Weekend schedules are filing up fast but there still are events one should make time for.  The weather may not be perfect but it’s Wisconsin and we love it anyway.    Since the weather has warmed up it’s time to get that vegetable garden planted that you’ve wanted to do for years. Most greenhouses have their starter plants on sale and you can pick up a small garden’s worth for not that much money. You can grow most veggies in container gardens if you don’t have lawn space for a little garden plot.   Get out & enjoy the Marquette Neighborhood 25th Waterfront Festival. So much music and food you won’t know where to start. I would get myself a few different snack options and claim a spot by the Folk Stage and mellow out to the Acoustic beats. There will tons for the kids to do like a hay r... 06/05/2014

Open House in Madison - Sunday 6-8-2014 1:00-3:00 P.M. 5113 Camilla Rd, Madison, WI 53716 KEY FEATURESYear Built: 1956Sq Footage: 1781 sqft.Bedrooms: 4 BedsBathrooms: 1.5 BathParking: 1 GarageLaundry: In Unit Property Type: Single Family House DESCRIPTION Nice four bedroom home in a quiet Eastside neighborhood. Many updates including new doors, trim, flooring, and mechanicals. Recently remodeled bathroom. Plenty of basement space for all your needs, a workshop, rec room, and bonus room. New driveway in 2009. This wonderful home is move in ready. ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & INFO Website: http://www.sweethomewi.com/idx/mls-1711141-5113_camilla_rd_madison_wi_53716 5113 Camilla Road, Madison Wisconsin 53716 Contact info:Bethany Alexander | Rock Realty | 608-212-4101 06/04/2014

The two-year-old casual dining spot Gates & Brovi sits on the corner of Monroe and Glenway, across the street from Lake Wingra. It’s further west than Monroe’s two main commercial hubs, which means that for some in Madison, it may seem out of the way. But that’s also what makes Gates & Brovi the perfect neighborhood spot. Gates & Brovi opened in the Dudgeon-Monroe neighborhood in the fall of 2012, which means for this block, it’s basically an infant. Right next door is Mallat’s Pharmacy and Costumes, which has been in its current location since 1941. Gates & Brovi is on the first floor of the Parman Place building, which is also only two years old and took the place of Parman’s Service Station, the tiny red-and-white shop that took up residence in the neighborhood the same year as Malla... 05/30/2014

This weekend is Memorial Day weekend. One of the most emotional National Holidays our Nation celebrates. Formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. After several more wars it was renamed Memorial Day to honor all soldiers that died serving our country. It looks like Mother Nature will be doing her part by giving us a gorgeous holiday weekend. Did you say Brats? It’s the World’s Largest Brat Fest and since they’re like Mother’s milk to Wisconsinites it’s like Christmas to us. There will be tons of activities like volleyball, a mascot race, fun play inflatables, fireworks and yes a kids’ MUDstard Run. It’s not just all about kids; there will be 5 stages with live music of all ty... 05/22/2014

Just Sold! 4509 Tennessee Trl, Madison WI 53704 Madison Wisconsin houses for sale We are happy to announce the sale of another Rock Realty listing located in Madison, Wisconsin. This was a successful transaction for everyone involved! Congratulations to the new buyers & Michael Collins, broker for Rock Realty! If you are thinking of selling or buying a home in Wisconsin, we would be happy to assist you. Give Rock Realty a call at 877-774-7625. We are a full service real estate brokerage.   Madison, WI Real Estate for Sale OTHER ARTICLES Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before Looking for a Home First Time Buyers: How To Wade Through Real Estate Lingo What’s Just as Important As Location When Choosing a Home? 10 Things that are Good to Know Before Buying a Home Tips for your first Hom... 05/15/2014

The 1st week of May is here, and weather be damned, we think it's time to get out and have fun. Fairs, Festivals, Art Shows and live music are booked through out the Spring and Summer. Get out this weekend no matter the weather and enjoy Madison and its surrounding communities. Polka Music?Yes! Maifest, a celebration of Spring German style with beer. Of course there will be beer; it's German style after all. The Essen Haus at 514 E Wilson St is hosting this fun alternative fest to benefit the Dane Co Humane Society. This family friendly event will have a May pole dance, local Artist booths, kids activities and Polka music. Free admission held from 11:30 to 7 Saturday. Pancakes Anyone?Doric Lodge 356, at 85 S Stoughton Rd is having a Pancake breakfast and bake sale Saturday morning 7 to ... 05/02/2014

Open House in Madison - Sunday 4-27-2014 1:00-3:00 P.M. 5113 Camilla Rd, Madison, WI 53716 $185,000 KEY FEATURESYear Built: 1956Sq Footage: 1781 sqft.Bedrooms: 4 BedsBathrooms: 1.5 BathParking: 1 GarageLaundry: In Unit Property Type: Single Family House DESCRIPTION Nice four bedroom home in a quiet Eastside neighborhood. Many updates including new doors, trim, flooring, and mechanicals. Recently remodeled bathroom. Plenty of basement space for all your needs, a workshop, rec room, and bonus room. New driveway in 2009. This wonderful home is move in ready. ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & INFO Website: http://www.sweethomewi.com/idx/mls-1711141-5113_camilla_rd_madison_wi_53716 5113 Camilla Road, Madison Wisconsin 53716 Contact info:Bethany Alexander | Rock Realty | 608-212-4101 04/17/2014

Just Sold! 5817 Oxbow Bend in Madison, Wisconsin We are happy to announce a recent home closing in Madison. It was a pleasure helping this buyer find such a wonderful Madison home that truly fits her needs. Congratulations to our agent Bethany Alexander and the new home buyer, Allison! We hope you enjoy the home! If you are thinking of selling or buying a home in Wisconsin, we would be happy to assist you. Give Rock Realty a call at 877-774-7625. We are a full service real estate brokerage.  Madison, WI Homes for Sale OTHER ARTICLES The Right Way to Investigate Your New Neighborhood Wisconsin February 2014 Housing Statistics Simple Ways to Get Your Home Ready to Sell What Mortgage is the Best Fit for You 04/16/2014

 4 Bedroom Madison Ranch for Sale 5113 Camilla Rd, Madison, WI 53716 $185,000 KEY FEATURESYear Built: 1956Sq Footage: 1781 sqft.Bedrooms: 4 BedsBathrooms: 1.5 BathParking: 1 GarageLaundry: In Unit Property Type: Single Family House DESCRIPTION Nice four bedroom home in a quiet Eastside neighborhood. Many updates including new doors, trim, flooring, and mechanicals. Recently remodeled bathroom. Plenty of basement space for all your needs, a workshop, rec room, and bonus room. New driveway in 2009. This wonderful home is move in ready. ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & INFO Website: http://www.sweethomewi.com/idx/mls-1711141-5113_camilla_rd_madison_wi_53716 5113 Camilla Road, Madison Wisconsin 53716 Contact info:Bethany Alexander | Rock Realty | 608-212-4101 Oregon, Wisconsin Homes for Sale 04/14/2014

The Wisconsin housing statistics are in for February of 2014. Here is an excerpt from what the Wisconsin Realtors® Association (WRA) had to say: For the second straight month, home sales dropped as Wisconsin recorded its coldest winter in decades according to an analysis of February housing market activity released by the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA). Existing home sales dropped 10.1 percent relative to February 2013; however median prices actually increased substantially, rising 7.4 percent to $130,000 over the same 12 month period. “We live in Wisconsin. We expect slow sales in February,” said Steve Lane, chairman of the WRA board of directors. “But we broke many records for cold temperatures this winter, so it’s not surprising this year’s February sales were off the 2013 pac... 03/19/2014

Exciting News! FHA Is Allowing People that Suffered through Recent Economic Hardships to Apply for a Home Loan with the FHA Back to Work Program. photo credit: Daquella manera via photopin cc In the not so distant past people had to wait 3 years or more after suffering through a financial hardship. Bankruptcy, foreclosures and other major financial disasters would sideline people for a number of years before they could buy a house again. However, all that has changed with the FHA Back to Work Program. Previous Guidelines For years the FHA program has helped people finance the purchase of a home with a modest 3.25% down payment. In general, the FHA rules for credit and employment history were more forgiving than conventional loan guidelines. However, there were strict rules about waiting... 02/11/2014

Staying away from something that seems good is a crazy idea, right? Nobody willingly avoids an extra day of vacation or a chance to eat one of their favorite meals. However, too many prospective home buyers avoid using a USDA Rural Housing mortgage. The reason is actually ironic; many people think that they make too much money to qualify for the loan. For the majority of full-time employees, this is not the case. USDA Rules about Income In order to understand the whole misconception, it is important to be familiar with the USDA program rules concerning income. The rules state that the household income for the borrower cannot be higher than 115% of the average income in the area where the home is located. Furthermore, the income varies from county to county and is based on the number of... 01/16/2014

Even long time Madison veterans and the hippest of the hip haven’t heard of this little-known gem in the heart of Madison’s downtown. The Pinckney Place condos are perfect for discerning homeowners who crave a lavish oasis in the center of the action. Homeowners young and old will adore the spacious rooms, stunning views, and ideal location at Pinckney Place.   Lake Mendota Frontage Made Easy   Tucked away from the traffic and people but directly on the Lake Mendota’s shore, you’ll have all the amenities of lakefront living without any of the hassle at Pinckney Place. If you’ve always wanted to be near the lake but dread the upkeep of a home, landscaping, and shoveling, this could be your dream condo. Just imagine the peace of looking out your window to see sailboats all summer long, sh... 01/15/2014

We are thankful to announce that Chet Droessler is joining the Forward Realty Group team. Chet has already enjoyed great success as a realtor in the Madison market and his knowledge of the area neighborhoods is second to none. Read more about what makes Chet great below and remember that we are starting to accept listings for homes for sale in 2014! Chet Droessler, Forward Realty Group Where did you grow up?Technically, my address was Cuba City, WI. However, that was a 20 minute drive from my family's dairy farm located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River in SW Wisconsin. I grew up in a typical rural Wisconsin, a small community with the friendliest people you'll find.... anywhere. What is your favorite memory of your home growing up?The kitchen! I come from a big family and most gat... 12/02/2013

Buying a Condo in Madison   I get asked a lot of the same questions whenever I take a new client out to view condos. Living in a condo is a completely different lifestyle for most and so there are certain things to consider when making the choice between condo or single family home. Here are just a few things to consider. What do you own?Condominiums are zoned in such a way that you do not own the land beneath you. You own the space and air inside the four walls along with all of your belongings. You have access to what people call “limited common elements” as well as “common elements” Limited common element: It is a space attached to your unit that is intended for your use only. i.e. deck, front porch Common element: This would be any space used in common with all other owners of the b... 11/19/2013

2013 – 2014 Home Maintenance Class ScheduleBrought to you by Project Home CLASS DATE TIME LOCATION Attics, Basements & Crawlspaces 11/13/2013 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madison, WI 53716 General Heating System Maintenance 11/20/2013 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madison, WI 53716 Basic Household Plumbing 12/4/2013 6 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madison, WI 53716 Attics, Basements & Crawlspaces (In Green County) 12/11/2013 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Monroe Public Library 2nd Floor Program Room Saving Energy in your Home 1/15/2014 6 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madison, WI 53716 Basic Household Plumbing 1/29/2014 6 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madison, WI 53716 Tracking and Managing Utility Bills and Energy Costs 2/12/2014 6 - 7:30 p.m. 1966 S. Stoughton Rd.Madi... 11/18/2013

How to properly evaluate a potential investment property photo credit: Håkan Dahlström via photopin cc Life is full of sayings that seem contradictory at first.  Expressions like “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link” and a “team is only as good as its worst player” seem to make no sense until they have been analyzed and understood.  In flipping homes, you make your money when you buy.  Quite simply, if you buy a home at the proper discount then you have a much better chance of selling at a profit.  Here is a general outline to help you evaluate a potential home for investment. First, Take a Casual Drive It is a good idea to only consider homes that you can actually inspect.  Being able to drive by the home gives you a firsthand perspective. On your way to the home pay attentio... 10/31/2013

If people want the true east side experience of Madison, there is no better neighborhood to look for a home in than the Williamson Marquette area. A variety of grand Victorian houses, newer condos, two flats and recent Queen Anne style homes populate the neighborhood, but it’s the quality of the neighborhood relationships that make this place stand out. Nationally celebrated neighborhood A recent recipient of the 2013 American Planning Association’s Great Neighborhood award, this east side Madison location is nationally recognized for its diversity of homes, people and businesses. Empty of national chains, the Williamson Marquette neighborhood sports an eclectic collection of shops, businesses, coffee houses and local restaurants and bars. The people are as warm, welcoming, innovative a... 10/30/2013

Just Sold! 1817 Anhalt Dr, Madison Wisconsin 53704 We are happy to announce a sale for another Madison Wisconsin Rock Realty home seller! This home was the perfect little tri-level on Madison's East Side. The buyers got a great price on this bank accepted short sale. Congratulations to the buyers and our sellers on this successful Madison short sale transaction! If you are thinking of selling or buying a home in Wisconsin, our home buyer specialists would be happy to assist you. Give Rock Realty a call at 877-774-7625. We are a full service real estate brokerage.   OTHER ARTICLES Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before Looking for a Home First Time Buyers: How To Wade Through Real Estate Lingo What’s Just as Important As Location When Choosing a Home? 10 Things that are Good to Know ... 10/21/2013

The Wisconsin housing statistics are in for August of 2013. Here is an excerpt from what the Wisconsin Realtors® Association (WRA) had to say: Home sales and median prices both grew at a healthy pace in August, continuing the hot real estate market in Wisconsin. Existing home sales were up 13.7 percent in August compared to last August, closing out a very strong summer for home sales and 26 straight months of sales growth. Home prices showed similar strength with the median price rising 6.3 percent to $152,000 in August. Median prices have been up 17 of the last 18 months. “This has been a very strong summer for home sales, which is important for a state like Wisconsin where there are strong seasonal sales patterns,” said Steve Lane, broker with First Weber Group REALTORS® in Stevens Po... 10/03/2013