Smart home devices make life easier, and smart home technology is experiencing explosive growth. The Consumer Technology Association found in a 2020 survey that 70% of US households have at least one smart device, and 11% have three or more. What is primary reason so much is being invested into smart home technology? It's convenience.

We have found this to be true in our own home.  From simple tasks like "Alexa, turn on the lamp" or "Alexa, play beach sounds" (a soothing white noise for better sleep) to more complex devices like smart thermostats, garage door gateways, and video doorbells, they all make our life easier. Plus, the icing on the cake is being able to also control them from my Android smartphone no matter where I am.

We are fans of Amazon's Alexa family of products and have several devices to help us out. They offer a variety of products and are easy to set up, and we are eagerly awaiting the release of the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen).

Google Home is also a great ! ...

The home buying process is complex, and there are many documents associated with a real estate transaction. Occasionally home buyers or sellers ask what is title insurance and why do I need it?

The Wisconsin form WB-11 Residential Offer to Purchase states that the seller shall give evidence of title in the form of an owner's policy of title insurance in the amount of the purchase price.

A title insurance policy provides coverage for certain losses due to defects in the title that occurred prior to your ownership. Title insurance protects buyers against losses that may result in claims against ownership and threats that could cause them to lose the property. It assures a buyer that they are acquiring a marketable title from the seller.

By issuing the policy, the title company agrees to defend the policyholder’s title in court against any lawsuits that may arise from defects covered in the policy.

Title issues may include things like fraudulent or forged documents ! ...

We have something very special to share with you today. We were very fortunate to have Sgt. Matt Kuether from the Appleton Police Department in our office recently to share some important information that can benefit us all. He has put together a presentation on protecting yourself against identity theft and scams, and we have it on video.
His video includes great advice on protecting ourselves. A key takeaway is, if you are ever unsure if someone is trying to take advantage of you, it's important to stop and reach out to someone you trust for advice--a friend, family member, or the police department. You are not alone, and these scams are very prevalent against members of our community and all over the country. Now here's Sgt Kuether with the details.
Sgt Matt Kuether - Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft and Scams ...

For over a year, Leah Helms, Justin Skowron,  and Patriot Partners Removal have been helping seniors in transition with their moving, auction, and clean out services. Patriot Partners Removal is veteran-owned and helps support veterans in the community.

"Many times we help people during the most vulnerable time in their lives. We strive to be respectful and don't judge", said Leah "while helping to reduce barriers in the environment to make a home safe or facilitate a relocation." Sometimes a client only needs simple clean-out services in a time-sensitive situation.

The group is able to help with both emergent and planned moves, and typically requires no money upfront if there is a home sale closing within 30 to 60 days. They are paid with the proceeds from the sale. Their move management services are designed to make the process as effortless as possible for seniors and their families.

Their online auction services are comprehensive and provide a means to recoup some of . ...