Margaret Canfield

As a Realtor in Lake Geneva, the Geneva Lake waters are of prime importance to our real estate values. These new changes attempt to protect our water quality, wildlife, and our natural beauty by placing stricter standards on new development and construction near our waterways. No.2 Unlimited repair and maintenance of ALL nonconforming structures is allowed . This new regulation wipes out the old rule where a homeowner was only allowed to repair and expand a nonconforming structure to 50% of it assessed value during the life of the property. This meant that property owners couldn’t ‘do routine maintenance or minor expansions. The new rule allows for repair, maintenance and no limits on the amount or value of the maintenance or repair. This new change is a welcome one because in some cases those nonconforming structures may have been boat houses. Note: The new regs. do apply to all land within 1,000 feet of a lake, pond, flowage and land within 300 feet of a stream or river. Yes, even if your building is separated from water by land, buildings or a roadway the rules apply.

For more information: Dept. of Natural Resources – Shoreland Zoning Regs.

As a Realtor in Lake Geneva, the Geneva Lake waters are of prime importance to our real estate values. These new changes attempt to protect our water quality, wildlife, and our natural beauty by placing stricter standards on new development and construction near our waterways.

The new laws are minimum standards and each County will have the authority to adopt stricter standards. While I am not aware of Walworth County’s possible changes I believe that this county will, over time, add to the restrictions to protect all of our rivers, streams, lakes and the watershed.

No.1 New impervious surface standards will limit the size of new homes and remodeling projects within 300 feet of the water.

New construction and existing homes who are looking to expand within 300 feet of the water, no more than 15% of the lot can be covered by an impervious surface. This will include blacktop, sidewalks, patios, and any surface that will not allow water to infiltrate the ground. This impervious surface limit can be raised to 30% of the lot if the property owner meets the mitigation standards established by the county. This percentage is triggered when an existing home is expanded or replaced.

If you are in an existing home that exceeds the 15% or 30% impervious surface standard, your home will be grandfathered.

Note: While many believe that these zoning regs apply only to property adjacent to waterways, not so! The regs apply to all land within 1,000 feet of a lake, pond, flowage and land within 300 feet of a stream or river. Yes, even if your building is separated from water by land, buildings or a roadway, these new rules do apply.

No: 2 will follow tomorrow.

For more information:

Dept. of Natural Resources – Shoreland Zoning Regs.

Are you considering a day shopping trip and wondering where to go? Consider downtown Lake Geneva! A recent story explains that our retail center is doing well and vacancies are down while our holiday lights and trim have just gone up. Coming up for the day is easy, lunch has many options at several places downtown or stop and have wine while overlooking the lake. Parking for two hours is free and then, yes you will have to feed the meter. A little less stress with some valuable finds will place you in the holiday mood.
CLICK HERE: Lake Geneva Shopping
CLICK HERE: Lake Geneva Downtown

Custom home in Geneva National on the Palmer 14 at Geneva National, Lake Geneva. Hammersmith LLC builder’s primary residence is now for sale. High end finishes and features along with a walk out lower level. This home has two first floor master suites, dining room, hearth room adjacent to the kitchen that allows for fabulous entertaining space. Attached indoor pool area with grill space and eating is another addition to your living on the golf course. Grill inside or out. More information is available for 1521 Geneva Club Drive, Geneva National, Lake Geneva, WI.

Call or email Margaret Canfield, Realtor. Lake Geneva.

One of my clients successfully closed on a foreclosed condo. Here are 12 points if you are looking to do the same.
1) Get prequalified for your loan or have a letter stating proof of funds and have it in hand. That letter has to be attached to your Offer to Purchase.
2) Earnest money will have to be in the form of a cashiers check. Make time to get to your bank.
3) Sign your name exactly and initial exactly where your Agent tells you to. She/he has a page of instructions.
4) Be prepared to sign that the Seller – Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac is responsible for nothing. You are soley the risk holder.
5) Let the ‘Seller’ choose the Title company – it will save you money. When it comes to closing you will then choose a local Title company to witness the signing of the documents.
6) You are a number at a Title company that is either on the east coast or in the south. You will be required to respond within 24 hours and then wait 2 weeks for a reply. This will continue.
7) Plan on 90 days from beginning to end. At least.
8) Errors will be returned. Delays will occur.
9) Dont’ knock your Agent. She/he is getting 4 different answers, from 4 different people and has asked the same question from each.
10.) Settle on a closing date that you can live with. If you are settled on a date and then have to change it all of the closing documents have to be changed. This will involve anyone who has touched your file for 90 days, then you can add in you, your mover, your landlord, your family, and your job.
11.) You will sign at the closing table prior to Fannie May and Freddie Mac – the Sellers. After you sign your package will be sent back to the Seller’s selected Title company for signatures.
12.) The local title company, your agent and your banker have pages of instructions to follow and everyone does the best they can to close the deal!

Last note! You will get the keys at the closing table and walk away with ownership. Whew.