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        <title>Mad City Dream Homes Real Estate Blog, Madison WI</title>
        <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/</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>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/senior-transitions.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/senior-transitions.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Senior transitions</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
For many seniors, the decision to downsize is one of the biggest — and most emotional — transitions of their lives. Whether they're moving to a smaller home, a condo, an independent living community, or closer to family, the process can feel daunting. At Mad City Dream Homes, we're here to make it feel manageable — and even exciting.


We genuinely love helping seniors navigate this journey. In fact, our relationship with clients often begins a year or more before their actual move, giving us plenty of time to listen, plan, and prepare together.


Every client's situation is different, so we tailor our approach to their unique goals and concerns. Along the way, we help with the practical steps that can feel most overwhelming — from deciding what to keep, donate, or pass along to family, to preparing and staging the home for sale. We stay by their side throughout, offering personal attention and hands-on support at every stage.


If there's a senior in your life thinking about their next chapter, we'd love to connect. Download our complimentary guide to downsizing here, for an overview of the downsizing process — or simply reach out to schedule a conversation. We'd love to help. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:33:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/preparation-opportunity.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/preparation-opportunity.html</link>
        <author>amanda@madcitydreamhomes.com (Amanda Verbrick)</author>
        <title>Preparation &amp; Opportunity </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
There’s no substitute for preparation if you are planning to buy a home in the current market. If another buyer's offer gets accepted over yours, it can be easy to view them as “lucky.” In reality, they may have just been better prepared and more ready to take advantage of the opportunity in front of them. So, how can your Mad City Dream Homes agent help you be prepared?




Having a conversation in-person or by phone about the current market, offer strategies, and home values








Connecting you with a lender to review creative loan and downpayment options, including down payment assistance




Educating you about “coming soon” properties that are available on the MLS






Reviewing blank offer paperwork with you ahead of making an offer




Reach out if you think we can help in your next step.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:24:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/affordable-dane-county-condos-available-right-now.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/affordable-dane-county-condos-available-right-now.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Affordable Dane County condos available right now</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Looking for an affordable condo in the Madison area? Local condo supply has been improving, and as of today there are 106 Dane County condos available for sale, priced under $400,000, without an accepted offer. Here's a quick glimpse at the available condos priced under $400,000, by community. 





(listing photo courtesy of Step Inside Media) 


Condos priced under $400,000 in Dane County


Madison condos under $400k




Downtown Madison


Madison near east


Madison east 


Madison near west


Madison west 


Madison far west


Madison southwest 




Suburban condos under $400k




Deerfield


DeForest


Fitchburg


Middleton 


Sun Prairie 


Verona


Waunakee




What questions do you have about the Madison area condo market? 


At Mad City Dream Homes, we specialize in the Dane County condo market, and we're here to openly and honestly answer all of your questions. Reach out for a helpful conversation. We'd love to assist you. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:06:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/serving-vs-selling-helping-vs-hyping.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/serving-vs-selling-helping-vs-hyping.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Serving vs Selling, Helping vs Hyping</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
What kind of realtor are you looking to hire?


If you want a steady professional who's genuinely dedicated to your goals — someone who prioritizes personalized service over personal branding — we're likely a good fit.


We don't prefer the spotlight. We prefer to focus on your goals instead. That means honest advice, responsive communication, and putting your interests first, even when the work isn't easy.


Serving comes before selling. Helping comes before hyping. This is what gives our work purpose and meaning each day.


If that's the kind of realtor you're looking for, we'd love to earn your trust.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:01:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/making-your-epic-move.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/making-your-epic-move.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Making your Epic Move easier</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Getting ready to start your new role with Epic Systems? Whether you're relocating from across the country or just across the state, navigating a new real estate market while starting a new job can feel overwhelming. You're not alone — and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. 


 


Common questions from Epic new hires


The questions we hear most from Epic new hires are usually the same: How much does a home or condo cost within 30 minutes of the Verona campus? Which nearby communities — like Fitchburg, Madison, or Middleton — best fit my lifestyle and commute? And should I buy right away, or rent for a year while I get my bearings?


There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but here's what we know: the Madison area is a competitive market, and getting the right guidance early can make your move a lot easier. We've helped dozens of Epic employees successfully navigate these decisions as they made their move to Dane County — and we'd love to help you, too.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:11:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-condo-market-trends-for-march-2026.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-condo-market-trends-for-march-2026.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Madison area condo market trends for March, 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Dane County condo prices decreased in the month of March, while both new listings and accepted offers increased. Here's our deep dive into the March Madison area condo market. Note: All of our data is sourced from the South Central Wisconsin MLS. 


Do you have questions about buying or selling your Madison area condo? Reach out to one of our full-time condo specialists. 


Dane County condo prices 





March Madison area condo prices




The price per square foot was $228, down 4 percent from $237 in March of 2025. 


The median price decreased from $319,000 in March of 2025 to $310,000 in March of 2026, down 3 percent. 


The average price decreased from $355,068 to $339,065, down 5 percent. 




Year-to-date condo prices through March




The price per square foot decreased from $228 in 2025 to $222 in 2026, down 3 percent. 


The median price decreased from $318,250 to $300,000, down 6 percent. 


The average price decreased from $346,365 to $327,902, down 5 percent.  




* Notes about condo prices in early 2026 


Some condos continue to sell very quickly this year and for record-high prices within their association. Conversely, some condos are slower to sell and for lower prices.


One big reason for this is this year's buyers are especially focused on value. They're more hesitant to take on deferred maintenance and deferred updates -- and large special assessments -- leading to some condos taking longer to sell and for lower prices. 


If you're planning to buy or sell a condo in 2026, we encourage you to reach out to one of our condominium experts. We'll help you make the right decisions and create a good plan that addresses all of your condo goals. 


 


New condo listings


A total of 189 Madison area condos were listed for sale in March, up 24 percent from the 152 listings in March of 2025. Condo listings have increased each month this year and are up 12 percent for the quarter. Condo inventory (ie months of supply) continues to grow in Dane County -- which we cover later in this report. 





 


Accepted offers


A total of 165 Madison area condos went under contract in the month of March, up 4 percent from the 159 accepted offers in March of 2025. Year-to-date, accepted offers are up 5 percent through the first quarter. 





 


Dane County condo supply


Home supply has plateaued compared to last spring's levels, but condo supply has continued to grow. As of April 10th, a total of 237 Madison area condominiums were available for sale (without an accepted offer) -- that's the equivalent of 2 months of condo inventory. Here's how condo supply this April compares to supply levels from previous years: 




Up 27 percent from 186 condos in April of 2025. 


Up 71 percent from from 139 condos in April of 2024. 


Up 196 percent from 80 condos in April of 2023. 




Rising condo supply is a positive trend for our market, especially for downsizers and first-time homebuyers who are in search of more opportunities to purchase in a tight real estate market. 


 


 


Condo competing offers


Competing offers are trending below the levels from last year. According to our preliminary data for the month of February, 25 percent of all accepted offers involved competition, compared to 36 percent the year before.


Note from the chart below that competing offers are trending well below the peak levels from 2022. In February of 2022, the competing offer percentage was 49 percent. 


The trend toward less competition indicates the condo market is becoming more balanced, with buyers and sellers negotiating on a more level playing field. More balance means more condo buyers will be able to include the traditional home inspection and appraisal contingencies in their offers -- a positive trend for our market. 





 


Condo days on market


The average days on market for a condo sold in March was 36 days, down from 40 days in March of 2025. Through the first quarter of the year, the DOM was 47 days, up from 42 days the year before. The trend toward higher marketing times is another sign of more balance returning to the market. 





 


Expired condo listings 


A total of 107 Dane County condos expired without selling in the first quarter of 2026, up from 24 expired listings the year before. As inventory grows, condo sellers are learning that the right pricing, staging, cosmetic touch-ups, and marketing are fundamental for a successful sale. 


 


 


Dane County condo sales


A total of 124 Madison area condos sold (closed) in the month of March, up 4 percent from the 119 in March of 2025. Through the first quarter of the year, condo sales are lower by 3 percent. 





 


What questions do you have about the market in your local condo association? 


We're available to meet with you and help you plan ahead for your next move -- even if your move is a few years out. It would be our pleasure to assist you, and without any  of the sales pressure or spin. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 11 Apr 2026 05:20:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-single-family-home-trends-for-march-2026.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/madison-area-single-family-home-trends-for-march-2026.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Madison area single family home trends for March, 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Dane County home prices increased for all three of our measures in March, as new listings increased and accepted offers decreased. Here's our latest update on the Madison area single family home market. 


Note: All of our data is sourced from the South Central Wisconsin MLS. 


Dane County home prices





March Madison area home prices




The price per square foot increased from $250 in March of 2025 to $258 in March of 2026, up 3 percent. 


The median price increased from $464,000 to $499,000, up 8 percent. 


The average price decreased from $522,187 to $574,264, up 10 percent. 




Year-to-date prices through the month of March




The Dane County price per square foot increased from $245 through March of 2025 to $253 through March of 2026, up 3 percent.


The median price increased from $459,720 to $481,000, up 5 percent. 


The average price increased from $527,590 to $557,478 up 6 percent.  




 


New listings


A total of 599 Dane County homes were listed for sale in the month of March, up 7 percent from the 562 in March of 2025. Last month's total was the highest for any month of March in the last 4 years. Through the first quarter of the year, the listing total is even with the listing total from last year. 





 


Accepted offers


A total of 499 Dane County homes went under contract in March, down 4 percent from 521 accepted offers in March of 2025. Through the first quarter of the year, accepted offers are 2 percent higher in 2026. 





 


Dane County home supply


As of April 9th, a total of 554 Madison area single family homes are available for sale (without an accepted offer) -- that's the equivalent of 1.3 months of inventory. Here's how today's supply compares to supply levels from previous years: 




Essentially even with the 553 homes in April of 2025. 


Up 29 percent from from 428 homes in April of 2024. 


Up 51 percent from 368 homes in April of 2023. 


Up 73 percent from 321 homes in April of 2022. 




Note we do expect supply levels to rise over the next 6 months, as they typically do this time of year. Buyers will have more homes to choose from, and sellers will have more competition from other sellers, as we approach the summer market. 


 


 


Competing offers


Competing offers in 2026 are trending slightly below the levels from last year. According to our preliminary data for the month of February, 35 percent of all accepted offers involved competition, compared to 36 percent the year before. Note from the chart below that competing offers are trending well below the peak levels from 2021.


Fewer competing offers is a sign of a more balanced market, with buyers gaining more opportunities to negotiate on a more level playing field with sellers. We would love to see this trend toward continue in the months and years ahead. 


 


 


Days on market


The average days on market in March was 38 days, even with last year. Through the first quarter of the year, the average DOM was 45 days, up from 41 days the year before. Rising marketing times is another sign that our market is slowly trending toward more balance. 





 


Expired listings


Through the month of March, a total of 232 Dane County single family home listings expired without selling, up 28 percent from the 181 expired listings last year -- another sign of a market trending toward more balance. This is a trend for sellers to be aware of. Today's buyers are focused on value. They won't write an offer on a home if the view it as over-priced or too costly to update. 


 


 


Dane County home sales


A total of 377 Madison area homes sold (closed) in March, up 8 percent from the 350 homes in March of 2025. Through the first quarter of the year, sales are up 4 percent.  





 


What questions do you have about the market and how it affects your big move? 


We're available to meet with you and help you plan ahead for your next stage of life -- even if your move is a few years out. Reach out for a helpful consultation. We'd love to help you. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:56:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/we-love-our-jobs.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/we-love-our-jobs.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>We love our jobs</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
With all the division in the world, we're thankful for work that still feels meaningful.


Every day, we help someone navigate a life transition. Sometimes that's exciting — a first-time buyer getting the keys, a growing family finding more space, a couple finally settling into the home that fits their retirement. These moments are genuinely fun to be part of.


Other times, the transition is harder. A divorce. A death in the family. A health change that makes the current home unworkable. We show up for those too, and we don't take lightly the trust it requires to let us in during those moments.


Either way, the work is the same: make a big move a little easier. That's worth getting up for. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:23:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/small-town-charm-near-madison.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/small-town-charm-near-madison.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Small town charm near Madison</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Thinking of buying a home near Madison but within a small town setting? Maybe you're seeking a slower pace, a quaint downtown with locally-owned shops and restaurants, or a closer connection to nature. Or maybe you'd like to live in a city that offers a little more affordability. Here are eleven small towns near Madison for your consideration, all within a 60-minute drive of the city. 





(Eagle watching in Sauk City, Wisconsin)


Stoughton (28 minutes from Madison)


Stoughton is known for its Norwegian heritage and downtown corridor along the Yahara River. Residents enjoy a lively calendar of community events—including the famous Syttende Mai festival—plus a growing collection of restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques. The combination of small town character, walkability, and access to Madison makes Stoughton a perennial favorite for buyers.


Cambridge (29 minutes from Madison)


Cambridge offers classic small-town charm with a scenic setting near Lake Ripley. Its downtown is filled with well-preserved historic buildings, cozy eateries, and antique shops, while nearby parks and trails provide plenty of outdoor recreation. The community has a relaxed, welcoming feel that appeals to those looking for a quieter pace without sacrificing convenience.


Evansville (29 minutes from Madison)


Evansville is appreciated for its affordability and 19th-century architecture. The downtown district features a number of historic homes and buildings, giving the area a timeless feel. Evansville offers a good value within commuting distance of Madison.


Belleville (30 minutes from Madison)


Located along the Sugar River, Belleville blends small-town living with easy access to both Madison and Verona. The community is known for its riverfront park and bike trail connections. Belleville has become increasingly popular with buyers seeking a balance between affordability and proximity to major employers on Madison’s west side.


Mount Horeb (31 minutes from Madison)


Mount Horeb stands out for its unique identity as the “Troll Capital of the World,” with whimsical wood carvings lining the downtown district. It offers a thriving downtown, popular festivals, and quick access to outdoor destinations like the Military Ridge State Trail. It’s a top choice for buyers looking for character and convenience close to Madison’s west side.


Lake Mills (34 minutes from Madison)


Lake Mills is centered around beautiful Rock Lake, offering residents easy access to boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. The downtown is active and inviting, with a mix of shops, dining, and community events throughout the year. Its location along I-94 also makes it a practical option for commuters heading to either Madison or Milwaukee. 


New Glarus (36 minutes from Madison)


Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus is rich in Swiss heritage and charm. From its alpine-style architecture to its popular festivals and local shops, the village has a distinct personality that draws visitors year-round. It’s also home to the well-known New Glarus Brewing Company, adding to its appeal as a destination.


Sauk City (37 minutes from Madison) 


Sauk City, paired with neighboring Prairie du Sac, offers scenic beauty along the Wisconsin River. The area is known for its riverfront views, outdoor recreation, and a historic downtown with a growing number of shops and restaurants. Its location near the Baraboo Bluffs makes it especially appealing for nature lovers.


Lodi (41 minutes from Madison)


Lodi combines small-town living with access to some of Dane County’s most beautiful natural areas, including Lake Wisconsin. The community has a strong local identity, highlighted by events like the annual Susie the Duck Day. With small town charm and a welcoming feel, Lodi continues to attract buyers looking for a slower pace of life.


Spring Green (55 minutes from Madison)


Spring Green is best known as the home of Taliesin, the estate of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The area has a creative, artistic vibe, with galleries, theaters, and unique local businesses contributing to its character. Surrounded by rolling hills and the Wisconsin River, Spring Green offers a peaceful, scenic retreat from city life.


Baraboo (58 minutes from Madison)


Baraboo offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and year-round attractions. It’s home to Devil’s Lake State Park—one of Wisconsin’s most popular outdoor destinations. The downtown square is lively and picturesque, making Baraboo a compelling option for buyers who want both amenities and access to the outdoors.


Small town living near Madison, Wisconsin


From lake communities to historic downtowns, these small towns near Madison each offer something a little different. Whether you're searching for affordability, character, or outdoor recreation, there are plenty of great options just beyond the city.


Ready to explore your real estate options near Madison? 


If you’re thinking about making a move, we’re here to help. Reach out anytime for local expertise and personalized guidance. If you're moving from another part of the country, you'll find our relocation guide to be a helpful resource. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 06:31:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/ranch-style-condos-available-right-now.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.madcitydreamhomes.com/blog/ranch-style-condos-available-right-now.html</link>
        <author>contact@madcitydreamhomes.com (Dan Miller, REALTOR)</author>
        <title>Ranch style condos in Dane County available right now</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Have you been thinking of downsizing into a condo where all of your living space is on one floor? A growing number of ranch style condominiums are becoming available in Madison and Dane County. Here's a quick peak at what's available right now, by community. 





(listing photo courtesy of Step Inside Media)


Cambridge




Trollbekk condominiums on West Madison Street. 




Deerfield 




Deerfield Crossing on Elizabeth Ct. 


Drumlin Woods, new construction condos situated in a natural setting. 




DeForest




Hidden Valley, high-end condos on Deer Hollow Ct. 


The Ridge at Fox Hill, new construction condos on Ridge View Way and Fox Forest Way. 


Riverstone condos on Bellflower Drive. 


Village Walk condos on Village Walk Lane. 




Fitchburg




Inspiration at Swan Creek, new construction, standalone condos. 


Lacy Woods condos, also in Swan Creek. 




Madison West 




Greystone condos on Cricket Lane. 


Embassy Commons on Waldorf Boulevard. 


Saukdale condos off of Old Sauk Rd. 


Settler Hill condos on the far west side. 


Waterside condos, adjacent to the Blackhawk neighborhood. 




Middleton




Villages of Bishops Bay in the Bishops Bay golf course community. 




Mount Horeb




Sienna Hills condos on Sienna Hills Circle. 


Trail View Heights condos on Jennifer Circle. 




Oregon




Villages of Foxboro condos on Elliott Lane. 


The Villas on Tivoli Circle. 


Vineyard Grove on Dunn Avenue. 




Stoughton




Eastwood Estates on Ashberry Lane.  


Wild Oak condos, new construction condos on Wild Goose Way. 




Sun Prairie




The Uplands condos on Larkspur Court. 


Carriage Homes condos on Musket Ridge Drive. 




Waunakee




Arboretum Village condos, new construction condos Irene Court. 


Six Mile Creek condos on Fairview Circle. 


Village Homes condos, a 55+ community. 




Windsor




Holland Fields condos on Rembrandt Road. 




 


What questions do you have about buying or selling a condo in 2026? We specialize in the Madison area condo market, and we'd love to help you.  
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 04 Apr 2026 06:18:00 -0500</pubDate>
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