Episode 1 - Is Buying a Home Still Realistic? First-Time Buyer Advice in Northeast Wisconsin

In the first episode of On Your Block, hosts Pam Beattie and Jeff Anklam from Waterstone Mortgage tackle one of the biggest questions buyers are asking right now: Is buying a home still realistic?

Using real conversations from Reddit, Quora, and beyond, Pam and Jeff break down what home affordability actually looks like in today’s market, especially here in Northeast Wisconsin and the Fox Valley. They discuss budgeting beyond the mortgage payment, saving for a down payment, buying fixer-uppers, building equity, local market challenges, first-time buyer programs, and why getting started may matter more than waiting for the “perfect” time.

This episode also features a local small business spotlight on Mosquito and Pest Authority in the Fox Valley.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, wondering if homeownership is still possible, or trying to understand what your next step should be, this episode is all about replacing online overwhelm with practical, local guidance.