You are here: Home / Archives for Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva Parking – What can be done to improve it?

May 13, 2013 By Leave a Comment
lake geneva wi parking

Where Art & Functionality Meet

If you live, work or play in Lake Geneva, you’ve seen how crazy parking can be – especially in the summer months.

Last summer, Lake Geneva implemented new parking meters that let you park longer, pay with a debit or credit card and let you extend your time via your cell phone.  While the tech trend in most things is good, this has caused a lot of confusion for people visiting our area.

Now you have an opportunity to voice your opinion and more importantly share suggestions with the city about how they could improve the parking situation.  The City of Lake Geneva is having a comprehensive study down about the parking downtown.  They will be hosting an open house this week to discuss with the public where the concerns are.  If you have a great idea that could improve the experience in downtown Lake Geneva we’d encourage you to attend.  The open house is open to the public and all feedback is welcome.

May 15, 2013 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
City Hall Senior Center
626 Geneva Street, Lake Geneva, WI
Project Manager – Annaka Norris, Rich & Assoc. Inc.
anorris@richassoc.com

While Lake Geneva discusses how to make the parking situation downtown better, we’re seeing a tremendous amount of people starting to look for their vacation home.  Mortgage rates are still exceptional allowing people to invest in a larger home for the money than they would have gotten 5 years ago.  If you’re looking for your perfect vacation home, connect with us.  As our VIP client, you will have access to a personalized search system that allows us to email you the minute a property comes on the market for sale that meets what you are looking for.  This gives you the opportunity to be the first in the door to see if the home is perfect for your family.  To be one of our VIP clients, contact us at (262)745-3738 – call or text and we’d be happy to discuss what you are looking for and help you find the right home in the right location! 

lake geneva lakefront property

For Sale: 9 Acre Historic Lake Geneva lakefront home site.

“Michalene: We didn’t get the chance to thank you enough for the job you did selling our house. Had we chosen another agent I don’t believe we would be on our way to Colorado 10 days from now. You are one of the best that Keefe has and we would recommend you to anybody. All the best to you and your family.”

~Chris and Anne Stecker
FacebookLogo1michalene melges twitter


Filed Under: Featured Posts, Lake Geneva Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Really they said that?!?!

April 25, 2013 By

A few days ago we wrote a blog post discussing the honest truth about the Lake Geneva real estate market, specifically as it relates to lakefront and lake access homes.

SH_VS_BluffWe’ve gotten feedback from several of our readers thanking us for being so honest.  Many have talked with other people and they concur that they’ve been told what the agents think they “want to hear” rather than the reality of our market.  Let me be the first to say, that’s not what we’re about.  Whether you like the reality of the market or not, the statistics and numbers speak for themselves.  That’s the truth and that’s what we share with our customers and clients regardless of if that’s what they want to hear.

Digging into the Lake Geneva real estate market further, this year 7 lakefront homes have sold with 63% of those being over the $2M price point.  This trend for mid-level lakefront buyers continue.   People that are looking for Lake Geneva lakefront property and we have a demand for new lakefront listing.  However, listings are coming on the market slower than lakefront buyers are coming into the market.  We have a number of buyers looking for specific properties that haven’t come on the market yet.  If you have a home that fits any of these criteria we outlined in this blog post contact us.  We’d love to put your home on the radar of our buyers and find a fit that helps both of you.

If  you as a seller get an offer it is not to be taken lightly.  Not all homeowners get an offer, so take yours seriously.

  • Reviewing the offer, are you priced on market?
  • Have you received an offer knowing that you were priced higher than the market and considered that offer a “low ball” feeling aghast at the audacity?
  • Take a look, is it a low ball or is it an offer that is based on what the market is? That is the question.
  • How long have you been on the market?
  • Has it changed since you have listed your home? Only current sold comps can tell and are you willing to follow and acknowledge that?

Buyers are showing their commitment to you by writing the offer.  Safeguard yourself and use the contract as able to get yourself to an acceptance. When there is communication, there is a way. “We will list at this price and believe me when I tell you, we are reasonable people, we will adjust our price or we will negotiate.”  That’s the kiss of death.  Are you sure that you haven’t married yourself to the numbers that are printed in front of you?  It becomes difficult for sellers to not take it personally or negotiate in the present real estate market.  DETACH and realize that your home is now your most valuable asset, and that you will get the highest and best price the present market will bear.

The bottom line for our Lake Geneva real estate market – real estate is a business transaction.  We know how much you love your home, but at the end of the day it’s about negotiating a transaction.  We are here to help you communicate (via the contract) with potential buyers.  Know that they have made an offer to you because they believe their family will love your home as much as you do and that they can create memories at the lake for years to come.

lake geneva realtors melges team

The Melges Team - Top Producing Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate Team

This Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate update is provided by the Melges Team – Lake Geneva Lakefront Realtors with Keefe Real Estate.  Choosing who to represent you in a real estate transaction is an important decision.  Getting your questions answered and knowing the facts before you make that decision are critical.  If you have a home around the Geneva Lake area selecting someone that has in-depth knowledge of the Lake Geneva real estate market, a reputation for keeping your personal information confidential and has a global network of customers and clients online assuring you that your real estate will gain maximum visibility is paramount.  When people commit to working with the Melges team, they know they’ve gained a trusted real estate advisor for life.  Contact Michalene and Hans Melges at (262) 745-3738 and get your real estate facts today. 

 

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Decide – Commit – Succeed in Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate

April 19, 2013 By

ArrowheadSOLD200Spring is here and the thought of summer coming has everyone excited and planning. Planning for family, parties, lake fun and yes, Lake Geneva real estate.

I actually wrote the above cliche and caught myself reiterating the mindset of “The Spring Market” because it feels normal, it’s expected. The results, activity and momentum of a more certain success rate is seemingly more optimistic with the coming of Spring. Ah! Enough… The reality of any market and success rate of receiving a written contract is not determined by a season. It is determined by the value placed on the home.

ManorAO200Old Mind Set: The Spring Market means Multiple Offers, pricing higher than the market based on the warm weather coming, or worse , not participating in the market. When you do receive an offer , holding out for “something better” instead of negotiating to acceptance with a buyer that has proven their commitment to the process by submitting a written offer. Receiving a written offer is not an impulse.

Present Market : FOR EVERY ACTION THERE IS A REACTION. If your property is a multiple offer candidate, you will not only know that immediately, you will most likely be surprised at how serious the qualified buyers are and how quickly that comes… or goes.  Manage your expectations and follow the counsel of your real estate advisor.  I have many financial websites/RSS feeds/blogs that I follow.  The Wall Street Journal has continuous articles about our national real estate statistics and trends. Obviously, we are all on the same page and acknowledge that the national percentages of growth or decline are just that, a sweeping generalization of production as a whole.  Lake Geneva is a specialized niche market that stands alone and creates it’s own trends, apart from national averages.

SH_VS_BluffLake Geneva Real Estate - lakefront and lake access homes do not need a specific season to sell. We have a very unique, niche market that has consistent values year round.

GlenwoodSpAO300Sellers: Make the decision to commit to selling.  Commit to yourself:  You are in charge of the decisions, I am in charge of the process. Commit to spending the time and perhaps money that it will take to have your home presentable for listing and the price that will command attention and a written offer. Buyers & sellers have the same amount of stress just on different ends of the transaction. Eliminate real estate stress by understanding the details included in the offer and asking questions.   We’re ready for the questions if you’re ready for the answers!

Buyers: Make a decision, a commitment to purchasing and your real estate advisor. Commit to making the decision of what your true comfort level is for a purchase price and be honest with yourself prior to writing offers. Don’t write an offer at your maximum budget, then get cold feet and try to use the inspection to negotiate backwards.  In the same respect, offering significantly less than the list price on homes that clearly have the value is equally as unproductive.

The more educated we are on a subject, the less we fear the outcome. Watch the market through me.  See the new listings within 24 hours of posting and find out the price of ‘solds’ the same day they close.  This is the easiest, most convenient way to get a pulse on the Lake Geneva real estate market without the hassle of having to commit to a decision before being familiarized with the actual activity within our market.MWCreeksideGWSp

Hans & Michalene Melges Keefe Real Estate

Hans & Michalene Melges – Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate Top Producing Team

As Lake Geneva Realtors, the Melges’ share their in-depth knowledge and experience around Geneva Lake with their clients and customers. Listening to what your goals are, Hans and Michalene will help you formulate a specific marketing plan to get your home sold. When you work with the Melges Team, it’s more than just another real estate transaction, they work to build your trust and confidence as your trusted real estate advisor for life. Contact the Melges Team at (262) 745-3738 for real estate advice and to help your family make the best decision for your move!

FacebookLogo1michalene melges twitter

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Access Homes, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes, Williams Bay Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We Have Buyers Looking for Lake Geneva Lakefront Property

April 12, 2013 By

Does this describe your Lake Geneva lakefront property?

Photo Via Pinterest

Photo Via Pinterest

We have buyers that are looking for specific property on Geneva Lake and in surrounding communities.  We have looked at everything that is currently listed for sale.  None of the current inventory fits the needs of these customers, so we wanted to reach out to you.  If you’ve been thinking about selling your home, and your property fits any of these scenarios, can you please call us?  (262) 745-3738

These Lake Geneva Buyers are ready to offer and looking for the right property!

1.  Level frontage with first floor master bedroom or an elevator.

2.  Slightly elevated lake frontage with minimal stairs.

3.  Cedar Point Park home “On the Park.”

4.  5 bedroom Lake Geneva lakefront home on the West End of the lake.

Sometimes clients call us not looking to purchase a lakefront home, but rather they want to rent.  People often like to try a location for a vacation in the summer to see if the location fits their lifestyle.  Right now, we have a client looking to rent a Lake Geneva Lakefront Home for a small wedding in July.  They are looking for a 10 day rental!

If you have a Lake Geneva property that might fit any of these clients, please contact us.  Our goal is to put buyers & sellers together so they can both achieve their real estate goals.  These clients are all looking forward to spending the summer on the lake… they just have to find the right home.

Thanks in advance for your help!  Referrals are the backbone of our business and your trust in us is sincerely appreciated.

“It was a pleasure to work with Michalene, the Melges Team.  She understands the market and has instincts that are difficult to find.  After we understood the market, we were confident about our numbers and the decision to sell our home.  Shortly after we met her, we had a nickname for her, “Tiger Lady”!! Once she gets her teeth in a project, she doesn’t let go!
Thank you for helping us pursue our dream!”
~Michael & Barbara

Call the Melges Team – We know exactly what our buyers are looking for! 

FacebookLogo1

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Access Homes, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Crazy only begins to describe Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate

April 8, 2013 By

parasailing lake genevaAs I was organizing my week this morning, the realization hit that this past weekend was the busiest weekend we’ve had in Lake Geneva real estate this year yet!

It was crazy busy, but very productive.  It’s like people have had pent up energy that they were just waiting for the weather to turn so they could see homes in person rather than just looking them up online!  The weekend netted 3 accepted offers, another in negotiation, a listing appointment and numerous buyer inquiries.

Why is the Lake Geneva real estate market suddenly so hot?

First, people are looking now, so they can negotiate the offer, satisfy all contingencies and close before Memorial Day.  This will allow them to enjoy a full summer at the lake without having a major move in the middle of it.

Secondly, we’ve seen a number of new Lake Geneva lakefront and lake access listings come on the market in the last few weeks that have buyer’s attention.  When homes come on the market at the right price, buyers are very serious and writing offers.  What is at the right price?  THAT is the million dollar question.  Yesterday there was an article in the WSJ about how much the real estate market is up since 2012.  It’s important to remember that overall, the market is up.  However, real estate is very localized.  What one metro area shows for statistics can be very different from another market just an hour away.

The Lake Geneva real estate market is very unique.  Being a destination for people from Chicago to Indianapolis, Lake Geneva’s vacation home market creates a real estate bubble.  Vacation homes are among the first to appreciate and hold their values stronger than standard, year round residential homes.  Right now, we’ve experienced an influx of great buyers causing lake access and lakefront luxury homes to move quicker than a year or two ago.  However, prices have not increased on a local level in Lake Geneva real estate.   In time they certainly will, but the growth that we’re seeing now is from the number of buyers in the market, and inventory turning over quicker than compared to 2012.

What does this mean if you’ve been thinking about selling your Lake Geneva lakefront property?

Buyers are active and looking.  Like we saw this past weekend, people want to find their dream home, negotiate and close before summer.  If you’re thinking about selling, right now it’s time to talk straight about what the market numbers look like for your home.  Looking at recent Solds and comparing them to your property allows us to give you an accurate price range where you can get predictable results for selling your home.

If you are looking to buyer your Lake Geneva vacation home, commit to your decision.

With more buyers, this means home do sell quicker.  When you and your family see a home that fits what you are looking for in style and more importantly, location, make your decision and put it on paper.  Get in front of that seller before other buyers do.  You also want to make sure you’re on our preferred email list so you can get new listings as soon as they come on the market.  Being first in the door gives you the opportunity to write an offer before other buyers can get in competition with you.

If you’re new to the Lake Geneva real estate market, get your questions answered.  Be clear about what it is your goals are and work with a Realtor you trust to have your best interests in front of them.  We’re happy to answer your questions and help you find the home of your dreams.

–

Michalene & Hans Melges - Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Michalene & Hans Melges – Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Lake Geneva Lakefront Realtors, the Melges Team shares their in-depth knowledge and experience around Geneva Lake with their clients and customers. Listening to what your goals are, Hans and Michalene will help you formulate a specific marketing plan to get your home sold. When you work with the Melges Team, it’s more than just another real estate transaction, they work to build your trust and confidence as your trusted real estate advisor for life. Contact the Melges Team at (262)745-3738 for real estate advice and to help your family make the best decision for your move!

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter for more insider info on real estate and everything Lake Geneva!

FacebookLogo1michalene melges twitter

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Access Homes, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Adding Luxury to your Lake Geneva Lakefront Property

March 26, 2013 By
monogrammed bedroom lake geneva wi real estate agent

Image via Pinterest

Working with Lake Geneva lakefront clients every day, we really have a great feel for what people are looking for when they are shopping for their dream home.

Right now, buyers have been out shopping in great numbers.  They are writing offers, but they are being selective when choosing which homes to make offers on.  Buyers are searching for value in lakefront property.  They want to know that their purchase will hold it’s value months after they’ve closed and that over time their home will realize great appreciation.

In reading an article from the LA Times, the interesting comparison is that the luxury home real estate market is similar here on Lake Geneva to that on the West Coast.  While prices of homes are different the inherent values people are looking for in a property remain the same. 

View and Location remain paramount in the search for luxury homes.  If you are a homeowner that is planning on selling your Lake Geneva property and you have a view of the water, do whatever brush clean up, tree trimming, new window treatments is necessary to maximize your view.  Buyers want to see the lake from as much of the property as possible.

Buyers are also looking for functional space.  The layout is key for lakefront buyers.  They want to have a spacious home to host all of their family and friends and yet they still want smart, livable space.  So whether they have 50 guests, or it’s just their family of 4 buyers want to be comfortable and enjoy the flow of the home.

lake geneva wi lakefront real estate

Image via Pinterest

When we’ve toured all the lakefront listings that could possibly fit the client’s wants & needs and they still haven’t found THE ONE, then it’s time we discuss building their dream home.  Building a home front the ground up they can have everything on their wish list and more.  Finding vacant land with water frontage is a challenge to do, but for many buyers, the perfect lot in the perfect location is priceless whether it has any buildings on it or not.  For the right buyer, the opportunity to build their dream home and add all their own finishing touches outweigh the construction timeline or the demolition of older buildings on the property.

For help finding exactly what you are looking for when buying a Lake Geneva lakefront property, working with professionals that know the lake inside and out as well as have a passion for living on the lake is paramount.  Listening to what you are looking for and having the market knowledge to find the perfect house for you is an intangible asset.  We love helping people discover their dream home and we’re happy to help you find yours too!

——

Michalene & Hans Melges - Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Michalene & Hans Melges – Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Lake Geneva Lakefront Realtors, the Melges Team shares their in-depth knowledge and experience around Geneva Lake with their clients and customers. Listening to what your goals are, Hans and Michalene will help you formulate a specific marketing plan to get your home sold. When you work with the Melges Team, it’s more than just another real estate transaction, they work to build your trust and confidence as your trusted real estate advisor for life. Contact the Melges Team at (262)745-3738 for real estate advice and to help your family make the best decision for your move!

 


Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What the heck is going on with the Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate Market?

March 22, 2013 By
lake geneva lakefront vacation rental

Listed for Sale & as a Vacation Rental Call (262)745-3738 for more info.

If you’re a Lake Geneva lakefront property owner, do you know what’s actually happening with the Lake Geneva real estate market?

Earlier we posted a link on our Lake Geneva Summer Facebook page to an article showcasing what $3.2 million would buy around the country.  It’s always interesting to see the value of luxury vacation homes in other markets.  Not only does it showcase how real estate trends are shaping up on a national scale, but it also demonstrates just how important it is to be well versed in your own local real estate market.

As Lake Geneva lakefront Realtors, we work exclusively the vacation home market focusing on lakefront and lake access homes.  Focusing specifically on that market, we have a pulse of all the market activity all the time.  This is the best way we can help our clients position their homes competitively when they are selling.  It’s also how we know of lakefront homes coming on the market before the public does, ensuring our buyers are the first in the door to see new listings.

lake geneva real estate lakefront for saleRight now, the Lake Geneva lakefront market has 39 homes for sale.  4 are currently under contract and I know a few others that are being negotiated.  The lakefront market has had an influx of new buyers in the last few weeks.  As the weather turns more spring-like I can assure you more people will be visiting Lake Geneva & Fontana resulting in even more buyers being thrust into the marketplace.

If you’ve been contemplating listing your home for sale, it’s time to talk numbers now.  Part of the plan when you are getting ready to list your home includes doing the necessary improvements and updates to showcase your home to the fullest potential.  If you have a lake view, now’s the time to clean up the trees so the view is wide open and beautiful to any buyer visiting your home for the first time.

We all do spring cleaning, so you probably have a list of things you want to get done.  Make sure steam cleaning the carpets is on that list.  As buyers are looking at homes, they are looking for what would need to be done when they move in.   Understand, they don’t want to have a huge list of “to do’s” on closing day.  By having the carpets cleaned and freshening up your paint on your front steps and porch, it’ll allow the buyer to see your home in a better light as being “move-in ready!”  Thus allowing their mind to see the possibilities and opportunities rather than the projects.

For more help getting your Lake Geneva property ready to sell, call or text (262) 745-3738. 

The key to getting predictable results is using a proven system.  The system includes visually getting the home staged, having a home inspection done to address any potential defects in the home prior to the house coming on the market, calculating the target priced based on facts & statics that will give you a predictable result.

Michalene & Hans Melges - Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Michalene & Hans Melges – Lake Geneva Lakefront Luxury Home Top Producers

Lake Geneva lakefront real estate isn’t about having a crystal ball.  A successful closing depends on doing the right things in the right order from the very beginning to get proven results!


FacebookLogo1Like us on Facebook to stay on top of the Lake Geneva Lakefront Real Estate Market! http://www.Facebook.com/InsideLakeGeneva

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Lake Access Homes, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Historic Lake Geneva Lakefront Estate Looking for Perfect Match

March 17, 2013 By

In search of the perfect match to share beautiful sunsets, long walks along the shore path and sunny afternoons overlooking the peaceful lake.  I have the perfect pier for your boat.  If you’ve been looking for the perfect Lake Geneva lakefront property, I’m your match!

lake geneva lakefront property

Beautiful Frontage on Geneva Lake

Welcome to the Allerton Estate, a treasured property on Geneva Lake’s North Shore.  It was the prized location of “The Folly” built in 1884. Nestled among the tall trees, the Allerton Estate encompasses 9 acres of pristine and prime property off of Snake Road.

allerton estate lake geneva wi

Historic Photo of Original Allerton Estate

From the historic pillars at the entrance, down the winding path and rolling landscape, the views of Geneva Lake are evident throughout the property. The 9 acres of pristine natural landscape leads to the 121 feet of breathtaking Geneva Lake frontage and sandy beach.

Pieces of the original Allerton Estate remain scattered throughout the property, including the original stable. The history of the original estate is documented by Ann Wolfmeyer & Mary Burns Gage, in Lake Geneva, Newport of the West.

lake geneva mansions

Historic 6 acre Sunnyhill estate just closed.

Recently, one of the most historic Lake Geneva lakefront estates, known as “Sunnyhill” sold. This property was purchased by a Kenilworth family, The Blomeyers, in 1929. The home was a treasured part of their family and a treasured part of Lake Geneva history. When we closed on the sale of the property, another chapter in the history of Lake Geneva’s mansions closed. Sunnyhill, a 6 acre property, with a private pillared entrance, rolling landscape, original ‘out buildings’ on the property, had a towering and majestic view of the lake. A simple, yet charming old path took you right down to the lake, private pier and sandy beach.

The Folly/Allerton Estate offers 9 acres of prized Lake Geneva property and lake frontage. The estates of Geneva Lake are steeped in tradition, history, and notoriety.

Imagine the possibilities of developing this property into the new generation of Geneva Lake mansions. The perfect opportunity to create your own legacy and to begin a new generation of enjoyment and pleasure with your family.

Private Entrance down the winding driveway to the most beautiful lakefront property.

Private Entrance down the winding driveway to the most beautiful lakefront property.

This historic homesite is showcased on Page 2 of the Lake Geneva Regional News this week.  The 9 acre property is listed at $3,250,000.  It includes a beautiful pier system and gorgeous views.  All that’s missing in your vision for your dream home.  To tour the property, see the views and start creating your story. Contact us for a private tour. Call or text (262)745-3738


Filed Under: Featured Properties, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

First Sale in 84 Years for Historic Lake Geneva Lakefront Mansion

March 6, 2013 By
lake geneva lakefront mansions

Historic Geneva Lake Lakefront Home Sold for the first time in 84 years!

Geneva Lake is steeped in history and the shoreline is adorned with gorgeous lakefront estates and historic mansions.

As a Lake Geneva lakefront real estate agent, and having grown up on the shores of Geneva Lake, our love for the lake and it’s history is evident.  We love helping our clients discover their “perfect spot” on the lake to raise their family, go boating, watch fireworks, sail and everything that encompasses living the Lake Geneva lifestyle.

We closed on one of the most historic Lake Geneva lakefront estates recently.  The property, known within our lake community as Sunnyhill was purchased by the Kenilworth/Blomeyer family in 1929!  It’s been handed down from generation to generation to use and share with their kids every summer ever since!  How often do you find a home that has not been on the market for sale in 84 years?

lake geneva lakefront real estate agents

Hungry Hall – many family meals were enjoyed for decades around this table!

There are not many Lake Geneva lakefront properties that have stood the test of time.  Thus, making this lakefront sale even more significant for our Lake Geneva real estate market.

Sunny Hill Historic District, consisted of four white homes built between 1890 and 1910. The third one is Angel’s Flight, so named for the long staircase that connects it to the lakefront has always been a landmark for most of us that have grown up boating on Lake Geneva. Sunnyhill is a statuesque estate that is the last of the four estates standing.

The property is 6 acres with a pillared entrance off of North Lake Shore Dr. The buildings have remained the same since the original acquisition in 1929. The woodworking and sleeping porches are incredible, “Hungry Hall” a wing that the family added on is one of the most memorable parts of the estate and became of favorite for the buyers that were seriously interested in purchasing the property. The property has one of the most memorable lake views, Is there anything more incredible than opening up a wall of slider windows in a sun room to a majestic view on a summer afternoon and watching your family play on the lake? That is the feeling that kept this family coming back, it becomes a family tradition.

Selling such a historic property came with it’s fair share of challenges.  Realizing what was up to code in 1929 doesn’t necessarily conform to today’s building and zoning laws.  When the buyers were considering what their intentions were with the property, those building & zoning laws were just a few of the challenges we had to get answers to and satisfy.

underground storage tank removal lake geneva wi

3 storage tanks that needed to be removed and inspected prior to closing. Thanks to David Bauer at GZA and his crew for getting this done for us!

In total, there were 37 people involved in this transaction.  Communication has never been more important than it was in getting this historic Lake Geneva lakefront estate sold.  If one person dropped the ball, the entire transaction could have fallen apart.  Seriously, that is how critical good communication is to getting transactions successfully closed.  We were in constant communication (several times daily) with several attorneys, our clients and the buyer’s attorney.  When we had to work through the zoning and building situation, the title company, Walworth County, the attorneys and Realtors were all involved.  We all went in with the same goal, to help the buyers purchase Sunnyhill!

Leading up to closing there were several things that needed to be taken care of just prior to closing, ensuring all the loose ends were tied up.  Getting 3 underground storage tanks removed in February was one of those incredible feats.  Getting the driveway plowed so the trucks could get down to the property was another.  All those last minute details were successfully accomplished because of the team of service providers we have working with us.  We have built a great team of trusted professionals that help us make sure our transactions close successfully.  From getting the home ready to list (painting, cleaning, landscape clean up) to those transactional details like home inspections, well & septic inspection, underground storage tank removal, title company and lenders etc. our service providers are the heart of those details.  We are so grateful to work with such consummate professionals.

If we could give you one piece of advice if you are planning to sell your home, it’s to look for a real estate agent that specializes in your type of property and has a track record of excellent communication.  You should not feel awkward asking them for previous client referrals or experiences.  The real estate agent you choose to work with should have a strong online and offline presence, ensuring your home will be seen by potential buyers no matter where they have started their search.  They also should be able to provide you with a statistical analysis of your specific market to help you get predictable results when you’re selling your home.  There’s nothing worse than having someone with poor communication so you’re left to wonder what’s going on with your home, or worse, are they doing anything to market your property!

historic lake geneva estate

Morning coffee or afternoon tea, the sunroom overlooking the lake is magnificent!

To discuss your property, we’d be happy to share our system and proven network of professionals to help get your home sold.  Call or text us at: (262)745-3738 to set up time to meet.  We’re happy to answer your questions and promise, you won’t wonder where your home stands.  We’ll give you the proof you desire to get your home sold!

The view from another historic Lake Geneva Lakefront Estate for sale. Contact us to find out more! (262)745-3738

The view from another historic Lake Geneva Lakefront Property for sale. Contact us to find out more! (262)745-3738

The historic sale of the Sunnyhill Estate was a pleasure to work with.  We have other historic lakefront properties for sale and would be happy to help you find one of the classic Lake Geneva lakefront homes if that’s what you are looking for!

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes, SOLD Listings Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What’s the Lake Geneva Vacation Home Real Estate Market up to?

February 25, 2013 By

vacation home real estate market aspen lake geneva wiLake Geneva Vacation Home Real Estate Market in February has been incredibly busy.

Having just gotten back into town from a week taking our boys to a ski camp and then having a little fun on the slopes, I worked the whole time!  It’s incredible how busy our vacation home real estate market is in Lake Geneva right now.  I don’t know what I would have done if we didn’t have WIFI, seriously.   From negotiation offers and staying on top of surveys, invoices, contract deadlines and even managing getting 3 massive underground storage tanks dug up from a property we’re waiting to close on – business is no longer limited to being home.

underground storage tank removal lake geneva wi

3 storage tanks that needed to be removed prior to closing. Thanks to David Bauer at GZA and his crew for getting this done for us!

While in Aspen, it’s so fun to see what other vacation home real estate markets are like.  Of course with the mountains, the backdrop in Aspen was beautiful.  But the interesting fact is that like the market of lakefront and lake access homes on Lake Geneva, their vacation home market is really busy too!  Prices are starting to rebound out there and their community is always fun and bustling!

Reading a recent article, experts from several different authorities were discussing how vacation home sales helping to bring back the US real estate market.  New studies from the National Association of Realtors indicate that buying a second home could mean big savings and a great investment for some. We have been noticing that vacation home buyers are essentially buying their retirement homes early and planning as a family with their children and grandchildren in mind.  Talking within our office, it’s proven here.  There have been more showings set up in January and February than we’ve seen in years for those months.  It goes to show what we’ve been discussing for weeks… the Lake Geneva real estate market isn’t seasonal anymore.  Vacation homes are a year round desire for buyers and those that are looking right now (and writing offers) are very serious about purchasing.  They want to close and have home renovations done to suit their tastes so when Spring and Summer weather arrive, they are home and ready to play!

If you’re looking to sell your vacation home on Lake Geneva, we’re happy to share the details about our market with you.  From what has sold comparable to your home and what is currently on the market for sale, your strength is in knowing your numbers.  Our strength is in bringing you the numbers and the statistics so when you list your home you have every advantage and a team that can get you the exposure you deserve - both online and offline!  Call or text (262)745-3738 and we’d love to talk with you and set up a meeting to see your home.

2013 has started very strong for the Lake Geneva vacation home real estate market.  Will you achieve success in selling your home this year? If you want predictable results, you have to start with the facts and we will help you with that!

hans melges lake geneva lakefront real estate agent

Father son bonding time!

The best students, camp was hard work, but the experience was invaluable!

The best students, camp was hard work, but the experience was invaluable!

aspen skiing

The moment mom holds her breath and calls in a few extra prayers.


Filed Under: Featured Posts, Fontana, Lake Access Homes, Lake Geneva, Lakefront Homes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,
«Older Posts