Wednesday, July 31, 2013

An Unwelcoming Entry

Your home's front entry welcomes guests to your house.  It can seem like you can't go wrong.  Place a door on the front of your home, and people will come.  But it's not really that simple.  Your front home leaves a lasting impression on those who come to your house.  It can make them feel welcome or not so much.  Just what is an unwelcoming entry?  Here are a few ideas of what NOT to do to your home.

Where is it?

A home without an obvious front entry makes visitors apprehensive and wondering just how to approach the home.  Here are some questions to ask yourself.  Is my front entry hidden?  Is my front entry even on the front of the house?  Does my front entry seem like a side door or a family-only door (like a sliding door)?

 



Through the Jungle

Maybe you can find the front door, but no one would want to approach it.  If you feel like you need to climb through a jungle or are afraid to knock because the door might fall off, it's time to revamp your entry.



Entering the Cave

Guests will feel uncomfortable having to enter into a darkly lit or imposing space to reach your front door.  Be sure your guests don't feel like they are entering a dungeon when they come to your house.



No Shelter From The Storm

A lack of shelter at the front entry can leave your guests out in the cold, literally.  A flat face on your front entry with no overhanging roof is a poor way to treat your guests.  For those times when it is windy, rainy or even blaringly sunny, give your guests a little shelter at the front door.



Isn't It Obvious?

Lastly, while you may think it's funny, it can make others feel unwelcome when you say so through floor mats or signs at the door.  Keep these bits of dark humor for your personal entry and leave your front door a welcoming area for guests.



Source:  Article by Michelle Schwake, Stafford Family Realtors.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Weekly Market Update: July 29, 2013

Nationwide, local markets have become stable enough to withstand mortgage rate increases. Improving job and other economic sectors have fortified real, organic housing growth. Bargain-basement deals have given way to multiple offers, stiff bidding wars and lickety-split days on market. Inventory may still be thin, but traditional home sellers are stepping up to the plate with new listings. It won't be long now until the housing recovery is once again referred to as just housing.

In the Twin Cities region, for the week ending July 20:

• New Listings increased 25.1% to 1,731
• Pending Sales increased 6.2% to 1,171
• Inventory decreased 14.3% to 15,623

For the month of June:

• Median Sales Price increased 17.5% to $210,000
• Days on Market decreased 34.5% to 74
• Percent of Original List Price Received increased 2.5% to 97.5%
• Months Supply of Inventory decreased 25.0% to 3.6

Source:  Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors

Monday, July 29, 2013

Piggyback Mortgages



In 2005, many people qualified for a piggyback loan.  They would take a traditional 80% mortgage on a new house, and also a 20% mortgage in the form of a higher-rate home equity line of credit to cover the “down payment.”  This option was a way of avoiding mortgage insurance for those who didn’t have enough money saved to cover a down payment.

This 80/20 type of piggyback mortgage was quite popular before the housing crash, as it allowed borrowers to buy a house with no money down. Of course, we all know what came of it: borrowers who took on more house than they could afford. When these borrowers defaulted, our economy took a major hit.

You might think that lenders would’ve banned piggyback mortgages forever because of the housing crisis, but apparently these types of mortgages are making something of a comeback. While you can no longer get the kind of 80/20 mortgage described above, there are still some piggyback options available to homebuyers in 2013.

Here’s what you need to know about the return of the piggyback mortgage:



A Lower Combined Loan-to-Value

Banks no longer want borrowers to show up with no down payment when buying a house, which is why the 80/20 piggyback mortgage has gone the way of the dodo. But if you have some portion of a down payment, you may be able to find a bank willing to finance a piggyback mortgage with a combined loan-to-value of 85% or 90%.

Basically, this means that you’ll need to come up with a down payment of 10% to 15%, and you can get 85% to 90% financed through the first and second mortgage. This is actually beneficial for both you and the bank; the financer takes on less risk, while you start off home ownership with more equity than with a  80/20 piggyback.



Tighter Borrower Requirements

One of the reasons why piggyback loans had such disastrous results during the housing bubble was that credit was so easily offered and accepted. Banks have (theoretically) learned their lesson, and have tightened up the borrower requirements for piggyback mortgages (not to mention traditional mortgages).

According to Bankrate.com, “For a borrower to get a piggyback loan today, lenders typically require a FICO score of at least 700. As well, they typically look for a total debt-to-income ratio of no more than 43 percent and expect borrowers to have some cash reserves.”

It’s important to note, however, that these typical rules might not be as stringent as the ones you encounter at your bank. Banks don’t want to get burned again, and so even though the piggyback mortgage may be making something of a comeback, you may find that the stringent requirements make it basically impossible to take advantage of one.



The Bottom Line

While piggyback mortgages are becoming more common — they accounted for 3.8% of loans originated in 2012, as compared to 1.7% of loans in 2010 – they are still a pretty rare banking product.

Borrowers with excellent credit, a low debt-to-income ratio, and not quite enough money saved for a down payment might be able to make good use of this type of loan — but it is ultimately smarter to simply save a little longer until you do have the down payment necessary for your dream home.


Source:  by Emily Guy Birken for  Moneyning.com

New listing: 26500 Arbor Creek Lane - Shorewood

26500 Arbor Creek Ln., Shorewood, MN 55331


New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/7HCMAN

New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/7HCMAN/138/459



 
Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 5,314

Asking Price: $899,000

MLS #: 4395429

Friday, July 26, 2013

Open Houses: July 28, 2013

4000 Landings Drive - Minnetrista
$319,900
5 bedroom/4 bath
SqFt:  2,129
OPEN:  2:30 - 4:00



Quality built by Mattamy, this home features an open floor plan and hardwood floors throughout. Enjoy the warm, sun-filled rooms perfectly designed with family and entertaining in mind.


Click HERE for more information on Landings Drive.


9342 Rhoy Avenue - Chaska
$419,000
3 bedroom/2 bath
SqFt:  1,636
OPEN:  2:00 to 4:00



Sited nearly 60 feet of lakeshore on picturesque Lake Bavaria, this well-maintained home features natural woodwork throughout with lake views from almost every room. Nestled between mature trees and a beautiful, lush gardens, this picture perfect lot provides resort-style living close to the amenities & conveniences of Victoria and Chaska.


Click HERE for more information on Rhoy Avenue.


4566 Covey Lane - St. Bonifacius
$330,000
3 bedroom/2 bath
SqFt:  1,986
OPEN:  12:00 - 3:00



Well maintained home with premium pond views.  Custom built by Mattamy, this home features an open floor plan and gleaming hardwood floors throughout. Enjoy the warm, sun-filled rooms perfectly designed with family and entertaining in mind.

Click HERE for more information on Covey Lane.


New listing: 9108 Stephens Pointe - Eden Prairie

9108 Stephens Pointe, Eden Prairie, MN 55347



New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/8NVQ5G

New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/8NVQ5G/138/442







Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 7,502

Asking Price: $2,099,000

MLS #: 4392321

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Weekend Happenings: Chaska River City Days

Chaska River City Days
Chaska City Square Park
300 Chestnut St
Chaska, MN 55318
Fri-Sat, July 26-28, 2013
Cost:  Free



A fun filled weekend showcasing a variety of local entertainment, food and beverage booths, art & craft fair, golf, disc golf, grass and sand volleyball tournaments, Triathlon and 5 K Fun Run, Breakfast in the Park, Live bands and concerts, Business expo, Medallion Hunt, contests and much more.




Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Best of the Twin Cities 2013 - Home Decor Shops

According to Midwest Home magazine, the Twin Cities is bursting with hip and trendy shops selling all the latest in home decor.  Here are the results of the magazine's favorite shops for 2013.

Best of the Twin Cities 2013

Arhaus


Last fall, the Ohio-based home-furnishings chain joined Gabberts Design Studio & Fine Furniture, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Restoration Hardware in the Galleria’s furniture row, adding a (mostly) mid-price option to the mix. With the store’s updated traditional designs and comfortable sensibility, we’re making Arhaus our own. • Galleria, Edina, 952-920-0463, arhaus.com


Mingle

This new product and design resource urges consumers to do what its name says: mingle. Wander through the show room displays of every room in the house—from custom kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms, bedrooms, and entertainment rooms. The cabinets, wall coverings, flooring, furniture, and accessories you see in the 100-plus vignettes are available right there. And Mingle partner Studio M stands ready to provide interior-design assistance should you desire it. Owner Peter Santrach’s own remodeling project—and experience running all over town with a multitude of samples—inspired him to open a show room that would be a one-stop shop. Mission accomplished. • 12955 Hwy. 55, Plymouth, 763-717-8500, mingleteam.com


Ciel Loft & Home


ciel loft & home
Photo by Sung Anderson













Photo by Sung AndersonAndy Higgins demonstrates both a preference for authentic style and a talent for merchandising in his enticing new storefront, Ciel Loft & Home, located cheek-to-cheek with the Guild: A Design Collective in St. Louis Park. Higgins and Chad Newman, his partner “on the ground” in China, buy and import Chinese farmhouse antiques and case goods fashioned from repurposed wood. Other items hail from Egypt, India, and Turkey—as well as domestically, including colorful metal ceiling tiles from Harlem. Natural materials, clean lines, and organic colors—as well as affordable prices—make this store a must-visit. • 4416 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park, 952-922-2747, cielloftandhome.com


The Foundry Home Goods


The stock-in-trade here: “Simple, useful, and beautiful objects for the home”—none of which does the shop justice. Owner Anna Hillegass opened this serene corner shop in an old brick North Loop factory and stocked it with handmade wares designed to last a lifetime. The hand-carved-in-Minnesota woodenware, Mexican glasses, Italian linens, Portuguese terra cotta, Japanese brass, and Swedish cleaning brushes make perfect gifts—or a special indulgence for you. • 125 N. First St., Minneapolis, 612-333-8484, thefoundryhomegoods.com


Zinnia Folk Arts

If you love the vibrant colors and powerful artistry of Mexico, this will be your happy place. Anne Damon turned her attraction to all things Mexican into a business several years ago, selling artisan-made wares at the Guild until she opened her shop at 50th and Bryant last spring. She travels to Mexican villages to find pottery, textiles, masks, religious iconography, jewelry, and what must be the metro’s largest collection of Day of the Dead figures. Damon’s familiarity with Mexican culture, the artists, and the symbols they employ make a stop at Zinnia much like a gallery tour with a knowledgeable docent. • 826 W. 50th St., Minneapolis, 612-824-4342, zinniafolkarts.com


Forage Modern Workshop


Forage Modern Workshop
Photo by Alex Steinberg/Sidecar

















Photo by Alex Steinberg/SidecarThis East Lake Street storefront is the brainchild of Michael Smith and James Brown, co-owners of the contracting firm Brownsmith Restoration, who specialize in historic renovations. The Forage Modern retail shop cultivates a distinctive “Midwest modern” aesthetic that is warm and personal—each piece features a tag telling its maker’s story. The new and vintage offerings include nearly 100 different designers, and about 60 percent of the work is made in the Midwest. This is the place to get your hands on Rapson Rapid Rockers, Concrete Pig coffee tables, Oh Dier salt cellars, and more. Shop till you’re ready to drop—then refuel with a meatloaf sandwich at Parka, the comfort-food café that shares space with the store. • 4023 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, 612-886-3603, foragemodernworkshop.com


Andrew Martin

A number of adjectives come to mind on a visit to Andrew Martin: glamorous, theatrical, sophisticated, eccentric, wonderful, and fun. And perhaps one question: What is this UK brand known for its global influences and fusion style doing in a strip mall in Edina? (It’s the only freestanding Andrew Martin store in the United States, in fact.) The Midwest location isn’t happenstance—it’s handily located between the coasts, and the CEO of the international firm, Tim McGeehan, is a native Minnesotan. Amidst towering walls covered with wallpaper that mimes floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, fantastical 6-foot-tall horses made in Thailand of discarded motorcycle parts, sofas and chairs upholstered in unexpected fabric mixtures, and artifacts from around the world, the store sells delightful furnishings, fabrics, wallpaper, and more. And one more perk: the assistance of in-store designers Lisa Klick and David Sunderland to help put together personalized looks. • 7101 France Ave. S., Edina, 612-208-0557, andrewmartin.co.uk

To see the rest of the results of Midwest Home's Best of 2013, click HERE.
Source:  Midwest Home magazine

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Weekly Market Update: July 22, 2013

Housing isn't just housing. That may have a strange ring to it. But housing includes building, inspecting, remodeling, lending, refinancing, furnishing and a host of other functions tied to the physical space of home. Each of these functions is tied to job growth and interest rates, and each has seen some spectacular highs and lows over the past eight years. There has been a recent sense of stability brewing in all of housing. Here's to making the most of it.

In the Twin Cities region, for the week ending July 13:

• New Listings increased 25.1% to 1,921
• Pending Sales increased 26.5% to 1,352
• Inventory decreased 15.6% to 15,390

For the month of June:

• Median Sales Price increased 17.5% to $210,000
• Days on Market decreased 34.5% to 74
• Percent of Original List Price Received increased 2.5% to 97.5%
• Months Supply of Inventory decreased 25.0% to 3.6

Source:  Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors

Monday, July 22, 2013

New listing: 9342 Rhoy Avenue - Chaska

9342 Rhoy Avenue, Chaska, MN 55318



New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/SS3FX9

New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/SS3FX9/138/459




Description: Cottage Style House with 60 Feet of Shoreline on Lake Bavaria






Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1636

Asking Price: $419,000

MLS #: 4392222

10 Most Desireable Do-It-Yourself Outdoor Projects

The warmer weather has home owners looking to spruce up their home’s outdoor spaces. So when it comes to do-it-yourself outdoor projects, which projects are most home owners tackling?


A survey of more than 1,200 home owners by the Home Project Council identified the following DIY outdoor projects as most desirable:

1. Plant a garden

2. Use decorative pebbles, stones or rocks for landscaping

3. Build a deck

4. Create a fire pit or barbecue pit

5. Build a patio or walkway using concrete pavers or bricks

6. Install or build a shed or storage building

7. Stain or paint siding or windows

8. Build a privacy fence

9. Stain or paint exterior concrete surfaces (patio, pool deck, driveway, sidewalk, etc.)

10. Repair or seal concrete cracks in patios, steps, or driveways


Home owners identified the most difficult or intimidating DIY outdoor projects as being building an outdoor kitchen and pouring concrete slabs for patios, steps, or sidewalks, or building a deck, according to the survey.


Sunday, July 21, 2013

New listing: 9108 Stephens Pointe - Eden Prairie

9108 Stephens Pointe, Eden Prairie, MN 55347



New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/8NVQ5G


New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/8NVQ5G/138/442




Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 7502

Asking Price: $209,9000

MLS #: 4392321

Saturday, July 20, 2013

New listing: 4566 Covey Lane - Minnetrista

4566 Covey Ln.,  Minnetrista, MN 55375


New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/J6U857

New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/J6U857/138/442




Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1986

Asking Price: $333,000

MLS #: 4392215

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Weekly Market Update: July 15, 2013


Wall Streeters in resplendent suits talk of vintage loans, quantitative easing and Fair Housing Finance Agency policy. Economic subtext might work at a mo’ money mixer, but the on-the-go real estate consumer can get by on Econ 101. Supply is down, demand is up and price tides are rise, rise, rising. Our barge carries mostly good news for agents and sellers, while buyers still have plenty of room to grow into an affordable new home.

In the Twin Cities region, for the week ending July 6:

• New Listings increased 14.3% to 1,105 
• Pending Sales increased 5.7% to 912
 • Inventory decreased 16.4% to 15,249

For the month of June:

• Median Sales Price increased 17.5% to $210,000
• Days on Market decreased 34.5% to 74
• Percent of Original List Price Received increased 2.5% to 97.5%
 
• Months Supply of Inventory decreased 27.1% to 3.5 

Source:  Minneapolis Area Association Of Realtors

Price Reduction: 6357 Cliffwood Circle - Victoria

6357 Cliffwood Circle, Victoria, MN 55331


New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AKMSS2

Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 3.00

Sqft: 4867

Asking Price: $799000

MLS #: 4369179

Thursday, July 11, 2013

New Listing: Canyon Road - Chaska

2976 Canyon Rd., Chaska, MN 55318


 
New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/67UEUN

Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 3.00

Sqft: 4088

Asking Price: $479900

MLS #: 4371204

New listing: 4000 Landings Dr. - Minnetrista

4000 Landings Dr., Minnetrista, MN 55375


New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/8H3D2D


Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 3049

Asking Price: $330750

MLS #: 4386025

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

July 2013 Home Trends: Organization!

Apparently, summertime is the time for home organization.  Pinterest is full of organization ideas for every nook and cranny of the home.  Take a look at some of these ideas and see what you can incorporate into your home.


Add shelfs to inside cabinet for cleaning supplies - Label*** add papertowel holder to inside door also***


52 Totally Feasible Ways To Organize Your Entire Home!


How To: Organize Your Stuff: Shelve your clutches, hang the rest.

this should be standard in homes!


Perfect way to display art books or a kid's picture books! Design & photo © ELOISE SOUTHARD (Interior Designer. New York, New York).  ... Do the right thing. Give credit where due. Pin from the Primary Source. Don't harm another's ability to make a living.




Turn a small closet into a built in vanity

Stores quite a bit and takes very little space.
Garage organizer- don't have a garage yet but it might come in handy when I do.

Well this just makes LOADS of sense! this would be perfect for a laundry room! That way you dont have to put your loads on the floor waiting to be washed.

throw all the travel sized/hotel shampoos/conditioners/washes/toothpastes in for the spare bathroom when you have guests. great idea!

Shutter Organizer! Check out more organizing ideas by blogger Deb for a better school year!


DIY Jewelry Wall

Under-cabinet knife block drawer - Away from the kids reach and off the counter!

This is the most genius thing I have seen in a while!!  Totally uses that dead space in the closet and keeps it really easily accessible... MUST DO!!


garage storage cart woodworking plan - LOVE this!


laundry room storage

Tension rod for spray bottles! Space saver.

ikea laptop workstation as vanity

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Weekly Market Update: July 8, 2013

A fellow named Newton once said that a body in motion tends to stay in motion. Presently, the housing market is going to be in a state of anti-motion, otherwise known as inertia. Each year, the activity around Independence Day collides with market trends because the summer holiday season ends up being more about family fun than housing fuss. As the market shifts from under us, things like historically low interest rates and rising rents cause pause for those with a clear idea of what they want despite the lack of funding to achieve it.

In the Twin Cities region, for the week ending June 29:

• New Listings increased 22.8% to 1,738
• Pending Sales increased 22.4% to 1,405
• Inventory decreased 16.8% to 15,405

For the month of June:

• Median Sales Price increased 17.5% to $210,000
• Days on Market decreased 33.6% to 75
• Percent of Original List Price Received increased 2.5% to 97.5%
• Months Supply of Inventory decreased 27.1% to 3.5

Source:  Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors

Monday, July 8, 2013

Stamped Concrete


Stamped concrete patio compass

Dyed concrete adds some flair to patio designs. Image: Pacific Concrete Images

A stamped concrete patio gives you the look and texture of a stone patio for a lot less than the real thing — up to 50% less than the cost of natural slate or limestone.

That’s not all. Stamped concrete can mimic brick, cobblestones, cracked earth, and weathered wood. Add a bit of fun with leaf patterns, animal shapes, even dinosaur footprints.

Best of all, a stamped concrete patio is low-maintenance — the “stones” won’t settle over time, creating uneven surfaces, and there are no grout or joints that can open up to let grass and weeds sprout.


What’s a Stamped Concrete Patio?



Creating a stamped concrete patio

Concrete stamping requires specialty tools to shape and smooth the surface properly.
Image: Enjoying the Scenery
 
A stamped concrete patio is simply a concrete slab with a textured, embossed surface. The contractor:

  • Pours and smooths the slab.
  • Presses a pattern into the surface while the concrete is still wet and soft.
  • For realism, adds color to the concrete as it’s mixed, or sprays it on after the surface has been stamped.
  • Make sure you hire a contractor who’s done stamping, and has the examples to prove it. Check references.

What’s the Deal with the Stamps?


Stamped concrete patio with hand-tooled border
This stamped concrete patio has a hand-tooled border. Image: The Concrete Artisans, Inc.

 The patterns are made using large, flexible polyurethane stamps. The stamps are about 2-by-2-feet square and an inch or two thick, and they’re pressed into the wet concrete to create the textured finish.

A concrete contractor may step on the stamps to press them into the concrete or use a tamping tool. Before putting the stamp on the concrete, the contractor sprays the patterned side of the stamp with a release agent that prevents concrete from sticking to it.

Using a colored release agent accents cracks and grout lines, giving the finish an “antique” look that enhances realism.

One pattern usually is a set that includes several stamps, each one with varying textures and shapes, so the overall pattern isn’t repeated too frequently. Stamps also have interlocking tabs so any grout lines align perfectly.



What’s It Cost?


Stamped concrete patio dinosaur fossils
Unique imprints, such as these dinosaur fossils, make a stamped concrete patio design your own. Image: Table Mountain Creative Concrete, Golden, CO


A stamped concrete patio costs $10-$15 per square foot, professionally installed. Here’s a quick price comparison:

  • Plain concrete: $6-$12 per sq. ft.
  • Brick: $14-$20 per sq. ft.
  • Stone, slate, or marble: $17-$28 per sq. ft.
  • Concrete pavers: $13-$20 per sq. ft.

Can I Do It Myself?

Making a stamped concrete patio is a fairly simple process, but only skilled DIYers should attempt it. That’s because concrete can be a tricky medium to work with:

  • It requires a properly installed base of compacted sand and gravel.
  • It’s heavy; you’ll need to be strong.
  • Concrete requires specialty tools to shape and smooth the surface (any specialty tool performs best in the hands of an experienced worker who knows how to use it).
  • Concrete sets up relatively quickly. Once it starts to harden, it’s difficult to apply the stamps.
  • A mistake in concrete is permanent.
You can rent concrete stamps at rental outlets and concrete supply stores for about $25 per day per stamp. Doing your own work saves 20% to 50% of the cost of a professionally installed slab and stamped concrete finish.


Any Drawbacks to a Stamped Concrete Patio?

Very few:

  • Deep depressions. Although stamped concrete is a good choice for ADA accessibility, be wary of deeply embossed patterns; all that texture may be tempting, but it creates uneven surfaces that make patio furniture wobble and may be hazardous for those with limited mobility. Accessibility guidelines require bumps and ridges on walking surfaces be no more than ¼-inch high.
  • Fair-weather color. Although you’ll have more color options with surface colorants, the colorants may flake off over time. Have your concrete dyed while it’s being mixed for a more permanent solution.
  • It’s got a ‘tell’. As good as stamped concrete may look, aficionados of real brick and stone will know the difference.

Can I Add a Stamped Finish to an Existing Patio Slab?

Yes you can, as long as your old slab is stable and in good condition. You’ll be raising the height of the old slab by an inch or so, so you’ll want to make sure the new level doesn’t interfere with existing steps or vents in your foundation walls. The new concrete shouldn’t touch your siding, either.

A pro will prepare the existing slab by cleaning it and covering it with a bonding agent that ensures good adhesion between the old concrete and the new.

Then, your contractor will cover the old slab with new concrete, and apply the stamps.

Source:  Houselogic.com

Sunday, July 7, 2013

New listing: 18694 Magenta Bay - Eden Prairie

18694 Magenta Bay, Eden Prairie, MN 55347



New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AQRRYZ

New listing videio just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/AQRRYZ/138/442

Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 4171

Asking Price: $599000

MLS #: 4385653

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Happy Independence Day 2013!



Where ever you are... at the lake, having a picnic in the park, spending time with friends and family... we hope you are having a wonderful 4th of July!

Eric & Sharla

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

The Housing Supply Is Looking Greener



Green building is moving into the mainstream. About one in five homes — or 20 percent — built last year were “green,” according to a study by McGraw Hill Construction. What’s more, researchers predict green homes to make up 29 percent and 38 percent of new homes by 2016.


Energy efficient home features are becoming nearly standard practice among some homebuilders nowadays. Many builders see “green” as a way to compete against existing homes, boasting it as a way for home owners to save money on utility bills.

Even in a down economy, home owners have showed a willingness to spend more for green features, according to a separate McGraw-Hill Construction study.

While the thirst for “green” homes is growing, buyers will have to pay more for it.

Nexus Energy Homes COO Bruce McIntosh told The Wall Street Journal that green homes cost about 5 to 10 percent more than homes that aren’t “green.” However, McIntosh notes, material and construction costs for energy-efficient building are on the decline, which may help open the doors more to green building.

Also, home owners hope that green home features will lead to a higher sales price when they go to sell too.

Studies have shown that home owners can see higher sales prices when they go to sell if they’re home boasts green features. For example, last year, researchers from the University of California found that green-certified California homes netted 9 percent more than a comparable house without a green label. Green-certified single-family homes sold for $34,800 more than comparable non-green certified homes, according to the study.




Source:  Styled, Staged, and Sold Blog

New listing: 4000 Landings Drive - Minnetrista

4000 Landings Dr., Minnetrista, MN 55375



New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/8H3D2D

New listing video just posted:  http://video.circlepix.com/8H3D2D/138/442




 
Description:




Home Information:

Beds: 5

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 3049

Asking Price: $330,750

MLS #: 4386025

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Weekly Market Update: July 1, 2013

Consumer confidence, prices, sales and percent of list price received at sale are all generally on the ups. This has been a nice place to be for real estate practitioners. In terms of expecting the unexpected trends, economists suggest tuning into indicators such as jobs, stocks and Federal Reserve policy decisions. The keen industry professional deserves the most up-to-date stats for daily decision making. Read on for this week's deserved sneak peek.

In the Twin Cities region, for the week ending June 22:

• New Listings increased 28.9% to 1,797
• Pending Sales increased 14.1% to 1,214
• Inventory decreased 18.2% to 15,195

For the month of May:

• Median Sales Price increased 14.8% to $194,000
• Days on Market decreased 29.8% to 87
• Percent of Original List Price Received increased 2.5% to 97.0%
• Months Supply of Inventory decreased 30.6% to 3.4

Source:  Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors

Price Reduction: 5210 Meadville St. - Greenwood

5210 Meadville St., Greenwood, MN 55331

Main Photo
New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/XJAK3F

Description: Welcome to Lake Minnetonka, this custom masterpiece built by Stonewood features the highest quality of craftsmanship and materials. The Cottage style design offers warm, sun-filled rooms perfectly designed with family and entertaining in mind. Good food and good company are two of life’s greatest pleasures and this open floor plan with its Gourmet Kitchen is where it all comes together. Expertly crafted antiqued cabinetry, butcher-block counters and enameled bead board ceiling finish off this inviting space. Enjoy stunning sunsets all year long from curved wall of windows in the dining room, this is truly the heart of the home. You’ll enjoy curling up with your morning coffee on the large window seat. The open floor plan also included a spacious Family Room featuring coffered ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace and enameled bookcases & entertainment center; making this space perfect for relaxing with the family or entertaining with style. The custom built see-through aquarium inspires creativity while the Home Office will also enhance your productivity. The second floor is where you will find the Master Suite with another curved wall of windows overlooking the lake. The private master bath offering spa finishes from the large pedestal tub to the custom mirrors and lighting fixtures. In addition to the two Junior Suites located on this floor, you will also find the spacious Bonus Room perfect for a guest suite, movie night or playing Wii. The third floor has recently been finished to accommodate an additional family room with large windows for natural light and features a rough-in for a future bath. Location, Location, Location! Sited on a premium, southwest facing lot on grade-A Excelsior Bay, this property enjoys a sandy bottom lakeshore. Originally a major tourist destination during the late 19th century, Excelsior exudes a Nantucket style atmosphere with the unique blend of old and new. Antique shops, an authentic Irish Pub, a movie theatre as well as a variety of specialty shops restaurants and lakeside park & commons create a special community. For information on pricing or to schedule a private showing, please call 952.470.2575.



Home Information:

Beds: 4

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 4154

Asking Price: $189,9900

MLS #: 4333027