Home Buying

9 Reasons Hopkins MN is a Great Place to Live

Discover Hopkins, Minnesota: A Hidden Gem for Homebuyers with the Top Real Estate Agent

Nestled in the heart of Hennepin County, Hopkins, Minnesota, is a vibrant town that combines small-town charm with big-city convenience. With a land area of just over 4 square miles, Hopkins is a compact community that packs a punch in terms of amenities, culture, and quality of life. As the top real estate agent in Hopkins, Minnesota, I'm here to guide you through this hidden gem and show you why it's the perfect place to call home.

1. Affordability Meets Quality Living

Hopkins stands out for its affordability within the Twin Cities metro area. With a median home price of $192,900, it offers exceptional value, especially when compared to neighboring communities. This affordability, coupled with the area's charm, makes Hopkins a sought-after location for families and professionals alike.

2. Seamless Metro Access for Easy Commutes

Located just 10 miles southwest of Minneapolis, Hopkins offers seamless access to the metro area, making commutes to the city for work or leisure a breeze. Whether you're catching a Twins game at Target Field or enjoying a concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell, you're never far from where you need to be.

3. Charming Downtown with Unique Shopping Experiences

Hopkins' Main Street downtown area captures the essence of a bygone era with its quality retail shops, antique stores, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. The downtown area's walkability and diverse housing options, including apartments, condos, and townhomes, add to its appeal.

4. Celebrating Tradition: The Raspberry Capital of America

Hopkins is renowned as the Raspberry Capital of America, a title celebrated with the annual Raspberry Festival—a tradition that has captivated residents and visitors since 1935. This event epitomizes the community spirit of Hopkins, featuring a parade, family day events, and the unique search...

How to Buy and Sell a Home in the Twin Cities Real Estate Market

Discover the Twin Cities Real Estate Market

Discover the Twin Cities Real Estate Market: A Goldmine for Savvy Buyers and Sellers

Attention, home buyers and sellers in the Twin Cities! If you're navigating the Minneapolis-St. Paul real estate landscape, you're stepping into a market that's buzzing with opportunity, especially for sellers. Why? The answer lies in the historically low inventory levels that tilt the scales in favor of those listing their homes.

A Seller's Market Defined by Low Inventory

Recent insights from the Minneapolis Association of Realtors highlight a significant drop in available homes—down by 26.3% at the end of 2016. With a mere 1.8 months' supply of single-family homes and even less for condos and townhomes, the Twin Cities market is in an unprecedented state. Properties priced under $350,001 are especially scarce, offering a mere 1.3 months' supply. This crunch means that for real estate agents in Twin Cities, guiding clients through this landscape requires expertise and strategy.

Buying a Home in the Twin Cities: Tips for Success

Despite the market favoring sellers, buyers remain undeterred. The pursuit of homeownership continues, with buyers and their real estate agents in Twin Cities braving the winter chill to find the perfect home. In this competitive environment, well-presented properties often receive multiple offers quickly, selling at or above the asking price.

Who's buying? Millennials stepping into homeownership and Baby Boomers seeking to downsize...

Is Golden Valley MN a good place to buy a home

Discovering Golden Valley MN: A Gem for Homebuyers

Discovering Golden Valley MN: A Gem for Homebuyers

Located 5 miles west of downtown Minneapolis, Golden Valley is a prime suburb with a rich blend of amenities, safety, and quality schools, making it a top choice for those looking to buy a home. With a population of 20,374 as per the 2010 census and a median home price of $254,300 as of October 2015, Golden Valley's real estate market is vibrant and promising.

9 Reasons Why Golden Valley MN is an Excellent Place to Buy a Home

1. Easy Access to Downtown Minneapolis

Golden Valley's proximity to Minneapolis offers easy commutes and quick access to city attractions.

2. Shopping Options

From local boutiques to large shopping centers, Golden Valley is near a variety of shopping destinations.

3. Dining and Entertainment

Enjoy diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife both in Golden Valley and nearby Minneapolis.

4. Abundant Open Spaces

Over 1035 acres of parks and natural spaces provide a plethora of outdoor activities for residents.

5. Brookview Community Center

The community center offers activities and programs catering to seniors, fostering a strong community spirit.

6. Quality Schools

Golden Valley is served by reputable school districts, offering excellent educational opportunities.

7. Safety

With a crime rate significantly lower...

7 Perfect Reasons to Buy a Home in St. Louis Park

Discover St. Louis Park, MN - Your Next Home Awaits

Why St. Louis Park Stands Out

St. Louis Park, affectionately known as "The Park," is a prime location for homebuyers looking for the perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience in the Minneapolis metropolitan area. Here are some reasons why this suburb is such a sought-after location:

  • Prime Location: Close proximity to Minneapolis, easy access to highways, and a commuter-friendly environment.
  • Housing Market Trends: A growing real estate market with appreciating home values and high demand.
  • Community and Lifestyle: A vibrant community with numerous parks, events, and recreational activities.
  • Education and Schools: Highly acclaimed schools with innovative programs.
  • Shopping and Dining: Diverse shopping centers and dining options catering to all tastes.
  • Green Spaces and Recreation: Extensive parks, trails, and nature centers for outdoor enthusiasts.

Finding the Best Realtor in St. Louis Park, MN

Choosing the right realtor in St. Louis Park is crucial for navigating the real estate market effectively. Here’s why:

  • Market Insights: Access to the latest market trends and home values to inform your decisions.
  • Personalized Service: Tailored guidance through the buying or selling process to meet your specific needs.
  • Negotiation Skills: Expert negotiation to secure favorable terms and prices.

In conclusion, St. Louis Park offers a unique living experience with its mix of suburban and urban amenities. Finding the best realtor with extensive local knowledge and expertise is key to unlocking your dream home in this vibrant community.

Looking for a home in St....

New Homes in Medina MN

Find a Realtor to Help You Buy a Home in Medina, MN: Discover the Charm

Buying a new home in Medina, MN, offers an exceptional blend of rural charm, easy access to urban amenities, and a vibrant community life. For those looking to find a realtor to help them buy a home in Medina, MN, this guide highlights why this small community on the western edge of Hennepin County is a prime choice for relocation or purchasing your next home.

1. Proximity to Downtown Minneapolis:

One of the top reasons to find a realtor in Medina, MN, is the town's easy access to downtown Minneapolis, just 20 miles away. This proximity allows residents to enjoy cultural events, dining, and shopping without the long commute, marrying the vibrancy of city life with the tranquility of a serene setting.

2. Close to Shopping & Restaurants:

The search for a home in Medina, MN, is also motivated by the nearby Ridgedale Center in Minnetonka and the Wayzata shopping district. These areas offer a plethora of shopping and dining options, ensuring that Medina residents have access to both leisure and essentials within a short drive.

3. Hamel Lions Club Flea Market:

A unique highlight for those seeking to buy a home in Medina, MN, with the help of a realtor, is the local flea market. It’s a haven for antiques, collectibles, and unique finds, adding a quirky and enjoyable aspect to weekend activities.

4. Access to Parks and Recreation:

Medina's commitment to natural beauty and outdoor activities is evident, making it an attractive location for buyers prioritizing parks, nature areas, and trails. The city caters to all seasons and preferences, enhancing its appeal for those looking to buy a home in Medina, MN.

5. Family-Friendly Environment:

With its low crime and unemployment rates, Medina offers...

3 Dos and 3 Don’ts for Home Buyers

How Is the Twin Cities Real Estate Market in February 2024?

As the Twin Cities Metro transitions from winter to the early signs of spring, the real estate market is witnessing remarkable activity. The chill in the air is giving way to optimism among homebuyers, evident from the increased foot traffic at Minnesota Property Group Open Houses. A diverse group of buyers, including first-timers, those looking to upgrade, and boomerang buyers making a return, are actively searching for homes, signaling a vibrant market.

Market Insights

Recent data from The Minneapolis Association of REALTORS© highlights a robust market with pending sales up by 30% from the previous year, marking the highest activity for February since 2005. New listings have also seen a significant increase, yet the demand from buyers keeps the market tilted in favor of sellers. With properties being snapped up quickly, it underscores a "snooze and you lose" market dynamic.

Mortgage Interest Rates

Mortgage interest rates remain attractively low, presenting an excellent opportunity for buyers to make their move. However, the competition is fierce, and being prepared is key to securing your dream home in today’s competitive Twin Cities real estate market.

Top 3 Do's and Dont's for Homebuyers

  1. Do Check Your Credit

    Begin your home-buying journey by understanding your credit. Obtain a free annual credit report to check for accuracy and know your FICO score, as lenders will use this to assess creditworthiness and interest rates.

  2. Work with an Agent

    Don't navigate the complex market alone. Partner with an experienced real estate professional who knows the Twin Cities inside out, can guide you through the process, and help smooth out potential obstacles.

  3. Talk to a Mortgage Professional and Get Pre-approved

    Understanding the...

Buying homes in St. Paul MN

Is St. Paul, MN a Good Place to Buy a Home?

Is St. Paul, MN a Good Place to Buy a Home?

When considering the purchase of a home, St. Paul, Minnesota, stands out as a compelling option for many reasons. As the capital city of Minnesota, St. Paul is not only rich in history and culture but also boasts a unique blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, making it an attractive place for homeowners.

Unique Blend of History and Modernity

St. Paul is known for its beautiful gardens, parks, historic buildings, and quaint cobbled streets, reminiscent of an East Coast city due to its early development style. This gives the city a unique character that blends seamlessly with modern amenities, offering residents the best of both worlds.

Historic Districts with Character

The city is home to several designated historic districts, offering a variety of architectural styles and a sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere.

  • Dayton’s Bluff
  • Historic Hill District
  • Irvine Park
  • Lowertown
  • Summit Avenue West
  • University-Raymond Commercial District

Small Town Feel in a Big City

Despite its status as a capital city, St. Paul offers a small-town vibe, with compact, residential streets and easy access to local amenities. This makes St. Paul an ideal place for those looking for a sense of community within a larger urban setting.

Affordability and Convenience

Housing in St. Paul tends to be more affordable compared to its twin city, Minneapolis. The cost of living, including rent and home prices, is generally lower, offering a more accessible entry point into homeownership for many.

Community and Safety

St. Paul is divided into 17 distinct neighborhoods, each with its district council that works closely with the city government to address...

Top Realtors in Plymouth Minnesota Know Why This City is so Great

Plymouth, MN: A Premier Destination for Top Real Estate Agents and Homebuyers in 2024

Plymouth, MN: A Premier Destination for Top Real Estate Agents and Homebuyers in 2024

Homes for Sale by top Plymouth Realtors

Discover the Top 10 Reasons Plymouth Is the Place to Be

Plymouth, Minnesota, continues to shine as a beacon for families, professionals, and real estate enthusiasts alike. As the 7th largest city in Minnesota, Plymouth boasts a harmonious blend of natural beauty, urban convenience, and community spirit that makes it a top choice for residents and top realtors alike. With its impressive landmass and vibrant population, Plymouth's real estate market is dynamic and promising.

Why Choose Plymouth? Here's Why:

  1. Award-Winning Community: Plymouth has consistently been recognized for its quality of life, including being named a top place to live by Money Magazine. Its blend of residential charm and community amenities sets it apart as a premier location.
  2. Convenient Access to the Twin Cities: Located just 12 miles from downtown Minneapolis, Plymouth offers seamless access to urban centers via Interstate 394, making it ideal for commuters seeking a balance between city life and suburban tranquility.
  3. Exceptional Shopping Experience: From the boutique shops in nearby Wayzata to the expansive Ridgedale Shopping Center in Minnetonka, Plymouth residents enjoy diverse shopping options catering to all tastes and needs.
  4. Diverse Dining Landscape: Whether you're in the mood for a casual family meal or a romantic dinner by the lake, Plymouth's culinary scene...

Top 7 Reasons to Live in Orono Minnesota

Discover Orono, MN: A Prime Destination for Homebuyers

Discover the Charm of Orono, Minnesota

Orono, Minnesota, remains a prime destination for those seeking a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to urban amenities. Nestled along the picturesque north shore of Lake Minnetonka, Orono offers a serene living environment, enhanced by its proximity to Minneapolis, a variety of local shopping and dining options, exceptional recreational opportunities, and a community focused on safety and quality education.

Why Orono Stands Out as an Ideal Place to Buy a Home

Proximity to Minneapolis: Orono's location ensures easy access to the vibrant city life of Minneapolis. Whether it's for work, entertainment, or dining, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds—a peaceful, lakeside living with the city's conveniences and attractions just a short drive away.

Shopping and Dining: The area around Orono is rich in shopping and dining venues, offering everything from local boutiques in Wayzata to the comprehensive retail experience at Ridgedale Center in Minnetonka. Whether you're looking for groceries at Trader Joe's or exploring high-quality shops, Orono's surroundings cater to all your needs.

Recreational Opportunities: With its location on Lake Minnetonka and within the Three Rivers Park District, Orono is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts trails, lakes, beaches, and parks, providing ample opportunities for activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and skiing. Notable spots include the Luce Line State Trail, Dakota Rail Trail, and Baker Park Reserve, offering diverse experiences in nature and recreation.

Safety: Orono is recognized for its low crime rates, contributing to the overall quality of life and making it a secure place to raise a family or enjoy retirement.

Quality Education:...

Buying a Home in Minnetonka, MN

having it all in MinnetonkaBuying A Home In Minnetonka, MN 

Minnetonka is a dynamic city located on the eastern tip of Lake Minnetonka. The land mass is 26.93 square miles, water covers a 1.29 square mile area,  population according to the 2010 census is 49,734, median home price as of April 2015 is $306,100 and expected to rise 0.9% within the next year according to Zillow. It is a great place to live, work and raise a family. Here are my top 9 reasons to consider buying a home in Minnetonka.

Minnetonka Homes Have Great Metro Access

A location 8 miles west of Minneapolis makes commuting to the city for work or play a snap.  Whether your intent is to explore the uptown or downtown options, less than 20 minutes finds you there!  Families relocating to Minnesota often find themselves being encouraged by their Realtor, Co-Workers, and Relocation Director, to look at homes for sale in Minnetonka.

Minnetonka Neighborhoods Have Tons of Shopping

North, south, east or west, there is a profusion of shopping options available to suit your wants and needs.  Shop till you drop at the Ridgedale Center where you can browse through 2 levels featuring 140 retail stores which include Macy's, Sears and JC Penney.  Spend a warm sunny afternoon in nearby Wayzata’s thriving retail center featuring dozens of high-quality shops featuring fashions, art, and antiques.   Eden Prairie Center is just south featuring Kohls, Sears, Target, JC Penny, and Von Maur as the anchor stores. Need groceries?  In and around town you can choose from Cub, Lunds & Byerly’s, Trader Joes, or Whole Foods. 

Minnetonka Families Enjoy A Wide Variety of Restaurant Options

If your preference is casual family dining or...

Avoid These Homebuyer Mistakes and Live Happily Ever After

Homebuying in the Twin Cities - Avoid these Mistakes

A particular excitement surrounds buying a home that makes other major life purchases pale in comparison. Expect to be excited and joyful about the prospect. If, by chance, you are lucky enough to find a home that feels perfect as soon as you step through the door, it can be magical.

Don't Overlook Important Considerations

Remember that magic can also be an illusion, and reality may be around the corner, waiting to tap you on the shoulder. Don’t let the euphoria of the moment keep you from delving deeper when you are purchasing a home.

Your relationship with your home is not a superficial one, and neither should your hunt for it be either. Here are mistakes you can easily avoid when buying a home. It will be a small investment in balancing your time with how long you may live there.  

Failing to Research the Location

It’s not enough to look at the properties surrounding the home you want to buy; you want to dig into the details. Start by doing a practice run on your commute to work and determine if it is doable or so far away that you will be sure to experience regret from making the drive twice a day.

Scope out the neighborhood at different times of the day and week. Be sure to check it out in the evening as well. Is it reasonably quiet, or does a potential neighbor host band practice in his garage every Saturday night?

Google Maps is a great tool to get a drone view of the neighborhood. Are parks and green spaces in the area or within walking distance of the home you want to buy? Is there a grocery store conveniently at hand? Is highway access nearby but not so close that you will hear eighteen-wheelers rumbling along in the wee hours?

Not Making Safety a Priority

AreaVibes is my favorite website for obtaining crime data on a city or neighborhood. It is a virtual wealth of information on crime, as well as the cost of living,...

11 Reasons It Rocks to Live in Bloomington MN

Top Local Realtor's Guide to Buying a Home in Bloomington, MN (2024 Edition)

Why Bloomington, MN, is an Unbeatable Place to Live

Homes in Bloomington by top realtor

Bloomington, Minnesota, is not just another suburb of the Minneapolis metro area; it's a standout community that offers a blend of natural beauty, urban convenience, and vibrant local culture. Located just ten miles south of downtown Minneapolis, along the scenic north bank of the Minnesota River, Bloomington combines the best of city living with the tranquility of nature. Its 38.46 square miles are home to a diverse and growing population, reflecting the city's welcoming atmosphere and high quality of life. Whether you're drawn by the housing market, education, or job opportunities, here's why Bloomington should be at the top of your list in 2024.

1. Seamless Metro Connectivity With major expressways like 35W and 494, getting around the Minneapolis metro area from Bloomington is a breeze. Downtown Minneapolis is a short 15-mile drive, offering easy access to its wealth of cultural, recreational, and shopping attractions. Plus, with the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport just 10 minutes away, travel is convenient for residents.

2. Efficient Light Rail System Bloomington's light rail service includes stops at American Blvd, Bloomington Central, 28th Ave, and the iconic Mall of America, providing stress-free access to downtown Minneapolis and beyond. The system connects you to the airport, with additional bus services and parking facilities, ensuring mobility is never an issue.

3. The Mall of America: A World of Entertainment As the nation's largest enclosed shopping and entertainment hub, the Mall of America continues to be a major draw. Beyond its extensive retail...

Buying a Home In The Winter

Buying a House in the Winter

Real estate is not a seasonable business. People are relocating for jobs every month of the year. People are moving out of state and into the state. Others may be moving to another city, across town, or down the street. In the process, they are buying and selling homes.

Without a doubt, spring is the prime season for real estate. Buyers come out of hibernation when the first signs cold-weather spring appear. “For Sale” signs pop up on front lawns like mushrooms after a rain shower. That doesn’t mean that because spring is most popular, that you shouldn’t consider the other alternative of buying a home in the colder months.

Winter is the time that many potential buyers would rather hunker down with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate than spend an afternoon sloshing through the wet and cold. You probably prefer to spend a frosty Sunday watching sports or a movie munching your favorite snack. I get that. But I have some solid reasons why you might want to slip into your favorite cold-weather gear and check out some homes for sale.

Winter Sellers Are Serious Sellers

Often people who sell their homes in the winter are responding to job relocation, financial woes, divorce, estate settlement, or various other compelling circumstances. Because they have a strong motivation to close a deal they may be more flexible on asking price and terms.

There Is Less Competition for Homes in the Winter

In the spirit of full disclosure, there are generally fewer homes for sale in the winter. However, it’s a fact there are fewer buyers than the other seasons of the year as well. You know, those that are not inspired enough to face the cold and are waiting for the spring. So for the spunky folk that will not be deterred by a little inconvenience like single-digit temperatures and a bit of snow will not be bumping into other buyers at open houses. They may see the home of their dreams appear on the market.  If...

How to Write a Winning Offer in a Seller's Market

How to Write a Winning Offer in a Seller's Market

Forget the spin. Take off the rose-colored glasses too. Let's be honest. Most buyers are hoping to score a home at the current real estate market's lower pricing tiers and face fierce competition, creating a process fraught with disappointment.

That's the bad news. But I am by nature a confident guy, a problem solver, and a believer in the philosophy that winners never quit. So here is the good news. A buyer with a savvy agent can write an offer that a seller will find hard to refuse.

Be Ready to Act Fast

Desirable properties often have multiple offers a couple of days after hitting the market. There is no margin of error for indecisiveness or being unprepared to offer a hot property as quickly as possible. That means you should not even consider offering a home if you do not have a preapproval letter from an accredited lender.  

Don't Be Coy

In this market, you can feel reasonably confident that if you have fallen in love with a home, so have other buyers. The occasion calls for an assertive approach, not a timid one. Open with your best offer, which should equal the asking price or higher. Your real estate professional will provide insights based on competitive properties also for sale in the neighborhood and homes that have already sold.

Go Above and Beyond

Let the sellers know your degree of commitment by upping the earnest money to 3% of the sale price. Doing so will instill seller confidence that you will not be likely to walk away from the deal since you have more money at risk. Another enticement is to make the earnest money offer non-refundable should you as the buyer cause the value to fall apart for any reason.

However, let me insert a caveat here. Consider the option carefully and talk it over with your agent and lender. You would need to prepare to forgo other contingencies to make this work.

It Isn't Only About Money.

Another way to sweeten the pot for a...

Comparison of New Home Options

Overview and Comparison of New Home Options

For most of us, homeownership remains an essential element of the American dream. For some, that dream is for a newly constructed home. It’s not difficult to see why some people aspire to live in a new home instead of a pre-owned property.

Buying a new home means not having to live with and correct other people’s choices in décor and style. It means having “smart” home features built-in and building materials that meet the safety standards of today’s regulations. It means all new and clean appliances and fixtures, HVAC systems, roofs, and siding, which keeps the cost of maintaining the home low.

There are three options for those who dream of owning a new home: tract homes, spec homes, and custom homes. They range in price from the starter home level to the “sky’s the limit” luxury housing. So even if your budget is limited, it doesn’t mean you can’t afford a new house.

Tract Homes

The largest category of new homes for sale is tract homes. They are generally built by large residential home construction companies with a regional, state, or national footprint. The contractor buys a large tract of land, makes streets, puts in utilities, separates the area into buildable house lots, and begins building homes.

Generally, a buyer of a tract home will have a few models available to choose from, each with a set floor plan. Custom choices will include paint colors, flooring, cabinets, and fixtures, but selections will often be limited to those in the builder’s design center.

Tract builders will often have a staged model home in each subdivision. They also will build homes before they have buyers and generally have houses you can see in various stages of construction.

Tract homes are available at lower pricing tiers up to the high end of the market, depending on the builder and location....

The First Time Home Buyers Journey

How to Buy a Home in the Twin Cities - A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

How to Buy a Home in the Twin Cities - A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

Embarking on the journey to purchase your first home in the Twin Cities can be both exhilarating and daunting. As you navigate through this exciting process, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge and the right strategies to make your home-buying experience seamless and successful.

Understanding the Twin Cities Metro Housing Market

The Twin Cities housing market presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges for first-time home buyers. Interest rates are at a historic low, offering an opportune time to secure a mortgage. However, the competitive market with limited inventory means buyers must be well-prepared.

Step 1: Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

Securing a mortgage preapproval is a critical first step in your home-buying journey. This not only sets a clear budget but also positions you as a serious buyer in the eyes of sellers.

Step 2: Find a Knowledgeable Local Real Estate Professional

Partnering with a seasoned Real Estate professional who understands the Twin Cities market can significantly enhance your chances of securing your desired home.

Step 3: Embark on Your Home Search with Confidence

With financial preapproval and a trusted Real Estate professional by your side, you're well-equipped to begin your search for the perfect home in the Twin Cities.

Conclusion: Your Dream Home Awaits in the Twin Cities

By understanding market dynamics, securing financial preapproval, and working with an experienced Real Estate agent, you're on your way to finding your dream home in this dynamic region. Happy house hunting in the Twin Cities!

For personalized assistance or to start your home search, consider using advanced search engines that allow you...

Do this before buying a home

Before you Buy A Home in the Twin Cities

Before you buy a home in the Twin Cities, do your homework. When purchasing a home, it's a given that you will establish criteria regarding the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, size, condition, school ratings, and location.

Do not buy a home in without assessing the neighborhood

When you evaluate an area, there are many considerations to consider. Is it an old or new neighborhood? Does it have easy highway access but is situated so that you do not hear the rumble of trucks in the night? Are there any zoning changes going into effect soon? Is shopping conveniently close? How are the schools rated?

Feel comfortable with neighborhood safety measurements

Analyzing the location of any home you are buying is essential. Do not forget to check your potential new neighborhood's crime statistics. Before you make a long-term commitment to a new home, there should be no doubt in your mind as to what types of crime happen on the streets and how often. With an internet connection and a small investment of your time, you can have a wealth of data at your disposal.

How to check  Twin Cities crime statistics online

There are several applications on the internet that compile crime statistics nationwide. Here is my list of some of the best.

Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website

You will want to know if there are any known sex offenders in the neighborhood you are considering. The Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) creates the United States Department of Justice as a resource of sex offender registries in all 50 states. When you enter an address, the website responds with a map, names, photos, and locations of known sex offenders.

Family Watchdog

What I like about this site is that it shows you who the sex offenders are in the neighborhood and designates them as child offenders or rapists. You can also search by name or school. You'll also access a wealth of information about personal...

Homebuyers Take a Closer Look Before Making an Offer

Look Past the Pretty Package

When a buyer looks at a beautifully staged home that fits their criteria, emotions rule. Fall in love with a particular house, and almost immediately, the heart works against our own best interest by suppressing our better judgment. You know what I mean, that little voice inside your head saying, "but what about those battered floors?"

Consider the facts first.

The more you know about a home before making an offer, the better. The condition of the house should be a significant consideration. Hopefully, unless expensive, unforeseen repairs are part of your plan, you will have a professional home inspection as a contingency in the offer. But, before you even make that offer, you can do your preliminary evaluation of the home's condition yourself. 

Don't set the stage today for financial regrets later.

There is no way to say that refinishing floors, painting, or other minor repairs should be dealbreakers. But if too many items fall on the fix list, added altogether, they may prove to be a tipping point on the no-sale side or affect the dollar amount of your offer. Even when a home checks off all the needs boxes and many of the nice-to-haves, costly repairs can quickly lead to regret.

Look before you leap.

Here is a suggested list of items you can check before you take that first step by offering to purchase. A second visit to the property is preferred. Still, given the competitiveness of the housing market at the lower price brackets, this is also something you can do on the initial tour of the property.

Warning signs to look for inside the home.

  • Floors – squeaks or sponginess, or worn-out carpet or wood that needs refinishing.
  • Walls –water stains, cracks,  bulging areas
  • Ceilings – water stains, damages, or sagging
  • Windows – open and close all the windows. Look for cracked panes, condition, and age of storm windows, torn or ill-fitting screens, broken locks.
  • ...

Real Estate Agents Love Wayzata MN

Minnesota Property Group/Wayzata MN

Real Estate Agent in Wayzata, MN

In 2012 I bought and renovated a home in the Far Hill Neighborhood of Wayzata, Minnesota and it was the best decision I ever made.  My family and I moved from Southwest Minneapolis and after 5 years of enjoying the small town feel of Wayzata we are looking forward to 50 more.  Wayzata has everything we want in a City and more.  Although it is challenging to find a home for sale in Wayzata MN it is worth the effort. It is no coincidence that many local realtors choose to live in Wayzata. Not only is living here so great, top real estate agents believe home values in Wayzata will continue to outpace the rest of the Twin Cities MetroMinnesota Property Group/Wayzata MN

Why Local Realtors Love the City of Wayzata

Wayzata is a jewel, a charming lakeside village located on the northeast tip of Lake Minnetonka, overlooking the sparkling blue waters of Wayzata Bay. The land mass is 3.08 square miles and water covers a .08 square mile area,  population according to the 2000 census is 4113, median home price as of August 2017 is $526,300 according to Zillow. 

Wayzata has Easy Access to the entire Twin Cities Metro

Want to see a play at...

Twin Cities Housing Market

Twin Cities Housing Market 

The Twin Cities housing market story for July in Minneapolis-St. Paul is much the same as it has been month over month for a couple of years. For sellers, it’s celebration and uncorking the champagne bottle and for buyers, it is a test of fortitude and commitment to home ownership. The Twin Cities is following a national trend of the past two years where inventory continues to shrink and median sale price continues to increase. How long this market is sustainable, is anyone’s guess but with unemployment holding at 4.3 percent the demand to purchase a home remains high. 

A look at the numbers for July has available homes for sale at 12,407 which is a drop of 18.3% from July of 2016. The month's supply of inventory sits at 2.5 compared to 3.1 last year same time, a 19.4% decline. Buyers in the Twin Cities closed on 6,020 homes, 2.6% less than July 2016 at 6,128. Declining inventory, pending sales, closed sales and days on market was half the story, the other half being an increase in median sale price, of $254,000 up 5.9% over last year, the percentage of list price received at 99.2 representing a gain of 0.8% over July of last year. 

Maybe you remember the old children’s game of musical chairs that was once popular at birthday parties. When the music stopped, the small humans who were left without a seat were out of the game. This is the current market situation. There is simply not enough homes for all the buyers who want a seat at the ownership table. The quest to buy a home at the lower price levels is a serious challenge and the once rare multiple offers situation has become the norm for desirable properties. Moreover, it is not unusual to have those same properties stay on the market no longer than a day!  

While new construction is on the rise, it will take some time before new homes make a significant difference in market supply catching up with demand....