in Wisconsin, choose from the best! To find out about our family of services, including Wisconsin Mortgage, Heritage Title, Shorewest Insurance, Shorewest Home Services and more, contact me, or your preferred Shorewest agent. Click Here to view the Real Trends flyer.
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The Oconomowoc High School Drama Department’s fall production of “Into the Woods” has won an “Outstanding Musical” award. The newly opened Performing Arts Center was the backdrop for a fabulous display of talent by our local high schoolers. I attended the production, and was blown away! The poise and professionalism of these young actors, was incredible. The scenery, costuming, singing and acting were all comparable to a professional production.
The Tommy Awards are part of a state wide musical theater competition, administered by the Overture Center, in Madison. Professionals from around Wisconsin and Chicago spent 6 months attending and ranking performances to select the nominees. “Into the Woods” won in 7 categories, with 2 Honorable Mentions. The winners are as follows:
Outstanding Musical
Outstanding Direction – Thomas Klubertanz
Outstanding Lead Performer – Anna Herro (Little Red)
Outstanding Lead Performer – Hanna Gaffney (Witch)
Outstanding Lead Performer – Cria Ama (Cinderella)
Outstanding Lighting Design – Michael Duncan
Outstanding Costume Design – Cheryl Fillmore
Honorable Mentioned Supporting Performer-Scott Fillmore (Cinderella’s Prince)
Honorable Mentioned Supporting Performer–Tyson Monroe (Baker)
The ceremony to present the awards will take place on June 6th and 7th, at the Overture Center in Madison. Excerpts from the winning shows will be performed to a live, public audience. To be a part of this wonderful event, that celebrates the talents of our local Wisconsin youth, contact the Overture Center Box Office at: 608-258-4141, or visit their website.
For more wonderful theater in Oconomowoc, attend the current drama production, “Metamorphoses”, running through this Sunday, at the OHS Little Theater.
Location: OHS Little Theatre Comments: The OHS Drama Spring production of “Metamorphoses” presented in the Little Theater May 19-21 @ 8:00, May 22 @ 4:00 and 8:00, May 23 @ 2:00. Tickets are $15 for adult and $12 for students/seniors, general admission. Tickets go on sale at the OAC box office April 13th at 12:00. Tickets include sales tax. Service fees apply on all sales.
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On Wednesday, May 12th, approximately 100 people were treated to a very special evening at the Milwaukee Yacht Club. The Milwaukee Yacht Club Foundation sponsored a special event, benefiting high school sailors from our greater Milwaukee area. It was an evening made in “sailing heaven” as not one, but 4 sailing icons were present to support our youth.
The keynote speaker was Gary Jobson, current President of US Sailing, an America’s Cup Winner, ESPN commentator and all around “sailing all-star”. Introducing him, was our local sailing royalty, Buddy Melges. His sailing adventures also include the America’s Cup, in addition to Olympic Gold and Bronze, World Championship titles, and numerous other personal and business accolades, that are too many to highlight. John Ruf, Olympic bronze medalist, Wisconsin native, and local hero, showed his support and his ready enthusiasm for the sport, by supporting the event and inspiring the kids to see the potential for greatness in all of us. 
To round out the “final four” was Olaf Harken, legendary local businessman, who is the “supplier to the stars” in the sailing world. Harken is a leader in sailboat hardware and accessories.
Gary treated the group to numerous stories and video clips of world class sailing events, in addition to personal inspirational messages.
For more information about youth sailing in the Milwaukee area, visit the MYST website at www.mystracing.org. Additional information regarding summer lessons can be found at the MYC website, the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center, or the Inland Lakes Yachting Association.
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This weekend, sailors from the newly formed, Oconomowoc High School Sailing Team, head east to Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, in search of a chance to place in the prestigious Toby Baker National Regatta.
Teams from across the Midwest will compete for the coveted spot, to represent the MISSA at this event. Qualifiers will move on to the event, held on May 21-23, in Seattle, Washington, at “Sail Sand Point”, Seattle’s Community Sailing Center.
Participants from Oconomowoc High School are Senior: Ben Otten, Juniors: Connor Trepton, Katrina Debbink and Bridget Murphy, Sophomore: Brittan Keck, and Freshman: Dan Groskopf. Smooth Sailing and Fair Winds to our local metro Milwaukee kids!
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If you don’t have plans for this evening, consider attending this band concert at Carroll University.
It’s given by the Waukesha Area Symphonic Band, a juried group of adults who gather to promote the arts and love of music. This season’s concert, entitled “Luminescence,” will benefit ACAP, Adaptive Community Approach Program.
A highlight of the performance will be this year’s high school concerto winner, Sabrina Pruszka, who will be featured on the clarinet. Also, the very popular “Star Wars” medley will performed.
The concert starts at 7:30 in Shattuck Auditorium. See you there!
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High School sailing is in full swing in the Midwest. This past weekend, our local sailors played host to 12 teams from Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin. They competed in “team racing,” which consists of a round robin format, pitting one school against another in a 3 on 3 boat situation. Teams utilize strategy to block their opposing team. Boats are awarded points based on their respective finishes, i.e. 1st through 6th places, and the team with the lowest points wins that round. At the end of the regatta, the team with the most wins is the victor. Kids love this format, because in additi
on to their individual sailing skills, they can assist their team mates in maneuvering boat position.
Discovery World allowed us to use their docks as a base camp, allowing spectators a wonderful view of the sailing. Clear skies and blustery winds, at times in excess of 30 knots, made for some very exciting sailing!
This weekend, our teams from Oconomowoc High School and Marquette High School, will travel to Wayzata, Minnesota, to compete in a National Team Qualifier for the Mallory Regatta. Top teams from each region across the country, will compete in May in Connecticut, should they qualify.
For more information regarding local high school sailing, contact Milwaukee Youth Sailing Team at www.mystracing.org.
Posted by: Karen Trepton
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The local newspaper for greater Milwaukee posted an article that said real estate sales “surged” in March. I had several clients call me to ask about it. As my favorite real estate advisor, Steve Harney, states, telling the truth about the market to the public is our duty. Just what is the truth? Waukesha and Milwaukee county sale prices did increase in March, while Washington county saw a decline. Unit sales increased in the metro market. Does this mean that things are looking up for real estate?
Steve Harney addresses this issue in this recent blog post that highlights the 5 keys to a Real Estate Recovery. Please read this article, as his predictions, based on national economic indicators, show a continued decline in sales, with an increase in supply. The silver lining is this: priced properly, homes are selling, and rates, although creeping up a bit, are still better than they’ve been in recent decades. The clincher is this: history shows that when changes in mortgage rates occur, they tend to be fast and dramatic. If you are considering a purchase, now is the time to act! And sellers,don’t make your asking price competitive, make it COMPELLING! Your chance for the greatest profit now, before rates increase further and supply increases, as well.
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Shorewest Realtors has a long list of vendor services that are available for homeowners. I saw this checklist in the office from a local inspector, and thought that it was a very nice, complete list of spring cleaning/checkup basics. Enjoy the wonderful spring weather, and feel free to call if you have any questions regarding specific home resources that you may need.
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As I mentioned in a past post, spring is a great time to tune up the winter body with some bike riding, and southeastern Wisconsin offers some of the nicest rides around!
Starting tonight, Wheel and Sprocket bicycle shop is host to the ”Nation’s Largest Bike Expo Sale” at the Wisconsin State Fair Expo Center. As the host states, “You can find a bike, buy a bike and ride it home!” The event features over 1500 bikes and thousands of accessories, for the amateur and the serious rider. It’s free to the public, and opens at 4pm Thursday, and runs through Sunday.
Stay tuned for more biking information, as our local “Shorewest Family” sets out to ride weekly on the trails of Lake Country. If you see a group of riders decked out in red and black, it just may be your dedicated Shorewest agents, taking a break from selling the wonderful real estate in Lake Country, to enjoy the beauty of it themselves!
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Tomorrow, communities throughout Southeastern Wisconsin will be holding various local elections. Realtors tend to be a very patriotic bunch, as we are part of one of the oldest voices in America, the National Association of Realtors. As a Realtor, I’d like to encourage all of my fellow “Wisconsinites,” to get out and vote tomorrow, April 6th.
I just received an electronic news letter from my local school district, and was impressed with the poise of the students at Oconomowoc High School, who moderated a local forum for the Oconomowoc School Board candidates. If you haven’t had a chance to hear the message of these accomplished candidates, check out the video below, and remember to exercise your right to vote, tomorrow.
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If you are new to the area, and are looking for places to worship during Holy Week, this is a nice link to local area worship sites in Southeastern Wisconsin. I searched Oconomowoc, and got this page with many links to sites in Waukesha County. On the left of the linked page, you can search by community. If you are looking for other community resource guides, give me a call. I’d be happy to point in the right direction.
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You know the drill. Call your agent to finalize your buying/selling plans now!
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“Oconomowoc’s Got Talent,” and the Oconomowoc Public Education Foundation (OPEF) is set to celebrate it on June 26 and 27 with an all-ages talent show to benefit the Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) fund. People with all types of talent from throughout the Lake Country area are invited to audition May 2 and 3 for the chance to perform on the big stage at the Oconomowoc Arts Center. 
Singers, dancers, jugglers, baton twirlers, magicians, musicians or people with other unusual talents all are welcome. Auditions will be on a first-come, first-served basis on Sunday, May 2, from 1 – 6 p.m., and Monday, May 3, from 5-9 p.m., at the Oconomowoc Arts Center. Performers will be provided with microphones, stage and a standard drum set, and are asked to bring all other items such as props, music and instruments required to properly present their acts. Acts are limited to five minutes and will be reviewed by a selection panel including former Oconomowoc High School (OHS) theatre director Vic Passante, community creative Betsy Freeman, and current OHS theatre director Tom Klubertanz.
“For decades, our area has been a great center for the arts, and the community’s talent spans all stages of life,” said Dave Reul, PACE committee co-chair and former band director at Oconomowoc High School. “This is the chance for everyone who has dreamed of performing – from ages two to 102 – to show their family, friends and Lake Country neighbors what they can do. Come and audition, and mark your calendars to see the surprises we have in store in June. Alumni can audition via video if they live out of town!”
Details on the auditions, online video submissions and the June performances can be found at www.opef.info or on the OPEF fan page on Facebook. Video auditions also can be submitted by mail to “O’s Got Talent,” P.O. Box 444, Oconomowoc, WI 53066.
To support the PACE fund, a $5 donation is requested from each person who auditions, and an additional $20 registration fee will be asked of each performer (or group) selected to be part of the show. The goal is to include as many acts as possible, anticipating two full shows of different talent – one on Saturday evening, June 26, and a matinee on Sunday, June 27.
As an additional benefit to PACE, the “Oconomowoc’s Got Talent” event will also feature a silent auction and raffle, a commemorative playbill featuring local business and congratulatory advertising for the performers, and the opportunity to purchase photographs and videos of the event. PACE donations and seat dedications will also be accepted at the event. Sponsors and volunteers are needed – please visit www.opef.info for details and contacts.
The Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) fund exists to collect on OPEF’s $500,000 commitment to the school district, which made it possible to build the OAC with enhancements that take it beyond a standard high school auditorium to a first-class performance venue. Nearly $200,000 has been raised to date, but the balance of the financial commitment still must be met. The enhancements that add to the audience experience include the polished wood acoustical concert shell, the orchestra pit and cover that expand the stage, seating upgrades and wireless microphones.
OPEF is a charitable foundation created in 2007 to allow for private, tax-deductible contributions in support of the Oconomowoc Area School District and to encourage innovative educational opportunities in the public schools. OPEF oversees several funds, including the OPEF General Fund, which awards grants annually based on criteria determined by the OPEF Grants Committee; the Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) Fund to support enhancements built into the Oconomowoc Arts Center; and the Jennifer Bukosky Fund, a memorial fund that supports alcohol and drug abuse prevention in honor of past Oconomowoc High School associate principal Jennifer Bukosky.
For more information on making a donation or volunteering with OPEF, visit www.opef.info.
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Every year, young and old alike delight to see little ones scrambling to find the secret hiding places of hidden Easter eggs. Starting this weekend, there are numerous places around Southeastern Wisconsin hosting annual Easter Egg Hunts. Here are a few:
Happy Hunting!
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The spring season for MYST is up and running. Our local high school kids will test their mettle in an “Icebreaker” regatta, against college sailors from UWM and Marquette. They’ll be sailing 420’s and lasers in front of the Milwaukee Yacht Club. It’s supposed to be a nice day. Stop by and watch!
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Oconomowoc continues it’s strong tradition of excellence in the arts, by forming a new community orchestra. Orchestra “O” is a community based symphonic orchestra, open to players from the surrounding area. They also have a smaller Chamber group, Oconomowoc Chamber Orchestra, that will be comprised of professional, semi-professional and juried players.
Roberta Carpenter, a local string instructor, and accomplished professional conductor, leads the effort to bring this wonderful opportunity to the stage of the Oconomowoc Arts Center.
Read more here about the organization.
In an effort to springboard their summer concert, Noodles and Company in Delafield, has paired with them to share proceeds from their sales on March 29th, from 3-9pm.
So, get ready for some good food and some great music!
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Spring has arrived in Lake Country! It has gone from this…
To THIS!
Well, it actually isn’t the same as the full swing of summer, but the ice is out, and summer’s coming fast!
As of this month, there are 324 listed lake properties for sale in Waukesha County. 118 of those homes are under $500,000. It’s never been a better time to consider that dream location on water! If you are looking at waterfront homes in Waukesha County, give me a call!
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Spring is in the air! Nothing feels better after a long winter, than a beautiful spring bike ride! My husband and kids are tuning up their bikes to start their favorite weekly ride around Lac LaBelle. My girlfriend and I have committed to a daily ride, so my bike is on its way to Wheel and Sprocket, a local bike shop, for a much needed tune up. Click here to see the calendar of their events.
If you are considering bike riding in Wisconsin, here are some great resources. Bikewisconsin.com outlines various tours across our beautiful state, and they have a link to google maps for bikers, highlighting safe, biker friendly routes. OnMilwaukee.com highlights 5 bike routes within an hour of Milwaukee.
My favorite trail is the newly expanded Oconomowoc Bike Trail, starting at the Imagination Station Playground. My associate wrote a nice article on this trail last year.
Click on this link to view several Wisconsin Bike Trails, and happy riding!!
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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There are 42 days left to secure your home buying tax credits! Here’s another pertinent informational piece to assist you in navigating through the next 42 days.
Many buyers and sellers continue to ask what we, as experts, feel will happen with the market, after the expiration. There are many factors that will impact the rest of the year, but today we will focus on foreclosures. My favorite expert, Steve Harney, looks in detail at the foreclosure market in this article. Foreclosures will continue to drive the selling prices down, as banks start to release their inventory on the open market. This is great news for buyers. For sellers, it means that NOW is the time to maximize your selling price.
To see how Shorewest and I can maximize your selling price, contact me directly. I am committed to serving my buyers and sellers by promoting the truth about the market in a productive and positive manner.
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As of today, there are only 44 days left to secure the homeowner’s tax credits. Not only will the credits expire shortly, experts predict that mortgage rates will rise, and possibly MORE than at a modest pace. James Hagerty cites timely information in this Wall Street Journal article.
Steve Harney, renowned real estate advisor, states this in his recent monthly newsletter…
1. Realize that the price a homeowner can get for their home today is greater than it will be on May 1st.
Any buyer who is not in contract on April 30th this year will miss out on the Home Buyer Tax Credit ($8,000 for a first-time buyer and $6,500 for the move-up buyer). That does NOT mean houses will not sell after April 30th. It means that the buyer will demand a better price.
If you need to sell, sell now.
2. Realize more and more experts are predicting a surge in interest rates later this year. Some examples:
Guy Cecala, publisher of Inside Mortgage Finance:
“There is no question rates have been kept artificially low by the Fed’s heavy buying. My opinion is that rates will go up a full percentage point initially.”
(meaning that 30-year fixed conforming loans, now hovering around 5 percent, would hit 6 percent)
Christopher Thornberg, principal at Beacon Economics:
“Clearly, when they (the Fed) stop printing all that money, it’s going to be a shock to the system. I have to assume that when they pull back on it, it will cause a 100- to 200-basis-points rise. When they start selling off the stuff they purchased, which by my guess would come early next year, that would cause another 100- to 150-basis-points rise.”
(meaning rates of 6 percent or 7 percent originally and then 7 percent to 8 percent or higher within a year)
For a profile of current rates, take a look at this Wisconsin Mortgage rate sheet , as reported this week. A one percent increase in interest rates will equate roughly to a 10% decrease in home price, in order to keep payments apples to apples. This equates to less buying power for purchasers, and reduced prices for home sellers. For questions regarding this information, contact me directly at ktrepton@shorewest.com.
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Lake Country is home to several school districts, the largest of which includes, Arrowhead, Kettle Moraine, and Oconomowoc Schools. I’d like to take a moment to highlight Oconomowoc Schools and some exciting news from this district.
Recently, I posted an article on the arts, highlighting Nature Hill Intermediate’s production of “Disney’s, Beauty and the Beast.” I was fortunate enough to enjoy the Friday evening production of the show, held in the Oconomowoc Arts Center, located at the High School. All I can say, is “WOW!” If you haven’t had a chance to see a recent production by the students in this district, you need to put it on your calendar for the future. The poise and polish of these young performers belied their ages. They received a standing ovation on Friday, and to my knowledge on the Saturday and Sunday performances, as well. Here’s a clip of the “Be our Guest” number. What a wonderful experience for the students and their families. It was superb!
Future performances at the OAC include, Milwaukee’s First Stage Children’s Theater performing “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” on Sunday, March 28th at 3pm. They are accepting a $5 donation at the door, which benefits the OAC Artist-In-Residence program. This is followed by the Wisconsin Singers , performing on Saturday, April 17th in the evening. For more information on these and other performances in this beautiful new performance hall, visit their website.
Watch for my next post regarding the Oconomowoc Public Education Foundation. Formed for the enhancement of the Oconomowoc Public School System, it’s “PACE” fund allows for the financial support of the Arts Center. Visit OPEF’s website for a sneak preview of future news regarding the exciting things that the Foundation is working on. Better yet, become a FAN on Facebook to get the greatest and latest news.
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Lights, camera, action! Nature Hill Intermediate School in Oconomowoc is proud to present the theatrical production of Beauty and Beast. The performance will take place in the newly built Oconomowoc Performing Arts Center at Oconomowoc High School on March. 11, 12 and 13. I stopped in at school the other day, and happened to see the kids rehearsing. As usual, residents will be treated to a wonderful display of talent and entertainment for the entire family! It’s a special treat for the kids to perform this production in the Art’s Center. It’s the policy of the NHI drama department, to produce one show a year in the new building. See this flyer for further information regarding ticket purchases, show times and dates. Check it out!
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The clock is ticking if you are interested in taking advantage of the tax credits for home buyers and sellers. Actually, between taking this photo and uploading it, I lost a day, so we are at 73 days and counting.
Don’t lose out on your ability to put these tax credits to work for you. In 73 days, the credits run out, and other leading factors will start to dramatically change the real estate picture. I am not an alarmist, but I do believe that as a Realtor I have a duty and obligation to inform my clients about the forecasted changes to interest rates, pricing, and levels of inventory that may affect their ability to reach their real estate goals in 2010.
If you have questions about how these factors may affect YOUR real estate goals in southeastern Wisconsin, call me. I am committed to making your real estate goal, my number one real estate goal!
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As promised in earlier posts, here is an update on the Ice Boating Community, in Wisconsin. Youth Ice-Boating just held the North Americans in Michigan. Despite less than stellar wind and overall 
conditions, some local Milwaukee and Madison area youth participated and finished with “hardware”. With the recent thaw and then “deep freeze”, we are right back in prime ice-boating conditions in Southeastern Wisconsin. Check out this site to see interesting articles on recent and upcoming events in the area. There are some fabulous action shots also! Have fun, and dress warm!
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High speed rail could connect Milwaukee to Madison with stops in Brookfield, Oconomowoc and Watertown as early as 2013 due to a federal grant that was awarded this week. The much debated project, would utilize $810 million dollars in federal grant money. Proponents cite job creation, as well as convenience for Wisconsin residents. Opposition is leery of cost. Completion is still subject to legislative approval. To read more, click here.
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Yesterday, I posted an article about the remaining days available to receive the home buyer and seller tax credits. this link also outlines how mortgage interest rates will affect the housing market, after the tax credits expire. The information comes from another blog that I follow, “Keeping Current Matters”, written by Steve Harney, a respected real estate analyst. The information is timely, and relevant for today’s real estate climate. Remember…as of today, there are 107 house shopping days left! Contact me or your Shorewest agent today, to see how we can assist you with your house shopping needs!
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It’s Jan 13th and there’s 108 shopping days left! Left for what, you may ask? If you have been reading this blog, you should be aware that there is a deadline for the home buying tax credits. To receive further information on this, and our Seller Forum that will take place on January 20th, please contact me.
Below is a video featuring Becky Brand with Shorewest Realtors, inviting you to a free, no obligation seminar for anyone thinking about selling a home this year. Becky reveals what information will be covered in the Free Seller’s Seminar on January 20th, 2010 at the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha, including some statistics and expert information.
To RSVP for the seminar, email or call me at 414.975.9659 or contact Becky Brand at bbrand@shorewest.com.
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The Oconomowoc City Beach ice rink is up and running! For a fun afternoon, come over for some skating on Lac Labelle. Finish the event with dinner at one of the local restaurants. Winter fun!
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The holiday season may be over, but in real estate, we are focused more than ever on the remaining “shopping days” of the “retail home hunting season!” What I mean by that is, the number of days that are left before the various incentives to assist buyers and sellers expire.
This chart outlines the terms of the credits, and if ever there was a slight, and I mean slight, window of opportunity for a seller’s market, it will be between January and April of this year. April is the deadline for offers to be accepted, in order to receive the tax credits.
Sellers who price their homes aggressively and utilize the various tools that Shorewest has to offer, can propel their sale to the closing table. Shadow foreclosure inventory is expected to increase throughout the year, as are mortgage interest rates. The effect of these issues will be increased depreciation in home values, as well as a softening of buying power. If mortgage rates increase by one percent, a corresponding price reduction of 10% must occur, in order to maintain the same monthly payment in principal and interest on a new home.
This is not all doom and gloom, however. Education is the key. As a Certified Relocation Specialist, and Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist, it is my duty to educate my buyers and sellers on how to maneuver through these critical months, in order to maximize their buying and selling power.
To find out more about these tax credits and where your goals fit into this ever changing real estate market, consult your tax advisor and give me a call.
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The ski season for youth racers in Wisconsin is up and running. WJR kicked off the season with its first race, Saturday, January 2nd, at Ausblick in Sussex. The cold weather did not deter the smiles and eager faces of the many local youth who showed up to test their mettle against their peers.
Earlier in the week, the Lakers Ski Team, which trains at Devil’s Head, held a “Christmas Camp” to prepare for the new season. Ski training met holiday giving as the skiers, in conjunction with the staff at Devil’s Head, held a ski race event that joined toy donation with ski racing, called “Toys for Turns”. Skiers were able to run a timed race course, in exchange for a toy donation for needy kids. Check out this video link of some of the kids who were there to train and run the course over the week. For more information on WJR, Lakers , or Devil’s Head Ski Racing, check out their websites. There’s still time to join a team, or just come out and watch a race. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!
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Ring in the new year in Southeastern Wisconsin with one of my favorite New Year’s Milwaukee Traditions, by watching the world famous, show stopping, smile generating, all around fun making…Harlem Globetrotters at the Bradley Center!
This event, is an annual event in Milwaukee. I went as a kid, and was so pleased to be able to take my kids, a few years ago. It’s great fun, and an excellent way to bring in the new year with laughter and family fun!
Click here for ticket information.
As 2009 draws to a close, I’d like to thank all of you who take the time to view our blog. Keep reading, and pass it along to your friends. I look forward to giving you more information in 2010!
Happy New Year!
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If you live in the Midwest, especially in Lake Country, it is inevitable that you are familiar with our area’s prime winter recreation activities; ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and skating. But are you familiar with one of the oldest and most unique winter sports, ice boating? Ice boating is every sailor’s favorite winter activity! If the love of wind and water gets your adrenaline running in the summer, ice boating will put you over the top, in the winter!
I’m not exactly sure where ice boating originated, but I remember hearing as a kid, that it was brought to the U.S. by the Scandinavians. In the late 1800’s, ice boats were considered the fastest mode of transportation on the planet! Huge boats were constructed and manned on the Hudson River, where, when the conditions allowed, teams of men would race the trains that ran along the river banks reaching speeds in excess of 80 mph. Years ago, Milwaukee Public TV ran a special with actual movie footage of just such an event.
For ice boating to occur, the “winter sailor gods” have to align the heavens for the perfect conditions. One needs, a frozen lake, little or no snow, and of course, wind! Because of this, some winter seasons come and go with little or no sailing, making the experience that much more coveted. The consensus is that if the conditions are right, you need to drop everything, and hit the ice. “Tomorrow snow may dump, and you’ve lost your chance!” My family has been ice boating for years. My uncle owns 3 boats, and my husband and I have inherited 2 youth boats. We’ve had years of fun, sailing on Golden Lake. As a child, we followed the regatta circuit on our local lakes, especially on Pewaukee Lake and Lake Geneva. Each winter, stories about the “perfect ride” circulate around the fireplace at family gatherings.
The boats themselves have various classes, just like water sailboats, based on hull and sail type, and typically resemble a torpedo like body with cross braces that have “skates” or “blades”…one in the front, and one on each side of the boat. The skipper steers the front blade and adjusts the sail to maximize the speed. Safety equipment consists of a helmet with face gear, warm clothes and often times, inflatable life vests, in the event of open water. It’s not for the faint of heart. The speeds are incredible, and if you hike up too far, the result can be a crash on very hard ice!
Many of my friends on Lac Labelle, sail the “Nite”. It’s the “Ferrari” of ice boats…sleek and beautiful. Opti iceboating is also hugely popular. My friend’s daughter sailed her opti ice boat at the world competition in Europe 2 years ago. One of our local Pewaukee sailors, won the North American Opti Championship, last year. There is a Wisconsin association that is dedicated to this sport, The Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club. Fabulous photos and information are on their site. In addition, you can Google “ice boating” and a barrage of websites, photos, YouTube sites, etc. pop up with information on this awesome and unique sport. Click here to see a YouTube video of an ice boat in action.
Check it out…yet another awesome activity in Lake Country, Wisconsin! Ice Boating!!
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If you want an early dose of holiday cheer, check out downtown Oconomowoc, this Saturday, December 5th, for the annual Christmas Parade.
The parade runs from 3 - 4pm, and follows a route from Fowler Park, 
south to downtown, through the round-about westward on Wisconsin Avenue, and then south on Main Street to Roosevelt Park.
The best place to see the parade is downtown or from various local businesses and churches, such as the steps of Dr. Martin Luther Church, on Main Street. They always welcome parade watchers, and sometimes offer hot chocolate and snacks.
In addition to various local groups, you will see some of our very own Shorewest Lake Country Team, following a very special “float”, and of course, Santa!
For more Oconomowoc events visit this calendar link from the Chamber of Commerce.
HO HO HO!
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Attention snow lovers! The Lake Country alpine ski team, “Lakers”, is hosting it’s annual “Ski Swap”, this Saturday, November 7th. It will take place in Oconomowoc, at the Oconomowoc High School Cafeteria. Equipment drop off is from 7:30-9:30am and the sale runs from 9:30- 1pm. Adult and youth equipment will be for sale, including alpine, cross country and snow boarding equipment. Proceeds benefit the ski team, which serves kids from all over the Lake Country area. The Lakers participate in the Wisconsin Junior Racing circuit, skiing at hills such as, Sunburst, Alpine, Devil’s Head, Ausblick, Holy Hill and Olympia. Skiers race by age status, and train in the slalom and giant slalom venues. For more information on Lakers ski team check out GRF ski shop, which coordinates the 
coaching and administration of the team. Lakers invites youth between the ages of 5 and 19 who like to downhill ski or want to learn to be better skiers to join.
An informational meeting and registration session for the new season will be held at Summerset Marine in Nashotah on Nov. 15 from 1 to 3 p.m. See you on the slopes of Lake Country!
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The Government Affairs Communications Director for the National Association of REALTORS® has informed us that the Senate just voted 98-0 to pass the Tax Credit [within the Unemployment Bill]. In her words…
“It now goes to the House. Expect Democratic leadership to place the bill on a fast track for passage on Thursday.
It could get to the President on Friday.”
Great news for homebuyers and sellers, alike! Stay tuned for the final decision.
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Many of you may know that I blog about youth sailing in Southeastern Wisconsin. It’s a big part of my boys’ lives, and something my family is passionate about. I will have another article in the next few days, about the updates of our local Milwaukee Youth Sailing Team. However, in the interest of fairness to other sports “water”, I would like to highlight a local water ski team, that has been invited to China. Yesterday, several Wisconsin residents set out for a 13 day trip to China, to participate in the annual Sino-American Water Ski Show. It’s a fabulous opportunity for the water skiers selected. A local Lake Country native, Jenna Strobel, is one of the participants. Her younger brother plays soccer with my son, and it was exciting to see the enthusiasm and eagerness in her face at a recent game, as she described what will be the trip of a lifetime for her and the others. Several different teams are represented on the current USA team to China, including Badgerland (Waukesha, WI), Must-Skis (Beaver Dam, WI) and Tommy Bartlett’s (Wisconsin Dells, WI).
Growing up living on Golden Lake, in Lake Country, my summers were filled with daily waterskiing. My brothers and I would run the boat from morning till dusk, skiing slalom, doubles, trick skis and barefooting. It was endless fun. I can only imagine how thrilling it will be for Jenna and the others selected, to participate in something they love, while being “Good Will Ambassadors” to our neighbors on the other side of the world.
To follow along on this adventure, you can read their blog by clicking here.
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A friend of mine sent me an email with a cartoon in it today, and it made me chuckle. It was a picture of two dinosaurs sitting on a rock looking at Noah’s arc. The arc was floating away from them and as they watched they said “oh no, was that today?” As a devout “extension” tax preparer, I can relate! In terms of house hunting, however, you don’t want to be the “dinosaur on the island”. There’s still time to collect the $8000 tax credit, and get into your first home. For specific information regarding the market in Lake Country, call or email me. I’d be happy to help you realize your goal of home ownership! Here’s a link to some frequently asked questions about the credit.
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If you are wondering where summer was in July, it waited to arrive in Wisconsin until September! We have been experiencing some absolutely beautiful, summer-like days over the last two weeks! My 7th grade son reminded me that in fact, summer doesn’t officially end until September 23rd. So thank you “Mother Nature” for serving up summer until the last possible second!
Summer is my favorite season. I’m a lake gal, always have been, and always will be. While at one of my listings, on Golden Lake this weekend, it looked and felt like summer, not the middle of September. Conversely, in spite of the balmy temps, the changing colors on the trees, the fog on the lake in the morning, and the ducks flying in their precise V formations, all point to the inevitable end of summer.
In my home, fall always marks the beginning of the New Year. I think the calendar year should be September to August. September is when I organize our household for the new school year; we start putting away the lake gear to prepare for winter; there is a renewal of schedules and activities; real estate is always rocking and I attempt to start a semblance of a fitness program. My “new year resolutions” are considered in the fall, not in the middle of winter. I take stock of my personal and professional goals.
With regards to real estate, sellers often wonder if they should wait until spring to hit the market. I am here to say, “Don’t wait!” If you need to sell, now is the time. Our market is no longer a fall/spring market place. The days of putting on a property in the spring, and pulling it in the fall, are over. Signs of price stabilization and improvement in the market are starting to be noticed, however, the big market picture predicts that overall market appreciation will not start in Wisconsin until 2012. This means that the pricing games of a few years ago will not be effective now. Sellers need an aggressive, accurately staged marketing and pricing program to achieve a successful sale.
The good news, and there is ALWAYS good news, is that sales are starting to creep up, buyers are actively looking, and agents in our Lake Country office are busier than ever! As reported in the Biztimes…
Shorewest sales up for third straight month
Brookfield-based Shorewest Realtors says its booked sales are up for the third month in a row. Shorewest said its booked units are up 26.7 percent, volume is up 11.5 percent and listings are up 6 percent.
“We’re excited to see our business increase over last year,” said Shorewest vice president of sales Ted Dentice. “Our sales associates are working extra hard to put sales together and with the help of our mortgage company - Wisconsin Mortgage Corporation - close them.”
“Our offices are busy,” said Joseph A. Horning, president of Shorewest. “Plus, we’re seeing more people in our open houses. I think people are realizing that now is a great time to buy whether it’s their first home or they’re moving up in home value. Prices are good and mortgage rates are still low. Plus, the $8,000 First-Time Home Buyer’s Credit is also still available through November 30. We’ve also just launched a new Job Loss Protection Program that gives buyers added confidence when purchasing a home.”
If you are considering a sale, call me. I’d love to show you how Shorewest and I can help you realize your new year’s resolution of a home sale, a reality.
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Are you considering a home purchase, but can’t seem to pull the trigger, due to anxiety over the general job climate? Understandably, in today’s economy, consumers are becoming more and more conservative. However, home prices from a buyer’s perspective, are the best they’ve been in years, rates are at all time lows, and the housing selection is fabulous. And conversely, if you are a home seller, and are committed to selling, Shorewest and I can offer you many innovative tools, to insure that you are receiving the biggest “piece of the home buying pie”, and that your home receives a satisfactory offer and makes it to the closing table.
Shorewest has established itself as the market leader in Southeastern Wisconsin, and this week, we can give you, yet another reason why this is the case.
We are now offering to our sellers, a Job Loss Protection Program!
Just what IS a Job Loss Protection Plan? Simply put, it is a seller paid program that gives buyers access to a very unique 24 month program, to assist with the mortgage payments on their new home, in the event of an unforeseen job loss. It is NOT insurance, but rather, a specific, mortgage payment assistance program, to help buyers through temporary setbacks, due to a job loss. Wow!!! The cost to sellers to participate is minimal, and the market exposure is huge! As a seller, you will receive special marketing status, to set your home apart from other sellers. As a buyer, you will be able to target homes with this program. This program has been applied in other states, across the country, and to other industries, such as the auto industry, with great success. Leave it to Shorewest, to bring this program to Wisconsin residents.
I can’t tell you how awesome this is, from a Realtor® perspective. To be able to offer my clients, sellers and buyers alike, another tool that provides “peace of mind” in the home purchasing process, is wonderful.
To find out more about the specific details of this new program, please contact me at ktrepton@shorewest.com or visit my website for further contact information at www.karentrepton.shorewest.com
I am eager to share information about this with you!
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Well, it’s been a little over a week since Oconomowoc celebrated the 70th anniversary of the original screening of the Wizard of Oz. It was an awesome event, drawing young and old alike, to the streets of downtown Oconomowoc. Sources say estimated attendance ranged from 4000 to 7000. I heard a young man ask “the Wizard” if Brett Favre would be playing with the Vikings this fall, and the answer was, “It is possible.” I guess the Wizard’s crystal ball was tuned up!
The event must have left its mark, because within the week, two unusual events occurred. The first was this car stopping, double rainbow over the skyline of Pabst Farms, (Sorry the photo was from my blackberry). I was leaving a local grocery store, and was one of many literally stopped on the spot, trying to capture pictures with our phones. The second occurred when I was leaving my listing on Golden Lake, on Sunset Drive. As I was driving away from the home, I glanced over at the boat launch, only to see a little red convertible car driving from the water, to the launch. I tried to snap a photo with my phone, but alas, I’m a realtor, not a stunt-driving photographer, and I couldn’t maneuver back around quickly enough to catch it for you. It wasn’t a hot air balloon on it’s way to Kansas, but it could have qualified for a bit part in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Well, that’s another movie!
Anyway, if you are up to an end of the summer drive in beautiful Lake Country Wisconsin, take highway 18 west to Golden Lake, and stop in to see my lovely lake cottage. You’ll never know what interesting things you will see to top off your summer vacation, somewhere “over the rainbow”.
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This past weekend youth sailing heated up on Big Cedar Lake between Hartford and West Bend, with the annual Wisconsin Yachting Association Championship Regatta. Sixty-seven boats arrived to test their skills against their peers from around the state. Shifty breezes and tight quarters gave the race committee a run for their money, but they executed a beautiful regatta along with the gracious volunteers from Cedar Lake Yacht Club.
The weather felt more like fall, with cool temps and rain, but the spectators bundled up and the sailors stayed warm and dry with spray gear. A fun item of note was the addition of a “special” spectator…the Met Life Blimp, as seen in the accompanying photo. The blimp hovered over the races for quite some time, before heading out.
Kate Klement from Lake Beulah won the overall title with 2 bullets out of 3 races. Nick Clemence from Pewaukee took 2nd, Connor Trepton from Lac LaBelle took 3rd overall and the bullet from the 3rd and final race, Charlie Kutschenreuter from Beulah was 4th and Natalie Kay from Okauchee was 5th overall.
Pictured are photos of the racing, a close up of an X boat, and a great shot of “Team LaBelle”.
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I’m constantly being asked, if the market is picking up. My answer is always the same; “Yes, if your property is priced right, especially, if it’s in the first time home buyer price point.” As of this Sunday evening, according to the MLS, there are 38 single family homes listed for sale, priced at $185,000 or under, in Oconomowoc, Arrowhead and Kettle Moraine School Districts. Ten of them have offers. I have just received multiple offers on my Grove Street listing in Oconomowoc, and have heard from other agents who have similarly priced properties for sale, that they are receiving competing offers, as well. Wow!
What does this mean? I think it means that buyers are heeding the advice to stop waiting for the so called bottom of the market, and are moving to receive excellent deals at great prices with great rates, while also cashing in on the $8000 first time home buyer credit. Buyers can no longer afford to wait if they want to cash in on the many opportunities that are available, AND receive their tax credit.
If you are a first time home buyer, and would like to have a free, no obligation analysis of your ability to purchase your first home, please call me at 262-567-8302 ext. 239.
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If you have read my past blog posts, you may have noticed that youth sailing is a topic that I am passionate about. All three of my boys are sailors. It’s a great sport, filled with camaraderie, challenge, unique opportunity, and the list goes on.
Each summer, my kids and I participate on the regatta circuit, and on Lake Geneva, during their annual youth race week. This year was no exception, however, we did have a new twist. My middle son opted to skip the Lake Geneva event, and participated in the Kazube Cup, hosted by South Shore Yacht Club. We have never done this event in the past, but have heard that it’s such a fun regatta.
The regatta features optis, 420’s and lasers. Kids come from Greater Milwaukee, as well as from other yacht clubs around Lake Michigan, such as Chicago, Lake Forest, Waukegan, etc. The beauty of the event is that for the opti sailors, they can test their skills in Lake Michigan, and sleep on a “big boat” sailboat. Members open their cabins to sailors who request housing, provided they have a minimum number of kids on the boat, and an adult chaperone. Can you say “fun” with a capital F?? What a treat for a young sailor! Sailing in Lake Michigan, with the city backdrop is a treat for sailors and spectators, alike.
The host club provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, in addition to the regatta fee, at a very reasonable rate. My son had a fabulous time with good friends, sailing his boat and enjoying a night on a sleeper sailboat. The “MOM” in me can’t help but note that the best part of the event for him was the fact that the regatta fell on top of his birthday, and he won the opti event. Happy Birthday, Parker!
Summer sailing in Southeastern Wisconsin, is just one more reason to love living here!
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When pricing your home, it is critical to understand how various factors and trends in the market, may affect your price. At Shorewest, we monitor those trends, and convey the information to our sellers through the use of market absorption graphs, months of inventory reports, rate of sales reports, home value worksheets, and many other tools. By using these items, you can price your home on the cutting edge of the market, increasing your likelihood of receiving an offer, for the highest price, in a timely manner. One tool that is helpful in determining price in conjunction with the items listed above, is a report that tracks sales by price. Attached, is a recent report of sales by price, in the Lake Country area. To learn about the significance of this graph, call me 414.975.9659 or visit my website. I’d be happy to explain how this graph not only maps sales, but also can assist you in pinpointing a sales price
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Americana on the 4th of July! Here it is…a calendar of fireworks and parades for Waukesha County. Just click here for a complete listing. I have to say, my favorite spot on the 4th is watching the fireworks being shot over one of the beautiful lakes, in downtown Oconomowoc. This year, we’ll enjoy them on Fowler Lake. Of course, one can’t help seeing the surrounding lakes shoot off theirs. Okauchee and Oconomowoc Lake usually have some, as does the Village of Lac LaBelle. If you happen to miss fireworks on the 4th, you may catch them again on August 9th from the Oconomowoc City Beach, being shot from a barge on Lac LaBelle, for the annual Parade of Lights Celebration. For a calendar of Oconomowoc Summer events visit my Oconomowoc Blog.
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In spite of a questionable start, summer has arrived in Wisconsin, and with it, comes the youth sailing season. A “boat load” of regattas are available for kids to attend. Last weekend, young teens showed up on North Lake, for the annual QUINT regatta. Sailors from North Lake, Lac LaBelle, Pewaukee, Nagawicka and Okauchee sailed a very challenging regatta due to very little, and ever shifting breezes. 20+ boats were on the line, and the event ended with the top three skippers, tying for points and using a tie breaker for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Home lake skipper, Blake Kenney and crew, won the tie breaker and the 1st place overall finish.
Thursday, we found our young opti sailors on Okauchee Lake for the LOP’N Regatta.( LaBelle, Okauchee, Pewaukee and Nagawicka) The morning was inviting with steady breezes from 5-10mph. The 20 boats were sailed in one course, with designations for junior or senior status, by age. One of the younger skippers, Henry Chapman, son of a local boat dealer, showed up the “big boys” with a stunning win on the first race. The second race was won by home lake skipper, Tommy Groskopf. After lunch, a fast approaching wind shift and weather front, brought in the winds of 15-20mph, sending all of the junior skippers except for Henry, in to shore. The remaining senior skippers, raced two more exciting races, with back to back photo finishes. Ethan Heinze of Nagawicka and Trevor Trepton of LaBelle, duked it out at the finish, with 
Trepton nudging into the first place spot. The last, and fourth race of the day, was in heavy wind, also. Kids were hiking out of their boats, and using their skills to maneuver a course in heavy air. Trepton and Pewaukee skipper David Winquist, were neck in neck on the last downwind, and finished the race in a very exciting upwind tacking duel. Trepton inched ahead at the finish, to win the race, and the overall first place title in the senior fleet. Henry Chapman secured the overall first place finish in the junior fleet.
Youth sailing is just one of the many activities that makes Lake Country Wisconsin, a great place to be in the summer.
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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One of the best things about the “Power of Shorewest”, is that our management team does whatever is necessary to supply us, as agents, with the most current and effective information, in which to educate our buyers and sellers about the market. I just left a very informative conference regarding national housing trends, and specifically, how those trends affect our local Southeastern Wisconsin real estate market. Our guest speaker, a national real estate expert, left us with the message that “Realtors can help save the world economy!” I didn’t exactly sign on as a “world economic savior” when I received my license, however, in all seriousness, the fact that the world economy is tied to the United States economy, and the U.S. economy is driven, in large part by housing, does put Realtors® in a unique position of educating our buyers and sellers about how their home buying and selling decisions can assist in stopping the downward spiral of the housing market.
The biggest questions buyers and sellers alike are asking is, “Where is the bottom of this downturn?”, and “Is now a good time to buy or sell, or should I wait?” Let’s start with the first question.
According to some recent reports
, Washington sources are saying, “WASHINGTON -Single family construction posted a modest rebound in April, raising hopes that the three-year slide in housing is leveling off. But a bulging supply of unsold homes, record levels of foreclosures and still-falling home prices suggest a sustained recovery isn’t likely until next spring at the earliest.” Foreclosures are still on the rise, with reports on Bloomberg.com stating that as many as 700,000 homes are still being held in the wings, by major U.S. lenders, and are yet to hit the market, affirming the article cited above. So, is this the bottom?? If it isn’t, it’s close.
Now, let’s look at the second question…
Even if there is a bit more room in pricing regarding hitting the “price bottom”, rates are starting to inch back up. The Feds have stepped in to artificially control this trend, but eventually, the normal course of free economics will supercede, and rates will climb. The trade off between price and rate, may indicate that now is the time to act. To read more about this, check out a recent article
on my personal blog.
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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It’s official. School’s out for summer! For many of you, this happened a few weeks back, but in many public schools across Southeastern Wisconsin, this week marked the end of the 2008-2009 school year.
For residents of Oconomowoc Area School District, this year was especially eventful. We saw the completion and opening of two new, state of the art, intermediate schools; Nature Hill Intermediate and Silver Lake Intermediate. These beautiful facilities serve grades 5-8. The grouping of these ages is a new trend among communities, and slightly modifies the traditional middle school system of 6th - 8th grades. Students are grouped by floor and grade, with most of their classrooms revolving around a POD format.
As a parent of 3 boys, all of whom attend schools in the Oconomowoc system, I was thrilled to see my youngest and my middle son, thrive at Nature Hill. I’ve always been an advocate for Oconomowoc Schools, but the technology and resources available to the teachers in these classrooms was incredible! Teachers were able to incorporate lessons into a DVD format for projection on their permanent, in classroom, media screen, which was linked to their desktops. These “smart screens” also allowed for viewing a wide array of multi-media. The teachers were also treated to teacher resource/conference rooms for their respective bases, allowing for greater teacher interaction and planning, within the school day.
The elective course facilities include, but are not limited to individual Band, Orchestra and Choir Rooms, an Art Studio complete with a neighboring Graphic Design Studio, a multi-purpose stage and presentation area, a flexible gymnasium complete with rock climbing wall, and the list goes on.
A favorite of the Nature Hill facility, that cannot go unmentioned, is Nature Hill itself. Nature Hill boasts some of the most beautiful walking trails, complete with several examples of various eco-systems and a charming creek. Students are treated to a “rocking” sledding hill in the winter, and stimulating biology and science lessons on the Hill, throughout the year.
In addition to these new schools, Oconomowoc welcomed the absolutely stunning, Oconomowoc Arts Center, which is attached to the High School. If you haven’t been there yet, please come! This facility is going to be a hallmark of the Performing Arts in Oconomowoc, for years to come. OHS has a proud tradition in the arts, and this center only enhances the wonderful talent that is home to the Oconomowoc community.
Last, but not least, I would be remiss if I did not mention the International Baccalaureate program, offered in addition to, Advanced Placement classes. Students can now earn an IB Diploma, from a school within a school, so to speak. IB diplomas are recognized throughout the world, as a standard for academic excellence. OASD is one of a handful of school districts offering this program. My eldest son will be participating in the IB program, and we are eager to see him test his mettle with this rigorous academic curriculum. You can read more about all of these topics by going to http://www.oasd.k12.wi.us.
So, for now, we turn our attention to the matters at hand; swimming, biking, sailing, tennis playing, baseball, picnics, outdoor festivals and concerts, and all things summer! If your summer plans include house hunting in the Lake Country area, give Oconomowoc a nod. Call me. I’d love to show you some of what makes it a great place to live!
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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The new Aurora Medical Facility in the Town of Summit, located next to Pabst Farms, in Oconomowoc, will be opening this fall, months ahead of schedule. Poised to provide state of the art medical services for Oconomowoc and Southeastern Waukesha County , the facility will enhance the community with its services and job opportunities. 
Many residents feel that the influx of professionals to staff the facility, will be another plus for the housing community in Oconomowoc and surrounding townships. Not to be outdone, Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital , is undergoing several enhancements to its facility, as well.
If you are a medical professional, and would like to live in a beautiful community and work with the best, call me www.karentrepton.shorewest.com. I’d love to show you some of the fabulous housing opportunities that await in Oconomowoc, and the surrounding areas.
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If you are looking for something fun and worthwhile to do this weekend, check out the fabulous project going on in Oconomowoc. This week, Oconomowoc area residents realize the birth of the long awaited project…The “Oconomowoc Imagination Station!” This universally accessible playground is the dream project of many local volunteers. It truly is a “village” project, from the design stage to the implementation of the construction itself. Area businesses and family members of all ages are showing up to donate time, food, and talents to complete this project.
As of today, Friday, they still can use workers, but are especially in need of food donations for the workers. Please view this link for more information on what you can do to help out. See you in Oconomowoc!
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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As a Realtor®, for Shorewest in the Lake Country area, transferees often ask me about the “Lake Country Lifestyle”. “What are the schools like? How is the shopping? Where can we find interesting and unique things to do relative to the arts and entertainment?” Of course, all of Southeastern Wisconsin enjoys the beautiful attributes of Greater Milwaukee. In addition to the shops and restaurants in Milwaukee County, Waukesha County offers many wonderful and diverse places to eat, recreate, and shop.
One of my newfound favorites is a fair trade shop, called “Trails to Bridges”, in Hartland. Starting as a home-based business, the owner eventually went to a small retail space, and ultimately, the storefront shop she just opened. She, and her husband, personally visit and become familiar with the people behind the items she sells. I was first introduced to their unique items via a visit the owner made to my local church, in Oconomowoc. She effectively turned our fellowship area into a “smorgasbord” of wonderful and exotic hand-made articles from around the world.
A member of the Fair Trade Federation, “Trails to Bridges” assists in lifting families from some of the world’s poorest locations, out of a lifestyle of poverty, by supplying a fair and equitable business system in which to market their wares. The Realtor® in me finds this especially honorable. In spite of challenging economic times, Wisconsin residents enjoy a very high standard of living, as compared to the world at large. I have the unique pleasure of sharing this wonderful and prosperous lifestyle of Lake Country with my clients and customers. It’s nice to know that by patronizing a local merchant, we can all do a small part in passing along some economic success to those whose challenges far outweigh our own.
So, next time you may be out looking for something unique and special, check out “Trails to Bridges” on E Capitol, in downtown Hartland.
Posted by:Karen Trepton
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Contrary to the belief of some home sellers, NOW is a good time to sell! Mortgage rates are still at historic lows. Pair the rates with the $8000 first time homebuyer credit, and the climate is very favorable for buyers and sellers.
This provides a savings of over $200 per month, and approximately $77,000 over 30 years.Karen Trepton
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I admit that I’m a sucker for new technology. Never one for reading the directions, I usually tend to grasp the new gadget and try it out, expecting to fall into the “expert mode” by barraging those around me who have “superior knowledge” of the particular device with a steady stream of “How do I do this?” questions. This always poses the risk of a steep learning curve, but I’m an all in it, kind of gal. I had a Macintosh Quadra years ago that would capture VHS video onto your computer…very cool…so as to eliminate the ol’ glue stick process for photos, on real estate flyers. I carried around a purse size, hand held recorder to jog my memory of the most recent FSBO’s (For Sale By Owners). I couldn’t be bothered with pulling over and jotting down an address. I moved my way up into the “bag phone” (Now I’m dating myself), and ultimately the cell phone. I believe I’m on my 4th phone (recent purchase a Blackberry). I have more than one desktop pc and a very cool laptop, complete with a the wireless card.
Now I’m blogging, facebooking, twittering, chirping and tweeting. I may be at risk for “twitter thumb”! Mind you, I’m always all over my teen age kids about “putting down the electronics”, to have a face to face conversation. I do realize, however, that a phone with a dead battery, can make you twitchy!
My husband is the opposite of me when it comes to grasping the technological age. It must be a latent “cave man” gene. He’s all about using the essentials, however, when his work day is done, he does not want to twitter, browse the internet for old friends, answer a cell phone or the home phone for that matter, or scour various resources for the latest popping news. He’s about a nice glass of red wine while watching his beloved Brewers, in the “Man Cave”. “Where’s the excitement, the fun, the obsession?”
Why am I talking about this, you may wonder? I am setting out to discover whether or not my enthusiasm for all things new and different will be worth the time that it takes to actually be involved in the process of “electronic connection”. Will my opinions, quips and tweets about the happenings in my local, regional and national real estate market be read by anyone? Will my knowledge about the market assist someone who’s on the fence about a home sale or purchase? Will someone discover the fabulous lifestyle that awaits in Lake Country Wisconsin by reading this blog? Who knows? But for someone who lives with teenagers and a semi-evolved, self professed “Cave-lover”, touching base for conversation and knowledge is as Martha Stewart says, “A Good Thing.”
I hope that you will find my additions interesting and helpful. In the meantime, while I transition over to this site, you can read some recent posts about Oconomowoc news on my personal blog.
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Karen Trepton
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Shorewest - Lake Country
1296 Summit Avenue
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
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