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September 24, 2024

Your Guide to Woodbury, MN

Located just a short drive from Saint Paul, Woodbury, MN, offers a blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. This vibrant city has grown into one of the most desirable places to live in the Twin Cities metro area, known for its excellent schools, lush parks, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're visiting for a day or considering making Woodbury your home, this guide will help you explore the best of what the city has to offer. Discover all the things that make Woodbury a standout destination below!

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Your Guide to Chaska, MN

Nestled along the banks of the Minnesota River and just a stone’s throw away from Minneapolis, Chaska is a vibrant city that perfectly blends small-town charm with modern amenities. Known for its beautiful parks and lively downtown, Chaska offers an appealing lifestyle for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re considering moving to the area or just visiting, Chaska has a little something for everyone — from its dynamic local businesses to its scenic outdoor spaces. Keep reading to discover the best of what Chaska has to offer!

When Is the Right Time to Buy New?

As home values and interest rates remain elevated, you may be wondering, “When is the right time to buy a new house?” There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Market trends, economic forecasts, and individual circumstances will all play a role in someone’s decision to buy. There are, however, some signs you should look for and steps you can take that indicate you’re ready to make the leap — no matter if you’re looking for your first home or forever home.

How to Pick the Best Home for Your Pet

There are a lot of factors thatgo into the decision to move. Maybe you need an extra bedroom to accommodateyour growing family, or perhaps you want to be closer to work. But above all,the most important consideration when selecting a new home is how it enhancesthe lives of all family members, including your four-legged ones.

From floor plans andmaterials to landscaping and community amenities, here’s how to pick the besthome for your pet — both inside and out.

Life-Proof Surfaces

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, maintaining a pristine home can be a daunting and difficult task. From sticky hands and spilled drinks to muddy paw prints and accidents, the surfaces in your home face constant wear and tear. That’s where "life-proof"surfaces come to the rescue. Whether you're a parent, a pet owner, or someone who values durability and ease of maintenance, this guide is for you.

23 Advanced Certified Homes on the Fall Tour

Minnesota’s Green Path is lighting the way to energy-efficient homes of the future. Testing nearly 5,000 new construction homes per year, the Green Path certification program gives homeowners a clear understanding a home’s energy performance. With rigorous standards and independent, third-party raters, you can be confident in Green Path certifications.

What the Fed’s Rate Cut Means for Homebuyers

The Federal Reserve announced this week they would make cuts to interest rate levels for the first time since March 2020. It marks a major turning point for homebuyers, particularly, after nearly two years of high mortgage rates and a significant slowdown in housing market activity.

If you're in the market to buy a home or looking to refinance, this rate cut could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Defining Home Types on the Parade of Homes

Every year, home enthusiasts, prospective buyers, and curious neighbors look forward to the Parade of Homes. Taking place in the spring and fall, the Parade of Homes is a chance to explore some of the most beautiful, innovative, and thoughtfully designed homes across the Twin Cities area. Whether hunting for your dream home or gathering inspiration for your own, the Parade of Homes is a can't-miss event.

September 28, 2022

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Remodeler

Are you ready to make updates to your home? Hire a professional remodeler to make sure the job is done the right way.

Builders & Remodelers
Remodeling
September 20, 2022

The Homebuyer's Dictionary: Terms You Should Know When Buying or Building a Home

New to the homebuying world? It may be time to update your vocabulary! To make sure that you are ready for the homebuying process, browse these terms related to real estate, building or buying a new home, or browsing homes near you on the Parade of Homes.

Home Tips & Tricks
September 19, 2022

2022 Fall Parade of Homes In the News

The 2022 Fall Parade of Homes Twin Cities is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across Minnesota. Here are all the places the fall tour has been covered in the press.

Home Tours
September 15, 2022

6 Questions to Ask When Buying Windows

Commonly asked questions about window types, features to look for, and maintenance tips. Brought to you by our 2022 Remodelers Showcase sponsor, Marvin.

Home Tips & Tricks
September 8, 2022

How Your Dream Home Ticket Helps End Homelessness

Housing is everything for those in need of secure and dignified shelter. Each visit to a Dream Home on the Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase can help someone out of homelessness.

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September 8, 2022

5 Tips for Planning Your Tour

The Parade of Homes is your perfect opportunity to walk through new construction homes and remodel projects, see the latest in home design, and connect with the talented builders who brought each home to life. There are hundreds of options across Minnesota—so how do you choose homes and start planning your tour route? We've got some helpful advice.

Home Tips & Tricks
Home Tours
August 31, 2022

Q&A With an Economist: Buying a Home in Today's Market

There are a lot of headlines surrounding housing right now. With rising interest rates and inflation, many are wondering if it is a good time to buy a home. We asked internationally renowned economist Elliot Eisenberg, PhD., about his thoughts on the housing market, the overall economy, and where we stand historically.

Housing News
August 16, 2022

Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway Makes Homeownership a Reality

Like many young Minnesotans, Wyatt and Sarah dreamed of someday owning a home. After a year of renting following Wyatt’s return home from the Army, they decided to start house hunting. With the market as competitive as it is, they were nervous how long it would take to get an offer accepted and if they would be able to find a home in their price range.

Real Stories
August 12, 2022

Fall 2022 | Calendar of Events

Don’t miss these special events put on by select builders and remodelers during the 2022 fall tour! These free events will introduce you to the teams behind the homes on the tour, the latest design trends, and much more.

Home Tours
August 10, 2022

8 Outdoor Features to Make Your Backyard Cozy & Inviting

Summer in Minnesota — a favorite season for many. And there’s no better way to spend it than outdoors. While cabins, camping, or trips to the lake are favorite ways to enjoy the summer weather, you can also make the most of your space at home. Soak up some sun or host friends from the comfort of your backyard. Whether it’s bringing in some new outdoor furniture or considering an addition, here are eight outdoor features and spaces that make for an extra-inviting backyard.

Design
Home Tips & Tricks
June 16, 2022

2022 Artisan Home Tour | In the News

The 2022 Artisan Home Tour is your chance to step inside homes designed and constructed by the region’s most exceptional builders and remodelers. These artisans create incredible residences that blend artistic vision with unmatched craftsmanship. Check out all the places this summer's tour of luxury homes in Minnesota has been covered in the press.

Home Tours
Housing News
May 27, 2022

Fresh Artisan Home Trends

Artisan Home Tour sponsors sound off on the features, finishes, and trends that embody the latest innovations in design and construction.

Design
Home Tours
April 27, 2022

19 Outstanding Parade Homes Win Spring Reggie Awards

Since 1968, Housing First Minnesota has presented the Reggie Award℠, which recognizes excellence in design and construction of homes in the Parade of Homes. The Trillium Awards honor the associates and trade partners for their collaboration with these award-winning builders.

Home Tours