Husky Homes Blog - Homeownership


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…

83 Views, 0 Comments

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…

174 Views, 0 Comments


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

165 Views, 0 Comments

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…

79 Views, 0 Comments

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…

68 Views, 0 Comments

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…

50 Views, 0 Comments

We ALL start somewhere! 

Renting is often the first chapter in the journey to finding a place to call home. It’s not just a temporary situation; it’s a valuable opportunity to discover what you truly want in a living space. Renting allows you to explore different neighborhoods, test your lifestyle preferences, and save for future investments.

However, the reality in Madison is that rent is on the rise. The average rent has now reached $1,685, reflecting a 4.8% year-over-year increase (sourced from the National Apartment Association). With projections indicating that Madison will welcome over 100,000 new residents by 2050, resulting in a 37% population increase, it’s essential to recognize that rental prices are likely to continue climbing.

72 Views, 0 Comments

Not every renovation you make in your home will guarantee a return on investment, and very few offer a 100% return.

Things that do NOT significantly increase home value:

-Accent walls,

-Replacing light switches/outlets

-Small repairs

-Adding ceiling fans

-Changing fixtures.


Things that CAN increase home value:

-New windows

-New flooring

-Fresh paint

-Landscaping!


As someone who has personally remodeled a home, has a husband who does some general contracting, and assisted with countless client renovations, I can tell you firsthand what will add value and what doesn't. Remember, your home is primarily a space for you and your family to create memories and find happiness. While it is an investment, let's not lose sight…

84 Views, 0 Comments

The real estate market has seen a surprising shift in recent years, with younger generations, particularly Gen Z, entering the homeownership race. While this might seem daunting for seasoned buyers, it's essential to understand the driving forces behind this trend and how it impacts the market as a whole.

WHY GEN Z IS BUYING HOMES?

Several factors are contributing to the surge in Gen Z homeownership:

  • Financial Responsibility: This generation has grown up amid economic instability and has learned the value of saving. Many are prioritizing homeownership as a long-term investment.
  • Desire for Stability: After years of renting and facing rising costs, many young people are seeking the stability and security that homeownership offers.
  • Low…

103 Views, 0 Comments


If you've been waiting for interest rates to drop to below 3%, this one's for you.

Listen, SOME DAY the rates will most likely go down. Maybe not to 3% but maybe (hopefully) back to 5-5.5% again.

But until that day comes, here's the bottom line: the rates are either going to remain the same or they're going to go up.

If you're trying to time the market, you're likely wasting your time.

According to Keeping Current Matters, "Mortgage rates are impacted by a lot of factors: geo-political uncertainty, inflation and the economy, and more. That’s why it’s generally not worth it to try to time the market. There’s too much at play that you can’t control. The best thing you can do is control the controllables."

What can you control?

Where…

186 Views, 0 Comments