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        <title>Mad City Dream Homes Real Estate Blog, Madison WI</title>
        <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/2023-06/</link>
        <description>Your Madison WI real estate blog. News &amp; views about Madison area homes, condos &amp; South Central Wisconsin real estate. Questions? Call 608-852-7071</description>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/elevate-and-increase-the-value-of-your-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/elevate-and-increase-the-value-of-your-home.html</link>
        <title>Elevate Your Home and Increase its Value </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Creating a beautiful home requires love and care. Whether you are considering selling your current home or upgrading the look and feel, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to elevate your house. 


1. Fresh Look 


A new coat of paint can freshen up the look and feel of your home. You can say goodbye to peeling paint, wall stains, and dull walls. By simply painting the interior of your home, you can make your home look new and modern. 


2. Go neutral


When selecting a new color for your home, it is advised to go with neutral colors, especially if you are considering selling your home. By painting your home in a neutral color, potential buyers have the ability to imagine how they would decorate the home and make it theirs. 


3. Make a room look bigger


Painting the interior of your home with light colors can help make your home feel more spacious. This can also help create more light reflection as well as accentuate spaces that have lots of natural light coming into the house. Avoid painting it with bright colors- it  can make your home feel overwhelming and, at times, can make a room feel smaller than it really is. 


4. Paint during dry weather


It’s important to note that you want to paint during the dry weather and avoid humidity and rainy days when possible. Humidity can slow down the paint from drying and can cause drips on the paint if not carefully done. 


5. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro


While it can be cheaper to paint your home yourself, hiring a pro can be quite beneficial. A painting pro can make recommendations on different types of paints and they can guide you in making the right selection for your home based on your needs and wants. With years of experience, if an unexpected issue comes up while painting, a pro has the ability to act quickly and communicate the best approach to solving the issue. It is best to hire a painting professional so they can handle any painting issues that come up. 


We hope these tips help you elevate the look and feel of your home. Whether you are upgrading it or selling it, a fresh coat of paint is certain to make a big difference.
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    <pubDate>Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:27:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/nonprofit-spotlight-gsafe.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/nonprofit-spotlight-gsafe.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Nonprofit Spotlight: GSAFE</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
** This article was originally written by Samantha Haas while a member of our team. You can learn more about Samantha and her work here. 


Happy Pride Month We spoke with GSAFE co-executive director Brian J. to learn more about how the nonprofit creates just schools for LGBTQ+ youth in Wisconsin. 


Brian has been involved with GSAFE since 1998 as a volunteer and joined the staff in 2002, and he wants to build a better place for kids – especially those who don’t conform to gender role expectations and have other marginalized identities – by creating safe and affirming spaces for the next generation. “I want to make sure students don’t have the same experience I had growing up as a closeted queer kid in rural Iowa in the ‘80s who faced bullying, harassment, and isolation,” he said. 


GSAFE helps develop the leadership of LGBTQ+ youth, supports Gender and Sexuality Alliances, trains educators, advances educational justice, and deepens racial, gender, trans, and social justice. “Wisconsin was fortunate because it already had some basic protections for at least lesbian, gay, and bisexual students in place, as well as for educators – not that they were always being followed. Unlike some states, we didn't have to fight to get protections for students or staff based on sexual orientation. But we still have that fight for gender identity,” Brian said. “For example, we’ve worked with school districts to create nondiscrimination policies for trans students. We're able to focus on building student leaders and providing education for educators as opposed to just getting simple protection so that students could form clubs and talk about these topics in schools.”





Over the last three decades, GSAFE has been working alongside educators and administrators to “help them improve their skills and learn how to create a safe, affirming, and more inclusive space for our queer, trans, and nonbinary kids,” Brian said. GSAFE has seen an uptick in requests from students and educators, particularly since 2016 when the political landscape shifted and in 2020 due to the pandemic. “There’s been a heightened scrutiny around schools, because it's become politically advantageous for some to target efforts that help students of color and LGBT youth feel included and supported. Of course, those aren't mutually exclusive. Organizations have also been eager to sue school districts for doing the right thing to support students, both on the statewide and national level. This has created a chilling effect on schools, in that some schools that had previously been interested in trainings or engaging in best practices have started to retreat. On the flip side, others are doubling down that their role as public schools is to support students.”


In addition to professional development and advocacy work, GSAFE also hosts multiple leadership conferences, classes, and a camp throughout the year for students. The goal is to connect “student advocates from across the state to break isolation and to help them build community with each other,” Brian said.


So, how can the average citizen in Wisconsin support LGBTQIA+ students and staff on a local level? One way is to pay attention to the meetings and makeup of your school boards. “Whether or not you have kids in school, let them know you’re a voter and resident of the community who really values and supports the things that we know keep LGBT students and youth of color safe in school. Because it's really easy not to make noise, and it can get very scary for school leaders when there's a small but vocal group pushing them to adopt repressive measures and policies. It's an all-hands-on-deck political moment. The crisis is happening right now, and students can’t afford to have folks stand on the sidelines,” Brian said.





And, regardless of the amount you are able to donate, invest in organizations that are doing this work, such as GSAFE. “If a whole bunch of really thoughtful people across our state signed up to donate just $5 a month, we could hire a lawyer to push back against policies that harm kids, for example. Together we can actually make a huge impact.” To learn more, visit gsafewi.org. 


GSAFE also holds community events and fundraisers that you can attend and support, such as:




Oct. 12, 2023: Citywide youth production of The Laramie Project in recognition of the 25-year anniversary of Matthew Shepard’s murder.


Oct. 15, 2023: Annual Trick or Trot Walk/Run with the theme “Mermaids vs. Pirates” beginning at Franklin Elementary School.


Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2023: Annual Quilt and Fiber Art Online Auction with the theme of &quot;In Rainbowland.&quot; Donations are encouraged by Oct. 31st.







(Photos courtesy of GSAFE)
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:53:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/who-do-you-need-to-be-referred-to.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/who-do-you-need-to-be-referred-to.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Who do you need to be referred to?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Recently we've connected our friends with landscapers, lawn mowers, cleaners, house washers, carpet cleaners, painters, HVAC companies, handymen, electricians, plumbers, flooring companies, roofers, window specialists, foundation repair specialists, movers, home inspectors, radon mitigation specialists, insurance agents, attorneys, lenders, graphic designers, interior designers, stagers, and photographers.


So, how can we help you? 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 06:20:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/when-generosity-is-combined-with-humility-effort-and-teamwork.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/when-generosity-is-combined-with-humility-effort-and-teamwork.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>When generosity is combined with humility, effort and teamwork...</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The benefits over the long run can be life-changing, but in sneaky and subtle ways. 


When we surround ourselves with generous, hardworking, and humble people, we surround ourselves with people who model good habits and a positive attitude for us. We essentially become teachers and students to each other. And slowly but surely, day by day, we become a little more creative, a little more effective, and a little more resilient.


If this is the type of career culture that you are drawn to and that you would like to contribute to as well, then we would love to hear from you. We're always up for meeting the person who could turn out to be the next great fit for our team. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 24 Jun 2023 06:35:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/its-officially-summer.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/its-officially-summer.html</link>
        <title>It's Officially Summer</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Summer is finally here and so are the hottest days of the year. While our lovely Wisconsin brings us magical winters, we finally get the opportunity to spend time outside in nature with family and friends. From free concerts off the square, to going to the farmer’s market on Saturdays to family gatherings and parties- there’s plenty of things to do





Hellen Keller once said, “Keep your face to the sunshine and you will never see the shadows”. As Wisconsinites, we spend an average of 4 to 6 months indoors due to our freezing cold  winters and month-long gray skies. This can result in low levels of production of Vitamin D which is responsible for assisting us in boosting our immune system, contributes to bone and muscle health, reduces inflammation, and reduces stress. More importantly, by spending more time outside in nature, our bodies can produce more Vitamin D which in turn fights depression by increasing Serotonin- the happiness hormone. 


It is crucial for us to take advantage of our summer days. This is the time to take a break from our busy routines to enjoy that family vacation on the beachside or simply enjoy a weekend getaway up north of Wisconsin. If you find you are not able to travel, you can still go outside every day. You can take a short walk, go cycling, or set up a small picnic next to the lake. No matter how far or close to home you go, as long as you get to spend time outside, your body, your mind and soul will surely be grateful for it. What are you waiting for, go out there and enjoy the sunshine today
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:12:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/work-as-art.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/work-as-art.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Work as art</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
We admire our stager, Debbie Lea, for how she approaches her work as a craft. Not because she has to. But because she wants to. 


Over the years Debbie has modeled for each of us, over and over again, how we can view our work as an opportunity to create art. And now each of us has become a stager in our own right. 


Remember, when you hire Mad City Dream Homes to represent you during your sale, you receive Debbie's artistry (and the dedication of our entire team) free of charge. Stay tuned for a few examples of Debbie's work (and our team's work) from earlier this year....Coming soon.  
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 05:04:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-condo-prices-continue-to-rise-in-may.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-condo-prices-continue-to-rise-in-may.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Madison area condo prices continue to rise in May</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Dane County condo prices continued to post large year-over-year increases in the month of May. Here's our latest Madison area condo report updated for the month of May, 2023.


Dane County condo prices


Condo prices increased by all measures in the month of May. The price per square foot increased 19 percent; the median 10 percent; and the average 20 percent. Note, condo prices can fluctuate greatly due to the relatively low number of condos being sold in any given month.


When we look at prices year-to-date, the increases are still quite strong. The price per square foot was up 7 through the first 5 months of the year. The median was up 12, and the average was up 11.





New MLS condo listings


Only 135 condominium listings were posted to the MLS in May, which was a decrease of 23 from last year. Through the first five months of the year, listings are also down 23.  Higher mortgage rates are causing many would-be sellers to pause and put their real estate plans on hold.





Active condo listings


The number of available listings (those without an accepted offer) remains low in the Madison area. There are actually fewer condos available for purchase right now than there were at the same time last year.





Competing offers


The percentage of condo listings receiving multiple offers has been very high in 2023. Note from the chart below that the percentage will dip as it normally does during the second half of the year. Buyers who remain patient and persistent will find more opportunities opening up to them in the summer market.





Accepted offers


Less inventory has limited the number of contracts written during the first half of the year.





Dane County condo sales


Condo sales (or closings) continue to trend lower, too. 





Days on market


Condo marketing times have risen slightly in 2023, but remain very low when compared to most other years this century. 





What are your condominium goals in 2023?


Whether you're planning to buy or sell (or both), it can be tremendously helpful to talk to an expert about your individual situation and plan ahead. We're always available to help our clients plan for their future. It's one of the most rewarding aspects of our job, and we're here to help you plan for your future, too. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 04:19:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-home-prices-continue-to-rise-in-may.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-home-prices-continue-to-rise-in-may.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Madison area home prices continue to rise in May</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Home prices continue to rise in Dane County, and by all measures. Here's our latest single family home update for the month of May, 2023. 


Dane County home prices


The price per square foot increased to $229, which was a new record for our market and up 5 percent year-over-year. The median price was $449,900, which was up 6 percent. And the average price was $517,046 (up 8 percent). 





New MLS listings


Only 585 single family homes were listed for sale last month, which was the second lowest total for the month of May this century. Higher mortgage rates are causing many would-be sellers to pause and put their real estate plans on hold. 





Active listings


Right now there are fewer active single family home listings (those without accepted offers) than there were at this time last year. Only 1 month of home supply is available across all of Dane County. 


 


Competing offers


Now that our first quarter data is mostly finalized, it's clear a lower percentage of listings have been receiving multiple offers this year. We do expect our preliminary numbers for the month of April to drop once more of our data is in. A lower percentage of competing offers is good for the market and for controlling home prices, but it's important to note that competing offers are still very high compared to most other years in the recent past. 


 


Accepted offers


With fewer buyers in the market, and fewer homes to buy, accepted offers continue to trend lower in 2023. 





Madison area home sales


Similarly, Dane County home sales are trending much lower, too. 


 


Days on market


Days on market have risen slightly in the Madison area, but still remain very low when compared to almost every other year this century. 


 


The months ahead


We do expect a sellers' market for the foreseeable future, but due to the seasonal nature of our market, market conditions will become a little more friendly to buyers during the second half of the year. Buyers who remain patient and persistent will be the ones who are eventually rewarded with a home in 2023. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jun 2023 14:25:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/nature-our-long-lost-friend.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/nature-our-long-lost-friend.html</link>
        <title>Nature - Our long lost friend</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Have you ever realized how much time you spend on electronic devices? The average American spends between 5 to 7 hours per day with the majority of that time being spent on social media, scrolling endlessly through an abundance of content. Sometimes we even get to the point where our eyes are hurting just from looking at the screens. We spend our lives looking at our screens but we are forgetting that there is an entire life waiting to be explored in nature. 





Spending time in nature can bring our mind clarity. Our brains are bombarded with smart advertising and insurmountable amounts of information every second, it can become exhausting for our brains to process all of it. Stepping away from screens can help our minds think more clearly. When we go for a simple walk, our mind can shift to the present moment as we observe and admire the beauty of nature that surrounds us.  


 Nature is a free and easy way to calm the mind and body. When you are feeling stressed or sad, spending time in nature can regulate your heart rate as well as your breathing. It is important to get a daily dose of Vitamin D- sunlight. Living in Wisconsin, we get limited amounts of sunlight on a yearly basis since our winters are long and filled with gray skies. We must take full advantage of the summertime while it's here and spend time outside away from our smartphones, laptops and TV’s. 


 Lastly, nature brings us even closer with our family and friends. When was the last time you played baseball with your kids or went on a bike ride with your friends? The more time we spend on our devices, the less time we spend in our actual relationships. The more time we spend in nature with our family and friends, the stronger our connections will be. We can develop more profound relationships by having face-to-face interactions. When we do this, we can read body language, notice voice tones, read facial expressions- all of these result in improved and effective communication. 


 Take some time this weekend to disconnect from your devices and reconnect with nature, family and friends. Allow yourself to enjoy the present moment, immerse in the beauty of nature and restore your energy while you explore the world.


 


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:20:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/national-headlines-vs-local-reality.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/national-headlines-vs-local-reality.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>National Headlines vs Local Reality </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
If you do a Google search to learn more about the housing market, these are some of the headlines and articles that you will find: 




Home prices are finally declining…


Home prices just broke a decade-long streak…


Housing Market: Home Prices Post First Yearly Decrease In 11 Years…




Once you get past the headline you might see details similar to what was posted on CNN.com:  


&quot;Regionally, prices fell more from a year ago in the West (down 5.6) and Northeast (down 4.5), where housing is more expensive. But prices were still climbing from last year in the South (up 2.7) and the Midwest (up 5).&quot;


It is important to look past the headlines and talk to local experts. Prices are not declining in Dane County. Our latest market update shows that prices rose again in the month of May, and by all measures.





The low supply of homes on the market continues to keep prices strong in our area. If you are curious about what your home is worth or if you want more information about our local market, please reach out to our team to get a conversation started. We're here to help
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:19:00 -0500</pubDate>
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