The old saying “quality over quantity” applies to Real Estate too. Having many showings on your home is great but having successful showings is more important. A dozen window shoppers don’t mean much compared to one actual buyer. I have 5 tips to help you make the best impression and create successful showings.
When you buy a home, taxes are one of the expenses that can make a significant difference in your monthly mortgage payment. Once you apply for a mortgage, you'll see the acronyms P&I or PITI. These will depend on how you're including your taxes in your monthly payment.
Mortgage rates reached a 7 year high of 5% in 2018. However, we've been on a steady decline in 2019. What do changing rates mean for the Real Estate market? Lower rates mean it is more advantageous to sell and then buy a home.
nior living buildings are more popular than ever and for good reason. There are over 29 in Dakota county alone. It’s not the perfect fit for everyone but it is a good option for many people.
There are many stages to finding and buying a home. The showings phase is often forgotten but has a slew of unwritten showing etiquette “rules”. I’ve gathered a few tips for these steps to help you make the process go smoothly.
Buyers have higher standards and expectations nowadays. It has become increasingly important to update your home. Here are 5 ways to update your home on a budget!
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The old saying “quality over quantity” applies to Real Estate too. Having many showings on your home is great but having successful showings is more important. A dozen window shoppers don’t mean much compared to one actual buyer. I have 5 tips to help you
The Petrashek Group
When you buy a home, taxes are one of the expenses that can make a significant difference in your monthly mortgage payment. Once you apply for a mortgage, you'll see the acronyms P&I or PITI. These will depend on how you're including your taxes in your mo
Brittany Pomerenke
Mortgage rates reached a 7 year high of 5% in 2018. However, we've been on a steady decline in 2019. What do changing rates mean for the Real Estate market? Lower rates mean it is more advantageous to sell and then buy a home.
Brittany Pomerenke
nior living buildings are more popular than ever and for good reason. There are over 29 in Dakota county alone. It’s not the perfect fit for everyone but it is a good option for many people.
The Petrashek Group
There are many stages to finding and buying a home. The showings phase is often forgotten but has a slew of unwritten showing etiquette “rules”. I’ve gathered a few tips for these steps to help you make the process go smoothly.
The Petrashek Group
Buyers have higher standards and expectations nowadays. It has become increasingly important to update your home. Here are 5 ways to update your home on a budget!
Brittany Pomerenke
In the mid-2000s HGTV started broadcasting a seemingly endless variety of remodeling shows. It’s been a while, but remodeling is even more popular today. One reason for this is human nature. Let's be honest, everyone loves the satisfaction of a good befor
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Are gray walls here to stay? Yes and no. Nothing is ever here to stay, however, the color is still timeless. Gray used well is a timeless neutral color that can pull a room together. But is this trend on its last leg?
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You may not be aware there is “hype” behind dome homes but there certainly is. I’m listing a dome home soon. This got me curious about the history of dome homes and how they differ from traditional houses. Other than their unique eye-catching design, the
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I want to help prepare you for one of the biggest projects for Sellers or Buyers: packing. More specifically, deciding what to pack and what to let go. One of the most beneficial things to do when packing is decluttering. However, decluttering is time-con
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Our government has an endless number of bureaus and departments many people don’t know about or know what they do. For instance, the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) gathers Real Estate statistics. I have picked some of their most interest
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Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae have opened new doors for self-employed mortgages. In the past, the process for those self-employed was rigorous and resulted in many headaches. Fannie Mae defines self-employed as owning 25% or greater of the business but “gig”
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As soon as our Minnesota weather gets warmer, the Real Estate market goes from 0 – 120 mph in the blink of an eye. It’s often said spring is a “Sellers’ Market” but there are pros and cons. I’ve gathered some of the most common positives and negatives abo
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It isn’t over until it's over. The closing is the last step in buying or selling a home. Until the last T is crossed, the last I is dotted, and the keys are in your hand something can go wrong. These are the 4 most common ways a closing can either fall ap
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I’m sure you have seen many people and companies stating online estimates are not accurate. I will explain in depth WHY online estimates are not accurate and the proper use for them. I’ll also give a short overview of an appraisal and how important it is
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Selling a house is time-consuming. Buying a home is time-consuming. How can you possibly do both at the same time? Never fear, there is a way. Three ways in fact! I’ll outline the three ways and also explain the average timeline for the most common method
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What a Realtor can and cannot share is based on who we represent. A Realtor's obligation is protecting their client and getting them the best deal. Realtors are legally and morally obligated to tell a potential buyer anything that affects their life in a
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There are many city improvements incorporated into the Minneapolis 2040 plan. The focus for the Real Estate world is the removal of zoning laws. This has never been done before and we will experience innovation in a classic city structure.
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Real Estate Vocabulary or 'shoptalk ' can be confusing. When working with clients I aim to not only help them buy or sell a home but make sure they understand the process every step of the way. Understanding the options and Real Estate process ensures I e
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There are many variables when listing a home but we do have an average listing timeline for the process. Knowing what to expect can reduce nerves and allow planners to start planning. Here is my break down of the timeline for selling your home.
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Reselling a house after it was unsuccessful on the market is frustrating. When going back on the market for a second time, it is important to start fresh and understand what may have gone wrong the first time. Let's go over the most common 4 factors.
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There are many reasons unemployment rates affect the Real Estate market. But is the effect large enough to make an impact in Minnesota specifically? Not really, and here is why.
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We are seeing a fractured market right now. There is low inventory in single family homes from $200,000 - $400,000 and far higher inventory in the $400,000 and above range. The tricky situation with an unbalanced inventory is how intertwined the two sides
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There are 3 big reasons there is such low inventory. The amount of inventory greatly affects the market. It’s the age old principle of supply and demand. Inventory affects the prices and process of real estate. Prices rise and the process becomes faster p
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All the snow this winter means potential damage to your home. Last month we saw 31.5 inches. This surpassed the previous February snowfall record of 25.6 inches back in 1962. With all this extra snow, Ice Dams and Basement Flooding are a huge danger this
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Learn which factors determine price! Your home’s value is decided by several factors, some that fluctuate while others are more stable. During a market analysis I help home owners’ asses their houses market value. As a part of my Plan, Prepare and P
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Finding the right time to list can greatly maximize the sale price of your townhome. In Minnesota, people typically list their homes during the Spring Market. But is this the best time for you? Consider these other factors.
Brittany Pomerenke
Is spring market the best time to sell a home in Minnesota? The overall answer is "yes". However, it's important to understand the Real Estate definition of "spring" may be vastly different from your personal definition. Real Estate spring is really earl
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Is your home up to scale? How much square footage is needed to sell a home for over $400,000 in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Lakeville, Rosemount or Farmington MN? What does it take to get the highest profit possible on your home? This is part.
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Spring Market is the busiest time of the year for Real Estate. But what can we do while we’re stuck inside during the winter months? Why not prepare yourselves? Listed are helpful tips for Buyers and Sellers.
Brittany Pomerenke
We love our homes and all the memories they hold, but there does come a time when the benefits of downsizing outweigh the sentiment of our home. For help making this important decision, ask yourself these 5 important “Is it time to downsize?” questions.
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With 2018 coming to a close, there has been a lot of speculation on what interest rates will look like in 2019. What does this mean for buyers and sellers? The increase in inventory is more the result of a decrease in demand because of rising interest rat
Brittany Pomerenke
It's common for inspectors to uncover some flaws in a home inspection. This is exactly why it's important for the buyer to take advantage of their time with the inspector to learn as much as they can. They will be able to move forward in the transaction w
Brittany Pomerenke
When looking for a townhome, an Association Resale Disclosure is an important document that should be carefully reviewed by you and your Realtor. Listed are 4 keys points to look for when choosing to accept an association.
Brittany Pomerenke
What's holding you back? Maybe it's your credit score or the thought of a down payment. Buying a home is more affordable than you might think! Don't spend your hard-earned money paying someone else's mortgage when you can afford to buy your own home.
Brittany Pomerenke
There will always be pros and cons to buying a home. What are you waiting for? Read our solid reasons why you should buy a home now.
Brittany PomerenkeFlipping homes aren't as easy as it looks on TV. It takes a lot of researching, planning, and organization before the project should even be started. Having the knowledge in your industry takes time and dedication, but the results may be reflected with ca
Brittany Pomerenke
Buying or selling a home in today's market is a complex process. Why not get the help you need? An experienced Real Estate Professional will guide you on the path to your ultimate goal.
Brittany Pomerenke
Townhome living has become popular for retirees, empty nesters, and first-time homebuyers! If you are considering the leap, read these key factors to help you make the right decision.
Brittany Pomerenke
Appraisal standards have changed quite a bit over the years. If you've received a low appraisal, you understand the negative effect it has on your transaction. Listed are reasons why you may run into this issue.
Brittany Pomerenke
Purchasing a home is an exciting and emotional time. To say that it's an overwhelming experience is an understatement. How do you ease the stress? Get in-the-know! Understanding how the process works give a sense of relief. Compiled is a list of frequentl
Brittany Pomerenke
Learn the pros and cons of selling a home with a Realtor or FSBO. Which option is the best fit for you? Are you prepared to take on this big transaction?
Brittany Pomerenke
How accurate is a Zestimate? Computer algorithms can't take into account all of the key factors that go into a price opinion. However, an experienced Realtor can!
Brittany Pomerenke
5 things to know about the art of writing an offer! Knowing these 5 fundamentals will help you make confident decisions and keep your focus on the ultimate goal. Let's find you a home!
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Today's market is a tough one for buyers. The inventory is low and the demand is high. Realtor Sheryl Petrashek gives 5 examples on how to make your offer stand out in a multiple offers situation.
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What happens if I can't attend the closing on my home? Do we have other options? South of the River Realtor, Sheryl Petrashek, has the insight.
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We want to move in 6 months, when should we start looking for a home? Sheryl Petrashek shares a month by month break down of what to expect.
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Learn the Difference between a Loan Pre-approval Letter versus a Loan Commitment Letter. Information brought to you by Sheryl Petrashek, Real Estate Agent.
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So, what exactly are closing costs? This is one of the most common questions for both buyers and sellers. Let's take a look at what closing costs mean for both sides!
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What are you waiting for? Read these 4 reasons to buy a home in Spring 2018. We can help you find your dream home!
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The time has come to start the process on one of the best investments of your life. Check out our local first time home buyer programs!
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Relocation buyers are out there. Many companies are still hiring throughout the holidays and need their employees in their new positions as soon as possible. Purchasers who are looking for homes during the holidays are serious buyers and are ready to buy
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With residential home prices continuing to appreciate at levels above historic norms, some are questioning if we are heading toward another housing bubble (and subsequent burst) like the one we experienced in 2006-2008. Recently, five housing experts wei
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Are you an empty-nester? Do you want to retire where you are, or does a vacation destination sound more your style? Are you close to retirement and not ready to move yet, but living in a home that is too big in size and maintenance needs?
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Don’t get caught in the trap of renting! There are many benefits to homeownership. One of the top benefits is being able to protect yourself from rising rents by locking in your housing cost for the life of your mortgage. Don’t Become Trapped A rec
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Here are four great reasons to consider buying a home today, instead of waiting. What’s the difference between paying a mortgage and paying rent anyhow? 1. Prices Will Continue to Rise CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that home prices hav
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First-time homebuyers are often mislead about the home buying guidelines. Buying a home for the first time is no easy task. It is hard to differentiate between facts and myths without a real estate professional to guide you. According to a recent survey c
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The 5 reasons you NEED a real estate professional in your corner haven’t changed, but have rather been strengthened by the projections of higher mortgage interest rates & home prices as the market continues to pick up steam.
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Buying a home can be intimidating if you are not familiar with the terms used during the process. To start you on your path with confidence, we have compiled a list of some of the most common terms used when buying a home.
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Did you know homeowners can save money come tax season? Many Americans got some depressing news last week; either their tax return was not as large as they had hoped or, in some cases, they were told they owed additional money to either the Federal or Sta
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Planning on buying a luxury home? Does your house no longer fit your needs? Now is a great time to upgrade in the South Metro Area! We recently shared data from Trulia’s Market Mismatch Study which showed that in today’s premium home market, buyers are in
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Here are four great reasons to buy a home in the south metro today instead of waiting. 1. Prices Will Continue to Rise CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that home prices have appreciated by 6.9% over the last 12 months. The same report predicts.
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There are some people who have not purchased homes because they are uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. Everyone should realize that, unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are paying a mortgage – either yours or your lan
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According to the Beracha, Hardin & Johnson Buy vs. Rent (BH&J) Index, the U.S. housing market has continued to move deeper into buy territory, supporting the belief that housing markets across the country remain a sound investment. This is especially rele
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It may make sense to beat the rush of housing inventory that will enter the market in the spring and list your home today. Contact your Apple Valley Realtor Sheryl Petrashek today to get started!
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It’s hard to know when’s the right time to sell your house. This year is projected to be a good year to sell your home according to recent trends. This seems especially relevant in Apple Valley, Lakeville, Burnsville, Rosemount, and Farmington cities in
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The question “Are you working with a Realtor”, is commonly misunderstood. Most people don’t know what “working with an agent” is defined as. When I ask this question I want to know if you have signed Representation paper work. As a licensed Real Estate Ag
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Does your Home Measure Up? How much square footage does your home need to sell for over $400,000 in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Lakeville, Rosemount or Farmington MN? I’ve run the numbers and found there is a magic number for minimum square feet when
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Townhome Living has become very popular for Retirees and Empty Nesters! If you are wondering, “Am I Ready for Townhome Living?” there are 5 things to consider as you make the decision. Am I Ready for Townhome Living? 5 Things to Consider! Town
The Petrashek GroupIs Spring the Best Time to Sell a Home in Minnesota? The overall answer is Yes, Spring is the Best Time to Sell a home in Minnesota. However, it’s important to understand the Real Estate definition of ‘Spring’ may be vastly different th
The Petrashek GroupIf your house is larger than average, the task of updating in preparation for Selling your Home can be daunting. When updating a Super-Sized Home, one with over 3000 finished square feet you really need a comprehensive game plan. The plan should be based
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If you’re thinking about selling your home the first thought is usually, “How much is my home worth?“ Unfortunately this isn’t an easy question answered by yourself. A homes value is dependent on many outside factors such as the current economy, home dema
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Decluttering to Sell…Did that strike fear into your heart? Does the thought alone overwhelm you? Then you need to do it! There are as many different styles of decluttering as there are types of people. Some prefer the 5 minutes a day method while others..
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There is a certain amount of unpredictability in all Real Estate but thankfully trends occur and reoccur. This means your homes time on the market depends on not only the home to sell but the market itself. Real Estate is busiest in the spring....
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“Is less than a dollar a day worth letting this offer go?” Buying a home is one of the few purchases where Americans get to negotiate. In several other countries haggling is common in even small purchases like groceries or transportation fair.
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I recently had the pleasure and heartache of helping my daughter pack for college. Just packing a dorm rooms worth of items wasn’t easy and it got me thinking about the process of packing up a whole home for a move. These are my 5 tips for packing y
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Last week I met a delightful young couple from an online request to show one of my listings. Currently they are looking online for houses, then contacting the listing agents to see individual homes. It’s a normal way to start the process of buying
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I’d like to take a moment to explain an interesting market trend occurring in Real Estate. Right now there is a low inventory of homes meaning there are more buyers than homes for sale. Due to this homes going on the market are either selling...
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Here is another set of terms and acronyms that Real Estate Agents use. These focus on the Mortgage side of selling a home. Visit my post “Sheryl’s Realtor Terms Glossary” for more terms. Mortgage Terms FHA Mortgage- Federal Housing Admin
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Realtor Terms Glossary In Real Estate we use many acronyms and terms that leave clients baffled. I’ve compiled a list of terms Realtors use often. Home Sale terms EM- Earnest Money Earnest Money is a check that gets cashed immediately. The money goes dire
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In Real Estate today we have a growing question arising, a simple eight word sentence: “But the Zestimate says it’s worth this much.” The internet has completely changed the world and Real Estate is no exception. These days showings can be booked online w
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South of the River, MN Buyers have high standards and expectations. Updating your Home is extremely important, here are 5 ways to update your home on a budget. 1. Paint, Paint, and more Paint, Select fresh, modern colors but don’t stray far from th
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Whats in a square foot? There are many things that create the value of your home. Some factors are recent upgrades, year built, style of home, and perhaps most importantly location. Yes the saying location, location, location is indeed true. These are thi
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Do you need a Real Estate Agent to sell your house? Technically no, but do you really need a Hair Stylist to cut your hair or a Barista to make your coffee? A Realtor’s job is to make your life easier and get you the...
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Why is it a great time to buy your first home? There are many reasons but here are four. Record Low Interest Rates! As of January 2015 ,in Minnesota, rates for a 30 year fixed mortgage are 3.78% and a 15 year fixed mortgage is...
The Petrashek GroupFarmington To Be Built for Sale by Local Builder Hebert Homes. 19866 Denali Way, Farmington New Construction For Sale in Mystic Meadows presented by Real Estate agent Sheryl Petrashek. Hebert Homes has a 25 year history of creating beautiful homes for fam
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Is it a good idea to sell your home without a Realtor? Selling your home yourself, referred to as FSBO or “For Sale By Owner”, is an option but it a good option for you? Here are some Pros and Cons about the FSBO process to help...
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The 2015 Real Estate Market is looking bright in Minnesota. Here are three reasons to look forward to the market this year. The economy booms when there are jobs and Minnesota has the fifth lowest unemployment rate in the United States. The national avera
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There is so much to upgrade, but what’s worth upgrading? Whether you set out to find a new house or build your dream house the startling amount of options is enough to make anyones head spin. There are hundreds of options for every imaginable thing.
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New construction in Lakeville is exploding! There are plenty of Lakeville new construction opportunities available with more on the way. A new and exciting project has been approved by the Canadian Builders Mattamy Homes. This massive project titled Avonl
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People will always tell you that first impressions are extremely important and they are right! Depending where you look you will find information stating that we make impressions in anywhere from 1/10 a second to one minute. The average consensus is that
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Is an open floor plan right for you? Check out the pros and cons of open floor plans. In the 1980’s the open floor plan began gaining popularity and for good reason. No floor plan comes with out cons and it’s important to look at your...
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Welcome to Dakota County Parks….Forever Wild The Dakota County Parks system is ready for you to explore! Trails, Camping, Dog Parks, Lakes and Geocaching….What is Geocaching? Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout t
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REMAX Results Gets Involved… REMAX Results works with Charity Events of Minnesota and helps raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer, The Miracles of Mitch Foundation and Men’s Cancers. RE/MAX Results gets involved by doing an annual Breast
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Homes are springing up all over Farmington and Empire Township Minnesota! New Construction areas are humming with activity and there is a smile on the face of every tradesman I encounter! It is a great time to Buy a New Construction Home! If you are sear
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This Sunday RE/MAX Results Agents and their families were treated to an Appreciation Event by Marshall Saunders and John Collopy at Valley Fair Amusement Park in Shakopee, Minnesota. RE/MAX Results and Mother nature treated us to a nearly perfect day of w
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A Few of the Many Great Things About Living in Apple Valley, Minnesota! Not to be confused with our friends in sunny California, when you’re living in Apple Valley, Minnesota you’re living in a gem of Minneapolis’ Southern Metro. Whether
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Radon Dangers and Mitigation; What You Need to Know! Learn about Radon Dangers and Mitigation. It is easy to sit by idly and not worry about something when you can’t see, hear, taste, touch or smell it. However, more and more experts are warning
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Minnesota Radon Disclosure Requirements have Changed Rising health concerns have spurred lawmakers to make changes to the Minnesota Radon Disclosure Requirements, and here’s what they look like: Effective January 1, 2014, the Minnesota Radon Awarene
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A Few of the Many Great Things About Living in Lakeville, Minnesota! If you’re living in Lakeville, Minnesota you’re located in one the most historically rich as well as fastest-growing suburbs of the Minneapolis Metropolitan area. With a popu
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If You’re Wondering, “Can I Get a Mortgage After Foreclosure or Short Sale?” the answer is YES. Whether you’re looking for an FHA, Conventional or VA loan after Short Sale or Foreclosure, I’m here to help you find an affordab
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A Few of the Many Great Things About Living in Burnsville, Minnesota! Learn about the city that has undergone some enormous changes throughout the past half decade making living in Burnsville, Minnesota more exciting than ever! History: The city originate
The Petrashek GroupTraditional Segment Blooms, Sellers More Optimistic. After being cooped up for a long, cold winter, homeowners in the 13-county Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area showed renewed signs of optimism in March. Seller activity rose 5.5 percent to 6,492 new
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What to expect from New Construction Homes in Lakeville? New Construction Homes in Lakeville nearly came to a screeching halt in 2008, most local builders folded up their tents and hunkered down for the long wait. I was doing a market analysis for a clie
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Today I had a closing on a home in Mendota Heights. Yes, occasionally I deviate a little and list a home outside of our focus cities! My Client, the Seller, flew back to town to close on the home. Prior to deciding to come back,...
The Petrashek GroupThe Luxury Home Sales Update is ready for January and it’s listed below. In our cold weather climate the Real Estate Market is so seasonal. Keep in mind that it starts out with First Time Homebuyers purchasing the townhomes and entry-level homes, w
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Old Man Winter, Low Inventory and Fewer Foreclosures Weigh on Sales Low Inventory in Minneapolis, Minnesota (March 12, 2014) – The 13-county Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area housing market was negatively affected by the extreme winter. Inventory le
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There are 3 Things to know before you Build a New Home in Farmington MN! Building a Custom Home is a dream come true for many families. Selecting the location, lot, floor plan, finishes and special custom details makes the home truly unique and best...
The Petrashek GroupThe Low Inventory of Homes for Sale, What it Means for You! The 13 County Metro is considered to have a balanced inventory when we have 21,000-24,000 active properties for sale. The Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors tells us this amount of invent
The Petrashek Group4 Reasons for the Rising Cost of New Construction Homes! New Construction Home Prices are Rising in Lakeville and Farmington! Acutally New Construction home prices are rising in Savage, Prior Lake, Elko New Market and nearly all other areas too. Why are
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Just a light-hearted post to start out the year! Here’s 18 things you don’t Know about Sheryl Petrashek: 1. I have a bit of a green thumb as evidenced by my 4 and 6-year-old Poinsettia plants. Sadly, the 5-year-old didn’t make it last
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New Construction Warranty in Minnesota is called a 1-2-10 Warranty. Minnesota State Statutes require this warranty as a minimum level of protection for consumers. Builders of a new home must provide a 1 year warranty on the entire home, 2 years warranty
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It doesn’t matter if you are selling your home in Eagan, Savage, Farmington or Rosemount, Curb Appeal is an important part of marketing your home. The Internet has exaggerated the importance of Curb Appeal and has actually created a new Online Appe
The Petrashek GroupHome Prices Continue Their Ascent as Inventory Searches for Bottom…Recovery continued across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan housing market even with our first taste of fall weather. Sellers regained some enthusiasm as new listings rose 19.3 p
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Find out about why Foreclosure and Short Sales are at Lowest Level Since 2007 Twin Cities home buyers were unflustered by slightly higher interest rates in August as pending sales were up 10.9 percent to 5,244. Along with rising prices, increased sales ac
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The excitement of a Purchase Agreement for today’s South of the River Home Sellers quickly gives way to worry about the upcoming Buyer’s Inspection. Making the necessary repairs before listing your home for sale helps prevent surprises and un
The Petrashek GroupMinneapolis, Minnesota (August 12, 2013) –The Twin Cities Housing Market was once again buzzing with housing activity in July. Rising rents combined with still-favorable prices and mortgage rates have resulted in ongoing housing recovery. House hunters co
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Median Sales Price Exceeds $200,000 … Highest Since 2007 Minneapolis, Minnesota (July 11, 2013) –In light of a 14.2 percent increase in pending sales, Twin Cities home buyers seem unphased by recent mortgage rate increases. Even with rates around 4.
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My belief is…it’s finally happened. The importance of your Home’s Online Appeal has surpassed the traditional Curb Appeal! This doesn’t mean we should ignore your true curb appeal, your home still needs to look inviting from the st
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Great News for Pending Sales from Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors Today! May was an impressive month for the 13-county Twin Cities residential real estate market. With 5,872 pending sales, buyer demand continued its ascent, surging 18.5 percent t
The Petrashek GroupAll signs are pointing to a brighter housing market in Minnesota! If you have been waiting on the sidelines, hoping to jump into the market and buy a home before prices increase, Get Ready, Get Set, Go! “But, Sheryl, I can’t sell my current to
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The dreaded “Low Appraisal” is being heard in Real Estate offices all around the South of the River Suburbs. Those two small words have a powerful, negative impact on the sale of your home. Recently, I represented a client in a transaction w
The Petrashek GroupIn Minnesota we have a Statute allowing a 10 day right to cancel a purchase agreement for any property in an Association. What is a Association Resale Disclosure? When you are buying a townhome in Lakeville, Eagan, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Rosemount or
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Why is there such a significant difference in Townhome Association Dues between Complexes? Searching for townhomes in Lakeville and Farmington yesterday for a client, I sorted possible homes based on the Association Fees. Some complexes have high monthl
The Petrashek GroupHomes are springing up all over Lakeville Minnesota! New Construction areas are humming with activity and there is a smile on the face of every tradesman I encounter! If you are searching for a new home in 2016 in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Farmington or Ro
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Down payments, Earnest Money, Upfront Appraisal Fees, Homeowners Insurance, and the dreaded Closing Costs are all expenses faced by buyers when purchasing a home. How much money do you really need to buy a house? Deciding if you are ready to buy a house?
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Social Media is sweeping the world of marketing and business, including marketing homes for sale! If your home is currently for sale in Burnsville, Eagan or Savage, you may be wondering, “Should my Home have a Social Media Marketing Campaign?”
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A Private Home Inspection is routinely requested in today’s Real Estate Transaction. Over the past 10 years the duration, scope and details of these inspections has increased substantially. The most common question in a Home Seller’s mind is
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As a Real Estate Agent for Lakeville, I can tell you with certainty that Building a New Home has become very popular in our area! It’s amazing how quickly the New Construction neighborhoods have sprung to life in the past 6-9 months! There are neig
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Tired of the Same Old Boring Real Estate Flyer? Let’s Explore some New and Creative Ways to Sell your Home in Apple Valley, Lakeville, Rosemount or Eagan! We’ll Discover Why these Creative Ways to Sell your Home can Better Sell your Townhome
The Petrashek GroupWriting an offer after searching for the perfect South of the River home consumes the attention of every buyer. The thrill of the hunt kicks in as we scour the computer for a hot new listing. Our senses are on red alert as we drive...
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Need Reasons to sell your current home? The Real Estate Market is off to a roaring start! From my perspective and experience, I believe it’s going to be a banner year! I can’t speak for the entire country, but I’m confident in my opinio
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The costs of Buying a Home in Minnesota add up quickly and often cause Buyers to skimp on expenses when it comes to having an inspection. Passing up the chance to do a Private Inspection on the Home you are Buying can be a costly mistake. ...
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Selling your Lakeville or Farmington Home this upcoming Spring for top dollar means planning and prepping now. It’s time to schedule your Home-Prep Walk Thru, a quick preliminary meeting during which I’ll give you valuable advise to ensure yo
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Pre-approval Letters are nearly mandatory in today’s real estate market. They have been around since the mid 1990’s when I became a Realtor. A few years ago, an additional option for verifying the Buyers’ Loan Status became available an
The Petrashek GroupLights, Camera, Closing! The closing for your home is the event we have all been working towards. Here are 5 Things you should know to prepare for your Closing. Many homeowners are nervous about the process and unsure of what to expect. In Minnesota, we
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Twin Cities Real Estate Home Sales October 15, 2012 In between days. The spring and summer selling seasons are well behind us, and the holiday slowdown is well ahead of us (except in some department stores). As the days grow shorter, housing numbers may n
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Today I had an interesting conversation with a gentleman about Building a New Home in Lakeville. We talked about the best ways to select a builder in today’s Real Estate Market. There are several factors involved in selecting a Builder including,
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It’s in the Star Tribune, so now it’s official, the Real Estate Recovery is underway! The local news media is reflecting what us front-liners have been seeing for the past 4+ months. I’ve noticed over my 15 years of Selling Real Estate
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We had a fantastic time at the Minnesota State Fair on Saturday! Remax Results sponsored a booth for the day and we had a line up of people all day long. One of the owner’s of Remax Results, Marshall Saunders rented a basic spinning wheel and boy.
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Relocating to Minnesota? Consider living in Eagan or Lakeville, both were named in Money Magazine’s annual Best Places to Live for 2012. Top 100 places to live. Eagan earned the number 14 slot with Lakeville coming in at number 19, they are both wo
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Wow, the New Construction Housing Activity in Lakeville Minnesota is soaring. Lots have been selling fast this past Spring and Spec homes are selling even faster! This is such a great indicator for our local, Lakeville Real Estate Market. The increased s
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You have trudged through countless houses and finally, Eureka, you find the Perfect Home! Now you and your Realtor rush back to the office to write up an offer, only to hear the disappointing news, “there are multiple buyers offering on the home.
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The number of sales has increased in the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro areas over the past 12 months, according to the data published in The Thing by the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors. The Thing is a powerful graph with various data points whi
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A Huge Shout Out to the Owner’s of Remax Results! Congratulations, this Honor is Well Deserved! How nice to see Remax Results on the list of Top 100 Companies to work for in Minnesota. I’ve been with Remax Results for 10+ years and it has alw
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The report card for Twin Cities Market Activity this week showed higher grades than last year at this time for both buyers and sellers. Activity levels are higher on both sides, which is indicative of recovering confidence in the local market. Prices in c
The Petrashek GroupA HUGE SHOUT OUT TO THE OWNER’S OF REMAX RESULTS! CONGRATULATIONS, THIS HONOR IS WELL DESERVED! How nice to see Remax Results on the list of Top 100 Companies to work for in Minnesota. I’ve been with Remax Results for 15+ years and it has always been...
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Shadow inventory, the very mention of it brings fear to Realtors, Brokers, Mortgage Officers and Homesellers! The term Shadow Inventory is used to describe the large volume of homes, currently foreclosed and held by banks, just waiting to hit the market.
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It seems almost unbelievable that during my first year of real estate, the office and many established agents, received the old MLS books each month. Our office had two computers which were only used by a small number of agents willing to learn something
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Congratulations to my wonderful clients on a successful closing today! The sellers of this beautiful home in Lakeville bid farewell to the home they owned and diligently maintained for 17 years. They are moving back to an area of the midwest to be near t
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Real Estate Trend Report Recently I was asked to participate in an interview for the Spring 2012 Seasonal Real Estate Trend Report. The report is produced by Keri Henke and the staff at Remax North Central. I really enjoyed chatting with Keri about the
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Market sentiment can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Weekly Real Estate Market Activity Report Just as negative economic news sent a chill through the housing industry over the last several years, a newly confident consumer buying up excess inventory a
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Where has the Twin Cities real estate market been and where is it heading? I like this video, the message is positive, but cautious. The information about local market trends matchs up with what I am experiencing in South of River real estate trends,
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As a Real Estate agent specializing in Listing South of the River Homes for Sale, I hear these questions many times per month. “Should I do a carpet allowance to sell my Lakeville Home?” “Do I really need to put carpet in my Burnsville
The Petrashek GroupWhy are late closings happening so often in today’s real estate market? There are several factors contributing to the high percentage of ‘Late Closings’ in home sales. The Volume of Short Sales and Bank Owned Property being sold. Short S
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We successfully negotiated the sale of another listing this weekend and wouldn’t you know, it was multiple offers again! Do you want to sell your home in 2012? If you plan to ‘Move-Up’ into the purchase of a larger home, this might be th
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If you look for positive news about the housing market, you will find it easily. Many industry experts are speculating that 2012 will be turn-around year and prices are at or near the bottom. There is statistical data to support this including New Home
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The question makes my heart *Sigh* each time I hear it. “What should I do with my Burnsville Underwater Townhome?” “How can I sell my Apple Valley Townhome if it’s Underwater?” “I can’t sell my Lakeville Townhome
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Buyers are heartbroken to learn the home they studied on a website for more than an hour last night is already sold! The true Multiple Listing Service used by Realtors shows if a home has an offer on it, but this information is not forwarded to websites v
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Should I list my home now, or wait until Spring? I’m sure it’s the most commonly asked question between January 20th and March 1st! The answer is short and easy this year, List it now, List it now, List it now! I am confident this is the rig
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Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors, The Skinny Report! 2011 Annual Wrap-Up: Lower Prices but a Healthier Market! The annual wrap-up from the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors is a concise, information packed article. I thought it was well w
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A Contract for Deed is private financing between a Home Buyer and a Home Seller. Currently we are receiving more inquiries from potential buyers about the availability of CD financing. Some home sellers in Savage and Prior Lake are offering Contract for
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Just finished showing homes in Apple Valley, Rosemount and Farmington, the deals out there are so amazing. Beautiful 6 bedroom split with all new carpet and fresh paint, cute house on corner lot with brand new stove, nice flooring and fenced yard, awesom
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Today I met with a fantastic young couple preparing to buy their first home. Our discussion touched on the time needed to complete the purchase. Initially they were worried about starting the process too soon, concerned they might find a home they loved
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‘Are we there yet?’ Should I sell my home in 2012? How should you decide if 2012 is the right time to sell your home? Each person’s situation is unique and sometimes complicated, I am happy to chat with you personally and help you eva
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“What is your best memory of the Halloween Blizzard of 1991?” was a question posed by one of my friends on Twitter yesterday. Hard to believe it was 20 years ago. The East coast experienced a similar blizzard this year and the news footage r
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Great news for South of the River Homeowners, it may be possible to lower your interest rate, even if your mortgage is underwater! This is a huge change in policy and procedure. Previously under the HARP guidelines, the amount of mortgage you could refin
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Salute to all the fantastic teachers and staff at Apple Valley High School, check out their dance performance! Looks like they really surprised the students at the Pep Rally last week. It’s fun to watch this video, reminds me why Teachers are such
The Petrashek GroupPrice Changes are the prominent feature in the Market Watch of October 19th, 2011! The Market Watch graphs shown below offer a quick look at the various South of the River Suburbs. Price Changes top the list of activity for all cities except Farmington.
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When I put my ear to the ground, I swear I can hear hoof beats. The sound is distant and faint but steadily pounding and slowly advancing! It’s music to our ears, what is it? It‘s the future buyers, they are entering the market as a trickle..
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Everyone was affected by the recent real estate market and empty nesters are no exception. This week I have spoken to three empty nester couples trying to decide if they should downsize now. There are some common elements to the decision I would like to
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If you have experienced a ‘Low Appraisal’ you are well aware of the negative affect it presents for your transaction. Appraisal standards and practices have changed in response to the falling Housing Market. Follow this link to read the new
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Divorce requires decisions about everything in your life, including the house. What should we do with the house during a divorce? Years ago the solution was simple, you either sold the house and split the proceeds or one person refinanced the home into
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There are important things to consider when you buy a condo in today’s market. Buyers should carefully read and review the financial disclosures, operating expenses and financial reserves of any association. I always suggest to my clients, the reserves h
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Lakeville has a wonderful Area Arts Center and this year the Arts Center is celebrating it’s 10th Anniversary. There are many events planned for the 2011-2012 season including special concerts, receptions, and exhibits. The Lakeville Arts Center is
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When Selling your Savage MN home, there are no mandatory inspections, nor is there any obligation for the Seller to fix items in the home. It’s also true for Selling a home in Eagan, Lakeville, Rosemount, Burnsville, Farmington and Prior Lake too.
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The numbers are staggering, in the past few years the percentage of Listings which have Sold in the Twin Cities area is lingering around 52% . Unfortunately, listings which do not sell end up on the Expired or Cancelled list. Since 2007 we have listed
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Loan Modifications have helped many homeowners and banks are approving modification requests more often. Many Banks have streamlined their process. There are several new programs including the HAMP program for loan modification and HAFA, a program to as
The Petrashek GroupThe prices are falling, the prices are falling! Buyers in all of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Rosemount, Lakeville and Farmington are eagerly shopping for the ‘Best Deal’, and rightfully so. Listening to clients discuss their purchase whil
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Its a battlefield out there and Homeowners with Equity in their South of the River Home must take steps to defend it. We are in a marketplace of extremes and Traditional Home Sellers are squeezed in the middle, competing with foreclosures and short sale
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Short Sales are anything but short, actually they take a long time. A short sale means the Seller will be ‘short’ of enough money to pay off their full mortgage balance. All mortgage balances need to be paid in full to pass on a clear title.
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The Minneapolis Association of Realtors publishes a Weekly Report offering details of the local marketplace. Information in the report is for the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul metropolitan real estate market. Data is relevant for South of the River ho
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Cedar Avenue under Seige… Work has begun on the Bus Rapid Transit Line on Cedar Avenue. Driving on Cedar Avenue will be difficult for nearly 2 years during the construction of new lanes for buses and emergency vehicles. The Minnesota Valley Transi
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The Minneapolis Association of Realtors publishes a Weekly Report offering details of the local marketplace. Information in the report is for the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul metropolitan real estate market. Data is relevant for South of the River ho
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How much will Cedar Avenue construction affect my property value? The upcoming construction for a bus rapid transit lane on Cedar Avenue will result in a widened roadway. The question posed by homeowners is, how will this affect my home’s value? Wh
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Recently a client called to ask about trading homes. He and his darling young family are in an Apple Valley Townhome and someone they know is in a large Single Family Home South of Lakeville. They would like to trade, but each property has a...
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Absorption rate is a measure of how many ‘months worth of homes’ are currently on the market. This is calculated by establishing how many purchases were made in the past 6 months within a given set of parameters. Next, we find how many homes a
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Rosemount recently acquired 27+ Acres from the Umore Park land to develop city parks and recreation facilities. Rosemount city officials have developed and passed the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. Rosemount is on the Eastern edge of the area known
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The availability of HUD Homes South of the River is increasing steadily. A HUD Home is a specific type of foreclosure. The loan on the home was an FHA , a type of loan ensured by the Federal Government. When these homes fall into foreclosure,...
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The new Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley is set to open on March 1st, 2011. The 134 unit apartment building is open to residents who are at least 62 years wise! The units feature 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for rent, a theater, café, art...
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City of Apple Valley Tree and Shrub Sale: Orders begin March 14, 2011, Sale will be April 30,2011. They are also offering two new tree species this year – Honey Locust and Hackberry. Take advantage of this fantastic Apple Valley program, it’
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One of my clients has been quite successful buying, renovating and reselling homes. Would you like to flip this Apple Valley house? My clients have completed 3 in the past 8 months. Their success and profitability buying and selling homes South of the Ri
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New Townhomes were built all through Apple Valley, Rosemount, Lakeville and Farmington during the booming market. Many of those complexes are classified as Condominiums instead of Townhouses. There can be some challenges when buying a Condominium or
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Financing Condos in today’s real estate market is more difficult and sometimes more expensive than buying a Townhouse. The reasons are related to financing and insurance. Click here for a definition of the difference between Condos and Townhomes. 1
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