Twas the week after closing and all through the house not a creature was.....wait... it is not a mouse... OMG its water in the basement! This is usually follow by a loud shriek coming from the new owner's mouth... yelling "Holy s#X%, call the Realtor!"
Occasionally things, just seem like they go kaput right after a closing? If you have just recently closed on a home this is certainly the worst possible thing to imagine. At this stage nothing is suppose to be wrong. The Buyer feels self-assured with their purchase by having paid for a professional home inspector's advise. The Buyers most likely are still in the midst of settling-in and reorganizing life from the chaos of unpacking. While the Sellers, on the other hand, are relieved to have the selling process over and behind them. They have moved on to another place and may even feel the Buyer got a bargain of a price on their former home. Some Sellers probably still think they should have held out for a higher price!
Today it is commonplace to have the entire house inspected, the well tested, and the septic system thoroughly checked out by licensed contractors. When something breaks down immediately after the Buyers moving in, it's amazing to find out what some might believe. Sometime they think that someone definitely lied, have hid information and/or did know about the problem. From time to time, when this happens, we have seen Buyers reactions range from polite normal questioning to the wild side of high drama and threats of lawsuits. Of course, there will be questions and demands for answers, that is expected. It's not a pleasant moment for anyone when something like this happens. However, there seems to have been a vast shift in attitudes about responsibility ever since independent inspections became commonplace. I think home inspections have caused some unrealistic expectations by the consumers. Just because you had an inspection, does not mean you have a guarantee that things will be absolutely perfect from then on, some stuff might brake down and the when is unknown. Inspection are usually visual not invasive. Therefore there are no guarantees given by the inspector and no home regardless of the price will prove to be flawless. Home inspections are opinions of condition with no guarantees on future conditions. Even newly built homes can have defects like cracks in foundations or poorly sloping grading prior to being landscaped properly that could result in water in the basement. Older resale homes have many more defects, and some go unfortunately undiscovered until later.
So, you ask, "What to do if a home you just purchased has something go immediately wrong?" Calm down, take a deep breath, get the inspector back for another look, diagnose the problem and get bids from at least 2 or 3 contractors to repair the problem. "Who is going to Pay?" Consider buying a home warranty policy prior to closing, or you can negotiate for the seller to provide one as part of your offer. This would be a wise thing to do because this will cover most of things that could possible go wrong. A home owner's warranty covers the furnace, the appliances, and the hot-water heater, and for a small extra premium both the well and septic system could also be insured. At this point, if there is no policy in place, or if the problem is something not covered, you may have to seek legal council to resolve the problem directly with the Seller. Regrettably, it is no longer the Realtors responsibility or job to negotiate these problems after a closing.
Are you searching for homes to buy in Viroqua or Vernon County Wisconsin
call Mary Strang therteam.com RE/MAX Hill Country Realty 608-637-3599
Last night, temperatures plunged below 30 degrees for the first time this season. This morning's landscape was glistening and frosty white. Just a reminder; that if you have an unoccupied cabin or home on the market for sale and it has not yet been winterized because you have not had the time or have not given much thought to your plumbing systems... it is definitely time to drain the pipes. Don't take any more chances, and take action to avoid having your pipes burst. By just follow these few steps to prevent major damage to your property you can prevent some major losses. If you are not sure what to do and are not the DIY type, then hire a plumber to take care of the task. Otherwise, here are a few simple tips to follow to avoid some very unpleasant surprises.
1. Turn off the water supply
2. Open up all the faucets inside and outside. Let all the water run until the system is empty.
3. Put RV anti-freeze into the toilet bowl, sink, tub drains and inside the toilet tanks.
4. Drain the hot water tank, and if you have a private well you should also shut off the circuit breaker to the well pump.
If you cannot turn off a water line, then use electric heating tape and wrap them around any pipe you cannot drain.
Are you searching for homes to buy in Viroqua or Vernon County Wisconsin
call Mary Strang therteam.com RE/MAX Hill Country Realty 608-637-3599
Open House Sunday, 10/12/08 2 P.M. to 3:30 P.M.
Later in the afternoon directly following the open in Westby, Jean Driscoll will host a second open house in Viroqua.
This sunny Ranch Home is neat as a pin. It has two bedroom. a large eat-in kitchen, gas fireplace for cozy winter evenings and cove ceiling in the living room. If you are looking to tread lightly on the earth and want cozy, affordable digs, then come on over and visit this home Sunday. The price is right at only $79000. Move in without delay. Again contact Jean Directly at 608-606-0037 for directions, details and any questions you might have about this home or any of her listings.
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Open House Sunday, 10/12/08 12 Noon to 1:30 P.M. Jean Driscoll will host this open house her cell phone is: 608-606-0037, Contact Her directly for information and any questions about this Historic home in Westby
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I had once had this experience. I listed a farm where the owner, prior to me, had this property listed with another broker. The property consisted of 160 acres and a farmhouse. The prior broker was able to sell the farmhouse with part of the land, approximately 50 acres. Try as the other broker did, the balance of the land did not sell before the expiration of their listing. For whatever reason, the seller didn't want to continue with the former broker and did what many sellers sometimes do, found another broker. It had been approximately 5 months since the first listing expired. This seller wanted his past purchaser to be named in my new listing agreement as an exception. The seller explained in great detail that he has a recorded first right of refusal on the remaining land and he did not want to pay me a commission if this buyer buys.
I found this all sort of amusing and I was able to explain back in great detail that he not only was an exception, he was actually a double exception! Since the last listing only expired 5 months ago, his name would be a protected name for 7 more months with the past broker. Since he had given this buyer a first right of refusal, I could also not sell to another party without a release being signed that could be recorded to fully terminate this prior buyer's rights. What the seller was offering was a listing agreement that had very little potential for any income at all. I explained that he would have to guarantee my fee no matter who purchased the property if I was to take this listing. Furthermore, if his prior buyer with the first right buys within the next 7 months under my listing agreement this seller would sadly have to pay a double commission!
There was a happy ending... the seller understood, he sign the listing, and the property sold to a buyer I found. The prior buyer signed off of the first rights, I got paid and the seller rode off into the sunset happily paying only a single commission.
Are you searching for homes to buy in Viroqua or Vernon County Wisconsin
call Mary Strang therteam.com RE/MAX Hill Country Realty 608-637-3599
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Serving the Viroqua area and Vernon County Coulee Region of Wisconsin. I help my clients buy & sell recreational, investment and relocation property.
My brokerage management experience dates back to 1987 when I entered the realty business as a salesperson in the Chicago metropolitan area. Shortly thereafter, upon moving to Wisconsin, I again earned the salesperson license in Wisconsin and have since developed and maintained a life career in real estate. My 19 years in the realty business includes, Broker-Owner management, experience in sales, and also, trading and tax deferred exchanges (tax code 1031) of residential, land sales, and commercial and investment property. My specialty niche is Vacant Land Sales, for recreational enjoyment, including hunting, fishing, retirement, organic farming, and the like.
My philosophy on serving customers: Create Clients and Customers for life. Get them excited about their real estate transaction and give them unbelievably great service, so great that they will go out and tell their story to friends and family. The success of that philosophy is measured by referrals from those excited Clients and Customers. It has proved to be rewarding, which ensures success for the entire team.
My commitment to clients and the industry have earned me honors as a Realtor and as a Sales Achiever.
1. Membership in the RE/MAX 100% Club since joining RE/MAX in 1997
2. Membership in the Greater LaCrosse Multiple Listing Association
3. Membership in the Wisconsin National Realtors Association
4. Membership in the National Association of Realtors
5. Member of RE/MAX International, and Broker Franchise owner since 1997
6. Membership in REBAC, Real Estate Buyers Agent Council (ABR) designation.
7. CRS-GRI designation
8. Awarded RE/MAX Hall of Fame 2005
9. Awared Platinum Club 2005
10.Member of the Top 100 agent award for all of Wisconsin & Minnesota 2006, 2007
Our Team and company is committed to upholding the Realtors code of ethics, to continuing education and to incorporating new technologies into the workplace. Striving for excellent customer service is nothing unique, it has followed me through my career and I believe that is what sets Myself and "The R Team" apart from the rest of the crowd. Here at RE/MAX Hill Country we don't focus on selling homes and property; we focus on serving people. That is what keeps them coming back again and again, and referring their friends and family to my Associates and myself.
With my thorough understanding of financing, the market place, and rural land issues, you will have the assurance that you will receive the highest return on your investment, be it residential, land or real estate, whether you are buying or selling, call me to find out what I can do for you, that many other real estate agents can't or won't do to help you reach your goal!
My Hobbies and interests include Sports, Swimming, Golf, Bicycling, Gardening, Reading and Computers.
CRS GRI and ABR designations
With my thorough understanding of financing, the market place, and rural land issues, you will have the assurance that you will receive the highest return on your investment, be it residential, land or residential real estate. I can help with your relocation needs, Vacant land purchase and development, or assist in finding that perfect home second home.
Rave Reviews for The R Team: Don't take our word for it!
Hear what our Buyers and Sellers have to say...
Did Mary Succeed With You? Our property was priced right, was advertised and marketed well and was viewed by many prospective buyers. As a result, it sold quickly. We were kept informed every step of the way. Thank you Mary, Tina and office staff.
Brian & Marlene B. Viroqua, WI Closed 7/19/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, finally. It was a hard home to sell, but Mary never gave up - everything you did was very much appreciated!!
John & Shirley C. White Heath, IL Closed 8/6/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary and her team were a solid partner all through the process.
Andy W. Viroqua, WI Closed 8/14/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Thank you. I appreciate her (& her office staff) calling me whenever they had someone interested in my house and showing it with results. Showed personality plus and professional.
Elise O. Westby, WI Closed 9/7/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Mary is an awesome real estate agent! Helpful suggestions for quick sale were explained and supported by Mary and her staff. I couldn't have sold my house this quickly without.
Jeana V. Glendale, AZ Closed 9/7/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Mary did a great job!
Ann S. Glendale, AZ Closed 10/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. The land sold in 3 weeks. Postcards mailings for advertising works great. We will keep your firm in mind when we are ready to sell again. The closing was early, so we could not be there.
William & Diane M. Bristal, WI Closed 10/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes! This is my third real estate transaction with Mary and she is always honest and very sophisticated in her knowledge of the area, the market and property law. I would list with her anytime.
Nancy Milwaukee, WI Closed 11/19/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, yes, yes! All the way through very difficult and frustrating negotiations, she got the job done. Yea! Mary listened to us - spent alot of time showing properties, was always pleasant and businesslike, was always prompt in answering many phone calls. Tina was so nice and helped us out. I would highly recommend this office to anyone.
Anna Mae B. Highland Park, IL Closed 4/27/06
Did Linda Succeed With You? Yes, Linda did succeed in getting us a home in record time! We gave Linda an outline of what we were looking for and what we were NOT (very important to us). She was fast and efficient (we were on a schedule). She and Tina worked very hard to get our closing done when we needed (and we give Tina LOTS of credit here!). We were very, very pleased.
Jeff & Kim L. Viola, WI Closed 4/24/06
Did Linda Succeed With You? Yes, she did a great job. Linda went above and beyond what she should of had to do. She drove us to surrounding towns several times to look at numerous houses, until we finally found one we were happy with and we really appreciate what she has done on finding us a home :)!!
Rick E. Viroqua, WI Closed 5/31/06
Did Jean Succeed with You? Yes-friendly, available, prompt call-backs!
Lisa I-L Viroqua, WI Closed 5/26/2006
Did Linda Succeed with You? We thoroughly enjoyed working with Linda. She was very professional, always available and able to assist us in many ways. We were so pleased we had chosen to go through RE/MAX Hill Country. This was a very positive experience for us and we would recommend this agency to anyone and will certainly return should we look into further real estate interests.
Kevin & Jo S. Viroqua, WI Closed 7/5/2006
Did Jean Succeed with You? Yes, she was very helpful. She was very good about making the whole process go fast and she even gave me advice about where to buy affordable furniture.
Becky M. Westby, WI Closed 7/27/2006
Did Linda Succeed with You? Yes, she was awesome!! Everyone was courteous, extremely helpful and we greatly appreciated Tina & Linda's patience with us and the lender through it all. We will definitely refer RE/MAX Hill Country and Linda to anyone looking to buy property.
Adam & Carrie B. Viroqua, WI Closed 7/11/2006
Did Jean Succeed with You? Yes. So far it has been a pleasant experience working with your company.
Scott & Heidi H. Viroqua, WI Closed 8/4/2006
Did Linda Succeed with You? Linda was a pleasure to deal with. Linda was always friendly and courteous. She was also available and timely with answering any questions we had.
Robert & Rasma B. Soldiers Grove, WI Closed 6/27/2006
Did Mary Succeed with You? Yes. Mary and Tina did a very professional job with our home buying process. We look forward to selling our home with Mary.
Jeff & Stacia B. Hillsbor, WI Closed 11/13/2006
Did Mary Succeed with You? Mary and her staff did an excellent job in helping my husband and myself attain our dream of finding the perfect piece of property for our retirement home. My husband and I have actually worked with Mary over the past 3-4 years. She has always answered our questions promptly and professionally. She has always been very supportive in helping us to attain our retirement dream. Thank you Mary and your team for all your help. You made buying property a positive experience for my husband and myself.
Roger & Kathleen D. Bloomingdale, IL Closed 10/17/2006
Did Linda Succeed with You? Yes-Linda was so helpful and professional. We would recommend Linda to anyone. She was so helpful in providing information and resources. This was very important as we live in Minnesota.
Michael & Katherine P. St. Paul, MN Closed 11/28/2006
Don't take our word for it!
Hear what our Sellers have to say...
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Everyone Did Their Job Well.
Irv S. Soldiers Grove, WI Closed 4/28/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes! Mary did a wonderful job of helping us achieve our goal of making a quick sale at a fair price. Her guidance took the apprehension out of the process. We would certainly recommend her to others. Thanks, Mary!
Joan F. Asbury, IA Closed 4/28/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes - Definitely! Mary was very professional and helpful throughout the entire process. Her response to our needs was always prompt and follow up was excellent. Tina was also very helpful and good to work with.
Kerry & Sharon W. Viola, WI Closed 5/5/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, so far out of three properties for sale, she has sold one & we are hoping to sell the other two this year. RE/MAX Hill Country is pursuing very aggressively with the sale of three properties that are hard to sell. Mary is persistent and optimistic in her approach and she is getting results.
Manuel M. Omaha, NB Closed 5/19/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, very well.
Rozanne R. Lone Rock, WI Closed 6/16/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, much so. This letter is to thank the ladies of RE/MAX Hill Country. We have been working with this agency for a little over a year now. We have had very good results and will have more in the future. They seem to be very professional in the way they take care of not only the Seller, but the Buyers' needs. The sale of our property has created some unusual situations arising during the sale, but these ladies worked them all out. When and if, all the land and home sell and we decide to buy another home, we will go to these ladies to help us as a Buyer and not the Seller.
Jerry & Diane F. Soldiers Grove, WI Closed 6/27/06
Did Jean Succeed With You? Yes. I was kept appraised of everything from the get-go. Jean was very willing to work with my plan and succeeded. My house was sold in 6 days - with about a dozen showings. Everything was coordinated and went off without a hitch for the most part. I've worked with Jean before when I found my Mom's house, so I knew who I was dealing with before I made the decision to list with Jean. I'm satisfied.
Debbi M. La Farge, WI Closed 6/28/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Mary Norris-Strang has performed excellent real estate transactions for us during the last two years. We appreciate her business and will come back to her for more business.
Jong Sool & Lucy C. Schaumburg, IL Closed 7/14/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary is a professional. She kept me informed of progress, went the extra mile and got the job done. Thanks, Mary.
Gene M. St. Croix Falls, WI Closed 7/14/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Very much so. This was the 3rd sale Mary & her staff did for us. They did a very good job, as they have in the past. Go Team!
Jerry & Diane F. Soldiers Grove, WI Closed 8/25/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, very much so. Great, always there, good feedback, ample information and stayed on top of everything. I would recommend Mary to anyone I know. Thanks for a job well done!
Pete L. El Granada, CA Closed 10/12/06
Did Jean Succeed With You? Yes! Jean did an excellent Job in assisting us in buying our first home and then selling it three years later. She helped make our transitions very comfortable and made sure we were always aware of everything going on. Overall, we were very happy with the Viroqua RE/MAX Office and would always recommend them to anyone.
Mike & Marissa P. Madison, WI Closed 10/31/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, very professional in all aspects related to our specific real estate sale. Fine job, didn't think it could be any better than what you had professionally done. Thank you RE/MAX staff.
Doug & Susan B. La Farge, WI Closed 4/28/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Mary was easy to deal with and knows her business well. Everyone in the office was friendly and service oriented. I enjoyed doing business with you. Thanks, Tina!
Deborah E. Oostburg, WI Closed 11/28/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, she was knowledgeable and very helpful. I had a good and profitable experience with this transaction. We will probably do more business in the future. Thanks for your service, etc.
Bob C. Hillsboro, WI Closed 12/13/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, very much so - she truely cares about you as a person. Sometimes life throws you a curve ball and you don't want to deal with it. Mary was always there when I needed her to listen and she is very much a professional. I have nothing but praise for her.
Laurie A. Westby, WI Closed 12/7/06
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary has doen all we have expected from her and more.
Bill H. Viroqua, WI Closed 1/18/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary and her staff have sold three properties for me. They kep me well informed from start to finish, making the process easy. Thanks.
Ron R. Boscobel, WI Closed 1/18/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes, she was thorough, professional and nice. Good job everyone, Thank you.
Conrad B. Alamo, TX Closed 1/31/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Absolutely. We feel that Mary really takes the time to share what is special about each listing, both in person and online. Thanks, Mary!!
Todd & Denise M. Chicago, IL Closed 2/28/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? YES, even with the real estate "slump" going on. Thanks to all. Mary pushed hard and showed the house a lot - more showings than usual. Pictures on the websites were great. We are satisfied. She did her best and gave us good advice.
Allen & Jean S. Westby, WI Closed 3/23/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Very much so! Mary and Tina were very good at keeping us informed. We felt Mary was exceptional at her job and give her a 5 star recommendation. Great job, Mary - You are very much appreciated!
John & Mary Ann W. Manteno, IL Closed 3/5/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes! Mary and her team are top notch professionals that went above and beyond what is expected in their hard work to sell my property, despite difficult situations. Every phone call was returned promptly, every question was answered honestly and ethically. If you are looking for results instead of excuses, they are the "only game in town!" Thanks, Mary.
Diana G. Elkhorn, WI Closed 2/28/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary was very helpful and knowledgeable. They did a fantastic job. We sold our house much quicker than we thought and the whole process was swift.
Bill & Sherri W. Coon Valley, WI Closed 4/27/07
Did Mary Succeed With You? Yes. Mary is a very caring person. Everyone involved was great. They care about the person, not only the selling or buying of the house. Thanks for keeping me so well informed.
Laurie A. Westby, WI Closed 6/8/07
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A grand home with all the charm of yesteryear with modern updates! Just viewing the architecture of this beautiful Victorian home with the two levels of wrap around porches surrounded by mature trees and beautiful gardens is like looking at a perfect picture postcard. The setting lends itself the peaceful gardening and birding on this double city lot. What makes this special is that it can also be a busy family yard with lots of room for family football games or campfires. Located almost in the center of Westby but away from traffic noises makes it within walking distance to schools, churches, the library, shopping, parks, the pool during the summer or even a treat at Ole & Lena's! 
