Wisconsin Real Estate Today

🎙️ Title fraud is one of the fastest-growing and least understood threats in real estate today — and most agents, buyers, and sellers don’t realize how vulnerable they are until it’s too late.In this episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, host John Gscheidmeier sits down with Lisa Petersen, a respected title industry expert, to uncover how title fraud actually happens, why it’s increasing across Wisconsin and beyond, and what real estate professionals and consumers must do to protect themselves.Lisa breaks down:What title fraud really is (and what it is not)The most common schemes impacting today’s real estate transactionsHow criminals exploit gaps in communication, documentation, and verificationRed flags every agent, buyer, and seller should recognize earlyWhy education, process, and trusted partners matter more than everWhether you’re a seasoned real estate professional or a homeowner planning to buy or sell, this episode delivers critical knowledge that could protect your transaction, your clients, and your reputation.This conversation sets the foundation for a two-part series — with Episode 64 diving deeper into one of the most dangerous forms of fraud in the industry today: Seller Impersonation Scams.🎧 Don’t miss this must-listen episode that every agent should be sharing with their clients.

🎙️ Episode 62 – The Unveiling of the Certified Pre-Owned Home ProgramIn Episode 62 of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, John Gscheidmeier and Office Manager Monica Young pull back the curtain on one of RE/MAX Service First’s most powerful seller advantages: the Certified Pre-Owned Home Program 🏡✨This episode dives into why the program was created, how it works, and what problems it solves for today’s homeowners — especially sellers who want top dollar 💰, fewer surprises 🚫, and a smoother, more predictable path from list to close.John and Monica break down the behind-the-scenes steps that separate an ordinary listing from a Certified Pre-Owned listing, including proactive preparation and buyer-confidence tools like a pre-inspection 🔍, professional staging guidance 🛋️, and high-impact marketing assets such as 3D photography 📸. They also explain how value-add protections like a home warranty 🛠️ help reduce friction and eliminate last-minute renegotiations.Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear how the Certified Pre-Owned Home Program is designed to deliver one clear outcome: more certainty ✔️, more confidence 🔒, and a clearer path to a higher net result 📈 — all while making the selling experience feel organized, professional, and stress-free.If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling in Waukesha County, Lake Country, or the greater Milwaukee area 📍 — or you simply want to understand what next-level listing preparation truly looks like — this episode lays out the blueprint 🧠📊.

🎙️ Episode 61: The Market in Minutes with John GscheidmeierHost: John Gscheidmeier | CEO & Broker/Owner, RE/MAX Service First 🔗 Listen now: https://www.wisconsinrealestatetoday.com/s2/61In this quick but powerful “Market in Minutes” episode, John Gscheidmeier breaks down the real story behind today’s housing and mortgage markets. 🏡💰✅ What you’ll learn:Where the Federal Reserve currently stands on rate policy—and what that means for mortgage borrowers.How mortgage rates are actually calculated, including the often-overlooked “gap” between the 10-year Treasury yield and retail mortgage rates.Why the spread between Treasury yields and rates has remained historically wide—and what needs to happen before rates finally ease.John’s forecast for 2026, including likely mortgage rate ranges, national home price trends, and estimated home sales volume across the U.S.What buyers and sellers in Wisconsin can expect as we head toward a more balanced market cycle.John makes complex market data simple and actionable—helping you understand not just where the market is, but where it’s headed.Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or just real-estate-curious, this short episode delivers the insights you need to make smart moves in today’s changing market.🎧 Tune in, take notes, and stay ahead of the curve with Wisconsin Real Estate Today.#RealEstatePodcast #MortgageRates #HousingMarket #WisconsinRealEstate #REMAXServiceFirst #WisconsinRealEstateToday #MarketUpdate

In this episode, I sit down with Dustin Grenier, VP of Mortgage Lending at Epic Mortgage, to break down today’s interest rate environment, explain what’s behind the recent swings, and share tactical guidance for both buyers and homeowners considering refinancing.✨ Key Takeaways: 📊 What’s driving the latest rate shifts — inflation, Fed policy & economic data 🔒 When to lock and when to float: Dustin’s strategy for managing uncertainty 🏡 Refinance vs. purchase — how to weigh your options in today’s market 📑 Which loan programs adapt best in volatile conditions 🧑‍🏫 How Dustin educates clients to cut through the noise and make smart decisions 📍 Local Wisconsin housing insights and how they connect to national trendsWhether you’re thinking about buying, refinancing, or just trying to make sense of all the rate talk, Dustin brings clarity, perspective, and actionable advice you won’t want to miss.👉 Listen now to Episode 59 of Wisconsin Real Estate Today!

Episode 58 – Are We In a Buyer’s Market?In this episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, we break down the June 2025 market numbers and tackle the big question: Are we finally shifting into a buyer’s market? 📉🏡With the median Metro Milwaukee home price now at $449,345 (per MetroMLS), prices are starting to flatten, and multiple offers are becoming less common. More listings are sitting without immediate offers, signaling a shift from the high-intensity seller’s market we’ve seen in recent years.But it’s not all one-directional. Market data can be conflicting—and my gut tells me that interest rate drops may be on the horizon. If that happens, expect demand to surge and prices to climb once again.Whether you're buying, selling, or just watching the market—this episode gives you the local insight you need right now.🎧 Listen now: https://www.wisconsinrealestatetoday.com/s2/58

Episode 58: Why Is My Home Not Selling? Host: John Gscheidmeier, RE/MAX Service First Duration: ~27 minutes🏠 In this solo episode, John dives into one of the most frustrating questions for home sellers: “Why isn’t my house selling?”Drawing from over a decade of personal experience and hundreds of transactions, John breaks down the top reasons homes sit on the market — and what you can do to fix it. From pricing pitfalls and showing condition issues to agent responsiveness and even seasonal timing, he offers sharp insights and actionable advice that every seller (and real estate agent) should hear.🔑 Key Topics Covered:The three P’s of why a home won’t sell: Price, Presentation, and PromotionHow overpricing affects buyer psychology and online visibilityReal talk about outdated finishes, clutter, odors, and deferred maintenanceThe critical importance of professional photography and stagingWhy an unresponsive or unmotivated agent could be hurting your chancesThe role of market conditions and interest rate shiftsWhen it’s time to adjust or even relaunch a listing📈 John also shares proven strategies from his team — including pre-listing inspections, Certified Pre-Owned Home benefits, and staging consultations — that have helped move “stale” listings to successful closings.💡 Whether you’re a frustrated seller, a curious homeowner, or an agent looking to improve your service, this episode delivers straight talk and smart tactics to help you get your home SOLD.John G. Gscheidmeier | RE/MAX Service First \ Waukesha, Lake Country | 414-559-8898 | john@soldwisconsin.com 

🎙️ Episode 57 — Do You Need a Real Estate Attorney in Wisconsin? | Guest: Elisa Ruer, Praktess LawDescription: In this episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, host John Gscheidmeier sits down with real estate attorney Elisa Ruer of Praktess Law to explore one of the most common questions in Wisconsin real estate: Do you need an attorney to buy or sell a home?Elisa explains how Wisconsin is unique in allowing competent, licensed real estate agents to manage the entire transaction without requiring legal counsel. Together, John and Elisa dive into the structure of the Wisconsin Offer to Purchase and break down key provisions—especially those related to seller disclosure obligations.They address a critical legal point: when a seller fails to disclose a material adverse fact, the agent is not only ethically bound—but legally required—to make that disclosure. Ignoring this duty can leave sellers exposed to post-closing lawsuits and other legal consequences.Whether you're an agent, buyer, or seller, this episode offers a smart, candid look at how to stay on the right side of the law while keeping deals on track.🎧 Tune in and learn:Why Wisconsin agents aren’t required to be attorneys—and why that worksThe importance of understanding the Offer to PurchaseWhat must be disclosed (even if the seller won’t)How to protect yourself from legal trouble post-sale📍 Brought to you by RE/MAX Service First & Wisconsin Real Estate Today  💼 Guest: Elisa Ruer, Attorney at Law – PraktessLaw.com

📄 Episode Description: In this episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, we’re joined by Sam Walker, City Assessor for Waukesha, to demystify the property assessment process and give homeowners and business owners the clarity they deserve.We break down:What a property assessment is and how it’s calculatedThe differences between residential and commercial assessmentsWhat happens during the Open Book period—and how to formally raise concernsThe difference between an assessment and an appraisalWhy assessments aim to reflect real market valueAnd why a change in assessed value doesn’t automatically mean your taxes are changingWhether you're a first-time homeowner, longtime resident, or local business owner, this episode will help you understand how Waukesha determines property values—and what you can do if something doesn’t seem right.📍 Location: Waukesha, Wisconsin 📅 Released: April 24, 2025 🎙 Hosted by John Gscheidmeier

Podcast Episode Summary: Wisconsin Real Estate Today – Episode 55Title: Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed in 2025? Expert Insights with Dustin GrenierHost: John GscheidmeierGuest: Dustin Grenier, Epic Mortgage – Brookfield, WIEpisode Overview:In this must-listen episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, host John Gscheidmeier sits down with mortgage expert Dustin Grenier of Epic Mortgage to discuss where mortgage rates are today and where they could be headed in 2025.With economic uncertainty, a shifting political landscape, and differing views between the new presidential administration and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, the housing market is at a crossroads. Will rates drop soon, or should buyers and homeowners prepare for higher costs?Key Topics Covered:📉 Current State of Mortgage Rates – Where are rates sitting today, and how are they impacting homebuyers and sellers?🏛️ Government vs. Federal Reserve – The presidential administration wants to lower rates, while Fed Chair Jerome Powell is resisting. Who will win, and how does this impact the market?🔮 Rate Predictions for 2025 – Dustin and John discuss where rates might go in the next 12 months and what this means for buyers, sellers, and refinancers.💡 Strategic Advice for Homebuyers & Sellers – Should you wait for lower rates or buy now? How can sellers position themselves in a changing market?🏡 Refinancing in 2025 – If rates drop, when will be the best time to refinance, and what should homeowners consider?Final Thoughts:With so much uncertainty in the housing market, this episode provides critical insights to help buyers, sellers, and homeowners make informed decisions. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or refinance, understanding where rates are headed is crucial.Listen Now!📢 Don’t Miss This One! Like, Share, & Tag someone who needs this info!#WisconsinRealEstateToday #Podcast #MortgageRates #InterestRates #RealEstateMarket #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #MortgageLending #Refinance #FedRates #HousingMarket #Waukesha #Milwaukee #Brookfield #DustinGrenier #EpicMortgage #JohnGscheidmeier #WisconsinRealtor #REMAX #REMAXServiceFirstWI #REMAXHustle #NoOneSellsMore

Host: John GscheidmeierGuest: Sophia from the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) of WaukeshaEpisode Overview:In this insightful episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, host John Gscheidmeier welcomes Sophia from HAWS to discuss the challenges and best practices of moving with pets. Whether planned or unexpected, relocation can be stressful for animals, and this episode provides expert advice on how to make the transition smoother for both pet owners and their furry companions.Key Takeaways:Understanding HAWS' Mission:The Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) supports Waukesha County with pet adoptions, education programs, and community assistance.They aim to build a no-kill community and provide resources to help owners keep their pets.Challenges of Moving with Pets:Moving can be extremely stressful for animals, particularly dogs and cats, who rely on routine and familiar surroundings.Dogs may become anxious seeing moving boxes, new environments, and unfamiliar people.Essential Pre-Move Considerations:For Renters & Condo Buyers:Research pet policies before committing to a new lease or purchase.Some landlords and condominium associations have breed or weight restrictions.Preparing Your Pets for the Move:Gradually introduce moving boxes and changes to avoid overwhelming them.Create a safe space for pets on moving day to reduce stress.Moving Day Strategies:If possible, arrange for someone to watch your pet during the busiest parts of the move.Introduce pets to the new home gradually—let them explore room by room.Walk dogs around the property on a leash to establish boundaries.Recognizing and Managing Pet Stress:Signs of anxiety include panting, excessive licking, trembling, hiding, and avoiding eye contact.Consider consulting a veterinarian if your pet struggles with anxiety.Chewing and licking help produce dopamine, which can naturally calm pets.Post-Move Adjustments:Provide consistency with feeding, bathroom breaks, and bedtime routines.Check fences and yards for any escape points before letting pets roam freely.Be patient—adjusting to a new home takes time for pets.Microchipping & Identification:Ensure pets are microchipped and wear updated ID tags in case they get lost.Register pets with the local municipality after moving.Final Thoughts:Sophia and John emphasize the importance of preparation, patience, and using available resources to ensure a smooth transition for pets. HAWS offers training, behavioral support, and other resources to assist pet owners in Waukesha County and beyond.Resources Mentioned:HAWS Website: haws.orgHAWS Main Line: (262) 542-8851🔔 Subscribe to Wisconsin Real Estate Today for more expert insights on real estate, community resources, and homeowner tips!

Episode 53 – How Strong Schools Impact Real Estate ValuesHosted by John Gscheidmeier with guest Dr. Ron RussDid you know that great schools can directly increase property values? Homebuyers and parents prioritize access to top-performing school districts, often paying a premium for homes in those areas. But what exactly makes a school district stand out, and how does it affect the housing market?In this episode, John Gscheidmeier sits down with Dr. Ron Russ, Superintendent of the Merton Community School District, to discuss the powerful connection between education quality, community development, and real estate values.Key Takeaways:✅ Academic Excellence & Rankings – How Merton Community Schools compare to 400+ districts across Wisconsin✅ Fiscal Responsibility – How the district outperforms expectations despite lower per-student spending than the state and county average✅ Real Estate Impact – Why homebuyers seek out great schools and how this drives up property values✅ Community Growth – How thriving schools contribute to stronger, more desirable neighborhoodsWhether you're a homebuyer, seller, or real estate professional, understanding how schools influence home values can give you an edge in the market. Don't miss this insightful discussion!🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 53📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.com

Episode 52 – Winter Home Inspections: Challenges & Hidden AdvantagesHosted by John Gscheidmeier with guest Dave KolesariWisconsin winters can be brutal—but did you know they can actually reveal hidden issues in a home inspection? Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures create unique challenges for buyers and inspectors, but they also expose certain problems that might go unnoticed in warmer months.In this episode, John Gscheidmeier sits down with Dave Kolesari, owner of Homesight, Inc., a veteran-owned inspection company, to discuss how winter conditions affect the home inspection process and what buyers need to know when purchasing a property in cold weather.Key Takeaways:✅ Inspecting Snow-Covered Roofs – How inspectors assess roof conditions when snow blocks direct observation✅ Assessing Grading & Flat Surfaces – Understanding the limitations of winter inspections and how professionals work around them✅ Winter Inspection Advantages – Surprising ways cold weather can uncover hidden issues that summer inspections might miss✅ Evaluating Additional Structures – How pools, ponds, sheds, and outbuildings are inspected during winter months✅ Pro Tips for Home Buyers – What buyers should ask inspectors and how to prepare for a winter home purchaseWith thousands of inspections under his belt, Dave Kolesari shares expert insights to help buyers feel confident in their decisions, no matter the season. If you're thinking about buying a home in Wisconsin during winter, this episode is a must-listen!🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 52📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.com

Episode 51 – 2024 Real Estate Market Recap & What’s Coming in 2025Hosted by John GscheidmeierThe real estate market has changed dramatically over the past year—but what does that mean for buyers, sellers, and agents moving forward? From shifting interest rates to evolving buyer behavior, 2024 redefined what "normal" looks like in real estate.In this episode, John Gscheidmeier breaks down the biggest market shifts of 2024 and offers key insights into what to expect in 2025. Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest, understanding these changes can help you stay ahead of the curve.Key Takeaways:✅ Market Evolution – How the definition of a "normal" real estate market has changed✅ Business Adaptations – How buyers, sellers, and agents have adjusted to new market conditions✅ Future Outlook for 2025 – Predictions on interest rates, inventory, home values, and buyer demand✅ Strategies for Success – How to navigate market changes whether you're buying, selling, or working in real estateIf you’re looking for expert insights to help you make smart real estate decisions in 2025, this episode is a must-listen!🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 51📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.comThis version keeps it engaging, easy to skim, and SEO-friendly while making it clear why the episode

Episode 50 – Understanding the Offer to Purchase (Part 2)Hosted by John Gscheidmeier with guest Monica YoungIn Part 1, we broke down the fundamentals of the Offer to Purchase—how it’s drafted, negotiated, and accepted. But what happens after an offer is signed? What key details can make or break a deal?In this second and final part of our series, John Gscheidmeier and Monica Young, Transaction Coordinator, bring the conversation full circle, covering the remaining steps, crucial contingencies, and final considerations before reaching the closing table.📢 Haven’t listened to Part 1 yet?Start there first! Catch up on Episode 49 here before diving into this episode.Key Takeaways:✅ What Happens After Acceptance? – The next steps once both parties sign the Offer to Purchase✅ The Final Contingencies – What buyers and sellers need to know about appraisals, financing, inspections, and more✅ Closing the Deal – How to ensure a smooth transaction and avoid costly delays✅ Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them – Why attention to detail is critical in the final stages✅ Agent Advice for Buyers & Sellers – How having an experienced professional protects your interestsThis episode wraps up everything you need to know about the Offer to Purchase, ensuring you’re fully prepared for one of the biggest financial transactions of your life.🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 50📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.com

Episode 49 – Understanding the Offer to Purchase (Part 1)Hosted by John Gscheidmeier with guest Monica YoungThe Offer to Purchase is one of the most important documents in a real estate transaction, yet many buyers and sellers don’t fully understand its impact. From negotiations to contingencies, this contract lays the foundation for a successful deal—or a costly mistake.In this episode, John Gscheidmeier and Monica Young, Transaction Coordinator, break down everything you need to know about the Offer to Purchase. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to help buyers, sellers, and agents navigate this crucial document with confidence.Key Takeaways:✅ What is an Offer to Purchase? – The role this document plays in every real estate transaction✅ Step-by-Step Process – How an offer is drafted, presented, accepted, rejected, or countered✅ What Happens After Acceptance? – How the offer becomes legally binding and what that means for both parties✅ Common Contingencies – Inspections, testing, financing, appraisal, document review, and what to watch for✅ Why Buyers & Sellers Must Understand This – Avoiding costly mistakes before reaching the closing tableWhether you're buying, selling, or an agent looking to sharpen your expertise, this episode will help you navigate the Offer to Purchase with confidence.🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 49📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.com

Episode 48 – Language Matters in Real Estate TransactionsHosted by John Gscheidmeier with guest Monica YoungIn real estate sales, the language used in contracts and negotiations can make or break a deal. Words like "Seller shall…" versus "Seller may…" might seem minor, but they carry vastly different legal and financial implications. Many agents overlook the impact of wording, potentially leading to confusion, disputes, or even legal issues down the road.In this episode, John Gscheidmeier sits down with Monica Young, Transaction Coordinator, to break down the importance of precise language in real estate documents. They explore how the right (or wrong) phrasing in offers, counteroffers, and contingencies can protect or jeopardize a transaction.Key Takeaways:✅ The legal significance of different contract wordings✅ How improper phrasing can lead to unintended obligations or loopholes✅ Real-life examples of deals affected by poor language choices✅ Why having an experienced agent matters in contract drafting✅ Best practices for protecting clients through clear and strategic languageWhether you're a buyer, seller, or agent, understanding these nuances can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth closing process. Tune in to learn how language matters more than you think in real estate!🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Wisconsin Real Estate Today - Episode 48📢 Stay Connected:🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 YouTube🔹 LinkedIn🌐 Explore More Real Estate Insights: www.soldwisconsin.com

New data recently released would indicate that the next few weeks in the market could be very volatile when it comes to not only interest rates, but the financial markets. In a series of lender releases, John extrapolates the data and provides a quick overview of what could be a very interesting few weeks in the real estate mortgage rates arena. This is a quick podcast episode - filled with some technical data - with another update expected next week. 

As eager Buyers start rejoicing at the news that the Feds are finally going to start initiating rate cuts, this episode covers what to expect and when to expect it. According to Reuters, "Federal Reserve policymakers on Friday signaled they are ready to kick off a series of interest rate cuts at the U.S. central bank's meeting in two weeks, noting a cooling in the labor market that could accelerate into something more dire in the absence of a policy shift."The reality is that if and when the Feds lower the interest rates, it won't have the exact effect on mortgage rates. If the Feds make a cut of, as expected, 25 basis points, it won't correlate to an equal cut in mortgage rates. In fact, and hopefully this isn't too disappointing for listeners, most of the anticipated rate cut has already been factored in to the current lowered mortgage rates. Mortgage rates work similarly to gasoline prices. Gas prices don't go up or down based on what happened that day, most of the time it is anticipatory in nature. If there's trouble ahead, or a shortage, gas prices start elevating. John explains further in this episode, so tune in and learn more. 

Do you know the difference between a 'pre-qualification" versus a "pre-approval"? Do you only look at lending & mortgage rates as one number rather than an individual plan that is specifically designed for each person?Do you know that there is a stark difference between lenders and pre-approvals? In this episode I am joined by Dustin Grenier of Epic Mortgage based in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Epic is a newer company in metro Milwaukee but the faster growing lender in our area. And for good reason - they are now lending in 11 states and offer a wide variety of programs from conventional loans, FHA, VA, WHEDA and more. Dustin and John discuss the importance of a pre-approval, and the importance of the lender being part of the realtor's team. They dive into the differences between lenders and how their pre-approval might be different from others - especially some bigger banks & credit unions. Let's face it, an experienced agent will give Seller's the "pros" and "cons" of each offer's pre-approval they receive. You'll walk away with some "best practices" and ideas that could get your offer accepted over others. 

Summer 2024 in Milwaukee is a bustling place and time! The real estate market isn't far off from that description over the last few months. The Republican National Convention was here and gone, Summerfest was a success, and State Fair is right around the corner. In this episode John unpacks the current metro market but these "stats" might surprise you. Comparing June, 2023, sales statistics to June, 2024, brought some good new to the market but not all good news. Believe it or not, we might be in a Buyer's window.  A "Buyer's window" I mean?  YES! Now might actually be the time - probably only for a few months - when a savvy Buyer makes the move to purchase a home while inventory is up, interest rates slowly starting to move, but more importantly, other Buyers haven't figure out NOW might just be the time. Much depends on what the Fed decides to do in the upcoming months, but consumer prices are still up, rent is up, gasoline is up, food is up...seems to be the story of the last few years in our economy. Buyers are getting squeezed by inflation and home prices aren't falling. However, some sellers are actively lowering their prices, which is good news for Buyers. Could this be a Buyer's window that only last for a few more months before many other Buyers begin flooding the market? Time will tell, but join John in the discussion to find out more.