The Bartel Group Blog

Housing 

Cash buyers continue to make up a significant portion of the U.S. housing market, with nearly one-third of home sales this year being all-cash purchases. Although investors make up a considerable number of cash sales transactions, the increasing availability of remote work during the pandemic has allowed some homeowners to sell their homes in pricey markets and relocate to less-expensive locales, where they're able to pay cash for a new home, giving them an edge in a highly competitive market.

Provided by the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors.

Mortgage Rates

Concerns about the Delta variant, and the overall trajectory of the pandemic, are undoubtedly affecting economic growth. While the economy continues to mend, Treasury yields have decreased, and mortgage rates have followed suit... 

~Provided by www.freddiemac.com 07-22-21

If you're getting ready to pursue that long-awaited patio addition, there is no better time to get started. Adding a patio is a fantastic way to improve your outdoor space while simultaneously increasing your home value. Some of our favorite Brainerd homes for sale and Coon Rapids homes for sale have beautiful patio spaces, which always make for an attractive selling point. 

If you're planning to add a patio to your home this summer, there are a number of things you'll need to consider before beginning construction, so it's important to prepare accordingly. Below are some tips to keep in mind during the planning process:

• Be Realistic On Size
  When building a patio, you need to carefully consider how much space you have to work with. Building a patio that is too large or small in relation to the rest of your home can make your outdoor space appear awkward. Consider the patio furniture, the size of your grill, and how many people you'll be hosting outdoors. Some experts say to allocate 25 square feet for each person you want to have on the patio. To host 10 people comfortably, you'll need at least 250 square feet.

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If you've been busy exploring Minneapolis homes for sale, you're sure to find your dream home soon! When you do, you'll want to make your new house feel like a home by choosing decor you love. 

There's nothing quite like an original painting to give your walls some character. Sure, you could buy a painting, but why not make your own? There are several great DIY painting classes and parties in the area. They're a ton of fun and are a great way to relax. Best of all, when you're done, you'll have a one-of-a-kind creation to hang in your new home. 

July is World Watercolor Month, making now the perfect time to try out your painting skills. Here are a few of the best local places where you can embrace your inner Picasso.

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It's easy to get lost in the vaulted ceilings, beautiful views, and spacious rooms of your potential new home. These marvelous features contribute to the home's ambiance and hint at your future lifestyle. But, it's important to find your focus and turn your attention to the home's more utilitarian spaces. In particular, you don't want to overlook the garage of the Arden Hills homes for sale you have your eyes on. These rooms can have hidden qualities...and hidden flaws you will want to know about before you sign the papers.

• Look the Garage Up and Down
  Look at the roof and walls for signs of leaks and other damage. Streaks on the wall, bubbling drywall, and sagging ceiling panels are indications that there is a moisture problem in the garage. You should also look at the insulation. This is often overlooked, but it can have a significant impact on your monthly utility bills. Make sure the insulation isn't compacted and that it's not moldy or smells of mildew. 
  
  It's also vital to look at the floor. Make sure you look closely for cracks and signs that the concrete is separating. While standing water is rare unless it's recently rained or the floor has been cleaned, if you see water stains on the floor it's an indication that there is a low spot where water collects and pools.

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What could be better than a fresh, cool, flavorful scoop (or two!) of ice cream on a summer day in the Twin Cities? Whether you're searching for a scoop near Minneapolis homes for sale, planning a family outing close to St. Paul homes for sale, or trying to sample the best flavors in both cities, there's nothing like an ice cream tour of the Twin Cities. Start scouting out your favorite flavors and planning your next ice cream outing with our guide to 6 great places to grab a scoop around the Twin Cities.

• Milkjam Creamery – 2743 Lindale Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55408
  You never know what you might find when you visit Milkjam Creamery, and that's part of the fun. This popular Minneapolis ice cream shop is constantly experimenting with new flavors, and creating new things for you to try. Summer is a great time to enjoy some special, unique seasonal flavors at Milkjam Creamery, and there are a wide variety of gluten-free flavors available so that everyone can get in on the fun.

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