Water and recreation are important to buyers who want to live or buy vacation property in Wisconsin towns like Black River Falls, Delavan, and Racine, say Realtors.

Black River Falls

"Interest rates have dropped to the lowest levels in 41 years!" exclaims 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."

But, he cautions, this does not automatically make it a seller's market. "Buyers seem to be patient with making a decision on purchasing a home," says Stark. "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."

Delavan, Delavan Lake

"Delavan Lake is located in Delavan Township," says Realtor Bob Webster. "It's located seven miles west of Lake Geneva."

About the market, Webster says, "There are currently 34 active listings ranging from $99,900 to $2,750,000 with an average asking price of $707,038. Year-to-date, there have been 49 sales with a dollar volume of over $15,072,700, a low sale price of $45,100, a high of $2,250,000 and an average sale price of $307,606. Lakefront homes in this area can range anywhere from $300,000 to over $2,000,000. The lower priced lakefront homes will typically be in the inlet and outlet areas, not on the main body of the lake, with private piers and the ability to dock a boat, but it's not considered swimmable frontage. Delavan Lake is approximately 2,072 acres."

Racine

"Racine County is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, approximately 65 miles north of Chicago and 25 miles south of Milwaukee," explain Realtors Ron and Diana Dahlberg. "It is bordered by Kenosha (south), and Waukesha (north), and Walworth (west) Counties. Racine County population boasts 185,000 while the city holds approximately 86,000."

They say, "Neighborhoods throughout the county are teeming with young professionals, growing families, and firmly-planted senior citizens. Large stretches of farmland and a rural lifestyle are also easily found in Racine County. Cities and towns in Racine County offer affordable and extravagant housing options, including single or multifamily homes, apartments, condominiums and farms. Hugging the shoreline of Lake Michigan is an eclectic array of architecture and neighborhoods.

"The north shore is known for its historic Wind Point Lighthouse," they explain. "Built in 1880 and fully automated in 1964, the lighthouse is a beacon of recognition for boaters, as it is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in operation on Lake Michigan. The near-north side area, on the bank of the Root River, is scattered with time-honored churches and cream city brick homes. The revitalized downtown area boasts buildings classified as historical landmarks through new construction. It is the place where the traditions from the days of yore unite with the hustle and bustle of today's urban offerings. Business owners and downtown residents agree that this is the place to be!"

Click here to view current Market Conditions in your location.

Published: December 20, 2004

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.