Tamie Hanson

06/03/2026

"June is National Home Ownership Month. 🏠 If you're a first time homebuyer, or considering becoming one, here are some tips for ensuring success on the path to home ownership:

1. Work on building your credit: A higher credit score can get you a better interest rate on your mortgage, saving you money long-term.

2. Gather your financial information: Loan providers will typically ask for 3 months of pay stubs and two years of tax returns. If you are self-employed or your income varies, you may need to submit more.

3. Develop a budget: Look for costs you can cut to save towards your down payment. Determine what you can reasonably afford—experts recommend keeping your mortgage payment 30% or less of your gross monthly income. You’ll also want to consider other expenses such as moving costs, HOA or condo fees, homeowner’s insurance, property taxes, closing costs, inspections, appraisals, and home repair and maintenance costs.

4. Talk to a real estate agent: A real estate agent can help you get clear on your needs and develop realistic expectations for the process. They will act as your ally, answering questions and guide you through the process. Find an agent you like and trust. You can ask for recommendations from friends and family, meet agents at open houses, or do some research on your own. Some people will choose a handful of agents and interview each one to find the best fit.

5. Get pre-approved: Having a pre-approval in hand when you’re ready to make an offer lets the seller know that you are a serious buyer who is prepared to make a deal and follow through. Not having one, especially in a competitive market, can result in your offer being rejected. Much like finding the right agent, you’ll want to find the right lender as well, so do some comparison shopping for the best rate and best fit for your needs.

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06/01/2026

Now that we have Memorial Day behind us...look at all the fun ahead of us in June! Bring on the Marquette Waterfront Festival and all the river shenanigans! 🎉🌊

05/01/2026

Spring is in full swing! 🌷 Make the most of it with these local events.

04/22/2026

Garage sale season is upon us, Wisconsin! Time to dust off those haggling skills and score some amazing deals on, let's be real, other people's old junk 😂. But hey, one person's trash is another person's treasure, right? Here are some community-wide and neighborhood sales happening this spring and summer, where you can find your next treasure!

04/16/2026

Spring is in the air and it’s time to enjoy homegrown goodness from our local farms! I’ve compiled a list of nearby farmers’ markets to choose from. Yet another reason our area is one of the best places to call home.

If you’re considering a move this spring or summer, let’s connect to create a plan to help you navigate this market.

02/11/2026

Call it...home, downtown getaway, cheaper than rent...anything you want to call it, this cute condo can be yours! Close to the lake and James Madison Park, the Capitol, and all the yummy downtown restaurants. Kitchen not needed but it is included:) If you love to cook, you'll love Madison's Farmers Market within walking distance! Get ready for summer festivities!

OFFICIAL LISTING website. 311 N Hancock Street, Unit 231, Madison, WI 53703, 670 square foot, 1 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, asking price of $300,000, MLS ID 2015746

01/08/2026

New Year, New Home: How to Set Smart Home-Buying Goals for the Year Ahead
The start of a new year is a natural time to set fresh goals. For many buyers, purchasing a home sits at the top of that list. Whether you're a first-time buyer or planning your next move, January offers a valuable opportunity to slow down, get organized, and approach the home-buying process with clarity...

The start of a new year is a natural time to set fresh goals. For many buyers, purchasing a home sits at the top of that list. Whether you're a first-time buyer or planning your next move, January offers a valuable opportunity to slow down, get organized, and approach the home-buying process...

01/05/2026

Winter is a beautiful time of year to discover the best of Wisconsin. With an abundance of family-friendly events and festivals coming up in the Madison area, make sure to plan ahead for these events.

01/01/2026

Looking Beyond Closets: How to Evaluate a Home's Storage Potential
When touring homes, it's easy to open a closet door, take a glance, and mentally check "storage" off the list. But smart buyers know that a home's true storage potential goes far beyond bedroom closets. Evaluating storage thoughtfully can save you from future frustration, clutter, and costly renovations...

When touring homes, it's easy to open a closet door, take a glance, and mentally check

01/01/2026

Happy New Year, everyone! As we ring in 2026, I’ve been reflecting on how much "home" really means. It’s more than just a listing or a square footage—it’s where your life happens.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey this past year. Whether we found your dream home together or just chatted about the market, I’m so grateful for this opportunity.

May your 2026 be filled with laughter in the kitchen, relaxation in the living room, and joy in every corner.