Summer's Here and It's Time to Get Up on the Roof!

Minneapolis boasts a vibrant rooftop dining and bar scene, offering a variety of elevated experiences across the city. Here's a curated list of notable rooftop venues you might enjoy. These venues offer a mix of dining, drinks and unique atmospheres, perfect for enjoying Minneapolis from above. 

Graze: Provisions + Libations
Food Court 
520 N. 4th St., Minneapolis
A North Loop food hall featuring a rooftop patio with skyline views, offering diverse eats from vendors like Soul Bowl and Umami by Travail.

Union Rooftop
New American 
731 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
This venue features a retractable glass roof, hosting popular drag brunches and offering a vibrant atmosphere.

CRAVE American Kitchen &…

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Why We Show Up for the North Loop — Every Earth Day
By Joe Grunnet, Founder of DRG

For the past 15+ years, I've called the North Loop not just the home of my business, but a place that's given me so much more — community, connection, and a sense of purpose.

Every Earth Day, we pause. We step outside the hustle of real estate, put down the phones, and give back to this neighborhood that’s helped shape who we are, both as individuals and as a company. It’s become a tradition at DRG to roll our sleeves and participate in the North Loop Clean-Up Day. It’s not just about picking up trash — it’s about showing up, year after year, for something bigger than ourselves.

And I never show up alone. Many of our staff and Realtos, my wife and kids, have…

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Building the Future: Key Focus Areas for Today's Residential Home Builders

The residential home market is evolving at a rapid pace, influenced by advancements in technology, shifting consumer preferences, and pressing environmental concerns. Builders who wish to stay ahead of the curve must adapt to these changes and incorporate innovative practices into their projects. Here’s what builders should be focusing on in today’s new construction residential home market:

 1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Building Practices

Green Building Materials: The demand for sustainable homes is higher than ever. Builders should prioritize using eco-friendly materials such as recycled steel, bamboo, and reclaimed wood. These materials not only reduce the carbon…

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Navigating the Minneapolis Real Estate Market in the New Year

As we approach 2024, the real estate landscape in Minneapolis may be poised for some interesting shifts. From changing housing prices to evolving neighborhood trends, here are some insights into what potential buyers, sellers and investors can expect in the Minneapolis real estate market this year.

Market overview

The Minneapolis real estate market has always been dynamic, characterized by diverse neighborhoods and varying property types. In 2024, we anticipate a continuation of this trend, with certain areas experiencing more growth and demand than others. Economic factors, including employment rates and local development, are expected to play a significant role in shaping the…

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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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