MN Home Brothers

Homeownership: The Heart of the American Dream

Everyone’s vision for the future is personal and unique. But for many, common goals include success, freedom, and prosperity — values closely tied to having your own home and the iconic feeling of achieving the American Dream.

So, why is buying a home important to so many today? One reason is the financial and physical security it provides. Many people see homeownership as a way to reduce stress because owning a home with a fixed-rate mortgage stabilizes what is likely their largest monthly expense.
Another factor is the potential for building wealth. That’s because, over time, homeowners gain equity as they pay down their mortgage and as home prices appreciate, leading to longer-term financial stability.
But what about the responsibilities that come with owning and maintaining a home? According to a survey by Entrata, only 23% of renters feel homeownership is too much...

Homeownership: The Heart of the American Dream Everyone’s vision for the future is personal and unique.

Should you buy now or wait? Consider this.
If you bought a $400,000 home at the start of this year, you’d be set up to gain roughly $83,000 in equity over the next 5 years based on expert forecasts.
So, if you’re ready and able to buy today, remember to factor in the equity that’s at stake as you make your decision.
This is why time in the market is better than timing the market.

Thinking about selling your house without an agent?

You should know there are some major downsides.

You’d miss out on marketing tools, expert pricing, top-notch negotiation skills, and the know-how to handle all the fine print.

Why take on all that stress alone? Let’s chat and make sure you have the support you need.

Why a Vacation Home Is the Ultimate Summer Upgrade

Summer is officially here and that means it’s the perfect time to start planning where you want to vacation and unwind this season. If you’re excited about getting away and having some fun in the sun, it might make sense to consider if owning your own vacation home is right for you.

An Ameriprise Financial survey sheds light on why people buy a second, or vacation, home (see below):

• Vacation destination or a place to get away from the stresses of everyday life (81%)

• Better weather (49%)

• Rental income (41%)

• Primary residence in the future (33%)

• Having a venue for gatherings with family and friends (25%)
Ways To Buy Your Vacation Home

And you don’t have to be wealthy to buy a vacation home. Bankrate shares two tips for how to make this dream more achievable for anyone who’s interested:

• Buy with loved ones or friends: If you’re okay with sharing the...

Why a Vacation Home Is the Ultimate Summer Upgrade Summer is officially here and that means it’s the perfect time to start planning where you want to vacation and unwind this season.

Do Elections Impact the Housing Market?

The 2024 Presidential election is just months away. As someone who’s thinking about potentially buying or selling a home, you’re probably curious about what effect, if any, elections have on the housing market.

Home Sales

During the month of November, in years when the Presidential election takes place, there’s typically a slight slowdown in home sales. As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, explains: “Usually, home sales are unchanged compared to a non-election year with the exception being November. In an election year, November is slower than normal.”

Home Prices

What about home prices? Do they drop during election years? Not typically. As residential appraiser and housing analyst Ryan Lundquist puts it: “An election year doesn’t alter the price trend that is already happening in the market.”

Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates are important because they affect how much your...

Do Elections Impact the Housing Market? The 2024 Presidential election is just months away.

Home Prices Aren’t Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are

If you’ve seen the news lately about home sellers slashing prices, it’s a great example of how headlines do more to terrify than clarify. Here’s what’s really happening with prices.

The key is knowing the difference between the asking price and the sold price.

Understanding Asking Price vs. Sold Price

In essence, the asking price, also known as a listing price, is the amount a seller hopes to get for their home when they list it. In reality, sellers can’t just put any price tag on their house and expect it to sell for top dollar.

Here’s the most important thing to note: Actual sold prices are still rising, and they’re expected to continue to do so at least over the next 5 years.

What Does This Mean for Home Prices?

So, while there's been an increase in price reductions recently, this doesn't mean overall home values are declining.

Why This...

Home Prices Aren’t Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are If you’ve seen the news lately about home sellers slashing prices, it’s a great example of how headlines do more to terrify than clarify.

Thinking of selling but feeling stuck with today’s mortgage rates?

Here’s something to consider: your home equity could be the solution.

So, how can equity help? Depending on how much you have you could:

- Buy your next home in cash.
- Make a larger down payment and finance less.

If you’re curious about finding out about your equity, let’s connect for a free equity assessment.

Climate risks are having an impact on where people buy homes.
And if it’s something that’s on your mind, you want to work with an agent with expertise on the local area, what’s impacting homes near you, and what features you may want your home to have to help safeguard it from the elements.
Want to buy? Together, we’ll find you a home you love that’s built to last.

Trying to figure out how much house you can afford? Here’s something to remember.

While it can be tempting to stretch your finances a bit further than you’re really comfortable with to try to make sure you get the house, you want to avoid overextending your budget.

Instead, focus on what you can afford monthly and make sure the numbers will really work for you.

Veterans, did you know VA home loans can help you buy a home with no down payment, no PMI, and limited closing costs?

Over 24 million service members have become homeowners thanks to this loan option. Learn more and make your American Dream come true.

Worried About Home Maintenance Costs? Consider This

If one of the main reasons you’re hesitant to buy a home is because you’re worried about the upkeep, here’s some information you may find interesting on both new home construction and existing homes (a home that’s been lived in by a previous owner).

Newly Built Homes Need Less Upfront Maintenance

If you can afford it, you may find a newly built home could help ease your worries about maintenance costs. Think about it, if everything in the house is brand new, it won’t have the wear and tear you may see in an existing home – and that means it’s less likely to need repairs. Plus, many builders also have warranties on their homes that would cover some of the more major expenses that could pop up.

Existing Homes Can Still Have Great Perks

But it’s worth mentioning, that it’s not just newly built homes that can have warranties. It’s an option for existing homes too.

Your...

Worried About Home Maintenance Costs? Consider This If one of the main reasons you’re hesitant to buy a home is because you’re worried about the upkeep, here’s some information you may find interesting on both new home construction and existing homes.

The Number of Homes for Sale Is Increasing

There’s no denying the last couple of years have been tough for anyone trying to buy a home because there haven’t been enough houses to go around. But things are starting to look up.

There are more homes up for grabs this year.

As Realtor.com explains: “There were 30.4% more homes actively for sale on a typical day in April compared with the same time in 2023, marking the sixth consecutive month of annual inventory growth.”

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’ve been looking to buy but put your plans on hold because you just couldn’t find what you were searching for, you might see more options now than you did over the past few years – but don't expect a huge selection.

To check out your growing options, it's a good idea to work with a local real estate agent you trust. Real estate is all about location. And an agent can help you get the scoop on the homes available in the...

The Number of Homes for Sale Is Increasing There’s no denying the last couple of years have been tough for anyone trying to buy a home because there haven’t been enough houses to go around.

Thinking of selling? Make sure you have an agent with the right skills.

You want someone who makes it easy to understand what’s happening, uses data to inform their strategies, and offers customized advice throughout the process.

Your home journey deserves expertise and understanding. Let's see if we’re the perfect match.

Home Prices Are Climbing in These Top Cities

Thinking about buying a home or selling your current one to find a better fit? If so, you might be wondering what's going on with home prices these days. Here's the scoop.

Home prices were rising for most of 2023. But over the course of December and January, they were virtually flat – which is pretty normal for that time of year.

But here's what you need to know now. As of February, when the spring market kicked off, prices were on the rise again.

Home Prices Are Going Up in Most of America's Top Cities

After seeing a jump in home prices nationally in February, you might be wondering if they’re going up in your area, too. While it depends on where you live, prices are rising in 18 of the top 20 cities Case-Shiller reports on in the monthly price index.

Most experts also think home prices will keep rising and end the year on a high note. Forbes explains why: “Even as mortgage...

Home Prices Are Climbing in These Top Cities Thinking about buying a home or selling your current one to find a better fit?

Considering making a move? According to Realtor.com, profit potential and family priorities are the top motivators for homeowners right now.
Let’s dive into the reasons driving your decision. With home values and inventory on the rise, it might just be the right time to make that change.

Now’s a Great Time To Sell Your House

Thinking about selling your house? If you are, you might be weighing factors like today’s mortgage rates and your own changing needs to figure out your next move.

Here’s something else to consider. According to the latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) from Fannie Mae, the percent of respondents who say it’s a good time to sell is on the rise.

Why Are Sellers Feeling so Optimistic?

One reason why is because right now is traditionally the best time of year to sell a house.
These are the seasons when most people move. That means buyer demand grows. And because there still aren’t enough homes for sale to meet that demand, sellers see some serious perks. According to Rocket Mortgage: “Homes that are listed at the end of spring and the beginning of summer typically sell faster at a higher sales price.”

What Does This Mean for You?

More sellers are coming to realize...

Now’s a Great Time To Sell Your House Thinking about selling your house?

Is a Multi-Generational Home Right for You?

Ever thought about living in the same house with your grandparents, parents, or other loved ones? You're not alone. A lot of people are choosing to buy multi-generational homes where everyone can live together. Let's check out why they think it’s a good idea to see if it might be a good fit for you, too.

Why People Are Choosing Multi-Generational Living

Sharing costs like the mortgage and utilities can make owning a home more affordable. This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers who might find it challenging to buy a place on their own in today's market.

As Axios explains: “Financial concerns and caregiving needs are two of the major reasons people live with their parents (and parents’ parents).”

How an Agent Is Key in Finding the Right Home for You

Looking for the perfect multi-generational home is a bit trickier than finding a regular house. You've got more people...

Is a Multi-Generational Home Right for You? Ever thought about living in the same house with your grandparents, parents, or other loved ones?

Did you know?

Around 1 in 4 people still think homes prices are going to fall according to Fannie Mae.

A lot of that is because of clickbait headlines. But the actual data shows prices are rising nationally, not falling.

Have questions about what you’re reading? I'm here to help clear up any confusion.

Is It Getting More Affordable To Buy a Home?

Over the past year or so, a lot of people have been talking about how tough it is to buy a home. And while there’s no arguing affordability is still tight, there are signs it’s starting to get a bit better and may improve even more throughout the year.

1. Mortgage Rates

Despite the recent volatility, rates are still lower than they were last fall when they reached nearly 8%. On top of that, most experts still think they’ll come down some over the course of the year.

Any drop in rates can make a difference for you. When rates go down, you can afford the home you really want more easily because your monthly payment would be lower.

2. Home Prices

The second big factor to think about is home prices. Most experts project they'll keep going up this year, but at a more normal pace. That’s because there are more homes on the market this year, but still not enough for everyone...

Is It Getting More Affordable To Buy a Home? Over the past year or so, a lot of people have been talking about how tough it is to buy a home.

Should I Move with Today’s Mortgage Rates?

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you?

In today’s market, data shows more homeowners are getting used to where rates are and thinking it may be time to move.

What Would Motivate You To Move?

Now that you know why other people would move, take a minute to think about what would make a move worth it for you. Is it time to take a chance and go for your dream job, even though it’s not local? Are you looking for a neighborhood that has more to offer and a close-knit sense of community? Maybe you just need more space, you’re looking for your next great adventure, or you want a house that opens up rental opportunities to pad your income.

And here’s something else to...

Should I Move with Today’s Mortgage Rates? When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause.

An exciting trend is happening in housing.

New data shows the size of new homes is trending down.

That’s good news if you’ve been looking for a house that checks all your boxes and still fits your budget.

If you want to see what builders are doing in our area, let’s connect. You’ll want an agent to show you the latest and be your guide as you decide what’s right for you.

The Best Week To List Your House Is Almost Here

Are you thinking about making a move? If so, now may be the perfect time to start the process. That’s because experts say the best week to list your house is just around the corner.

A recent Realtor.com study looked at housing market trends over the past several years (with the exception of 2020, since it was an unusual year), and found the best week to put your house on the market this year is April 14-20.

Here’s why this matters for you. While the spring market is a great time to sell no matter the week, this may be the peak sweet spot. And if you’ve been putting your plans on the back burner and waiting for the right time to act, this could be the nudge you need to make your move happen.

But, if you want to get in on the action, you’ll need to move quickly and lean on the pros. Your local real estate agent is the perfect go-to when it comes to figuring out a...

The Best Week To List Your House Is Almost Here Are you thinking about making a move?

First and foremost, an agent is here to help make sure your homebuying process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Because let’s face it. In the homebuying process, there’s a ton that happens. An agent will handle a lot of that for you behind the scenes.

From setting up showings to helping you navigate multiple offer scenarios, inspections, and more, having a pro by your side can make all the difference.

Outdoor Projects Can Boost Curb Appeal When You Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]

In real estate, a good first impression is key. If the outside of a house looks welcoming, more people will want to come in and see it. Your agent helps you by giving advice on what you may want to prioritize, finding easy fixes that make a big difference, knowing what buyers in your area like, and showing off your updates in your listing. DM me so you have expert advice on what'll have the biggest impact in our area.

Outdoor Projects Can Boost Curb Appeal When You Sell [INFOGRAPHIC] In real estate, a good first impression is key. If the outside of a house looks welcoming, more people will want to come in and see it.

Spring has sprung, meaning it’s the ideal time to sell your house.

In fact, the best week to list your house is right around the corner.

I can give you some great advice on how to prep. DM me today so we can start getting your house ready for listing.

What Are Experts Saying About the Spring Housing Market?

Here’s what the professionals are saying about what’s in store for this season.

Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist, First American: “. . . it seems our general expectation for the spring is that we will see a pickup in inventory. In fact, that already seems to be happening. But it won’t necessarily be enough to satiate demand.”

Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist, Bright MLS: “There is still strong demand, as the large millennial population remains in the prime first-time homebuying range.”

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist, Realtor.com: “Where we are right now is the best of both worlds. Price increases are slowing, which is good for buyers, and prices are still relatively high, which is good for sellers.”

Skylar Olsen, Chief Economist, Zillow: “There are slightly more homes for sale than this time last year, and there is still plenty of competition for...

What Are Experts Saying About the Spring Housing Market? If you’re planning to move soon, you might be wondering if there'll be more homes to choose from, where prices and mortgage rates are headed, and how to navigate today’s market.