HomeAboutPrivacy PolicyAdditional DisclosuresHomesMAPSEARCH FOR MN HOMES NOWMinnesota Commercial PropertyHow Was It Measured?In an attempt to compare homes, one of the common denominators has been price per square foot.  It seems like a fairly, straight forward method but there are differences in the way homes are measured.The first assumption that has to be made is that the comparable homes are similar in size, location, condition and amenities.  Obviously, a variance in any of these things affects the price per square... [Read more]The Reason They’re Called BenefitsThe Veterans Administration guarantees home loans for eligible veterans.  It is considered an attractive loan because the veteran can purchase the home with no down payment up to specific loan limits and no mortgage insurance. This makes the monthly payment considerably lower.Let’s assume a buyer wants to purchase a $200,000 home and can get a 4.5% interest mortgage for 30 years. A FHA loan would... [Read more]Indecision CostsMore money has been lost to indecision than was ever lost to making the wrong decision.  The economy and the housing market have caused some people to take a “wait and see” position that could cost them in lost opportunities as well as almost certain higher costs in the future.To illustrate what the opportunity cost might be, let’s compare what the value of the down payment two years from now... [Read more]Every Renter Should KnowThe first home purchase can be the culmination of years of planning and consideration. Buyers typically look for 12 weeks and use a variety information sources for research before purchasing. However, many renters are not near as thorough in their study.Like any other commitment a person makes, careful consideration and understanding is required. There are things that every renter should know before... [Read more]Fifteen Will Get You ThreeFreddie Mac chief economist, Frank Nothaft, says that affordability, stability and flexibility are the three reasons homebuyers overwhelmingly choose a 30 year term.  However, for those who can afford a higher payment, there are three additional reasons to choose a 15 year term: save interest, build equity and retire the debt sooner.First-time buyers have a higher tendency to use a minimum down payment... [Read more]Make Good Offers BetterIt’s disappointing, frustrating and sometimes, discouraging when you lose a home you want to buy. One of the hardest lessons for today’s buyers is that writing an offer doesn’t mean that you’ll get the home or even a counter-offer.  The low inventory affecting many of the housing markets requires a different strategy to give you the best chance to get the home you want.1. Make your best offer... [Read more]An Unexpected ExpenseIn a study released by TD Bank, 65% of buyers with mortgages that required mortgage insurance said the higher monthly payment was more than they originally expected.Private mortgage insurance is required on loans that exceed 80% of the hom