Realty Executives Platinum

Brad Kuenzi

Brad Kuenzi

Broker Owner

Realty Executives Platinum

Blog

Why Working with a Local Realtor Beats Online Estimates

(Published on - 7/10/2025 6:04:58 PM)

Why Working with a Local Realtor Beats Online Estimates

When you're thinking about selling your home, one of the first things you probably do is check your "Zestimate" or an online valuation tool. It’s quick, easy, and free, but is it accurate?

The truth is, those instant estimates from websites like Zillow or Redfin often miss the mark. Here’s why working with a local real estate expert like Brad Kuenzi offers a far better picture of what your home is actually worth.


1. Online Estimates Can Be Off. Way Off.

Zillow itself admits their “Zestimate” is off by around 7%, which can be tens of thousands of dollars. Why? Because algorithms don’t walk through your house. They don’t know if:

  • You just remodeled the kitchen

  • The neighbor’s house sold under market because it needed a new roof

  • Your lot backs up to a beautiful green space (not a busy road)

Those details matter and automated tools can't see them.


2. Local Market Knowledge is Everything

A local Realtor like Brad doesn't just look at data,he lives it. He knows:

  • What buyers in Watertown, Dodge County, and Jefferson County are looking for right now

  • What your home can realistically sell for, not just what the internet says.

Brad has access to up-to-date Metro MLS data, local trends, and insight that no online tool can match.


3. A Personalized, On-Site Home Valuation

Online tools rely solely on public records and past sales. Brad takes the time to:

  • Tour your home in person

  • Consider upgrades and unique features

  • Compare your property to recent local sales, not just broad zip code averages

This leads to a far more accurate and strategic pricing recommendation.


4. Real Strategy, Not Just a Number

Pricing your home right is critical. If it’s too high, you risk sitting on the market. Too low, and you leave money on the table.

Brad doesn’t just give you a number, he gives you a plan:

  • When to list

  • How to market

  • What buyers in your area respond to.

That’s value you simply can’t get from a national website.


5. You’re Not a Data Point, You’re a Client

At the end of the day, working with a Realtor is about people. Brad Kuenzi takes the time to understand your goals, timeline, and concerns. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or selling your first home, you’ll get real, custom advice,not just an automated number.


Ready for a Real Home Value?

If you're curious what your home is truly worth, don’t rely on an algorithm.
Let Brad Kuenzi provide a free, no-obligation home valuation based on real data and local experience.

Fill out the form below to schedule a visit or request your personalized market analysis.

Questions about selling your home?
Let's get started...
Reach an area expert for more info:















June 2025 Market Update: Dodge County, Jefferson County, & Watertown

(Published on - 7/2/2025 4:52:02 PM)

As we step into the heart of summer, the real estate market across Dodge County, Jefferson County, and Watertown Wisconsin continues to show movement.  Welcome to the June 2025 Local Market Recap!

 

Dodge County

  • New Listings: 96 (↑ 7.87% from May)

    Sold Listings: 89 (↑ 5.95% from May)

    Median Sold Price: $310,000 (↑ 9.73% from May)

    Median New Listing Price: $300,000 (↑ 0.03% from May)

    Median Days on Market: 10 days (↓ 33.33% from May)

 

What does this mean for you? Dodge County saw strong seller momentum in June, with both listings and sales on the rise. The jump in median sold price paired with a significant drop in days on market suggests that well-priced homes are moving quickly, which is a sign of a competitive environment for buyers, and a great time to hit the market for sellers!


Jefferson County

  • New Listings: 107 (6.96% from May)

    Sold Listings: 103 

    Median Sold Price: $372,000 (↑ 0.54%)

    Median New Listing Price: $349,900 (↑ 7.69% from May)

    Median Days on Market: 9 days (↑ 80% from May)

 

What does this mean for you? Jefferson County experienced a surge in closed sales despite fewer new listings. Prices remained steady, though homes took longer to sell.  Still, demand remains strong.  


Watertown

  • New Listings: 29 (no change from May)

    Sold Listings: 27 (↑ 42.11% from May)

    Median Sold Price: $323,000 (↑ 0.94% from May)

    Median New Listing Price: $324,900 (↑ 8.34% from May)

    Median Days on Market: 5 days (↓ 37.5% from May)

 

What does this mean for you? Watertown continues to be a hot spot. Homes are selling fast, in just 5 days on average, with both list and sale prices trending up. With demand high and inventory steady, Watertown is clearly a desirable place to be this summer.  This signals an excellent market for sellers to take advantage of!


What This Means for You

If you're thinking about selling, now could be an ideal time to list, particularly in Watertown and Dodge county as a whole, where homes are selling quickly and for top dollar. For buyers, staying ready and working with a local expert can give you the edge you need in this competitive market.

Want to know what your home is worth or start your home search?
Let’s talk — I’d love to help.


*All Stats are for Single-Family Properties, provided by Metro MLS

Questions about selling your home?
Let's get started...
Reach an area expert for more info:















What is my Home Worth? A Realtor's Guide to Finding Your Home's Value

(Published on - 6/27/2025 3:31:27 PM)

What is My Home Worth?

A Realtor's Guide to Finding Your Home’s Value in Today’s Market!

 Whether you're planning to sell soon, refinance, or just curious about one of your biggest investments, understanding your home's value is an important first step. It is important to note that not all estimates are created equal.

As a full-time real estate Broker serving Dodge and Jefferson counties, I want to share a Realtor’s perspective on how to truly understand what your home is worth in today’s local market.


1. Online Home Value Estimators (Zestimates & More)

You’ve probably typed your address into a website and gotten a quick “estimate” of your home’s value. While these tools can offer a rough ballpark, they often miss key factors:

  • Recent local sales

  • Upgrades or renovations

  • Local trends

Think of these estimates as a starting point, not the final answer.


2. What Really Determines Home Value?

Realtors use something called a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) — a detailed look at homes similar to yours that have recently sold, are currently on the market, or were listed but didn’t sell. When comparing homes, here are a few factors we consider in our analysis:

  • Square footage

  • Age and condition of the home

  • Lot size

  • Number of Bedroom and Bathrooms

  • Features like garages, finished basements, or updated kitchens

This local insight is something no algorithm can match, especially in communities like Watertown, Oconomowoc, or rural Jefferson County.  


3. Why Timing Matters

The real estate market is constantly shifting.   A home’s value in June may not be the same as it is in December. Inventory levels, buyer demand, interest rates, and economic shifts all play a role in determining what buyers are willing to pay.

A Realtor who understands current local trends can help you price your home smartly to attract attention and maximize value.


4. Don’t Forget Curb Appeal and Condition

Even in a strong market, presentation matters. Two homes with the same floor plan can sell for very different prices depending on:

  • Cleanliness and clutter level

  • Paint, flooring, and lighting updates

  • Landscaping and curb appeal

Not sure where to start?  View our FREE Clean-it, Paint-it, Fix-it Guide!


5. Want a Free, No-Pressure Home Value Review?

I offer complimentary, no obligation home value consultations — no strings attached. Whether you're selling in 6 weeks or 6 years, it’s always good to know where you stand.

Questions about selling your home?
Let's get started...
Reach an area expert for more info:














 


Buying or Selling a Home? Here Are the Answers to Your Questions!

(Published on - 6/24/2025 7:30:04 PM)

 At Realty Executives Platinum, we know that buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make. Whether it’s your first time navigating the process, or you’ve been through it before, questions always come up.  We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get from both buyers and sellers in Dodge, Jefferson, and the surrounding counties.

 

FAQs for Buyers

1. How much can I afford?
This depends on your income, credit score, debts, and current interest rates. Getting pre-approved by a lender is the best first step—it shows sellers you're serious and helps you set a clear budget.

2. Do I get pre-approved first, or find a Realtor first?
We recommend getting pre-approved first, then finding a Realtor.  

3. How long does the buying process take?
Typically 30–50 days from offer acceptance to closing, but this can vary. 

4. How much do I need for a down payment?
It varies. Some loan programs offer downpayment assistance, while others required a minimum of 3% down. Your lender can help you find the right option for you!


FAQs for Sellers

 

1. How do I determine the right price for my home?
We provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that compares your home to similar properties recently sold in the area. Pricing right is key to attracting serious buyers.

2. How should I prepare my home for sale?
Start with decluttering and deep cleaning. For more detailed information, take a look at our Clean-it, Paint-it, Fix-it, Remove-it Guide

3. How long will it take to sell?
That depends on market conditions, location, pricing, and your home’s condition. Homes that are priced right and well-presented often sell faster.  Brad 

4. Should I be present during showings?
We recommend stepping out. Buyers feel more comfortable exploring the home and imagining themselves living there when the owner isn’t present.

5. What happens after I accept an offer?
After accepting an offer, we’ll be by your side to navigate the process through closing day.  Every sale is different, but this can include: home inspections, appraisals, well/septic inspections, and more!  


Still Have Questions? Let’s Talk.

 

No two real estate journeys are the same, and we're here to guide you with honest answers and personalized support. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in the Watertown area or across Dodge and Jefferson counties, let’s start a conversation today.

Questions? Need Advice? Complete this form for more information.

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How to Price Your Home Right, and Why it Matters!

(Published on - 6/24/2025 7:29:53 PM)

How to Price Your Home Right (And Why It Matters)

When it’s time to sell your home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is the asking price. It's more than just picking a number, it’s about strategy, timing, and understanding the local market. At Realty Executives Platinum, we’re here to help you price your home with precision and purpose.

So, why is pricing so crucial, and how do we help you get it right?


 The Danger of Overpricing

It’s tempting to “test the market” with a higher price.  However, this is not a reccomended strategy.  An overpriced home tends to sit longer, lose momentum, and ultimately sell for less than it could have with the right pricing strategy from the start.

Buyers today are savvy with a weatlth of information at their finger tips.  If your home doesn’t align with others in its range, buyers will scroll past it without a second thought. 


 How We Determine the Right Price

At Realty Executives Platinum, we take a data-driven approach tailored to your unique property. Here's how we do it:

1. Local Market Knowledge

We live and work in Dodge and Jefferson counties. That means we understand the local real estate trends that national sites just can’t see.

2. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

We provide a free, no-obligation comprehensive CMA that looks at:

  • Homes recently sold in your area

  • Current active listings (your competition)

  • Expired listings (what didn’t sell, and why)

This helps us anchor your home’s value in reality, not guesswork.

3. Property Condition and Features

Your home is unique. We evaluate the updates, finishes, location perks, and even curb appeal that can shift value.


 Why It Matters to You

The right price attracts the right buyers. It creates urgency, drives multiple offers, and increases the odds of closing at or above asking price.

On the flip side, overpricing can lead to:

  • Fewer showings

  • Longer days on market

  • Unnecessary price reductions

  • Appraisal issues if an offer is too high to be supported by data


 Our Promise to Sellers

We don’t believe in inflating expectations to entice sellers to enter into a poorly designed strategy. We believe in honesty, a data-backed strategy, and success ,and that starts with getting the price right.

If you’re thinking about selling, let’s talk. We’ll show you exactly how your home compares in today’s market and help you position it to sell, not sit.  Anyone can put a sign in the yard, Brad's Team can sell it!

Questions? Need Advice? Complete this form for more information.

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