Relocate to Wisconsin

Back to Basics ... Giving the Necessities for the Womens Center

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:23:42 -0500

Anyone who reads our blog on a regular basis...or gets our newsletter, knows that The Womens Center is our primary charity of choice....and one that we encourage others to choose as theirs as well. There are lots of times when your community may solicit food, toy or clothing donations.

Reality says....that to to keep a Shelter running...you need to have the necessities as well as the "goodies". If you click right here...you will find the items that are most needed right now. Along with those...there are the "Items for use in the Shelter" list. We have made it a mission to dress a number of beds each year....pillow, sheets, blanket and today will be the day we deliver them. Along with them...we have a box we add to when we do our regular shopping.....it has shampoo, shower gel, cleaning supplies...things from the list. If you don't live in southeastern Wisconsin...you have a shelter that can use your help...google shelter in your area...OR if you do live in southeastern Wisconsin....and can't get to Waukesha to drop off your donation, call us...we will come and pick up whatever your wallet and heart allow you to give.

It's not too late to make New Year's resolutions....be resolved to be a better giver...it will make your heart glad and enrich the lives of those who cannot at this time, provide for themselves.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

“Our agent is on vacation ….Can You Show us some houses ?” Asked the buyer.

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 07:12:44 -0500

We could show you houses…but if we show you the house, we are also your agent for the houses we show you. It is better for you to decide to who you want to work with and stay with one agent. The buyer said that they had another agent who had shown them a few houses but they really didn’t feel he was listening to their needs and that he understood what they wanted. He did not know the areas they had chosen based upon their commute to work….they were not comfortable with him and had no buyer agency contract.

We explained our qualifications and sent them information about the areas and about our experience in real estate and suggested that he and his wife discuss who they would like to have represent them in the purchase of their home.

It would not be fair to either the present agent or to us to shop with more than one agent. When buyers ask us questions like this, we tell them that it would be like if they went to work and at the end of the week expected a paycheck. Instead of getting paid, the employer paid the person in the next office instead of paying them. They laughed…but this illustration made it clear to them that working with one agent and evaluating their background and experience in addition to how they felt the “personal chemistry” fit their needs helped them choose the agent who worked best for them and with them.

If you are looking for a home in southeastern Wisconsin, we invite you to call us, test our chemistry and interview us for the honor of being your agent for one of the largest purchases you will ever make. We are agents for a lifetime, and proud to be of service.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

When advertising your listing ---- what words should you stay away from?

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:07:49 -0500

We all have to be our own critics in writing descriptions careful to paint an attractive picture and at the same time, not discriminate or limit by the words we have chosen. Pacita makes some excellent points....copywriting is copy careful.

Via Pacita Dimacali - ePRO, SRES, CDPE, MBA Alain Pinel in Alameda County CA (Alain Pinel):

When advertising your listing ---- what words should you stay away from?

In a recent post on Active Rain, I noticed that the agent advertised the listing as “Walking distance to...”

It reminded me of certain rules in our MLS about certain words we should avoid.

Even Craigslist is very specific about their terms of use, their rules -- follow them or get flagged and have your post deleted, to wit:

CONDUCT You agree not to post, email, or otherwise make available Content:

d) that violates the Fair Housing Act by stating, in any notice or ad for
the sale or rental of any dwelling, a discriminatory preference based on
race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap
(or violates any state or local law prohibiting discrimination on the
basis of these or other characteristics);

Our local MLS is very strict about observing these rules. It helps to have transaction coordinators and assistant to keep us straight. As such, we as agents have to be very creative when describing properties and their marketable features in our advertising materials --- on the MLS, in print, online, etc.

Instead of saying “walking distance” say “near” or “close to” or even state measurable distance like “a hundred yards” or “quarter of a mile”

We don’t say “family” but refer to them as “households”. For example, we can lavish praise on a home, but never refer to it as a home for a “family”

Even “in-law” units are described as “au pair” quarters

We don’t mention children or parents …. but we work around that by mentioning “playgrounds” or play areas

We don’t mention school districts. Although we can mention a home is NEAR a certain school, we don’t say it’s IN that specific school district. To play safe, simply enter “Call School District”

P.S. I did what I thought was right by commenting on the poster's blog about what our own MLS rules prevent us from saying in our listings. My comment was immediately deleted by the poster. Must have been something I said. Oh well...

There must be other examples of what to avoid and how to get around them. If so, please share :)

When advertising your listing ---- what words should you stay away from?

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Please Reblog - Gail Wants Her ASUS Zenbook Back!

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 07:16:28 -0500

Everyone is entitled to good customer service....Let's help Gail get what she deserves....and the prompt over night at no extra charge of her formerly "valued partner" in her business. Customer service is a valuable asset to any business....and as this company may soon learn, if you don't provide it...you will have much less business to give service ! Go Gail !

Via Gail Robinson, Black Rock CT Real Estate blackrockhomesforsale.com (William Raveis Real Estate, Southport, CT):

For those of you considering buying an ASUS Zenbook, I want to share my experience to save you the pain I've been through. I paid $1,550 for the ASUS Zenbook UX31E (their top of the line model) on 11/21/11 from New Egg.com. On 11/28/11 I received the computer and began using it. It worked fine for the first four weeks and then began having problems starting up.  On 1/14/12 it didn't start at all and on 1/17/12 I sent it in to be serviced as instructed by ASUS (it was now just beyond NewEgg's 30 day guarantee).  They received the computer on 1/20/12.

I have had no phone calls or e-mails from ASUS at all. I have to call their Customer Service hotline, which consists of people in Malaysia or some other foreign land peering at a computer screen reading back to me the exact same information I obtain from the ASUS Service website. It is now almost two weeks and there is no indication on when my computer will be returned. The ASUS Service site states, "Waiting [WB-1] Wait for Material/Spare Parts".

Well, I've had it! I'm starting a social media campaign to put pressure on ASUS to either fix my machine or send me a new one! My client files are on that computer and it is very difficult to work without my files. Please reblog this post and Tweet it with the hashtags #ASUS #GailRobinson. Let's see if social media can work to get this arrogant giant's attention.

Thanks,

Gail

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Outstanding Short Value in Hartland Wisconsin - 4 Bed Colonial with Pool ! WOW !

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:05:18 -0500

If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity in the Village of Hartland... look no farther than this Short Sale - 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, first floor laundry...attached garage, beautiful lot with backyard conservancy border....Bring your decorating touches...return the hardwood floors on the first floor to their glory....Call the Hansons for your private showing...bring your checkbook !

Sally K. Hanson | Keller Williams | (414) 525-0563

684 Bradford Way, Hartland, WI

Welcome to Hartland...A Colonial Waiting for Your Creative Touches - A Great Opportunity !

4BR/2+1BA Single Family House

offered at $210,210

Year Built 1992 Sq Footage 2,234 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial Floors 2 Parking Unspecified Lot Size .3 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great room sizes, Good floor plan...living, family and dining room...sunny dinette with patio doors overlooking in ground pool. Floors require your creative touches...refinish hardwood and re-carpet. Redecorate to your taste...at this price...it's a wonderful opportunity !

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Central heat - Fireplace - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Family room - Living room - Dining room - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Granite countertop - Basement - Laundry area - inside - Yard - Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Natural Fireplace - Patio and Landscaped Yard - In Ground Pool - Master Suite with Walk In Closet - Finished lower level with wet bar/kitchen - First Floor Laundry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Fully applianced Kitchen

Master Bedroom

Sunny Dinette

Great Family Room

Living Room

Bedroom

Great Curb appeal

Contact info:

Sally K. Hanson

Keller Williams

(414) 525-0563

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Today's chuckle...

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:31:49 -0500

Because a part of our practice is devoted to divorcing/divorced couples...someone sent me this joke and thought I would share it...Enjoy !

How Many Women?

A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asked him, "How many women can a man marry?"

"Sixteen," the boy responded.

His cousin was amazed that he knew the answer so quickly. "How do you know that?"

"Easy," the little boy said.

"All you have to do is add it up, like the Preacher said: 4 better, 4 worse, 4 richer, 4 poorer."

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

WHICH Lender is it on Your Short Sale Listing ?

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 07:59:47 -0500

As agents who devote a part of our practice to Short Sales….we very often get the question….”Who is the Lender on this listing ?” OR from a prospective short sale Seller…”My lender is ABC Bank…is that a bad thing ?”

It really doesn’t matter to us who the lender is….we have made it our mission to build relationships with lenders everywhere.

There is a perception…By both agents and consumers:

- If the lender is X – It will never close

- Has more than one Lien – impossible to do

- Has a tax or other lien –won’t close

- The couple is divorcing and won’t agree on any offer

presented

If you as a homeowner, have interviewed an agent to list your home as a short sale, ask them to print out a list from the last couple years directly from MLS of the short sales Listed and Closed...the numbers should be close to matching and well into double digits.

If you are an agent...do your buyers a favor...look at the sales record of the agent who has the short sale listed....you don't want your buyers to be a Short Sale Experiment with an agent with little experience....OR with a win some/lost most or half closing average.

Wherever you are...whatever lender you have...whether you are a homeowner struggling with paying a mortgage or an agent who has not had the short sale education to navigate the slippery slopes of short sales...call us, we are happy to help you anywhere, anytime and direct you to someone who can assist you.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Experience OUTSTANDING Oriental Cuisine at MEIJI in Waukesha Wisconsin

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:39:04 -0500

It was our very great pleasure to celebrate Chinese New Year at MEIJI Chinese and Japanese Restaurant in Waukesha, WIsconsin with our very happy sellers who just received an offer on their home. Mrs. Seller is an oriental gourmet cook and in fact teaches cooking classes so we knew that their menu recommendations would be wonderful and we were not at all disappointed !

We followed our guests recommendation in their restaurant choice….a new restaurant owned by an experienced restauranteur,, a friend of our guests who paid meticulous attention to every aspect of our dining experience. We each had a different entrée and shared tasty tidbits around the table.

The appetizer was a specially prepared sushi…beautifully presented and the flavorful shrimp had sides of soy ….and for the more adventurous, Wasabi sauce.

David had the Beef in Sichuan SpicyBroth (#40) which came in a huge deep bowl complimented by a smaller bowl of rice. This entrée had two peppers pictured next to it indicating it was quite spicy…just the way he likes it. I chose a milder dish. #49. Scallion Lamb. A heaping platter size survey beautifully presented with a side of fresh vegetables elegantly arranged was outstanding…flavorful stir fried lamb with garlic and onion…very tender.

We ate in the Chinese dining room..there is also a Japanese dining room..you may choose either one and combine entrée items from either culture. Our guests reported that many other entrees and soups …including the legendary hot and sour (a cure of any congestion….or in case you still have your tonsils…WOW ! ) were worth comng back to try….as they had done many times.

A visit to MEIJI Cuisine is so much more than reading the menu and sampling the entrees, appetizers, soups and desserts...it is an indulgence in a cultural experience. In addition to an extensive menu, you can drink in the atmosphere and have a drink at the American bar that has its own extensive menu. You may choose one of your old favorites OR be adventurous and treat yourself to a sip from their selection of japanese whisky, sake and plum wine and other signature cocktails.Enjoy an appetizer with your cocktail...or make this your new place for a nightcap. Like the description we see in real estate...this restaurant and bar is "bigger than it looks" and you will want to experience it all.

Meihi Cuisine is very conveniently located at:

2503 Plaza Court, Waukesha,WI

To natives, if that doesn't sound familiar, it is the strip mall facing Bluemound Road just north of Barker Road.

Enjoy lunch specials, delightful dinners or cocktails:

Monday - Thursday 11-3 and 4:30 - 10 pm

Friday - Saturday 11-3 and 4:30 - 10:30 pm

Sunday 12:30 - 9:30pm

Reservations: 262-717-9858

We give this delicious experience all the stars in the Heavens and look forward to our return visits...you will too !

Experiencing the cultural diversity offered in southeastern Wisconsin is just one of the many reasons we have called the Badger state home for a lifetime, call us for a tour....and a taste of why you too will want this lifestyle experience.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Happy Chinese New Year !

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:23:21 -0500

HaGong Xi Fa Ca! That’s the traditional Chinese New Year greeting that means “wishing you prosperity” in Mandarin. Happy New Year ! Today begins the Chinese New Year and the year of the Dragon. The dragon is perceived as a mystical and auspicious creature in Chinese cultures and this year is expected to bring prosperity and transformational change.You need not be of Chinese descent to begin a positive approach at this time of their celebration which extends through the next two weeks.

We are not the experts on Chinese culture for sure ...ask Loreena Yeo who knows first hand all the traditions....we are just learning as we have clients and friends who are celebrating this holiday. One of the great things about southeastern Wisconsin is that it has such a great mix of cultures and people who take pride in their native land, tongue, cooking, traditions. They are happy to share them with you ....and we are anxious to learn. We have the Milwaukee Chinese Community Culture Center (MCCC) and this Chinese Culture Center offers a variety of cultural and educational programs. The New Year's party was held on Sunday, January 21st at the Mitchell Park Domes with a fabulous display of art, food, dance....all things Chinese and wonderfully colorful and exciting to watch, delicious to taste and educational to learn more about the Chinese culture.

If this little bit of eye candy has peaked your appetite for more exposure and education into this fascinating culture, you may contat the MCCC for more information on programs, events and volunteer opportunities.

We love Wisconsin ....and we are happy to show you all that we have to offer everyone who chooses, as we have to make it their home for a lifetime....HaGong Xi Fa Ca!

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Be Snow Careful Driving This Winter

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 07:40:59 -0500

Be Snow Careful This Winter Driving Season !

The snowfalls in the northern and midwestern parts of the country can lead to some challenging driving conditions. Whether you are new to this seasonal difference or have lived in these conditions all your life, the combination of snow, freezing rain, the appearance of black ice and slushy conditions require you to be especially cautious.

Experts tell us that one of the primary causes of accidents in this slippery season are worn spots on tires. If you have not already

checked your tires, or made this a regular part of your car maintenance program, do it now. A bald spot on a tire meeting a slick spot on the road or highway are ingredients for an accident.

Another common cause of accidents is very easily prevented…CLEAN OFF YOUR WINDOWS….ALL of them ! Inability to see out the back window or use the rear view mirrors or all of the windshield, can have tragic results. Taking a few minutes with a snow brush and scraper while the car warms up can mean saving you the possibility of an accident.

There are lots of fun activities to enjoy during the winter….sledding, skating, skiing…keep your outdoor activities fun filled and accident free…pro actively prepare for the changes nature deals our roadways this winter.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Mobile Vet Care...It' s "Wheelie" Great !

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:05:25 -0500

If you have ever taken a cat to a Vet...or for any car ride and they decide they would rather stay home...the unique yowling...using you for a scratching post, locking their "knees" to avoid the carrier.....knowing that the blanket or towel that comes out of the closet only for such trips means hide and seek...mostly hide...it can be and exhausting mis-adventure. Maybe you have dogs AND cats...or birds...or whatever your personal home zoo has for residents.....a house call from a vet a opposed to trying to transport them in a car....is a Blessing !

The stress it causes your pet and you is not worth it ! Enter Dr. Barbara Rossi, Mobile Vet Care and our new best pet friend ! Dr. Rossi and her very able assistant made a house call for Magic and Cosmo who are not fond of the car....and prefer their physicals done in the comfort of their own home. Cosmo, is well behaved....and knows it is for his own good that he is being examined, getting shots.....and will later get treats. Magic....well, in part, is named Magic because he prefers to disappear when he chooses and is not quite as friendly....but no cat bites later...his exam was complete and both were pronounced healthy. You can call Dr. Rossi at: 414-688-1049 and make an appointment for a home visit for your favorite feline, darling dog or whoever is your best friend with four feet, feathers, claws....and you will quickly become loyal patients and know she has patience with any kind of animal who may not like traveling for annual physicals or healthcare appointments.

Cosmo knows his good behavior is rewarded with all the Fancy Feast, Chunky Chicken he can eat at one sitting....all good things come to those cats who behave well....Reward yourself and your pet...Call Mobile Vet Care....no one cares more about the health of your pet than Dr. Rossi and you will be soooo pleased with the service !

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Have a Warm Heart at the Polar Plunge at Matty's Bar in New Berlin Wisconsin

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:13:54 -0500

You have heard it before....No one has a warmer heart that Matt Anderson....our pal, your host at Matty's Bar in New Berlin, Wisconsin and we know you won't want to miss your opportunity to add a little spark to those winter blues....and join the Polar Plunge ! Yes sports fans...to entertain ourselves....and others...AND most importantly, raise money for the ever deserving, Special Olympics, the brave of heart and warm of blood jump...wade, paddle the chilly waters of Muskego Lake and have a great time doing it !

You can choose...TAKE THE PLUNGE....OR Be TOO CHICKEN TO PLUNGE...whatever you choose you can contribute to this worthy cause....and have a great time doing it...! It will warm you inside and out to be an active participant in this special event.

PRE-REGISTRATION WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 8th 5-8 pm at Matty's Bar

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

"Almost New" Ranch in Mukwonago - Short Sale Priced to Sell NOW !

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:17:06 -0500

A few years ago....this home was in the path of a tornado.....and that is why, from the roof to the siding...much of the interior was all replaced....and now sparkles as one of the best values in Waukesha County. This short sale is ready to call home at this unbelievable price ! Take a peak and you will want a tour...bring your checkbook....don't let this be the one that "got away !"

Sally K. Hanson | Keller Williams | (414) 525-0563

111 Armstong Court, Mukwonago, WI

All things NEW.windows, roof, siding, deck, furnace, water heater, doors, paint..Fireplace, Rec Room, Above ground Pool

3BR/1+1BA Single Family House

offered at $157,555

Year Built 1979 Sq Footage Unspecified Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 1 full, 1 partial Floors 1 Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size .25 acres HOA/Maint $5 per month

DESCRIPTION

New inside and out from the siding and roof to the carpet, doors, windows, furnace, water heater...WOW ! A little patience with this short sale and you will have the value of a wonderful "like new" home at a great price ! Can Close quickly !! Call the Hansons: 414-525-0563 for your home tour today !

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Central heat - Fireplace - Tile floor - Family room - Living room - Bonus/Rec room - Dishwasher - Microwave - Basement - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard - Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Rec Room with Wood Burning Stove - Fieldstone Fireplace in Family Room - Eat in Kitchen - NEWER windows, carpet, roof, furnace, WOW ! - Deck and Above Ground Pool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

family room

Living room

Master Bedroom

Kitchen

Pool

Welcome Home !

Contact info:

Sally K. Hanson

Keller Williams

(414) 525-0563

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 17, 2012, 12:48am PST

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Casablanca...a Rocking Milwaukee Morrocan Menu .....Mmmmmm

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 07:39:01 -0500

Last night we had the great pleasure of having dinner at Casablanca on Brady Street...Brady Street is a wonderful mix of cultural culinary delights from many corners of the globe....and part of what makes southeastern Wisconsin such a diverse and wonderful place to live. This taste of the Middle Eastern cuisine promises to treat your tastebuds to the best you have ever had of these flavorful choices.

The entrance is complimented with two enclosed flaming torches a the end of a sheltering canopy. First founded in Milwaukee 30 years ago as The Sahara Inn by Chef Jesse Musa, the restaurant is now very much at home on Brady Street and Jesse's sons, Ramzi, Ala and Nasser, have taken over the restaurant's management. The passion for exotic spices and pride in bringing guests not only a welcoming atmosphere, but an outstanding menu makes a meal unforgettable and this restaurant one that you will want to put on your top 10 places to return to again and again.

The menu has an array of freshly prepared entrees and the meal begins with your choice of soup or salad. David's soup was a famous hearty split yellow lentil slowly simmered with carrots, onions and spices and served with oven fresh warm pita bread. My salad was fresh watercress, endive and romaine with generous slices of tomato, cucumbers and olives tossed with crumbled feta cheese and accented with their fabulous house dressing.

Difficult choices have to be made with an assortment of entrees including vegetarian, chicken, beef and lamb. Kabobs of every variety are complimented by savory couscous or rice sides and other vegetables. If you can't decide on a meat entree....they have a Three combination...a palate pleaser offering a variety of well prepared chicken, beef and lamb.

No matter what your choice....you will find the dining at Casablanca to be a dining delight you won't soon forget. Reservations are recommended...which can be made on line or by calling: 414-271-6000. Open 7 days a week for your dining pleasure at lunch and dinner. To quote Bogie... "I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship."

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Come SHOWER the Babies at TMJ 4's Community Baby Shower Friday Jan 13th !

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 07:23:57 -0500

You won't have to play "pin the diaper" or guess the weight, sex, due date...no games at this shower....Just pure enjoyment knowing that you helped to welcome the newest members of the community with your gift of things that they need most. You can go to the grocery store and find a case of formula....the drug store will have an array of pacifiers, rattles, diapers...all things Baby.....Clothing is sooooo cute...tiny sizes dressing up the newest additions to our community. Don't forget blankets...Wisconsin winters show no mercy and these bundles of joy need to be kept warm.

Whatever you choose....know that it will be appreciated by a family in need of some help at this time....Come on in....the giving is easy....you can find drop off locations at these Aurora Health Care locations or Sentry Food Store throughout southeastern Wisconsin. This is an annual event spirited by the local NBC affiliate, WTMJ channel 4.

Your donations will be warmy received at a number of locations throughout the area....click here to see ALL the places that will benefit from your generousity.

We know you have warm hearts in Wisconsin....we see it every day and here is one more way you can be a proud contributor to the families most in need. Come on Baby....You can do it....Make Friday the 13th a LUCKY day for the newest members of our community and show them how very much you care with your donations.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS