Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate & Other News and Information

Coolest House Siding Ever

2012-02-11T10:43:00.002-06:00

This has to be the coolest, no pun intended, siding ever installed on a house! Ya, it is real veneered tree bark - being installed on a Waupaca Chain, Strongwood Homes, building project. Nice work Thad and company!

Walley World Fisheree - Tent Set up

2012-02-10T12:57:00.000-06:00

Organizers are setting up the Walley World Fisheree tent on Taylor Lake today in a snow storm. Forecast is: 16 degrees on Saturday with a wind chill of 25 below

Stu's Flooring & Design Center in Waupaca, Now Doing Granite Counters

2012-02-08T12:00:00.002-06:00

New Legislation Would Take Aim at Nonconforming Waterfront Property Regulations

2012-02-04T09:15:00.004-06:00

This Miner Lake, Waupaca Chain O' Lakes property to the left is clearly a non conforming property as it is to close to the shoreline....

From the Lakeland Times:
Bill would allow unlimited maintenance, repair; codify NR115

It's still in draft form, but lawmakers are readying legislation that would take aim at the state's regulation of nonconforming structures, principally by allowing unlimited maintenance and repair and moving state shoreland zoning standards from administrative rule rubric to statutory standard.

The Wisconsin Realtors Association requested the legislation, according to an article posted on its website by Tom Larson, the WRA's vice president of legal and public affairs.

For decades, the state's nonconforming statutory language, not to mention its regulatory companions, has shrouded homeowners in a cloud of uncertainty about what they can or cannot do with nonconforming structures. This new legislation, the WRA states, would remove that uncertainty.

The idea, the story states, is to clarify for property owners how they can repair, maintain and improve legal, nonconforming structures, or buildings that met zoning requirements when they were built but no longer do. As the WRA acknowledges, there are a variety of ways an existing structure can run afoul of changing dimensional requirements: setbacks, height, lot coverage ratio, impervious surface coverage, or "any other regulation relating to the size or the placement of a building on a lot."

Unlimited maintenance and repair

First, the legislation would allow property owners to perform unlimited maintenance and repair.

"While zoning ordinances will change over time, such changes should not prevent or place artificial limits on the ability of property owners to maintain and repair their existing homes and buildings," the WRA states. "Protecting the ability of property owners to keep their homes in good condition and make necessary repairs will help encourage greater investment in homes, buildings and older neighborhoods."

Specifically, the WRA points out, the legislation would allow owners of nonconforming structures to maintain and repair their homes without limitations on the dollar value of such maintenance or repairs.

That would be a significant change because even under the state's revised shoreland administrative code, NR115, local governments can - and do - still impose the so-called 50-percent rule, which limits repairs, alterations and additions to nonconforming structures to 50 percent of a structure's equalized value.

Perhaps the most important change under the proposed measure would be to codify into law the regulatory framework of NR115.

"By placing this framework into the statutes, local governments would be effectively prohibited from enacting and enforcing regulations that are more restrictive," the WRA states.

That's important, the story continues, because even though the revised NR115 represents what the group calls "a more reasonable approach to regulating nonconforming waterfront homes and substandard lots," local governments are free to transcend them, including but not limited to the 50-percent rule.

"While these regulations achieve a better balance between private property rights and environmental protection, Wisconsin's shoreland zoning regulations are only minimum standards," the WRA states. "This means that local governments can adopt more restrictive regulations on nonconforming waterfront homes."

So, for example, while substandard lots may be built upon under NR115 if they have never been merged with adjacent lots, the WRA observes, a local government could prohibit such building or require them to be merged with adjacent lots under one owner.

The same is true of allowing unlimited maintenance and repair, or vertical expansion up to 35 feet between 35 feet and 75 feet of the water if local mitigation requirements are satisfied.

The accumulation of local restrictions affects property values, the WRA states.

"These restrictions impact the value of the property because purchasers are obviously unwilling to pay the same amount for a home with these restrictions as they would for the same home with no restrictions," the group asserted. "In addition, lenders are reluctant to offer financing because these homes are considered 'higher risk' due to the fact that restrictions placed on the ability to maintain, repair and improve these structures reduces the functional life on the structures."

A significant concession

That the WRA recognizes the need for nonconforming legislation signals a marked departure from its previous position. The WRA was in fact one of the most influential partners with the DNR in rewriting NR115, and signed off on the final version.

In so doing, the organization touted the rule's language on nonconformity as one of its strongest points precisely because it allowed unlimited ordinary maintenance and repair, as well as expansion in certain circumstances. As such, though new impervious surface requirements might make many existing homes nonconforming, it no longer practically mattered.

Larson said the protections for nonconforming structures mattered most for the WRA.

"The biggest thing was the nonconforming structures," Larson told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He told the Chicago Tribune the same thing, calling the proposal, according to the newspaper, a fair compromise, especially for owners of nonconforming structures.

"You can basically keep what you have," he was quoted as saying.

The problem was, though that's what the rule stated, that's not what state statutes said was necessarily true, a fact the WRA is now acknowledging.

Indeed, in addition to the 50-percent rule, the law continues to allow counties to simply forbid any nonconforming residential structures to exist at all, and it endows towns with the same powers. The only restriction the statutes place on the elimination of nonconforming uses pertain to trade and industry, not residential ones.

The law reads: "An ordinance enacted under this section may not prohibit the continuance of the lawful use of any building, premises, structure, or fixture for any trade or industry for which such building, premises, structure, or fixture is used at the time that the ordinances take effect, but the alteration of, or addition to, or repair in excess of 50 percent of its assessed value of any existing building, premises, structure, or fixture for the purpose of carrying on any prohibited trade or new industry within the district where such buildings, premises, structures, or fixtures are located, may be prohibited."

To be sure, there is no evidence any municipality has tried to phase out or eliminate a nonconforming home based on that statutory allowance, but the language exists nonetheless.

Second Chain O' Lakes Property Sale in 2012

2012-02-04T07:54:00.001-06:00

Property sales on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes are off to a good start in 2012, with a second sale. A 2,175 Sq Ft, 4 bedroom home with 122 feet of water frontage on Miner Lake has sold. The property was most recently listed for $699,000. It is rare for waterfront homes to sell when the ice is covering the lakes but, this year there have been two sold.

For a complete report and analysis of Waupaca Chain O' Lakes real estate sales or to get a complete list of all Waupaca Chain properties for sale please go to: www.WaupacaWaterfront.com

Thinking of selling Waupaca Chain O' Lakes real estate? Get a 16 page report which will help you attract out of town buyers and sell for the highest possible price go to: www.SellMyChainProperty.com

At Minus 2 Degrees This Morning this Activity Looks...

2012-01-19T12:23:00.000-06:00

Thinking of Selling Waterfront Property

2012-01-18T12:35:00.000-06:00

First Waupaca Chain Property Sale of the Year!

2012-01-17T19:45:00.000-06:00

It is rare indeed, for a Chain property to sell in January however, this Waupaca Chain, bank owned, Dake Lake home just sold after being on the market for almost 5 years. The original listing price was for $995,000 while the most recent listing was $589,000. The property has 80 feet of frontage on Dake Lake, 3,600 Sq Ft of living space and 4 bedrooms.

Corey at Peterson Marine is preparing to repower the Waupaca Chain Skiers boat – installing 2 big new Mercury engines.

2012-01-17T11:47:00.000-06:00

Low Level Air Plane - Chain Fly Over

2011-12-10T14:45:00.002-06:00

Neat fly over of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes - You Tube video taken at a low level. Click Here

Go South, Go South - Will These Geese Get Froze Into Miner Lake

2011-12-10T13:39:00.001-06:00

Proposed Legislation Seeks to Modify Pier Regulations ... Again

2011-12-10T05:45:00.009-06:00

By: From Wisconsin Realtors Association by Tom Larson VP of Legal & Public Affairs for the Wisconsin Realtors Association

As part of Gov. Walker’s special session on jobs, legislation was introduced that seeks to streamline the permitting process and simplify regulations related to activities near navigable waterways. This legislation, SS AB 24/SS SB 24, makes a number of modifications important to waterfront property owners, including simplifying the pier grandfathering standards, protecting the ability of waterfront property owners to place a pier, and allowing unlimited maintenance and repair to wet boathouses.

Simplifying Pier Grandfathering Standards

Since the Pier Protection Act (2007 Wisconsin Act 204) was enacted into law in 2008, waterfront property owners have been confused about the pier grandfathering standards. The following is a list of pier regulations that have caused the most confusion:

•Location of platforms: If the platform is located near the shore, in the middle of the pier, five feet from the end of pier or anywhere else except at the very end of the pier, the platform is illegal and the pier cannot be grandfathered.

•Size of platforms (existing piers): If the platform is 12-by-20 feet or 240 square feet, the pier cannot be grandfathered. However, if the platform is 10-by-30 feet or 300 square feet, the pier can be grandfathered.

•Size of platforms (new piers): To add even more confusion, platforms on new piers have no overall square foot limitations. The only limitation is that they can be no wider than eight feet and cannot interfere with your neighbor’s riparian rights. As a result, a new pier can have a platform that is larger with more square footage than an existing grandfathered pier.

•Registration requirement: Requiring property owners to register their piers with the DNR to be grandfathered has been unsuccessful. During the last three years, less than half of the estimated 8 to 10,000 piers required to register with the DNR actually did. Those owners that did register often experienced significant processing delays, up to nine months, and experienced confusion regarding where the form can be filed. The law allows the form to be filed with the DNR or local registers of deeds.

SS AB 24/SS SB 24 clarifies the law by:

1.Grandfathering all piers placed before the effective date of the bill.

2.Allowing new piers to be placed without a permit if the surface area of the platform does not exceed 200 square feet, with no dimensional requirements or limits as to where the platform may be located on the pier.

3.Eliminating the registration requirement.

Right to Place a Pier

For over 140 years, Wisconsin courts have recognized that waterfront property owners have a right to place a pier. This right to place a reasonably sized pier without a permit has been codified in the Wisconsin Statutes. However under current pier regulations, this right does not apply if the pier is located in an area of special natural resource interest (ASNRI). If a property is located in an ANSRI, the owner must obtain a general permit in order to place a pier, which means that the property owner is not guaranteed the right to place a pier.

•The definition of ASNRI is overly broad. The definition of ASNRI includes any “area that possesses significant scientific value, as identified by the DNR.” This definition is vague and gives the DNR the discretion to designate any area to be an ASNRI. In fact, the term has been interpreted to mean not just a specific area in a lake, but the entire lake in some cases. As a result, property owners are being forced to go through a general permit process and are uncertain as to whether they can place a pier.

SS AB 24/SS SB 24 clarifies that the DNR may impose conditions on the location, design, construction and installation of a pier located in ASNRI waters, but the DNR may not prohibit the owner from placing a pier. This provision is intended to allow the DNR to determine the size, location and design of a pier to avoid any adverse impacts to sensitive areas like fish spawning areas and other sensitive habitats, but also protects the right of waterfront property owners to place a pier to access the waterway.

Unlimited Maintenance and Repair of Boathouses - Under current law, a limit is placed on the ability of property owners to maintain and repair boathouses located below the OHWM. The limit is equal to 50 percent of the assessed value of the boathouse, which is intended to eventually eliminate these boathouses by forcing them to fall into disrepair.

The “50 percent rule” has been unfair to property owners because it applies retroactively to existing boathouses that were legal when originally constructed. Moreover, the rule has proven difficult to enforce because it is almost impossible for county zoning administrators to keep track of each dollar spent on necessary paint, boards and roofing shingles. As a result, it encourages property owners to be dishonest about what they have spent on repairs and maintenance.

SS AB 24/SS SB 24 eliminates the 50 percent rule and allows unlimited maintenance and repair to these existing boathouses that were constructed before 1979. This would allow property owners to “keep what they have” but does not allow the boathouses to be expanded. Moreover, allowing unlimited maintenance and repairs to existing, nonconforming boathouses would make these regulations consistent with recent changes to Wisconsin’s Shoreland Zoning Regulations (Wis. Admin. Code Ch. NR 115) which eliminated application of the 50 percent rule to nonconforming structures and now allows unlimited maintenance and repairs to these structures.

Ice Finally Forms on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-12-09T20:16:00.000-06:00

As usual, Bruce at Becker Marine got the last of his boats out of the water just before the ice formed on Limekiln Lake last night. If you were up very early or if you stayed up very late and lived on the lakes, you saw the almost full moan shinning across the newly formed, crystal clear ice. I was still in bed but, my wife said it was a neat thing to see, looking west across Miner Lake as the moon went down.

Chain Access Property Sells

2011-12-07T22:34:00.000-06:00

This 3 bedroom home on Crestwood Drive, off of Hwy 54, sold in November. The property is not a waterfront home but does have deeded access to Otter Lake on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes. There are many very nice homes on Crestwood Drive with this same type of access to the Chain. Most recently, the property was listed for $250,000.

New House in the Neighborhood

2011-12-07T21:16:00.002-06:00

A beautiful new house is being constructed by Waupaca Strongwood Log Homes, right next door to our home. We are having a wonderful time watching it be built. Thad Marcom, owner of Strongwood, called when the project first started, to say it might get ugly at times with trucks blocking our narrow road and our driveway. Thad and all his contractors have been great to work with as they have worked very well with all the neighbors! We even let Thad and his contractors use our yard to build pieces and parts for the new home and to store material. Everyone in the neighborhood is having fun watching….

Waupaca Chain Run So I'll be Ready to Eat Turkey Dinner

2011-11-24T13:08:00.001-06:00

StrongWood Log Homes Open House Today

2011-11-12T10:30:00.002-06:00

From Strongwood Log & Timber Homes Face Book page

Open House Saturday, November 12th! Strongwood is harvesting new ideas and is inviting YOU to feast with us. Come in from the cold, take a tour, chat with us. Delicious treats and a cozy, warm fire... ..guaranteed. 10am-2pm, this Saturday. Don't miss it! 711 Shadow Rd Waupaca

Early Season Snow Storm Challenges Chain Residents

2011-11-09T18:37:00.001-06:00

A wet heavy snow today caused many trees to lay down on the power lines, causing lots of Chain residents to be without power. Wheel House is open tonight however, JR’s was without power for most of the day.

Three Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Waterfront Home Builders Race To Get Their Waupaca Chain Building Projects Closed In Before The Snow Flies

2011-11-06T14:15:00.002-06:00

Three homes are being built around the Chain this fall on Rainbow, McCrossen and Miner Lakes.

Fall Oak Tree Colors are Great on the Wau-King Trail Hwy Q to Hwy 22

2011-10-27T17:49:00.000-05:00

Walley World Works to Keep Smokers Warm Near the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-10-26T14:47:00.003-05:00

Wally World Tavern owners in King work quickly to close in their smokers as the fall breezes exhale. What was once a smoking deck becomes a smoking room.

Miner Lake Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Resident..... Good Job!

2011-10-23T22:38:00.003-05:00

Sold, Sold and Sold Again on Round Lake, Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-10-18T21:19:00.003-05:00

For the forth time in 13 years this Round Lake property has sold.

The property has 80 ft of water frontage, 4 bedrooms and over 2,500 sq ft of living space.

The last listing price was $728,900

As has been the case with Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate in this price range, this one sold above the "fair market" tax assessment value

Triple Q Storage Gets A New BOLDER BRIGHTER Sign While King Storage Signs About the Same

2011-10-18T20:56:00.004-05:00

New Bee Paint, Same "Bee" Color

2011-10-18T20:55:00.001-05:00

The old Busy Bee on Hwy Q, gets a fresh coat of paint

Click "Older Posts" at the Bottom of the Page to See More Waupaca Chain General and Real Estate News

2011-10-13T18:54:00.000-05:00

Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate Sales Report

2011-10-12T08:55:00.000-05:00

After a very slow start to the summer waterfront selling season this year, Chain real estate sales picked up recently so it looks like there will be about the same number of property sales this year as last year: 7 this year so far and 9 last year. Rumor has it that there is one more Chain property about to close. By comparison, in 2007 there were 15 property transfers. So, clearly, the economy is still affecting waterfront property sales. There have been no vacant land sales this year to date.

A few interesting observations:

Last year’s trend has continued regarding the lower end of Chain property sales.

This year there were two sales under $250,000 and one was way under $250,000. And, there were no sales between $250,000 and $450,000 yet there are 16 properties for sale on the Chain under $450,000. Last year there were also two sales under $450,000 and both were rather close to $450,000. Clearly, the lower end of Chain properties, just are not selling.

Of the 5 other sales this years, the highest was $695,000.

So, the reality is, the lower end is not selling well, there are some sales in the middle and this year, there were no higher end sales. Last year there were two sales over $700,000 and both were considerably over $700,000.

I get asked a lot about why property taxes are so high on the Chain and what can be done about it. Well, here are the facts: the two sales this year at the lower end of the Chain properties were both below their tax assessment fair market value. Four of the five sales in the middle were sold above their “fair market value.” This is the same trend we saw last year. So, the reality is: the lower end of Chain properties may have to high of a tax fair market value and the middle and upper properties may still have to low of a tax fair market value, even in today’s recessionary times.

Fall on the Chain - What a Great Time of the Year

2011-10-08T10:38:00.001-05:00

With the warm temps, it is a great time to get out and experience all the fall colors around the Chain. Took a little jog around the lakes last night.... Boating today?

Miner Lake is Hot, Hot, Hot - Real Estate Sales That Is...

2011-10-07T11:16:00.001-05:00

Three properties have sold on Miner Lake on the Waupaca Chain so far this year. And two were in the mid price range. Who says no one wants to buy on the small quiet lakes?

This property was on the market for a short period of time, was most recently listed for $699,000 and sold above the assessed “fair market” value. The property has 186 feet of frontage and a 2,078 Sq Ft home.

Steve Jobs Brillance...

2011-10-06T10:21:00.000-05:00

Learned this week, I was born the same year as Steve Jobs…
You already know the brilliance of Mr. Jobs. A personal observation…

A few years after Apple invented their first personal computer, IBM came out with a personal computer too. Then Co...mpaq cloned the IBM PC and I was ready to buy. $2,995, if I remember correctly, for 2 disks drives, no software and a 8 inch screen. The store required $1,000 down, to get on the waiting list, and then, we had 3 days when the Compaq PC came in to pay the balance or lose the deposit.

Shortly after that, the publishing company I worked for bought 2 Apple “fat” Macs, an Apple laser printer and some software. Our other option for typesetting ads at the time was a proprietary machine for $96,000

A few years later, Apple had come out with higher end machines that we coupled with a desktop scanner and for about $50,000 the publishing company I worked for saved $400,000 verses buying a dedicated proprietary scanner for the business.

Yes, I am old enough to have witnessed Mr. Jobs brilliance first hand – way before iPods, iPhones and iPads.

My First Computer - Again $2,995

White House Christmass Tree Chosen from Local Farm

2011-10-03T13:57:00.002-05:00

White House Christmass tree is being cut just south of Waupaca!

From WBAY - Click here

Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate Sold on Miner Lake

2011-10-01T11:05:00.003-05:00

A “Spec House” has sold on Miner Lake. A cottage was torn down at this location back in 2007 and a new home was built on the site. The property has 75 feet of frontage. The new home has 2,500 Sq Ft and was most recently listed for $725,000. The property sold above the assessment “fair market” value.

Miner Lake real estate is hot, Hot, HOT…

Three properties have sold on Miner Lake on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes in the last couple of months. And, two out of three of the buyers were clients of RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons!

If you would like more information about Waupaca Chain O' Lakes real estate whether you are “hoping” to sell or “thinking” of buying call a Realtor who lives on the Chain and who tracks what is going on around the Chain, so you do not have to.

Wondering what your place might sell for? Get a no pressure comparative market analysis.

Recently two Chain property owners called for an analysis of their property. Neither is selling immediately however both wanted information so: for a no obligation – free consultation by a waterfront real estate expert. Steve@Huhta.com or 920-889-9989

Thinking of buying waterfront real estate? Don’t over pay! Call a waterfront real estate expert who tracks pricing daily so again, you do not have to.

Crystal River Trip - Shoes Gone...

2011-09-30T11:44:00.001-05:00

Someone took all the shoes that were on the rocks by the Crystal River, by the ParfreyvilleChurch Hall Park and put them in the dumpster....

Lost shoe - Where are you, where do you go?

2011-09-19T15:48:00.000-05:00

It was a busy summer for the Crystal River canoe trips. Check out all the lost shoes at the Parfreyville park!

Kwik Trip Update

2011-09-15T17:30:00.002-05:00

There are lots of rumors flying around about the new Kwik Trip stores in Waupaca…

The Kwik Trip Store being built on the corner of Hwy QQ and Hwy 54/Fulton St is nearing completion with an opening planned for around the 20th of next month.

Kwik Trip met with the City of Waupaca Planning Commission last night to discuss their plans for building a second new store across the street from the exiting Kwik Trip Store in downtown Waupaca, on Fulton St. The planning commission approved all the various motions necessary to move this project ahead. City council will take up the matter at next week’s meeting. There are still some contingencies to be worked out however, the project seems to be moving ahead with a closing on the needed properties by yearend and construction of the new building starting in the spring for 2012. The new downtown store will be the same size as the one currently being built on the west side of the City. Franklin St., between the current Cas Liquor building and the Mane Event property will remain open.

Lots of Work Being Done at the King Vets Home this Summer

2011-09-14T09:26:00.001-05:00

Work begins on the water tower in King

Waupaca Chain Homes Sells on Nessling Lake

2011-09-13T11:17:00.002-05:00

A waterfront home on Nessling Lake has sold recently. The property has 67 feet of frontage and over 2,000 sq ft of living space. The last listing price was $650,000.

If you would like more information about Waupaca Chain O' Lakes properties for sale or if you are curious what your property might sell for please call or EM.

Last week I did 2 free, no obligation comparative market analyses for Chain home owners to help them learn the value of their property. Neither owners listed their property for sale as both were just interested in knowing what their property might sell for. I track Chain property values daily, so you do not have to.

Recently, 4 waterfront property owners interviewed several different local Realtors before listing their waterfront property. In all four cases, after looking at the different marketing plans, Steve Huhta and RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons listed the properties. If you are considering selling be sure to call and see why our creative marketing plan is winning almost every time.

Hoping to sell or, thinking of buying Waupaca Chain O' Lakes property? Hire a Realtor who lives on the Chain and who knows what is going on around the Chain!

Steve Huhta, RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons
Waterfront property expert
Steve@Huhta.com
920-889-9989

As Temperatures Cool, Home Building and Property Sales Heat Up Around the Chain

2011-09-13T10:22:00.005-05:00

Three new homes are now under construction around the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes and a couple properties have sold recently. Additionally, a few more Chain homes for sale are now under contract.

A home was just torn down on Rainbow Lake to make way for a new construction home. The property changed hand back in late 2009. It is great to see new construction happening on the Chain!

Hoping to sell or, thinking of buying Waupaca Chain O' Lakes property? Hire a Realtor who lives on the Chain and who knows what is going on around the Chain!

Steve Huhta, RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons
Waterfront property expert
Steve@Huhta.com
920-889-9989

Vacant Land Parcel Sells - with Access to Otter Lake

2011-09-07T22:45:00.000-05:00

This vacant land parcel sold recently on Crestwood Drive (on the corner of Hwy 54). The property is not a waterfront parcel but it does have deeded access to Otter Lake on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes. It is the last vacant land parcel for sale on Crestwood Drive. Steve Huhta, RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons, represented the seller of this parcel. The most recent listing for this parcel was $84,900.

Results of Friday's Storm - Limekiln Lake Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-09-06T14:38:00.001-05:00

Very sad to see! No electric and a tree on your boat - that is an ugly way to start a holiday weekend.

Some of the Reasons the Wheel House Had to Experience the Slowest Friday Night Ever!

2011-09-03T21:14:00.001-05:00

Every one of these downed trees caught a power line on the way down, after the big storm Friday AM. And, all were very near the Wheel House on Hwy Q. The Chain Icon Restaurant had no power all day Friday hence, it was very quiet there.

Power Lines and Trees Were Not the Only Thing Knocked Down Around the Chain

2011-09-03T20:44:00.005-05:00

Harbor Bar sign takes a nap!
Picture by Ty Helbach

New Poles Ready for Harbor Sign

No Power Around the Chain - Here is One Reason

2011-09-03T20:39:00.001-05:00

On the Corner or Hwy Q and E Miner Dr - Across from the old Busy Bee

Watch the YouTube video by Brian Hansen

Miner Lake - Waupaca Chain Property Sells

2011-08-30T21:25:00.001-05:00

Click Here for lots more Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate and other news and info.

The above Miner Lake property, which was listed by Remax Shambeau Lyons sold recently. The initial listing price was $299,000 for this one bedroom cottage with 162 feet of frontage.

Hoping to sell or thinking of buying Waupaca Chain Real Estate? Call a Realtor who knows what is going on around the Chain:

Steve Huhta - ReMax Shambeau Lyons 920-889-9989 or em to Steve@Huhta.com

Many of Nebraska Sen. George Norris's heirlooms, from the late senator’s Waupaca Chain O' Lakes vacation cottage, have been to return to Nebraska

2011-08-12T14:24:00.004-05:00

Many Waupaca residents know that US senator Norris had a cottage on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes.

The cottage was recently listed for sale and still contained lots of the late senator’s memorabilia. An auction, started last weekend and continued this weekend, is being held to sell the heirlooms in the cottage.

From the Appleton Post Crescent:

Norris, who died in 1944 at age 83, served 10 years in the U.S. House of Representative before winning a Senate seat, which he held from 1913 until 1943. Norris was the primary force behind the Rural Electrification Act, which brought electric service to rural areas across the country, and he is credited as the architect of Nebraska's unicameral legislature.

He was a Republican for most of his career. For the balance of the Postcrescent article click here

From the McCook Daily Gazette: With the help of George W. Norris's great-grandson, the most precious heirlooms from the late senator's vacation cottage in Waupaca, Wisconsin have been saved for perpetual public display in McCook, Nebraska, the community which was Norris' home during the last half of his life.

David Norris Rath, who traveled by plane and car to the estate sale in Waupaca on behalf of his family and the Norris Foundation, was given top priority for purchases at the sale. He had been dispatched to attend the sale by his parents; the Norris Foundation, which authorized spending of $5,000 for Norris estate items; and Sen. Ben Nelson, who donated $2,500 of his personal funds plus $5,000 from the Norris Institute to acquire historical items at the sale.

Seizing the opportunity, Rath acquired some of the most treasured items in Sen. Norris's Waupaca cottage. Topping the list were 13 original political cartoons, of which four were acquired by the George W. Norris Foundation and nine were purchased by the George Norris Rath family. Total cost for the political cartoons, including the sales commission, was $6,727.50. The cartoons include original artwork by Clifford K. Berryman, a Pulitzer prize winning cartoonist for the Washington Star newspaper from 1907 to 1949.
For more of the Gazette’s story click this link

The Historic Christie House, Lake St., Waupaca Open for Public Tours

2011-08-12T11:52:00.001-05:00

The Christie House & Gardens will be open for tours Saturday August 20th from 10 AM to 5 PM. Cost is $8. This is the first time in more than a decade that the home has been open for tours. For more information and a good article about the property, click this link to the County Post

A Great Picture

2011-08-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

My friend Gordie - Bare foot on the River...

Chain Skiers at Nationals

2011-08-08T14:40:00.000-05:00

The Waupaca Chain Skiers finished 10th overall in the National Show Ski Association's tournament in Tomahawk last weekend. Click here for all the results.

Waupaca County Spent $54,000 Improving Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes – Taylor Lake Boat Landing

2011-08-08T00:28:00.003-05:00

Commenting at the annual meeting of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes District, County Official Roger Holman, stated that the County spent about $54,000 on improvements at the Taylor Lake landing recently. These improvements included new concrete pads under the water and new payment around the boat landing.

Waupaca County Sheriff Makes Report to Waupaca Chain O' Lakes District Meeting

2011-08-08T00:05:00.000-05:00

Waupaca County Sheriff, Brad Hardel, speaking at the annual meeting of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes District’s annual meeting, gave the following report:

The boat patrol officers have written a total of 23 citations so far this summer. And, the water patrol has made 7 arrests for boating while intoxicated on the Chain.

The Sheriff said that there have been no accidents reported on the Chain so far this year and, overall, complaints are down compared to last year. There were 67 complaints called in last year and only 28 so far this year. Sheriff Hardel added that most of the complaints are about excessive noise, usually loud music, from boaters.

County Park Lane Gets Rebuilt & Widened

2011-08-05T13:54:00.003-05:00

Work started Friday on County Park Lane off of Hwy Q just East of the Wheel House. Crews were also trimming back the trees on this Lane. This road has become a popular boat trailer parking area on the weekends.

What is Being Build on the Corner of Hwy QQ and Hwy 54, Across From the Waupaca Truck Stop?

2011-07-30T16:08:00.002-05:00

Most Waupaca residents know what is being built on this corner however, with so many summer residents and tourist in town…. A Kwik Trip convenience store is being built on this corner. The project includes: an almost 10,000 Sq Ft store, room for 60 parking spaces, a large liquor store, diesel pumps and 2 car washes. The property will have entrances off of Hwy 54 using what is now the JR’s Sportsman’s Bar entrance and off of Hwy QQ north of Save On Furniture.

From the Journal Sentinel:

“Kwik Trip announced a three-year growth plan in December that calls for a continuation of its 20-store-per-year expansion. Over the next three years, that means an additional 2,000 jobs, including as many as 600 in La Crosse, to support the operation: truckers, food production and distribution center workers.
The company employs about 9,800 people at its 409 stores in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa, including 1,000 at its sprawling headquarters and food plants in La Crosse.”

For the balance of a very interesting article about Kwik Trip in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Click Here

Please Click Older Posts at the Bottom for More Waupaca Chain Info

2011-07-26T17:56:00.000-05:00

He builds in the summer or the winter...

Building a Boat Life on the Ice - Miner Lake, Waupaca Chain O' Lakes
By Larry Gordon, Water Front Specialties - Waupaca

For Waupaca Chain O' Lakes real estate information please call a Realtor who lives on the Chain and who had this boat lift built: Steve Huhta RE/MAX Shambeau & Lyons 715-942-2400.

www.WaupacaLiving.com To search Waupaca area or Chain O’ Lake real estate listings

www.WaupacaChainOLakes.com For tons of information about the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes area

ReMax Shambeau & Lyons has been helping Chain buyers and sellers for over 25 years

Chain Skiers Advance to National Competition

2011-07-26T11:31:00.001-05:00

All Waupacee area folks should be very proud of the Waupaca Chain Skiers!

They placed 3rd in D2 at state last weekend.

The team is now headed to the Nationals, in 2 weeks, for the first time ever.

Wauapca Chain O Lakes Property Sells....

2011-07-25T14:47:00.003-05:00

A property on Rainbow Lake, with 102 feet of frontage, has sold on Rainbow Lake. The property was most recently listed for $595,000.

Thinking of buying property on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes?
Hoping to sell waterfront property?

The Agent you hire does make a difference!

Hire a agent who:

lives on the Chain
is a waterfront property expert
has 30 years of marketing experience
is an internet marketing expert
has extensive experience with waterfront property deals

Steve Huhta - ReMax Shambeau Lyons 920-889-9989
Steve@Huhta.com

Annual Wheel House Corn Roast.....

2011-07-23T12:20:00.000-05:00

....ROASTING both the corn and the corn roast crew, on a hot Waupaca Chain O' Lakes day!

Tis the Season.... Flowers in Bloom all Around the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes...

2011-07-22T12:29:00.001-05:00

....And, so is the Invasive Species - Purple Loosestrife. click photo for larger image.

High Winds Hit Just South of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-07-19T07:44:00.001-05:00

Dayton Rd, off of Hwy 22, South of the Chain was hit with very high winds Monday morning. Lots of trees were blown down. click a photo below for a larger view.

It took this resident several hour to clean the drive way of his residence.

1912 & 1923 Plat Maps of Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate

2011-07-17T15:49:00.003-05:00

Notice the large tracks of land owned around the Chain in 1923. Double click the image to see a larger version.

Next image is a 1912 version of the same area.

Taylor Lake Cottage Sells - Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate News

2011-07-16T10:58:00.001-05:00

After being for sale for over two years a cottage on Taylor Lake changed hands in July, at significantly below tax bill "Fair Market" value. The property has 43 feet of frontage, 2 bedrooms and less than 1,000 sq ft of living space. The last MLS listing price was $250,000.

For a complete list of Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate for sale or sold www.WaupacaWaterfront.com

Or, contact Steve Huhta, REMAX Shambeau Lyons Steve@Huhta.com or 920-889-9989

I watch Chain Real Estate sales and listings daily so you do not have to!

Rainbow Lake Cottage Sells - Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate

2011-07-11T11:38:00.000-05:00

This Rainbow Lake cottage on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes sold recently. The property has 102 Ft of water frontage, 1,400 + sq ft of living space and sold for less than fair market assessed value. The last MLS listing price was $595,000

Boat Load of Parking Tickets

2011-07-05T19:20:00.000-05:00

The Waupaca Sherriff’s department wrote a boat load of parking tickets, around the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes boat landings, on West Miner Drive and Cleghorn Road, during the recent 4th of July weekend.

Another - Huge Fireworks Display on Round Lake Saturday Night

2011-07-04T16:09:00.000-05:00

Tons of boats jammed Round Lake Saturday night on the Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes for what has become a July 4th tradition: A huge fireworks display. No one was disappointed based on the loud cheers at the end of the show.

Numerous Trees Blew Down Friday Night on the East Shore of Miner Lake

2011-07-03T15:48:00.004-05:00

No serious damage was done by this falling tree but, lots of holiday weekend work was created for the owners of this Miner Lake home

On the same road, this tree took down the chimney on side of this Waupaca Chain O' Lake Home

June 2011 Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate Report

2011-06-28T12:29:00.003-05:00

June 2011

As a Realtor, the question I get asked most is, how many properties are currently for sale on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes:

Answer: 56 total, plus 3 vacant lots for sale. this number changes on a week to week base but, the number has been above 50 on a regular basis lately.

There are about 850 properties on the Chain – according to most people’s estimates.

So, 6.5 % of all the homes on the Chain are now for sale.

Next, many people ask: How are properties selling on the Chain:

• 9 Chain properties sold last year
• 9 Chain properties sold the previous year 2009
• 10 sold in 2008
• 15 sold in 2007

And, just one property has sold, so far this year - 2011

Recently a couple of people have asked me to help them appeal their property tax assessment so, here is some data water front property owners might find interesting.

In 2009, out of 9 property sales, only 2 transferred for under “fair market accessed value.” And, both of the under fair market value sales were at the lower end side of sales for the year.

In 2010 out of 9 property sales, only 3 sold for under “fair market accessed value.” These 3 were again, on the lower side of the scale.

In the past 2 ½ years – 7 properties under $500,000 have sold
In the same period – only 4 properties under $400,000 have sold
And, there are currently 25 properties for sale under $500,000 on the Chain.

There are approximately 49 properties doing summer rentals on the Chain – based on ads appearing on the two most popular vacation rental web sites.

In 2010:

Properties listed in the MLS sold for 93% of their last listing price.
And, the same properties sold for only 75% of their original listing price.

Thinking of buying waterfront property? For a complete list of all Waupaca Chain O' Lakes or all recreational (water skiing) lakes for sale in Waupaca or Waushara Counties: www.WaupacaWaterfront.com

Hoping to sell? Hire a Realtor who is a waterfront property expert and someone who understands how to sell waterfront property: lives on a lake: Miner Lake, Waupaca Chain O' Lakes. Someone who knows waterfront issues: past president and current board member of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Property Owners Association. And, with 95% of real estate buyers starting their search on line, hire an Internet marketing Maniac: example: www.Taylor-Lake.com .

For a complete list of all Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Vaction Rentals: www.WaupacaChainRentals.com

For more general information about the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes: www.WaupacaChainOLakes.com

Sad!

2011-06-15T16:35:00.004-05:00

Corner Hwy 22 and Old 22 - the guy who put up this sign is not the land owner. Rather someone trying to get a small "market" going for the people in this part of town. I know how very expensive signs are so, this is SAD.

Cheesie Bob's New "Pithy" Sign

2011-06-15T16:12:00.003-05:00

This is just to good! But again, you have to be local - local to understand it.

Two Interesting Articles in the Waupaca County Post Relating to Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Parks

2011-06-13T23:13:00.010-05:00

The Waupaca County Post just ran two very interesting Waupaca Chain O' Lakes related stories:

The first, about Whipering Pines park which over looks Marl Lake, on the Upper Chain. If you have not been there, most people fine it is worth the walk!

For the story Link go to WaupacaNow.com

The second article is also about Marl Lake, regarding why the "State DNR Romoved a Park Pier." Follow this link for the complete story on the County Post web site: WaupacaNow.com

Chain, Chain and more Chain articles in the County Post this week as they featured the "Chain" with two front page stories about the Upper Chain - Marl Lake and then, the final story on the Post's front page, about the Chain School's future.

How Many Properties Are For Sale on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes?

2011-06-12T21:26:00.005-05:00

How many properties are for sale on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes is the question I get asked the most when I’m out and about in Waupaca. As people drive around the Chain they are seeing tons of Realtor "for sale" signs so everyone is curious.

The answer is: it was been rotating around 49 to 55 parcels for sale with a home/cottage on the property and 3 or 4 vacant land parcels, who’s owners hope to sell.

Last year, 9 properties changed hands – Sold - with about the same selling the previous year. In 2007 fifteen properties sold on the Chain.

One Chain parcel has sold so far this year.

Thinking of buying Waupaca Chain O' Lakes property: www.WaupacaWaterfront.com for a complete list

Motorcycles Line Up at Chain BP for ALS Benefit Ride

2011-06-11T11:24:00.003-05:00

White Swan Cottages For Sale on Taylor Lake

2011-06-10T21:20:00.002-05:00

White Swan Cottages, on Taylor Lake, consists of 3 cottages and a main residence and has been an icon on Taylor Lake for a long, long time. Call today for more informaiton Steve Huhta 920-889-9989 or Email Steve@Huhta.com

Wisconsin Pier Registration Deadline Extended

2011-06-07T06:44:00.002-05:00

From the Wisconsin Real Estate Magazine:
Pier Registration Deadline Extended
By: Tom Larson

On May 11, 2011, the Wisconsin Legislature passed Senate Bill 59, which extends the pier registration deadline until April 11, 2012. Governor Walker has indicated he will sign the bill into law very soon.

Background

In 2004, lawmakers adopted new dimensional standards for piers. While these new standards were intended to apply only to new piers (those installed for the first time after 2004), some regulators attempted to apply them retroactively to existing piers. As a result, thousands of existing piers could have been declared illegal and been forced to be removed or downsized.
In 2007, Wisconsin lawmakers passed a law (2007 Wisconsin Act 204) that grandfathered 99 percent of existing piers from new pier dimensional standards. The new law contains three size classifications of existing piers – small, medium and large. Owners of small piers do not require a permit or need to be registered, and owners of medium-sized piers must register with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Owners of large piers must obtain a permit from the DNR.

To qualify for grandfathering, a medium-sized pier must meet the following requirements:

Date – must have been originally placed prior to February 6, 2004
Width – no more than 8-feet wide
Platforms – a larger deck/platform is allowed as long as it is located at the lakeward end of the pier and the platform has a surface area of:
200 sq. ft. or less (may be any width), or
Between 200 sq. ft. and 300 sq. ft, if the deck/platform is no wider than 10 feet.
Registration deadline – must register with the DNR by April 1, 2011.

The DNR estimates 10,000 property owners were required to register their piers by April 1, 2011 in order to be grandfathered. However, only four to 5,000 registrations were received by the April 1, 2011, deadline.

If a property owner fails to register a medium-sized pier by the deadline, the pier will not be grandfathered and it must be downsized or replaced entirely to be brought into compliance. In some cases, this could be a significant expense to the property owner.

Number of Boat Hoists

The most common reason for a property owner to register a pier isn’t the size of the pier or the platform, but the number of boat slips or hoists. Under the pier regulations adopted in 2004, a pier is allowed two boat hoists for the first 50 feet of water frontage and one additional boat hoist for each additional 50 feet of water frontage on the property.

The pier grandfathering standards, however, focus exclusively on the size of pier and platform, but do not place any limits on the number of boat hoists. Therefore, if a pre-2004 pier has more boat hoists than what is allowed under the law adopted in 2004, the owner of the pier can grandfather the current number of slips by registering the pier with the DNR.

Spreading the Word

Now that the pier registration deadline is extended for another year, by registering their pier, a property owner will have certainty that their pier is compliant with state law and will avoid possible future enforcement actions by the DNR. Moreover, when the property owner tries to sell the property, the owner will have documentation from the DNR indicating the pier is grandfathered, which will likely be important to prospective purchasers of the property.

Article from the Appleton Post Crescent: Registration deadline for larger piers is extended

Wisconsin DNR web site for pier permits: Waterway & Wetland Permits: Piers, Docks and Wharves

Be Sure to Click "Older Post" Below - bottom of this page - for lots More Waupaca Chain News

2011-06-03T10:11:00.001-05:00

Local Business Owner and Bass Pro Mary Z Hooked This 20 Incher on the Chain Recently

2011-06-02T10:42:00.001-05:00

Taylor Lake Boat Landing Gets New Pavement

2011-05-28T08:48:00.007-05:00

The Taylor Lake boat landing on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes received new pavement, just before the Memorial Day weekend, as part of an improvement program started last fall when new concrete aprons were put in under the water. Click "older posts" at the bottom of this page to see pictures of last fall's boat landing improvement project.

The Waupaca County Parks Department has made lots of improvements to all the Chain boat landings which has made them easier to use and more accessible. The County took over the landings from the Towns of Dayton and Farmington several years ago.

Liquor and Wine Available at Chain BP SOON

2011-05-28T08:22:00.003-05:00

Chain BP owner Mel Harn has been happy lately as his busy season is about to begin and, the Town of Dayton Board voted to continue to allow beer sales till 10 PM and, starting July 1st as the sign points out, liquor and wine package sales until 9 PM.

MONSTER FISH LURKS IN WAUPACA LAKE

2011-05-19T15:51:00.002-05:00

The following is from the Appleton Post Crescent - a few years ago:

Perhaps you’ve heard of the Loch Ness monster in Scotland. But closer to home, there’s a real creature of monster proportions, lurking in the depths of tine Dake Lade on the Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes, according to Waupaca resident Jack Bittman.

“Twelve years ago, conservation warden Jim Rice received work of a lake sturgeon in distress in the Crystal River. The fish (they’re sometimes called ‘living fossils’) had made some bad choices making turns during the spawning urn and was almost beached in the shallow water. Jim enlisted the aid of friend and neighbor, Sid Miller. “Jim is retired now but remembers the rescue vividly. He recalls how he reported his projected activity to his superior. ‘I have to go out this morning and rescue a sturgeon!’ “The sturgeon was a large female, measuring 58 inches. The length generally fits a mature fish, about 28 years old. Considering that lake sturgeon can live to 75, she had some life left.

Together, the men swamped a small boat and loaded the fish into what became a portable tank. “Knowing the limited oxygen available to the fish…Rice decided to trailer the sturgeon to the nearest boat landing on the chain, on Dake Lake. Once there, they backed the swamped boat into the water allowing the sturgeon to swim off. Rescue mission accomplished. “From time to time, people have seen the fish. Without knowing the story, it can be difficult for them to relate to a very large rapidly swimming fish.

For example, my neighbor, Dmitri Martin, came upon the fish wile canoeing with his wife, Laurie. He only told me of the sighting because he was quite sure I wouldn’t laugh at him. He thought it was a shark. He knew that was impossible, but how do you reconcile seeing a fish he thought was almost as long as his canoe that probably weighed over 100 pounds?

“Hyperbole aside, the sturgeon today is prospering in Dake Lake. I saw her last week. She probably weights over 80 pounds and has grown the standard inch per year plus for the past 12 years. If she lives out her span, she could get to 8 feet long and 300 pounds. “Yes, there are prehistoric monsters in Dake Lake. Happy fishing and swimming.”

Big Fish on Round Lake Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2011-05-18T16:54:00.009-05:00

Wheel House Barman extraordinaire, and famed local sportsman, Brandon McPeak was fishing on McCrossen and Round Lakes when his fish finder marked a very big fish towards shore. When he spotted it in the shallow waters, on the West end of Brown’s Point, Brandon dropped his pole and pulled out the camera phone.

All the stars lined up for Brandon on this mid May day: he saw a big Sturgeon on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes (which is no small feat), he got his camera out before it slipped into the deep water, the 8 foot monster was swimming over some nice light colored sand for the best picture possible and, according to Brandon – the sun was over his shoulder so, as he started snapping pictures he could not view the images on his screen.

Good job Brandon, documenting a “big fish” story! Tim Koll would be proud of you!

Chain Bar Gets Add on Roof

2011-05-04T18:55:00.003-05:00

Pier Regulations Under Scrutiny in Madison

2011-04-17T20:37:00.003-05:00

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Republican lawmakers say they want to push back an application deadline affecting owners of thousands of piers on public waterways, but in doing so, they are calling for streamlining controversial regulations approved in 2008.

The legislation would delay the deadline for landowners to file applications with the Department of Natural Resources that would allow exemptions from state regulation for certain piers.

for the complete story click here

click the picture for larger view

Ugly Saturday on the Chain 4-16-2011

2011-04-16T15:41:00.002-05:00

Taylor Lake...

Fish Study on the Chain

2011-04-16T14:29:00.002-05:00

The Wisconsin DNR is currently in the process of doing a comprehensive fish study on the Waupaca Chain. You will notice these buoys round the Chain. Underneath are a series of nets.

A Day Like This is Coming Soon - Harbor Bar...

2011-04-14T10:59:00.004-05:00

Photo by Ty Helbach
http://www.tyhelbachphotography.com/

Ice Kayaking on the Chain Recently

2011-04-14T10:54:00.003-05:00

The ice is not totally out yet but, Claire is not waiting...

The Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Property Owners Association has Budgeted Money for Police Presence on Long Lake Again this Summer

2011-04-07T10:06:00.006-05:00

If the Ice Ever Goes Out...

Chain Police Report for 2010

2011-04-07T10:04:00.003-05:00

This past summer there was a total of 51 citations and 125 warnings written on the Chain O’ Lakes. Of the 51 citations, 14 were written for negligent boating and 8 more were written for BUIs. Other common citations were those written for violating navigational rules (8) and for lacking Portable Floatation Devices (9).

This past summer there were two Sheriff’s Department patrol boats on the Chain as well as another officer stationed weekends on Long Lake. Sgt. Gerald Poltrock of the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Department supervises the Water Patrol. There is perhaps no one who is as knowledgeable concerning the citations written on the Chain. Sgt. Poltrock explains the role of the Water Patrol on the Chain, “The safety of all is our main concern. We are on the water to make sure people are safe, not to write excessive numbers of tickets. If there is a problem, we will take care of it, but we do not seek out minor infractions just to write tickets.”

Harbor Bar Stocks Up for Thursday April 21 Opening

2011-04-07T09:53:00.002-05:00

No Headline Needed...

2011-04-07T09:50:00.002-05:00

Chain Area Election Results

2011-04-06T06:37:00.006-05:00

A referendum to allow for the sale of packaged liquor and wine passed in the Town of Dayton by a mere 23 votes on Tuesday. The Town of Dayton board can now create ordinances regarding how many retail licenses will be available to sell liquor and wine. the board will also set hours that a retailer could sell liquor for consumption off premises. Currently, beer sales are allowed up until 10 PM.

Chain BP owner Mel Harn helped promote passage of the referendum. The Town of Dayton already allows for the packaged sale of beer but, voters turned down the idea of allowing for the sale of liquor and wine several years ago.

Town of Dayton Residents reelected Supervisors Golding and Schroeder. Glen Newsome ran unopposed to replace Town Chairman Jim Peglow, who was not on the ballot.

Dayton Town Supervisor

Bruce Golding 559 36%
Glen Newsome 402 26%
Lee Schroeder 314 20%
Sandy Bernd 266 17%

Town of Farmington voters elected Eugene Engebretson, to replace incumbent Joel Bartel

Farmingtown Township

Eugene Engebretson 660 60%
Joel Bartel 440 40%

The Waupaca Chain is located in the Townships of Dayton to the East and Farmington to the West.

Great Article - Follow the Link...

2011-04-05T11:19:00.002-05:00

NORTH TO WAUPACA

My siblings, three younger sisters and a girl cousin who was indistinguishable from a sister and me, the lone boy, all grew up in Chicago. Six in my family, lived in a two bedroom apartment, in a typical twelve flat brick building on the city’s north side. Our parents had a bedroom. My sisters shared the other. I lived in the dining room. Our cousin was raised by our grandparents. They lived in the same building. The two apartments were connected by an old wooden back porch that served as a highway between the chaos of our place and the warm Scandinavian quiet of Mor Mor’s (Swedish for mother’s mother). We were not poor but my folks lived pretty much paycheck to paycheck. We had one collective extravagance.

We loved Chicago, but from the mid 50s to early 70s we lived for an annual, two sometimes three week, trip to the lakes. My dad, a telephone equipment installer for Western Electric, year after year, invested his entire vacation on the same getaway to Waupaca Wisconsin’s, Chain O Lakes.
Click on this Link for the balance of the story - worth the time!

Chain Sewer Gets "Scanned"

2011-03-05T13:01:00.007-06:00

You may have seen this truck around the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes area recently….So, What are they doing?

...Video recording the Waupaca Chain Sewer District’s sewer lines. In the picture below you can see, on the computer screen to the left, what the video looks like as a robot powered video camera motors down the sewer line in the middle of E. Miner Drive. All the video is recorded as the device travels through the system. Check back for more details…

Cottage on Columbia Lake Sells - Waupaca Chain O'Lakes

2011-02-23T16:54:00.003-06:00

A two bedroom home on Columbia Lake - Waupaca Chain O' Lakes sold in February. The home has 254 feet of frontage facing south on Columbia Lake. The home was most recently listed for $724,900.

Market for Vacation Homes Is on the Rise - from Wall Street Journal

2011-01-28T14:10:00.007-06:00

This is a very interesting article from the Wall Street Journal reporting on how second home sales are picking up. Notice that there is even a mention about a market in Wisconsin:

Link to WSJ article about "second home sales on the rise"

Now could prove to be a great time to be a buyer or a seller of waterfront property.

Buyers: Hire a full time, experienced and involved Realtor who lives on a Lake
Sellers: Hire a Realtor who is a Internet marketing expert to get your property maximum exposer.

Steve Huhta - ReMax Shambeau Lyons 920-889-9989 Sell Phone

Go Pack Go - Across from the Wheel House Prior to Da Bears Game

2011-01-24T17:06:00.002-06:00

Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate Sales Year End Summary

2011-01-04T12:55:00.008-06:00

Another year has passed and the number of home sale transactions on the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes homes stayed the same, compared to the previous year’s number of transactions. However, sales are still not as good as pre-recession 2007.

For review:

Year.....Number of Sales
2007.....15
2008.....10
2009.....9
2010.....9

There are still a very large number of properties (45) for sale on the Chain including, vacant land, condos and homes. This number changes weekly but, for most of last year there were 45 to 50 homes for sale at any given time. Some properties have been taken off the market recently as they did not sell.

One interesting statistic is that during 2010 there were two home sales at one million or more, which is the same number of million dollar plus homes that sold in 2009. This is good news as this type of buyer is usually very discerning and would not buy on the Chain, if they thought it was a bad long term investment.

The question I am asked most by Chain property owners is: how are values holding up on the Waupaca Chain?

The simple “opinion based” answer is: the high end ($750,000 and up) seems to be holding up well, the middle ($450,000 to $750,000) is a little off and the lower end is off more dramatically (under $450,000). With so few sales in a year, it is hard to say for sure how values are holding up, so the above comment is somewhat based on opinion. I watch listings, price changes, MLS sales and also private party sales very closely to help come up with my comments. And, I live on the Chain, so I have a good vantage point.

One interesting observation is that once the recession took hold, it seemed that Chain “tear down” home purchases (so a new home could be built on the same property) and the resulting new home construction came to almost a complete halt. However, in 2010, 6 new home construction projects have been started or completed on the Waupaca Chain. The first one was a replacement Columbia Lake home, which took the place of a home that burned completely down some time ago. Then, there are three new construction homes – on Round, Columbia and Dake Lakes – where the long time home owners tore down the existing home and are replacing it with a new home. Again, this is interesting development as there were no Chain home purchases in 2010 that resulted in the home being immediately taken down, so a new home could be built. Additionally, two new construction “green” log homes, built on what were vacant lots, are nearing completion on Limekiln Lake. There is extensive information about these two log homes in a previous post on this blog – just click older posts at the bottom of this page.

Hwy Q - Waupaca Chain Former Commercial Property Sells

2011-01-03T11:01:00.000-06:00

The former Mudd Pies Pottery building on Hwy Q, just east of the Wheel House, has sold.

2011 Waupaca Polar Bear Plunge

2011-01-03T10:57:00.000-06:00

Photos by Ty Helbach
www.tyhelbachphotography.com

The annual Waupaca Polor Bear Plunge took place this past Saturday, Jan 1st at Becker Marine in Waupaca. About 75 participants rang in the new year by taking the "plunge".

Read the full story at:
http://www.postcrescent.com/article/20110102/APC0101/101020513/Polar-plungers-welcome-new-year?bctid=735000445001

New Construction on the Chain

2010-12-09T10:41:00.006-06:00

Photo from Strongwood Log Home Company of Waupaca

Once the recession took hold, it seemed that Chain “tear down” home purchases (so a new home could be built on the same property) and the resulting new home construction, came to almost a complete halt.

However, in 2010, 6 new home construction projects have been started or completed on the Chain. The first one was a replacement Columbia Lake home, which took the place of a home that burned completely down some time ago. Then, there are three new construction homes – on Round, Columbia and Dake Lakes – where the long time home owners tore down the existing home and are replacing it with a new home. Again, this is interesting development as there were no Chain home purchases in 2010, that resulted in the home being immediately taken down so a new home could be built.

Additionally, two new construction “green” log homes, built on what were vacant lots, are nearing completion on Limekiln Lake. There is extensive information about these two log homes in an previous post on this blog – just click older posts at the bottom of this page.

Registration deadline for people with larger piers in April 1, 2011

2010-12-08T09:43:00.005-06:00

From the Wisconsin DNR’s Web Site: Weekly News Article Published: November 23, 2010 by the Central Office

MADISON – Waterfront property owners with larger piers can follow a few simple steps to be sure they register their pier before time runs out on April 1, 2011.

An online video, interactive decision tool, and other materials on Waterway & Wetland Permits: Piers, Docks and Wharves web pages help waterfront property owners learn whether they need to register their larger pier to have it grandfathered.

"The vast majority of pier owners across Wisconsin have traditional piers and aren't affected by the 2008 law, " says Martye Griffin, who coordinates pier issues for the Department of Natural Resources. "You can learn for certain if you need to register and, if you do, complete the process quickly by using the tools on our Waterway and Wetlands permit page."

A 2004 law created exemptions to DNR's permitting process for certain projects, including traditional piers that were a maximum of 6 feet wide, didn't interfere with neighbors or public boating and fishing, and have no more than two boat slips for the first 50 feet of shoreline frontage owned and an additional boat slip for every full 50 feet owned thereafter.

To meet concerns of property owners with larger piers that did not fit under the exemption, legislators in 2008 passed a law that grandfathered most larger piers first put in the water before 2004. However, owners of qualified piers need to complete a free, one-time registration by April 1, 2011.

Large piers can impact fish and aquatic life by shading out the aquatic plants they need to provide habitat. Large piers also can interfere with boating, swimming and fishing in addition to interfering with neighbors.

Owners of piers larger than the standards codified in 2004 have until April 1, 2011, to determine if they qualify to be grandfathered, and to complete the registration process. Owners of very large piers that don't meet the grandfathering standards will have the choice of downsizing to meet the standard or completing an individual permit application and review process.

For piers that are too large to be exempt but qualified to be grandfathered, the registration process involves filling out and mailing in a brief form. Drawing a diagram indicating the dimensions of the pier is the most important thing, Griffin says.

"The more information we get for the file the better the protection for a landowner if a complaint or disagreement arises in the future with a neighbor or member of the public," he says.

DNR is evaluating the registration forms on a first-come, first served basis. Griffin anticipates that everyone who sends in their forms will have them signed by the DNR and returned to them by the time the grandfathering period ends in 2011.

House Sells on Taylor Lake - Waupaca Chain O' Lakes

2010-12-02T15:58:00.005-06:00

A nice year around Waupaca Chain O' Lakes home, small cottage and detached garage sold recently on Pine Ridge Lane on Taylor Lake.

The property had a Tax Bill Fair Market Value of $399,000.

Be sure to "Click" the "Older Posts" link at the bottom of the screen for more Waupaca Chain O' Lakes Real Estate information and general news. Thanks!