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!