The Bartel Group Blog

Spring, while objectively beautiful, isn't limited to warm weather, green grass, and blooming flowers. It's also the time when nasty pests come out of hibernation hungry, homeless, and ready to mate. Your home can be the perfect source of food and shelter for pests such as ants, bees, mosquitoes, ticks, flies, spiders, termites, and rodents, unless you combat them proactively. Preventing unwanted critters from invading your home is much easier and cheaper than addressing an infestation problem. And this involves reducing attractions for pests.

And if you're putting your home on the market this spring, having a sparkling and pest-free home will help attract buyers interested in Bemidji homes for sale and St. Cloud homes for sale. Here are some effective tips on how to make your home pest-free so you can enjoy a safe and comfortable spring.

• Seal Cracks and Gaps
  Any part of your home that's connected to the great outdoors can be an invasion spot. Pests can wiggle through tiny cracks and gaps, so you should routinely inspect the exterior of your home. Some of the spots pests will sneak through include doors, windows, chimneys, utility lines, siding, and roof shingles. Repair anything that creates a possible entry point and fill small cracks with caulk to prevent pests from entering.

  Click Here to Read More...

Whether you're an avid bookworm or a casual reader, it's still fun to celebrate World Book Day by buying, borrowing, or donating a book (or 10!). While you're out exploring Minneapolis homes for sale, consider stopping by a couple of these bookstores, libraries, and donation centers. 

• Paperback Exchange: 2227 W. 50th St., Minneapolis, MN 55419
  A locally-owned independent bookstore, Paperback Exchange has been a favorite among Minneapolis residents since 1975. They have over 150,000 books in stock and get new shipments every day. 
  
  From new-releases to hard-to-find, out-of-print editions, you'll find everything you could dream of here. They also carry journals and notebooks, greeting cards, and more, making this the perfect one-stop-shop for all your gift-giving needs.

  Click Here to Read More...

For most of us, coffee makes the world go 'round. Whether we're powering through a long day of showing clients all the best Minneapolis homes for sale or we're relaxing and enjoying a latte with friends, our real estate agents love visiting the many area coffee shops.

Barista Day is coming up, making now the perfect time to visit some of our locally-owned coffee shops and show your appreciation! Here are a few we recommend. 

1. Cafe Astoria: 180 Grand Ave. St. Paul, MN 55102
   If you've been looking at St. Paul homes for sale, you'll want to familiarize yourself with Cafe Astoria. You'll love the warm, cozy environment and the unique food and drink menu. We recommend trying one of their signature lattes, like the Creme Brulee, or something from the Secret Menu, like the Campfire Latte Espresso or the Rainbow Matcha. Make sure you come hungry because the sweet or savory crepes are incredible!

   Click Here to Read More...

Did you know that curling is one of the oldest team sports in the world that's still being played today? The game may seem unassuming at first, but it has been delighting participants ever since it was first played in Scotland in the 1500s. Curling has grown significantly in popularity across the Twin Cities in recent years, and there are plenty of great places to play near Minneapolis homes for sale. Whether you're new to the sport or have been playing for years, you'll definitely want to take a closer look at our guide to curling clubs and facilities in the Twin Cities.

Twin Cities Curling Clubs

• Frogtown Curling Club – 743 Western Ave. N, St. Paul, MN 55103
  The Frogtown Curling Club was the second club established in the Twin Cities, and it's a great place to learn the ropes of the game. This fun-loving group is happy to help new players get acquainted with curling and also hosts competitive leagues. If you're new to the game, keep an eye out for public Learn to Curl Clinics, which include a classroom session to teach the basics of curling, along with on-ice instruction.

  Click Here to Read More...

Pets add years of love and laughter to our lives. Whether you prefer dogs, cats, furry small critters, chirping birds, or unusual reptiles, adding a pet to your family will fill your home with joy. If you're looking for Arden Hills Homes for Sale or Victoria Homes for Sale, you can find the perfect pet for your home.

Pets become members of the family, so it's important to choose a pet that is a good fit for your home and lifestyle. To find the right pet, you may need to ask some questions that address your daily schedule, activities, health concerns, and budget:

• Does your job occupy most of your time?
• Are you gone more than 8 hours each day?
• Do you prefer active or passive activities?
• Do you suffer from allergies or asthma?
• Do you have ongoing health problems?
• Can you afford veterinary care expenses?

Once you answer these questions, you are ready to find a pet that will be the best fit for your home. Here are some helpful tips to help you find the perfect pet.

Click Here to Read More...