Saturday, April 26, 2008
Luxury "Patio Home" Living: 847 Aspen Circle, Waite Park, MN $419,900!
 Truly one-of-a-kind quality on Aspen Pond in Waite Park, Minnesota. Spacious one-level living meets the second story guest quarters or hobby area. Exceptional upgrades in every room. You have never seen convenient living so beautiful or inviting! 9' ceiling, custom cherry cabinetry, Cocoa Cohiba granite, Jenn-Air and Bosch appliances, extraordinary technology including plasma TVs and elite surround sound, custom lighting, central vac, in-floor heat and Maple baseboards, window casings and doors. Top-of-the line everything--because you deserve it! View this listing at: 847 Aspen Circle, Waite Park, Minnesota 53687.
Extraordinary Craftsmanship and Style: 315 Townes Lane, Minnetonka, MN $1,000,000!
 Classic detailing, true craftsmanship and dramatic finishings create the WOW factor for this outstanding two-story Minnetonka, Minnesota home. Unique and captivating describe the updates throughout the home: classic old-world style in its Gothic windows and vaulted ceilings; sensual living in the master suite with clawfoot tub and adjoining nursery or office; main floor living room with abundant light, gas fireplace and slate floor; gorgeous vistas from the dining room; a lower level family room with wine cellar, and a walkout patio with inspiring views of nature. Stunning! View this listing at: 315 Townes Lane, Minnetonka, Minnesota 55391.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
New Lake Beauty Listing: 25615 Hunter Trail, Long Prairie, MN $259,900!
 You are guaranteed to be impressed with the WOW factor of this Lake Beauty three-bedroom ranch-style retreat in Long Praire, Minnesota. Over 2000 finished square feet with dramatic vistas out nearly every window. New kitchen flooring, third bedroom and bath added in 2007, a relaxing 3-season porch, double-car garage and half-acre lot. (Lake Beauty is approximately 240 acres with a sandy bottom: perfect recreation!) View this listing at: 25615 Hunter Trail, Long Prairie, MN 56347.
Friday, April 18, 2008
BEWARE OF HOUSING HEADLINES!
 For the past year, it seems all housing news has been "bad" news. A case in point is the headline in our local St. Cloud Times recently blaring a huge ($20,000) decline in home values in the past year. Accompanying this article, oddly enough, was an Opinion Poll asking readers to respond to whether they believed their house had declined in value in the last year. READER: BEWARE OF THESE HEADLINES! Examine statistics.
- What, exactly, is being analyzed? A case in point with the local headlines: the statistics quoted to decry the seemingly huge decline in value were based on median sales price, a statistic confusing, if not unheard of, to the public and useful mainly to statisticians. When the public sees the "median sales price" being quoted, they read "medium" or "average" sales price--something very different. (In this case to the tune of $14,647.)
- Where was the study taken? Another case in point with the local headlines: the reader couldn't tell what area the statistics applied to, but the reader assumed St. Cloud and the most immediate surrounding area. If the statistics were instead based on the entire MLS area, (18 MLS zones vs. 8 locally) for example, the decline quoted would have dropped considerably and probably would have been more relevant. In addition, on a national level when statistics are quoted, they are often skewed by markets which work very differently from your local market, being dominated by heavy populations on both East and West coasts with specific variables which may not affect your area. (Co-op housing, for example.)
Be an informed and critical reader.
- Case in point in the local article: if the front page headlines constituted a news story, why was an opinion poll conducted on the readers' beliefs about whether there was a housing decline? If the stats were factual, why would opinions be relevant? Do we run opinion polls accompanying whether we believe (or not) that three people actually were killed in a local traffic accident?
- Examine slant or bias in the story: if housing prices went down in the past year, is the logical conclusion that this is bad for the consumer? (Does anyone, for example, benefit in the current market? Answer: of course! First-time homebuyers, for starters.)
- Housing statistics quoted may be provided by an economist vs. a real estate expert. Be advised: the financial (stock) market and real estate market are two distinctly different animals that seldom resemble each other in predictability.
Headlines can be frightening! Train yourself to read "between the lines" and seek out additional information. And as always, consult your real estate professional to help you make wise housing decisions.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
DO AND DON'T LIST FOR FIRST TIME HOME-BUYERS
Coldwell Banker Offers a "Do and Don't" List for First-Time Homebuyers Parsippany, N.J. (April 7, 2008): For most people, buying a home is the most significant investment of their lives. And in spite of the doubt and confusion clouding both the financial markets and news headlines, 2008 presents many genuine real estate opportunities--especially for first-time buyers. On average, housing inventory is up, prices are stable and historical data demonstrates that purchasing a home has proven a sound long-term financial investment. However, first-time homebuyers are often understandably anxious when it comes time to making what could be the largest purchase in their life. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has come up with a simple "do and don't" list to make the process easier for everyone dreaming of homeownership. DO:- DO utilize free online tools to arm you with as much knowledge as possible. For example, the Home Price Comparison Index available at http://www.coldwellbanker.com/ offers buyers a way to compare average housing costs in over 400 U. S. markets.
- DO take time to access and closely review your credit score. A sound financial track record and solid credit score can help lock in a loan and lower interest rates. Checking your records with a fine-tooth comb in advance will also ensure that you catch any errors ahead of time, as well as help you better understand how lenders may perceive you.
- DO explore mortgage pre-approval. Getting this early green light will help others involved with your purchase [understand] that you are serious about home ownership--and [are] well-qualified.
- DO line up your "all-star" team of professionals before game day. A team of experienced professionals will be key to making the home buying process simple and seamless. Start by interviewing and selecting a sales associate who you "connect" with. That sales associate should also be able to help you identify suitable lawyers, mortgage lenders, home inspectors and others who play a role in the process.
- DO anticipate your future needs and lifestyle. Try to anticipate how long you'll live in your next home and plan for major lifestyle changes when possible. What may make a perfect starter home for a couple might not work as well when children come into the picture. Remember, people move for lifestyle reasons and your first home will likely not be your last.
- DO hone in on your housings priorities. Your ideal home may have a porch, a pool and five full baths. But before you start looking, make sure to separate your "must-haves" from your "nice to haves," so you know where you can compromise to meet your budget.
DON'T: - DON'T fall in love with the first house or neighborhood you see. That grand colonial with the picturesque view may win your heart at first glance, but don't fall in love too fast. You need to keep an open mind to make sure you find the right fit for all your needs. At the end of your search, it may turn out that the riverfront ranch that's closer for your commute is a better bet all around.
- DON'T buy beyond what you can afford. It's easy to fall into that all-you-can-eat attitude when it comes to your first home purchase. You "want it all" when it comes to size, amenities, location, etc. But remember that your eyes may have a larger appetite than your wallet. Make sure that the downpayment, closing costs, monthly expenses and taxes are truly within your income and savings range, before you sign on the dotted line.
- DON'T treat your home the way you treat your stock portfolio. It's unrealistic and unwise to expect your housing investment to appreciate as quickly as you'd hope for your high-risk bonds. Buying for lifestyle, as opposed to trying to turn a quick profit, will help ensure that you are viewing home purchasing and ownership in the right context.
- DON'T try to time the market. By the time most consumers sense a major real estate or financial market shift, the tables have typically already turned. Instead of waiting for a slim and unreliable window of time--and potentially missing out on the perfect home--buyers should focus on their own lifestyles and buy when the time is truly right for them.
- DON'T jump into an exotic or confusing mortgage. When it comes to downpayments and mortgages, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be sure to read carefully through every aspect of the proposed agreeements to fully understand your end of the bargain. For instance, what seems like an attractive rate now may balloon exponentially a few years down the road. So arm yourself with information and don't be afraid to ask questions.
- DON'T underestimate the value of a trustworthy real estate agent's on-the-ground expertise. While being a savvy buyer and doing one's homework will help on the road to homeownership, a local expert with years of negotiating experience is invaluable when it comes to scouting out the perfect home--and closing the deal.
Incredible New Price on 1836 Eastern Star Loop, Sauk Rapids, MN $229,900!!
 WOW price on this spacious Sauk Rapids, Minnesota rambler. Five bedrooms, two baths, lower level family room and partially finished rec room. Back screened porch, 12 x 12 deck, fully landscaped, insulated garage and garage storage. Brand new roof!! A tremendous value at $229,900. View this listing at: 1836 Eastern Star Loop, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.
Gorgeous Listing, New Gorgeous Price: 38045 Wilderness Court, Sartell, MN $414,900!!
 Almost too good to be true: over 4,000 square feet in this country colonial loaded with extras and upgrades now for only $414,900!! Five bedrooms, three baths, custom maple cabinetry, main floor laundry, spacious main floor family room with gas fireplace, master suite with bubble tub, built-in bookcases and bonus room with garage entry. Front covered porch and private screened porch. Huge acre-plus lot and association access to 20 forested acres of maple, birch and recreation trails. View this listing at: 38045 Wilderness Court, Sartell, Minnesota 56377.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
New Senior Co-op Listing! 241 Broadway Street West, #122 Rockville, MN $114,900!!
 Convenient 55+ living in John Clark Co-op Housing in Rockville, Minnesota. This unit is spacious and meticulously maintained. Two bedrooms, a large kitchen, lots of light, living room has slider onto patio: lovely view for bird watching. Walk-in closets and pantry. Unit has its own heat source. Storage unit and secured entrance. Garage rental available. Common areas are fantastic! Community room with kitchen, crafts/exercise room, sun/rec room and workshop. As a bonus: guest room for visiting family and friends! Great value at $114,900!! View this listing at: 241 Broadway Street, West, #122, Rockville, MN 56369.
New Townhome Listing! 132 9th Ave. SE Saint Joseph, MN $129,900!!
 Three bedrooms, and two baths! Ample space in this updated St. Joseph, Minnesota townhouse. Convenient location, deck onto large yard space, stress-free association-maintained lawn, exteriors and snow removal. Newer vinyl windows. Corner unit for privacy. $129,900! View this listing at: 132 9th Ave. SE St. Joseph, MN 56374.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
New Price!! Tremendous Value on Five Acres at: 1737 Bishop Ave. NW, Buffalo, MN! $499,900!!
 Top shelf quality and workmanship, outstanding views on five acres and a sense of country living with all the conveniences of the city! This Buffalo, Minnesota rambler is incomparable in upgrades, beauty and now price! Granite countertops, ceramic tile, Hickory cabinets, Australian Cypress hardwood floors, built-ins, in-floor heat on the lower level, stainless steel appliances, custom window treatments, security system . . . the list of features goes on and on! In addition, room for four cars in the garage, (upper and lower) a concrete driveway, irrigation system and fully landscaped. Truly a dream home and a deal! View this listing at: 1737 Bishop Avenue, NW, Buffalo, Minnesota 55313.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Fabulous South Saint Cloud, MN Listing: 1240 S. 22nd Avenue $185,000!
 Truly a turn-key property in St. Cloud, Minnesota: this three bedroom, two bath split-level is perfectly maintained, fully finished and landscaped. It features a spacious kitchen with snack bar, a sunny three-season porch, remodeled bathrooms, French doors to the vestibule, a new forced air furnace, large lower level family room and full appliance package. As a sweet bonus: heated and insulated garage with lower level entry, under the deck storage, and 12 x 8 shed. Wooded lot. View this outstanding listing at: 1240 S. 22nd Avenue, St. Cloud, MN 53601.
New Townhome Listing!! 549 2nd Ave. South, Waite Park, MN $119,900!!
 Well maintained and unique Waite Park, Minnesota townhome: a complete package for $119,900!! Two bedrooms and two baths, a guest area, large living room, formal dining room, lower level family room with a walk-out to a spacious patio and backyard. Convenient laundry room. An attached garage! Located close to shopping, medical and entertainment. View this listing at: 549 2nd Ave. South, Waite Park, MN 56387.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
New Waite Park, MN Listing!! 803 Popplewood Court, Waite Park, MN $189,900!!
 Well maintained and spacious, this three bedroom, two bath split-level home in Waite Park, Minnesota is a genuine pleaser! It features walk-in closets in all bedrooms, a full appliance package, a roomy kitchen with prep and serving island, new carpeting and paint, a gas fireplace in the family room, and a 14 x 16 deck and aggregate patio. It is boasts a triple-car garage, sheetrocked with storage, a quiet cul- de-sac location, concrete driveway, sprinkler and securitiy system. View this home at: 803 Popplewood Court, Waite Park, Minnesota 56387.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
New Middle Spunk Lake Listing! 939 Hamlet Drive, Avon, MN $634,900!
 Year round living on Middle Spunk Lake in Avon, Minnesota. Nearly 3000 square feet in this 4-level home with four bedrooms, three baths, a four-season room, wood fireplace, patio, deck and gorgeous lake views from the kitchen. View this listing at: 939 N. Hamlet Drive, Avon, Minnesota 56310.
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