Welcome to The MDR House Blog

We're covering topics from real estate statistics to interior design trends, to creating healthy homes, & more. If you have questions or are looking for help in the areas of real estate or interior design, message us here. Happy reading!

Aug. 19, 2024

Top Tips For Choosing The Best Agent Realtor In Fitchburg For Your Needs

Are you trying to buy or sell a home? Do you need to find the best agent realtor in Fitchburg that you can, but are not sure how to achieve that goal? There are a few useful tips that can be used to help you choose the best realtor easily.

Tip #1: Look for a realtor that helps in multiple ways

Before you choose a realtor to work with, you need to take time to decide what you want them to help you with. If you are buying a home, you want help to purchase the home but a great realtor is going to also be able to help with the design of your new home.

This will help ensure your new home is exactly what you want it to be, so you are completely happy with your new home. Not all realtors provide this service, so finding one that does ensure you are getting a good one that will be with you every step of the way until you are happy with everything.

If you are selling your home, you need to make sure they will help you with every step of the process. This way you get the most money possible for your home and are happy with the final price.

Tip #2: Find a realtor that provides a free consultation

Before you can make an informed decision about who to choose, you need to talk to a realtor first. It is smart to find a real estate company that provides a free consultation. This is going to give you the opportunity to speak to them before you decide if they will be the best help for you and your needs for buying or selling your home.

Tip #3: Look for a real estate company that has multiple realtors

Being able to choose the realtor to work with is important and a good company is going to provide multiple realtors for you to choose from. This way you can find the professional you feel the most comfortable working with to help with your home buying or selling needs.

Tip #4: Find a realtor that is local

When you are trying to buy or sell a home, it is smart to find a realtor that is local to the area you are moving to or moving from. Someone that is local is going to know about the home, but will also know about the neighborhood, schools, and other areas that are important for your family to know about. This way you can decide which area is the best for you based on all the right information and the home itself.

With the use of these tips, you will be able to easily choose the best agent realtor in Fitchburg for your home buying or selling needs. Just make sure you utilize these tips, so you can choose the best realtor with complete confidence.

Aug. 19, 2024

What Should You Expect From A Good Realtor In Cottage Grove?

Are you trying to buy or sell a home in Cottage Grove? Before you choose any professional for their help, you need to know what to expect from a good realtor in Cottage Grove. This will help you make an informed decision about which realtor to choose and will ensure you get help from a professional that will help you every step of the way during the buying or selling process.

There are a few important things you should expect and the following are the most important.

One: Help in multiple areas of the process – A good company is going to provide help for you during the buying and selling process. They will also offer help in other ways such as with design help. A real estate company that offers help with all three of these is going to ensure you are happy with the entire process and how it all ends up for your family.

Two: Multiple agents you can work with – When you are selecting the right professional to work with, a good company is going to have multiple agents for you to work with. This way you can find the one that you feel comfortable with and that can help you find the best home or sell your home for the best outcome for your family.

Three: Free consultation – A good real estate company is going to offer you a free consultation with their agents, so you can talk to them with your questions or concerns. This will make it easier for you to select the agent that would be the best fit for you to work with and will help you make that informed decision.

Four: Resources for buyers and sellers – Buying or selling a home is a long and drawn-out process and can be overwhelming. A professional company is going to provide resources for buyers and sellers, so you have the most information possible to make the whole process much easier for you.

Five: Multiple homes for you to check out – When you are trying to buy or sell a home, you need to look at multiple houses. A good company is going to provide a list of many houses you can check out, so you can find the best option for your family. If you are selling your home, they will show your home to multiple people and help you get the best price possible for your family.

Knowing what to expect from a good realtor in Cottage Grove will help ensure you choose a professional that will help you during every step of the process. This is going to make the whole home buying or selling process easier for you as well as more enjoyable.

Aug. 13, 2024

Why Work With A Realtor When Going Through Home Real Estate In Madison?

Are you looking to purchase your dream home where your family can make many happy memories? Have you been checking out home real estate in Madison, but are just not finding what you want for your family? You need to understand why it is important to work with a realtor to help you find the dream home you truly want.

One: Experience – A good realtor is going to have experience in the real estate buying process. They will help you every step of the way, so you understand exactly what is happening throughout the whole process. The will also be able to answer your questions through the home buying process, so you get exactly what you want for your family’s home.

Two: Knowledge – They will have knowledge about the home itself, so you understand everything you are getting in your new home. They will also have knowledge about the neighborhood that the home is in, the entertainment areas, restaurants, schools, and other important knowledge about where you will be living, so you can decide if the home is in a good area for your family to live and grow in for years to come.

Three: Time – Buying a new home is a process that takes time and you need to work with someone that will have the time needed to help you find that perfect dream home. You will have some time to look for your home but you have to live your life through this process as well, so you need someone that will put in the time to lead you to every property available.

This will ensure that you are able to check all the homes available, so you don’t miss your dream home. A good realtor will also help you get into your dream home, even if it takes a little longer than expected to make sure your family is happy where you end up for a long time. They will not be in a rush to help you find your dream home but will put in whatever time is needed to make sure you are happy with your new home.

Knowing the reasons why it is important to work with a realtor for help in looking through home real estate in Madison to find your family’s dream home will allow you to understand why you need to find them from the very beginning of the process. This will ensure that your family finds the home of your dreams easily and within a reasonable time, so you can get your lives started in this new home and create many happy memories over the years.

Posted in All Things Home
Aug. 13, 2024

What To Look For In A Realtor In Janesville To Help You Buy Or Sell A Home

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, it is important that you have help through this process so you get the most value for your home, or you find the dream home you truly want. You need to understand what to look for in a realtor in Janesville for help in buying or selling a home.

The first thing to look for is a realtor that really listens to what you are looking for in a home, or what you are trying to achieve with selling your home. This is imperative because this is a process that is going to take time, and it is going to lead you to where you truly want to be with your home. A good realtor is going to do all they can to listen and understand your home dreams so you come out of this process very happy with the results.

A second thing to look for is experience. When you are purchasing or selling a home, it is smart to work with a realtor that has experience. They will know how to take you through the whole home buying or selling process and will work on your behalf to ensure you get the money you deserve for your home, or you buy the home that will help your family make happy memories for years to come.

Their experience will also ensure that you gain valuable information about the area where the home is located. A good realtor is going to know about the neighborhood, entertainment areas, schools, and other important information that is going to help you decide on the right home for your family to move to.

If you are selling your home, they will be able to help you connect with the right family to purchase your home, which will ensure that you get what you want for your home and another family gets their dream home.

Next, you need to look for a realtor company that will provide you with a free consultation, so you can connect with someone to discuss what your needs are. This is going to help you decide if you are comfortable working with the realtor, so you won’t hold back on letting them know what you want throughout the whole process. You need to be able to feel comfortable speaking to them about everything, so you get what you want for your home.

Now that you understand what to look for when choosing a realtor in Janesville, you will be able to easily decide on the right agent for you to work with. This is going to help make the whole process of selling or buying your home much easier and more enjoyable for you and will help ensure you get exactly what you are looking for from this process.

Posted in All Things Home
July 3, 2024

MDR's Tropical Summer BBQ Sliders

 

Welcome back to "All Things Home" with MDR! As summer heats up, it's time to elevate your BBQ game with a fun and flavorful twist. This season, we’re bringing a taste of the tropics to your backyard with our Pineapple Teriyaki Burger Sliders. These sliders are packed with juicy goodness, a hint of sweetness, and a whole lot of fun. Perfect for a family cookout or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to make your summer BBQ unforgettable.

 

Ingredients:

For the Pineapple Teriyaki Burger Sliders:

- 1 pound of ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

- 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup of fresh pineapple slices (cut into small rings to fit sliders)

- 1/2 cup of shredded lettuce

- 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion

- 8-10 slider buns

 

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

- 1/4 cup of soy sauce

- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon of honey

- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar

- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger

- 1 clove of garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (to thicken)

 

Optional Toppings:

- Sliced avocado

- Pickled jalapeños

- Fresh cilantro leaves

 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:

- In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.

- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.

- Add the cornstarch mixture and continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

 

2. Make the Burger Patties:

- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

 

3. Grill the Pineapple and Burgers:

- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

- Grill the pineapple slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks. Set aside.

- Grill the burger patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

 

4. Assemble the Sliders:

- Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill.

- Place a grilled burger patty on the bottom half of each bun.

- Top each patty with a grilled pineapple slice, shredded lettuce, and thinly sliced red onion.

- Drizzle a little extra teriyaki sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

- Add any optional toppings you like, such as sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or fresh cilantro leaves.

- Cover with the top half of the bun.

 

5. Serve and Enjoy:

- Arrange the Pineapple Teriyaki Burger Sliders on a serving platter.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro or pineapple slices for a festive touch.

- Serve immediately and watch your guests delight in these tropical, flavorful sliders.

 

At MDR, we believe that every home should be filled with fun, flavor, and unforgettable moments. Our Pineapple Teriyaki Burger Sliders are a perfect way to bring a taste of the tropics to your summer BBQ, creating an exciting and delicious experience for all.

 

Fire up the grill, invite your loved ones, and enjoy the burst of tropical flavors with this unique twist on classic sliders. Stay tuned for more "All Things Home" inspirations from MDR, where we celebrate the joys of home and life in every season. Happy grilling and aloha from MDR!

Posted in Recipes
July 1, 2024

Celebrate the 4th of July with MDR: Cooking Out, Festivities, and Dream Home Designs

Cooking Out, Festivities, and Dream Home Designs

The 4th of July is a time for celebration, fireworks, and, of course, fantastic food! As you gather with family and friends to commemorate this special day, imagine the possibilities for your ideal entertaining spaces, both indoors and outdoors. At MDR, we believe that your home should be the perfect setting for all of life’s celebrations, and we’re here to help you turn those dreams into reality.

Creating the Perfect Outdoor BBQ Space

Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ, and the 4th of July is the ultimate occasion to showcase your outdoor entertaining area. Picture yourself flipping burgers on a state-of-the-art grill, surrounded by loved ones enjoying the sunshine and festive atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or a more elaborate gathering, the right outdoor setup can make all the difference.

Consider adding features like a spacious deck or patio, comfortable seating areas, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen. These elements not only enhance your hosting capabilities but also add significant value to your home. If you’re dreaming of the perfect BBQ space, MDR can help you find a home with the potential to create this idyllic setting or assist you in designing your current space to meet your needs.

Interior Spaces for Festive Gatherings

While outdoor celebrations are a highlight of summer, having a versatile indoor space is equally important, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Imagine a beautifully designed open-concept kitchen and living area where guests can mingle and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Large windows bring in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

Consider incorporating features like a kitchen island for extra prep space and seating, built-in storage for all your entertaining essentials, and a dining area that can accommodate both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. At MDR, our design experts can help you create an interior space that’s perfect for any occasion, ensuring your home is always ready to welcome guests.

Finding Your Dream Home with MDR

If your current home doesn’t quite meet your entertaining needs, summer is a fantastic time to explore new real estate opportunities. The market is bustling, and there’s no better time to find a home that checks all your boxes for both everyday living and special celebrations.

Our team at MDR is dedicated to helping you find the perfect property that aligns with your vision. Whether you’re looking for a spacious backyard, a modern kitchen, or a cozy living area, we’ll work with you to identify homes that meet your criteria. We understand that a home is more than just a place to live—it’s where memories are made and traditions are celebrated.

Transforming Your Space with MDR Design Co.

Already in love with your current home but looking to make some updates? MDR Design Co. is here to help! Our design experts can assist you in transforming your space into the ultimate entertaining haven. From selecting the right finishes to optimizing your layout, we’ll work with you to create a home that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

Imagine hosting next year’s 4th of July celebration in a space that perfectly reflects your style and meets all your needs. With MDR Design Co., those dreams can become a reality. Contact us today for your design consult!

Celebrate in Style with MDR

As you enjoy the 4th of July festivities, take a moment to envision how you can enhance your home for future celebrations. Whether you’re dreaming of a new property or looking to update your current space, MDR is here to support you every step of the way. Cheers to good food, great company, and the perfect place to call home. Happy 4th of July from all of us at MDR!

Posted in All Things Home
June 7, 2024

Save Money by Staying Home this Summer!

 

Summer in Wisconsin is a season of endless possibilities, with warm weather and long days offering ample opportunities for fun and relaxation. While traveling and vacations can be exciting, they can also be expensive. Fortunately, you don't have to leave your home to have a memorable summer. At MAKING DREAMS Realty (MDR), we're all about making your home the heart of happiness and adventure. Here are some fun and cost-effective ways to enjoy summer at home in Wisconsin.

 

Backyard Camping Adventure:

Transform your backyard into a mini-campground. Pitch a tent, gather sleeping bags, and enjoy a night under the stars without leaving your property. Roast marshmallows, tell stories around a fire pit, and experience the joy of camping with all the comforts of home nearby. It's a great way to connect with nature and create lasting memories with family and friends.

 

DIY Outdoor Movie Night:

Set up an outdoor movie theater in your backyard. All you need is a projector, a white sheet or a portable screen, and some cozy seating. Pick your favorite summer movies, make some popcorn, and enjoy a cinema experience under the stars. Invite friends and neighbors for a community movie night that everyone will love.

 

Create a Garden Oasis:

Channel your inner gardener and create a lush, vibrant garden oasis right at home. Plant a variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs to enjoy throughout the summer. Not only will gardening provide you with fresh produce, but it also offers a therapeutic and rewarding hobby. Plus, you can host garden parties or simply relax in your beautifully curated outdoor space.

 

Host a Summer BBQ:

Nothing says summer like a good old-fashioned BBQ. Fire up the grill and invite friends and family over for a delicious outdoor feast. Opt for potluck-style gatherings where everyone brings a dish to share, minimizing costs and maximizing variety. Enjoy games like cornhole, frisbee, or a water balloon fight to keep the fun going all day long.

 

Set Up a DIY Water Park:

Beat the summer heat by creating your own water park at home. Set up sprinklers, a kiddie pool, and water balloons for hours of refreshing fun. You can also get creative with slip-and-slides or water obstacle courses. It's a fantastic way to cool off and entertain kids and adults alike without spending a fortune.

 

Explore New Hobbies:

Summer is the perfect time to pick up new hobbies or revisit old ones. Whether it's painting, crafting, cooking, or learning a musical instrument, there's no shortage of creative pursuits to explore. Utilize online tutorials and resources to learn something new and enjoy the satisfaction of developing a new skill.

 

Plan Themed Staycations:

Bring the vacation experience home by planning themed staycations. Choose a different theme each week, such as a Hawaiian luau, a Mexican fiesta, or a Parisian café. Decorate your home, cook themed meals, and immerse yourself in the culture and ambiance of your chosen destination. It's a fun and budget-friendly way to travel the world from the comfort of your home.

 

Summer in Wisconsin offers countless opportunities for fun and relaxation, all without the need for extravagant expenses. By embracing these creative and budget-friendly activities at home, you can make the most of the season while saving money. At MAKING DREAMS Realty, we believe that home is where the heart is, and there's no better place to create joyful summer memories. Enjoy your summer adventures and make the most of your beautiful home! 

Posted in All Things Home
May 17, 2024

June Freshness: Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers by MDR

As we bask in the delightful warmth of June, it's the perfect time to celebrate with fresh, vibrant flavors that make your taste buds dance. At MDR, we believe in creating homes filled with joy, connection, and of course, delicious meals that bring everyone together.

This month, we're excited to share our recipe for Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers. Perfect for a family barbecue, a weekend picnic, or a casual dinner, these skewers are easy to make and bursting with summer flavors. Let's dive into this fun and fresh recipe that will make your June gatherings truly special.

 

Ingredients:

 

For the Chicken Skewers:

 

- 1 1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

- 2 lemons (zest and juice)

- 3 tablespoons of olive oil

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped

- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves

- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)

 

For Serving:

 

- Lemon wedges

- Fresh herb garnish (parsley or thyme)

- Your favorite summer sides (salad, grilled veggies, etc.)

 

Instructions:

 

1. Marinate the Chicken:

- In a large bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld (for best results, marinate for 2-3 hours).

 

2. Prepare the Skewers:

- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, distributing them evenly.

 

3. Grill the Skewers:

- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

 

4. Serve and Enjoy:

- Arrange the Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers on a platter.

- Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and lemon wedges for a burst of color and freshness.

- Serve with your favorite summer sides and enjoy the vibrant, zesty flavors.

 

At MDR, we believe that a home is more than just a place—it's where cherished memories are made, especially around the dining table. Our Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are perfect for bringing family and friends together, celebrating the fresh, lively essence of June.

So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and create unforgettable moments with this delightful recipe. Stay tuned for more "All Things Home" inspirations from MDR, where we celebrate the joys of home life in every season. Happy grilling and happy June, dear readers!

Posted in Recipes
May 15, 2024

Discover the Rewards of Becoming a Real Estate Agent with MDR

 

At MAKING DREAMS Realty (MDR), we believe in the power of dreams and the importance of turning them into reality. If you've ever considered a career in real estate, now is the perfect time to take the leap. Becoming a real estate agent offers numerous benefits, from personal growth to financial independence. And when you join the MDR team, you become part of a supportive family that is dedicated to your success.

1. Embrace Financial Independence:

One of the most appealing aspects of a career in real estate is the potential for financial independence. As a real estate agent, your earnings are directly tied to your efforts and achievements. With a strong work ethic and dedication, you have the opportunity to build a lucrative career that provides financial stability and growth.

2. Enjoy Flexibility and Work-Life Balance:

Real estate offers a level of flexibility that is hard to find in other careers. As an agent, you have the ability to set your own schedule, allowing you to balance work with personal commitments and interests. This flexibility is especially valuable for those who value family time and personal pursuits.

3. Make a Positive Impact:

Helping clients find their dream homes or achieve their real estate goals is incredibly rewarding. As a real estate agent, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives, guiding them through one of the most significant decisions they will ever make. The satisfaction of seeing a client's joy when they find the perfect home is truly unparalleled.

4. Continuous Learning and Growth:

The real estate industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, offering continuous opportunities for learning and growth. At MDR, we prioritize education and professional development, providing our agents with access to the latest industry knowledge, training programs, and resources. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, there is always room to expand your skills and expertise.

 

Join the MDR Family:

When you become a part of the MDR team, you're not just joining a company—you're becoming part of a family. Our team culture is built on mutual support, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. We celebrate each other's successes and work together to overcome challenges. At MDR, you'll find a nurturing environment where your dreams and aspirations are valued and supported.

 

A career in real estate offers countless benefits, from financial independence to personal fulfillment. If you're ready to take the next step and embrace these opportunities, consider joining the MAKING DREAMS Realty family. With our strong culture, commitment to education, and family-oriented atmosphere, MDR is the ideal place to launch or advance your real estate career. Together, we can turn dreams into reality. Contact us today to learn more about becoming part of our team and start your journey with MDR!

April 26, 2024

MDR Spring Blossom Mocktail

With non-alcoholic options becoming more of a trend, we thought we would give our spin on one! This Spring Blossom Mocktail is perfect for sipping with dinner, on the porch, or to use as a mixer! Enjoy this refreshing drink without the day after effects! 

 

Ingredients:

- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup

- 2 cups sparkling water or club soda

- Ice cubes

- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

- Edible flowers, for garnish (optional)

 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Lemonade Base:

   In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and honey or agave syrup. Blend until smooth and well combined.

2. Strain the Mixture:

   Strain the strawberry lemonade mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any seeds or pulp. Discard any solids.

3. Assemble the Mocktail:

   Fill serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour the strained strawberry lemonade mixture into each glass, filling them about halfway.

4. Add Sparkling Water:

   Top off each glass with sparkling water or club soda, stirring gently to combine. The effervescence will add a refreshing fizz to the mocktail.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint leaves and, if desired, an edible flower for a touch of whimsy and elegance.

6. Enjoy Responsibly:

   Sip and savor the delightful flavors of spring with this refreshing MDR Spring Blossom Mocktail. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely afternoon on the patio or hosting a festive gathering, this mocktail is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

 

MDR Twist:

To give this mocktail an MDR twist, consider adding a splash of lavender syrup or elderflower liqueur for an extra layer of floral sweetness. With a touch of creativity and a nod to spring, this mocktail embodies the spirit of MDR's commitment to making every moment at home special and memorable.

 

Raise a glass to the joys of spring and the promise of new beginnings with the MDR Spring Blossom Mocktail. Cheers to refreshing mocktails, vibrant flavors, and the beauty of the season!

Posted in Recipes