General Community NewsReal Estate Trends February 21, 2025

3 Questions About Selling Your House You May Be Asking

Selling a house is one of the most significant financial and emotional decisions a homeowner can make, and unanswered questions about the market make this decision even harder. Sometimes, sellers’ concerns are based on misconceptions or outdated info, but can be quickly alleviated with a trustworthy agent’s help.

If your own uncertainty about the market is keeping you from selling your house, don’t wait to get the answers you need. Despite rising home prices and stiff demand, the 2025 real estate market is active, and recent reports prove it. If you’re uncertain about selling your house, here are the answers to three you may be asking.

 

1. Is It a Good Idea To Move Right Now? 

If you’re a homeowner itching to make a move, you might be waiting to sell because you don’t to take on a higher mortgage rate on your next house. Between interest rates, inflation, and the job market, it’s both wise and responsible to consider your own finances and the greater state of the economy. The good news is that moving may be a lot more feasible than you think, mainly thanks to how much your house has likely grown in value.

Consider if there’s anyone in your neighborhood who sold their house recently. If so, do you know what it sold for? Considering how much home values have increased since 2021, the final closing price may surprise you. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the typical homeowner has gained almost $150,000 in housing wealth in the last five years alone.

That’s a significant gain depending on your house’s initial value when you bought. When you decide to sell, the increased value of your home along with the equity you’ve built can make all the difference you need to lock down your new home.

 

2. Will I Be Able To Find a Home I Like? 

If finding the right house is stopping you from selling your house, it’s probably because you remember how hard it’s been to find a home these past few years due to low housing inventory. But thanks to positive inventory trends in today’s market, finding a good home is becoming easier.

According to a January 2025 report from from Realtor.com, home supply has increased nearly 25% since this time last year.

A blue and red graph showing the year over year percent change in housing inventory compared to pre pandemic levels.

 

Housing inventory still hasn’t risen to pre-pandemic levels, but it’s improved significantly in the past year since January 2024. Even better, real estate experts say the supply of homes will continue to grow another 10 to 15% in 2025. More houses on the market means more options for you as a buyer, and a better chance of finding the perfect home.

 

3. Will My House Sell?

Lastly, if you’re worried that buyers aren’t buying thanks to home prices and mortgage rates, here’s some encouraging info. While last year’s home sales were still below normal, about 4.24 million homes sold according to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Experts expect that number to rise in 2025, but here’s how 2024’s break down over time:

  • 4.24 million homes ÷ 365 days in a year = 11,616 homes sold each day.
  • 11,616 homes ÷ 24 hours in a day = 484 homes sold per hour.
  • 484 homes ÷ 60 minutes = 8 homes sold every minute.

To apply some perspective: in the minute it took you to read this paragraph, 8 homes sold last year. And homes are expected to sell even faster in 2025, so rest assured that buyers are still buying. The market may not be back to pre-pandemic levels, but there are thousands of active buyers looking for homes like yours.

 

Conclusion

Selling your house is a major decision just like buying, but there are plenty of reasons for optimism in 2025. Home inventory is increasing, buyers are becoming more active, and your current home is likely worth more than you think.

Are you thinking of selling but have unanswered questions holding you back? Reach out today and we’ll connect you with an expert local real estate agent who can help.

Wisconsin Community News September 26, 2024

How to Get a Real Estate License in Wisconsin

Are you considering embarking  on a career in real estate sales in the Dairy State? First, you’ll need to become officially licensed.

A real estate license is your ticket to a rewarding realty career, opening doors to numerous opportunities. But how do you get a real estate license in Wisconsin?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to get a real estate license in Wisconsin. From meeting eligibility criteria to passing the Wisconsin real estate license exam, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started.

 

Understanding Wisconsin Real Estate Licensing Requirements

Before getting started, make sure you understand the basic licensing requirements. In Wisconsin, these are set by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

The requirements include specific education, exam, and application steps. These ensure you’re well-prepared for your real estate career.

Here’s a quick overview of the requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Complete 72 hours of pre-licensing education
  • Pass the Wisconsin real estate license exam
  • Apply for the license with DSPS
  • Find a sponsoring broker

 

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

The first step is to ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a real estate license in Wisconsin.

Also, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. This is a standard requirement across most states.

 

Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education

Next, you need to complete the required pre-licensing education. This is a 72-hour course approved by the DSPS and administered at a board-approved institution.

The course covers key topics like real estate law, contract law, and principles of real estate. It prepares you for the Wisconsin real estate license exam. We offer our own board-approved licensing course taken totally online and available at a discounted rate.

Upon completion of an approved course, you will receive a certificate. This is proof of your successful completion of your pre-licensing education and must be provided to DSPS when applying for your license.

Alternatively, you can also complete 10 academic semester hour credits in real estate or real estate-related law at an approved institution of higher learning.

 

Step 3: Register for the Wisconsin Real Estate License Exam

After completing your pre-licensing education, it’s time to register for the exam. You can do this through Pearson VUE, which the state has partnered with to administer real estate exams.

The Wisconsin exam consists of two parts: the national portion and the state-specific portion. Both parts must be passed to qualify for a license.

Remember to schedule your exam date well in advance to secure your preferred timeslot.

 

Step 4: Study and Pass the Wisconsin Real Estate License Test

The Wisconsin real estate license test is a comprehensive exam. It covers a wide range of topics, from property laws to ethical guidelines.

To pass, you’ll need to study diligently. Consider using study guides and practice tests to prepare. These resources can help you understand the exam format and the types of questions you’ll face.

Remember, passing the exam is a crucial step in getting your real estate license in Wisconsin. So, take your preparation seriously.

 

Step 5: Apply for Your Real Estate License

Once you pass the exam, it’s time to apply for your license. You’ll need to submit an application to the Wisconsin DSPS online LicensE platform.

The application process involves providing proof of your education and exam results. You’ll also need to pay the required fees.

Remember, the DSPS will review your application before issuing your real estate license, so ensure that all your information is complete and accurate.

 

Step 6: Choose a Sponsoring Broker

After getting your license, you’ll need to find a sponsoring broker. This broker will guide you through your early career stages.

Choose a broker who aligns with your career goals. They should offer support, training, and a conducive work environment.

If you’re interesting in joining one of the largest real estate brokerages in Wisconsin, consider earning your license with us at CENTURY 21 Affiliated.

 

Maintaining Your Real Estate License in Wisconsin

Once you have your license, it’s crucial to keep it active. This involves meeting certain requirements set by the DSPS and reapplying every two years.

These include:

  • Completing approved continuing education courses.
  • Renewing your license every two years or on every even-numbered year by December 14.
  • Staying updated on changes in real estate laws and regulations.