We’re just about the halfway through 2013, a good point to check in to see what paint prognosticators are saying about home color trends. It’s especially timely, as many aficionados are proclaiming vibrant brights and beachy hues – the colors of summer – as the new in. Think fuschia, coral, lime and violet on one hand; blue sky, turquoise waters, sand, sun and seashells on the other. HGTV captures the trend well with this photo gallery. It’s not surprising given the findings of Sherw... read more

For many of us, home loan rates are the lowest we’ve ever seen, making now a great time to buy a first home, upgrade to a larger home or even downsize to something easier to maintain. If you’re looking to take advantage of those low rates, however, you’re more likely to qualify by following these tips. 1. Protect your credit score. Whether you’re paying on credit cards, utilities, a car loan or even a current mortgage, make all your payments on time to keep your credit score as high as possi... read more

It’s taken a few years, but the housing market is rebounding and doing it soundly. In fact, Wisconsin home sales rose in May for the 23rd month in a row. All signs point to a continuing healthy market. Here are three reasons why. 1) Supply and demand. After the housing market crashed in 2008, builders dramatically slowed new construction. In that same time, population growth and immigration have increased the number of prospective owners entering the marketplace. In addition, experts estimate that millennial... read more

Backyard sheds have long served as a basic receptacle for all your outdoor tools: serving as storage space for everything from lawnmowers and snow blowers to garden hoses, rakes and fishing gear. But with a little creative thinking, your shed could become an extension of your home. In fact, many people are finding outdoor sheds can be a great alternative to expensive home additions. Sometimes a man cave can be just what you need. Many sheds come equipped with lights and outlets, so all you need is a comfy rec... read more

It seems like home prices are arbitrary these days, with luck playing more of a role than any other factor. How can I possibly know at what price I should list my home? One of the best ways to determine the true market value of your home is to look at how much comparable homes in your area are selling for. You’ll want homes that are similar in size and features and that have sold recently under current market conditions. Consider lot location, size and view. Consider the home’s square footage and the... read more