Key insights:

• Understanding what to include on your dream lakeshore home checklist is essential.
• Waterfront properties are best judged in person, but it’s important to know what you should be looking for.
• Although you can greet your new neighbors with a delicious pie, there are many ways to introduce yourself and become involved in a new community.

Is it time to invest in a home away from home? Buying a lakeshore home has different considerations than a primary residence. Here are some insights you can use as you consider purchasing a waterfront property in Minnesota or western Wisconsin.

1. List your requirements

The first step in deciding whether or not you should purchase a lake property is to make a list of everything you want from your lakeshore home experience. Ask yourself:

• Are you hoping to have a ski boat?
• Do you plan to spend your days fishing or kayaking?
• Do you want to be able to eat at waterfront restaurants you can access by boat?
• Do you want neighbors close by or something more remote?

Once you narrow down your lake criteria, start researching different area lakes to see what they have to offer. You’ll want to consider everything from the sunset views down to the types of fish in each lake.

In addition to listing your preferred lakeshore features, start ranking other home characteristics that are important to you. Whether you’re most excited about having a home large enough for visitors or living on a chain of lakes so you can spend all day on the water, ranking your criteria will help you narrow down your options.

2. Get trusted insights

Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred area and home features, we can work together to find the ultimate lakefront property take into account:

• Quality of the lake lot
• Elevation of the land
• Lakeshore experiences in different communities
• Right type of lake for you
• Lake home versus cabin

In an ideal world, the perfect waterfront property will already be listed. But it’s possible that it will take a few months, or longer, to find the ideal lakeshore home for your needs. During this process, rest assured that we’ll be working with your best interests in mind.

3. Tour waterfront properties in person

While it may seem like you can get a good idea of a home from photos online, it’s especially important to see waterfront properties in person. Everything from the lake size and the home’s natural light to the shoreline structure and elevation of the home is important to consider when buying a lake home — and almost impossible to gauge from even the most beautiful listing photos.

Therefore, it’s important that we schedule time to view homes in person. Block off an entire day or weekend to tour several lakeshore homes in your preferred areas.

As you peruse houses, remember to go back to your ranked list — this will help as you narrow down your choices. But, keep in mind that lakeshore homes, like any segment of the market, come in varying sizes and conditions. If you have your sights set on a particular lake, and a fixer-upper house with a shoreline property pops up on the market, you may begin to channel your inner DIY skills. It can be helpful to stay flexible, as long as you also remain realistic about how a different type of property would affect how you spend your lakeside time.

4. Apply for a mortgage loan

If you’ll need financing for your lake home, we’ll get you in touch with a mortgage consultant. They are able to walk you through the various options of purchasing a lakefront property.

5. Factor in outside costs

We’ll work with your mortgage consultant and other trusted resources to help you factor in the costs of owning a lakeshore home, including:

• Non-mortgage related costs
• Utilities
• Homeowner’s association fees
• Property repairs
• Winterizing services

By planning for these expenses in advance, you’ll ensure that your first year of memories as a lakeshore homeowner will be marked by coffee on the deck and sunset cruises to end the day, instead of emergency repair calls.

6. Start the duplications process

Once your offer has been accepted, it’s time to start planning for the future. If your lakeshore home will be a second property, you’ll need to buy duplicates of many household items, including:

• Furniture
• Bedding
• Kitchen and bath towels
• Table settings
• Cookware
• Cooking utensils
• Flatware

To stay budget-friendly, consider upgrading the small kitchen appliances in your primary residence, or other furniture and home accessories. Then, send the extras to the cabin. In addition, keep an eye out for flash sales and deals at discount stores that still carry high-end products. You can also make a fun day of shopping estate sales and garage sales of other waterfront properties. While shopping around, you can channel a unique “up north” decor style to help you decorate your lakeshore property.

Keep in mind that in some cases, lakeshore home sellers are willing to include furniture, décor and even their kitchen and dining items with the sale. This is especially common if the seller isn’t planning to purchase another waterfront home. If you’re interested in that route, we can discuss how to make the request and incorporate the agreement into the terms of your contract.

7. Get to know your neighbors

Many lakes, depending on where they are located, have community meetings or neighborhood groups that discuss upkeep, water trends and testing, and residential and commercial growth of the area. By attending one of these meetings, you can learn more about the kind of community you’ll be moving into while meeting neighbors and new friends that you can invite out for happy hour once you move in.

On top of meeting face-to-face, neighborhood Facebook groups have grown in popularity. Try searching your prospective community or lake name in order to get a feel for the area and to see what your future neighbors are concerned about and celebrating. Or, you can type your address into Nextdoor. This platform allows locals to build connections and strengthen their communities through conversation, advice and recommendations. With a little online community-building, you can get integrated into the area even before you move.

8. Check out local festivals and customs

You’re about to enjoy your first full summer as a lakeshore homeowner, so make it count. Once your closing date approaches, start researching local customs and festivals and make sure you’re in town for them. Visit the in-town bakeries, shops and restaurants and ask the proprietors for insider tips on the best places to boat, hike, fish and more. Soak it all in — you’re a weekend warrior now!

Purchasing your lakeshore home

Ready to get on the water? Reach out today for the insights you’ll need to buy a home on the lake this summer.

For more tips on buying a home, follow #BuyerInsights on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Key insights

• Warm weather matters! Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for open houses in our market.
• Sellers should take extra precautions to appeal to large groups who are entering their home all at once.
• Buyers should respect each home they visit, while still doing the reconnaissance needed to determine if the house is a top contender.

Open house season is upon us! Whether you're buying or selling, here are five tips to keep in mind as you plan your weekends around open houses.

Open house tips for sellers

1. Try to see your own dirt

Buyers want homes that would be featured on HGTV or Pinterest – and that means every speck of dirt must go. In addition to dusting and vacuuming, be sure to wipe down your blinds and walls (including baseboards) and check corners for cobwebs. Wash your windows inside and out, using balled up newspapers to minimize streaking.

If you live in an older home where decades of peeling paint layers make it difficult to get everything 100 percent clean, consider hiring professionals.

2. Empty your closets and cabinets

Overflowing closets, cabinets or pantries will give buyers the idea that your house doesn't have enough storage space. Try to downsize your belongings or rent a short-term storage unit to hold your overflow as you sell.

3. Nothing is off limits

While buyers shouldn't dig through your closets or drawers, it's unrealistic to keep a room or closet off-limits. If you usually cordon off areas from pets or children, be sure to remove the gates or barricades.

Don't forget about locked storage spaces in your garage. The more access you give buyers, the more appealing your home will be. To play it safe, plan on finding alternative solutions for securing valuable items when your home is on the market.

4. Clear the premises

Don't hang around your house during the event and don't sit in your car across the street like you're on a stakeout mission. Buyers need to see the property uninterrupted and they may not be honest with themselves (or you) if you remain onsite.

Remember, pets should be removed from your home during an open house, too. It can be a hassle to find a doggy daycare or to keep Rover at the park for three hours, but it's simply not worth turning off buyers who aren't keen on animals. Plus, you don’t want to stress out your pet!

5. Show off the best features

Still love your home? Show it off! In these spring and early summer months, you can display your home's best outdoor features, like a pool or updated landscaping. In the winter, start a roaring fire prior to your open house guests arriving so your home feels like the coziest abode on the block.

If you live near parks or trails, we can print off local maps to distribute to interested buyers, so they fully understand all the amenities they'll enjoy nearby if they purchase the home.

For buyers

1. Measure away

Bring a measuring tape and keep track of the sizes of the rooms that are most important to you. If you have a "must-keep" antique banquet, be sure that it fits the back wall in the dining room. As you tour the bedrooms, note if your California king-sized bed will fit in the master suite.

These aren't necessarily deal breakers, but you may find that if you're trying to choose between two homes, room dimensions can be a deciding factor.

2. Pay attention to light

Most open houses happen during the brightest hours of the day, so pay close attention to how well-lit the house is and where the light is coming from. You may want to note the weather when you tour each home, too. If the home seems dim but it's stormy outside, try to return on a brighter day to see the best-case lighting scenario.

3. Put on your friendliest face

It’s okay to chat with the REALTOR® showing the property and try to make a connection of some sort with them, but keep in mind that most interactions will be between your agent and the listing agent should you decide to make an offer on the property.

While your offer will be evaluated and accepted or declined by the seller according to its merits, there are certain issues that can arise as the home proceeds to the closing table. If a disagreement pops up over an inspection, appraisal or what the current homeowner thought was a fixture, it's best to have a friendly relationship from day one to help diffuse issues and agree on compromises.

One caveat: If you’re already working with an agent, talk with them about whether you should go to open houses and how you might want to limit your interaction with the listing agent.

4. Ask questions

Ask about the neighborhood, including schools, parks and the property’s recent tax bills. You’ll also want to consider utility costs when buying the home, such as estimated heating and cooling expenses, which some sellers are willing to share.

5. Pay attention to demand

Try to listen to what other buyers are saying as they look over the home. If they think the home is underpriced or overpriced, that could change your bidding plan. On the other hand, try to keep your feedback to yourself until you've left the property, so you don't give away your hand. If the listing agent asks you any questions about your budget or interest, remain neutral. Keep in mind that the agent is the seller’s agent and may share everything you say with the seller.

Good luck!

Whether you're buying or selling, the next few months will be marked by balloons and signs on street corners. By following these basic rules, you'll be destined for open house success.

And if you need help selling your house or buying another, be sure to reach out today. This market is heating up and together, we can work to get you the outcome you desire.

Key insights

• Sellers may find themselves in a tight spot if they sell their property but haven’t yet found a new home to purchase.
• To avoid this anxiety, sellers may consider adding a reverse contingency to their purchase agreement.
• In a reverse contingency, the seller adds a clause saying that the home’s sale is contingent on their purchase of a new property.

Worried about being temporarily without a turf during the time between selling your current home and buying a new one? Here’s how using a reverse contingency can help certain sellers ease their mind as they list their home for sale.

What is a reverse contingency?

When there’s a shortage of homes for sale, sellers typically rejoice. After all, the simple dynamics of supply and demand dictate that in a low-inventory market, sellers can benefit from shorter time on the market and increased sales prices.

Of course, sellers who need to buy another home have the same disadvantage as every other buyer as they scan the market for homes in their preferred location and budget. And this can cause anxiety for sellers who aren’t sure they’ll be able to find an acceptable new home before their current home closes.

That’s where a creative option, known as a “reverse contingency,” can come into play. In a reverse contingency, sellers insert a clause into the purchase agreement that makes their home sale contingent on finding another home to buy. This is the opposite of a buyer’s contingency clause, which makes a home sale contingent on whether the buyer can sell their home.

When should sellers use a reverse contingency?

Let’s say you receive a very attractive offer on your home, but you haven’t yet found another one to buy. In this case, consider adding a reverse contingency clause into your purchase agreement.

The REALTOR® representing you can help with the exact language, but in essence, the reverse contingency gives you a period of time to try to find a new home before you are legally bound to sell your home. The point is to buy you time but to get these buyers (and their very attractive offer) under contract while you look.

Then, if you find a home during that period that suits your needs and you are able to come to terms with the seller, your contingency will be removed and you’ll move towards closing the sale of your own home. If you don’t find a home during that time, you can:

• Cancel the purchase agreement and walk away from the deal.
• Negotiate a longer contingency if the buyer is willing.
• Negotiate for a longer path to closing, so the sale moves forward and you still have time to continue searching.

Note: When making the decision to pursue a reverse contingency, don’t rely on stats or news stories about the market as a whole. Real estate is hyperlocal and so is buyer demand. If we’re working together, we’ll be sure to walk you through the interest for homes like yours and help you determine if a reverse contingency is the right call.

An alternative option: Transitional housing

If a reverse contingency doesn’t feel right, another option is to arrange short-term or transitional housing, which allows you to sell in a strong market while taking the time you need to find — or build — your perfect house.

Many people report that moving to a short-term residence reduces the worry and stress of rushing into a buying decision. Transitional housing allows you to take your time, do your research and find the perfect home. There are many interim living arrangements and options to consider if your current home sells before you purchase a new property.

Depending on the length of your stay and the size of your family, common transitional housing options might include:

• Renting a single family house or townhome with a short-term rental.
• Contracting with your buyers to rent your home back from them until your new home is ready for occupancy.
• Renting an apartment month-to-month or on short-term rental.
• Contracting with an extended stay hotel or inn.
• Staying with friends or family who have extra space or a vacant home.

The right team

Selling a home can be stressful. But with a little time, creativity and the right team in place, you can find your temporary living arrangement while gaining the flexibility and freedom needed to find your ideal home.

If you’re ready to make your move, make sure you’re working with a team you trust. Get in touch today to have a no-pressure discussion about selling your home. Plus, follow #SellerInsights on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube to get more expert advice and insights.

Key insights:

• Pollinators — including butterflies, bees and birds — contribute to our food sources, crop production and economy.
• To continue enjoying gardens and produce, we must work to maintain pollinator populations.
• Your yard can become a beautiful pollinator haven in a few simple steps.

The sun is out and it’s time to enjoy it. If you’re completing any DIY yard projects to keep up with landscaping trends this summer, consider planting a pollinator garden. Not only do pollinator gardens add a beautiful touch of color to any yard, they also help support the environment.

Here are insights you can use to better understand the importance of pollinator gardens and advice on how to create one.

What is a pollinator garden?

A pollinator garden is created for, you guessed it, pollinators! Pollinators are any species that collects pollen from one plant and delivers it to another. It’s important that this transfer of pollen happens, because without it, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy fruit from trees, flowers from gardens or plants in nature.

Pollinators may be bees, butterflies, birds or bats. These little insects and animals play vital roles in the health and growth of our plants and ecosystem. But, due to habitat loss, pesticides and other factors, pollinators are in trouble.

Movements like the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge are driving restorative action so that pollinators have room to thrive. In fact, the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge has surpassed its goal of registering one million pollinator gardens. Raising awareness about pollinator gardens is the first step and now it’s your turn to pitch in.

Why are pollinator gardens necessary?

Pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we take each day. Plus, they contribute to healthy air, rich soil, and crop production. From the growth of plants to the impact produce has on the economy, pollinators are contributing more to our daily lives than the untrained eye can see.

How can you plant a pollinator garden?

Creating a pollinator garden can be simple. In fact, with these beginner landscaping tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a breathtaking garden that serves a greater purpose in your yard. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Empty green space
• Garden tools to break the soil
• Extra dirt and mulch
• Seeds and/or plants

To begin, choose the location of your garden. Any spot in your yard will suffice, but for the biggest impact, consider that butterflies enjoy basking in the sun and insects will benefit from some shelter from gusty winds. Once you decide where to place your garden, you’ll need to prepare the soil in that spot. To do so, remove the grass and rake the dirt below. Extra soil can be added to the area if needed. After the ground is prepped, you’re able to begin planting. Consider these tips when creating your pollinator garden:

• Purchase plants that have not been treated with pesticides or insecticides, which will kill off the pollinators that we are trying to help.
• Choose a variety of pollinator plants, including colorful flowers, Black-eyed Susans and Milkweed.
• Group similar flowers together — insects tend to have favorite flowers, and creating patches of flowers will make their job of pollinating easier.
• Plant perennials to ensure that your pollinator garden will last year after year.

Once your garden is complete, you can enjoy its beauty and the company of the pollinators. Be sure to follow the “Three W’s” of gardening during this time:

• Watch the growth and progress of your pollinator garden.
• Water your flowers to keep them healthy and strong.
• Weed the garden if necessary.

Keep in mind, a pollinator garden can be any size. So, if you only have space on the balcony of a condo, you may still consider adding pollinator-friendly planters on your deck to create a small, yet effective space of refuge for pollinators.

Happy planting!

If you’re hoping to continue enjoying the sweet taste of honey and the sight of colorful summer gardens, it’s time to protect our pollinators. Give bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects and animals a safe haven by planting a pollinator garden where you have space.

And, if you’re hoping to spruce up your home to sell this summer, get in contact any time for help and insights.

Key insights:

• The down payment on a home may seem daunting, but there are many ways to make it manageable.
• If you’re serious about saving for your down payment, be proactive about setting up savings accounts and applying for down payment assistance programs.
• Let technology take over; you can save for your down payment via apps that automate the savings process.

When becoming a new homeowner, the excitement to seal the deal may be overshadowed by fear of the down payment. The lump sum of money that equates to the down payment on a home is difficult for many homebuyers. In fact, a poll conducted by the Minnesota Association of REALTORS® found that 81 percent of Minnesotans view the down payment and closing costs as substantial challenges when buying a home.

Even if the down payment seems intimidating at first, it’s important to save as much as possible toward your payment. By making a sizable down payment upfront, you’re likely to save in interest over the life of the loan and you may receive more favorable mortgage loan terms as well.

If you’re not earning as much as you’d like or you have debt you need to pay down, how do you save for a down payment? Here are seven ideas to get you started.

1. Sign up for down payment assistance programs

State-run programs in Minnesota and Wisconsin, known as down payment assistance programs, can help homebuyers foot the cost of their down payments. These programs are available to both first-time homebuyers and seasoned homeowners that meet certain criteria. For example, you may need to meet income limits, have an eligible minimum credit score, or purchase a home within a certain price range.

2. Plan your savings in advance

By planning your savings early, you’ll know where you stand when it’s time to take out a mortgage. While setting money aside, be sure to talk with a lender. These professionals can help you prepare your finances for buying a home. Plus, lenders may give advice on how you can adjust your budget or clean up your credit so you’re best positioned for favorable loan terms and a healthier down payment.

3. Save money without thinking twice

When it comes to saving money, it can be easier said than done. So, set yourself up for success by automating a percentage or set amount of each paycheck into a savings account. As the saying goes, out of sight, out of mind — you’ll be less likely to spend the money when you don’t see it sitting in your checking account.

You might also consider paying for necessities with cash only, like groceries and gas. Doing so has helped many potential buyers better understand their finances and budget.

4. There’s an app for that

Love technology? Consider downloading a savings app on your smartphone. This small but meaningful adjustment could provide the extra boost of savings you need to afford your down payment.

Qapital is a savings app that allows you to put a timeline on your money-related goals. Then, it encourages you to put change aside to save within the app. Furthermore, with Qapital, you’re able to set goals and challenges with others. So, if you’re working toward purchasing a home with your partner, this app could be a great option. Digit, another savings app, analyzes your bank account and estimates how much money you can spare without notice. Then, it tucks these small withdraws away in a savings stash.

5. Open a dedicated savings account

Minnesota supports first-time buyers with an opportunity to open a savings account dedicated to financing and closing on their home purchase. By opening a first-time buyer savings account, you can save toward your down payment while also benefiting from tax incentives. The interest accrued in your first-time buyer savings account will be free from state taxes. Be sure to consider this option when financing your down payment — and reach out if you have questions on how or where to get started.

6. Be thankful for outside contributions

You may also be fortunate enough to receive mortgage gift funds from generous friends or family. Your lender can offer the specific list of steps that are required in order to utilize mortgage gift funds.

Another way to gather extra money toward your down payment is through long-term GoFundMe or other crowdfunding-style campaigns. If your friends and family still give birthday presents, you may consider asking your nearest and dearest to contribute to an account dedicated to your down payment. A few hundred dollars here and there can end up making a significant dent in your down payment. Please note: We’re not suggesting you ask everyone on the internet for money — just those who regularly contribute to you on special occasions.

7. Get a side gig

If you have extra time to spend earning money toward your down payment, consider joining the gig economy. Whether you become a rideshare driver or you rent out part of your home, you can make extra cash on your own terms through a gig job.

Ready to purchase a home?

You’re in the right place! Reach out any time to get help finding a home with a down payment in your budget.

Key insights:

• A fixer-upper may require attention, but you can customize the home however you’d like.
• If you have a tight budget, fixer-upper price points and renovation loans could be your solution.
• Be sure to consider what your expectations are post-home-sale; a fixer-upper may be the perfect fit for one buyer... but a headache for another.

The housing market is currently facing low inventory and affordability challenges. And, while a turnkey home is preferable for some owners, it may be the optimal time to consider homes that aren’t in perfect shape — yet. Here, we explore the benefits and downsides of purchasing a fixer-upper.

Lower price points and (potentially) fewer buyers

Pro: Fixer-upper homes tend to be priced lower than houses that are completely modern and ready to move into. So, you may save money right off the bat when considering a fixer-upper home.

In addition, these homes may not be drumming up as much interest initially. Therefore, you may not have to enter a bidding war, which also tends to drive up a home’s price.

Con: Although a fixer-upper home may save you money, you might end up putting the money you saved back into the home through renovations and other improvements. So, despite saving money up front, you could end up spending the same amount (or even a bit more) in the long run.

Your house, your customizations

Pro: When you’re fixing up the space, you can make the home entirely yours. Although fully renovated houses are great upon move-in, over time you may wish the space were different. With a fixer-upper, you can ensure that the kitchen layout matches your lifestyle or that the main floor has a small bathroom and laundry room instead of an oversized mudroom.

When you upgrade the fixer-upper house, you’ll have control of the home design and can make decisions that benefit your lifestyle and needs.

Con: Remember that some features that seem fabulous to you may not be at the top of the next buyer’s list. So, if you’re not going to be in your house for a long time, or you plan to flip it, be sure to consider your desires and the home renovation projects with the highest return on investment.

Renovation loans can help with budget and timing

Pro: If you choose to purchase a fixer-upper, you may be able to take advantage of renovation loans. A renovation loan bundles up your home mortgage loan and the cost of any needed repairs. One stipulation that lenders put on renovation loans is a set deadline for your proposed upgrades. But this end date may be just what you need to get all your upgrades completed in a timely fashion.

Con: Most lenders require a very specific project plan with set deadlines for selecting a contractor and completing the work. The process of getting approved for a renovation loan — while working to secure a contractor who agrees to the work — can be stressful. And, you’ll need to coordinate the project plan while also sealing the deal on the home. Be sure to consider the potential stress and stipulations that can come with renovation loans. Is a fast renovation plan right for you?

Small budget, big dreams

Pro: When purchasing a fixer-upper, you might be able to make more of a small budget. Some buyers find that by purchasing a house with “good bones,” they’re able to put their money into the renovations they desire most. With thoughtful consideration and planning, you can stretch your budget to get meaningful results.

Con: If you’re funding house updates with a renovation loan, know that your lender may limit your renovations to take up a certain percent of your total loan limit. That means that the type of renovations you see on reality TV shows — where the buyer pays $100,000 for the house and then puts in $200,000 worth of updates — may not be possible for you.

And in general, remember not to gauge your renovation costs off what you see on HGTV or home fix-up blogs. Many of these folks benefit from partnerships to get discounted materials, low-cost (or free) contractor labor and other items that aren’t factored into the budget you see shown on the screen.

Final considerations

All in all, you must consider your personal preferences when determining whether or not a fixer-upper is right for you. A turnkey property may be extremely convenient, and you’re less likely to have to deal with immediate large repairs or issues post-close. However, a fixer-upper home may better fit within your budget and give you the chance to customize your space.

If you have questions about what is right for you, it might help to have a quick, no-pressure discussion about your house dreams (and fix-up skills). Get in touch any time to have a frank conversation that can help you formulate the right plan for your future home.

Key insights:

• The Remodeling 2019 Cost versus Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) outlines the top home renovations that will give Minnesota homeowners a return on their investments.
• An entry door replacement may seem like an insignificant change, but this switch provides the ultimate ROI.
• Content homeowners and interested home sellers can both benefit from housing renovations.

Are you ready to take on some home renovations this year? The 2019 Cost vs. Value Report analyzed regional data from the West North Central states, including Minnesota, in order to determine the best remodeling value of various home projects. Take a look at these at-home projects so your renovations can not only look great, but also provide you with the best return on investment (ROI).

Manufactured stone veneer

Adding a stone veneer to the front entrance of your home can add ultimate curb appeal. This renovation has a 93.5 percent ROI, making it the top choice for homeowners who want to make their money back. The cost of the project is estimated at about $8,900, although the costs for each of the projects we mention will depend on the individual home, materials used and contractors selected.

Stone veneer siding can give a typical suburban or urban house an extra boost of visual interest. So, if you want your home to stand out from the rest of the houses on the block, be sure to consider adding a stone veneer to your list of potential renovations.

Siding replacement

It’s recommended that siding be replaced every ten to fifteen years. So, if the outside of your home is beginning to look dingy or you’re ready for a fresh exterior color, look into replacing your home’s siding.

You should expect to spend around $15,000 for the equipment and labor of this task, and a siding replacement can typically provide an 87.4 percent ROI for Minnesota homeowners. This makes perfect sense — buyers who are searching online will be able to tell the difference between aging siding and a brand-new facade. Homes in tip-top condition will be viewed more favorably.

Entry door replacement

Entry door replacements have always been a home renovation staple. This home upgrade lands homeowners with an 82.3 percent ROI, after costing about $1,800. Therefore, it’s easy to understand why this relatively inexpensive and minor change is so popular amongst homeowners.

By adding a new door, you’ll be able to draw in buyers both online and in-person. Plus, for the ultimate impact, consider purchasing a quality steel door in a catchy color — or paint over a neutral door to add the pop of color yourself.

Upscale garage door replacement

A high-end garage door replacement offers a high ROI of 81.0 percent and the upfront cost can be around $3,600. Similar to the entry door replacement, a simple garage door swap-out can provide a big impact on the curb appeal of your home. When choosing a new garage door, select a motorized door.

And, after choosing what color you’d like your new garage door to be, take a look at the different garage door styles. A variety of traditional, contemporary, and unique garage doors exist. The door profiled in this report includes windows in the top panel, which will add to the cost — but also are said to pay off at resale.

Minor kitchen remodel

If you’re hoping to make a larger upgrade within your home, your focus should go to the kitchen. A minor kitchen remodel, which includes cabinets, countertops, energy-efficient appliances, flooring, and wall color, has an estimated cost of $22,000. The report predicts a 78.4 percent ROI at resale. By transforming these aspects of the kitchen, you’ll be well on your way to an updated and exciting space.

Why renovate? And when?

Renovations are about more than just a financial return on investment upon resale. You should also consider how much of the upgrade you’ll be able to enjoy before you place your home on the market.

If, for example, you’ve been hoping to upgrade your kitchen for a decade, take on the renovations with enough time to enjoy your new cooking oasis before you sell your home.

By modernizing your house at a time that benefits you, you’ll be able to enjoy the upgrades now, then sell the space for more down the road. Therefore, you’ll ultimately get both a lifestyle and financial ROI.

If you’re renovating with the hopes of selling your home now, reach out today to get no-pressure insights you can use as you update your house and move on to the next chapter.

© 2019 Hanley Wood, LLC. Complete data from the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.

Key insights:

• Gardens can be both practical and beautiful, a definite plus for your curb appeal.
• After months of neglect, it is time for outdoor deep cleaning from window pane to lawn edge.
• Bring the outside in and let the fresh air battle those persistent odors.

Now that you’ve spent the winter months decluttering the inside of your home Marie Kondo style, it’s time to take your spring cleaning outdoors! Whether you’re hoping to tidy things up to prepare for a spring sale or you simply want to maintain your curb appeal, having a fresh front entrance is ultra-important. Here, we’ll provide insights you can use to keep the exterior of your home in tip-top shape.

Groom your garden

Gardens and landscaping add an extra element of charm to the exterior of any home. By playing with natural plants, flowers and stones, you can transform your yard into a stunning space. Even better, adding or touching up your garden and landscaping doesn’t have to break the bank. With these simple and inexpensive gardening tips, you can have a flourishing front yard in no time.

Start with the basics

If you’re just getting started with your garden or you’d like to incorporate a worry-free addition to your existing flora and fauna, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of plants that will provide beauty to your yard without excessive maintenance.

Shrubs add a layer of texture and depth to any garden, plus they are easily complemented by surrounding flowers. Here are some shrubs to consider planting in your garden:

• Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle
• Black Chokeberry
• Spirea
• Bush Cinquefoil
• Fragrant sumac
• Juniper
• Currants
• Hydrangeas

Have your plants and eat them, too!

Recently, locally-sourced foods have gained recognition. Farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants are on the rise. Not only do these options provide nutritious foods, but they also offer cost-effective food options. Now, you can take advantage of your garden space and grow your own fruits and veggies for ultimate convenience and affordability.

Need some privacy?

Some of the hottest landscaping trends are practical too. By adding trees or a vertical garden, you can spruce up your space while adding an extra layer of privacy between you and your next-door neighbors.

Deep, deep clean

Throughout the winter, some areas of the home are difficult to maintain. We don’t blame you... the snow and cold don’t make it easy to focus on your home’s exterior! But, now that the sun is shining, it’s time to deep clean areas that may have been neglected during the colder months.

Here are some areas to focus on deep cleaning and tips to get you started:

• Window sills and frames: Clean both inside and out
• Clean up and organize your garage
• Patio or deck: Be sure to power wash, wipe down outdoor furniture
• Clean the air conditioning unit (now might be a good time to test it as well)
• Flower beds: Tidy up and lay fresh soil
• Pack up boots and jackets from your mudroom
• Gutters: Clean them out, then make sure your downspouts are facing away from your house and foundation
• Swing sets: Grease swing chains, wipe down slides and rake sandboxes
• Lawn: Pick up sticks and aerate the yard

Bring the outdoors inside

Don’t let the musty smell of a long winter overpower your decluttering efforts. Welcome the smell of spring and bring the outdoors inside.

Start by opening up windows to circulate fresh air through your home. You might also consider adding some potted plants and flowers to your living space. The natural aroma of plants will make your home smell great, naturally.

Ready, set, clean!

Need customized advice on curb appeal and staging? Reach out any time. Whether you’re cleaning up in preparation for a summer sale or plan to list your home next fall, we can help you stay on track.

Key insights:

• As this winter’s historic snowfall begins to melt, many homeowners are worried about potential flooding in their yards and homes.
• To help prevent flooding, you can check your gutters and street drains for blockage and assess your roof for ice dams.
• Check your home for clear signs of water damage, and get in touch with an expert if you aren’t sure how to handle it.

As our historic levels of snow begin to melt, it’s easy to imagine local homeowners excitedly chattering about the arrival of spring. Instead, many are focused on the potential for flooding in their homes and neighborhoods.

Here are insights you can use to help prevent flooding on your property — and advice on when to call a professional if you notice water damage in your home, yard or streets.

Watch for pooling water near storm drains

At this point, who hasn’t been amazed by the giant pools of water and slush we encounter as we drive through our neighborhoods or walk the dog? It’s easy to focus on taking cover from the impending deluge as a car drives by, but smart homeowners (and good citizens) can also work to uncover snow drains that may be blocked off from ice or snow build up.

Those blocked drains can cause the snowmelt to pool up on our streets and into our yards; they can also lead to backups in basements. If you can spare 10-15 minutes, head out on your block with a shovel or sharp tool that can help break up the ice or snow that’s covering your closest storm drain.

If you don’t know where the closest drains are located, Google your address and click on “Street View” within the Google Maps function. The Google team takes snapshots of your neighborhood in snow-free months, so you can zoom in on your curbs to locate the storm drains near your property. Some cities like St. Paul even offer residents the opportunity to adopt a drain and pledge to keep it clean and free-flowing.

Check your roof for snow drifts and ice dams

Of course, it’s not just the snow on the ground that’s causing trouble for local homeowners. Roof build-up can lead to ice dams, which cause water damage as the melting snow seeps through your shingles and into walls and insulation. Professionals are saying that ice dams are at their worst in 20 years or more, so you are certainly not alone if your icicles are looking extra treacherous this year.

We are likely past the point of being able to prevent ice dams, though specialists do recommend removing large, heavy drifts of snow from your roof if possible (Hint: Buy a roof rake). It can also help to check that your gutters are draining and that your downspouts are positioned to help runoff flow away from your property.

If you notice that your house is showing signs of ice dams, contact a professional immediately and be prepared to wait a few days (and spend a few dollars) due to the number of homeowners who are in similar situations.

Know the signs of water damage

Start by checking your basement and exterior foundation for standing water, then explore your attic for signs that ice dams are causing interior damage. Call for professional help if either of these signs are present. You’ll also want to move valuables and papers to safer locations in the event that your basement floods.

Once you’ve confirmed that there isn’t risk of immediate flooding or major roof damage, you can look for smaller indications of water damage in your house. We recommend assessing:

• Walls and ceilings for stains and sagging
• Your roof for missing or damaged shingles, as well as leaks, cracks or damage around the chimney
• Basement drywall, which is at a higher risk for mold

If you have a dehumidifier, we recommend running it in your basement until the snow has fully melted and your water damage risk has sufficiently decreased. You should also check that your sump pump is in working order if you have one, and seal all cracks in your foundation with weatherproof caulk or spray foam..

Consider flood insurance

A typical homeowners insurance policy doesn’t cover flood insurance, so it’s important to consider a secondary flood insurance policy if you think you’re at risk of major damage from flooding. Depending on the provider, it can take 30 days for flood insurance to go into effect, so it’s important to act quickly if you think you’re at risk of flood damage this year.

Reach out if you need help getting in contact with a trusted insurance agent who can walk you through flood insurance coverage.

The silver lining

Assessing and preventing flood damage can be a daunting task, but it can also help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run. And remember, snow melting is a sure sign that winter is coming to an end. So if you really need a silver lining as you perform this one last winter weather task, here it is: Spring. Is. Coming. Promise.

As always, get in touch if you have any questions on how you can best protect your house from damage and inclement weather.

Homeownership can be complicated, but we also think it’s one of the most rewarding ventures out there. In our series, Ask an Edina Realty Lawyer, we are hoping to demystify some of the trickier aspects of buying, selling and owning a home.

In this edition, one of our lawyers discusses the laws and rules that may affect a homeowner’s ability to operate a business out of their home.

Dear Edina Realty Legal,

I’m thinking about starting up a mail order business in my home. Am I allowed to run a business out of my residence?

Probably, although it depends on what you want to do specifically and the city in which your home is located. Let me explain.

By your question, I can see that you know there are some limitations on what you can do on your own property. These limitations are imposed by the local government — typically the city, but sometimes a township or the county. The regulations are called zoning laws.

What is zoning?

Cities typically want to exercise some level of control about how property can be developed and used. They do this by dividing the city into various zones, which may include, among others:

• Single-family residential
• Multi-family residential
• Commercial
• Industrial

For each zone, the city designates what types of activities and uses are (a) permitted, (b) permitted with conditions and restrictions, or (c) outright prohibited. This is why someone can’t build a factory in your residential neighborhood.

Home occupations

Many zoning laws contain regulations specific to running a business out of a home in a residential area. In the legal and government-regulation world, we refer to these businesses as “home occupations.” Many cities allow home occupations but impose various rules and limitations on the operation of the business.

The primary concern of these regulations is that the residential neighborhood still maintain its residential character and that the business not disturb its neighbors. In order to accomplish this, the cities will set forth various rules, commonly concerning:

• Is exterior signage advertising the business allowed?
• Who can participate in the business at the home? In Minneapolis, only one nonresident employee can work in the home. Some cities don’t allow non-residents at all.
• Can customers and deliveries come to the house? In North Oaks, Minnesota, the city prohibits any activity outside of the house itself, including deliveries to the business.
• If customers are allowed at the house, are there specific requirements for liability insurance?
• What equipment and machinery, if any, can be used?
• Some types of home occupations are simply prohibited. Each city tends to have its own list of prohibited home businesses. For example, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, you can’t have an ice cream shop in your home. And most cities do not allow residents to run an auto repair shop as a home business.

If you’re thinking about starting a business in your home, be sure to check with your city or other local authority to learn about any restrictions on your plans.

Condos, townhouses and other associations

If you live in a condo, townhouse or some other property where you have a homeowner’s association (HOA), you may have an additional layer of rules on top of the government regulations. Even if a home business is permitted by the city, an HOA could prohibit it or place other restrictions on its operation. If you happen to own a property subject to an HOA, check to see if any of the HOA rules impact your home business idea.

The Edina Realty Legal Department serves as in-house counsel for Edina Realty and does not represent private clients. This Insight is not intended to provide legal advice.