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📍 5663 N Consaul Ave | Whitefish Bay, WI 🛏️ - 3 Bedrooms 🚿 - 1 bath This adorable single-family home is full of charm, comfort, and convenience — all just a short walk to Sendik's, coffee shops, boutiques, and the heart of Whitefish Bay! ✨ Features You'll Love: Updated Eat-In Kitchen  with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, garbage disposal, and built-in desk/workspace Newly Refinished Hardwood Floors  throughout Central Air  for year-round comfort Washer & Dryer  included Cable-ready  and move-in ready 🚗 Parking & Storage: 2-Car Detached Garage Huge Basement for additional storage 🌳 Outdoor Perks: Stone Patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining Generous backyard space Lawn Care Included! This home blends cozy living with an unbeatable location in one of the North Shore’s most desirable neighborhoods. 📅 Available:  July 15 📜 Lease:  1-year minimum 🏠💲 $2,600 Interested in scheduling a showing? Reach out today to: Katie Muellenbach Katie.Muellenbach@compass.com 414-807-9039 This one won’t last long!

Let’s just start here — real estate is not  for the faint of heart. It’s a business built on emotions, expectations, and unpredictability. You’re on call 24/7, balancing negotiations, inspections, delayed appraisals, cracked foundations, and sometimes cracked client relationships. You’re expected to be part therapist, part magician, part bulldog, and somehow keep smiling through it all. And while we post the closings and the champagne moments (hey, we’ve earned those!), there’s a whole other side we don’t talk about nearly enough — the mental load  that comes with being a Realtor. So let’s talk about it. The Pressure Is Real Here’s what most people don’t see: The deals that fall apart days before closing The client who ghosts after you’ve shown them 19 homes The comparison game we play every time someone posts another "Just Sold" The uncertainty of income in an industry with no safety net The emotional highs and lows we absorb from clients who are buying or selling during huge  life changes This business can mess with your head if you’re not intentional about protecting it. “I’m Fine” Isn’t a Strategy Saying "I’m fine" while your inbox explodes, your clients are spiraling, and your calendar looks like a game of Tetris is... well, not sustainable. Realtors are wired to help everyone else — we jump in, we fix things, we carry the weight — but rarely do we check in with ourselves. Let me be really clear: Taking care of your mental health is not weakness. It’s wisdom. What You Can Actually Do Here are a few ways to make mental wellness part of your business plan: 1. Set Boundaries (and actually honor them) Your phone does not need to buzz at midnight. You’re not an ER doc. Set your hours — post them in your email signature, your voicemail, even your auto-text — and hold to them. 2. Build a Support Network You need people in your life who get it . Whether it’s your managing broker, your team, your fellow agents, or a therapist — create a circle where you can be honest, vent, and get grounded again. 3. Practice Saying No Every “yes” to something that drains you is a “no” to something that restores you. You don’t need to take every client. You don’t need to work every Sunday. You can say no — and still be wildly successful. 4. Move Your Body No, really. Movement is magic. Go for a walk. Ride your bike. Dance in your kitchen between showings. Your brain will thank you. 5. Unfollow to Unwind If scrolling social media makes you feel like you’re never doing enough, unfollow. Mute. Step back. Remember: no one posts the tough stuff. Normalize the Conversation In our office, we talk a lot about success — closings, listings, wins. But let’s also normalize talking about burnout, boundaries, and asking for help. If you’re struggling, you are not  alone. You’re not broken. You’re not failing. You’re human — and this job is tough. Let’s take care of our clients, yes — but let’s start by taking care of ourselves.

" I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone. It’s not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel all alone. ” – Robin Williams This poignant quote by Robin Williams resonates deeply, especially in times of significant change, much like what we're currently experiencing in our industry. As we face the recent updates from the NAR settlement, the updated Wisconsin forms, and the evolving requirements for Buyer's agency, it's crucial that we support each other and move forward together, ensuring no one feels isolated or overwhelmed. Understanding the Changes: NAR Settlement Updates: Recent changes stemming from the NAR settlement have redefined some of the foundational aspects of how we conduct business. Key among these changes is how we list and communicate offers of compensation. Each of us needs to stay informed and adapt our practices to remain compliant while still advocating effectively for our clients. New Wisconsin Forms: Wisconsin has updated forms that are designed to abide by the terms of the settlement and enhance transparency. These forms are not just paperwork; they are tools that can help facilitate better communication between buyers, sellers, and agents. Understand and familiarize yourself with the changes as they will play a crucial role in your transactions. Buyer’s Agency Requirement: A critical update affects how we represent buyers. The requirement to have a signed buyer's agency agreement before showing homes emphasizes the need to formalize relationships early in the client journey. This step ensures that both the buyer’s and agent’s interests are protected throughout the home-buying process. Why These Changes Matter: Embracing these changes isn't just about compliance—it's about improving our profession and the service we provide to our clients. By adapting to these new regulations and requirements, we not only comply with the law but also enhance our integrity and commitment to our clients. Staying Connected: As we navigate these changes, let’s remember Robin Williams' words. My goal in our offices is that no one feels alone. Please reach out for support, ask questions, share insights, and stay connected. Our strength lies in our unity and our willingness to support each other through learning and adaptation. Moving Forward: These are unique and challenging times, but they are also times filled with opportunities for growth and improvement. Approach the changes with a positive mindset and a willingness to learn. Together, we can turn these challenges into stepping stones for success, ensuring we continue to provide unmatched service to our clients. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Patti, Kevin, Kel, and I are here for you. Our doors are always open for discussions, training sessions, and any support you need. Let’s embrace these changes together and continue positively impacting the lives of those we serve.

As we face the biggest industry changes in over a century, it's natural to feel anxious about the adjustments ahead. Remember, we're all in this together, and these changes are happening nationwide. This might sound a bit dramatic and may show my age, but let me share a personal anecdote. When I was in high school, Wisconsin passed a law requiring everyone to wear seat belts. Like many others, my grandfather was initially resistant, believing it was unnecessary government overreach. Shortly after the seat belt law was implemented, there was an increase in hospitalizations due to injuries like broken ribs attributed to seat belts. Many people, including my grandfather, were outraged, citing these injuries as proof that the seat belt law was flawed. However, I later learned that these injuries actually replaced what would have otherwise been fatalities. Seat belt usage ultimately led to a 45% reduction in deaths from car accidents. I don't expect the upcoming changes in our industry to be as dramatic as the seat belt law—no one will suffer physical injuries from these changes. However, the initial resistance and adaptation period might feel similar. Just as with the seat belt law, the perceived inconvenience or challenge will likely be less significant than anticipated, especially in Wisconsin, where the practical aspects of how we conduct business won't drastically change.

I want to address a topic that doesn’t get as much attention as it should: loneliness. While we focus on closing deals, meeting clients, and achieving our targets, it's crucial to acknowledge the emotional landscape of our profession. Real estate sales can be exhilarating, but it can also be isolating. I want to share some insights and tips to help you navigate these feelings and foster a sense of community within our team. Understanding Loneliness in Real Estate Real estate is unique in that it blends independence with interpersonal interactions. While we spend much of our time meeting clients and showing properties, the behind-the-scenes work can be solitary. Long hours, the pressure to succeed, and the competition can make us feel disconnected. It’s important to remember that feeling lonely in this profession is not uncommon, and you’re not alone in this experience. Building Connections Team Meetings and Social Events : Attend our office meetings and social events regularly. These gatherings are not just about discussing sales strategies; they are opportunities to connect with your colleagues, share experiences, and support each other. We are a team, and fostering camaraderie is essential. Mentorship and Buddy System : Pair up with a mentor or a buddy within the office. Having someone to share your challenges and triumphs with can make a significant difference. Mentorship not only provides guidance but also creates a sense of belonging. Client Relationships : Building strong relationships with your clients can also alleviate loneliness. Genuine connections with clients can lead to long-term relationships, making your work more fulfilling and less isolating. Self-Care Strategies Routine and Structure : Establish a daily routine that includes breaks and time for self-care. Whether it’s a walk, a hobby, or just some quiet time, take care of your mental health. Professional Development : Engage in continuous learning and development. Attend workshops, webinars, and training sessions. Not only will this enhance your skills, but it will also provide opportunities to interact with other professionals. Seek Support : Don’t hesitate to seek support if you feel overwhelmed. Whether talking to a colleague, a coach, or a mental health professional, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Creating a Supportive Environment My goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment. I encourage open communication, and I’m always here to listen. Let’s work together to make our workplace a space where everyone feels connected and valued. Real estate sales can be a lonely profession, but it doesn’t have to be. By building connections, practicing self-care, and supporting each other, we can overcome the isolation that sometimes comes with this job. Remember, we are stronger together. Make it a priority to reach out, connect, and support one another. Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Let’s continue to thrive, both professionally and personally.

My neighbors recently decided that suburban life wasn't for them. They had been reaching out to me for advice about selling their home. Despite several conversations, they couldn't get past the commission. I learned today that they decided to move forward trying to sell the house themselves. A part of me feels like I failed as a Realtor. Another part of me understands that some people think selling a house in today's market is simple. For years, television shows have made selling a house look easy. As a result, some people believe they can handle it independently, assuming all they need is a real estate attorney for the paperwork. The real estate industry accounted for $4.9 trillion or 17.8% of the US gross domestic product in 2023. From the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers (National Association of REALTORS®), For Sale By Owners (FSBOs) accounted for 7% of home sales in 2023. The typical FSBO home sold for $310,000 compared to $405,000 for agent-assisted home sales. This data highlights the comprehensive value a Realtor brings to the table, far beyond just drafting paperwork. Here are the key benefits that demonstrate why a licensed Realtor is indispensable in the home-selling process: 1. Expert Market Knowledge A Realtor's expertise goes far beyond basic paperwork. We have an in-depth understanding of market trends, local neighborhoods, and pricing strategies. This knowledge allows us to price homes accurately, ensuring sellers receive the best possible return on their investment. Attorneys, while skilled in legal matters, do not possess this specialized market insight. 2. Comprehensive Marketing Strategies Selling a home requires more than just listing it on a website. Realtors employ sophisticated marketing techniques, including professional photography, virtual tours, and extensive online and offline advertising. We leverage our professional networks to reach potential buyers, hosting open houses and private showings to generate interest. An attorney's role does not encompass these critical marketing efforts. 3. Skilled Negotiation Negotiating a real estate deal requires tact, experience, and a thorough understanding of the market. Realtors are trained negotiators who advocate for the best interests of their clients. We navigate offers, counteroffers, and contingencies with skill, aimed to secure the best possible terms. Attorneys may handle legal negotiations, but they do not specialize in real estate bargaining nuances. 4. Streamlined Process Management The home-selling process involves numerous steps, from initial listing to closing. Realtors manage this process seamlessly, coordinating inspections, appraisals, and repairs. We ensure all deadlines are met and keep all parties informed, reducing the risk of delays or complications. Attorneys focus on the legal aspects, but Realtors oversee the entire transaction. 5. Extensive Network and Resources Realtors have access to a vast network of professionals, including inspectors, contractors, stagers, and photographers. We can recommend trusted service providers to prepare the home for sale and address any issues that arise. This network is invaluable in ensuring a smooth and efficient sales process. Attorneys do not typically offer these connections. 6. Legal and Ethical Standards Licensed Realtors adhere to strict ethical standards and are bound by state and national regulations. We are accountable to professional boards and our clients, ensuring transparency and honesty in all transactions. While attorneys are also held to ethical standards, they do not provide the same comprehensive service that Realtors offer in real estate transactions. 7. Emotional Support and Guidance Selling a home is often an emotional experience. Realtors provide essential support and guidance, helping clients navigate the stress and uncertainty of the process. We offer a personal touch, understanding the emotional stakes involved and providing reassurance and advice. Attorneys, while supportive in legal matters, do not typically offer this level of personal engagement. While attorneys play a vital role in the legal aspects of real estate transactions, the value of a licensed Realtor cannot be overstated. From expert market knowledge and skilled negotiation to comprehensive process management and emotional support, Realtors offer a holistic service that ensures a successful and smooth home-selling experience. Let's continue to emphasize these advantages to our clients, helping them see the full spectrum of benefits that come with choosing a licensed Realtor.

As we move into the summer months, we often find that the market slows down a bit. However, this period offers a golden opportunity to shift our focus and employ strategies that add value to our clients and generate new business. Here are some ideas to keep the momentum going: 1. Host Community Events Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities. Organize neighborhood events like BBQs, block parties, or local farmer's market tours. These events not only engage the community but also position you as a local expert and a central figure in the neighborhood. 2. Leverage Social Media Use social media platforms to share summer-related content. Post tips for home maintenance, fun local activities, or summer staging ideas. Engage your audience with interactive content like polls, live Q&A sessions, or virtual home tours. 3. Enhance Your Online Presence Take advantage of the slower pace to update your website and online profiles. Ensure your listings are up-to-date with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions. Consider creating a blog or vlog about local real estate trends, market insights, and success stories. 4. Offer Seasonal Promotions Consider offering special promotions for summer. This could include discounts on listing fees, free home evaluations, or a complimentary consultation for potential buyers. Promote these offers through email marketing and social media to attract attention. 5. Expand Your Network Summer is a great time to attend local events, join new groups, or participate in community activities. Networking can lead to new business opportunities and referrals. Remember, people do business with those they know, like, and trust. 6. Client Appreciation Initiatives Show your appreciation for past clients with personalized gestures. Send thank-you notes, summer-themed gifts, or host an exclusive client appreciation event. Happy clients are more likely to refer you to friends and family. 7. Focus on Education Use this time to invest in your professional development. Attend workshops, webinars, or courses to enhance your skills. Share your new knowledge with clients through newsletters or social media posts, positioning yourself as a knowledgeable resource. 8. Offer Virtual Tours and Consultations With the summer months bringing vacations and travel, offer virtual tours and consultations for clients who may not be in town. This flexibility can set you apart from competitors and cater to clients' convenience. 9. Collaborate with Local Businesses Partner with local businesses to create mutually beneficial relationships. For example, team up with home improvement stores, landscapers, or interior designers to offer bundled services or special deals. Cross-promotion can help you reach a wider audience. 10. Stay Top of Mind Keep in touch with your sphere of influence. Regularly update your contacts with market updates, new listings, and useful information. Consistent communication keeps you top of mind when they or someone they know needs real estate services. By implementing these strategies, you can turn the slower summer months into a productive and profitable time. Remember, it's all about adding value, staying engaged with your clients and community, and continuously seeking new opportunities. Make this summer a successful one!

I had the privilege of attending the Houseworks Collective team meeting yesterday. Charlie Hutchinson kicked things off with a fun icebreaker, asking: “What was your favorite article of clothing you had growing up?” For me, the answer came to mind immediately. It was surprising because it had been decades since I had really thought about it. My favorite? Moon Boots. They were like Uggs for kids before Uggs were a thing, and we only wore them outside. Why Moon Boots Matter So, why am I writing about Moon Boots? It got me thinking about value, comfort, trust, and what the Danish people refer to as hygge—the feeling of coziness and warmth. As Realtors, how do we bring that feeling to our clients? How do we ensure that when someone thinks about real estate, your name pops into their heads, just like my Moon Boots popped into mine? Creating Value and Comfort 1. Building Trust: Trust is the foundation of our relationships with clients. From the first meeting to closing the deal, every interaction should reinforce that we are reliable, knowledgeable, and have their best interests at heart. 2. Providing Comfort: Buying or selling a home can be a stressful process. Our role is to make it as smooth and comfortable as possible. This means being available, communicative, and empathetic to our clients' needs and concerns. 3. Offering Value: We must go beyond the basics to offer real value. This can be through expert market insights, personalized service, or going the extra mile in negotiations. Our clients should feel that choosing us was one of their best decisions. Creating Hygge for Our Clients Hygge isn’t just a trend; it’s a way of life that focuses on creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. Here's how we can bring that into our real estate practice: Personal Touch: Small gestures like a handwritten note, a thoughtful gift, or simply remembering significant details about our clients can make a big difference. Comfortable Communication: Ensure that every interaction, whether it’s through email, phone calls, or in-person meetings, feels comfortable and positive. Supportive Environment: Be the supportive guide they need through every step of their real estate journey, making them feel secure and taken care of. Bringing It All Together The goal is for clients to think of us as their go-to real estate experts, just as fondly and instinctively as I thought of my boots. By focusing on building trust, providing comfort, and offering genuine value, we can create lasting relationships and a positive impact on their lives. Let's strive to be that source of comfort and trust for our clients. Just as those Moon Boots brought me joy and warmth, let's bring the same feelings to those we serve.

$274,500. That is the total gross commission income I’ve earned from one client I met because of a residential rental I had listed. Since they rented that $3,500/month condo, they have purchased and sold almost $13,000,000 in real estate with me. I would have never met them had I not listed that condo for rent. My real estate career began in residential rentals. In 2005, I founded Wisconsin’s first residential rental brokerage, which I successfully ran until selling the business in 2015. Reflecting on my experience, I could write an entire blog about the pros and cons of rentals. However, the two main advantages stand out clearly: quick turnaround and the opportunity to fill your pipeline with future buyers and sellers. Rentals offer a fast-paced environment. Properties move quickly, leading to rapid commissions. This quick turnaround is one of the most appealing aspects of the rental market. Additionally, working in rentals allows you to build relationships with potential future clients. Many renters eventually become buyers, and establishing a connection early on can lead to substantial sales down the line. However, the rental market comes with its challenges. It often feels like a hamster wheel, involving a lot of running around. Prospective tenants tend to ghost, not respond, or set up and confirm appointments only to not show up. This happens much more frequently than with buyers, making the process sometimes frustrating and unpredictable. More importantly, fair housing concerns are always at the forefront of my mind. Ensuring that owners and landlords comply with fair housing laws and do not unjustly turn down well-qualified tenants is critical. This adds another layer of responsibility and vigilance to the rental process. Despite these challenges, what I truly enjoy about real estate is the diversity of niches available. The industry offers the flexibility to focus on areas that resonate most with you. For me, rentals have been a great way to earn money quickly and build a network of future buyers and sellers. Every successful relationship I have built started somewhere, and often that beginning was with a simple rental listing. The story of my $274,500 commission client underscores the potential long-term value of working in rentals. Each rental transaction is an opportunity to forge new connections and lay the groundwork for future success. So, if you’re just starting in real estate or looking to diversify your focus, consider the rental market. It’s fast-paced, often rewarding, and a fantastic way to meet clients who might one day lead you to million-dollar sales.

In the past week, I've spoken to many of you in Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, and Madison. A common theme has emerged: with this year's spring market, many of you have been working hard and showing incredible dedication to your clients. However, there seems to be a looming sense of burnout. This has led me to reflect on a powerful quote by Simon Sinek: "Working hard for something we do not care about is called stress; working hard for something we love is called passion." Our work in real estate is undoubtedly driven by passion. We care deeply about our clients, our team, and our success. However, even when we are passionate, the demands of our profession can sometimes push us to the edge. I want to address this and emphasize the importance of balance and well-being. Recognize the Signs of Burnout It’s crucial to recognize when you are reaching the brink of burnout. Symptoms include persistent fatigue, loss of motivation, irritability, and a decrease in performance. If you’re experiencing these, please reach out—whether it’s to me, a colleague, or a professional. Take Time for Yourself Remember, taking breaks is not a sign of weakness, but one of wisdom. Schedule regular time for activities that rejuvenate you—whether it’s spending time with loved ones, engaging in a hobby, or simply taking a walk. Your mental and physical health is a priority. Set Boundaries While our clients are important, so are your boundaries. Communicate clearly with clients about your availability and stick to those boundaries. This helps manage expectations and ensures you have time to recharge. Leverage Team Support We have an incredible team. Don’t hesitate to lean on each other for support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, delegate tasks when possible or seek advice from a colleague who might have a different perspective. Passion with Purpose Reignite your passion by reminding yourself why you chose real estate as your career. Reflect on the successes and the clients you’ve helped. Sometimes, revisiting your purpose can provide a much-needed boost of motivation and clarity. Open Communication If you’re feeling stressed or burned out, please don’t keep it to yourself. Together, we can find solutions and support each other through challenging times. Our passion for real estate drives us, but it's equally important to ensure that this passion is sustainable. Let’s commit to working hard, but also to taking care of ourselves and each other. Let’s support one another and create an environment where we can thrive both personally and professionally.

It's not what you do once in a while that matters—it's what you do every day. This principle is crucial to our success in real estate, and it’s something I’ve been reflecting on a lot lately. I recently reread the book Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven. It's an easy and inspiring read that offers powerful insights. The back cover of the book sums it up perfectly: "If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed. If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride and encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that the little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right." This message resonates deeply with our work. Whether it’s making your bed, making those crucial phone calls, or following up with potential leads, the little things we do consistently shape our success. Let me share a story about someone who embodies this principle. I’ve never been a great ‘cold caller,’ but I always admired Charlie Hutchinson. In his earlier years in the business, Charlie would time block for cold calling and stick to his schedule. One time in 2015, Charlie and I went to a conference in Minneapolis and carpooled together. We stopped for lunch, but Charlie stayed in the car to make his calls. Want to know how Charlie built a successful team? Dedication and consistency. Consistency in making those calls and staying connected with your sphere is essential. I’ve seen firsthand how dedicating time to these tasks can turn a bad day around and lead to new opportunities. Even on the toughest days, picking up the phone and reaching out can make all the difference. So, if you're having a bad day, or even just an average one, remember that consistency is key. Start with small, manageable tasks, and let them build momentum. Each call, each follow-up, each connection you make adds up to significant progress and success. Keep pushing forward, stay consistent, and let's continue to achieve great things together.

In real estate, we encounter a wide range of personalities, situations, and outcomes daily. From challenging client interactions to deals that fall through, it’s easy to internalize these experiences and take things personally. However, one of the healthiest habits we can cultivate is learning not to do so. Why Not Taking Things Personally Matters When we take things personally, we allow external circumstances to dictate our emotions and self-worth. This not only affects our mental and emotional well-being but also impacts our professional performance. By learning to separate our identity from our professional experiences, we can navigate our careers with greater resilience and clarity. Tips for Not Taking Things Personally Understand It's Not About You: Often, clients' reactions and decisions are influenced by their own stresses and situations, not your performance. Recognize that their behavior is a reflection of their circumstances, not a measure of your worth. Practice Empathy: Try to see things from the other person's perspective. Empathy can help you understand their actions and respond with patience and professionalism rather than defensiveness. Focus on What You Can Control: You can’t control other people's actions, but you can control your response. Focus on providing the best service you can and let go of what’s beyond your control. Develop a Support Network: Lean on your colleagues for support and perspective. Sharing your experiences with others can help you see situations more objectively and remind you that you’re not alone. Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of your mental and emotional health through regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and hobbies can build your resilience and help you maintain a balanced perspective. The Benefits of This Habit When you stop taking things personally, you free yourself from unnecessary stress and negativity. You become more adaptable, maintaining your composure and professionalism even in challenging situations. This not only enhances your well-being but also strengthens your relationships with clients and colleagues, ultimately contributing to your success in real estate. It’s a small change that can lead to significant improvements in your personal and professional life. Remember, your value is not defined by external opinions or outcomes. Believe in yourself and stay focused on your goals.