Dane County foreclosure map

This very informative map shows Dane County foreclosures by location during the years 2005 through 2007. Even more useful, it maps foreclosure density (the number of foreclosures per 100 household units). Two things jump out at me when I view this map:

1. As expected, the city of Madison accounts for a large percentage of Dane County foreclosures (each red dot represents a foreclosure).
2. However, foreclosure density tends to be highest along the perimeter of Madison and in a few surrounding communities (look for the census areas that are shaded dark green). This data implies the real estate market will be most affected by foreclosures in the areas that have the highest foreclosure densities.

Thanks to Russ Kashian from UW Whitewater and Matt Kures from the UW Extension Center for Community and Economic Development for publishing this map. They will be publishing a new map soon which will be based on 2008 foreclosure data. We'll share that map when it's available.

On a related note, Dane County foreclosures continue to rise. Foreclosures this month have already surpassed the total from January of 2008. We'll publish our January report in about two weeks. In the meantime, you'll find our December foreclosure report on the economic trends page at DaneCountyMarket.com.