Wisconsin homeowners can claim a tax credit from the lottery.

 

Here's how to make sure you're not missing out

The Wisconsin Lottery saw record high overall ticket sales of $981.7 million in 2023, its most recent financial report shows. About a third of that — or $319.7 million — went to property tax relief.

Since lottery tickets first went on sale in Wisconsin in 1988, the state constitution has required that all net proceeds go towards reducing property tax bills.

But that relief isn't automatically applied. Since 1999, property owners have been required to apply for the lottery and gaming credit in order to receive it.

Many homeowners are already receiving the credit on their bill because a previous owner applied in the past. But if you're a property owner who has never seen the lottery credit applied to your bill, you may still need to sign up.

Here's who qualifies for the credit and how to apply. READ MORE

The average home in Milwaukee sells for about $228,000. How that compares with suburbs.

The average home in Milwaukee sells for about $228,000. How that compares with suburbs.

It's been nearly five years since the pandemic supercharged the Milwaukee-area home market.

Now, in 2025, homes that were once affordable for the typical Milwaukee worker are selling for top dollar, as homebuyers compete for a limited supply of homes.

What does an "average" home look like anymore in the Milwaukee area? We searched in seven different communities across the region. Here's a look... READ MORE

2025 NY Resolutions for Your Home - TIP #4

 

Tips for Home Buyers

4. Work with a TEAM HOFFMANN 

Buying a home can feel overwhelming. Remember, we're here to guide you every step of the way...

Give us a call 414 - 897 - 0098.

Prepare for the New Year

Tips for Home Sellers

4. Partner with TEAM HOFFMANN

We have the market knowledge and connections to attract serious buyers.

No matter where your real estate journey takes you in 2025, preparation is key. With these tips and the right support, you’ll be ready to make your next move with ease. Here’s to a successful new year!

2025 NY Resolutions for Your Home - TIP #3

 

Tips for Home Buyers

3. Get Organized

Before starting your home search, gather essential documents. By doing so, you’ll ensure a smoother process when you find your dream home. Be sure to have:

   - Bank and income statements

   - Credit information

   - Tax returns

   - Personal identification 

Tips for Home Sellers

3. Make Updates and Finish Projects

Small upgrades can make a big impact on your home’s appeal. For example:

   - Declutter and organize

   - Freshen up with paint or minor repairs

   - Complete any lingering renovation projects

Well-maintained homes often sell faster and at better prices.

2025 NY Resolutions for Home Buyers & Sellers - TIP #2

 

Tips for Home Buyers

2. Monitor Your Credit

Credit scores can be tricky, but they’re critical for securing favorable mortgage rates. Therefore, aim for a score of 720 or higher to access the best deals. 

Here’s how to get there:

   - Pay your bills on time

   - Keep credit card balances low

   - Reduce your lines of credit to three or fewer

   - Check your credit report regularly for accuracy

Tips for Home Sellers

2. Set a Time Frame

If you have a target move date, establish your timeline early. For instance, account for:

   - Time to list and sell your home

   - The closing process

   - Your personal transition to a new property

We can help you back into an ideal timeline.

2025 NY Resolutions for Home Buyers & Sellers - TIP #1

 

Tips for Home Buyers

1.  Save Strategically to Purchase your Dream Home

While home prices may stabilize, interest rates remain high, and cash buyers are still active.

It might take time for significant changes to occur, so focus on building your savings. 

For example:

   - Bank your tax refund

   - Use coupons and take advantage of sales

   - Consider working an extra shift to boost savings

Tips for Home Sellers

1.  Research and Plan Ahead to Sell your Home

The market remains dynamic, with potential for high sale prices but unpredictable inventory. Consequently, it’s essential to do your homework:

   - Review local real estate reports

   - Understand current market conditions

   - Set realistic expectations regarding

      - Pricing

      - Timing

2025 New Year’s Resolutions for Home Buyers and Sellers

 As 2024 winds down, it’s the perfect time to reflect and plan for the year ahead. If your New Year’s resolution includes a new chapter in your real estate journey, we’re here to help! Whether you’re buying or selling a home in 2025, these tips will help you navigate the process with confidence.

Looking Back at 2024 - The past year brought high median home prices, high interest rates, and low inventory levels. As we head into 2025, many are wondering if now is the right time to make a move.

2025 12 NY Resolutions for your home - JANUARY: Add/Design a Home Gym

 

JANUARY 2025:
Add/Design a Home Gym

If you’ve made a New Year’s resolution to get fit in 2025, improve the odds of following through by creating a home gym. Start by decluttering that catch-all room, and then set up the space with these essential features:

1. Get a mirror with safety backing to keep an eye on your form and your progress.

2. Invest in some shock-absorbent rubber flooring.

3. Install an industrial fan to stay cool during high-intensity workouts.

4. Set up a smart TV for digital subscriptions and free YouTube workouts.

5. Purchase gym equipment specific to your fitness needs.

According to HomeAdvisor, building a home gym costs around $5,700 to $33,300, excluding the equipment. But don’t let the sticker shock fool you: A home gym practically pays for itself. Working out from home can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars a year, considering the average fitness membership costs up to $840 annually.

12 New Year’s Resolutions for a Happier, Healthier and More Valuable Home in 2025... One Month at a Time!

The beginning of 2025 brings a fresh opportunity to create a living environment that not only looks good but feels good, fostering a lifestyle that’s both happier and healthier. If you’re still refining your New Year’s resolutions, home improvements might just be the perfect addition to your list.

Our homes are more than just physical structures. They’re the backdrop to our daily lives, influencing our moods, productivity, and overall well-being. So this 2025, why not make resolutions that go beyond the usual fitness and career goals and consider upgrading and enhancing the space you call home? 

We’ve gathered recent remodeling data and spoke with top-selling real estate agents to curate a list of the best home improvement projects to tackle in the new year.

GMAR December 2024

December 2024 - Report Highlights

• Sales Through End of Year Up, But Lackluster Overall 

• Market Needs Thousands of New Units Despite Increased Listings 

• Metro Prices Up 6.2%, Averaging $443,605 

Happy New Year from Team Hoffmann - RE/MAX LAKESIDE

 

Happy New Year 2025