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        <title>DRG Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/an-outsider-to-remind-you-how-great-minneapolis-is/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/an-outsider-to-remind-you-how-great-minneapolis-is/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Sometimes You Need an Outsider to Remind You How Great Minneapolis Is</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
How do outsiders see Minneapolis? It's all about perspective ...by Joe Grunnet


It was one of those perfect Minneapolis summer afternoons. A Wednesday, about 80 degrees, sun out.


I had a 4:30 showing at The Ivy Residences  downtown. I got there early, valeted my car at The Ivy and walked down Nicollet Mall for a quick bite.


When I got back, I sat down at the lobby bar for a glass of water before the showing. An older couple was sitting near me, talking about their trip.


&quot;What a great city.&quot;


As I got up to leave, I asked where they were from.


&quot;New Jersey.&quot;


They asked where I was from. I told them, &quot;Right here.&quot;


Then they said, &quot;What a great city.&quot;


I laughed. &quot;I know. It's not burning down, right?&quot;


They chuckled, but then they got serious. Based on what they had seen and heard outside Minnesota, they expected Minneapolis to be burned out, unsafe and going downhill.


They said it couldn't have been further from the truth.


They had a great time downtown. They loved the hotels. They spent an afternoon in the North Loop, had drinks on the patio at Monte Carlo and an amazing dinner at Porzana.


Their only complaint was that they didn't stay longer.


That conversation stuck with me.





The story that doesn't get told


Yes, Minneapolis has issues. I'm not going to pretend it doesn't. But every major city in America has issues. That doesn't mean the whole city is falling apart, and it definitely doesn't mean there aren't a lot of great things happening here.


We have some of the best restaurants in the country. We have the lakes, the river, great parks, professional sports, theaters, historic buildings and neighborhoods that keep growing and getting better.


That Wednesday, the North Loop was packed. Nicollet Mall had people walking around. Downtown hotels were full of visitors. People were outside enjoying a beautiful summer day.


That is also the story of Minneapolis. It just doesn't get told nearly as often.


Proud to sell it


I have lived and worked in Minneapolis for most of my adult life. I have built my business here for 20 years, raised my family here and spent my career helping people buy, sell and rent homes here.


I know the city isn't perfect. I also know it is nowhere near the place some people make it out to be.


Sometimes it takes a couple from New Jersey to remind you how good we really have it.


I'm proud to promote Minneapolis, proud to sell it and proud to be part of it every day.


Thinking about downtown living?


Condos, lofts and townhomes in the North Loop, Mill District and across downtown Minneapolis. Let's talk.



Joe GrunnetBroker and Owner, DRG MinneapolisJoe@DRGMpls.com  |  612-244-6613




 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:22:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/minneapolis-property-taxes-are-going-up-heres-what-it-actually-means-for-your-home/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/minneapolis-property-taxes-are-going-up-heres-what-it-actually-means-for-your-home/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Minneapolis Property Taxes Are Going Up. Here's What It Actually Means for Your Home.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 

If you saw the headline about an 11.3 property tax increase and your stomach dropped, you are not alone. I have been getting a lot of questions about it.


Let me give you the real numbers, the reason behind them, and the part nobody in the news coverage is talking about: what your actual options are.




WHAT WAS ACTUALLY PROPOSED


WHY THIS IS HAPPENING


THE HONEST MATH ON YOUR BILL


NONE OF THIS IS FINAL YET


WHAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY DO ABOUT IT





What Was Actually Proposed


On August 12, Mayor Jacob Frey unveiled a $2.3 billion budget for 2027. It includes an 11.3 increase to the city property tax levy. For the owner of a median-value Minneapolis home, currently $351,400, that works out to about $409 more per year, or $34 a month.


That would be the largest levy increase in Minneapolis in at least 26 years.


The city says it is closing more than $60 million in budget pressures. That figure combines roughly $33 million needed to fully fund existing services with more than $30 million in additional departmental cost pressures. Reporting on the underlying General Fund gap has put it closer to $30 to $33 million. Both numbers get quoted, so do not be confused when you see them side by side.


To get the levy down to 11.3, the mayor cut over $20 million in spending, eliminated roughly 100 positions, and consolidated departments. Without those moves, he says the increase would have topped 19.


For comparison, St. Paul's mayor proposed a 6.8 levy increase the following day, which works out to about $58 for the median St. Paul home.


Why This Is Happening, and It Starts Downtown


Here is the piece most people miss.


Property taxes are not a rate you pay on your home in isolation. The city sets a total dollar amount it needs to collect. That amount gets divided among every property in Minneapolis based on assessed value and property type. When one group of properties loses value, the rest of us cover the difference.


Downtown commercial real estate has been losing value for five straight years. Office building values across the city are down roughly 20. Downtown commercial values dropped 13.7 in the most recent assessment and have lost close to 35 of their value since 2022, when remote work started hollowing out office demand.


Commercial property is taxed at roughly twice the rate of residential. So when office towers get reassessed downward, their tax bill shrinks and yours grows to fill the gap.


In 2020, residential property owners in Minneapolis paid 47.4 of the city's property taxes. Today it is 55.6. That shift happened in six years.











The city assessor has been clear that fixing this would take action at the State Legislature. It is not something the City Council can vote away.


So yes, the levy is going up. But part of your bill is going up because downtown is worth less than it used to be.


The Honest Math on Your Bill


That $409 number is going to mislead a lot of people, so let me walk it through slowly.


First: you are not writing one property tax check. You are writing four.


Your annual bill splits roughly like this:




About 45 to the City of Minneapolis and the Park Board


About 25 to Hennepin County


About 25 to Minneapolis Public Schools


About 5 to the Met Council and other districts




The 11.3 increase and the $409 apply to the first piece only. The county, the school board, and the rest set their own levies on their own schedules. So read that headline as &quot;$409 from one of the four,&quot; not &quot;$409 total.&quot;





Second: the levy percentage is not your percentage.


Here is the part almost nobody explains. The city does not set a tax rate and apply it to your home. It decides the total dollars it needs to collect, $606 million under this proposal, and then divides that bill across every property in Minneapolis based on assessed value and property type.


Picture the city's tax bill as one pizza that has to get eaten every year. Downtown office towers used to eat a large share of it. Their values collapsed, so their share shrank. The pizza did not get any smaller. Everyone else's slice got bigger.


That is how your bill can go up in a year your home's value went down.


Here is what that looked like in real life. In 2025 the city approved a levy increase of 6.9. If the levy percentage were your percentage, every homeowner would have seen about 6.9 on the city portion of their bill.


That is not what happened. Looking at the city and Park Board portion only, so it is a fair apples-to-apples comparison:




Median home in Ward 4 (north Minneapolis): up 15.7


Median home in Ward 13 (southwest): up 14.7


Median home in Wards 2 and 10, where more values fell: up 7.3




Same levy, three very different bills. The gap is the shift doing its work, moving burden between neighborhoods and between property types.


When the final 2027 number lands, do not assume your bill moves 11.3. It could be half that. It could be double.


And if you own a condo downtown, your unit is residential, not commercial. You are on the side of the shift that picks up burden, not the side that sheds it. A soft downtown office market does not mean a soft tax bill for you. Often it means the opposite.


None of This Is Final Yet


The mayor's proposal is a starting point, not a decision. The City Council has changed his levy number before.


The Budget Committee, which is all 13 council members, is reviewing it now. Council President Elliott Payne has said he is not sure the balance between job cuts and a double-digit levy is right. Budget Committee Chair Aisha Chughtai has been pointed about police overtime spending. Expect the final number to move.




Dates That Actually Matter



September 9Board of Estimate and Taxation public hearing on the maximum 2027 levy, 5:05 p.m.

September 23BET votes to set the maximum levy. This is the ceiling. After this date the number can come down, but it cannot go up. If you want to influence the top end, September is your window, not December.

NovemberTruth in Taxation notices hit your mailbox with the proposed number for your specific parcel.

December 15Truth in Taxation public hearing, followed by the City Council's final adoption vote.




One more thing to watch. The Park Board asked for a 5.86 levy increase and the mayor's proposal gives it 2.5. The board says that could cost up to 26 jobs. Parks are part of that 45 slice of your bill, so this fight affects your number too.


What You Can Actually Do About It


Nobody enjoys writing a bigger check. But people also want their streets plowed and their potholes filled. Both things are true.


Here is how I would think about it depending on where you sit.


&quot;From a mortgage standpoint, property taxes don't exist separately from housing affordability. For most homeowners with an escrow account, higher taxes eventually show up as a higher monthly mortgage payment. And for buyers, we have to include property taxes when determining what they can comfortably afford and qualify for. An extra $50 or $75 a month may not sound dramatic by itself, but when you combine taxes with higher insurance costs, HOA dues and mortgage rates, it all affects purchasing power.&quot;


— JJ Ellingson, Owner &amp; Mortgage Broker, CFR Mortgage





If you are staying put


Budget the increase and move on. Then check whether you qualify for Minnesota's Homestead Credit Refund. A lot of Minneapolis homeowners are eligible and never file for it. If your assessed value looks wrong compared to what similar units in your building actually sold for, you have the right to appeal. I can pull the comparable sales for you.


If you are thinking about right-sizing


This is the conversation I am having most often right now. A smaller home or a condo in a different price band carries a lower tax base, lower utilities, and less maintenance. If your kids are gone and you are heating and taxing square footage you no longer use, the math on moving has changed. I will run the actual numbers with you, current bill versus projected bill, before you decide anything.


If you are thinking about renting it out


Some owners are better off holding the asset and letting a tenant carry the cost. We manage properties across downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods, and I can tell you honestly whether your unit rents for enough to make that work. Sometimes it does not. I will tell you either way.


If you are buying


Do not just look at the listed tax figure on a property. Ask what the assessed value is doing and how it compares to recent sales in the building. That number is going to matter more over the next few years than it has in the past.




Let's Look at Your Actual Numbers


I have been selling condos, lofts, and townhomes in Minneapolis for a long time, and I have watched this downtown shift happen in real time. I would rather help you make an informed decision than watch you react to a headline.


If you want to know what this means for your specific property, call me. 






Joe Grunnet Broker and Owner, DRG MinneapolisJoe@DRGMpls.com  |  612-244-6613







 


Sources: City of Minneapolis 2027 Recommended Budget Address and budget calendar; Minnesota Star Tribune coverage of the 2027 budget proposal; Minneapolis Assessor's 2026 Assessment Report as reported by Axios Twin Cities; MPR News on the Minneapolis and St. Paul budget proposals; Minneapolis Times ward-level property tax analysis; Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board 2027-28 budget materials.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:06:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/how-to-sell-your-condo-in-downtown-minneapolis/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/how-to-sell-your-condo-in-downtown-minneapolis/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>How to Sell Your Condo in Downtown Minneapolis</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Why do some condos sit on the market for months while others attract the right buyers and the right offers? This report outlines the key strategies that give condo sellers a decisive advantage in today's market.


Economic times are changing. The real estate marketplace is changing too — and so must your home-selling strategy. With conflicting housing reports and ongoing uncertainty, it's easy to feel stuck. But with the right information, you can avoid the pitfalls most sellers fall into and get your home sold at the best price in the timeframe you need.



1. The Biggest Blunder That Keeps Condos &quot;For Sale&quot; Too Long


The most critical decision you'll make as a seller is where to set your asking price. Sellers have three choices: below market value, at real market value, or above market value. The biggest mistake is pricing above market value with the intention of &quot;having room to negotiate.&quot;


This seems logical — but it backfires. When a home is priced more than one or two percent above real market value, agents simply won't show it. With so many homes to choose from, they won't waste their clients' time on overpriced listings. The result is almost zero activity.


Market statistics show that homes being sold are the ones priced at or slightly below real market value. Here's why that strategy works: once a buyer reaches the point of making an offer, they've already mentally bought your home. They don't want to start over. That's your leverage. You can hold firm because moving their price up is far easier than asking them to restart the entire decision process.


A seller who prices above market value will:




Have difficulty getting showings


Endure months of stress and uncertainty


Potentially carry two mortgage payments


Still have to negotiate down when an offer finally comes


End up at market value anyway — after 6 to 8 months instead of 30 to 60 days









2. The Surprising Way Sellers Sabotage Their Own Sale


Faulty pricing logic isn't the only trap. Emotion plays an equally dangerous role. Your home holds memories and represents a major financial investment. That makes it easy to overestimate what your personal upgrades are worth to a buyer.


For every advantage you see in your home, a buyer can see a disadvantage. A custom entertainment center you love may be the wrong wood color for the next person. A location next to a school that you find convenient may be a dealbreaker for someone else.


How to stay objective:




Get realistic. Your upgrades may not carry the same value to buyers as they do to you.


Listen to your agent. Her objectivity will clarify which features have emotional value to you but no monetary value to buyers.


Use the Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This shows final sale prices of comparable homes nearby — the most objective benchmark available.


Check the competition. Tour other similarly priced listings and compare. This is exactly what buyers are doing.


Fix the easy things. Remove clutter, let in light, repaint, re-carpet. Small cosmetic changes have an outsized impact on buyer emotion.








3. The Most Powerful Tactic Sellers Miss for Attracting Qualified Buyers


A changing market can tempt sellers into going FSBO (For Sale By Owner) to save on commission. The problem is that FSBO buyers are also hunting for a bargain — hoping to pay at least the amount of the commission they assume you're saving. It's impossible for both parties to save the same fee. The seller almost always ends up selling for less.


FSBO sellers attract lowballers, tire-kickers, and unqualified shoppers. Most end up listing with an agent within 30 to 60 days anyway — after months of wasted time and frustration.


The majority of serious buyers are working with an agent, because it costs them nothing extra to do so. That's where you need to be — in front of those agents and their pre-qualified clients. A quality agent will:




Promote your home to the full agent network


Screen and pre-qualify every buyer before a showing


Bring only buyers with the financial means and the right criteria to purchase your home


Dramatically reduce lowball offers





4. Why Bad Sales Happen to Good People


A home sale is a legal transaction governed by state and federal laws. When sellers and buyers deal directly with each other, the potential for misrepresentation and misunderstanding — and the lawsuits that follow — increases significantly.


Consider a seller who fails to mention a small roof leak because it &quot;doesn't really affect anything.&quot; Three months after closing, a rainstorm turns that small leak into a kitchen flood. The buyer sues. The seller pays more in legal fees than an agent's commission would have ever cost.


What you need to know:




In almost every state, sellers must disclose every known defect. Failure to do so creates legal liability.


You remain open to a lawsuit for one full year after closing for any undisclosed defect.


Transactions handled without a professional agent end up in court at a significantly higher rate.


A quality agent conducts a walk-through, documents all disclosures, and ensures the buyer signs off — protecting you before, during, and after the transaction.





5. How to Choose the Right Agent and Get Your Asking Price


The agent you choose determines whether this experience is manageable or miserable. There are three keys to identifying the right one:


Rapport. Do you feel comfortable talking openly with this person? If things get difficult — and they can in uncertain markets — you need to be able to communicate clearly and honestly. Look for a genuine connection first.


Personal marketing. How does the agent present herself through her materials? The quality of how she markets herself is a direct signal of how she will market your home. An agent who does not market herself effectively is not likely to market your home effectively.


Reputation within the real estate community. Your agent's reputation with other agents directly impacts how much attention those agents pay to your listing. Three ways to check:




Call the local Board of Real Estate and ask for agents who have won service awards.


Call the manager of the agent's office and ask directly about their reputation.


Ask the agent for references from agents at other companies — then call them.





Want the Complete Seller Guide?


If this was helpful, the full version goes deeper into pricing strategy, buyer psychology, legal protections, and how to position your condo to sell in today’s downtown market. It’s completely free.Email me at joe@drgmpls.com and include &quot;Seller Guide&quot; in the subject line. 


 









5 Promises When You Work With Me









When you become a Client for Life, me and my team commit to:




Sell your home in the timeframe you need.


Get you the highest price possible in today's marketplace.


Market your home to other agents so that together we bring you only qualified buyers who will find your home a perfect fit.


Tell you the truth about your home and the current marketplace, even when it may be difficult to hear.


Protect you by covering every legal and regulatory base required.




Ready to Sell Your Condo?


Don't wait for the &quot;perfect&quot; market. The best time to sell is when you have the right strategy and the right partner. Give me a call today.


Joe Grunnet — Broker | Owner, DRG Phone: (612) 244-6613 Email: Joe@DRGMpls.com Website: drgmpls.com 700 Washington Ave N, 101, Minneapolis, MN 55401
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 08:23:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/open-house-host-opportunity--downtown-minneapolis/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/open-house-host-opportunity--downtown-minneapolis/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Open House Host Opportunity – Downtown Minneapolis</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
We’re expanding our open house team and looking for 2–3 driven, professional individuals who enjoy meeting people and creating great experiences—without the pressure of becoming a full-time Realtor.


This role focuses on hosting open houses for downtown condos, lofts, and townhomes from March through November. You’ll be the face of the property during open houses, welcoming buyers, sharing details, and helping create a strong first impression.


You’ll be paid $25 per hour, and if you’re a licensed Realtor, you’ll also earn a referral fee on buyer deals that close from your open house leads. Non-licensed hosts are welcome and paid hourly.


We provide training, signage, tools, and support and you bring professionalism, reliability, great people skills, and a dependable car.


This is a perfect fit for:




Professionals looking for flexible weekend work


People who love real estate but don’t want full-time sales


Outgoing, organized, and trustworthy individuals




If you take pride in doing things the right way and enjoy helping buyers feel comfortable and informed, we’d love to connect.


Here's my info to connect:Joe GrunnetDRG Owner/Urban RealtorJoe@DRGMpls.com612-244-6613


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:13:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/navigating-the-minneapolis-real-estate-market-in-the-new-year/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/navigating-the-minneapolis-real-estate-market-in-the-new-year/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Navigating the Minneapolis Real Estate Market in 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Navigating the Minneapolis Real Estate Market in 2026


Every new year brings questions about the Minneapolis real estate market. Is now a good time to buy? Should you sell? What’s actually happening out there? As we move through 2026, one thing is clear: the market isn’t chaotic, frozen, or falling apart. It’s more thoughtful. And strategy matters more than ever.


Here’s what we’re seeing on the ground.


Market overview


Minneapolis has always been a neighborhood-driven market, and that hasn’t changed. What has changed is how buyers and sellers approach decisions.


We’re no longer in a rush-everything, bid-over-asking environment. But we’re also not in a wait-and-see standstill. Well-priced homes in strong locations still move. Others don’t.


The Big Picture


Minneapolis has always been a neighborhood-driven market, and that hasn’t changed. What has changed is how buyers and sellers approach decisions.


We’re no longer in a rush-everything, bid-over-asking environment. But we’re also not in a wait-and-see standstill. Well-priced homes in strong locations still move. Others don’t. In 2026, success depends less on timing the market and more on understanding your options and acting with clarity.


Home Prices: Stable, Not Surprising


Home prices across Minneapolis have remained relatively steady. You’re not seeing the dramatic swings of a few years ago, but you’re also not seeing major drops across the board.


Downtown condos and townhomes vary widely based on:




Building quality


HOA health


Layout and condition


Parking and storage


Location within the city




Some homes sell quickly. Others sit. Pricing matters, but so does preparation and presentation.


The buyers who are active right now aren’t chasing headlines. They’re making decisions based on monthly payments, long-term comfort, and how the home fits their life.


Buyers and Sellers: A More Balanced Dynamic


This isn’t a one-size-fits-all market. Buyers generally have more breathing room than they did a few years ago. There’s more inventory, more choice, and more opportunity to be thoughtful. Sellers still have strong opportunities, but only when expectations align with the market. Homes that are priced right and positioned well attract attention. Homes that aren’t tend to linger. Negotiation is back. So is discernment. That’s not a bad thing. It just means strategy matters.


Neighborhoods and Livability


Instead of chasing “up-and-coming” labels, buyers are asking better questions in 2026.


They want to know:




How does this building live day to day?


What’s included in the HOA?


How walkable is this area?


Does this home still work if life changes?




Downtown Minneapolis continues to appeal to people who value walkability, access to the river, dining, events, and a low-maintenance lifestyle. The appeal isn’t about trends. It’s about livability.


Smarter Tools, Better Decisions


Technology has changed how people search, but it hasn’t replaced local expertise.


Most buyers now expect:




Better listing data


Clear pricing context


Virtual access when needed


Faster, more transparent communication




The goal isn’t more information. It’s better information.


Tools can help narrow options, but real clarity still comes from understanding buildings, neighborhoods, and timing in a very local way.


What This Means for You


If you’re thinking about buying or selling in 2026, this isn’t about guessing where the market goes next.


It’s about asking:




What do I want my next move to support?


What matters most in my day-to-day life?


What tradeoffs am I willing to make?




The right move isn’t always about acting fast. Sometimes it’s about planning well.


And when you’re ready, having someone who knows Minneapolis — not just the data, but the details — makes all the difference.


If buying or selling is even a possibility this year, a conversation now can save a lot of uncertainty later.


Joe GrunnetDRG Owner/Urban RealtorJoe@DRGMpls.com612-244-6613
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:13:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/standing-with-our-community/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/standing-with-our-community/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Standing With Our Community</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
These are hard days in Minneapolis.  HEARTMPLS


There’s a lot happening in our city right now, fear, uncertainty, tension and many of our residents, neighbors, clients, and local business owners do not feel safe in their own homes or communities. That weighs on us.


As a company rooted here since 2007,  we want to be clear about where we stand.


At the most basic level, every person deserves to feel safe in their home, in their neighborhood, and while going about daily life. Right now, that sense of safety is missing for many people around us.


We may not all see things the same way, but we can agree on this: our city needs empathy, calm leadership, and people willing to stand with their community, not turn away from it.


This is a moment to show who we are.


That can look different for each of us:




Checking in on clients, tenants, coworkers, and neighbors


Supporting local businesses that are struggling


Being patient, respectful, and thoughtful in how we communicate


Showing up with compassion, even when conversations are uncomfortable




We don’t expect anyone to have all the answers. We do expect ourselves to lead with humanity.


Minneapolis is our home. The people who live and work here matter. Let’s continue to be a company that stands with our community, especially when it’s hard. 


Thank you for showing up the way you do, every day.


Joe &amp; DRG Leadership Team
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2026 11:23:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/comprehensive-buyers-guide-to-minneapolis-real-estate/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/comprehensive-buyers-guide-to-minneapolis-real-estate/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Comprehensive Buyer's Guide to Minneapolis Real Estate</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 







Buyer Process






Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones of your life, and being prepared can make all the difference. Knowing what to expect at each stage helps reduce stress and allows you to enjoy the journey. This step-by-step first-time buyer’s guide is designed to walk you through the process with confidence. For a more in-depth, personalized plan tailored to your goals, contact Isaac to schedule a buyer consultation.








1. Initial Consultation




We’ll start by sitting down to talk through your goals, the features you’re looking for in a home, your budget, and your ideal timeline. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the buying process so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish. By the end of our meeting, you’ll have a clear understanding of the plan we’ll follow and how we’ll work together to find your perfect home.





2. Prepare Finances




At this stage, the goal is to put you in the strongest possible financial position before your dream home hits the market. I’ll connect you with my trusted network of lenders and financial experts to determine precisely what you can comfortably spend on a house and down payment, and secure a formal loan pre-approval. This preparation ensures you’re ready to act quickly and confidently as a serious contender in the market.





3. Home Search




You’ll receive a personalized MLS search tailored to your criteria, plus access to off-market opportunities you won’t find online. I’ll coordinate and tour homes with you, offering guidance and insight at every step. Along the way, I’ll check in weekly with market updates, new listings, and feedback so we can fine-tune the search as needed.





4. Offer




When you’re ready to make an offer, I’ll walk you through each step so you feel confident in the strategy we choose. We’ll review market data, recent sales, and the seller’s position to determine the right price and terms. I’ll explain how contingencies work such as inspections, financing, and appraisal and how they protect you during the transaction. Throughout negotiations, I’ll be your advocate, keeping you informed, answering questions, and ensuring every decision we make aligns with your goals.





5. Due Diligence




The inspection phase is about uncovering anything that might not be obvious. A licensed inspector will assess the property for hidden issues, and if something comes up, I will guide you through negotiating repairs, credits, or other solutions. If you are purchasing in a common interest community, we will also review all related documents and disclosures.





6. Approve




We finalize your loan approval by working closely with your lender to ensure everything stays on track for closing. I coordinate each step so the process moves forward smoothly.





7. Celebrate




This is the best part You have officially bought a home, and we celebrate the milestone together as you settle into your new place.


Long-Term Relationship




My role doesn’t end at closing. I’m here to support you with whatever homeownership throws your way whether it’s navigating market changes, tackling a renovation, or finding your next property. You’ll also receive invitations to exclusive client events and early access to off-market listings for future moves or investments.





Joe GrunnetBroker | DRG | Condo Expert700 Washington Ave N, Ste 101


Joe@DRGMpls.com612-244-6613























 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:51:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/choose-a-brokerage-focused-entirely-on-minneapolis-for-your-next-home-purchase/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/choose-a-brokerage-focused-entirely-on-minneapolis-for-your-next-home-purchase/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Choose a brokerage focused entirely on Minneapolis for your next home purchase</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 

DRG focuses entirely on the Minneapolis real estate market. Unlike firms that operate in multiple cities, DRG dedicates all resources to this area, including The North Loop, Downtown West, Northeast, Loring Park, and more. This focus allows the team to understand each neighborhood, building, and rental trend in real time, providing clients with accurate information and access to units.


Local Expertise


Founded in 2007 by Joe Grunnet, DRG has more than 15 years of experience helping clients seamlessly navigate the Minneapolis rental market. The team combines local knowledge with expertise in leasing, property management, and client services. Over the years, DRG has built strong trust with clients and local realtors. Agents provide guidance on neighborhood selection and market trends beyond basic listings, helping the client make informed decisions in the home-buying process.


Real-Time Data


The Minneapolis rental market changes rapidly, with prices, availability, and specials shifting frequently. Real-time data refers to current, live information gathered directly from building management systems and leasing updates. DRG uses this data to track unit availability, rent changes, and move-in specials as they happen — often before that information appears on public listings. This immediacy gives clients an advantage: they can act quickly on opportunities, access units efficiently, and make decisions based on the actual market rather than delayed reports or averages, ensuring a more precise and more reliable picture of the Minneapolis real estate market.


Trusted Local Relationships


By focusing exclusively on Minneapolis, DRG has built strong, trusted relationships with local developers, building owners, and property managers. These connections are built on 20+ years of proven reliability and professionalism, ensuring clients can rely on DRG for accurate information and guidance. Whether it’s access to new units, updates on renovations, or details about upcoming listings, clients benefit from a network built on trust, giving them confidence that every recommendation is dependable and in their best interest.


Advantages for Clients




      Instant access to listings


      Up-to-date market information


      Efficiency in touring


      Expert Neighborhood guidance


      Confident decision-making




With DRG’s real-time updates and trusted connections, finding your next Minneapolis home just got a lot easier.


If you’d like to talk through the options, I’m happy to jump on a quick call. You can book a time with me here:


https://calendly.com/joe-drgmpls/phone-call-w-joe-grunnet


Looking forward to helping you find a home that fits both your needs and your faith.


Best,Joe GrunnetDRG | MinneapolisJoe@DRGMpls.comwww.DRGMpls.com




 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 13:18:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/if-netflix-characters-moved-to-minneapolis-heres-where-theyd-live/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/if-netflix-characters-moved-to-minneapolis-heres-where-theyd-live/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>If Netflix Characters Moved to Minneapolis, Here’s Where They’d Live</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 

What if the Netflix characters Emily Cooper, Chuck Bass, and Cassie Howard all moved to Minneapolis? Where do you think these personalities would live, and why? We see Emily Cooper thriving in North Loop cafés and walkable streets as she searches for her next romance. Chuck Bass would dominate downtown luxury, where prestige and drama meet every corner. Meanwhile, Cassie Howard from Euphoria would shine in a DRG Tower Loft, mixing style, energy, and sophistication in the perfect modern space. What other characters or celebs do you see moving to our city?  Comment below


1. Emily Cooper (Emily in Paris) → North Loop Loft





Walkable streets, trendy cafés, and boutique shops give Emily plenty of insta-worthy spots to explore—and maybe meet a cute guy along the way. The best part? She doesn't have to keep trying to learn French here. 


2. Wednesday Addams (Wednesday) → Loring Park Gothic Apartment





Wednesday Addams would feel right at home in a Loring Park Gothic apartment, surrounded by moody architecture, shadowy corners, and plenty of pigeons to keep her company.


3. Joe Goldberg (You) → Uptown





Joe needs Uptown because it feeds both his love of bookstores and his need to watch the world. A part-time gig at Magers &amp; Quinn would be the perfect cover while he blends in among the shelves.


4. Dustin Henderson (Stranger Things) → Northeast Arts District





The Northeast Arts District is full of surprises, just like the Upside Down—minus the monsters. Dustin would love it. 


5. Abe Quevedo  (Love is Blind) → Lake of the Isles





Where would Love is Blind star Abe Quevedo live? Abe told DRG that he would choose a house right by Lake of the Isles. &quot;It’s a calm part of the city and near the dog park.&quot;


Abe is a Minneapolis native and loves the city, especially the beautiful lakes and parks where he walks his dog in his free time. 


6. Chuck Bass (Gossip Girl) → Four Seasons Downtown





 We've all heard of Chuck Bass, and this Upper East Sider will settle for nothing less than the crème de la crème, which means luxury only. If he comes to Minneapolis, he HAS to stay in the Four Seasons, and will settle for nothing less. 


7. Bre Tiesi (Selling Sunset) →  Mill District 





With trendy restaurants a scenic riverwalk, Brie can catch breathtaking sunsets over the Mississippi while still living an upscale, walkable city life.  


8. Carrie Bradshaw (Sex &amp; the City) → Bloomington, across from Mall of America





We all know Carrie loves to shop - who else do we know that spends over $15,000 on shoes alone? Even though the North Loop is a huge shopping center, Carrie needs to be near somewhere with even more selection--The Mall of America in Bloomington. 


9. Beth Harmon (Queen’s Gambit) → Downtown East





The neighborhood of Downtown East is all about strategy and structure - perfect for an award winning chess player


10. Cassie Howard (Euphoria) → Tower Lofts at DRG





Cassie would be living in Euphoria, literally at the Tower Lofts. Sleek, modern, and stylish, the loft feels like an extension of her world on the show.


If Netflix characters were picking a Minneapolis home, Tower Lofts would be a perfect fit for many of them. Sleek lines, modern finishes, and open spaces make these lofts perfect for balancing social life, work, and personal style, with beautiful natural light and city views that feel straight out of a TV scene. Whether hosting friends or catching up on work, every corner of DRG is built for luxury. All of these characters, from Emily Cooper to Chuck Bas, would fall in love with Tower Lofts and Minneapolis' vibrant energy.


If you’d like to talk through the options, I’m happy to jump on a quick call. You can book a time with me here:


https://calendly.com/joe-drgmpls/phone-call-w-joe-grunnet


Looking forward to helping you find a home that fits both your needs and your budget


Best,Joe GrunnetDRG | MinneapolisJoe@DRGMpls.comwww.DRGMpls.com
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 13:55:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/whip-up-our-original-eggnog-this-winter---drg-style/</guid>
    <link>https://www.drgmpls.com/blog/whip-up-our-original-eggnog-this-winter---drg-style/</link>
        <author>Joe@DRGMpls.com (Joe M. Grunnet)</author>
        <title>Whip Up our Original Eggnog this Winter - DRG Style</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Winter in Minneapolis is pure magic and what better way to celebrate it than with our own original spiked eggnog recipe? To make the season even sweeter, we whipped up our very own DRG Eggnog, crafted with dairy, rum, and ground cinnamon—DRG The perfect drink to sip on in your new cozy condo Think of it as a little cup of holiday cheer, perfect for sipping by the fire, sharing at a festive gathering, or toasting to your next cozy home adventure. View our recipe below, and send us your own favorite Christmas recipes to joe@drgmpls.com.


Ingredients






12 eggs, separated






3 cups white sugar, divided






16 fluid ounces dark rum (such as Captain Morgan® Spiced Rum)






1 teaspoon ground nutmeg






2 teaspoon ground cinnamon






2 cups heavy whipping cream 






1 quart half-and-half






How to make spiked eggnog


1. Whisk the eggs together in a large bowl with a hand mixer until they are lighter in color and creamy.


2. Add sugar and stir to blend until all sugar is dissolved in the egg mixture.


3. Add half-and-half, heavy cream, and vanilla.


4. Stir to combine.


5. Strain the mixture.


6. Add liquor and stir to combine. Top with whipped cream.


7. Serve and enjoy


If you have any questions about DRG, I’m happy to jump on a quick call. You can book a time with me here:


https://calendly.com/joe-drgmpls/phone-call-w-joe-grunnet


Looking forward to helping you find a home that fits both your needs and your faith.


Best,Joe GrunnetDRG | MinneapolisJoe@DRGMpls.comwww.DRGMpls.com


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:54:00 -0600</pubDate>
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