Smaller communities such as Fox River Valley, West Bend and Black River Falls, Wisconsin are showing slower home sales now that summer is halfway over.

Fox River

"Located in the heart of the Midwest, Fox River Valley offers small-town friendliness with big city amenities," says Realtor Cindy Peters. "The Fox River Valley offers a great quality of life with outstanding schools, a regional shopping mall, a performing arts center featuring Broadway theater, and the Green Bay Packers. Yet it is within easy driving distance of Minneapolis/St.Paul, Milwaukee, and Chicago.

About the market, Peters says, "Market activity for the first half of 2004 mirrors the same time period last year. January - May 2004 showed stronger sales with activity falling off in June. June 2004 saw the number of sales lowered by 17 percent from June 2003. Interest rates are expected to remain steady until the fourth quarter. This makes it an excellent time to purchase the home of your dreams."

West Bend

"West Bend is a desirable area 45 minutes Northwest of Milwaukee," says Realtor Kathleen Peterson. "The average priced home is $181,235. The average sold home is $176,456. West Bend has attracted first-time homebuyers with its affordable housing, although new housing developments are being created - bringing the average home price up. The market has been very hot here for months, but has slowed a bit over the past few weeks."

Black River Falls

"Interest rates have dropped to the lowest levels in 41 years," says Realtor Steve Stark, "There is a surge in buyer activity this year. There seems to be a lack of inventory on the market to show these buyers. More listings of homes are needed. This does not automatically make it a seller's market. Buyers seem to be patient with making a decision on purchasing a home. They will wait to find their dream home. A recovery in the bond market in addition to positive economic reports will probably result in an increase in interest rates by the end of 2004. Now is the best time to sell and make a purchase. Many buyers are willing to compete for quality homes which should result in top dollar for your home. Interest rates are probably the lowest that we will see this year which makes now an excellent time to purchase or build a new home."

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Published: July 22, 2004

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