Wisconsin likes to promote itself as America’s Dairy Land and it isn’t far off. The state has a strong rural, farming influence. This leads to friendly people and communities living at a pace of life you will not find in more stressful states such as New York and California. Wisconsin, however, does hold a gem of a small city within its borders.

Madison is the capital of Wisconsin and home to the University of Wisconsin. A sleepy college town for years, Madison has long offered a great way of life. National publications started noticing it a few years back and it is regularly listed in top 10 rankings for desirable places to live in the United States. The reputation is well earned as Madison manages to have all the amenities of a large city while maintaining a small college town field. Madison gets a big thumbs up from us. If you prefer living in larger cities, Milwaukee is as big as it gets in Wisconsin. It is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is roughly 90 miles from Chicago, a city with which it maintain a natural rivalry and love-hate relationship. Over the last few years, the city has undergone major redevelopment and upgrades which is making it an attractive place to live after long periods of stagnation and decline.

The Wisconsin real estate market is vibrant and compares with any in the country. A single-family home in Madison will set you back roughly $160,000 while the same home in Milwaukee will run you roughly $110,000. Appreciation rates are a steady six to seven percent across the state.

If your goal is finding affordable health insurance in Wisconsin, look for the following warning signs; they will let you know that the health insurance company or agent in question should be avoided. Avoid a health insurance company that is very boastful, or seems too confident for your comfort level. If the company does indeed offer coverage for much lower than any other health insurance company in Wisconsin, there may be some kind of scam in progress. It may be very limited coverage, or there may be hidden fees.

Health insurance companies in Wisconsin that claim to offer deals for a limited time or savings for purchasing a health care plan immediately are suspicious. Most health insurance companies in Wisconsin have set rates for specific criteria. They do not normally offer “one time deals” to lure customers. Close the door or hang up the phone on companies that refuse to provide you with informational forms, pamphlets, or brochures. You should find these in the office, or the company should be willing to mail them to you. Written documentation of what the company offers is essential – period. Only do business with health insurance companies that are licensed to sell insurance in Wisconsin in order to help protect yourself against scams. The company should have proof of this license; ask to see it. If the company refuses, move on. Reputable health insurance companies in Wisconsin will provide you with a variety of payment options. Any Wisconsin health insurance company that only allows bank account withdrawals or cash payments seemingly want the money immediately or without proof that you have paid. Does that sound trustworthy?