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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/2026-03/</link>
        <description></description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/the-best-week-to-list-your-house-is-just-around-the-corner.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/the-best-week-to-list-your-house-is-just-around-the-corner.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>The Best Week To List Your House Is Just Around the Corner</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


While the Spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.


Based on their analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.


And here’s why this window stands out as being particularly seller-friendly:




Buyers Are More Active. According to the research coming out of Realtor.com, homes listed during this week typically get about 16.7 more views than in a normal week. And in a market where buyers have options, getting that extra attention can set the tone for your entire sale.


Sales Happen Faster. Realtor.com also explains the added demand from buyers sets you up for a faster process. While homes have been taking longer to sell lately, homes up for sale this week were on the market for 17 less time than usual. And that’s a difference you’ll be able to feel.


A Better Price for Your House. Since the number of homes for sale has grown, it’s normal for buyers to ask for credits, repairs, and price adjustments today. But, during this early Spring window, about 18.9 fewer homes do a price cut. That gives you a better chance of getting your full asking price.


More Profit in Your Pocket. According to the study, well-prepped homes listed this week can command a price that’s about $5,300 more than the average week (and $26,000 more than homes at the start of the year).




And what seller doesn’t want more eyes on their house, getting an offer in hand sooner (rather than later), and their best shot at selling for top dollar?


What You Need To Do To Get Ready


If you’re already thinking about selling and you want to take advantage of this sweet spot, your next step is shockingly simple. Just talk to a local agent.


Their expertise on your area is going to be key over the next few weeks. Because these trends are going to vary by state, city, and even neighborhood. And your agent will use that insider knowledge to help you figure out what you need to do now to get your house ready. Including:




What you’ll want to spruce up before listing


How to prioritize any repairs (and contractors that can help)


Quick wins that’ll have a big impact


What buyers care most about today




For some sellers, that’s a few easy fixes they can knock out in the next couple of weeks. A fresh coat of paint. Some new mulch. Or some light Spring cleaning.


For others, it’s worth taking another month or so to make some minor updates before listing. And that’s okay. Because while this mid-April window may give sellers an advantage, it’s not your only opportunity to sell.


Zillow says the best time to list is in May. And that means the golden window for sellers isn’t closing after this one week. It’s open all season long.


Bottom Line


Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:


Do you know what you need to do before you can list?


Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move.


If you want your house to hit the market this week (or even this season), let’s talk about what it’ll take to get it ready.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:07:00 -0500</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/you-cant-control-whats-happening-with-mortgage-rates-but-you-can-control-this.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/you-cant-control-whats-happening-with-mortgage-rates-but-you-can-control-this.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>You Can’t Control What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates. But You Can Control This.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


Mortgage rates have been volatile lately. And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that can make it harder to plan. But there are still things you can do to get the best rate possible in today’s market. It starts with having the right information.


So, what’s causing the bumps in rates? And what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.


Mortgage Rate Volatility Is Normal


Data from Freddie Mac shows the recent volatility. After trending down for well over a year, there was a rise this month (see graph below): 





While it’s easy to be distracted by the changes, here’s what you need to remember.


It’s normal for rates to bounce around a bit here and there. For example, if you look back at the graph, you’ll see that even within the past year there have been times like this when rates inched up. We’re in one of those moments right now and you need to be aware of that.


Especially when there’s economic uncertainty or big global events happening, volatility like this is expected. As Investopedia explains:


“Mortgage rates don’t move in isolation. When global events inject uncertainty into financial markets . . . that can ripple through to borrowing . . . mortgage costs can respond quickly to geopolitical developments. As long as uncertainty remains elevated, rate swings may continue.”


And that’s one of the reasons why trying to time the market isn’t a wise move.


You can’t control what happens with mortgage rates. But there are still things you can do to help you get the best rate possible in today’s market. And here’s where to focus your effort.


Your Credit Score


Your credit score plays a big role in the rate you qualify for. Even a small improvement can make a noticeable difference in your monthly payment. As Bankrate puts it:


“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”


So, make sure you do what you can to keep your credit score up. If you’re not sure what your score is or how you can improve it, talk to a trusted loan officer.


Your Loan Type


There are also different types of home loans – and each one can have unique requirements, benefits, and rates for qualified buyers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) explains:


“There are several broad categories of mortgage loans, such as conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans. Lenders decide which products to offer, and loan types have different eligibility requirements. Rates can be significantly different depending on what loan type you choose.”


That’s why it’s so important to explore your options with a lender. You may even want to talk to multiple lenders to see how the options vary.


Your Loan Term


The length of your loan matters too. Most lenders typically offer 15, 20, or 30-year loans. Freddie Mac offers this advice:


“When choosing the right home loan for you, it’s important to consider the loan term, which is the length of time it will take you to repay your loan before you fully own your home. Your loan term will affect your interest rate, monthly payment, and the total amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan.”


Again, to figure out what makes the most sense for your budget and long-term goals, have a lender walk you through all your options.


Bottom Line


Thinking about buying right now? The best advice is to accept that you can’t control where rates are going to go from here.


What you can do is work with a trusted lender and take steps that’ll help you get the best rate possible.


So, if you want to move today, let's make it happen. We just need to control the controllables and focus where it counts.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/3-must-dos-for-first-time-home-buyers.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/3-must-dos-for-first-time-home-buyers.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>3 Must-Do’s for First-Time Home Buyers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also be a little nerve-wrecking because it’s something you’ve never done before. And trying to think of everything you need to do can feel like a lot. But here’s the key.


You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. And you don’t have to do it all at once. Just tackle it one thing at a time.


Here’s a simple list of 3 main things you should focus on to help you get started.


1. Assemble Your Team: Don’t Do This Alone


Buying a home is a team sport. And having the right professionals by your side can make a world of difference. Here’s who you need to find: 




A local real estate agent is your guide from the first showing to closing day. They’ll make sure you understand all the details along the way, so you feel confident in your decision.


A trusted lender will walk you through loan options, monthly payments, and what’s realistic for your situation. That information is something you’re going to want early on.




2. Prep Your Finances: Set the Foundation First


This is what determines what you can afford, how competitive you’ll be, and how confident you’ll feel when it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to get ready: 




Check your credit score. Your credit score impacts the loan options you’ll qualify for and even the mortgage rate you’ll get. Knowing this number early gives you time to work on raising your score, if you want to.


Save for your down payment and closing costs. Most buyers focus on the down payment, but closing costs matter too. Having savings set aside for both helps you avoid last-minute stress and surprises.


Look into assistance programs. Many first-time buyers qualify for programs that’ll give their homebuying savings a boost. This can make buying possible sooner than you expect.


Talk to a lender about mortgage options. Fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, VA, and conventional loans all work differently. Understanding the options helps you choose what fits your goals best.


Get pre-approved. A pre-approval tells you what a lender would be willing to give you for your home loan. This’ll help you figure out your price range and set you up to move fast when the right home comes along.


Figure out your budget. Your mortgage is just one part of homeownership. Budgeting for your utilities, home insurance, and everyday expenses and maintenance will help make sure your payment feels comfortable, not stressful.




3. Gather Your Documents: Save Time (and Stress)


When you’re officially ready to kick off the buying process, lenders are going to need to verify your income, assets, and financial history. Having these documents ready-to-go upfront can speed up the process and reduce back-and-forth. Here’s what Bankrate says you need to prep:




W-2s and tax documents (past 2 years). These show income stability and help lenders verify your earnings over time.


Recent pay stubs (generally the past 1–2 months). Pay stubs confirm your current income and employment status.


Bank statements (past 2–3 months). These show your savings, spending patterns, and where your down payment funds are coming from.


Investment account statements (past 2-3 months). If you’re using investments as part of your financial picture, lenders may ask for these as well.


Copy of your driver’s license. This verifies your identity and is required for loan processing.


Residential history (past 2 years). Lenders use this to confirm stability and background information.


Statements for any outstanding debts (past 2 months). Student loans, auto loans, and credit cards affect your debt-to-income ratio, so lenders will want to know about them.


Proof of supplemental income. Bonuses, commissions, side work, or child support may count toward your income if documented properly.




Note: the exact time frames and list of documents may vary lender to lender. This is just a general rule of thumb to help you get the ball rolling.


Bottom Line


Buying your first home doesn’t mean you have to have everything figured out. It just requires a plan.


If you start with your finances, organize your documents, and surround yourself with the right people, you’ll be in great shape when the time comes to make a move.


And if you want more information on anything in this list or just need help getting started, don’t hesitate to reach out.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:14:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/affordability-has-improved-in-all-50-states.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/affordability-has-improved-in-all-50-states.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>Affordability Has Improved in All 50 States</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


For the past few years, affordability has been what’s stopped a lot of buyers in their tracks. Maybe it stopped you, too.


At some point you probably did the math, looked at the monthly payment, and decided to pause your search and wait for things to get better. But here’s something you may have missed while you’ve been sitting on the sidelines.


Over the last year, housing affordability has improved in all 50 states. Yes, you read that right. It’s gotten better in every single state.


That’s based on new research coming out of First American. And while housing is still fairly expensive compared to historical standards, the pressure buyers felt over the last few years is finally starting to ease.


Some Areas Are Seeing Bigger Improvements


The first thing you need to know is that this isn’t just happening in one region or in a small handful of cities. The trend is happening almost everywhere.


Sure, individual states, cities, and even neighborhoods are going to vary – sometimes by a lot. But overall, more buyers are able to buy again. And in 48 of the top 50 metros, affordability has improved over the past year.


That same research breaks down which cities are seeing the biggest gains:


Just in case you’re wondering: why these areas? It’s simple. In many cases, it comes down to the number of homes for sale.


When buyers have more choices, it creates a healthier balance in the market and that can help bring affordability back within reach. With homes up for grabs, it opens the door a bit wider for buyers to negotiate with sellers for credits, price cuts, and more. And it gives you more chances to find a house that works for your needs and budget.


It may make more of a difference than you think.


None of this means affordability challenges have completely disappeared. Buying a home is still a big financial decision. But the trend is moving in a direction many buyers have been waiting for.


As Chen Zhao, Head of Economic Research at Redfin, puts it:


“The housing affordability crisis is showing signs of easing . . . opening the door for more Americans to make the jump to homeownership.”


Bottom Line


If you were holding off on buying, this could be exactly the signal you’ve been waiting so long for. If you want to know how much affordability’s improved in our area, let's connect.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:31:00 -0500</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/if-your-house-isnt-getting-offers-read-this.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/if-your-house-isnt-getting-offers-read-this.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>If Your House Isn’t Getting Offers, Read This.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


Online searches for “can’t sell house” just hit an all-time high according to Google Trends. So, if your house has been sitting on the market without any bites, you’re not the only one. But it's also not the end of the road. 


Homes are selling every day, so you can turn this around. You just need to take another look at your approach.


If you’re feeling this pain, know this: an online search engine isn’t where you should go for your answers. It’s much better to talk to your agent. Because a search engine doesn’t know your market or your house. But your agent does.


While a quick search or an AI platform may give you some tips on what to try, only an expert agent can actually diagnosis what’s going on – and how to fix it.


For example, your agent knows most homes that struggle to sell today are usually being held back by one (or more) of these three things.


1. Presentation: Buyers Will Compare Everything


When inventory was tight a few years ago, buyers overlooked imperfections because they had to, or they’d lose out to another bidder. Now? That’s no longer the case.


Today’s buyers scroll through dozens of listings in just minutes. They compare condition, updates, lighting, finishes, layout, and more – all side by side. If your home feels dated, cluttered, or in need of repairs, buyers will notice and it’ll knock your house right off their list of contenders.


This doesn’t mean you need a full renovation. But it does mean first impressions matter again. To compete today, you need curb appeal. Clean spaces. Neutral colors. Professional photos. If there are scuffs on the walls, obvious repairs, or too many outdated features, it could be what’s holding you back.


2. Pricing: If the Price Isn’t Compelling, It’s Not Selling


This is maybe the hardest one to hear, but what your neighbor sold their house for a few years ago isn’t necessarily the same price you’ll get today. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at Cotality, says:


“For sellers, the days of pricing aggressively and expecting instant offers are largely over. Homes that are well-priced and well-presented will still sell, but pricing discipline matters more than it did during boom years.”


Buyers are budget-conscious right now. If your home is priced based on outdated expectations instead of current demand, buyers may still look at your house online… but they likely won’t write an offer. Or, they’ll make an offer that you think is too low.


Pricing too high for this market is one of the top things sellers miss the mark on today. And those who aren’t willing to meet the market where it is or entertain offers may feel stuck.


3. Access: If Buyers Can’t See It, They Can’t Buy It


It sounds obvious but limited showing availability can kill your momentum. If your house isn’t easy to see because you’re restricting showings to evenings only, no weekends, or requiring a 24-hour notice, you're cutting your buyer pool down by more than you may realize. 


And the more friction you create, the fewer buyers walk through the door.


In a market where buyers have more options, the last thing you want to do is give them a reason to skip your house. Availability matters because if no one sees it, no one buys it.


Don’t Let Search Results Decide Your Next Step


When your house isn’t selling, it’s tempting to spiral and wonder if it’s the market or if something’s wrong with your house. But instead of searching for answers online, here's what to do.


Sit down with your agent and ask three honest questions:




What are buyers looking for in today’s market?


What feedback are we getting from showings?


Why do you think my house hasn’t sold yet?




That conversation will bring a lot more clarity than any search engine results.


Bottom Line


If your listing feels stuck, it’s not a sign you shouldn’t sell. It’s the market giving you feedback. And feedback is powerful when you use it.


Start with a real conversation with a real agent about what’s working and what’s not. Your agent will be able to tell you which small adjustments could totally change the momentum. Because in this market, the sellers who adapt are the ones who move.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:20:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/should-you-wait-for-lower-rates.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/should-you-wait-for-lower-rates.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>Should You Wait for Lower Rates?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


Mortgage rates have already dropped into the upper 5s twice this year. But after just a few days, they ticked back up into the low 6 range. If you saw that and thought, “Great. I missed it,” you’re not the only one.


A lot of buyers are treating the 5s like some kind of magic number. As if moving from 6.1 to 5.99 suddenly changes everything. And from a mindset perspective, it does feel different.


But here’s the part most people don’t actually run the math on.


The Payment Difference Isn’t What You Think


Let’s say you’re looking at a $500,000 home loan. At 6.1, generally speaking, your principal and interest payment is roughly $3,030 per month. At 5.9, it’s about $2,966 per month.


That’s a difference of only $64 a month.


Not $300.


Not $500.


Sixty dollars.


Let that sink in for just a moment.


Yes, over time that $64 a month can add up. But it’s far from the dramatic swing many buyers imagine when they say they’re “waiting for the 5s.”


The psychological impact of seeing a 5 in front of your rate can feel big. The financial impact? It might be something you don’t even notice when it’s all said and done.


Experts Aren’t Predicting a Big Drop


Another important piece to think about: most housing economists aren’t forecasting a long-term return to 5 territory anytime soon.


While rates will move up and down, likely hitting the high 5s here and there, the broader expectation is for mortgage rates to hover in the low 6 range this year, not stay in the 5’s or decline much more.


While it certainly could happen, the reality is, waiting for a deep drop may not deliver the payoff you’re hoping for, if you’re holding out


The Bigger Question to Ask


Instead of asking, “Did I miss the 5s?” A better question is: “Does today’s payment work for me?” 


If the monthly payment fits comfortably in your budget, and you’ve found a home that meets your needs, the difference between 6.1 and 5.9 likely isn’t the deciding factor. It might be one of them, but it shouldn’t be everything. 


And remember, mortgage rates aren’t permanent. If they drop meaningfully later, refinancing is always an option. But you can’t refinance a home you didn’t buy.


Waiting Might Feel Safe, But It Isn’t Always Strategic


It’s natural to want the best possible rate. Everyone does. But sometimes buyers overestimate how much a rate in the high 5s will change things in today’s market.


Don’t miss the fact that rates have already come down. A year ago, they were in the 7s. Now? They’re hovering in the low 6s. And for a lot of people, that percentage point difference that’s already here is the real game changer.


If you paused your plans when rates were higher, now may be the right time to re-run your numbers. Not because rates are “perfect.” But because the monthly payment math might work better than you think, even with rates in the low 6s. 


Before assuming you’ve missed your moment, take another look at the numbers.


You may find it never disappeared.


Bottom Line


If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for that magic number for rates, that strategy may not pay off as much as you’d expect.


Let's connect so you can double check the math at your price point. You may realize payments are already within your range.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:36:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/spring-sellers-have-an-edge-heres-why.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/spring-sellers-have-an-edge-heres-why.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>Spring Sellers Have an Edge. Here’s Why.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


Homeowners looking to sell usually want three things: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline. Spring is the season that most often delivers all three.


So, if a move has been on your mind this year, this is the window where momentum tends to work in your favor. Here’s what makes this season so powerful for sellers.


1. More Buyers Will Be Looking


Typically speaking, in the housing market, there’s no more popular time to move than the Spring. Historically, data coming out of ShowingTime proves that’s when buyer activity peaks each year. Take a look for yourself (see graph below):


And this year, there’s more than just the seasonal trend working in your favor. Mortgage rates are also sitting near 3-year lows – and that combination matters.


More buyers + improving affordability = more eyes on your house.


That doesn’t mean the market will return to the frenzy of the pandemic – far from it. But it does mean more buyers will be ready to re-enter the market. And that’s good for you. As Redfin says:


“Homebuying demand is improving . . . and mortgage-purchase applications are sitting near their highest level in three years. . .&quot;


You should make sure your house is listed so you can take advantage of the uptick in demand. Because more activity means one thing: more opportunity to get a deal done.


2. You May Get More Offers


With more buyer demand, it makes sense that you may get more offers on your house. And history shows that’s usually true.


If we look at the data for the last three years from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and take the averages for each month, it’s clear sellers in the Spring get more offers (see graph below):


Now, don’t expect the excessive bidding wars that were so famous in 2020 and 2021. But it does mean, seasonality could help you out this Spring. As Realtor.com explains:


“Spring typically brings out more buyers who are ready to make a move before summer. Listings see more views, showings, and offers during this season.”


And that could be really good for your bottom line.


3. Homes Usually Sell Faster


There’s one more predictable pattern that happens pretty much every Spring based on research from Realtor.com. Homes sell faster (see graph below):


On average, homes sell 20 days faster in the Spring compared to the Winter. That’s almost 3 weeks shaved off your timeline. And that's a difference you can feel.


Since homes have been taking longer to sell lately, listing your house during what’s usually the most active time of the year means you’re setting yourself up to move as quickly as possible. And isn’t that what sellers really want?


The faster your home sells, the earlier you can move on to what’s next for you.


If you’re eager to go on to your next chapter, need to downsize, or you’ve run out of space, Spring may be your best time to sell.  


Bottom Line


Spring doesn’t guarantee a sale. Strategy still matters. But this season gives you something valuable: momentum.


More buyers. More activity. More opportunity.


The real question is: if you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor?


Let’s talk about what selling this season could mean for your house and your timeline.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:41:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/are-home-prices-dropping-heres-the-real-story.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/are-home-prices-dropping-heres-the-real-story.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>Are Home Prices Dropping? Here’s the Real Story.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


You’ve probably seen posts on social media talking about how “home prices are falling.” And when you see something like that, it’s normal to wonder:


Is this the start of a crash?


What does this mean for my house?


Let’s clear this up right away. This is not a crash. And your home is not suddenly losing a lot of value.


The National Story – Prices Are Still Going Up


Here’s what often gets left out of what you’re seeing online. While some markets are experiencing slight declines, they’re the minority. Most places are still seeing prices rise or at the very least, hold steady.


That’s why, at the national level, home prices are still rising, just at a slower pace. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):


“Home prices continued to rise in the fourth quarter of 2025. National median prices rose 1.2 year over year to $414,900.”


That’s not the rapid growth of a few years ago, but it’s not a downturn either. And just to really drive this home, here’s a look at the data from NAR at a regional level, so you can see that the negative narrative spun up online isn’t the whole truth (see graph below):


Home prices are up (or at least holding steady) in the Northeast, Midwest, and South. The West has seen some small declines in certain markets, but “small” is the key word.


There is no wave of falling prices across the country. Instead, there are just a few pockets adjusting after several years of what’s typically considered unsustainable or exponential growth.


Yes, Some Markets Have Come Down, But Look at the Bigger Picture.


Okay, but what about the places where prices have declined? According to ResiClub and Zillow, that’s not a cause for major concern. When you zoom out and look at those same markets over the past five years, the story changes (see graph below):


In the areas with recent declines, home values are still significantly higher than they were just five years ago. That’s a direct reflection of how much home values have gone up.


Online chatter tends to shine a spotlight on the few areas that are down. But the bigger picture shows most homeowners are still in a very strong position.


Of course, every market, and every home, is different. But broadly speaking, home values are holding steady. And this isn’t a sign of widespread trouble in the market.


Bottom Line


Despite what you may be seeing online, home prices are rising or holding steady in most parts of the country.


If you’re curious what your home is worth today, let’s take a look at the numbers together. Because context, and local expertise, matter more than what you’re seeing online.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:11:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/the-hidden-advantage-repeat-buyers-have-right-now.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.minneapolisurbanhomes.com/blog/the-hidden-advantage-repeat-buyers-have-right-now.html</link>
        <author>richard@drgmpls.com (Richard Newman)</author>
        <title>The Hidden Advantage Repeat Buyers Have Right Now</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



 


What if you didn’t have a mortgage payment on your next house? It may sound a little unrealistic. But for a number of homeowners, it’s actually doable.


Nearly 3 in 10 homes purchased today are bought in cash, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). That’s far more than the pre-pandemic norm (see graph below):


So, how are so many buyers pulling that off? The answer is simple: home equity.


Back in 2020-2021, mortgage rates and the number of homes for sale were both at all-time lows. And that combination pushed home prices up, fast.


If you owned a home during that time, it likely gained significant value – maybe even enough to buy your next house in cash. NAR explains:


“. . . rising home equity has armed many existing homeowners with the financial leverage to make cash offers, allowing them to convert years of price appreciation into immediate purchasing power.”


Here’s why you may want to go that route yourself, if you have enough equity to do it.


1. Your Offer Becomes More Attractive


Sellers value certainty. And an all-cash offer removes one of the biggest unknowns in a transaction: financing. As Rocket Mortgage explains:


“Cash offers are attractive to sellers. Sellers often prefer to work with cash buyers if they can because they don’t have to worry about a buyer’s financing falling through at the last minute.”


In many markets, an all-cash offer can give you a serious edge.


2. You Can Close Faster


And since you don't have to worry about underwriting, lender approvals, and loan processing, the time it takes to close shrinks. Cotality puts it this way:


“Cash buyers have always enjoyed an edge over borrowers. They remove financing risk, reduce delays, and often close in days rather than weeks.”


If the owner of the house you're buying is already under contract on their next home or they just need to move fast (like for a new job), that speed is a real draw.


3. You Won't Have Monthly Mortgage Payments


When you buy in cash, you don’t have to finance your purchase. That means you don’t have to worry about what today’s mortgage rates are and you own the house outright from the day you close. And that’s a big deal.


No mortgage.


No monthly payment.


Full ownership.


That financial freedom opens the door for other big lifestyle benefits. Zillow explains:


“Paying in cash means you own your home outright. This eliminates the need for monthly mortgage payments, freeing up your finances for other priorities like savings, travel, or home improvements.”


4. You May Get a Better Deal


And here’s one more thing that surprises a lot of homeowners: cash buyers often pay less for the house.


According to Cotality, all-cash buyers tend to spend roughly 9 less on the house than buyers who use a mortgage. That’s because some sellers are willing to accept lower offers to get a deal done quickly, with more certainty of closing, and fewer financing hoops to jump through. As Cotality explains:


“From a seller’s point of view, a lower but reliable offer can feel preferable to a higher one that may collapse weeks later.”


And that advantage grows with each passing year (see graph below):


Is an All-Cash Move Realistic for You?


Not every homeowner will buy their next house outright in cash. And that’s okay.


But the bigger takeaway is this: the equity you’ve built may give you more options than you think. 


Whether that means downsizing and eliminating a mortgage entirely, or just relocating with stronger negotiating power, your current house may be what makes it possible.


Bottom Line


Before assuming you’ll need another traditional mortgage, it’s worth asking one simple question: How much equity do you really have? Because the answer might change what you thought your next move could look like.


Curious what your home equity could do for you? Let’s run the numbers and see what kind of buying power you’re really sitting on.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:17:00 -0600</pubDate>
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