Husky Homes Blog - Homeownership

Building Wealth, One Home at a Time: Why I Support “Own It”

In every real estate transaction, I have the privilege of helping clients find or sell their homes. But beyond closing deals, I believe in contributing to a more equitable housing landscape. That's why I donate a portion of every single commission check to Own It: Building Black Wealth, a Madison-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing homeownership opportunities for Black and brown families. 

Own It addresses the stark racial disparities in homeownership—only 13% of Black households in Dane County own their homes compared to 64% of white households. Through comprehensive financial education and $19,000 down payment grants (which do not require repayment), Own It empowers first-time homebuyers to overcome systemic barriers and build generational…

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House Hunting Strategies

House Hunting Strategies

I'm Implementing as a Madison Area Agent who wants My Clients to actually LOVE the Process

Because nothing gives you buyer's remorse more than having felt rushed + hating the process every step of the way.

1. GETTING CLEAR ON YOUR Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

I’m helping you prioritize what truly matters (like location & layout), so you don’t get distracted by pretty countertops or decor in a house that doesn’t *actually* work for you.

2. LOOKING AT POTENTIAL, NOT JUST THE PHOTOS

Some of the best homes don’t look amazing online, but in person? Total gems. I’ll make sure we don’t overlook a hidden winner, and I'll make sure we don't pass over a house that's bursting with potential under all the dated…

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Rejection is Redirection

Spring has sprung and with it, the real estate market is heating up. Open houses are buzzing, listings are moving quickly, and competition is fierce. For buyers, this season can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. One moment you're in love with a home, and the next it's under contract with someone else. It’s easy to get discouraged.

But here’s a mindset shift that can change everything: Rejection is not the end. It’s redirection.

Whether you’ve lost out on a multiple-offer situation or a dream home turned out to be less dreamy in person, these moments are not failures they’re pivots toward the right fit for you. Success in this fast-paced season isn’t just about finding a house it’s about setting realistic expectations and staying adaptable along…

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The Exclusive Strategy for Finding ‘The One’

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions a person can make, and in today’s fast-moving market, the perfect property can disappear before buyers even have the chance to step inside. Homes in high-demand areas often receive multiple offers within days, or even hours, of hitting the market, leaving many buyers feeling frustrated and discouraged. But what if you could get access to a home before it ever went public? That’s where Private Exclusives powered by Compass make all the difference, giving buyers exclusive access to off-market homes before they hit the public market.

For my clients, Riley and Santanna, this approach changed everything.

A Change in Plans

When Riley and Santanna first started considering homeownership, they weren't sure if…

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Our Clients and the Homes They Fell For

Our clients don't just buy when rates are low or because it's their first home. They are a variety of reasons - rational and emotional - that people move, and here are some of the stories of our clients purchases in 2024.

Kris and Ashley have relocated plenty of times for Kris's military career. We sold their home in Cambria (Columbia County) in 2021 when they moved out to New York. They moved back to Wisconsin in 2023 and settled in Lake Mills where they fell in love with the community, school district and recreation. They have a boat and love to go out on Rock Lake, so having a place to park the boat and lake access was important to them. When this home came on the market in the chill of January last year, it was in the perfect…

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If I wanted to list MY house by MARCH, here's what I would do...

If I wanted to list my house by MARCH, here’s what I would do...

1. CREATE MY PERSONALIZED PLAN

I would figure out my home’s market value and get clear on how much equity I have on my home. Then I would reach out to my lender so I know the budget for my next home. If I’m comfortable with all those numbers and the kind of home I can afford to purchase, I move onto step number 2.

ESTIMATED TIME: 1 WEEK

2. PREP MY HOME FOR THE MARKET

I have to look at my home through the eyes of potential buyers and recognize that while my home has been great for me, it probably needs some repairs or updating before I put a For Sale sign in my yard. Thankfully I have a checklist to refer to so I don’t miss a thing. I declutter, pre-pack, paint, and stage…

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Gen Z 70's

As a new generation steps into homeownership, they’re bringing an innovative, fearless approach to interior design. Gen Z is transforming the landscape of home decor and renovation with projects that celebrate individuality, creativity, and sustainability. Inspired by retro styles, especially the bold architectural and design choices of the 1970s, Gen Z is turning their homes into spaces that are vibrant, personal, and multifunctional.

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all interiors. Instead, this generation is reimagining their spaces with arches, playful textures, bold patterns, and a dash of nostalgia. Let’s dive into the details of how Gen Z is setting themselves apart and leading a revolution in home design.

 Bringing Back the Arch

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Solveig's Madison Area Holiday Guide

There is so much to do around Madison during the holiday season, but let’s be honest: sometimes it’s nice just staying home.

This holiday season I’m channeling my inner homebody and encouraging you to do the same! I believe there is a way to support local and indulge in the festivities our town has to offer and still be home, be cozy, and remember what really matters this time of year: you and yours.

So grab your fave blanket, light a festive candle, and sit on the couch as you embrace your inner homebody this holiday season. Stay tuned to the Husky Homes blog and follow me on Instagram @theonetheonlysolveig for my go-to Madison area holiday guide. What's to come?

LATER THIS MONTH:

• The shop local GIFT guide

• LOCAL EVENTS WITH…

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Navigate Madison’s Market like a Marathoner!

Hi, my name is Iris Chavarria! Not only am I a proud Husky Homes agent, but I’m also a runner, currently training for the Madison Marathon. I often get asked, “What do you think about while running for so long?” The answer… real estate.

Just like training for a marathon, navigating Madison’s real estate market takes planning, stamina, and a well-paced strategy. As we head into November, this season’s market comes with unique hurdles, but with the right preparation, you can reach your home-buying goals successfully. Here’s a look at how you can stay on track, mile by mile.

1. Start Strong: Kick-Off with a Market Overview

Just like setting your route for a marathon, it’s crucial to understand Madison’s current market conditions. November brings a…

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Your Guide to a Cozy Winter: Home Prep Made Simple

The leaves are turning, the air's getting crisp, and Thanksgiving's almost here! Like it or not, winter's on its way. So, here's a quick checklist to help homeowners get their homes ready for the chill and stay comfy all season long.

1. Gutter Check: Clear out leaves so you don't get water problems.
2. Draft Busting: Seal up windows and doors to keep the cold out.
3. Heat Tune-Up: Get your furnace checked to keep things cozy.
4. Chimney Sweep: Clean it out for safe, warm fires.
5. Fan Flip: Switch ceiling fans to clockwise to spread the warmth.
6. Detector Check: Make sure smoke and CO alarms are good to go.
7. Hose Stash: Drain and store hoses so they don't freeze.
8. Faucet Prep: Turn off outdoor faucets and insulate them.
9. Tree Trim: Cut back…

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