** This article was originally written by Samantha Haas while a member of our team. You can learn more about Samantha and her work here. 

There are pleasant surprises around every corner at 5818 County Road KP in the Town of Berry, located between Middleton and Mazomanie. This gorgeous countryside property is tucked away from view, providing a secluded setting within the Driftless Area while just a short drive from local amenities.

Towering trees line the winding driveway, offering ample shade and room to meander through the expansive yard -- perfect for hosting family events, corporate gatherings, and even weddings.

Situated atop the hill is the nearly 4,000-square-foot home, its stone accents blending beautifully into the natural

In Wisconsin, the rate of obesity has doubled in the last 15 years.  The Wisconsin State Journal discusses the epidemic in a recent article, and notes that Madison is one of the healthier areas of the state. One of the reasons for Madison's healthier situation? The city has beautiful parks scattered all over town, and park use includes more exercise opportunities.

Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) saw a need in the youth community for more physical activity, and decided to use the parks to encourage more movement. With this in mind, they launched the Fit2Go program in 2013. The program connects area parks with a mobile fitness kit. A large van is packed with toys and equipment to make fitness fun. The decorated van travels all over the city,

** This article was originally written by Samantha Haas while a member of our team. You can learn more about Samantha and her work here. 

There’s something about being outside that makes listening to music that much sweeter. And Dane County has an abundance of free outdoor venues -- from local parks and breweries to Capitol Square -- for bands to play tunes almost every day of the week during the warm summer months. You might want to keep your lawn chair and picnic basket handy, as some concerts allow carry-ins to make your visit more comfortable. 

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list. Be sure to check the websites for musician details and any event cancellations.

Mondays

• June 11 - July 30: NESCO’s Summer Concerts at Warner

** This article was originally written by Samantha Haas while a member of our team. You can learn more about Samantha and her work here. 

Landscaping runs deep in the Ganshert family, who’ve owned Ganshert Nursery & Landscapes, LLC for over 65 years. Peter Ganshert started the Madison area business back in 1951, and the company eventually moved from its downtown Erin Street location to Seminole Highway. At that time farmers doubted he could make a living by growing plant material, and yet he did.

Back then you’d hire multiple companies to do your landscaping, and we were the company that did your planting, design, and installation. And then there were specialty companies that did walls, brick, grading, and so on,” said Peter’s son, Paul Ganshert.

We've just completed our mid-year home and condo updates, and the latest numbers show the seller's market is alive and well in the city of Madison. Here's our quick overview of the latest trends in the Madison real estate market. 

The Madison condo market

Madison condo supply is historically low and driving prices higher. Take a look at the graph below, which shows how the number of available condo listings has changed from July, 2015 to July, 2018. Amazingly, active condo listings have decreased by 48% over the last 3 years. 

Over the same 3-year stretch condo supply has dipped to well below 2 months of inventory. This historically low number is indicative of a very strong seller's market. 

Condos are also selling much more quickly

There is a party planned on Saturday, and all are invited. With live music, fun and games, the 3rd Annual West Fest promises to be a fun way to spend the day. West Fest is designed to celebrate diversity and build community. Elver Park offers the perfect venue. The park offers beautiful nature trails, a variety of sports options, an indoor shelter, playgrounds, and, of course, a splash pad, which will be key in keeping things cool.

With community-building in mind, the event planners have created a long list of contests and activities to include all ages. Events include a Father/Son basketball tournament, lots of free carnival games for kids, a bouncy house and live music and entertainment.  Seniors are encouraged to come out for BINGO (with prizes).

Although many price points and locations in the Madison area have become long-term seller's markets, the month of July offers a good window of opportunity if you're still looking for the right home or condo in 2018. The reason is buyer competition decreases predictably in July, as the graph below shows. 

In fact, buyer activity will be much more subdued for the rest of the year compared to the feverish pace we experienced this Spring. Many families will be focused on their summer vacation, the coming school year, and the holiday season before their attention returns to real estate. Then buyer demand will rise predictably again in early 2019. 

More balance means more opportunity for buyers

A more balanced market means there will be fewer

Shake the Lake may be over, but there are several fireworks events to be enjoyed this week. The Wisconsin State Journal has a solid list of them here.

But if you're looking for fun that lasts all day, or even all week long, look no further than the Stoughton Fair. The annual fair kicks off Wednesday morning at the Stoughton Fairgrounds (Mandt Park). This five day event celebrates agriculture, community and old-fashioned neighborly fun. At 9 a.m., you can watch the beef show. Then, starting at noon, there are carnival rides for all ages.  Rides are purchased by ticket, or a wristband may be purchased for a full-day's use. Buy your wristband by Tuesday night, and receive discounted rates. Live music continues throughout the afternoon, with Josh