Council approves listing agreement with Artisan Graham to sell six city-owned Maple Grove lots

The Fort Atkinson City Council on May 6 approved a contract with Artisan Graham to market and sell six city-owned parcels in the Maple Grove subdivision, and authorized the city manager and city attorney to execute closing documents.

City Manager Hausman told the council the Maple Grove preliminary plat, approved in November 2024, created eight parcels, six of which are city-owned and two of which are owned by the Fort Atkinson School District. Staff recommended reducing the previously anticipated sales price from $55,000 to $40,000 per lot based on market advice and to list the parcels at $40,000 each.

Hausman said Artisan Graham proposed a commission structure of 3.5% if the listing firm procures the buyer and 2.4% if a buyer’s agent is involved; the combined figure in a typical transaction would be 4.8% (2.4% to each firm). Proceeds from the sales will be returned to the general fund, the wastewater utility fund and the water utility fund in proportion to the costs those funds paid for infrastructure that made the lots buildable.

Local realtors raised concerns that other local firms were not invited to submit proposals. Realtor Brandon Housley, who spoke at the meeting and identified himself as a Fort Atkinson resident, said several local brokers were disappointed they had not been offered an opportunity to propose. Hausman responded that professional services do not require a formal RFP and that Artisan Graham had provided a proposal; he also noted Artisan Graham’s listing agents assigned to the project live locally.

A motion to approve the contract carried. Staff will list the parcels at $40,000 each and proceed with Artisan Graham’s listing under the approved commission terms; closing proceeds will be allocated as described.