Hardy Team Real Estate’s Blog

  We’ve all been there. You walk into a house, and the first thing you see is floor-to-ceiling plaid wallpaper or neon green shag carpet. It’s easy to want to turn around and walk right back out. But here is a little secret from us at The Hardy Team:   the "ugliest" houses often have the best potential. When you learn to look past the surface, you can find a total "diamond in the rough" at a much better price. Here is how you can tell if a house has "good bones" or if it’s a pass. 1. The Layout Test Cosmetic fixes like paint and paper are easy. Moving walls? Not so much. What to look for:  Does the house flow well? Is the kitchen near the dining area? Are the bedrooms a decent size? The "Bone" Factor:  If the floor plan works for your life, everything else is just a weekend project. 2. Check the "Feet" (The Foundation) A house is only as good as what it stands on. What to look for:  Walk into the basement. Are the walls straight? Do you...

  Welcome to another Tuesday’s Tip! We are officially in the "home stretch" of February, and while most of us are dreaming of spring, there are a few important dates on the calendar that Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners—especially my fellow real estate investors and landlords—need to keep on their radar. Property taxes aren't just a once-a-year December headache. In fact, right now is a critical window for making sure you aren't leaving money on the table for 2026. 1. The March 2nd Exemption Deadline If you are looking to request a  new property tax exemption  for 2026 (for example, if you are a non-profit or a low-income housing provider), the deadline is right around the corner. Normally this falls on March 1st, but since that’s a Sunday this year, the state has pushed the deadline to  Monday, March 2nd . Why it matters:  If you miss this date, you could be stuck paying the full tax rate for the entire year, even if you qualify for a break. 2. Prepare for the...