The Wisconsin Realtors Association (WRA) continues to evaluate and improve the approved forms that realtors are allowed to use in the representation of our Bear Clients.   When the WRA implements new forms it provides for a transition period.  During this time both the current form and the new form may be used. 

Bear Realty Agents are dedicated to providing the highest quality services to our cutomers and clients in the purchase of their new Single Family Home, Investment or Commerical Property.  In doing so, Bear Realty is committed to using the most current forms available from the WRA. 

In that way, we can ensure that your transaction allows for the highest level of representation and information available.

In today’s world of “information on demand” and “tips at your fingertips” it might seem that representation from a real estate professional is a luxury and an adventure that some may want to journey on their own.  Actually, nothing could be further from the truth.  That may seem a bit obvious given that I am a sales manager, work for Bear Realty and represent some of the best agents in Southeastern Wisconsin and Northeastern Illinois but the fact of the matter is this – Today’s market demands strong negotiation skills and representation is critical. 

Many sellers today think of their homes in terms of yesterday’s value – given that a home enables a strong emotional tie, it can be easy to over value the small nuances and forget that a buyer doesn’t see all those special little personal attributes that you built into your home.  Of course, your agent will work to get you the most for your property – the challenge is to remember that it isn’t the agent that sets the eventual price for your home – it is actually a function of the market.  Supply and demand, as always, is the name of the game and remembering your motivation to sell your home today is a key aspect of ensuring that you are successful all the way to the close.

On the other hand, Buyers believe that low-ball offers is the best way to get the home of their dreams.  unfortunately many buyers are losing out on the home they have their hearts set on because they are outbid by another buyer.  A Bear agent will educate buyers to make sure that they understand what the local real estate market supports as far as a “winning offer”.

Bear agents not only give strong representation and negotiating skills, they also serve as a buffer, a sounding board, a source of market information and the voice to get your property properly marketed.

There has not been a market like today’s market in years – oddly enough, there is no better time to have your home up for sale if you are considering a move.  Today’s real estate market is a benefit to home sellers from the perspective that buyers have the Government New Home Buyers Tax Credit as well as the addition if the $6500.00 Existing Home Buyers Tax Credit.  That program coupled with low-interest rates are enticing buyers to get into the market today.  The tax credit will come to its end in April and interest rates are adjusting daily.

If you are considering selling your home – call your Bear Realty agent today – there is no time like the present to have Bear on your side!

Nationwide, Realtors are always keeping their fingers on the pulse of legislation that would have an impact on the real estate market and the overall effects that proposed policy will have on our clients.

Today’s hot topic is the Federal “Cap and Trade” bill.  With strong local support, the National Association of Realtors have been able to address elements of the proposed bill.  NAR focued on an amendment to cut the overall cost of the bill relating to the purchase and sale of Single Family Homes, Multi-Family investment properties and Commerical properties.

One area of success has been the removal of “several real estate-related provisions such as federal energy audit requirements from homeowners and various point-of-sale triggers” (Jan 2010 Wisconsin Real Estate Mag pg 24)

As stated in the Wisconsin Real Estate Magazine many controversial issues still remain.

With the help of our clients, communities and concerned citizens these issues can be addressed at the grass-roots level.  Regardless of your opinion – Your opinion counts!  Contact your local representatives and let them know your thoughts on:

- Exempting existing homes, multi-family homes and commercial buildings from any federal guidelines such as the existing federal Energy Star labeling program;

- Authorizations provided to state governments to pass a law to label homes according to their energy efficiency, but specifically prohibiting labeling during the sales transaction;

- prohibiting the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating carbon emissions for residential and commercial buildings under the Clean Air Act;

- Providing property owners with matching grants and diagnostic tools to make energy-saving property improvements; and

- Creates green building financial incentives for HUD housing, including loans, block grants and underwriting for energy improvements.

Click the link provided to find your local Wisconsin State Representatives information -

http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/contact/legislatorslist.aspx?house=assembly

Remember – Your voice deserves to be heard!

The last few years have definitely provided much challenege concerning the real estate market and not what any real estate agent might call “fun” however; to every curse there is a blessing….to every cloud a “silver lining”.  When you look to find a real estate agent today for your prized first home purchase or your look to move up into the home of your dreams you will be working with a realtor that has earned his/her salt!

Todays real estate agents need to be prepared to truly negotiate on your behalf – to work hard for your best interest, to hold their ground to meet your desired outcome.  Now, to keep it real, there is always a bit a give and take but the real estate agent of today will be the one that is ready to stand fast for you.

As a client – your agent will be presenting market trends, suggesting various lenders, a number of vender services such as inspectors, handyman services and the like but the heart of the deal is the negotiation and your agent today is better prepared than ever to make that deal come together for you.

The past few years have acted as a “sifting” of our profession – and, as Darwin would say…..only the strong survive!  You have within your communities, the strong, the well-equipped and the true Real Estate Professionals…..

Take some time to talk to a few agents – even if your not interested in moving right now – see how well they know their market, their area and various aspects of the real estate trade.

I think you will be pleasantly surprised how informed today’s real estate agent is and maybe even enlightened as to how much goes into a new home purchase.

2010 holds much promise – got into it with reserved excitement – but go into with a professional on your side!