Husky Homes Blog - Laura Parman's Blog

When you're on the hunt for your dream home, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfection. But what if I told you that the perfect home might not check every single box? Enter the 80/10/10 Rule!

What's the 80/10/10 Rule?

  • 80% of the home is exactly what you love. The layout, the natural light, the charming front porch — it’s got your heart.

  • 10% of the home has little things you can change. Think paint colors, light fixtures, or swapping out that shag carpet for hardwood floors.

  • 10% of the home may not be ideal, but it’s something you can live with. Maybe the laundry room isn’t on your dream floor or the guest bathroom is a bit cozier than you'd hoped.

Why This Rule Works

No house is perfect, but…

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When you're house hunting, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to buy a fixer-upper or a move-in ready home. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice really depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

The Fixer-Upper: Sweat Equity + Big Potential

A fixer-upper can be a great option if you're looking to get more house for your money or want to customize your space. These homes often come with a lower price tag, giving buyers the chance to invest in renovations and potentially build equity quickly.

Pros:

  • Lower purchase price

  • Potential for higher return on investment

  • Opportunity to design your dream home

Cons:

  • Renovation costs can add up quickly

  • …

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House hunting near Madison during the winter months has its own charm. Snow-covered streets, cozy neighborhoods, and warm interiors all add to the excitement of finding your dream home. But let’s be honest – a house-hunting adventure isn’t complete without a good cup of coffee to keep you energized and warm along the way. Luckily, Madison boasts an incredible coffee scene, perfect for taking a break, reflecting on your options, or planning your next move. Here are some of the best coffee shops to visit while house hunting.

1. Colectivo Coffee – On the Square

Located just steps from the Capitol, Colectivo Coffee offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of seating and large windows to people-watch. Their handcrafted coffee and scratch-made pastries…

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The new year is a time for fresh starts, and for many people, that includes making big life changes. If you’ve been dreaming about moving—whether it’s upgrading to your dream home, downsizing, or relocating to a new neighborhood—there’s no better time to turn those dreams into actionable goals than right now.

Here’s how to use the new year as the perfect springboard for planning your move:

1. Reflect on Your Current Living Situation

Take a moment to evaluate your current home. Is it meeting your needs? Do you find yourself wishing for more space, better amenities, or a shorter commute? Maybe it’s time to consider a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle better.

2. Set Clear and Realistic Moving Goals

Just like any other new year’s…

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As the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins, there’s something magical about the fresh start it brings. As a mom, a friend, a professional, and simply a person trying to navigate this beautiful chaos called life, I’ve learned that setting goals isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. Whether you're balancing family, friendships, a career, or personal wellness, here’s how we can start the year off strong together.

1. Personal Growth

The best way to pour into others is to first fill your own cup. Set aside time for your personal passions, hobbies, and growth.

For me, this means reading a book I’ve been putting off, journaling for clarity, and simply taking a few minutes each day to breathe and reflect. Growth doesn’t have to be…

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Winter break is almost here, and while the kids may be thrilled to escape their school routines, moms know the challenge of keeping them entertained for two weeks straight. Whether you’re dealing with subzero temperatures or just looking for ways to keep the boredom at bay, here’s a handy guide to make this winter break a fun and memorable one for your family in Madison!

1. Explore Madison’s Indoor Hot Spots

  • Madison Children’s Museum: Let your kids’ imaginations run wild with hands-on exhibits and creative play areas.
  • Urban Air Trampoline Park: A perfect spot to burn off energy when it’s too cold to play outside.
  • Ultrazone Laser Tag: Great for older kids looking for action-packed fun.
  • Dane County Libraries: Many libraries host winter…

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Is It Time to Upsize? Knowing When Your Family Needs a Bigger Home

Moving to a bigger home can be a big decision, filled with excitement and maybe a little uncertainty. For many families, the choice to upsize often comes after feeling squeezed in the current space or realizing that their needs have evolved. Here’s how to know if your family is ready for that next move.

1. Your Family Is Growing

One of the clearest indicators that it’s time to consider a bigger home is when your family is expanding. Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, combining households, or hosting relatives more often, it might be time to look for a home that comfortably accommodates everyone.

2. Your Kids Need More Room to Grow

Kids grow up quickly, and so do their…

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As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, it’s time to embrace one of the season’s most beloved traditions—visiting a pumpkin patch! Whether you’re a long-time Madison resident or considering making this vibrant city your home, the local pumpkin patches offer a perfect way to enjoy the fall with family and friends. Not only are these outings fun, but they also allow you to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Madison. Here are some must-visit pumpkin patches around town!


1. Eugster’s Farm Market & Petting Farm

Located just a short drive from Madison in Stoughton, Eugster’s is a family-friendly destination that offers much more than just pumpkins. Pick the perfect pumpkin while enjoying hayrides, a corn maze, and their popular…

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As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, fall brings a unique opportunity for homebuyers. While spring and summer are often seen as peak seasons for real estate, fall offers distinct advantages that can make it an ideal time to purchase your dream home. Here are some top tips for making the most of your fall home-buying journey.

Less Competition, More Choices: In spring and summer, the housing market is often flooded with buyers, leading to bidding wars and inflated prices. By the time fall rolls around, many buyers have settled into their new homes, leaving the market less crowded. This decrease in competition means you can take your time to explore options without the pressure to make an immediate offer. With fewer buyers, sellers…

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As a mom and a realtor, I know that the transition from summer fun to the structured routine of a new school year can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re juggling the demands of work, school supplies shopping, or simply trying to keep everyone organized, the start of the school year is a hectic time. Here are some tips to prepare your home and family for a smooth back-to-school season.

1. Create a Command Center

Having a central place where everyone can keep track of schedules, to-dos, and important papers is a lifesaver. Consider setting up a command center near the kitchen or in another high-traffic area. Include a calendar, whiteboard, and storage for school forms, permission slips, and other documents. This way, everyone in the…

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