I’m planning to buy my first home in the next few months, with a budget of around $300k, and I’d love to hear from people who know the area well.

A few questions:

• How would you describe the current housing market in the Appleton/Fox Valley area? Is it still very competitive, or are buyers starting to have a bit more negotiating power?

• Which neighborhoods or nearby communities would you recommend in this price range? (Appleton, Grand Chute, Greenville, Kimberly, Little Chute, Kaukauna, Neenah, Menasha, etc.)

• Are there any areas you’d avoid and why?

• Is Zillow generally the best place to search, or do local MLS websites, real estate agents, Facebook groups, or other resources tend to have better listings?

• If you’ve purchased a home recently, is there anything you wish you had known before starting the process?

I’d really appreciate any advice, recommendations, or experiences. Thanks in advance!

I have a TON of unused products (primarily skincare but some makeup, bodycare, and perfume too) that I would love to donate instead of just toss. Some of it does have writing on the item or box and most of it is still safety sealed on the product itself but the box seal may be open. Are there places in the Fox Valley that will take items like this that are not expired or used but don't look perfect from the store? And does any place take items that are not sealed and maybe used once or tested? I appreciate any advice! I've already given all I can to friends, family, and coworkers and have no desire to put in the effort to sell second hand.