What to Expect During the Home Inspection Process

What to Expect During the Home Inspection Process

Buying a home is an exciting journey, and the home inspection is a crucial step in ensuring your investment is a sound one. A home inspection provides a detailed evaluation of the property’s condition, helping you make an informed decision before closing the deal. Here’s what you can expect during the process.

1. Scheduling the Inspection

Once your offer is accepted, schedule the home inspection promptly, as it typically needs to be completed within a specified timeframe outlined in your purchase agreement. You’ll hire a professional home inspector to conduct the review.

2. The Day of the Inspection

On the inspection day, the inspector will evaluate the home from top to bottom, inside…

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Seasonal Trends: When is the Best Time to Sell your Home?

Seasonal Trends: When is the Best Time to Sell your Home?

Selling your home in Minnesota requires strategic timing to maximize your return and expedite the process. Understanding seasonal trends in the local real estate market can provide a significant advantage.

Spring and Early Summer: Peak Selling Season

In Minnesota, the real estate market typically heats up during the spring and early summer months. New listings often peak in April and May, with pending sales following in May and June. Closings tend to reach a yearly high in June and July.

This period benefits from pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and families aiming to relocate before the new school year, contributing to higher buyer activity.

Advantages of Selling in…

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March Lakes Area Investor Meetup

Join us March 26th for this month's Lakes Area Investor Meetup! Learn from fellow investors about their experiences, tips and tricks, and current deals their working on! It's great to learn from a speaker, but it's also great to hear what is working for others in the room! We are excited to give you the floor time and have intentional discussions!

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, March 26th Time: 6:00 PM
Location: 3rd Floor Conference Room in the Creative Touch Boutique building

Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your network and your potential. Mark your calendar and get ready to connect, learn, and level up your investing game. We can’t wait to see you there!

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10 Questions to Ask When Touring a Home

10 Questions to Ask When Touring a Home

Touring a home is an exciting step in the buying process, but it’s also a time to ask important questions to ensure the property fits your needs and budget. Beyond the aesthetics, understanding the details of the home can help you make an informed decision. Here are 10 essential questions to ask when touring a home.

1. How Old Are the Major Systems and Appliances?

Ask about the age of the HVAC system, roof, water heater, and kitchen appliances. Replacing these can be costly, so it’s important to know if they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.

2. What’s Included in the Sale?

Clarify which fixtures, appliances, or furnishings come with the home. For example, ask if the washer and dryer, light…

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February Lakes Area Investor Meetup - David Justice

February Lakes Area Investor Meetup - David Justice

We are so excited to hear from David this month on his real estate investing journey, specifically with his development and start-up of Lake Darling Resort! He is a wealth of knowledge and has fun, young energy to bring to the table! Join us this month! You won’t want to miss it -Lakes Area Investors Meet-Up on Wednesday, February 26th, at 6:00 PM.

Networking with fellow investors creates a powerful environment for growth and collaboration. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just starting your journey, meeting others who share your passion can spark new ideas, reveal innovative strategies, and even lead to potential partnerships.

You’ll leave not only with valuable knowledge, but…

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A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Getting Preapproved for a Mortgage

A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Getting Preapproved for a Mortgage

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, congratulations on taking this exciting step! One of the first things you’ll need to do is get preapproved for a mortgage. This crucial step not only helps you understand how much home you can afford but also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the preapproval process with confidence.

What is Mortgage Preapproval?

Mortgage preapproval is when a lender evaluates your financial situation and determines how much they’re willing to lend you. It’s different from prequalification, as preapproval is a more in-depth review and often includes a conditional commitment for a loan.

Steps to Get…

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Buying a Fixer-Upper: Is It Right for You?

Pros and Cons of Buying a Fixer-Upper: Is It Right for You?

Buying a home is a big decision, and for many, the idea of purchasing a fixer-upper can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you're drawn to the potential of creating your dream home or intrigued by the prospect of saving money upfront, there’s a lot to consider before diving in. Let’s explore the pros and cons of buying a fixer-upper to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you!

The Pros of Buying a Fixer-Upper

1. Lower Purchase Price
Fixer-uppers typically cost less than move-in-ready homes, making them an appealing option for buyers on a budget. You can often get more house for your money, even if it needs some TLC.

2. Customization Opportunities
One of the biggest…

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Area Winter Activities

Explore the Lakes Area This Winter!

Winter in the Alexandria Lakes Area is more than just snowflakes and chilly temperatures—it's a season full of exciting events that bring our community together and showcase the best of what this region has to offer. Whether you're looking for a cozy winter activity or an adventurous outdoor activity- we have a little bit of everything to make your winter memorable.

weekly Indoor events

Sunday Brunch at Carlos Creek Winery

Looking for the best way to spend your Sunday? Head over to Carlos Creek Winery for a delicious and unforgettable Sunday Brunch experience! Enjoy every week on Sundays from 10-2pm in a family-friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere!

Smart Alex Trivia at Copper Trail Brewing

Take part in a…

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Why Networking Matters

Why Networking with Like-Minded Investors is a Game-Changer

Success in real estate investing isn’t just about finding the right properties—it’s about building the right relationships. That’s why the Lakes Area Investors Meet-Up is an event you don’t want to miss!

Join us on Wednesday, January 22nd, at 6 PM for an evening of networking, learning, and growing alongside fellow investors. This meet-up is your chance to connect with others who share your passion for real estate and are eager to exchange ideas, strategies, and experiences.

Our featured speaker, Aaron Conn, will present an insightful talk: "Think Like a CEO: Approaching Real Estate Like a Business." This session will provide actionable tips to help you scale your portfolio and make…

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Skipping the Goal Planning this Year

A note from your Broker -

Happy New Year, ConnCrete family! I hope your Christmas and New Years season has been a time with some relaxation and rest. If it's been more busy than relaxing, I hope you take some time this January to recuperate a bit if you desire that.

I love this time of year! I love winter. I love a little bit of hibernation, hot drinks and blankets. I love snowshoeing and ice fishing. I also deeply love goal planning, setting intention for the year, and reflecting on the previous months and year. For the past ten-ish years since being out of college (crazy it’s been that long.. uffda!), I’ve had a structured time of setting goals each December or January. It’s always been refreshing for this organized, type-a planner. It’s something…

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