Archive of 2009 Itemshttp://www.wra.org/rss/2009Archiveen-usWRARSS Toolwebmaster@wra.orgBarrett Announces Candidacy for Governorhttp://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/70147807.htmlMilwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett on Sunday formally announced that he is running for governor in 2010.Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CSThttp://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/70147807.htmlWRA Launches Member Surveyhttp://www.wra.orgThe WRA released a member survey on Friday, November 13 to gather opinions that will help shape the future of the WRA. Members can find the survey in their e-mail inboxes.Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CSThttp://www.wra.orgNAR Launches Web Site for Homeownershttp://www.houselogic.comThe National Association of REALTORS® has launched a Web site designed specifically for homeowners with helpful tips and resources for maintaining and improving your home, as well as making the right financial decisions.Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:43:42 CSThttp://www.houselogic.comExisting Home Sales in Wisconsin up 5.8%http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr1110_hsgstats.htmlThird quarter housing statistics are in and existing home sales in Wisconsin are up 5.8 percent over the same quarter last year.Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:14:31 CSThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr1110_hsgstats.htmlPresident Obama Signs Tax Credit Billhttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_creditPresident Obama has signed The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 into law today. The law extends the present $8,000 tax credit through April 30, 2010 and expands it to include a $6,500 credit to current homeowners, provided they have lived in the home they are selling, or have sold, as the principal residence for five consecutive years during the past eight years.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:54:30 CSThttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_creditPresident Obama Signs Tax Credit Billhttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_creditPresident Obama has signed The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 into law today. The law extends the present $8,000 tax credit through April 30, 2010 and expands it to include a $6,500 credit to current homeowners, provided they have lived in the home they are selling, or have sold, as the principal residence for five consecutive years during the past eight years.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:53:33 CSThttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_creditPresident Obama Signs Tax Credit Billhttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_creditPresident Obama has signed The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 into law today. The law extends the present $8,000 tax credit through April 30, 2010 and expands it to include a $6,500 credit to current homeowners, provided they have lived in the home they are selling, or have sold, as the principal residence for five consecutive years during the past eight years.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:04:00 CSThttp://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_credit Congress Passes Home Buyer Tax Credit Extensionhttp://www.wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.htmlBoth Houses have passed the Home Buyer Tax Credit extension and President Obama is expected to sign the bill today. Get details and FAQs here.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:58:01 CSThttp:/www./wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.html Congress Passes Home Buyer Tax Credit Extensionhttp://www.wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.htmlBoth Houses have passed the Home Buyer Tax Credit extension and President Obama is expected to sign the bill today. Get details and FAQs here.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:58:01 CSThttp:/www./wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.html Congress Passes Home Buyer Tax Credit Extensionhttp://www.wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.htmlBoth Houses have passed the Home Buyer Tax Credit extension and President Obama is expected to sign the bill today. Get details and FAQs here.Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:58:01 CSThttp:/www./wra.org/video/tax_credit_extension/tax_credit_extension.htmlThree Wisconsin Students Start Real Estate Websitehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlA trio of Wisconsin college students recently launched www.homejotter.com, a Web site designed to help college students find off-campus housing. The site was started in Eau ClaireThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:58:33 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlApartment Recycling Ordinance Isn't Enforcedhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlIn Racine, Wis., a city ordinance requires apartment communities to provide recycling containers for their residents. To date, though, there has been little to noThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:57:22 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlThird-Quarter Housing Sales Show Mild Gainhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlIn Wisconsin, Racine County's home sales rose nearly 2.9 percent during the third quarter compared to the same three-month period a year earlier.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:56:20 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlLawmaker Proposes Mediation Before Foreclosurehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlA new bill proposed by Sen. Lena Taylor of Milwaukee would require mediation before a foreclosure process in the state of Wisconsin. Eric Peterson, Taylor's chief ofThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:55:02 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlHome Buyers' Tax Credit Ends [Nov. 30], But Rushing Into a Purchase Could Be Riskyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlQualified first-time home buyers have until the end of November to cash in on a federal tax credit worth up to $8,000 on home purchases made this year.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:53:57 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlREALTORS Are a Little Older, Making a Little Lesshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlThe National Association of REALTORS 2009 Membership Profile shows that the typical REALTOR is a white female aged 54 years old with a college education and 10Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:52:36 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlDemocrats May Extend Tax Credit for Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlThe Obama administration is working with Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill to possibly extend the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers that expires at theThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:51:27 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.html4 Ways Real Estate Professionals Can Use Zillow.comhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlReal estate agents would be wise to take advantage of the vast reach of Zillow.com, given that the site draws over 8 million users per month. They can benefit byThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:50:12 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlFirms Get a Hand With Twitter, Facebookhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlA number of small business owners, unable to keep up with all of the marketing opportunities available via social media, are outsourcing online functions toThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:49:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlThe Confident Rookie Series: Admit You're New & What to Say When You Don't Know the Answerhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlRookie real estate practitioners preparing to negotiate their first deal often present themselves as more experienced for fear that the opposing agent will takeThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:47:52 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlStrategies: Can You Answer the Question, 'What Do You Do?'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlFor salespeople, honing one's "elevator pitch" -- so named because it might be delivered to a prospective customer encountered during the short span of anThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:46:28 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlLocal REALTORS Turning to Online Sites for Networking Opportunitieshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlJon Coile, president and CEO of Champion Realty Inc., says the real estate industry has just begun learning how to leverage social networking sites.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:45:17 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlHow Real Estate Agents Can Use Bonuses and Incentives to Get More Clients and Sell More Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlRather than offer commission discounts or rebates to generate new business, real estate expert Rob Minton encourages agents to take a cue from infomercials andThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:44:13 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlHandling the Referrals You Receivehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlWhen real estate agents receive referrals, they should immediately thank the referral source orally and then follow-up with a written note of appreciation.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:42:40 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_16.htmlState Street Development Will Honor Corinne Owenshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlRacine Mayor John Dickert has announced that local civil rights activist Corinne Owens will have her place in history on State Street. It has been decreed thatThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:32:53 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlGeneva's Plan Going to Countyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlTown officials in Lake Geneva, Wis., want to see more condominiums, hotels, water parks and golf courses, as evidenced by the recently adopted 2035 SmartThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:31:50 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlRush for $8000: First Time Homeowner Tax Credit Expires in 2 Monthshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlThe federal housing tax credit expires Nov. 30, and first-time homebuyers are scrambling in some markets to get deals in place before then. RealtorsThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:30:18 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlMilwaukee-Based We Energies Predicts Lower Winter Heating Bills for Fox Valley, Southeastern Wisconsin Residentshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlIn Wisconsin, Fox Valley residents can expect to see lower heating bills this winter. Milwaukee-based We Energies calculates that its customers can expect aThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:29:12 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlProgram Helps First-Timer Homeowners in Buying Foreclosed Houseshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlA new program run through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority is making foreclosed homes available to first-time homebuyers.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:28:13 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlHome Prices Down 30 Percenthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlColdwell Banker has released its annual survey on the price of a 2,200-square-foot home with four bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an attached garage -- a "move-Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:26:54 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlHousing Construction Rises in Augusthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlThe Commerce Department reports a 0.8 percent increase in construction spending in August following a revised decline of 1.1 percent the prior month.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:25:50 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.html6 Steps to Generating Free Leads on Craigslisthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlThere are several things real estate professionals can do to generate quality leads using Craigslist. After creating an account, they should determine whetherThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:23:57 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlVirtual Staging Brings Empty Homes to Lifehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlGiven that it can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000 to professionally stage a home, more real estate professionals are looking atThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:22:50 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlHow Real Estate Agents Can Get Richhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlReal estate agents often work up to 60 hours a week, put in hours on weekends and holidays and forego vacations to close a deal. However, most do notThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:21:40 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlAn Hour a Day -- Keeps Customers Coming Your Way!http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlCiting a National Association of REALTORS survey indicating that over 80 percent of sellers do not list their home with the agent who helped them to buy it,Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:20:24 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlPerk Up a Sale After a Life in One Househttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlProperty agents with the National Association of REALTORS' Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation, along with senior moving services, can be a big help toThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:18:54 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlApplications Make Twitter a More Powerful Toolhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlScores of applications have been rolled out to help Twitter's more than 20 million users maximize the potential of the social networking tool. With applicationsThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:17:37 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlStudy: Paperless 'Comes of Age'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlA study of more than 1,700 real estate brokers and agents from 22 Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) by WAV Group Inc. indicates that more residentialThu, 22 Oct 2009 21:16:03 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_09.htmlRiverside a Work in Progresshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlIn Wausau, Wis., local leaders say continued development in the riverfront area north of downtown is moving in the right direction. The goal is for the blightedThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:57:03 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlChange the Way Local Governments Are Fundedhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlMike Ruzicka, president of the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS (GMAR), writes that the budgets of both Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett andThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:54:07 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlHousing Crisis Might Affect Crime Rateshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe housing market in southern Wisconsin looks to be on the road to recovery. However, many developers and owners are still having to pull out all stops just toThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:52:38 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlTours of Green, Renewable Homes Coming This Weekendhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe Midwest Renewable Energy Association is set to sponsor its annual Wisconsin Solar Tour this weekend, which will spotlight homes and businesses that areThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:51:32 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlCensus Defines Eau Claire Countyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe results of a recent Census Bureau study reaffirmed certain assumptions about living in Wisconsin's Eau Claire County. Median wages in the county lagThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:50:23 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlHomeowners Try to Save Their Dreamshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlNeighborhood Assistance Corp. of America (NACA), a nonprofit based in Massachusetts, has attracted over 180,000 struggling homeowners toThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:49:04 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlHome Prices Rose in Most Major Cities in Julyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller home price index of 20 major cities rose 1.2 percent in July. Residential property prices still are down 13.3 percent from theThu, 22 Oct 2009 20:47:50 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlWeb Marketing Latest Trend in Real Estatehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe Internet has dramatically changed the way REALTORS conduct business, as more and more buyers begin home searches online and have access toThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:18:01 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlPortland REALTOR Turns to Bike Saleshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlPortland, Ore.-based real estate broker Kirsten Kaufman is known as the "Bike REALTOR," gearing her marketing toward people interested in neighborhoodsThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:16:48 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe Web Your Way: 7 Real Estate Toolshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlReal estate professionals have access to several Web-based tools to improve efficiency, such as Hyperwords, a free Firefox add-on that lets users highlightThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:15:16 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlKnoxville REALTORS Use Tweets, Status Updates to Sell Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlKnoxville, Tenn.-based Slyman Real Estate is among the many U.S. residential property brokerages turning to social media outlets to help them sell homes.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 19:14:04 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlHow Real Estate Agents Can Take Their Business From Local to Nationalhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlReal estate agents working in small markets, where it is difficult to generate leads, should consider taking their business national by marketing in USA TodayThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:12:51 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe Confident Rookie Series: Let Your Seller Prospect Talk & Get Comfy With Your Commissionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlRookie real estate agents generally are nervous about their first listing appointment, but there are some measures they can take to make it a goodThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:11:31 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlMoney for Tough Timeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlThe U.S. Small Business Administration has clarified that individual real estate practitioners and brokers are eligible for the agency's loans, which should beThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:08:06 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/October/2009_10_02.htmlLandlords Could See More Regulation in Near Futurehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlIn Wisconsin, Madison apartment owners could face heftier fines for violating certain ordinances if amendments being considered by the city's Landlord andThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:57:09 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlAssessments Unlikely to Change Property Taxes for Brown County Homeownershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlDespite the fact that home values have dropped substantially in parts of the United States, Wisconsin's Brown County has generally seen only modestThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:54:17 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlCongress Asked to Continue First-Time Home Buyer Credithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlAccording to IRS estimates, approximately 1.4 million first-time home buyers have taken advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit. With the program set toThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:52:47 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlKnow Your Madisonian: Bill Malkasianhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlBill Malkasian, who has led the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association for more than three decades, keeps a close watch on the changing residential property market.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:51:29 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlFlor Named Chairman for WRAhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlJohn Flor, managing broker of Six Lakes Realty in Chetek, officially takes the reins of the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association on Oct. 1. As chairman, he willThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:50:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlU.S. Builder Confidence Rises to Highest Level Since May 2008http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlOffering more evidence that the home building sector has bottomed out and is beginning to recover, industry sentiment improved in September for the third month in a row.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:48:21 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlHousing: Short Sales Spread Across Real Estate Market, Leaving Frustration in Their Wakehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlShort sales, in which a residential property is sold for less than the outstanding mortgage balance, have emerged as a popular option among strugglingThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:46:59 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlA Picture Is Worth 1,000 Wordshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlReal estate professionals agree that it is important these days to showcase listings on the Internet, as most buyers already have searched the Web forThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:45:55 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlHow to Use E-Mail to Increase Sales and Reduce Competitionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlReal estate and other professionals who use e-mail marketing wisely will communicate one-on-one with prospects and foster long-term relationships.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:44:47 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.html5-Point Checklist for Natural Search Engine Rankingshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlThere are several steps that real estate agents can take to improve their Web site rankings in online search engines, and experts say the process begins with a foundation featuring core elementsThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:42:12 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlOwners Clean Up Their Act When Sellinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlHomeowners interested in putting their properties on the market now that summer is coming to a close would be wise to organize and declutter their belongings.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:18:25 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlStudy Backs Up Calls to Extend Homebuyer Tax Credithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlA study released by Campbell Surveys says 357,000 home sales occurred between Feb. 17 and Sept. 15 as a direct result of the $8,000 federal tax credit for first-time buyers,Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:17:16 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlIf REALTOR® Is a Problem, There's a Way to Address Ithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlThe legally binding relationship between realty agent and client sometimes can turn ugly during a process where emotions often run high.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:12:55 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlMany REALTORS® Go Without Health Insurancehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlWhile health insurance clearly is an issue for many people who are not employed, real estate agents represent one group of workers that struggles to get coverage.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:23:58 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_25.htmlMSNBC: Oshkosh Out of Recessionhttp://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33312701/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/sp-dt%20on% 20msnbc.comNational news outlet MSNBC reported the Oshkosh-Neenah metropolitan area has emerged from the recession and entered a recovery phase.Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:10:28 CDThttp://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33312701/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/sp-dt%20on% 20msnbc.comHealth Reform Clears Major Hurdlehttp://www.realtor.org/small_business_health_coverage.nsf/pages/small_business_health_coverage?opendocument&wt.mc_id=rd0043The Senate Finance Committee yesterday approved a relatively moderate health care bill that will reform insurance underwriting and pricing practices as well as extend insurance to an estimated 29 million Americans …Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:57:19 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/small_business_health_coverage.nsf/pages/small_business_health_coverage?opendocument&wt.mc_id=rd0043More First-time Home Buyers in Markethttp://www.wra.org/pdf/State_by_State_Wisconsin_taxcredit_100709.pdfTwo NAR surveys indicate a 6 percent to 6.5 percent increase in the share of first-time home buyers in the market when the six months following the tax credit enactment is compared with the six months prior.Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:06:17 CDThttp://www.wra.org/pdf/State_by_State_Wisconsin_100709_taxcredit.pdfDRLink Partner September Edition Availablehttp://drl.wi.gov/dept/Sept09.pdfThe Department of Regulation and Licensing's September issue of DRLink Partner is available hereWed, 30 Sep 2009 16:11:47 CDThttp://drl.wi.gov/dept/Sept09.pdfWRA Launches Facebook Tax Credit Videoshttp://wra.org/video/taxcreditspots_2009/2009taxcreditspots.htmlThe WRA has launched three online video commercials to promote the $8,000 homebuyer’s tax credit in the final days of the program. REALTORS® are encouraged to embed these videos into their websites or on their social media pages.Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:20:51 CDThttp://wra.org/video/taxcreditspots_2009/2009taxcreditspots.htmlSeptember President's Update for AEs and GADshttp://www.realtor.org/about_nar/presidents_report/_podcast_archive/mcmillan_AE_GAD_Update_20090925NAR President Charles McMillan discusses NAR efforts to extend the home buyer tax credit, improve the Home Valuation Code of Conduct appraisal rules, ensure the safety and soundness of FHA.Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:24:01 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/about_nar/presidents_report/_podcast_archive/mcmillan_AE_GAD_Update_20090925REALTORS® Core Health Insurance Programhttp://www.realtor.org/realtor_benefits/benefits_partners/core_health_insuranceNAR is pleased to introduce REALTORS® Core Health Insurance (RCHI). RCHI offers affordable, guaranteed-acceptance, Limited Medical insurance plans exclusively for NAR members aged 18-65.Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:17:07 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/realtor_benefits/benefits_partners/core_health_insuranceTell Congress to Extend Homebuyer Tax Credithttp://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/campaign/hbtc?rk=U1LoIA1al5 hHECheck your e-mail for NAR's Call for Action telling Congress to extend and expand the Homebuyer Tax Credit. Or, click here:Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:17:36 CDThttp://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/campaign/hbtc?rk=U1LoIA1al5hHEIt's Not Too Late to Set Sailhttp://www.realtor.org/convention.nsf/Chart a winning course and set sail at NAR's REALTORS Conference & Expo, November 13-16, 2009 at the San Diego Convention Center. It's not too late to register for this exciting event!Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:58:20 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/convention.nsf/WRA Welcomes Chairman John Florhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlThe Wisconsin REALTORS Association (WRA) has announced the installation of its new chairman, John Flor. Succeeding immediate past Chairman Michael Mulleady of Coldwell Banker Mulleady in Minocqua, Flor assumes responsibility for the 2009-2010 fiscal year, beginning October 1, 2009.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:14:48 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlWal-Mart Renovating Wisconsin Storeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlWal-Mart is in the process of renovating 14 stores in Wisconsin to feature the retail giant's "next generation of store design." Among the stores receiving the facelifts are locations inWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:57:41 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlStrict Standards Proposed to Reduce Foreclosureshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlA task force formed to study home foreclosures in Wisconsin is recommending real estate appraisers be required to get licensed in Wisconsin and mortgage brokers face tougher standards.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:57:05 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlHome Sales Up Last 3 Months in SE Wisconsinhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlHome sales have increased for the third straight month in southeast Wisconsin. The Multiple Listing Service reports more than 1,500 homes were sold inWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:56:06 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlSigns of Improving Wisconsin Economyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlRoberta Gassman, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, reports there are signs the state's economy is improving.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:55:32 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlNew DNR Rule Could Restrict Shoreland Buildinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlThe Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has proposed a new rule aimed at protecting the environment. The rule has been approved by the Natural Resources Board and is being studied byWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:54:55 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlDemand Grows for Smaller Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlCensus Bureau data shows that the median size of a new single-family home in the United States shrank to 2,215 square feet in 2008 from 2,277 square feet the year before.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:53:52 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlCondos Forced Into Creative Actionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlU.S. condominium lenders, developers, and associations are turning to unconventional strategies to avert financial distress as the foreclosure epidemic continues.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:53:15 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlAuctioning: A Viable Home Marketing Techniquehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlMore and more real estate agents are warming up to the concept of property auctions -- so much so that the National Association of REALTORS now offers its members educational curriculum on the marketing strategy and its benefits.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:52:25 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlIs Your Home on the Tube?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlHome on the Tube is a new and free online video platform that allows home buyers to view streaming videos of listings that make them feel as though they actually are touring the properties.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:51:38 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlAssault on Sales Agent Punctuates Safety Weekhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlThe sexual assault of a residential property agent in Cary, N.C., on Sept. 6 coincided with the National Association of Realtors' annual kickoff of "Realtor Safety Week," driving home the gravity of safety issues within the profession.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:50:59 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlLevel of Service Creates Successhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlWhile skilled real estate agents can improve by embracing Internet tools, experts note that the Web will not help agents achieve success if they lack the appropriate fundamental skills.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:48:33 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlDocuSign Gets iPhone Apphttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlSmart Mobile Solutions has rolled out a $6.99 iPhone application that allows real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others to access its e-signature services from their smartphones.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:47:49 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlThe Joy of Real Estate Operationshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlTDS Associates managing partner Robert Hahn says there are several ways that real estate agents can parlay their love of sales and marketing translates into higher profits. They would be smartWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:47:12 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlNew Wrinkles Used in Real Estate Marketinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlReal estate agents are going beyond the food and raffles generally used to attract people to open houses. Lani Belisle of VIP Realty Group recently held an open house for a $439,000Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:46:35 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_18.htmlGreenfield Planning $60M Developmenthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlIn the Milwaukee suburb of Greenfield, city officials are proceeding with what will be one of southern Milwaukee County's biggest mixed-use building sites. Officials are assembling 47 acres of publicWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:40:29 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlWisconsin Utilities Projecting Lower Costs to Heat Homes With Natural Gas This Winterhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlThe price of natural gas is at its lowest point in over seven years, which has Wisconsin utilities forecasting lower costs to heat homes this winter. The price of the fuel has plummeted by almostWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:39:55 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlMerrill Hopes Location Attracts Business Development to Cityhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlOfficials in Merrill, Wis., hope the city's position in the center of the state will entice more developers to make the Highway 51 corridor a gateway to the Northwoods. Merrill recently hiredWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:39:17 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlVacation Home Market 'Realistic'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlBargain hunters have descended on Wisconsin's lakefront vacation home market in search of deals. But some sellers are not taking too kindly toWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:38:39 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlWisconsin Is Warning Homeowners About Loan Modification Scams and Foreclosure Rescue Scamshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlThe Wisconsin Department of Justice has teamed up with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to issue a consumer advisory on foreclosure "rescue" services and loan workout solicitations.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:37:49 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlNew Normal for Home Sales: Buyers Have the Powerhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlThe housing downturn and economic crisis have made closing a home sale more difficult, but deals are getting done. Sellers must remember thatWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:36:57 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlU.S. Real Estate Professionals' Forward-Looking Market Sentiment Improves 5.4 Percenthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlThe August release of the Real Estate Confidence Index (RECI) -- which monitors market sentiment of property professionals for the present time as well as in the short and long termsWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:36:19 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlThe Principles of Negotiationhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlGiven that home buyers and sellers place a high value on the ability of real estate agents to negotiate on their behalf, George Mantor of The Associates Financial Group, a real estate consulting firm, saysWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:35:41 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlWith Every Tweet, Provide a Takeawayhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlTwitter co-founder Jack Dorsey says the social networking site should be used to inform people about attention-grabbing news. For real estate professionals, this meansWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:34:59 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlLocal REALTORS Targeting Foreign Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlOut of its 1,400 local chapters, the National Association of REALTORS has selected the Naples Area Board of Realtors (NABOR) to develop a model for targeting home buyers from other countries.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:34:20 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlReal Estate Pros Urged to Use 'Digital Tools'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlBrad Andersohn of ActiveRain.com, a Facebook-like social networking site for real estate professionals, insists agents should take the time to engage in digital networking.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:33:15 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlOnline Video Advertising Shows Signs of Lifehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlReal estate agents increasingly are turning to online video advertisements to promote listings. Coldwell Banker has gone as far as creating aWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:32:33 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlPutting Prospecting to Workhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlWhen it comes to marketing to potential clients, most successful REALTORS do not spend the bulk of their days making call after random call. Rather, top producers will selectivelyWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:31:56 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlTarget Builders and Boost Your Businesshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlGeorge Mantor of The Associates Financial Group, a real estate consulting firm, says realty agents would be wise to turn their attention to new construction to drum up business.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:30:57 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_14.htmlPublic Housing Loans Approved for New Transit Center in Downtown La Crossehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlThe Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority has pledged $3.5 million in financing and $9.4 million in federal economic stimulus dollars to complete the housing portion of the public transit center project in La Crosse.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:26:53 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlNielsen: Milwaukee Loses TV Market Householdshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlNielsen Media Research reports that the Milwaukee metro area lost more than 3,560 TV homes this year. At the same time, though, it did manage to holdWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:26:16 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlNational Home Sales Jump, Central Wisconsin Catching Uphttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlThe U.S. Commerce Department reports that new home sales jumped 9.6 percent in July, marking four straight months of gains. Larry Bunton, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker ActionWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:25:37 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlShorewest Acquires Savaglio and Capehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlEight years ago, REALTORS Randy and Toni Savaglio and Fritz and Cherri Cape joined forces to establish the largest real estate company in Racine. Earlier this week, their firm merged withWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:24:59 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlMadison Real Estate Management Company Uses Social Media to Launch Public Awareness Campaign on $8,000 Federal First Time Homebuyer Tax Credithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlMadison-based Bruner Realty Inc. recently launched a social media campaign targeting first-time homebuyers. The educational campaign is specifically intended toWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:24:11 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlFifteen Top Rural Areas to Retirehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlAccording to a newly published report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service, the rural population age 55-75 will increase by at least 30 percent between 2010 and 2020 if baby boomers follow similarWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:23:19 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlPending Home Sales on a Roll, Up for Sixth Straight Monthhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlThe National Association of REALTORS reports that its index for pending home sales rose 3.2 percent in July from June, and signed contracts have now risen for six consecutive months.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:22:40 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlDallas Company Launches Real Estate Applicationhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlDallas-based InstantInfo Corp. has launched eFastInfo.com, a new computer application that allows smart phone users to get instant information aboutWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:21:53 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlNAR Offers REALTORS Certification for Short Sales, Foreclosureshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlThe National Association of REALTORS reports that almost a third of the previously owned homes that changed hands over the past three months were either foreclosure orWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:21:01 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlRecruiting Experienced Agents -- What's Your Strategy?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlBringing on seasoned, producing REALTORS can give a brokerage new energy, add credibility to the brand, and positively impact the bottom line. Developing and executing aWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:20:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlAgents Push Pools as 'Staycations' Grow Popularhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlWith the recession pinching household budgets, more and more families are favoring "staycations" over trips away from home. Realty agents, in turn, increasingly are incorporatingWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:19:21 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlThe Seven Rules of Advertisinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlAdvertisements tend to generate anonymous complaints to state real estate commissions, regardless of whether the ads in question comply with regulations.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:18:27 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlReal Estate Sites See Sharp Increase in Traffichttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlConsidering that pending home sales are at the highest level seen in two years, it is no surprise that real estate Web sites are seeing more traffic.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:17:37 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlUsing Your Phone Behind the Wheelhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlWith REALTOR Safety Week slated for Sept. 13-19, real estate professionals should consider tips to safely use their cell phones while driving, provided such a practice is legally allowed in their states.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:16:20 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/September/2009_09_04.htmlWisconsin Becomes the First State to Require BIM on Public Projectshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlStarting July 1, 2009, all Wisconsin state projects with a total budget of at least $5 million and all new construction with a minimum budget of $2.5 million mustWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:11:25 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlProperty Values Down But Not Outhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlAccording to a newly released Department of Revenue (DOR) study, property values in Wisconsin have remained remarkably stable over the last year.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:10:42 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlMadison Chronic Nuisance Ordinance Up for Renewalhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlIn Wisconsin, Madison's two-year experiment with a chronic nuisance ordinance is set to end on Sept. 30. City officials are now debatingWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:10:05 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlGreen Bay Receives Housing Grantshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlHUD recently awarded more than $1.6 million to the city of Green Bay to support affordable housing initiatives and to help make improvements to low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:09:18 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlKeeping Stimulus Momentum Goinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlEarlier in the year, Congress approved a tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers, which has gone on to give a sorely needed boost to home sales both in Wisconsin and nationwide.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:08:43 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlHome Prices Level Offhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlHome prices appear to be stabilizing. In this year's second quarter, the Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index recorded its first upward turn in quarter-over-quarter home pricesWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:07:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlBernanke to Be Reappointed as Fed Chairmanhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlPresident Barack Obama this week announced the nomination of Ben Bernanke to a second term as Federal Reserve chairman.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:05:44 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlKnow Your Buyers; Better Their Liveshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlRelocation.com's June survey of people who recently moved indicates that 26 percent did so to expand their living space, 24 percent to live in a better locationWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:04:54 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlReal Estate Marketing Strategies -- Are You Sabotaging Your Own Success?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlVeteran real estate business coach Dr. Maya Bailey, author of "Law of Attraction for Real Estate Professionals," says REALTORS often stand in their own wayWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:04:10 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlReal Estate Notebook: Local REALTOR Harnesses Latest Phone Technologyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlVoice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology is making its way into the realty profession. A Goshen, N.Y., brokerage recently became the firstWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:03:27 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlGreen' Is Low Real Estate Priorityhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlA new study shows that high square footage and "eco-friendly" features are not as important to today's home buyers as such other characteristics as generous storage and closet spaceWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:02:46 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlReal Estate Agents Turn to Specialists for Short-Sale Helphttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlShort sales now account for up to 67 percent of some REALTORS' transactions. To ensure they have plenty of time to list and show properties, many of these agents are working withWed, 23 Sep 2009 17:02:02 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlREOTrans Launches Online Certification Programhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlA new online certification program is now available to property professionals who market real estate owned (REO) homes.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:01:06 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.html4 Steps to Sold: Making AIDA Work for You in Real Estate Marketinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlReal estate agents should use the AIDA -- Attention, Interest, Desire, Action -- formula to generate new business.Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:59:49 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_28.htmlHome Prices on the Upswinghttp://money.cnn.com/2009/08/25/real_estate/June_CaseShiller/index.htm?section=money_realestateA jump in the national S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index suggests that the very steep price drops of the past few years may be over.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:50:01 CDThttp://money.cnn.com/2009/08/25/real_estate/June_CaseShiller/index.htm?section=money_realestateMadison's New Smoke Alarm Ordinance Goes Into Effect Saturdayhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe first half of Madison's new smoke alarm ordinance is now in effect, requiring all apartment communities and rental properties to have smoke alarms installed.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:33:03 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlSlight Increase in Building Permits for Single-Family Homes in Dane Countyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlBuilding permits for single-family homes in Dane County, Wis., are showing a slight increase this summer. Indeed, there were 76 and 71 permits issued during June and July, respectively, versus 62 and 50 for each month a year earlier.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:32:03 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlSenate Panel Backs Hiking Fine for No-Call List Violationshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlIn Wisconsin, the five-member Senate Committee on Small Business, Emergency Preparedness, Technical Colleges, and Consumer Protection last week unanimously approved raising the fine for violating Wisconsin's no-call list from $100 to $1,000.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:31:28 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlHome Sales Up in Shawano, Oconto Countieshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe Wisconsin REALTORS® Association reports that second-quarter sales of existing homes in Shawano and Oconto counties rose almost 15 percent versus the same three-month period a year ago.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:30:30 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlREALTORS® Optimistic Despite Sales Drophttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlIn Door County, Wis., REALTORS® remain optimistic despite the fact that second-quarter home sales fell more than 22 percent from the same period a year ago.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:29:47 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlSheboygan County REALTORS® Unite to Promote the $8,000 Tax Credithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe Sheboygan County Board of REALTORS®, at the suggestion of a group of brokers and local lenders, developed a public awareness campaign entitled “August Home Buyers Month” to promote the $8,000 tax credit to county residents.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:29:11 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlWRA: Wisconsin Housing Market May Be Stabilizinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) reports that the state's residential real estate market is showing signs of stabilization.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:28:30 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlHome Builders' Index at Highest Point in a Yearhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB's) housing market index climbed one point this month to 18, its best reading since June 2008.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:27:29 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlReal Estate Rebound? Existing-Home Sales Inch Upward in Chicago Regionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlMidwest Real Estate Data LLC reports that July sales of existing homes in the Chicago metro area posted the first year-over-year gain in at least two years.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:26:52 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlSay Goodbye to Newspaper Advertisinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlIntero Real Estate Services eliminated print advertisements and the purchase of online banner ads and featured listings. At the same time, it managed to boost its market share.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:59:31 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlVideo Best Practices: Online Video -- Make Your Investment Counthttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlThe business community is beginning to recognize the value of online video as a marketing tool, but companies must take the appropriate steps in order to create a high-quality Web video that has the desired effect.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:58:48 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlSelling Homes, One Facebook Friend at a Timehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlA June survey by the National Association of REALTORS® shows a jump in the number of members using social networking sites for business purposes to 84 percent from 33 percent a year ago.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:58:03 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlMaking Real Estate More Social and Mobilehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlA hot topic at the recent Real Estate Connect Conference in San Francisco was the need for realty agents to adopt mobile apps and social networking as more consumers embrace smartphones.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:57:18 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlFocus on Listingshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlReal estate professionals would be unwise to focus solely on buyers, as many are unqualified and agents often have little to show for all of the effort they put into working with them.Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:55:45 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_21.htmlA Better Way to Promote State's Business Climatehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlThe Wisconsin Business Council (WBC) was recently formed to work with citizens and elected officials in developing a pro-business, pro-employment agenda with the goal of making Wisconsin a better place to start a business, expand a business and find new investment opportunities.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:46:56 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlWHEDA Offers Assistance to Rural Home Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlThe Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) is making down payment assistance grants available to 31 income-qualifying households in rural Wisconsin.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:46:18 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlFannie Withholds Approval for MGIChttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlSkyrocketing claims are sucking up capital at mortgage insurers, prompting MGIC Investment Corp. to look at transferring as much as $1 billion from an inactive underwriting unit and using those funds to write more policies.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:45:45 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlA Developing Trend: Biggest Residential Construction Projects Are Apartment Buildingshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlIn Wisconsin, developers of large residential projects are marveling at Madison's growing glut of condos. The past year has seen a plethora of new rental apartments added in the state capital, a handful of large homes, but not a single new condominium development.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:43:44 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlCredit Disqualifies Some for Habitat Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlDue to credit problems, a number of potential home buyers have failed to qualify for the Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity homebuilding program.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:42:55 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlGuide Answers Waterfront Property Questionshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlThe UW-Extension has teamed up with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to publish "Choosing the Right Waterfront Property."Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:42:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlMilwaukee County July Home Sales Increasehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlThe Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® reports that home sales in Milwaukee County rose more than 10 percent during the month of July versus the same month a year earlier.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:41:02 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlFirst-Time Home Buyers Get New State Incentivehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlFirst-time home buyers in New York have an added incentive for entering the ownership market, thanks to a new tax credit equal to 20 percent of their annual mortgage interest.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:40:14 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlDrive Search Engine Traffic With Video SEOhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlWith Google, Bing, Yahoo and other search engines allowing Web surfers to search for video results, small businesses need to use video search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure their videos appear in both video searches and organic search results.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:39:20 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlHow Can Agents Attract Buyers to Open Houses?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlA recent poll conducted on behalf of Trulia by Harris Interactive shows that 62 percent of home buyers use online sites to locate open houses.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:38:35 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlOpen House Events Still Mainstay in Real Estate Bizhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlWhile some REALTORS® are using virtual tours as an alternative to open houses in the current market, others say they continue to benefit from opening homes to prospective buyers every Sunday afternoon.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:37:52 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlWhy Your Real Estate Agent Packs Pepper Sprayhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlAgents holding open houses or showing for-sale properties by themselves can be a target for violent crime. The possible threat seems magnified as of late, with so many foreclosed homes on the market that offer a whole new set of personal-safety concerns.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:37:09 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlClosing.com Widget Estimates Closing Costshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlReal estate professionals can embed Closing.com's widget in their Web sites to facilitate the calculation of closing costs so that consumers can select the best deal.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:36:27 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlSelling Home Can Be Emotionalhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlProperty professionals handling the sale of a home an older person who must downsize or move into assisted housing or the sale of a deceased parent's home by the surviving offspring may find themselves in the middle of a hotbed of emotion.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:35:32 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlFacebook's a Great Friend to Businesseshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlWith about 120 million users logging onto Facebook one or more times per day, companies are finding the social networking site valuable in generating business -- particularly because it allows them to interact with consumers in ways that their Web sites do not allow.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:23:43 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_14.htmlRacine Man Takes Over Proposed Owens Squarehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlDewy Rose Capital Ventures LLC owner Brent Oglesby is now the potential developer of the two-acre Corinne Owens Square in Racine, Wis. The city owns the site and had previously given an option to buy it to Milwaukee-based developer Damon Dorsey.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:22:54 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlUnemployment Weakens Local Office Markethttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlMarcus & Millichap reports that Milwaukee's office market is experiencing continued weakening due to such factors as rising unemployment and a lack of new business.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:22:09 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlTwo Rivers Officials Say Shoreline Condos Not Plannedhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlTwo Rivers, Wis., officials have refuted recent media reports that they are seeking to build condominiums along the city's shoreline.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:21:28 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlGreen Bay City Council Reins In Packers Party Houseshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlGreen Bay's city council has finally implemented an ordinance that puts a halt to renting out private homes as party houses for Green Bay Packers home games.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:20:42 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlProposal Would Restrict Development in Areas Containing 'Hydric Soil'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlIn Wisconsin, Dane County Board Supervisor John Hendrick has proposed restricting development in areas containing what is known as "hydric soil."Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:19:21 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlHomebuilders Think Smallhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlWith discounted foreclosures flooding the market, home builders are retooling their offerings to appeal to first-time buyers.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:18:22 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlInventory of Houses Falls in Julyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlThe number of residential properties on the for-sale market fell 2.5 percent in July from the month before and decreased 27 percent from a year earlier, reports ZipRealty Inc.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:55:30 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlPending Home Sales Up 5th Straight Monthhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlThe National Association of REALTORS reports that pending sales of existing homes increased for the fifth consecutive month in June, driven by reduced prices, favorable borrowing costs, a big supply of properties from which to choose and a federal tax credit for first-time buyers.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:54:50 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlSome Home Flippers Seek Aid by Flipping St. Joseph on His Headhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlA pious act to some, a superstition to others, the practice of burying a statute of St. Joseph upside down on a property up for sale is finding more followers in today's challenging real estate market.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:50:33 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlWhere 'For Sale' Listings Are Changinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlResidential property listings are shifting focus from print, with only 47 percent of house-hunters poring over local newspaper ads compared to 87 percent of prospective buyers logging on to the Web to find a home.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:49:36 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlSocial Networking Strategies -- What's the Right Way to Push Your Business on Facebook?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlBusinesses that want to take advantage of Facebook as a marketing tool must keep a few factors in mind. Creating a fan page is one way to attract attention, for example, but the page should focus on the company, not the individual -- even if that person is the lone employee.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:49:09 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlMobile Tagging Is Not a Crimehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlWith more people using iPhones and BlackBerry devices, real estate professionals can get more exposure with QR (Quick Response) codes, which are barcodes read by camera-equipped smartphones.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:47:52 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlTracking What Workshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlReal estate brokers have access to an array of software applications to collect data that can be used to boost performance and set goals.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:46:58 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlReal Estate Pros Find Creative Ways to Assist Clients Close the Dealhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlThe slow housing market has prompted real estate professionals to go back to the basics to get deals done. Many agents are targeting first-time buyers because they have access to an $8,000 federal tax credit for home purchases as well as to FHA loans that allow them to buy without a 20-percent down payment.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:46:08 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlReal Estate From Your Pockethttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlChris Larsson, broker with Oregon-based Coldwell Banker Barbara Sue Seal Properties, recently created an iPhone application specifically for real estate agents. AgentWorx makes it possible for agents to keep track of their listings and other information and immediately communicate with clients while in the field.Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:44:33 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/August/2009_08_07.htmlHUD Releases RESPA FAQshttp://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/ramh/res/faqfinalrev3.pdfThe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently released frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the new RESPA rule.Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/ramh/res/faqfinalrev3.pdfDoyle Says No to Third Term But Pledges Full Agenda Through 2010http://www.madison.com/wsj/topstories/462351Gov. Jim Doyle’s announcement Monday that he will not seek a third term as governor sets off Wisconsin’s first wide-open governor’s race since 1982 and promises to cause a political chain reaction that could affect political offices around the state.Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.madison.com/wsj/topstories/4623512nd Quarter Housing Statistics Releasedhttp://www.wra.org/Q22009Wisconsin home sales and median prices both fell in the second quarter of 2009 relative to that same quarter in 2008, according to WRA data just released. Despite significant job losses in manufacturing and other sectors that have pushed the state unemployment rate to 9 percent in June, REALTORS® say the state housing market is actually showing signs of stabilization.Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/Q22009WRA Seeking Committee Membershttp://www.wra.org/inside_wra/Committees/committee_application.htmThe WRA is seeking volunteers to serve on its various committees for 2009-10 including Convention, Equal Opportunity, Legal Action Fund, Professional Standards and more. Click on the "More" button and submit your application by August 21!Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/inside_wra/Committees/committee_application.htmShould Madison Offer a Bigger Financial Carrot to Lure Businesses, Jobs?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422448In Wisconsin, a number of Madison officials are pushing the city to more aggressively use financial incentives to lure businesses and create jobs. To date, the discussion has centered on industrial development, but may later include a broad range of projects.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:35:19 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422448Wisconsin Ranks 10th In Child Well-Beinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422532The newly released Kids Count report ranks Wisconsin 10th overall nationwide in terms of child well-being, a slight improvement over its 2008 standing.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:34:22 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422532Wisconsin REALTORS® Start Web Site to Offer Guidance for Struggling Homeowners Facing Foreclosureshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422525A new Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) Web site offering a foreclosure-prevention guide to homeowners is receiving high marks. The site, at www.wisconsinforeclosurekit.org, is being viewed as both a service to customers and a bid to reduce the harm foreclosures are causing in residential real-estate markets statewide.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:33:38 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422525Milwaukee Area Housing Recovery?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422539Milwaukee-area REALTORS® report that an uptick in housing sales locally during June was mainly due to a federal first-time home buyer tax credit introduced earlier in the year.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:32:41 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422539Dunn County Housing Market Starts to Pick Up Steamhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422517In Wisconsin, Dunn County's residential property market appears to be gaining some momentum. In particular, homes in the low $100,000s are moving more quickly now than they have in the past year.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:31:36 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422517Condition, Price Keys to Selling Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422521John Flor, chairman of the board-elect for the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association, reports that the housing market in the northwestern part of the state is improving.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:30:47 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422521New-Home Sales Jump as Prices Fall Sharplyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422137The Commerce Department reports that sales of new single-family homes rose 11 percent in June to an annualized rate of 384,000, making it the largest monthly gain in nearly eight years.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:29:30 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422137Midwest Home Sales Post 3 Percent Gainhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422544The National Association of REALTORS® recently reported that home sales in the Midwest increased nearly 3 percent during the month of June -- the first annual increase since September.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:28:45 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422544Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 5 Tips to Feng Shui Your Mind and Get Your Listings Soldhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421354Real estate professionals who panic about tough market conditions can prevent their listings from selling, according to "Law of Attraction for Real Estate Professionals" author Dr. Maya Bailey.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:27:58 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421354The Upside of Entering on a Downswinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422412Although the housing market is in the midst of a downturn, many people are choosing careers in real estate. Experts say those who are passionate about their careers can do well in a struggling industry.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:27:02 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422412From Prayer to Facebook, Agents Try Whatever Workshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421924Although a temporary federal tax credit of up to $8,000 for anyone who has not owned a home in the past three years is generating some activity in the residential property markets, the reluctance of many would-be buyers to commit during these volatile economic times has realty agents reaching back to the fundamentals of selling.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:26:20 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421924Dual Agents Can Balance Interestshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421596In response to criticism leveled at dual agency in real estate deals, Daniel Beirne of ZipRealty Inc. refutes the argument that the practice represents an inherent conflict of interest.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:25:27 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#421596Virtual Staging -- Brilliant (And Maybe Dangerous … )http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422395An emerging trend in real estate is the concept of "virtual staging," which entails a property agent e-mailing photos of an empty residence to a professional stager -- who then digitally enhances the photos with artwork, furnishings and other finishing touches to make the space seem more inviting.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:24:32 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422395The 7 Habits of Highly Successful Real Estate Agentshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422402Successful real estate agents have developed several useful habits, according to Scott Dixon, president of Network Communications' real estate division.Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:23:04 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_31.htm#422402$11 Million Senior 'Cottages' Development Planned for Menashahttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421498Commonwealth Companies is proposing to build an $11 million, 66-unit independent senior housing development in Menasha, Wis. The Fond du Lac-based firm has received nearly $1.2 million in tax credits via the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority to keep the rents affordable for seniors age 55 and older.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421498Milwaukee Committee Approves Rivianna Planshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421515The Milwaukee Common Council's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee has recommended approval of the revised plans for the Rivianna Development Group's $80 million mixed-use project.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421515Timing of Grand Chute's Sewer Fee Hike in Questionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421500Grand Chute, Wis., has proposed a $1,000 fee hike for new residential sewer connections. The proposal, part of a town plan to cover its share of the costs for a regional treatment plant overhaul, aims to keep annual user rate increases from skyrocketing.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421500Fondy Named to Magazine's List of '25 Best Places for Affordable Homes'http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421507Fond du Lac was recently named to Money magazine's list of "The 25 Best Places for Affordable Homes," placing 22nd.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421507Lack of Affordable Housing Spurs New Approachhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421505The Coulee Community Land Trust (CCLT) is a new nonprofit organization whose goal is to provide affordable homeownership opportunities to low-income people in Wisconsin.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421505Wisconsin REALTORS® Association Offers Online Project to Help People Avoid Foreclosureshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421496The Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) has officially kicked off an online public education project aimed at keeping people in their homes. Dubbed the Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Resource Center, the Web site at www.wisconsinforeclosurekit.org breaks down the foreclosure timeline, provides a glossary of terms and lists answers to frequently asked questions about the foreclosure process.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421496REALTORS® Say Housing Incentives Help Economy, Small Businesseshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420869Representatives for the National Association of REALTORS® stressed the importance of a healthy U.S. property sector in fostering economic growth and development as well as in helping small businesses -- including many real estate brokerages -- to flourish.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420869Housing Starts Had Surprise June Jumphttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420984The number of single-family homes under construction in June was the highest level of building activity in more than four years, and the housing starts data beat analysts' expectations.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420984Are Those Buyers Worth Your Time?http://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421044Although home prices are more affordable now than they have been in many years, real estate agents continue to grapple with a dearth of truly qualified buyers. Market conditions may tempt practitioners to represent any prospect who shows interest, but experts stress the importance of being selective in choosing clients.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421044Real Estate: Lease-to-Own an Option for Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421007More home buyers are approaching sellers with requests for lease-purchase arrangements, which give them time to amass the down payment needed to secure a mortgage and allow the seller to collect rental income in the meantime.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421007Rethinking the Open Househttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420207Realty industry insiders continue to debate the merits of holding open houses with some viewing them as useless, others holding them simply to placate sellers, and others yet perceiving them as an opportunity to reel in a prospect who is ready to purchase.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420207Own Your Nichehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421217Approximately 80 percent of home buyers want to work with real estate professionals who specialize in a certain property type, according to a 2008 National Association of REALTORS® survey.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421217iPhone3GS Has Slew of New Featureshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421369The "S" in Apple's new iPhone 3G S indicates speed, as the device opens Web pages and applications two times faster than the older iPhone 3G. However, the 3-megapixel autofocus digital camera might be the most impressive feature.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#421369The Art of Selling a Home Despite a Marital Splithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420831Marriages already strained by the economic crisis are thrust into even worse territory when couples choose to divorce but cannot sell their homes. Each spouse needs the proceeds of the property sale to make a down payment on another home or to otherwise move on with their lives.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420831Virtual Staging Sparks Sales of Vacant Homeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420990Real estate agents are building on the concept of online property listings, going a step further by digitally enhancing empty homes to make them more visually appealing.Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_24.htm#420990Federal Housing Finance Agency Publishes Update on Home Valuation Code of Conducthttp://www.wra.org/pdf/government/hvcc_NOTICE_7_22_09F.pdfThe Home Valuation Code of Conduct (Code) announced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (Enterprises) in December 2008 was developed after a long period of public input and was deployed on May 1, 2009, after a four-month transition period. The Code expanded on existing Enterprise appraisal standards, seeking to redress problems that contributed to the current mortgage crisis and to improve the quality of the mortgage loans they purchase. Unfortunately, during the 2005 to 2007 period, mortgage lending was much too aggressive and placed pressure on the appraisal process. In some cases, that resulted in unrealistically high appraisals, hurting homebuyers as well as investors. The HVCC is designed to promote professional appraisals free from inappropriate pressure from lenders, borrowers or brokers. The Code’s main purpose is to protect appraisers and the quality of appraisals from undue influence and conflicts of interest.Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/pdf/government/hvcc_NOTICE_7_22_09F.pdfShort Circuit: Struggling Homeowners Opt for Alternative in Order to Avoid Foreclosurehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420525Short sales are becoming increasingly common in Wisconsin and elsewhere. Defaults on risky mortgages began the housing downturn in late 2006. Lately, though, REALTORS® have observed more people with good loans and good credit needing to sell their homes fast because of job losses and other factors.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420525Hidden Bills, Poor Upkeep Can Push Home Prices Downwardhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420514REALTORS® Association of Northeast Wisconsin President K.C. Maurer reports that among the reasons foreclosed homes often sell for thousands less than equally valued homes for sale in traditional ways is that they may not have the same high level of upkeep.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420514Affordable Housing Trust Fund Could Be Aid Option for Madison Rentershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419957In Madison, Alds. Bridget Maniaci and Michael Schumacher are exploring whether to use the city's Affordable Housing Trust Fund to help those low-income apartment residents who face sharp rent increases because of a cut in federal Section 8 vouchers.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419957Foreclosure Resource Center Websitehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420512The Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) recently unveiled the "Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Resource Center," an online resource designed to provide homeowners with the necessary tools to stop foreclosure before it begins. For those homeowners already in foreclosure, the Web site offers advice on what to do next.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420512Milwaukee-Area Home Sales Up, Prices Downhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420516According to housing statistics released by Metro MLS Inc, single-family home sales in the four-county Milwaukee metro area rose 3.6 percent last month.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420516Mortgages Are Now a Bank's Best Friendhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420359Analysts expect most of the big commercial banks to report good earnings for the second quarter as a result of profitable mortgage operations.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420359U.S. Economy Seen Recoveringhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419906Citing housing market gains and unexpectedly lower jobless claims, the Economic Cycle Research Institute confirmed that its leading U.S. index climbed 1.1 points during the week ended July 3 to 118.5.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419906Real Estate Photos Make Online Home Listings Stand Outhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419593Research from a number of sources, including the National Association of REALTORS®, supports the argument that property listings posted on the Web with accompanying photographs are more likely than those without to attract buyer attention.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419593IDX -- If Real Estate Is Location, Location, Location -- Then Map, Map, Maphttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419336The mantra for real estate -- location, location, location -- has been chanted repeatedly over the years, and with good reason. Nothing is more important to buyers than to find a home where they also have access to their jobs, schools and other places that are important to them.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419336Getting More Bang From Bounce Ratehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420157A savvy real estate professional will consider the bounce rate on his or her Web site -- which compares the number of people visiting the site with the number of people who leave after viewing only one page -- to determine where changes should be made.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420157Targeting Safetyhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419905Real estate agents have in recent years been the victims of violence, including a recent hammer attack against a female REALTOR® in Florida who was showing a property. While the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) does not keep statistics on crimes perpetrated against members, spokesman Iverson Moore says the organization does recognize the problem and is taking steps to address it.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419905Tools for Tweetshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419914Many software companies have rolled out applications to help businesses maximize the benefits they reap from Twitter, and small firms with limited resources stand to benefit most from these programs. Experts recommend, however, that they use well-known applications or at least research customer experiences before employing them.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#4199146 'Must-Haves' for Your Web Sitehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419175Real estate professionals who want to be competitive in today's marketplace must build an effective Web site to represent their services. It is imperative that the agent or firm's online base feature a personally written home page that conveys to users that they have found the right destination -- whether it be for newcomers to homeownership, those looking to trade up or luxury home buyers.Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#419175Brokers Need Social Media Guidelineshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420360The use of Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and blogging is taking off in the business community -- real estate professionals included. Agents are tapping into social media as an inexpensive and easy way to make contacts, drum up sales, create brands and manage customer relations. However, it is important not to lose sight of the risks of using such sites …Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_17.htm#420360REALTORS® Develop Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Web Sitehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0715_foreclosurewebsite.htmlThe Wisconsin REALTORS Association has created the Wisconsin Foreclosure Assistance Resource Center, www.wisconsinforeclosurekit.org. This Web site provides answers to frequently asked questions about Wisconsin’s foreclosure process and outlines steps homeowners can take to avoid foreclosure or navigate through the process for a better outcome.Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0715_foreclosurewebsite.htmlREALTORS Launch New Association Fan Pagehttp://www.wra.org/facebookThe Wisconsin REALTORS® Association have launched a new Association Fan Page. What's the difference between this and the group you already belong to? Fan pages allow you to receive updates from the WRA in your daily news feeds. Group pages do not. "Members will no longer need to visit the WRA group page to see if there are new updates available," says Rob Uhrina, VP of Marketing for the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association. "Stories will automatically publish to member's news feeds so that when they log in, they will be able to see and share our stories easier. We offer information on the industry on a regular basis. The new fan page will ensure members never miss an update from the WRA again." The WRA Group Page will continue to be available. However, new posts and updates will be published exclusively through the WRA fan page.Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/facebookWeathering the Storm' Topic of Local Meetinghttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419478A special event, titled "Weathering the Storm," has been scheduled for the evening of July 22 at The Pokegama in Chetek, Wis. Guest speakers will offer insight into surviving current economic conditions.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419478Estimate Shows Beloit Growthhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419490The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that Beloit's population increased by 0.9 percent from 2000 to 2008. In 2000, the Wisconsin city had a population of 35,846. By 2008, that total had increased to 36,160.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419490NR115 Could Force Major Changeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419479With Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources poised to implement a revised shoreline zoning code, officials in Oneida County are coming to terms with the implications of the revisions. The revised version of NR 115 features improvements that will have broad implications for property owners countywide.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419479Real Estate Agent Who Enjoys Her Job Sees No Reason to Retirehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419484Eulonda Roush, an 80-year-old agent with Century 21's office in La Crosse, has no plans to retire. She states, "This isn't work for me. I enjoy it, and I'm helping people."Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419484To Recuse or Not to Recusehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419481In Wisconsin, there has been much debate lately on whether a justice on the Wisconsin Supreme Court should recuse himself or herself from cases involving litigants who donated $1,000 or more to the judge's election campaign.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419481Waukesha Homebuilder J. Anthony Homes Acquiredhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419485Victory Homes of Wisconsin owners Daryl Prusow and John Stoker have founded The Victory Companies, a new holding company that has purchased limited assets of Waukesha-based J. Anthony Homes.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419485Cities Grow at Suburbs Expense During Recessionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418914Newly released U.S. Census Bureau data shows that cities that for years lost residents to the suburbs are holding onto their populations with more people trapped in homes they can't sell and others preferring the closeness and amenities of living in urban environments over the single-family homes and McMansions of the far-flung suburbs.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418914Wisconsin Regulators Expected to OK Minnesota Wind Farmhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419486Wisconsin regulators appear likely to approve the Wisconsin Power & Light Company's plan for a massive wind farm in southern Minnesota. The Madison-based utility, a subsidiary of Alliant Energy, says the 32,000-acre farm could eventually have enough capacity to produce 400 megawatts of electricity for Wisconsin customers -- enough to power 100,000 homes.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419486Mapping, Google's Local Business Center & Going Mobilehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418391In the future, real estate offices will be more mobile -- meaning REALTORS® will work from home or in the field and go to the office only when in need of meeting spaces. Intranets provide a business structure that is accessible online and can be used to manage listings, prospects, leads, and transactions. Brokers with these mobile offices pay lower operating and overhead costs.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418391Hot Desks' Are Herehttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418123The new offices of Real Estate Partners in Chattanooga, Tenn., acknowledge that real estate agents are mobile and perform much of their work outside of the office. The company embraces the "hot desks" format, in which a work station is created for use by any agent as necessary.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418123Home Sales Advantage: Fiber-Based Broadbandhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418708New research suggests that sellers of homes equipped with Verizon FiOS or other fiber-based broadband capabilities emphasize these amenities to prospective buyers. RVA LLC Market Research and Consulting's nationwide survey finds that more than eight out of 10 of the 600 people polled consider broadband service over fiber all the way to the home to be the No. 1 real estate development amenity.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418708Brokers Need to Go Back to Basics, Says Sales Guruhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418991Sales and realty guru Tom Hopkins has carved out an impressive career over the past 30-odd years as a prolific salesman and also as a speaker sharing the keys to his success. Despite the current state of the industry, he says the downturn trimmed down the glut of participants in the business -- which makes now a great time for determined agents to increase their profits.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#4189914 Easy Ways to Cultivate First-Time Home Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418952It is critical for real estate professionals to foster continuing relationships with young clients whom they have assisted in purchasing their first homes, as those customers are likely to be ready for a move in as few as six years as their families begin to bloom. From there, a REALTOR® who maintains a relationship with young customers can then help them move into their third stage of ownership: the dream home.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#418952Virtual Assistants' in Higher Demandhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419356Many businesses -- including REALTOR® offices -- are using virtual assistants to lower costs, as these telecommuting contractors do not require office space, equipment or benefits. Virtual assistants can handle such tasks as document preparation, paperwork, accounting and even translation or creative services.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419356Text Marketing Gets Message Into Hands of On-The-Go Consumershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419150Reaching a target audience through text messages on cell phones is a growing trend in the business world, from realty agents to restaurants. Marketers create a short word or phrase that consumers can text to a five- or six-character number.Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_10.html#419150Habitat Opens ReStore in Ashwaubenonhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418709The Habitat for Humanity ReStore has officially opened for business in Ashwaubenon, Wis. The new store specializes in selling used construction materials in an effort to lower housing costs.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418709Onalaska Considers New Utilityhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418706In Wisconsin, the city of Onalaska is looking to become the latest community in the state to establish a stormwater utility. If sanctioned by the Common Council, such a utility would be established next year. The state is requiring municipalities to reduce pollution flowing into storm sewers before it reaches the various waterways.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418706Resources Board Approves Shoreline Regulation Changeshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418697In Wisconsin, the Natural Resources Board has approved a major revision of zoning regulations that aims to improve water quality along the state's waterways. The regulations would set new limits on the construction of hard surfaces near rivers, lakes and streams and eliminate a controversial measure that limited landowners from making improvements that exceeded half of the value of the property from 35 feet to 75 feet of the shoreline.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418697Program on Web to Offer Information on Tax Credit for First-Time Home Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418701Madison-based Coldwell Banker Success is now offering people the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of this year's federal tax credit for first-time home buyers via a free online Webinar.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418701Milwaukee Edges Up in Populationhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418702While several Midwestern markets continued to shed population in the first decade of the 21st century, U.S. Census Bureau estimates maintain that Milwaukee added nearly 7,500 residents from 2000 to July 2008.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418702Tighter Home Appraisal Rules Can Be Locked Door for Unusual Designshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418693For the most part, Wisconsin has been insulated from the collapse of the housing market. However, one area where the state is feeling the pinch is when buyers, or homeowners looking to refinance, go to their banks to request a new mortgage.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418693DRL Launches External Newsletter - DRLink-Partner Editionhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418694The Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing and Secretary Celia Jackson announced the launch of a new external newsletter, the "DRLink-Partner Edition."Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418694Survey Shows Optimism on Housing Priceshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#416220A recent Predictor Poll by Housing Predictor asked consumers if they believed home prices would one day hit the record highs last seen during the residential property boom.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#416220When Apartments Fail, Buckingham Cos. Gets a Callhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418149As more apartment communities lapse into default, receiverships have become increasingly common.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418149Keep Your Virtual Employees in the Loophttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417651Whether they telecommute or work off-site, virtual workers are a vital component of any organization's workforce and culture.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417651REALTORS® Thinking Out of the Box to Get Prospective Buyers in the Doorhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417941The housing downturn has prompted REALTORS® across the country to take a closer look at their marketing strategies.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417941REALTORS® Throw Statewide Open Househttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417707More than 32 REALTOR® associations in Washington state participated in a statewide open house on June 27-28.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#417707Drip E-Mail -- The Slow, Effective Wayhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418383Real estate professionals are finding that drip e-mail campaigns need to be tweaked, as they often are perceived as spam and thus never are opened by the intended recipients.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418383Twittering Adds Up to Home Saleshttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418117Los Angeles REALTOR® Mark Gonzales, mentioned recently in REALTOR® Magazine's "30 Under 30," says Twitter is a great way for real estate professionals to connect to new clients without spending a ton of time and money.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418117In Slow Market, Home Life Is Stagedhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418377The slow housing market means more competition among sellers, many of whom are turning to stagers to make their homes more attractive to prospective buyers.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418377Open Houses Can Pull In Potential Buyershttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418378With homes moving off the market so slowly these days, sales tactics include everything from free vacations and vehicles to billboard advertising and incorporation of the principles of feng shui.Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/2009/July/2009_07_03.html#418378Pending Sales Up for Third Consecutive Monthhttp://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2009/06/phs_upRecord low mortgage interest rates boosted NAR's forward-looking pending home sales index 6.7 percent in April to 90.3 from a reading of 84.6 in March, and is 3.2 percent above April 2008 when it was 87.5. "Housing affordability conditions have been at historic highs, but now the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit is beginning to impact the market, too," says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. Read more or watch a video interview of Yun on the latest index figures.Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2009/06/phs_upThe Home Valuation Code of Conducthttp://www.realtor.org/government_affairs/gapublic/gses_hvcc_announcedNew York State Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (government sponsored enterprises) announced the final agreement of the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) on December 23, 2008, to change appraiser selection criteria that will help eliminate conflicts of interest on mortgage appraisals. The agreement has the support of the Federal Housing Finance Administration (FHFA). The requirements will have a significant impact on appraisal practices by lenders as they will have to comply with the new requirements agreed to by the government sponsored enterprises (GSE) if the lenders sell mortgages to the GSEs. The GSEs have agreed to implement the HVCC beginning May 1, 2009. For more information,Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.realtor.org/government_affairs/gapublic/gses_hvcc_announcedREALTOR® Technology Survey 2009http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB229BEYJ95S4Technology continues to transform the real estate marketplace and has played a significant role in shaping how real estate agents conduct their business. In order to better serve you, the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association periodically focuses on the role of technology in your business in order to help develop new products for your business. Survey participants will be entered into a contest to win a $75 gift certificate from Best Buy.Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/Convention09Housing Market Follows Economy Down in First Quarterhttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0512_hsgstats.htmlWisconsin home sales and median prices both fell in the first quarter of 2009 compared to that same quarter last year according to data just released by the WRA. The lingering national recession caused…Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0512_hsgstats.htmlNAR Introduces REALTORS® Core Health Insurancehttp://www.realtorscorehealthinsurance.com/According to NAR, more than one in four REALTORS® lack medical insurance and many more are significantly underinsured. Ideally everyone would have major medical insurance but many do not qualify due to pre-existing conditions or simply cannot afford the high cost of coverage. While this issue continues to be debated in Washington, NAR just introduced REALTORS® Core Health Insurance (RCHI) – an affordable and guaranteed-acceptance limited medical insurance program designed exclusively for REALTORS® under 65...Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.realtorscorehealthinsurance.com/NAR Launches GreenREsourceCouncil.orghttp://wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/default.htmIn partnership with the National Association of REALTORS®, the Green REsource Council announces the launch of the newly redesigned GreenREsourceCouncil.org, a Web site dedicated to promoting NAR's Green Designation to consumers and REALTORS®…Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://wra.org/online_pubs/Newswire/agent_edition/default.htmWRA Launches Public Awareness Campaign Focusing on $8,000 Tax Credithttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0417_tax_credit_campaign.htmlThe WRA launched a public awareness campaign today focusing on the $8,000 tax credit for home buyers. Components of the campaign include radio ads, a new Web microsite, resources for REALTORS®, and a Facebook fan page. resources and information for home buyers (www.wisconsinhomebuyer.org) The campaign runs through October, with updates to the sites throughout the campaign. To read the press release, Facebook fan page (www.wisconsinhomebuyer.org/facebook) resources for REALTORS® (www.wra.org/public_awareness_2009)Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDThttp://www.wra.org/online_pubs/press_releases/2009/pr0417_tax_credit_campaign.html