The time is short for those Buyers who want to take advantage of the First Time Buyers Tax Credit of up to $8,000 and the existing homeowners credit of up to $6500. April 30, 2010 is not all that far away.  Locating property, and getting financing takes longer than most buyers realize.  Let me help you get the job done on time. Jerry Morse, Broker The Morse Company www.jerrymorse.com   01/17/2010

It's the last day of 2009 and I'm reflecting on how 2009 went for our area.  I reported to you that our GM plant had closed exactly one year ago now.  It amazes me that as I went to our local restaurants and stores, there is still plenty of business.  I am happy to say that it seems like our economy is not as bad as we thought it was going to be.  Having said that our unemployment is the 2nd highest in the state and I know the GM folks are still receiving their benefits for a bit longer.  We can only wonder if it will be a bit tougher when those benefits run out. Our Real Estate market has seen increases every month for the past several months. I am finishing the year with over 50 sides closed!  It's the same as I closed in 2008.  The only difference is the values are down, so I'm closi... 12/31/2009

Before Christmas I had the chance to ring bells for the Salvation Army with my fellow Realtors!We had the great opportunity to raise more the $4800.00 in just one day.  While that sounds like a great thing, I hear that the Salvation Army is $18,000 short of their goal.  While our area has been hit hard like many others, we have lost several thousand jobs in the past year.  There are so many wonderful things the Salvation Army can do.  Without the funding, there will be a great hole.  Can you find it in your heart to contribute just a little money to your local Salvation Army?  I know it will make a difference to someone! For more info on our local Salvation Army, please go to http://www.janesvillesa.org/ Have a prosperous New Year! 12/29/2009

So it's a week before Christmas!  How are you doing with your shopping?  I, like you all, are most likely almost done.  Yet I have some last minute things to do.  I encourage all of you this year to try to find a local vendor and/or store to make purchases from.  Your gifts purchased locally will make a difference to someone in your area.  So, for your last minute items please think of your local vendors and restaurants for all your last minute needs!! Happy Shopping!   Julie   12/16/2009

While 2009 may have been the worst year in real estate in recent history, 2010 promises to be much better. If you are thinking of selling, There are 5 Good Reasons to get started right now! 1.  Interest rates are still very low and help make Housing Affordable for Buyers. 2.  The First Time Buyer credit of $8000 has been extended to April 30, 2010.  The income limits for the Buyers has been increased. 3.  The First Time Buyer credit has been extended to existing home owners that have owned and occupied their current or recently sold home in the amount of $6500.  That may just get you a buyer who wants to move up or down.  Also, if you sell your home and are buying another, the $6,500 would be a nice gift for you. 4.  Inventory levels are actually low in many areas, including ours in Sou... 12/15/2009

As of this date, 12-07-09, Home Sales show improvement over last year at this time. JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN: Currently there are 494 Homes listed for sale with an average Asking Price of $150,753. In the last 30 days 59 Homes sold for an average Sales Price of $126,916, compared to 37 homes that sold for an average Sales Price of $120,115 in the same 30 day period last year. This shows an improvement in the number of sales, as well as an increase in the average Sales Price. Just another indication, that the Bottom has been reached, and recovery has started. So Buyers, take advantage of the First Time Buyer Tax Credit of $8,000 and the low interest rates. Sellers, now is the time to sell, and take advantage of the Existing HomeOwner Tax Credit of $6,500 on your next residence. Call or emai... 12/07/2009

Janesville Wisconsin and Rock County have been hit especially hard by the Recession.  The local economy not only reflects the National trend, but was additionally affected by the closing of the Janesville GM Plant, as well as several other plant closings. But, the last 20 days have shown some marked improvement in Single Family Home Sales: 1.  Single Family sales have been more than double in 2009 versus 2008. 2.  There have been approximately 39 sales this year versus 19 for 2008. 3.  Average Sales prices have actually increased from $123,015 in 2008 to about $130,626 in 2009. 4.  Finally, even days on the market improved!  From 99 last year to 71 this year. This is the Most Significant Positive change I have seen all year!    Could we have possibly turned the corner?  It might just in... 11/20/2009

It appears that the $6,500 Tax Credit may not require that you sell your existing home. Of course, your new purchase must be for your principal residence, but you may be able to keep your existing home as an investment.  Selling your current residence probably is not necessary, as long as the 5 of 8 year requirement and other requirements of the Tax Credit are met! Stay Tuned! Jerry Morse, Broker The Morse Company jerrymorserealestate@yahoo.com www.janesvillewirealestatelistings.com www.janesvillewirealestateforsale.com www.janesvillehomesellers.com   11/17/2009

Friday, Sept. 25: YWCA Walk a Mile in her Shoes. This event--in which men walk one mile in women's shoes to help raise money for the YWCA of Rock County--starts and ends at Kutter Harley-Davidson and includes a party afterward. Go to www.ywcawalkamile.org for more information.   2009 YWCA Walk a Mile In Her Shoes Supporting women and girls, one step at a time... Last year, nearly 100 men, boys, and even women and girls, joined the YWCA Walk a Mile in Her Shoes one mile trek in high heels through downtown Janesville. (Like Paul Benish here of M&I Bank.) Help us reach our 2009 goal of 150-200 participants who will walk down Hwy 14 and Hwy 26 starting and ending at Kutter-Harley Davidson/Buell on September 25! Stay for the Walk a Mile After Party beginning at 5pm, sponsored by Kutter Harle... 09/25/2009

Are you supporting your local Farmer's Market?  You should be.  I intend to go again this morning. Summer Fun at the Market! Cooking Demonstrations, Recipe-Cooking Contest, Kids Activities The Janesville Farmer's Market has Summer activities scheduled for most Saturdays! Join the JFM Cooking Demonstrations every second Saturday of the month. Area cooks will show you how to cook produce and goods found at the JFM. Every third Saturday, show off your creative cooking skills at the Market's Recipe-Cooking Contest. Each month's Contest features a different theme, based on seasonal ingredients: June-Strawberries; July-Corn; August-Tomatoes; September-Potatoes; and October-Soups or Stews. Contest Rules and Entry Form are here. Finally, every fourth Saturday of the month is Kids' Activity Day.... 08/14/2009

The statistics are in for July 2009.  These numbers are direct from the MLS. There are 602 active listings currently with 95 new listings this month and 75 that sold.  The average sale price is $115,742 with average days on the market 111 and percent of sale to list 89%. Janesville's condo market has 71 active listings with 7 new this month and 10 sold.  The average sale price was $104,390 with the average days on the market 117 and the percent of sale to list 90%. Janesville's investment property has 74 active listings with 14 new and 6 sold.  The average sale price was $82,733 with the average days on the market 94 and the percent of sale to list 91%. Rock county has a total of 1491 active listings with 255 new this month and 177 sold.  The average sale price $124,090 and on the marke... 08/09/2009

Over 1000 in attendance last Sunday night watched the amazing Aqua Jays This event is held every Sun. and Wed. night at 7pm. Yes the performance is FREE, but donations are greatly appreciated.   The Rock Aqua Jays Water Ski Club, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that teaches safe boating and water skiing techniques. We perform twice weekly water ski shows from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend,Wednesday and Sunday at 7pm.We use our shows as a platform for teaching safe boating and water skiing techniques to members and the general public. Admission to a Rock Aqua Jays water ski show is always free, making our organization one of the last remaining free entertainment attractions in our community. We are proud to call Janesville, Wisconsin our home, and privileged ... 07/30/2009

With all the inventory we currently have, there are things you can do to help with the sale of your home. Never has it been more important to go above and beyond to attract a buyer.  The list below is from NAR and has some great points.  Make yourself attractive both with price and condition.  You will find a buyer! Simple Tips for Better Home Showings 1. Remove clutter and clear off counters. Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don't forget to clean out the garage, too.2. Wash your windows and screens. This will help get more light into the interior of the home.3. Keep everything extra clean. A clean house will make a stron... 07/30/2009

This is a busy week.  I've had 3 closings with a 4th one on Friday!  I'm excited to tell you that we've been busy.  Prices are NOT up but, the market is busy with 1st time and some move up buyers. I'm seeing more showings on my listings, which is great! I am really very lucky with the buyers and sellers I work with.  I just get to work with the nicest people. Whether they are 1st time or experienced, It's so much fun to work with the same people over and over again.  I even get to work with their children and/or parents.  Great fun! Still looking for people to get started with buying a home...I can just see how it's going to be with November 30 as the deadline...someone is not going to be happy! If you have been considering a home..the time is right!! 07/29/2009

Tax credit for home purchases could rise! New article out today in the USA today.  Below is the link to read about it! http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/housing/2009-06-22-homebuyer-credit-may-be-extended_N.htm Because we're still trying to get the housing market moving this just may be the best idea to help everyone.  What are your thoughts?? 06/22/2009

Saturday's events start with registration at Kutter's from 9:00 until 11:30 a.m. for the MDA tub Run. The ride leaves Kutter ‘s at noon sharp!!! Approximately 1,500 bikes and 2100 riders will pass down Pontiac Rd and Ruger ave leaving Janesville and winding through the scenic back roads of Rock County.If you can't be a participant, be a spectator! Cheer us on as we parade through Rock County. We'll Stop in picturesque Beloit.  Waving goodby to Beloit, We will head back to Janesville and our final stop at Thresherman's Park. On our final leg of the route Thresherman's Park welcomes us back at 3:30 for the final events: a steak dinner for $8.00, on & off bike games, live band playing from 7:00 to 11:00 pm. The silent auction and raffle are a big part of the MDA fund-raising! Thee are man... 06/19/2009

Navigating Short Sales: What to Do When the Sale Price Leaves You ShortIf you're thinking of selling your home, and you expect that the total amount you owe on your mortgage will be greater than the selling price of your home, you may be facing a short sale. A short sale is one where the net proceeds from the sale won't cover your total mortgage obligation and closing costs, and you don't have other sources of money to cover the deficiency. A short sale is different from a foreclosure, which is when your lender takes title of your home through a lengthy legal process and then sells it.   1. Consider loan modification first. If you are thinking of selling your home because of financial difficulties and you anticipate a short sale, first contact your lender to see if it has any programs t... 06/03/2009

Thinking of Making an Offer on a Short Sale? What You Need to Know    Are you looking to buy a new home? Are you thinking that now's a great time to find bargains? That's true, but it pays to know a little about the seller's situation before you make an offer.   If a home is being sold for below what the current seller owes on the property-and the seller does not have other funds to make up the difference at closing-the sale is considered a short sale. Many more home owners are finding themselves in this situation due to a number of factors, including job losses, aggressive borrowing against their home in the days of easy credit, and declining home values in a slower real estate market.   A short sale is different from a foreclosure, which is when the seller's lender has taken title of ... 06/03/2009

1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income. 2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you'd like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.4. Start saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment?  Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don't forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs - including taxes, attorney's fee, and transfer fees - average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price. 5. Get your credit in order. Obtain... 06/02/2009

2008 Cost vs. Value Report: Still Many Happy Returns for Home RehabsRemodeling magazine's annual report shows that maintenance-related projects and moderately priced upgrades are providing stable paybacks, even in a slower market. By G.M. Filisko | December 2008 Despite home price drops in many cities, remodeling projects are holding their own as a way for owners to add value.   Many people are wondering where their money will be safest during these uncertain economic times. When home owners turn to you for your expert advice, counsel them that some things never change: Investing in their home still pays off.   NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® statistics show that home prices have fallen by an average of 7 percent nationally in the past year. But the value of home owners' investment in... 06/01/2009