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RIVER CITY REALTOR
R E A LT O R
®
T H E
V O I C E
F O R
R E A L
E S TAT E
™
I N
T H E
G R E AT E R
®
L A
C R O S S E
A R E A
OCTOBER 2014 • VOL. 35, NO. 1
Annual Meeting: A Great Night It Was!
General Election
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Sample Ballots at:
http://www.co.la-crosse.wi.us
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
WI CE Video Courses Offered
WI CE Video Courses are
offered weekly through
December 14, 2014. Check
out the flyer attached to this
issue of the newsletter.
December 11, 2014
Country Sprints Hotel
Pewaukee, WI
www.wra.org for more information
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Association Executive Message. . . . . . . 2
Mandatory Professional Standards Training . . . 2
Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Residential Rentals Now in MLS. . . . . . . 3
Dues Renewal Time is Here . . . . . . . . . . 4
RPAC - We Met Our Goal!. . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Statistics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Supra Hot Tip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Dates to Remember . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Fair Housing Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
New DNR Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Welcome New Members . . . . . . . . . . . 12
MLS Change Forms Now Electronic. . . 13
Annual Meeting photos . . . . . . . . . 15-16
Steve Lillestrand, Past President, installed Kent Gabrielsen as our
2014-2015 LARA President. Congratulation, Kent.
Wow! Our attendance reached over 100 for the Annual Meeting. Outgoing
President Cindy Gerke-Edwards had the opportunity to recognize members
that contributed their time and talent to the Association during the past
year. Involvement of our members is so vital to the growth and success of
our organization.
President Cindy presented the
President’s Team Award to Dave
Jones. Dave has been a part of the
Golf Committee since 2000, attends
most Association functions and has
invested in RPAC many times over
the past years! Whenever needed,
Dave is always there to help. Dave is
truly a team player and has contributed so much to our Association.
Congratulations, Dave.
President Cindy also presented the
– continued on page 15
2
Executive Report
The New Association Year Has Started!
RIVER CITY REALTOR®
by Char Glocke, Association Executive
A special thanks to everyone who joined us for a fun event –
the Annual Meeting! It is such a fun time to recognize all the
members who have given their time and talent over the past
year. We had over 100 in attendance! With Mike Pietrek being
our secret member, those in attendance had a fun and great
opportunity to network.
I had the pleasure of introducing and recognizing our Past
Presidents. What an honor for me. These individuals gave us
so much. Their commitment and dedication kept us growing
and moving forward over the years. Check out the list of these
special individuals in this issue.
Ryan, Kevin and I would like to thank Cindy for her leadership over the past year.
Your caring spirit toward the staff and members is truly a reflection that you are a
true leader. Thanks so much.
The new Association year has begun. We are looking forward to an exciting year
under the leadership of Kent Gabrielsen. Kent and I will complete committee assignments by the end of October. Our activities and events will soon be under way!
The colors of fall are peaking! Take some time and enjoy the beauty of our area.
Snow may just be around the corner.
Have a good month!
Have a good month!
EDITOR
Char Glocke
785-7837 • [email protected]
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President
Kent Gabrielsen
608-784-9930
[email protected]
President Elect
Chuck Olson
608-784-9930
[email protected]
Secretary/Treasurer
Dave Snyder
608-782-2300
[email protected]
Past President
Cindy Gerke-Edwards 608-784-2100
[email protected]
LOCAL DIRECTORS
Marv Leisso
608-783-6700 • [email protected]
Donna Proudfit
608-386-7161 • [email protected]
L43358
Mandatory Professional Standards Training Scheduled
Directors and Professional Standards Committee mandatory Training
is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2014. Director’s portion from
8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and then Directors and the entire Professional Standards Committee from 9 a.m. – Noon. It will be held at Cedar Creek.
Tracy Rucka, Director of Professional Standards and Practices, will
conduct the training. Invitations will go out shortly. This training
per LARA policy is mandatory in order to serve on the committee
Kevin
Ryan
Char
LARA Website
The River City Realtor® is published by the
La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association
608-785-7744 • 866-425-7744
www.larawebsite.com
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.larawebsite.com
Jeff Pralle
608-797-5097 • [email protected]
Kathy Johnson
608-792-9902
[email protected]
Jim Orlikowski
608-779-3079
[email protected]
Scott Ryan
608-792-4122
[email protected]
Advertising rates for the River City
Realtor ® are $6.00 per column inch
payable in advance. All new advertising
or changes in ads should be delivered
to the Association Office, camera ready,
by the 15th of the month prior to publications. Make checks payable to the
La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association.
Frequently Requested Phone Numbers:
WRA Legal Hotline • 608-799-4468
DSPS • 608-266-5511
Zip Forms Support • 1-800-383-9805
Metro MLS Helpdesk • 1-800-490-3731
River City Realtor®
Announcements
Residential Rentals Now Allowed In MLS
Members of MLS are now able to enter residential rental properties into
FlexMLS. This includes types of residential properties for lease or rent, such
as apartments and homes, Assisted Living apartments, vacation, short and
long term.
All MLS Rules will apply to Residential Rentals and they must offer
compensation to be entered into the MLS.
Some distinctions are:
• Rental Price is entered as a per month amount.
• If the listing is also for sale, then the listing is required to be entered
under the appropriate property type as well as Residential Rental.
• Rental Remarks represent public information about the property.
• Private Remarks should include showing instructions if applicable.
• Details - fill in all that apply. Note that there are details specific to
smoking and pets!
A copy of the WB-37 – Residential Listing Contract – Exclusive Right to Rent,
must accompany the Residential Rental Profile Sheet. This Profile Sheet is
available at our website www.larawebsite.com on the left column. Although
it is not electronic it is a one sided form.
If you have any questions please call the Association Office at 608-785-7744.
Violation of MLS Rules and Regulations to Loan Your Lockbox Key
It is clearly a violation of the MLS Rules and Regulations to loan your key
to another agent or any other person. Violation of this rule will result in a
$250 fine with subsequent violations increasing by $250. Such violations
may result in the loss of card privileges. It is the responsibility of each agent
purchasing a key to maintain control of their key at all times.
Agent Code
Sorry to…Josh Genz for missing his Agent Code in last month’s newsletter!
Call the Association Office if you find yours in this month’s issue and you will
win a free dinner at the next General Membership Meeting!
Member Updates
Congratulations to Jo Baldridge of Cindy
Gerke & Associates. Jo was awarded “CRS
of the Year”! The Certified Residential
Specialist (CRS) is the highest
Designation awarded to sales
associates in the residential
sales field. It recognizes
professional accomplishments
in both experience and
education. CRS® Designees are experienced
REALTORS® who complete advanced training
in listing and selling, and meet rigorous
production requirements. Way to go, Jo!
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
3
Membership Letter
As per Article 5, Section 3 (A) of the bylaws, you are hereby notified that the following people have submitted applications
for the class of membership indicated:
REALTORS®:
Garrick Olerud - Coldwell Banker River
Valley, REALTORS
Mark Johnson - Shane Peterson Realty
Daniel Veglahn - Coldwell Banker River
Valley, REALTORS
Michael Knothe - Coldwell Banker River
Valley, REALTORS
Lori Ohland - Coldwell Banker River Valley,
REALTORS
Amanda Dieltz - Castle Realty, LLC
Amy LeClaire - Castle Realty, LLC
Stephanie Gulbranson - Edina Realty
Marybeth Buswell - Cindy Gerke &
Associates
AFFILIATES:
Kay Buck – River Valley Title Group
Kyle Christopherson - Associated Bank
Should you have any comment in regard
to the application of these individuals,
submit them in writing prior to October 31,
2014 to the Association Office. It has been
determined by the Membership Committee
that the above applicant has applied for
the appropriate class of membership.
Chuck Olson,
Secretary/Treasurer
La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association
Welcome to LARA
River Valley Title Group
1288 Rudy St.
Ste 110
Onalaska, WI 54650
Contact: Kay Buck
Ph: 608-519-4634
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://rivervalleytitlegroup.
com/
4
Announcements
How Well Do You Know The Realtor®
Code of Ethics?
Members on the Move
Transfers:
Duties to Clients and Customers: Article 6
Renee Heintz from BHHS Lovejoy Realty to
Keller Williams Realty
Eric Marr from United Country Markim Realty to
Homestead Realty Inc. Wi #2
REALTORS® shall not accept any commission, rebate, or profit
on expenditures made for their client, without the client’s
knowledge and consent.
Inactives:
When recommending real estate products or services (e.g.,
homeowner’s insurance, warranty programs, mortgage
financing, title insurance, etc.), REALTORS® shall disclose to the
client or customer to whom the recommendation is made any
financial benefits or fees, other than real estate referral fees, the
REALTOR® or REALTOR®’s firm may receive as a direct result of
such recommendation. (Amended 1/99)
it’s
for you
Dana Johnston from BHHS Lovejoy Realty to
inactive
Roger Morton from BHHS Lovejoy Realty to
inactive
Office Changes:
Re/Max Affiliates (Eau Claire, WI) has gone
inactive
NAR’s
Information Central
Need a REALTOR® Pin?
If you have lost or misplaced your REALTOR® pin,
stop by the Association Office and we will give you
a replacement for free.
1-800-874-6500
Dues Renewal Time Is Here!
The Dues Renewal Invoices have either been
delivered or mailed. If you have not received
your statement, please contact the Association
Office at 608-785-7744.
All payments for 2015 membership dues must be
received by the Association Office by 5:00 p.m.
December 1, 2014. If not received by the deadline, there will be a fine of $275 that must be paid
in addition to your 2015 membership dues
Mortgage rates are LOW! Call us or apply online.
Please remember, you can pay dues online at
www.realtor.org using a Visa or Mastercard!
Congratulations!
Tina Mueller
(608) 779-8294
(608) 790-0442 Cell
[email protected]
merchantsbank.com/tmueller
To Al Iverson and Betty Bertrang for being the
first to pay their 2015 Membership Dues!
It was a tie!
Member FDIC
Subject to credit approval.
Dawn Garms
(608) 779-8222
[email protected]
merchantsbank.com/dgarms
3140 Market Place • Onalaska, WI 54650
(608) 779-8200 • www.merchantsbank.com
*
River City Realtor®
Member News
REALTOR® & Government Day: Spring 2015 at Monona Terrace in Madison
REALTOR® & Government Day is your opportunity to help shape the laws that impact you and your real estate business
in Wisconsin. Through lobbying efforts at the state Capitol, you’ll meet with state lawmakers and have a unique opportunity to advocate for issues that impact the real estate industry in Wisconsin. Watch for more information coming soon.
Tour Information
The deadline to submit tour information
for listings already entered in flexMLS is
Tuesday by 3:00 p.m. However, if it is a new
listing, you must submit it by Tuesday by
9:15 a.m. to be included in the tour for that
day.
We accept tours by:
• Phone at 785-7744
• Email to Ryan at mls@
larawebsite.com
• Fax at 785-7742
My WRA at WRA.org
As a WRA Member, you have the ability to
track your education (if taken from WRA
Instructors), WRA Committee involvement,
WRA membership information, RPAC dollars contributed and much more. Check it
out at www.wra.org.
MLS Tour Boundaries
The current dividing line between the North and the South Tour is I-90.
Exceptions:
• Holiday Heights and Mayfair Addition are North Tour
• Burns, Bangor, Hamilton, and Monroe County are North Tour
• Washington and Barre are South Tour
• French Island is South Tour
• Dakota and Dresbach are North Tour
• La Crescent and Hokah
North/South
are South Tour
Dividing Line
is I-90
Legal Updates Available at WRA.org
At www.wra.org you can search legal updates for the topic of your choice.
This publication is emailed to all members on a monthly basis. Important
information is covered in these updates. It’s a great resource and benefit of
membership for you.
President is Spokesperson for the Organization
It is important in creating the best public impression of the Association that any statements
regarding the activities of the Association or its public positions come from an official source
in the Association. This allows for coordination and clarity in the Association’s message. Our
policy is to have the Association President, or someone specifically designated by the President
in particular situations, as the only spokesperson for the Association. Our Presidents have
spokesperson training and an understanding of the entire Association and how its parts fit
together. If you are contacted by anyone, including the media, for any report on the Association
or its activities, refer them to the Association office and arrangements will be made to respond.
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
5
6
RPAC Works for You
What is the Purpose of RPAC?
Since 1969, the REALTORS® Political Action Committee
(RPAC) has promoted the election of pro-REALTOR®
candidates across the United States. The purpose of RPAC is
clear: REALTORS® raise and spend money to elect candidates
who understand and support their interests. The money to
accomplish this comes from voluntary contributions made
by REALTORS®. These are not members’ dues; this is money
given freely by REALTORS® in recognition of how important
campaign fundraising is to the political process. RPAC
doesn’t buy votes. RPAC enables REALTORS® to support
candidates that support the issues that are important to their
profession and livelihood.
Collected to date:
$13,479
RPAC Contributors $100 - $499:
Jeff Pralle
Kent Gabrielsen
Mike Pietrek
Gretchen Whitt
Brian Stephan
Chad Niegelsen
Jim Gull
Danyel Zielke
Char Glocke
Kathy Johnson
Gayle Dolle
Wendy Pertzsch
Josh Neumann
Renee Heintz
Eric Seeger
Scott Ryan
Alan Iverson
Lisa Kind
Harvey Bertrand
Donna Proudfit
RPAC Contributors $500 - $999
Sarah Hemker
Dave Jones
Peggy Lovejoy
Dave Snyder
Jillian Hugo
Katy Wood
Marty Kirchner
Owen Berg
Mary Jones
Linda Nelson
John Young
Cathy Fox
Dawn Levandoski
Ryan Wessel
Mary Scheel
Roxanne Reynolds
Anastasia Gentry
Kayla Vess
Dan Hoch
Rick Hamilton
RPAC Contributors $1000+
Mike Richgels
Chuck Olson
Judy Gull
Dan Stacey
Nancy Gerrard
Cindy Gerke-Edwards
Jackie Gerke-Edwards
Ryan Olson
Brian D. Benson
Meet our Closing Agents...
Wendy and Mary have over 26 years of combined industry experience in all
phases of a file - from searching to examining and closing to post closing.
At The Title Company, our closing agents have the experience
to get your transactions closed smoothly, professionally, and on time.
When challenges come up Wendy and Mary are problem solvers and
communicators. They know exactly what it takes to get your deals closed!
From the ordinary to the unexpected... They have you covered.
Wendy Banasik - Closing Agent
Experience in the La Crosse,
Viroqua, and Prairie du Chien
area markets.
Wendy and Mary have closed all types of transactions including
commercial, residential, vacant land, FSBO, new construction, and more.
Mary Pasch - Closing Agent
Experience in the La Crosse,
Sparta, and Tomah
area markets.
The Title Company, Inc. | 500 2nd St. S., Suite 102 La Crosse, WI 54601 | www.TITLECO.com | 1-800-78-TITLE
La Crosse 608-791-2000 | Eau Claire 715-838-2800 | Viroqua 608-637-3700 | Prairie du Chien 608-326-7330 | Whitehall 715-538-1400
River City Realtor®
Information is supplied by seller and other third parties and has not been verified.
Copyright © 2007 by Multiple Listing Service, Inc. See FBS copyright notice.
La Crosse County Sold & Active Listings – September 2014 7
PRICE-CLASS/TYPE
SOLD/ACTIVE RESIDENTIAL LISTINGS
CURRENT ACTIVE LISTINGS
0-2
3
4+ TWO CONDO TOTAL SINGLECONDO
BDRMSBDRMS BDRMS FAMILY CO-OP
UNITS FAMILY CO-OP
29,999.99 and under
30,000 - 39,999.99
40,000 - 49,999.99
50,000 - 59,999.99
60,000 - 69,999.99
70,000 - 79,999.99
80,000 - 89,999.99
90,000 - 99,999.99
100,000 - 119,999.99
120,000 - 139,999.99
140,000 - 159,999.99
160,000 - 179,999.99
180,000 - 199,999.99
200,000 - 249,999.99
250,000 - 299,999.99
300,000 - 399,999.99
400,000 - 499,999.99
500,000 and over
TOTALS
AVERAGE
MEDIAN
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0 1
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
3
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
4
0
3
3
0
0
0
6
7
1
2
0
1
0
0
3
20
0
2
1
0
1
0
4
17
3
0
2
1
0
0
3
34
2
4
5
1
2
1
1354 1
48 5 1 0 18 70 4
1
4
5
02 1270 3
0
76
6
1
1 1438 3
1
2
0
0
1
4
29
2
0
4
10
0
0 1461 6
1
4
4
0
0
8
46
5
0
2
6
1
1
9
47
3
0
1
20 0 5180
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
1
1943 41 6 6 116 540 34
100,832167,648 215,563 180,650 180,650 177,368 207,844 200,371
105,000
146,000
200,000
149,900
149,900
152,500
159,850
171,500
Unit Sales by Time on Market
Unit Sales by Financing Type
DAYS
RESCONDO
1 - 30
31 - 6027
53
20
1
3
61 - 90
16
1
91 - 120
6
0
Adj Rate Mtg
Assumable FHA
Assumable VA
Cash
Conventional 15
Conventional 30
Federal VA
FHA 15
121 or over 151
TOTAL SALES
110
6
TYPE
Property Type
Residential
RESCONDO
0
0
0
17
3
73
6
1
0
0
0
3
0
2
0
0
FHA 30
Other
Owner Fin
Private
State VA
USDA Loan
WHEDA
TOTAL SALES
TYPE
Volume
Median Sold Price
RESCONDO
6
7
0
0
0
0
0
110
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
6
19,490,766152,500
Condo1,083,900149,900
All
20,574,666 152,500
Have You Looked for Your
Agent Code in this Issue?
If you find your ­number, call the A
­ ssociation Office at 785-7744 to claim
your free ­dinner at the next Association activity / meeting!
Try these
great marketing
tools today!
MLS Listing
Internet Sites
MLS Listings are presently
on two websites.
Check out your listings
at the ­following sites:
http://www.wihomes.com
http://www.realtor.com
Single Family / Condominium
If you have any questions,
call Char at 785-7837.
Title Insurance • 1031 Exchange • Search & Hold • Lender and Cash Closing
Servicing La Crosse, Trempealeau, Vernon and Monroe Counties
2850 Midwest Drive, Suite 103, Onalaska, WI 54650
Phone: 608-784-8888 Fax: 866-816-9620
E-mail: [email protected]
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
Order online at: www.wisconsinfirstam.com
8
Supra Hot Tip
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 2. Don’t forget to set your
clocks back one hour. This is also a good time to check and reset the clock
on your fax machine as well.
KIM and Daylight Savings Time
On November 2, Daylight Savings Time will end, and we will all be setting our clocks back one hour. How does this
affect the Supra Lockbox system? The Supra Lockboxes are set to open during the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. during
Standard Time. If you need to access the keys at any time outside of those hours, the lockbox can be set for 24-hour
access using these simple instructions:
Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Step 4: Step 5: Step 6: You need the shackle release code for the lockbox.
Push the enter button to turn your key on.
Scroll down to programming, push enter.
Push 2 for 24-hour access.
Enter your shackle code, push enter.
Insert your DisplayKey into the lockbox.
The DisplayKey will say successful.
The box is now set for 24-hour access. To return to timed access, repeat the procedure, only in Step 4, push 1 for
timed access. If the box you are accessing does not belong to you, you must contact the listing agent to request that
the box be set to 24-hour access. This is done at the discretion of each broker.
Your Time is Running Out!
Are you still in need of Wisconsin Continuing Education? We have a solution
for you. We are now offering videos every week for your convenience. The last
scheduled video class is December 8, 2014. Check out the schedule below:
Real Estate CE Video Courses
Course 1 –
Video Dates
Course 2 –
Video Dates
10/23/2014
11/17/2014
12/2/2014
To register:
10/28/2014
11/17/2014
12/2/2014
For questions: Course 3 –
Video Dates
11/4/2014
11/20/2014
12/4/2014
Course 4 –
Video Dates
11/4/2014
11/20/2014
12/4/2014
Course A –
Video Dates
11/13/2014
11/25/2014
12/8/2014
Call LARA at 785-7744 for a registration form, or print it off our
website at www.larawebsite.com. The deadline for ALL Wisconsin
licensees to complete C.E. is December 14.
Email: [email protected].
Course D –
Video Dates
11/13/2014
11/25/2014
12/8/2014
Hurry,
classes DO
fill quickly.
River City Realtor®
Dates to Remember
October
SMTWT F S
1234
56789 1011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293031
1
Open House Deadline 3pm
South Tour
2
New Member Orientation
LARA Board office 9am-2pm
3
WI Video CE Course 4
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
6
WI Video CE Course A
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
8
Open House Deadline 3 pm – North Tour
15 Open House Deadline 3 pm – South Tour
16 WI Video CE Course D
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
RPAC Breakfast (Direct Givers > $100)
22
Open House Deadline 3 pm – North Tour
23
28
November
9
SMTWT F S
1
2345678
9 101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
30
2
Daylight Savings Time: Set
your clocks back one hour
4
WI Video CE Course 3
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course 4
1:00pm – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
November General Election Day
5
11
12
13 Open House Deadline 3 pm – North Tour
Veterans Day
Open House Deadline 3 pm – South Tour
WI Video CE Course A
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course D
1:00pm – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
17 WI Video CE Course 1
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WWI Video CE Course 1
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course 2
1:00pm – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course 2
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
19
20
Open House Deadline 3 pm – North Tour
25
I Video CE Course A
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course D
1:00pm – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
26
27 28
30
Open House Sabbatical for 11/30/2014 – South Tour
29 Open House Deadline 3 pm – South Tour
31
Happy Halloween
National Book Month
12
“Worry is the misuse of the imagination.”
– Dan Zadra
WI Video CE Course 3
9:00am – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
WI Video CE Course 4
1:00pm – LARA Board Office – Registration Open
Happy Thanksgiving – LARA Office Closed
LARA Office Closed
* Reminder – No Open Houses today!
National Book Month
Birthdays - October
2
7
7
7
11
13
14
15
16
16
Mary Norris-Strang
Mary Scheel
John Jaszewski
Richard Frank
Jennifer Schrader
Heidi Overson
Kate Malles
Tom Kruse
Jennifer Faber
Chad Niegelsen
Birthdays - November
17
19
22
25
26
26
27
28
28
29
Beth Grossbach
Mirella Huss
Hans Zietlow
Gail Krenn
Joan Dickie
Amy LeClaire
Peggy Lovejoy
Tom Simonson
Lori Gertsch
Kevin Biondo
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
29
29
30
31
31
Eric Marr
Brianne Weiss
Scott Ryan
Rebecca Ottoson
Terry Herbst
1
3
4
5
6
6
9
9
9
10
11
Jay Hoeschler
Keith Brown
Erik Hanson
Sheri Klein
Dan Brodigan
Laurie Peter
Mike Marohl
Debra Reilly
Lynda Smith
Patrick Walz
Bill Kessler
11 Todd Mandel
12 Mike Hoppens
13 Barb Partin
13 Tom Wheeler
14 Linda Sherry
15 Susan Timm
16 Paul Gleason
17 Tom Tomter
18 Cindy Gerke-
Edwards
22 Darlene Torgerson
23 Molly Hanratty
24 Lucas Eagon
24 Tika Herritz
25 Mike Richgels
27 Cheryl Lasse Meyers
28 Donna Proudfit
29 Mike Pietrek
29 Steve Boris
29 Kristie Tweed
10
Fair Housing Corner
BUILDING A
NATION OF NEIGHBORS
“Can I get sued if I refuse to sell to minorities?”
Key Points
A refusal to sell or rent based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nation origin is
illegal and violates Section 804(a) of Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968.
Areas of Liability
The seller can be exposed to charges of discrimination if the refusal to sell is based on the race,
color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin of the homebuyer and not on differences in the terms or conditions of the sale or in the qualifications of the homebuyer.
If you do not immediately dissociate yourself from a seller or lessor who wants to discriminate, you
may also be charged with discrimination.
Are You Our Facebook Friend?
You can find our fan page anytime by logging
to the official LARA website, www.larawebsite.
com, and clicking on our Facebook link,
searching for “La Crosse Area REALTORS Association”
within Facebook’s search function, or entering the following
address into your web browser:
NAR’s
Information
­Central
it’s
for
you 1-800
http://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Crosse-WI/
La-Crosse-Area-REALTORSRAssociation/263652751459
874
6500
FINANCING GENERATIONS
OF HOMEOWNERS
For more than 150 years, Associated Bank
has focused on making good loans. Our
responsible approach to lending reflects the
values of our organization and the customers
we serve in the La Crosse area. We’re strong
and ready to lend.
David Jones 605 State St. | 608-793-3832 | NMLS: 523764
Jacob Martin 127 Sand Lake Rd. | 608-793-3836 | NMLS: 523832
*The Wisconsin’s #1 Mortgage Lender designation is based on information gathered from the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data compiled annually by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council. The results
of the data were obtained through SNL Financial, LC, November 2013. • Loan products are offered by Associated Bank, N.A., Member FDIC and Associated Banc-Corp. Loans involve interest and other costs. Please
ask about details. All mortgage programs are subject to credit approval and property evaluation. Property insurance and flood insurance, if applicable, will be required on all collateral. Equal Housing Lender. Equal
Opportunity Lender. (7/14) 6244
River City Realtor®
Member News
11
New DNR Rules In Effect October 1
Well inspection requires automatic well water testing
As of October 1, 2014, the DNR will require any well driller or pump installer conducting a well inspection to also
automatically test the well water for nitrates, bacteria and arsenic. This will apply to well inspections conducted on
or after the effective date of October 1, 2014. (Note – A well inspection is not required under the new DNR rules but,
if an inspection is performed, the well water must be tested.)
This required testing may create issues for your transactions. If a well inspection is included, the water still must
be tested for bacteria, nitrates and arsenic even if a well water testing contingency is not included in the offer. If the
well water testing contingency does not include one or all three of the state required tests, the water must still be
tested and your offer won’t address the steps to take if the results exceed safe levels. Lastly, the additional testing
will likely increase the water testing fees, and may result in possible delays if it takes longer to test for the three
required elements.
Currently, the DNR has not provided any specific information as to the changes on its website. We apologize for not
providing you with this information until now, but the DNR just made public the final draft of the rule today, September 25, 2014. Therefore in the near future, the WRA will provide more information on these new requirements
including drafting tips and further background information to assist you in explaining these changes to consumers.
If you have any questions, please contact Liesa Lehmann, Private Water Section Chief, Bureau of Drinking Water and
Ground Water, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, at 608-267-7649.
Source: WRA Email Dated September 25, 2014
Need Information?
Check out the Association Web Site at www.
larawebsite.com for an update on Association
activities, membership information, professional standards forms, online MLS Profile
Sheets, Open House online form and so much more.
Looking for a lender that can deliver? Same day Preapprovals!! Close on Time!! Local Loan Officers that know the market!!! Rehab loans, Manufactured homes, LOW credit scores  ZERO to Low Down‐payment loans  FHA, VA, USDA Rural, WHEDA & Conventional Loan programs all available. 
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Todd Cejka – (608)783‐0860  Jeff Thompson – (608)781‐0710 Call today to see how AMEC can help you close more sales faster!! American Mortgage & Equity Consultants 114 N 2nd Ave, Onalaska, WI NMLS Todd 251574  Jeff 256028 Branch 844359  Company 150953 Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
12
Welcome New Members
Welcome to Michael Knothe of Coldwell Banker
River Valley, REALTORS®. Michael is a married father
of two children – son Jackson and daughter Julia. He
enjoys staying active by participating on the Stansfield Vending pool league, a golf league and is also a
member of the Moose Lodge. Welcome Michael.
Welcome to Tika Herritz of Coldwell Banker River
Valley, REALTORS®. Tika is a married mom to two
children (ages 1 & 3) and two Springer Spaniels.
She enjoys boating, the YMCA, and involved in the
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Additionally, she likes to unwind to some
country music or a good comedy flick.
Coldwell Banker River Valley, REALTORS® is pleased
to bring Steve Betthauser to their team. Steve is a
married father of two daughters (Kasey & Heather)
and enjoys hunting and fishing along with travel.
Welcome aboard!
Castle Realty, LLC is pleased to bring Amy
LeClaire to their team. Amy enjoys being active in
the outdoors – camping, hiking, boating and jogging. She also loves spending time with her kids,
family and friends. Welcome aboard, Amy!
Welcome to….Garrick Olerud of Coldwell Banker
River Valley, REALTORS®. Garrick is a married father
of 5-month-old Peyton. He enjoys golf and being
involved in the community, currently as a Westby
Chamber of Commerce member, Snowflake Ski Club
board member and serves as a council member for
his church.
Welcome to Scott Neumeister. Scott is the latest
addition to the Cindy Gerke & Associates team.
Scott is a married father of three children and one
grandson. He serves as the Commissioner of the
La Crosse City Planning Commission and enjoys
volunteering as a coach for numerous clubs and
organizations.
Castle Realty welcomes Katie Kelly (soon to be Gullikson)! Katie recently relocated to La Crosse from
TX and is engaged to be married on Oct. 11, 2014.
She has an Elementary Education background and
enjoys motorcycle riding, traveling and volunteering and enjoys membership with the Alpha Delta Pi
Alumni Association.
BHHS Lovejoy Realty is pleased to bring Kayla Vess
to their team. Kayla is the spouse of an active duty
service member and enjoys volunteering as an Army
event volunteer and coordinator. She is a mother of
a 2-year-old daughter and enjoys hiking and running
local 5K events for charity.
Welcome to…..Melissa Warren. Melissa is a married mother to three kids and has one more on
the way. She enjoys photography, swimming, gardening, fishing and relishes being a mom – often
spending her time at kid functions. Melissa is a
REALTOR® with Castle Realty, LLC.
no photo
available
BHHS Lovejoy Realty is pleased to bring Ryan Wessel to their Onalaska team. Ryan is a married father
of one son and enjoys the investment property
business. Welcome aboard Ryan!
Welcome to Heidi Overson of Cindy Gerke & Associates. Heidi is a married mother of four children.
She’s an award winning writer and editor who’s
articles & stories have appeared both locally and
nationally and serves as Field Editor for ‘Our Wisconsin Magazine.’ She volunteers with the Rotary
Lights and Salvation Army and is an Oktoberfest
Grenadier. Additionally, she is the Regional State
Rep. for WI Writers Association. Welcome Heidi!
Welcome to Jennifer Faber of United Country /
Markim Realty. Jennifer is mom to three daughters
– Stefanie, Sarah & Kathryn. She’s an active member of seven years to the Kiwanis Club of Sparta
and also involved in the Sparta Community Holiday Group. Welcome Jennifer.
Coldwell Banker River Valley, REALTORS® is pleased
to announce Laurie Noelke as their newest REALTOR® agent. Laurie is a married mom of three
children (two sons - 13 & 7 and a daughter - 11)
and two dogs. She enjoys biking, boating and scrapbooking and stays active by participating on her
churches council and committees.
Welcome to….Lori Ohland of Coldwell Banker River
Valley, REALTORS®. Lori is a mother to three grown
children and enjoys exploring the outdoor recreation
our area has to offer – Hiking, Walking Trails, and
Canoeing. In her downtime, she likes to unwind by
Quilting. Welcome Lori!
Cindy Gerke & Associates welcomes Tammie
Rochelt as their newest REALTOR® agent. Tammie
and husband, Rich, enjoy the quiet life Coon Valley
has to offer where they reside with their two dogs
– Golden Retriever “Emmie” and Yellow Lab “Sam”.
She enjoys reading, antiquing, tennis and quality
family time.
Welcome to Broker/Owner Chris Kilen of Nordic
Hills Real Estate LLC. Chris is a married father of
three sons – Truman, Tucker and Gunnar – and one
daughter, Martha. He currently resides in the Belleville, WI area and operates out of Westby.
Coldwell Banker River Valley, REALTORS® welcomes Dan Veglahn to their La Crosse office. Apart
from real estate, Dan is active in the community by
serving as a board member at La Crescent Animal
Hospital and is a member of the Young Professionals of the Coulee Region group. An interesting family fact is he has one sister – 21 years younger than he. Welcome Dan!
no photo
available
no photo
available
Welcome to Pam Eilertson. Pam is Owner/Operator
of ‘Pamela Eilertson Appraiser’. She and husband,
David, enjoy the outdoors – mountain hiking, baseball, football and kickball. She’s a car enthusiast that
also enjoys taking Corvette cruises. Welcome Pam!
Hoppens Realty, Inc. is pleased to announce Teri
Johnson to their REALTOR® team. Terri is a married mother to three children – Ryan, Whitney and
Nik. She enjoys reading and gardening during her
downtime and is an avid Green Bay Packers fan.
BHHS Lovejoy Realty welcomes Marcy Storey.
Marcy will be working out of the Onalaska office.
Welcome Marcy!
River City Realtor®
Member News
13
Great News - MLS Change Form is now electronic!
Great news for La Crosse MLS users – the MLS Change Form is now electronic. Rather than completing the antiquated
handwritten form, you now have the opportunity to complete and submit your Change Forms online.
To access the online Change Form, visit our homepage at www.larawebsite.com. From the left hand menu, select “Submit
Change Form” under “Multiple Listing Service”. This will bring up an online form in your browser to enter your change
information.
Before electronically submitting your form to MLS, you also have the opportunity to enter up to two emails that will receive
a PDF copy of your online Change Form once submitted. After submission, please fax over any supporting paperwork such
as an amendment (if required) for the change you’re requesting.
This update compliments the electronic Profile Sheets already available for use (also found on our homepage). If you have
not already moved away from the paper forms, we encourage you to do so. The electronic Profile Sheet & Change Form
submission system is designed to catch user errors and/or missing information potentially avoiding delays in your listings
being entered into MLS. The clarity and quality of an electronic Profile Sheet also enables faster entry into the MLS system
and reduces the likelihood of entry errors as at times, faxes or handwriting can be difficult to read.
Should you have any troubles with the online change form submission system or have any questions please contact the
board office.
MLS Postal Municipality Update - Here is what you should know
The new “Postal Municipality” field implemented in MLS over late summer 2014 is automatically filled based on the zip
code you indicate on your profile sheets. There isn’t a “Postal Municipality” field you fill in or a place to indicate a Postal
Municipality on a profile sheet - the MLS system automatically pulls in the Postal Municipality and populates the field in
accordance with USPS address standardization when your listing goes live.
You can learn more about how it determines the Postal Municipality here: http://metromls.com/sites/default/files/Flextips/
HTML/addressstandardizationislive.html
An example of how this works is a property may have a Tax Key of ‘11039XXXXXXX’ with a Tax Municipality matching
Mound Prairie, MN…but also have a Postal Municipality of Houston, MN. Both Mound Prairie AND Houston will appear on
your listings/hotsheets etc going forward.
The Taxing Municipality is still a required field and is not going away. However, when you pull up any of your listings,
you will now see a “Taxed By” field (based on the Tax Key) AND the new “County” field that automatically lists the Postal
Municipality.
This change was made retro-active, so existing active listings that were put into MLS six months ago, a year ago, or even
three years ago have this change - you’d don’t have to do anything - they’ve been added for you automatically.
Should you find any discrepancies to the new Postal Municipality added to your MLS listings or have additional questions,
please notify the Board Office so we may investigate and assist you.
We Need
You!
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
Want to meet people, make a difference and have some fun? Sign up for a Committee
today! Become an active part of the Association through Committee involvement.
Choose a Committee that shares your interests. See the attached flyer. The strength of
our Association comes from you. Sign up today!
14
Member News
I am a Wisconsin REALTOR®
and I will
a VOTE
On November 4
Affiliate Opportunity!
At each Orientation, a Goodie
Bag is given to each Applicant in
attendance. This bag is filled with
promotional material provided
by our Affiliates. If you are
interested in being represented
and want to promote your
company, please bring 40 of each
item to the Association Office
by August 15. This is a member
benefit which gives you the
opportunity to inform Applicants
as to what business services you
offer. If you have any questions,
please call Kevin at 608-785-7744.
Did You Know?
Take pride
in being a R
­ EALTOR.®
Irrespective of local dialect and custom, the term REALTOR® has
but one pronunciation:
Display the REALTOR® “R” logo
on your business card and ­stationery!
TE
ABC REAL ESTA
123 Main Street
nsin
La Crosse, Wisco
REAL ’ TOR
That’s two syllables.
Industry professionals
pronounce it correctly!
R E A LT O
R
®
River City Realtor®
Annual Meeting
15
– continued from page 1
President Cindy also presented the President’s Award – You Make A World
of Difference – to Roxanne Reynolds (see photo to right). Roxanne has been
actively involved in the Association since 1989. She has not only served but
chaired most Committees, served as President, twice, is a faithful RPAC Investor, and is a Fair Housing Instructor at Orientation, to mention a few. It is amazing how much this Lady has helped this Association move forward and become
the Association we are today. Roxanne, you have truly made a World of Difference. Congratulations.
Marv Leisso had the pleasure of presenting Hall of Fame – Member of Distinction Awards to Mike Pietrek and Steve Lillestrand.
Steve has been a REALTOR® for 20 years. He has chaired as well as served on many of our Association Committees. He sat
on our Board of Directors from 2007-2012. He served as LARA President in 2009-2010 and again in 2010-2011. Steve has
been a member of the WRA Real Estate Forms Advisory Board, and served as a WRA State Director in 2011-2013. His community service includes instructor at Western Technical College teaching real estate sales and brokerage, delivering meals
on wheels, volunteer at his church and also the Salvation Army. Congratulation, Steve.
– continued on page 16
Past Presidents: Respecting and Acknowledging Our Elite Club
At the annual meeting I had the pleasure of introducing the members of our elite club. Over the years, these outstanding members
have given their talent and so much of their time. Because of this dedication, our Association is recognized as one of the top Associations in the state. I would like to share with you the Past Presidents of the La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association. A huge thank you
to each of you for all that you have done and given to our Association.
- Char Glocke, Association Executive
Claud Pettingill
Elmer Hougen
Joe Wavra, Sr.
Verne Tooke
Arthur Ginsky
Joseph Wavra
Mrs. Floyd Silas
Gene Luening
Tom Wheeler
Clem Feldbruegge
Ken Gorman
Lester Olsen
Levi Swett
Tilford Nelson
Bill Gerrard
Dave Schams
James Hoeschler
Della Schultz
Al Prellwitz
Bob Deal
Date Unknown Deceased
1948 - Deceased
1953 - Deceased
1954 - Deceased
1957 - Deceased
1958 - Deceased
1959 - Deceased
1960 - Deceased
1961
1962 - Deceased
1963 - Deceased
1964 - Deceased
1965 - Deceased
1966 - Deceased
1967
1968
1969 - Deceased
1970
1970-1971 - Deceased
1971-1972 - Deceased
Vol. 35 No. 1 • October 2014
Else Lenser
John Dunham
Don F. Johnson
Al Roberts
Marion Pastur
Bob Wehrenberg
Dick Clements
Dave Eilertson
Bill Hansen
Dennis Baehr
Mary Ann Roesler
Tom Borreson
Fred Prassas
Wally Kenimer
Nancy Gerrard
Brian Stephan
Pam Eilertson
Grace Spencer
Peggy Lovejoy
Marv Leisso
1972-1973
1973-1974 - Deceased
1974-1975
1975-1976 - Deceased
1976-1977 - Deceased
1977-1978
1978-1979
1979-1980
1980-1981
1981-1982
1982-1983
1983-1984
1984-1985
1985-1986 - Deceased
1986-1987
1987-1988
1988-1989
1989-1990
1990-1991
1991-1992
Katy Wood
Judy Carpenter
Kathy Bakalars
Fran Noffke
Roxanne Reynolds
Gary Lass
H. King Holley
Larry Jiracek
Renee Dettmann
Roxanne Reynolds
Gary Lass
Marv Leisso
Fran Noffke
John Young
John Young
H. King Holley
Jodi O’Brien
Steve Lillestrand
Steve Lillestrand
Chad Niegelsen
Mike Pietrek
Cindy Gerke-Edwards
1992-1993
1993-1994
1994-1995 - Deceased
1995-1996
1996-1997
1997-1998
1998-1999
1999-2000
2000-2001
2001-2002
2002-2003
2003-2004
2004-2005
2005-2006
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
16
Annual Meeting
– continued from page 15
Mike has been a REALTOR® since 1997. During the past 17 years, he has
worked as an agent, manager, and Instructor teaching real estate sales and or
continuing education. He has served on the LARA Board of Directors from
2008 to present. He was LARA President in 2012-2013 and served on many
committees but his major focus has been Government Affairs. Mike serves
as the Chair to our Government Affairs Committee and has worked endlessly
to surpass our RPAC goal for 2014 which we accomplished. He serves on the
WRA Public Policy Committee and is the NAR Federal Political Coordinator
for Congressman Ron Kind. His community service has included being a First
Responder, and Member of the Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. He is currently a Rotarian. Congratulations, Mike.
Thank you both for your caring spirit, your dedication and hours given.
Tom Larson , Vice President of Legal and Public Affairs for the WRA, updated us
on the DSPS, Legislative Issues and the WI New Landlord Tenant Laws. In addition he installed the 2014-2015 Officers and Directors.
Steve Lillestrand, Past President, installed Kent Gabrielsen as our 2014-2015
LARA President. Congratulation, Kent.
We are looking forward to a phenomenal year!
La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association
111 6th Street South, La Crosse, WI 54601
River City Realtor®
Meet People,
Make a Difference
and
Have Fun!
Dear Fellow Member:
As your President-Elect, I am looking forward to an exciting year.
The strength of our Association comes from you. Real Estate is a constantly
changing business. Your input and special talent keeps us on the cutting edge.
Please indicate your choice of Committee involvement below and return it to the
Association Office by September 30, 2014.
I am looking forward to working with you.
Kent Gabrielsen
President Elect
La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association
I am willing to volunteer my valuable time in the following areas of interest:
Committee Application
In requesting appointment to an Association Committee I understand that any statement, oral or written, on the
Committee’s activities or positions taken, may be made only by the Association President or someone who is
a designee of the Association President. I agree to abide by this policy.
(check one or more of the following)
 Recognition Committee
 Holiday Social Committee
 Golf Outing Committee
 Governmental Affairs Committee
 Professional Standards Committee
 Equal Opportunity Committee
 Snow Bowl Committee
 Family Loggers Baseball Event
Name: ____________________________________________________ (please print)
Please fax your response by September 30, 2014 to: La Crosse Area REALTORS® Association at 785-7742 or email
[email protected]. Thank you!