Things to Consider When Buying a Home in Winter


Whether we like it or not, winter is once again upon us. For the real estate market, homebuying this time of year tends to be less frenzied than in the warmer months. Buying a home in a Minneapolis winter can have its challenges, but historically, you’ll get a better deal. Here are some factors to consider.

The Benefits of Purchasing a Home in Winter

Potential cost savings — There might be less competition in the winter, which could lead to more negotiable prices and favorable terms.

Seller motivation — Sellers listing their homes this time of year may be more motivated to sell, which could work to your advantage during negotiations.

Faster closing process — With fewer transactions occurring,…

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If you are thinking about building your next home, start here!

As a seasoned residential Realtor celebrating unique opportunities in the industry today, I find great joy in sharing valuable insights with potential homeowners, especially when it comes to the thriving market of new construction single-family homes in the Minneapolis area, including Edina, and Minnetonka. In this comprehensive blog post, I'll outline the top ten reasons why partnering with a Realtor is beneficial and essential for a smooth and successful new construction home-buying experience.

1. Local Expertise and Trusted Builders:

One of the primary advantages of working with a realtor is their in-depth knowledge of the local market and neighborhood dynamics. Realtors often have…

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Honoring Veterans: From Service to Homeownership

As a veteran, Veterans Day holds a unique significance. It’s a day of pride, reflection and camaraderie. It’s a day to remember and honor the sacrifices made by countless men and women in uniform. But for me, it’s also a day that seamlessly transitions into my business helping veterans achieve the dream of homeownership through VA Loans.

Veterans Day reminds me of the values I learned in the military: duty, honor and commitment. These values are not left behind when we take off our uniform. Instead, they continue to guide us in our civilian lives. One way to carry these values forward is by assisting fellow veterans in achieving a goal that many only dream of—owning their own homes.

The…

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Figuring Out How Much You Can Afford When Buying a Home

Determining your budget is a crucial step in the homebuying process. It ensures that you’re looking for homes that you can comfortably afford without straining your finances. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to determine a budget for purchasing your next home.

1. Assess your financial situation

Income and expenses: Start by examining your monthly income and expenses. This includes your salary, any additional sources of income, and regular bills such as utilities, groceries, car payments, and student loans.

Savings and debt: Consider your savings, including any down payment funds, emergency fund, and retirement accounts. Also, calculate your total debt, including credit card balances,…

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Affordability Matters More Than Interest Rates

When it comes to homeownership, many buyers tend to focus on the current interest rates as the primary factor influencing their decision. While interest rates do play a significant role in determining the overall cost of a mortgage, there are other crucial aspects to consider. One of the most important of these is affordability. Here are some questions to help you determine if you are truly ready to own a home.

Do you have a good job?

Your job and income level will greatly influence your ability to afford homeownership. It’s not just about the current salary you earn but also the stability of your job and the potential for career growth. Are you confident that your income will remain steady in the…

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ARE you open to homeownership, but don't know where to start?

Becoming a homeowner is a significant milestone, and for first-time homebuyers, it can be both exciting and intimidating. As a lender specializing in mortgages for first-time buyers, it's our mission to help you navigate this journey with confidence. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the top 10 things to consider when you're open to the possibilities of homeownership. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to start your homeownership journey on the right foot.

1. Financial Preparedness:

The first and most crucial step is assessing your financial readiness. Consider your current income, savings, and monthly expenses. Review your credit score and history. A…

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Equity Is a Game Changer for Homeowners Looking To Sell 

If you’re a homeowner, you might be torn on whether or not to sell your house right now. Maybe that’s because you don’t want to take on a higher mortgage rate on your next home. If that’s your biggest hurdle, understanding your equity may be exactly what you need to help you feel more comfortable making your move.

What Equity Is and How It Works

Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on the loan. And recently, that equity has been growing far faster than you may expect.

Over the last few years, home prices rose dramatically, and that gave your equity a big boost very quickly. While the market has started to normalize, there’s still an imbalance between the number…

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DRG has partnered with THE best moving company in the Twin Cities!  From beginning to end, AAA Movers ensures that your move will be the least of your worries. Our movers are guaranteed pros and are full-time employees. You can rest easy knowing that your items will be protected by the best during your move.

We strive to earn your satisfaction with our services by making sure the job gets done right the first time. The AAA Movers team is here to assist with any issue that may arise before, during and after the move! AAA Movers will always take compassion in our careers; we are a brand that makes our customers and our community the priority. It is important that we make your last day in your old home as pleasant as your first in the new one.

Mention…

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Congratulations on your upcoming home to lease! We at DRG are thrilled for you and appreciate your trust in us to help you find this home. Our priority is to ensure you have the best experience during this exciting time. To further assist you, we have partnered with Paragon Insurance Group, an exceptional insurance company that shares our commitment to exceeding expectations.

Paragon Insurance Group offers a unique advantage with access to rates from over 20 different companies. This enables them to provide you with the most comprehensive coverage at a competitive price for your renter's insurance. 

To help you get started, email Debby Berg d.berg@paragongoc.com  our designated representative from Paragon Insurance Group.  Use code in the subject…

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I wanted to write this regarding the recent discussions and proposals surrounding rent control in Minneapolis. As an Mpls landlord, I believe it is crucial to share our thoughts and concerns about the potential negative effects of implementing strict rent control measures within the city.

First, let me acknowledge the importance of ensuring fair and affordable housing for all residents. We understand the need to address the rising cost of living and the challenges faced by renters in our community. However, it is vital to consider the potential drawbacks and unintended consequences of rent control policies before making any hasty decisions. 

One of the primary concerns I have with rent control is the negative impact it can have on the supply and…

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