Key Insights

• You can get a rough idea of what your property is worth by looking at tax-assessed home values and using automated online estimates.
• Consulting with a REALTOR® is a great way to determine the value of your home and price it appropriately.
• Your REALTOR can share pricing insights that will help your house sell quickly and for top dollar.

Homeowners looking to sell may find that after years of building memories in a house or investing in home renovations, it can be difficult to put a price tag on a property. Here are some insights you can use to determine the best steps toward discovering your home’s true market value.

Estimated market value

Also known as a property’s tax-assessed home value, this figure indicates how much a home is worth through county tax records. Since this home value is based on historical sales data and mass appraisal techniques, the records can be up to two years old.

When listing your home on the market, you’ll want to get a more current and individualized assessment of your property before selling it for its estimated market value — especially if you’ve made updates like expanding the master bedroom or investing in a new pool.

Automated online estimates

Another way to assess the market value of a house is through an online market analysis. A computer-generated analysis compares your home to similar nearby properties that were recently sold, in order to estimate your home’s value.

The comparison is based on factors like home location, size, condition and amenities. Remember, these comparisons are generated by an algorithm, so they can only take into account the variables shown in the data, which may not give you a complete picture of your home’s true value.

When it comes down to determining your home’s value before selling, it’s wise to hire an agent who can provide a more detailed analysis.

In-home comparative market analysis by a professional

Although it may seem convenient to get a home value check via tax records or a quick online estimate, you’ll want to have an expert step foot in your home to provide a detailed and specific market analysis of your house.

After all, a computer-generated analysis can miss a lot of details — perhaps your house has special features, including:

• Original hardwood floors
• Remodeled kitchen
• A his-and-hers closet setup that’s straight out of HGTV
• Backyard on a preserve that can never be developed
• Location in an exceptional school district

Because every home varies — and even a small difference in location can make for a big variance in the market value of a house — it’s important to have a local expert evaluate the home in person so they can present you with their qualified evaluation.

Reach out to a licensed REALTOR® who knows your area to get an in-person home value estimate today.

Wait, what happens if an expert is saying my home is worth way less than the automated estimate?

Online estimates don't know the nitty-gritty details about your home's condition and its unique selling features, so they often offer inaccurate market values or broad ranges. In fact, these numbers can be off by anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

While we understand the frustration of hearing that your home is worth less than you assumed, it’s important to remember that the true value of your home is what a buyer will pay for it in today’s market. There are also recommendations your agent can make to help you attract multiple offers and get top dollar.

By working with a local expert who understands pricing trends and buyer demand in your area — rather than relying on a computer that can’t factor in local nuances — you’ll get a more realistic idea of what your home could sell for.

I’m not in a hurry to sell. Is it okay to list it for higher than the assessed value, and see if anyone “bites?”

Many would-be sellers share the mentality that they can list their homes high and see if they can score a high-bidding offer. If they aren’t in a hurry to sell, these homeowners believe they can lower the price tag down the road if the offers don’t flood in initially.

However, this theory is a common home seller myth. Why? Well, most buyer demand comes within the first two weeks of being on the market. During this initial listing phase, you can expect:

• Your home’s listing will gain attention online and through email alerts to potential buyers.
• Interested local buyers to tour your home at a showing or open house.

As a seller, you’ll want to optimize the initial buzz of your home listing. But if buyers are turned off by the price tag, you may find your home lagging on the market. Buyers may assume that something is wrong with the house or conclude that it’s overpriced.

The result? Sellers may receive even lower offers than they would have if they’d priced their homes fairly from the start.

Any other pricing tips or tricks?

You and your agent could consider listing your home for sale at a “round number” price point. It may sound a little odd but our analysis has found, for example, that homes listed for $250,000 sell faster than homes listed for $249,000. When it comes down to it, this home pricing trick could make a difference in how quickly you’ll get offers and how much you can net from potential buyers.

Key points and next steps

Whether you want to learn the market value of your home or you’re interested in learning more seller insights, get in touch today.

Key Insights

• As home inventory increases, so do open houses.
• Sellers should take extra precautions to appeal to large groups entering their homes at once.
• Buyers should respect each home they visit, while still doing the reconnaissance needed to determine if the house is a top contender.

Whether you're buying or selling, here are five tips to keep in mind as you plan your weekend open houses.

Open house tips for sellers

1. Get it objectively clean

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 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, pantries or garages 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, keeping a room or closet off-limits to them is unrealistic. If you usually cordon off areas from pets or children, be sure to remove the gates or barriers.

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 or sit nearby in your car during the open house. Buyers need to see the property uninterrupted. They may not be honest with themselves (or you) if you remain on site.

Remember, pets should be removed from your home during an open house. 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 warmer months, you can easily showcase 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. You can also display photos of seasonal outdoor spaces (like that swimming pool) so they can be appreciated by home visitors in the off-season—and picture themselves lying poolside.

If you live near parks or trails, consider printing 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 cabinet, be sure 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 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 also want to note the weather when you tour each home. 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, 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 arises over an inspection, appraisal or home fixture, it's best to have a friendly relationship to help diffuse issues and agree on compromises.

One caveat: If you are working with an agent already, you should talk to your agent 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 and insurance 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 can effectively negotiate. If the listing agent asks you any questions about your budget or interest, remain neutral. Keep in mind that the agent likely represents the seller and may share everything you say with them.

Good luck!

You’ll likely notice more balloons and signs advertising open houses on street corners now that you’re in the market. By following these basic rules, you'll be destined for open house success.

Ready to get started? Our agents host hundreds of open houses each weekend. If you're in the market for a new home, check out this weekend's open houses or reach out for help.

Key Insights

• Halloween decorations can be a lot of fun, but make sure you compromise with your neighbors and know your local rules before going all out.
• Keep safety at the forefront of your decor plans.
• If you’re planning on selling, stay family-friendly and understated for optimal appeal.

Halloween can have a lot of fun interpretations. Some people enjoy cute cartoon ghosts and loveable jack-o-lanterns; others walk on the spookier side with sinister skeletons and monsters galore; and then there’s the group that prefers the gore and guts of the haunting season.

Regardless of your Halloween aesthetic, it can be easy to overdo it on the cute and creepy decor. And if you are a person who goes for the jump-scare, that overzealous attitude could land you in some hot water with neighbors, passersby and even the authorities. So, how scary is too scary? And if it’s on your property, does anyone have the right to tell you to dial it back?

Spooky, or scary?

Some people really enjoy setting up the perfect haunted house. Last year, it was estimated that $3.9 billion would be spent on Halloween decorations alone. Some enthusiasts spend months planning and prepping, so it’s no surprise that with so much time, money and pride in the projects, criticism and complaints don’t go over well.

But before you start a neighborhood brawl, take a step back and put things in perspective: if your decorations are upsetting kids as they walk by, causing neighbors to relive painful memories of loved ones passing, keeping people awake at night or forcing the authorities to swing by to make sure everything is on the up and up, is it worth it?

If the answer is yes, consider a compromise. Maybe keep the more life-like items in the back and out of street view for consenting visitors to experience at their own risk, or turn off the fake blood fountain when the school bus is making its rounds.

Your house, your rules—mostly

There are really only a few sectors that can force you to take down your outdoor decor or decor that can be seen from the street (think windows, doors, etc.): your landlord (if you have one), your homeowner’s association (HOA) and your municipality. All three should have guidelines and ordinances for you to review so you can ensure your efforts don’t go to waste. Some things to look for:

• When can you put up decorations, and when do you have to take them down?
• Are there any light and/or sound rules in place?
• Do you need to acquire any permits for special effects or work?

If your props cause concerned citizens to call emergency services, be prepared to pay a fine or get a citation.

Make your house scary safe

Your biggest concern should always be safety, regardless of your decor aesthetic. Remember: you could be liable for any accidents and injuries caused on your property or because of your decor. Consider the risks that could be involved with your decorations, including:

• Visibility issues: Flashing lights or poor lighting can set the mood, but could also set you up for trips and falls. Make sure that nothing obscures walkways and public access points like sidewalks and streets. Think about how your special lighting and effects like fog machines and moveable props like haybales and billowing capes could get blown off course by a gust of wind and end up causing an accident.
• Tripping hazards: Pumpkin guts might make for great gore, but they are also extremely slippery and could cause guests to fall and potentially injure themselves. All walkways should be free of obstacles, easily navigated and well-lit to provide safe access to your property.
• Dangerous materials: It should go without saying that using a real chainsaw for your Chainsaw Massacre-themed yard is a bad idea when you have kids coming to your door. You should also consider how your other materials might pose a danger. Check that your fake blood won’t cause your neighbor’s dog to get sick if they take a lick or cause sewer drains any issues.

If you’re selling, skip the skeletons

Just like your home’s interior, buyers are looking for blank slates that have just enough staging to spark their imagination. That doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun, but tone it down and keep it family-friendly.

• Focus on fall over Halloween. Not only will this help the longevity of your decorations, it will ensure no one’s sensibilities are offended.
• No gore, blood, guts, or cobwebs. Stay far away from anything that could stain, cause property damage or make your home look less than pristine.
• Quality over quantity. Consider putting out just a few high-end decorations rather than a plethora of items that have seen better days.
• Check your produce. Rotting gourds and moldy cornstalks don’t impress anyone. Toss them once they start looking past their prime (even if you think you could still get a few more days out of them).
• Talk to your neighbors. While they are not obligated to help you, they might consider stowing some of their bloody designs during showings or turning off their special effects for a few hours so potential buyers can focus on your property.

Still not sure how to handle your Halloween decor? Reach out and talk about your home.

Key Insights

• Fall is a historically good time for sellers and buyers to make mutually beneficial transactions.
• Sellers can expect fewer–but more serious–offers during the fall.
• Motivated buyers will face less competition and more options this season.

While you’ve undoubtedly heard about spring market frenzy, you may not know what to expect when buying or selling a home in the fall. Many find that buying and selling in autumn is less stressful and allows them to use the winter to build a feeling of home.

Here are insights you can use as you consider buying or selling a home in Minnesota or western Wisconsin this fall.

Something’s in the air

Whether you’ve lived in the Midwest your whole life or recently moved here, you’ll notice that as the air and leaves get crisper, everything seems a little more relaxed than it did in the summer. (Even attending three soccer games on the weekend feels refreshing when you have a flannel blanket and a warm cup of coffee on the sidelines.)

Similarly, fall just feels like a great time to start over in a new home. Many buyers love moving into a new home in the fall because it’s the right time for a fresh start. Then, you get to spend your winter ‘nesting’ and really making a home your own. If you buy in the spring, you’re more likely to be outside and less likely to paint, decorate or organize for the long term during those first few months of homeownership.

Digging into the numbers

Fall may feel like the right time to move, but what do the housing market numbers say?

Annual national market trends show that since 1999, the most popular months for home sales are May, June, July and August; comparatively, November, December, January and February tend to be the slowest months for real estate activity, according to information published by the National Association of REALTORS®. Generally speaking, real estate activity moderates in autumn months as renters stay put and families with children avoid changing school districts mid-year.

While spring and summer are known as the peak times in the market, the housing market doesn’t hibernate when the leaves start to turn colors. In these more moderate sales months, motivated buyers and sellers tend to work toward straightforward, mutually beneficial transactions.

What fall sellers should expect

Sellers should keep in mind that they probably won’t see the lightning-fast sales that were prevalent a few years ago. Currently, the average home in the Twin Cities is listed for 34 days before the right seller is found. However, sellers can also expect to get a good value for their property. This August, the average seller recouped at least 97% of their original list price, according to data provided by the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OF MINNESOTA, INC. for the 16-county area in August 2024.

In the fall, open houses and showings are usually attended by serious buyers. This could mean that you see less in-person traffic than you would if you listed in April, but you’ll also host fewer “looky-loos” who are unlikely to make an offer. Selling in the fall could also mean a faster path to closing, as your buyers likely have a reason to be entering the market at this time and may be motivated to get settled before the holidays.

Remember, today’s buyers are discerning and have high standards. Sellers should work to build curb appeal and fix up the interior of their home to show pride of ownership before listing their homes for sale.

What fall buyers should expect

Housing inventory continues to grow, giving buyers more options and more confidence. Because fall isn’t typically a busy home-buying season, buyers who attend open houses will see that they are less crowded than in the spring and summer months.

This could mean that you have less competition, or it could mean the competition is fierce, with a small pool of equally motivated buyers. Your REALTOR^® will provide deep insights on what to expect given the inventory and desirability of your selected neighborhood and price point.

Thinking of getting started?

As you can see, the fall is about more than pumpkin-flavored treats and bagging up that ever-growing leaf pile. If you’re thinking of buying a home or are ready to put your property on the market, reach out to get started.

Key Insights

• There are many smart products available to perform different tasks around your home — and some have gotten better at integrating with each other.
• Consider what problems you’re trying to solve when shopping for smart home technology.
• Investing in smart home tech can lead to energy savings in the long run.

For years, buzz has been building about “smart homes,” which are outfitted with devices and systems that automate and optimize based on the homeowner’s preferences.

Plenty of smart home devices — like programmable thermostats — have taken off, and are becoming more integrated and affordable. But with so many products and options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which will benefit your home, and which are the “shiny objects” of the moment.

Here are insights you can use if you are hoping to purchase smart home devices for your house.

Note: Edina Realty is neither endorsing nor recommending these products. Please check with product retailers to verify current product prices.

Hubs: Amazon Echo, Apple iHome and Google Home

These three speech-activated smart home devices can respond to hundreds of requests and help you automate basic tasks throughout the day. Their healthy competition to control the marketplace means you get to take advantage of a growing list of integrations, and their time on the market has allowed older versions to be sold at reduced prices.

The benefit of these hubs is that they act as the epicenter of your smart devices where you can control anything from your refrigerator temperature to your home’s security system, entertainment streaming and more. Many other smart home products can pair with these hubs so you can access that tech through your AI assistant, as well as the product’s app.

Top products for safety

If you’re on a budget, be sure to limit your purchases to products that solve a real problem in your household. Here are some top-rated products that help with issues of safety.

Smart locks

If dozens of people have your garage code — from the nanny to your kids’ friends — how safe is your home, really? Rather than giving keys or an entry code to your house cleaner, the math tutor or even your houseguests, you can fully control entry using smart locks for every party that enters and exits your home.

There are a number of options out there to fit your preference like fingerprint ID, keyless codes and the power to unlock your door through an app. Some even integrate video technology like security cameras or a video doorbell to show you who’s at your door and give you the option to unlock a door or open a garage. Many also have the option to work with your security system to auto-lock at certain times of night, alert you if a door was left open and more.

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms

Two-in-one smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors are easy to install and have an in-person alarm as well as text alerts if the alarm goes off. The peace-of-mind of getting alerts when you’re not home is worth the price, and some will even send an alert to your phone if the battery is running low.

Security cameras

Recent advances in security camera integration have made smart home technology even easier. From video doorbells to outdoor entry point surveillance and even indoor monitors for infants’ rooms, cameras have become paired with other tools to take the guesswork out of home security.

For instance, products paired with a hub could allow you to get a message on your phone about a fire in your kitchen, a camera view to show you what’s going on, a security system to call the fire department, a smart lock function that would allow you to open the door when they arrive, all while you’re miles away.

Top products for efficiency

Part of what makes a device “smart” is that it can help you minimize energy use in your home. Below are a few top products that will pay for themselves over time.

Smart light bulbs and switches

Worried you’ve left a light on, or too lazy to get out of bed to turn off the bathroom light you errantly left on? There are two products that can help you solve this issue.

Smart light switches can require installation but are then controlled by a smart home hub or your smartphone. Because it’s controlled by Wi-Fi, you can turn the switch on and off even when you’re not home.

Updating every light switch can get pricey, so you can also purchase smart light bulbs, which can be controlled via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Wi-Fi-controlled bulbs are more expensive and generally require you to purchase a larger system. There are also Bluetooth options, but you’ll need to be at home to turn them on and off.

Smart plugs

We all have that one outlet — the one connected to the clothes iron, the curling iron or the coffee pot — that we fret over when we’re at work. Or what about the outlet connected to the Sony Playstation, which is likely using up “vampire energy” while you’re away?

While replacing every outlet in your home would be a significant investment, upgrading your main problem outlets can be an inexpensive, effective way to bring down your energy use (and anxiety). Being able to use voice commands through your hub or going on an app make them incredibly convenient and easy to use. They’re also handy during the holiday season for turning holiday lights off and on without having to don a coat or kneel behind a pine branch.

Programmable thermostat

Smart thermostats were one of the first players in the smart home market. They can be controlled from near and far, and they learn your preferences over time to help you save money and keep your home comfortable. They also have alerts for when filters need to be changed and maintenance done to keep your system working at its best.

Smart appliances

New home appliances now have Wi-Fi capabilities built in, allowing you to start the oven, run the dishwasher, or give the laundry an extra 10-minute drying cycle. These features are accessible through voice commands using your hub and an app on your phone. For busy professionals trying to manage a home, these features can be great time savers.

Smart homes keep getting smarter

With new tech products emerging every day, it’s safe to assume that smart home technology is here to stay. So if you’re trying to decide which smart home options are best for you, remember to consider your lifestyle, your challenges and your goals before stocking up on the latest gadgets.

If you’re feeling like a smarter move might be to buy or sell your home, reach out today to plan your next steps.

Key Insights

• Attracting multiple offers on a home is one way sellers can set themselves up for the best closing price.
• Multiple offers don’t come uninvited. Sellers should optimize their listing and prepare their negotiating skills to score big on their home sale.
• Timing and original listing price are two of the most important factors sellers should take into account when trying to draw in multiple offers.

As a seller, you’ll want to score the best offer on your property. By attracting multiple offers, you’ll be able to accept a final offer that nets you the best terms and the highest closing price.

Use these tips to draw in multiple offers and work toward the net-pay closing day you’ve been dreaming of.

How to attract multiple offers on your home

1. Hire a REALTOR®

If you’re looking to draw in multiple offers, it’s important to hire a REALTOR who knows the local market and who understands how to drum up buyer interest. When searching for the perfect agent, try interviewing multiple REALTORS so you can pick the one that feels like the best fit.

Remember, REALTORS are the experts helping you sell your home, so ask them about the entire process, and why they’re the best person to help you close quickly and for top dollar.

Specifically, you can ask:

• How often their clients’ homes sell for listing price or above.
• How they handle negotiations and counter offers.
• If they can make strategic recommendations for how to improve your home to sell for a higher price.
• What they recommend to get the most attention for your home, such as offering broker compensation to attract more potential buyers
• What they do to ensure the property gets online and in-person traffic in the first few weeks after it’s listed on the market.

2. Success in staging

One important recommendation your agent might make is to stage your home, which is a process where you optimize (and neutralize) the space to make it more appealing to a wide variety of buyers.

You may be wondering — is it normal that sellers put money INTO their house in order to sell it? And the answer is a resounding “yes.” You can boost your resale value by making small, but impactful changes like new carpet, fresh paint, modern landscaping, staging and more.

3. Timing is important

After you’ve staged your home, it’s time to list! The first two weeks after posting a home on the market are the most critical for sellers, because buyer interest is at an all-time high during this period.

Talk with your agent to optimize your success when listing. You can plan ahead to accommodate for:

• More showings
• An open house or open house weekend
• A broker open, which is where an agent holds an exclusive house open for other agents, who look around on behalf of their clients
• The best time to sell – according to your circumstances

4. Determine a “sweet spot” price

Although you’ll want to set yourself up to attract a great price, make sure you don’t price your house too high. Even in today’s market, where sellers hold an advantage, pricing too high can mean more time on market and fewer offers coming in -- which ultimately could result in a lower sale price.

Be sure to work with your agent to compare your property to similar homes that have sold recently in your area. It will work to your advantage to come up with a “sweet spot” listing price — one that is not so high that it turns buyers off, and not so low that you receive a series of low-end bids that you do not wish to consider.

5. Consider offering buyer incentives

You might consider offering to pay the buyer’s broker compensation as a way to open up your property to the most potential buyers. Many buyers don’t have the cash available to pay both a down payment and their real estate agent, and the offer of the buyer’s broker payout makes buying your home an option for them.

You may also be competing with other sellers who are offering a buyer’s broker payout, making their home available to more buyers, and when more buyers compete for a property, they make offers with terms and prices that are often more attractive to sellers.

How to negotiate multiple offers like a pro

You’ve put in the effort to set your home up for a successful listing. Now it’s time to handle the multiple offers. Here’s how it all works:

• Your REALTOR will receive offers through buyers’ agents.
• You and your REALTOR will consider the advantages and disadvantages of each offer.
• Your agent will support you as you assess each bid.

At first, you might be drawn to simply accept the highest price — and when all other variables are the same, that’s an easy decision. But! It’s unlikely that everything else will be identical within competing offers. And in some cases, non-monetary advantages could mean more to you than a few hundred dollars.

For example, you may want to accept an offer with:

• A flexible closing date — depending on where you are moving or if you have a "Plan B" housing option.
• Fewer (or no) contingencies.
• More down at closing, pre-approved buyers or other factors that indicate the mortgage will be approved.
• Closing costs that will be paid in full by the buyer.

It’s possible that after receiving multiple offers, you will be able to select one of the original offers based on their bid or other factors. In this case, you will work with your agent to sign the purchase agreement and proceed to the closing table.

However, if you would like to see if you can win an even higher price or more favorable closing terms than you received in round one, you can work with your agent to propose different terms, which is called making a counteroffer.

How to navigate counteroffers

There are various approaches to see if you can receive a higher closing price or better terms than those offered by the buyers in the first round of bids. For example, you can sign a counteroffer with specific terms and send it to a select buyer you’d like to work with. If the buyer agrees to your terms and signs the counteroffer, you’ve got a deal. The buyer could also respond by submitting their own counteroffer.

Alternatively, you can work with multiple buyers by asking some or all to come back with their best and final offer. That means that they may increase their initial bid, and/or make the sale easier on the seller — including by removing contingencies, offering to pay full closing costs or offering a closing date that is best for the seller.

When navigating counteroffers, you’ll want to work closely with your REALTOR to develop a strategy that will maximize your sale. Your REALTOR will also help you select a buyer who is not only coming in with the best bid and terms, but who is also likely to be approved for the final loan. Your REALTOR can help you weigh the pros and cons until you determine the buyer whose bid you’d like to accept.

Get in touch

New listings are a hot commodity right now and sellers with desirable properties can sell quickly and with multiple offers on the table. If you’re ready to make a move on your selling journey, reach out and we’ll make a plan for attracting multiple offers.

Key insights:

• Having a clean, tidy home is linked to better mental health and enjoyment of your space.
• There are hundreds of decluttering and organizing methods; find one that matches your timeframe and fits your lifestyle.
• Remember, you don’t need to purchase anything fancy to get your home in order now.
• Gather your family or friends to get involved with decluttering too.

Simplifying your belongings, decluttering your life and organizing your possessions for maximum appeal and use has gone beyond cleaning up and has become a culture with books, TV shows, podcasts, social accounts and apps. Whether you’re prepping to sell, downsizing, freeing up your space, or looking to relieve stress and anxiety and save money, having a clean and organized home is shown to improve your mental health and be well worth the effort.

But sorting through the best methods for decluttering can be overwhelming on its own, and finding one that best motivates you and works within your lifestyle can be tricky. To help, we’ve combed through the latest decluttering trends and picked our top eight proven methods for getting rid of items weighing you down and getting organized so that you can live in a space you truly love.

1. KonMari Method

Ideal for: those who have a hard time letting go of items.

The KonMari Method of tidying up focuses on keeping the items that “spark joy” in your life and letting go of the rest.

Here’s how:

1. Commit to tidying up your home, office, etc.
2. Picture your ideal lifestyle.
3. Discard items prior to organizing.
4. Begin to tidy by category of items, e.g. clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous items and sentimental items.
5. Declutter these categories in order.
6. Ask yourself, “Does this item spark joy?” If not, it’s time to thank the item and let it go.

2. Ski Slope Method

Ideal for: those who get overwhelmed by the amount of work.

If decluttering feels like staring down a black diamond on new skis, the Ski Slope Method is for you. Instead of taking the room as a whole, this system has you going side to side across the room, similar to how you would ski down a steep slope.

The Ski Slope Method allows you to focus on small sections of space at a time, preventing you from feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work to do and offering a structured process. It also ensures that you’re being very thorough in your cleaning and organizing.

Ideal for: those who are looking to get seriously organized.

The Core 4 Method turns your decluttering and organizing into four simple steps:

1. Clear out: remove every single item from the space
2. Categorize: sort items into categories (professionals suggest creating zones with labels or post-its to help keep things organized)
3. Cut out: as you sort, declutter unwanted/unneeded items into toss, sell, donate piles
4. Contain: sort all your items into bins and containers and put them away

The beauty of this system is that the decluttering process is also the organizing process. By keeping like-items together and creating dedicated zones for categories, it’ll be easy to find what you need and keep your space organized in the future.

4. 20/10 Organizing Method

Ideal for: those who have trouble staying focused.

Whether you’re dedicating a day to getting your house together or wanting to tackle the problem in small steps, the 20/10 Organizing Method allows you to keep focused on the task at hand without feeling overwhelmed. The idea is simple: spend 20 minutes cleaning, organizing and decluttering, and then take a 10-minute break.

Not only will this break down the process into easy bite-size pieces, it will allow you to step away and take care of other things without feeling discouraged or losing momentum. It’s also fun to see how much you can get down in that time!

5. Swedish Death Cleaning

Ideal for: those who want to downsize and simplify.

Swedish Death Cleaning is not as intimidating as it may sound. In fact, this method of cleaning is based on a minimalist approach that emphasizes comfort while letting go of belongings that are no longer needed or valued.

First adopted by Swedish people, this method encourages the clearing of your unwanted or unused items so that eventually others won’t have to do it for you. Although it’s common to initiate this type of cleaning around middle age, it’s always a great time to begin tidying! Here are all the details on the Swedish Death Challenge, so you can start to clean up your house.

6. The Four Box Method

Ideal for: those looking for a quick, easy process.

All you need to begin the Four Box Method of tidying up is four boxes! This simple method of cleaning involves using four boxes labeled:

• Donate
• Trash
• Relocate
• Storage

Once you have your boxes set up and labeled, go to a room or closet in your home and begin sorting your items. When everything has been placed in a box, you’ll move the items to their new location and move on to the next room with empty boxes ready to be filled.

This method is great for those who might have decluttering anxiety. Because you have options on what to do with each item, you don’t feel as pressured to make a stark “keep or trash” decision.

7. 12-12-12 Challenge

Ideal for: those who don’t have time or want to declutter over time.

Similar to the Four Box Method, the 12-12-12 challenge prompts you to find:

• 12 items to toss
• 12 items to donate
• 12 items to put away

This is a quick and creative way to declutter your home without the commitment of going through an entire room. So, whether you and your partner have a friendly cleaning competition or you incentivize your kiddos to complete their portion of tidying, you can get the entire household to join you on this cleaning feat.

The best part of the 12-12-12 challenge is that you can do it as often as you like — you can try it every day for two weeks to start, and then less often as your home becomes less cluttered.

8. Packing Party

Ideal for: those who are serious about having a fresh slate.

Perhaps the most aggressive approach to decluttering, having a Packing Party is great for those who are ready for drastic change (or, for those who are actually moving). This strategy has you packing up everything you own as if you were moving, then removing the items you use over a set period of time (most often a month) and getting rid of the rest.

The appeal of this process is that you’re approaching decluttering differently. Instead of evaluating each item’s place in your life, you’re looking at your life and choosing the items you need. This time-consuming process can make you feel unsettled, but those who commit come out swearing it’s changed their lives.

Ready to tidy up?

Whether you’re on a mission to get organized or you’d like to get your home in tip-top shape before you list it for sale this year, these eight methods of tidying up will help you get a jump start on your cleaning process. For additional guidance on home sale preparation, reach out.

Key Insights

• As buyers search online for available properties, they may find themselves asking, “Do I need a REALTOR^®?”
• From understanding the market and the buying process to negotiations and regulations, there are dozens of benefits to hiring a real estate agent.
• When you hire a REALTOR, you are hiring an advocate with a fiduciary duty to you and your best interests.

Do I need a real estate agent?

Now that anyone can search for homes online and follow up-to-the-minute market inventory alerts, many buyers find themselves asking, “Do I need a REALTOR when buying a home?”

The reality is that there are dozens of benefits to using a REALTOR. From in-depth market insights, negotiation and bidding expertise to access to pre-list inventory, buyers will often find that hiring a REALTOR is a necessity for protecting their interests and successfully securing a home.

REALTOR advantage #1: Market knowledge

Real estate agents spend hours upon hours touring homes for sale each week, which means they have in-depth insights that you simply can’t find online. Because they know what homes are selling for — not just what they are listed for — one benefit of using a REALTOR is that they can help you find the “sweet spot” that will allow you to purchase a home that matches your price range and timeline.

Furthermore, they have access to information and data available only to real estate professionals – and the expertise to interpret what it means and how to use it. For example, how “days on market” impact what a buyer might offer on a home.

REALTOR advantage #2: Access to homes coming on the market soon

Real estate agents are natural networkers who love to talk houses, and they often clue each other in on “pre-list homes,” which are listings that will be coming on the market in the upcoming weeks. Agent-to-agent connections are the number one way properties are successfully bought and sold – 90%* of Edina Realty’s transactions include both a buyer's agent and a seller’s agent.

When you work with an Edina Realty REALTOR, you’ll benefit from a network of more than 2,000 agents who live and work in every community across Minnesota and western Wisconsin — and keep each other up-to-date on upcoming homes for sale. You’ll also have access to NetworkONE, an online, pre-market listing network that gives clients a premarket advantage. As demand continues to outpace the supply of homes for sale, and buyers are competing over a shortage of homes for sale, and having insights on pre-list homes can be a major advantage.

REALTOR advantage #3: Bidding and negotiations

Because today’s inventory is so low, many homes are going into multiple offers — and buyers who don’t hire a REALTOR tend to struggle when it comes to finding a winning bidding strategy.

Real estate agents have acute market knowledge and intel on local sales numbers that go well beyond the local sales numbers the general public can find online. Because they live and breathe home prices and sales, REALTORS can help buyers determine how much to bid so they win the sale without going thousands of dollars over the second bid. Furthermore, they understand that price isn’t the only thing that sellers will negotiate. There are many terms a buyer can negotiate to stand out and win the home.

REALTOR advantage #4: All those little details

It can be easy to spot a sagging roof or a crack in the foundation, but there are thousands of little details that most buyers don’t know to look out for when touring a home. If you find yourself asking, “Do I need a real estate agent to buy a house?” then you may also want to consider how much you know about:

• Radon laws and regulations
• Plumbing, sump pumps and septic systems
• Water or storm damage
• Wiring, gas and electrical issues
• Zoning laws and contractor regulations
• Homeowner’s associations (HOAs)
• Liens
• Required inspections and disclosures

Simply put, the benefits of hiring a REALTOR often come out when they illuminate hidden flaws in a seemingly perfect property and help you avoid pitfalls.

REALTOR advantage #5: Trusted partners and resources

Your agent can recommend trusted partners in mortgage, title, insurance, construction, home inspections and more. They can also guide you to use secure systems for closing to help keep your assets and finances safe.

Your agent is also an ongoing resource after you buy your home. They can answer questions and recommend home improvements or simply provide advice and resources for your homeownership needs.

Ready to get started?

A home purchase is likely your largest financial decision – not to mention one of the most exciting (and sometimes stressful) experiences of your life. If you’re ready to connect with an agent and start the home-buying process, reach out to get started.

*Based on closed sales data (excluding new construction sales) from Edina Realty for 5.1.2023 – 4.31.2024 in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Key Insights

• Closing can be an exciting, but stressful process that can go more smoothly the better prepared you are.
• The closing process is different for buyers and sellers, and each party will need to bring different things to closing.
• Working with a REALTOR^Ⓡ will ensure that you’re hitting all the marks on your closing checklist.

Closing on a house checklist steps + what to bring

Buying and selling a home can be a stressful process, and closing day can be especially nerve-wracking. Luckily, there are ways to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible with this closing checklist and working with a trusted title company like Edina Realty Title.*

This article will better prepare you for closing day by helping you understand the closing process and what to expect. Our real estate closing checklist will ensure you have everything you need so you can go to the closing table confidently.

What to do before closing on a house

It's crucial for both buyers and sellers to be well-prepared for closing. This will help ensure a smooth transaction and prevent any last-minute hiccups that could occur from not doing the proper work that’s required prior to closing.

While the process varies depending on whether you’re the buyer or the seller, it’s equally important for both parties to do everything they can to prepare for the closing and prevent lost time during the actual closing process.

Things to do before closing on a house if you’re a buyer

• Schedule inspections and appraisals
• Do a final walk-through
• Review your closing disclosure
• Ensure all contingencies are taken care of
• Finalize financing
• Get homeowner’s insurance
• Determine how you’d like to pay for the down payment, closing costs, taxes, etc. (a certified check or cashier’s check works, but you may also do a wire transfer in advance)
• Assemble all documents and items needed for the closing table
• Electronically sign any closing documents you can
• Contact the closing agent for any specific instructions (note: if you have a real estate agent, they’ll do this for you!)
• Check-in with your REALTOR (and attorney, if you have one) to see if there are any last-minute items you need to attend to

Things to do before closing on a house if you’re a seller

• Take care of contingencies
• Work with the buyer’s inspectors and appraisers
• Complete any repairs you may have agreed to perform
• Perform a title search
• Inform utility companies of a final service date
• Find out closing costs (transfer tax, escrow fees, title insurance, etc.) and prepare funds via cashier’s check or wire transfer
• Plan your move
• Electronically sign any closing documents you can
• Contact your lender to start the mortgage payoff process (your title company will likely do this)
• Connect with your agent to see if there’s anything else you need to do before closing

Note: don’t cancel your homeowner’s insurance policy until the property has been officially transferred

An important note about cyber scams

Cyber fraud in the real estate industry is on the rise. It’s important that all parties of the transaction, including buyers and sellers, are aware of the risks. These fraud attempts are pervasive, convincing and constantly evolving. Many sophisticated parties have been duped. Prevention is key—always work directly with your lender and ask your agent if you have any questions.

If you receive wire instructions by email, do not send money to that account and contact your lender immediately. Edina Realty Title will never send wire information via email, ever!

What happens on the day of closing? House closing checklist

Closing often takes place at a title company. And while buyers will most likely need to attend to sign original loan documents, the sellers might be able to complete their house closing checklist online. There are also situations where the seller’s real estate agent can hand over any completed, signed paperwork in place of the sellers.

Depending on the mix of people who attend—the closing agent, buyer, buyer’s agent, seller and seller’s agent—the closing process might vary in terms of length and order, but there are a few things you can expect to check off on your closing day checklist.

1. Provide documents: The closing agent will make copies of your ID and other important documents like your proof of homeowners insurance and a copy of the purchase agreement.
2. Set up escrow account: Depending on the terms of your mortgage, you may need to establish an escrow account to hold money to cover home costs like property taxes and homeowners insurance.
3. Transfer required funds: Hand over your cashier’s check or proof of wire transfer.
4. Review and sign documents: You’ll be asked to sign a number of important documents—this will take up a big portion of the closing process. You can help move things along by reviewing and electronically signing any documents you can before the closing date.
5. Receive/give keys: The official handoff! You’ll receive the keys, codes and garage door openers of your new home.

Things to bring to closing checklist for buyers

Closing is an exciting time for homebuyers—you’ve probably been dreaming of this moment since you first started searching for your new home and it’s the last step before you can start making the home yours. But with all that excitement probably comes some nerves and anxiety.

One way to lessen those fears is to feel prepared by triple-checking this closing checklist for buyers. Make sure you are constantly checking all communications (a title company like Edina Realty Title will reach out with reminders) and keeping in touch with your REALTOR so you don’t miss any last-minute changes or requests for items to add to the following buyers' checklist for closing.

• A valid photo ID
• Your social security number
• A checkbook
• Proof of homeowners insurance
• A copy of the contract with the seller
• Certified check, cashier’s check or receipt of wire transfer for the downpayment, closing costs, taxes, etc.
• Any other materials requested by the bank
• Home inspection reports
• Closing Disclosure

Things to bring to closing checklist for sellers

Selling a home can cause a great mix of emotions. Maybe you’re excited to start the next chapter of your life, but you might also be feeling sentimental about the memories you’re leaving behind. Sellers are probably also very busy getting their home packed up, repaired and ready for its new occupants.

Reduce the amount of stress by taking one thing off your list and gathering all the items from this checklist for closing on a home and having it ready to go so you aren’t scrambling trying to find what to bring to closing hours before you’re scheduled to close.

• A valid photo ID
• Keys, codes, garage door openers, etc.
• Cashier’s check for closing fees
• Property deed
• Property tax receipts
• Home warranty information, if applicable
• Personal checkbook for incidentals or incorrect calculations
• Proof of repairs

Reach out to Edina Realty for answers to your closing questions

Closing can be a stressful time, and a seasoned REALTOR and reputable title agency can be your biggest asset and advocate during the closing process. Whether you’re just starting your search, ready to list or trying to find a closing on a house checklist, an Edina Realty agent and Edina Realty Title closer can help you move forward.

Reach out for more expert advice on what to bring to a house closing and the answers to hundreds of other questions you might have about buying and selling a home.

*Edina Realty Title is an affiliate of Edina Realty. See Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure Statement

Key Insights

• The price of your home can make a big difference in the success of your sale.
• Home equity is up, buyers are competing, and homes are in short supply.
• From repairs to inspections, there are things you can do now to make for a quicker sale later.

Across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, buyer demand and home prices continue to rise while the supply of homes for sale is growing at a slower pace. This mismatch of supply and demand creates a market that gives sellers a significant advantage, especially at lower price points.

It’s clear this summer will continue to be a sellers’ market in most areas. Many of today’s homeowners have record-high equity in their homes, so if you’ve been considering putting your home on the market in the coming months, here is what you need to know to move forward and attract the highest price possible to take advantage of today’s market.

Price your home right the first time

The majority of showing activity occurs within the first two weeks after a home is listed for sale on the market. By pricing your home competitively, you may get more showings and bids upfront – and multiple offers can mean a higher closing price.

While it might be tempting to price your house high, the reality is that if you price your home too high, the listing may suffer from low traffic and fewer bids. Plus, when a buyer sees a home has been on the market for months, they are more likely to underbid in hopes of securing a bargain. To get the best offer, you’ll want to price your home right from day one.

Together, you and your REALTOR® can work to assess your home’s current market value by taking into account:

• The property’s condition and any upgrades you’ve made
• The prices of recently sold properties nearby
• Local market trends and buyer demand

Give buyers what they want

We already talked about getting the price right from the start, but other factors will also influence your home sale's success. Common pitfalls might include:

• An unwelcoming exterior: Consult our curb appeal checklist for help.
• An interior that feels too “lived in”: Stage your home to appeal to buyers.
• A home that needs major updates: See what home improvements pay off, and which to skip.
• Too much stuff: Declutter and increase your storage.

Need to add appeal on a small budget? Focus on these updates so your home stands out:

• Clean and declutter
• Put a fresh coat of paint on the walls (neutral colors are best)
• Make minor repairs like fixing drips, squeaks, stains, scratches and dents
• Swap dated light fixtures and hardware for more modern pieces
• Refresh your mulch and landscaping

Be prepared for inspections

Some cities in Minnesota (around the Twin Cities metro) require a home inspection before the home can be sold. Often referred to as the “Truth-in-Sale-of-Housing” or TISH inspection, the TISH report usually includes a list of fixes sellers will need to complete; it’s focused on risks to life or health that might include plumbing elements and smoke detectors.

When considering offers from buyers, you may see contingencies like a buyer making an offer contingent upon it passing a home inspection. It’s important to understand what a buyer’s home inspection might include so you can prepare in advance.

Stay plugged in

An informed seller is an empowered seller. Whether it’s your first time selling, you’re helping a family member or trying to time a sale and a purchase, your REALTOR can play an instrumental part in getting the price and terms you want as you move forward.

Reach out to begin the process of selling your home for top dollar.