• Water Damage or Stains — Look for discoloration on ceilings, walls, or around windows/baseboards (leaks, roof issues, poor grading).
• Mold or Musty Smells — Especially in basements, bathrooms, or near HVAC vents—mold remediation can cost $5,000–$20,000+.
• Cracked or Uneven Flooring — Settling foundation, water damage, or poor subfloor—major structural red flag.
• Doors/Windows That Stick or Don’t Close Properly — Indicates foundation settling or framing issues.
• Outdated Electrical — Old knob-and-tube wiring, overloaded panels, or ungrounded outlets—expensive and dangerous to update.
• Plumbing Issues — Low water pressure, slow drains, rust stains, or visible leaks under sinks.
• Roof Condition — Missing shingles, curling, or dark streaks—replacements often run $10,000–$20,000.
• HVAC Age & Condition — Units over 15–20 years old may need replacement soon ($5,000–$12,000).
• Poor Insulation/Ventilation — High energy bills or condensation on windows—leads to mold and higher utility costs.
• Structural Cracks — Especially in foundation walls or brick/stone exteriors—can signal major settling.

The Power of an Experienced Agent & Inspector You don’t need to be an expert—but you need one on your side. A good real estate agent spots red flags during showings and helps you weigh them:

• Is it minor (easy fix)?
• Is it major (deal-breaker)?
• Is it negotiable (seller repair credit)?

When you find a home you love, the home inspection confirms or uncovers issues. A thorough inspector can save you tens of thousands by identifying problems early. The Bottom Line Buying a home is emotional—but don’t let emotions blind you to red flags. Spot them early, get professional input, and protect yourself from costly surprises. The right home is worth the wait; the wrong one isn’t worth the regret. If you’re ready to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping buyers avoid pitfalls and secure the right property, I’ll guide you through every step with honesty and expertise. Ready to buy smart and avoid red flags in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s find your perfect home—without the hidden headaches.

• Remodel the kitchen
• Update bathrooms
• Paint walls
• Install hardwood floors
• Add a deck or landscaping

But you cannot change:

• The school district
• Proximity to shopping, parks, restaurants, and amenities
• Commute time to work
• Neighborhood safety and community vibe

These fixed elements affect your daily life, your family’s future, and your home’s long-term resale value far more than cosmetic changes ever will. Real-Life Examples That Prove the Point

• A buyer chooses a beautiful home but ends up with a 45-minute commute each way. After a few months, the stress becomes unbearable—they regret the purchase.
• Parents prioritize a top-rated school district for their child with special needs or athletic/academic talent, even if the house needs updates. The right school makes the home a better long-term fit.
• A family picks a home in a walkable neighborhood near parks and shops, even though it’s smaller—they end up happier and more connected to the community.

When you buy with resale in mind (and you should—this is an investment), location drives future value. Homes in desirable school districts, convenient locations, and strong communities appreciate faster and sell quicker. How to Make Location the Priority in Your Search

• List your non-negotiables first: School district, commute time, proximity to work, parks, shopping, safety.
• Rank them honestly: Decide what you can compromise on (e.g., smaller square footage) vs. what you absolutely cannot (e.g., a bad school district or 90-minute commute).
• Work with an agent who knows the area: A local expert in Lakeville real estate, Apple Valley homes, Eagan properties, Burnsville, or Bloomington can show you neighborhoods that match your priorities—not just houses.

The Bottom Line The house is important—but location is often more important. You can remodel the home; you can’t remodel the neighborhood, school district, or commute. The more you consider these fixed factors upfront, the happier you’ll be long-term—and the better your investment will perform. If you’re ready to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping buyers find the right location and home, I’ll help you prioritize what truly matters and avoid costly regrets. Ready to buy smart in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s find the perfect fit for your family and future.

One of the biggest myths holding back home buyers in the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area (especially the south metro: Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington) is the belief that you must put 20% down to buy a home. That’s simply not true anymore. The Evolution of Down Payment Requirements

• Early 1900s: Buyers often put 50% down and financed the rest for short terms.
• Post-World War II: 20% down became the norm.
• Today (2026): Low-down-payment options make homeownership accessible without draining your savings.

You can still put 20% down (or more) if you want to—it lowers your monthly payment, builds equity faster, and acts like a forced savings plan. But the most important benefit for many buyers is avoiding PMI (private mortgage insurance).What Is PMI and How Much Does It Cost? If your down payment is less than 20% (or you have less than 20% equity), most lenders require PMI to protect their investment. After the 2008 crash, PMI was expensive—often hundreds per month. That’s changed significantly. Today, PMI can be as low as $30–$100/month on many loans, depending on your credit, loan size, and lender. Always talk to your loan officer for exact numbers—don’t assume it’s a deal-breaker. The Benefits of 20% Down (Even If It’s Not Required)

• You look stronger in a multiple-offer situation (especially on foreclosures or competitive listings).
• Lower monthly payments and faster equity build-up.
• No PMI = more money in your pocket every month.

Low-Down-Payment Options Available in 2026You don’t need to drain your savings to buy a home. Here are the most common programs:

• Conventional loans: As low as 3% down if you qualify.
• FHA loans: 3.5% down (great for first-time buyers).
• VA loans: 0% down for eligible veterans.
• USDA/Rural loans: 0% down in qualifying areas.

The key is affordability. Know your comfortable monthly payment, factor in taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and PMI (if applicable), and choose the down payment that fits your budget and goals. The Bottom Line Don’t let outdated myths stop you from buying. You can enter the market with a low down payment and still position yourself as a strong buyer. The right loan officer and real estate agent will guide you through the numbers so you buy confidently. If you’re ready to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping buyers navigate the Minnesota home buying process, I’ll connect you with trusted lenders and make sure you understand every cost and option. Ready to crack the down payment code and buy smart in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s get you pre-approved and prepared.

That Can Derail Your Mortgage One of the most common—and completely avoidable—mistakes home buyers make is committing credit score sins during the mortgage process. These seemingly innocent actions can lower your score, increase your interest rate, or even cause your loan to be denied just days before closing. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe. How Mortgage Lenders Evaluate You When you apply for a mortgage, the lender takes a snapshot of your finances at that moment. They review:

• Credit score
• W-2s and income verification
• Work history
• Assets and savings
• Debt-to-income ratio

Everything is checked again during underwriting—often with a second credit pull shortly before closing. Any sudden changes can raise red flags. The 4 Biggest Credit Score Sins to Avoid During the Home-Buying Process Do not do any of these while your loan is in progress:

1. Open new lines of credit — No new credit cards, no new lines of credit at a bank or credit union.
2. Finance a new car — Buying or leasing a vehicle adds new debt and lowers your score.
3. Take out any new loans — Personal loans, student loan refinancing, or any other borrowing.
4. Buy big-ticket items on credit — No new furniture, appliances, or electronics on credit cards or financing plans.

These actions can:

• Drop your credit score (new accounts = hard inquiries + higher credit utilization)
• Increase your debt-to-income ratio
• Trigger lender concerns about your financial stability

I’ve seen buyers lose their dream home two weeks before closing because they opened a new credit card or financed furniture. It’s heartbreaking and completely preventable. When Is It Safe to Make These Changes? After closing—once your loan funds and the home is officially yours. You can then buy a car, furniture, or open new credit lines without risking the mortgage. The Bottom Line Be smart during the mortgage process. Protect your credit score and debt-to-income ratio until after closing. A small mistake can cost you thousands in higher rates or even the entire loan. If you’re planning to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping buyers navigate the Minnesota home buying process, I’ll guide you step-by-step to avoid these pitfalls and get you into your new home with confidence. Ready to buy smart in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make sure your credit and finances are bulletproof before you start shopping.

Buying a home in the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area—especially in the south metro (Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington)—is exciting. But many first-time and even repeat buyers overlook the hidden costs of homeownership that can quickly strain your budget after closing. These expenses go far beyond the mortgage payment, property taxes, and homeowners insurance. With over 20 years as a real estate agent in Lakeville MN, I’ve helped hundreds of buyers avoid surprises by planning for these costs upfront. Here’s what you need to know to be financially prepared for homeownership in 2026.The Big Hidden Costs Most Buyers Miss

1. Utilities
   Electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, and internet can easily run $300–$600/month (or more) depending on the home’s size, age, and efficiency. Older homes often have higher utility bills—factor this in when budgeting.
2. Maintenance & Repairs
   Roofs, HVAC systems, appliances, plumbing, and electrical issues don’t stop when you move in. Expect 1–2% of the home’s value annually for routine maintenance ($3,000–$6,000+ for a $300k–$400k home). Unexpected repairs (furnace replacement, roof leak) can easily cost $5,000–$15,000.
3. Home Improvements & Upgrades
   Buyers often plan small projects—new deck, fence, landscaping, kitchen refresh—but costs add up fast:
   • Deck: $8,000–$20,000+
   • Fence: $5,000–$15,000
   • Landscaping: $3,000–$10,000
   • Kitchen/bath updates: $10,000–$50,000+
     Don’t guess—get real quotes before closing.
4. HOA Fees (if applicable)
   In many south metro neighborhoods, HOA fees range from $50–$400/month. These cover common area maintenance, snow removal, amenities—but they add up quickly.
5. Property Taxes & Insurance Increases
   Taxes and insurance often rise after purchase (especially after reassessment). Budget for a 10–20% increase in year one.

How to Prepare and Stay Financially Safe

• Build an emergency fund — Aim for 3–6 months of expenses + a separate home maintenance fund ($5,000–$10,000).
• Get realistic quotes — Before you buy, price out planned upgrades so you know the true cost.
• Work with a knowledgeable agent — A good agent helps you factor in these costs during the buying process and connects you with trusted contractors.
• Run the numbers — Use a mortgage calculator + add estimated utilities, maintenance, HOA, and upgrades to see your true monthly cost.

The Bottom Line Hidden costs are real and ongoing. Ignoring them can turn your dream home into a financial burden. The more prepared you are, the more confident and secure you’ll feel as a homeowner. If you’re ready to buy in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville  with over 20 years of experience, I’ll help you understand the full cost of ownership and find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle. Ready to buy smart in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make sure you’re prepared for every cost—visible and hidden.

Before you start touring homes in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or anywhere in the south metro, there’s one critical number you must know: What can you actually afford? This single number determines everything that follows in the home buying process 2026.The Three Numbers Every Buyer Must Know

1. How much home can you be approved for?
   This is the maximum loan amount a lender will give you based on your income, credit score, debts, and down payment.
2. What monthly payment feels comfortable for your budget?
   Approval is one thing—living with that payment long-term is another. Many buyers get approved for more than they can comfortably afford.
3. What is your realistic target price range?
   This is the number you’ll actually shop within, balancing what the bank says with what your lifestyle can support.

The Most Common (and Costly) Mistake Far too many buyers start shopping before they’re pre-approved. They fall in love with a house over the weekend, only to discover on Monday that they can’t qualify for the loan—or the monthly payment is too high. Meanwhile, the pre-approved buyer (who did the work first) submits a clean offer and wins the home. Build Your Team First Before you look at a single house, assemble your core team:

• Mortgage loan officer (get pre-approved)
• Real estate agent (Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or south metro)
• Home inspector (for later in the process)

Getting pre-approved first does two powerful things:

• You know exactly what you can afford.
• You can move quickly when you find the right home—sellers and listing agents love pre-approved buyers.

Why This Step Matters in 2026Interest rates are fluctuating, inventory is still tight in many south metro neighborhoods, and strong offers win. A buyer who is pre-approved, knows their number, and has their finances in order is always in a stronger position than one who is still “just looking. ”Take the time upfront. It’s not the fun part, but it’s the part that protects you and gives you confidence when the right home appears. Ready to get pre-approved and start your home search the right way?
Text or call me today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Tom Sommers, Coldwell Banker Realty — serving Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, and the entire south metro. Let’s get you in the best possible position to buy in 2026.

Buying a home in today’s Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area market—especially in the south metro (Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, and surrounding communities)—is competitive. Multiple buyers often compete for the same property across a wide range of price points. To put yourself in the best position to win the home you want, you need to do the work upfront and avoid common pitfalls that cause buyers to lose out. Why This Series Matters The buyers who struggle or miss out usually work with:

• Inexperienced agents who don’t understand current market dynamics.
• Agents who are slow or disorganized — delayed follow-up, incomplete paperwork, missed deadlines, or poor communication.

Who you hire as your real estate agent directly impacts your success. The right agent saves you time, money, and stress while helping you navigate a fast-moving market. The wrong one can cost you your dream home. Over the next 10 articles in this series, I’ll walk you through every key step of the home-buying process in Minnesota in 2026:

• Credit scores and mortgage pre-approval
• Finding the right home and searching effectively
• Making a strong, strategic offer
• Negotiating and handling contingencies
• Home inspections and what to watch for
• Appraisal, financing, and closing details
• Final walkthrough and move-in preparation

This isn’t generic advice. It’s based on over 20 years of hands-on experience helping buyers and sellers in the south metro area. My goal is to give you clear, practical steps so you’re prepared, confident, and ready to act when the right home appears. How to Get the Most Out of This Series

• Read each part as it’s released.
• Reach out with questions at any time—no obligation. Text or call me, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty.
• Use this knowledge to evaluate agents and make sure the one you choose is proactive, detail-oriented, and truly working for you.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or anywhere in the south metro, let’s talk. I’ll help you get pre-approved, find the right property, and position you to win in today’s market. Ready to start your home-buying journey in 2026? Contact me today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Text or call—Tom Sommers, Coldwell Banker Realty.

• Pre-Negotiation Strategy Sessions — Before any offer comes in, we discuss scenarios: “If the buyer asks for this, here’s how we counter.” Preparation keeps emotions out and decisions clear.
• Look at the Full Picture — A small concession on closing costs, repairs, or price can unlock a higher net for you after commissions and fees.
• Respond Quickly and Professionally — When an offer or request comes in, respond fast and clearly. Delayed or aggressive responses make buyers feel unwanted—they move on.
• Use Data, Not Emotion — Show buyers comps, market trends, and absorption rates. Facts win arguments more than stubbornness.
• Know When to Hold Firm — Not every request deserves a yes. But refusing everything signals inflexibility—and buyers walk.

The Showing-to-Offer Connection. Many sellers think buyers will “just make an offer” even if showings are low or denied. That’s a myth. Buyers rarely push back hard. If they can’t see the home when they want, or feel resistance from the start, they move to the next property. I’ve seen agents lose serious buyers over minor scheduling issues or rigid attitudes. In a market where buyers have options, flexible negotiation keeps your home in play. The more showings you get, the more offers you attract, and the better your final position. The Bottom Line. Flexible negotiation isn’t weakness—it’s strategy. The goal is to close the deal at the best possible terms, not to “win” every point. A great agent fights for you but knows when to compromise to protect the overall sale.

• “Move-in ready”
• “Beautiful open floor plan”
• “Warm and cozy”

These are overused and meaningless without context. Buyers feel them when they walk through—not when they read them. Instead, give them a reason to keep scrolling:

• Highlight what sets your home apart (e.g., “Stunning lake views from every window” or “Fully remodeled kitchen with high-end finishes”).
• Use quick bullet points of valuable features that create curiosity.
• Entice them to click for more: “Discover why this home has everything you’ve been searching for.”

Example strong opener:
“Welcome to this beautifully updated Lakeville home with top-dollar upgrades and curb appeal that turns heads. Spacious layout, modern kitchen, and private backyard oasis—see why this one won’t last long!”How Strong Social Media Marketing Amplifies EverythingIn 2026, buyers are scrolling Instagram, Facebook, and Google before they ever contact an agent. If your listing is shared on social media with eye-catching Reels, Stories, or posts (geotagged photos/videos from high-traffic spots), it reaches more people faster. A strong social media marketing strategy:

• Increases views and shares.
• Builds trust before the buyer ever steps foot in the home.
• Positions you as the expert who understands digital exposure.

Agents who post regularly (daily Reels, geotagged content, seller tips) get 5–10× more engagement than those who don’t. When your home is seen “everywhere” on social and Maps, buyers feel like it’s the one they can’t miss.The Bottom LineYou have 15 seconds to hook a buyer online. A powerful exterior photo, concise value-driven description, and strong social media marketing are non-negotiable in today’s market. Skip them, and your home becomes just another listing. Nail them, and you dramatically increase showings, offers, and your final sale price.If your home isn’t selling or you’re ready to list your home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience helping sellers get top dollar, I’ll create a tailored plan that maximizes exposure and minimizes time on market.Ready to sell your home fast in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make your home the one buyers can’t resist.

In today’s real estate market—especially in the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area and south metro (Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington)—social media marketing is no longer optional. It’s one of the most powerful tools an agent has to get your home sold faster and for top dollar. If your agent doesn’t understand social media, you’re missing out on a huge segment of potential buyers who start their search on Instagram, Facebook, and Google before they ever contact an agent. Why Social Media Is a Game-Changer for Home Sellers Over my 20+ years as a real estate agent in Lakeville MN, I’ve watched marketing evolve: Yellow Pages → newspaper ads → websites → social media. Today, buyers are scrolling Instagram Reels, Facebook videos, and Google Maps long before they call an agent. If your listing isn’t being promoted effectively on these platforms, you’re invisible to a massive audience. Here are the hard facts from my own results:

• Over 30,000 followers across Facebook and Instagram (combined reach that grows daily).
• Videos about homes, market updates, or seller tips routinely get 5,000–10,000 views in the first 24 hours.
• These views come from both followers and non-followers—the algorithm pushes strong content to new audiences.

This isn’t bragging. It’s proof that social media marketing delivers real exposure. How Strong Social Media Directly Benefits Your Sale When your agent understands social media, you get:

• More eyes on your home — Videos and posts reach thousands who might never see your listing on traditional sites.
• Higher engagement — Buyers watch videos, comment, share, and feel connected before they even step foot inside.
• Faster sales — Homes with strong social promotion sell quicker because they generate buzz and urgency.
• More offers — Increased visibility = more showings = more competition = better offers and top dollar for you.
• Unexpected buyers — I’ve had clients say, “We weren’t even looking in this city, but we saw your video on social and fell in love with the home.” Or, “A friend sent us your video about a Lakeville listing—we want more info.” This happens constantly.

What Separates Great Social Media Marketing from Average Having a Facebook page or posting occasionally isn’t enough. The best agents:

• Understand SEO for social platforms (hashtags, captions, geotags).
• Know how to beta test videos and content for maximum engagement.
• Track metrics (views, watch time, shares, clicks) and adjust strategy.
• Post consistently (daily Reels/Stories, weekly updates) to keep the algorithm favoring their content.

If your agent isn’t doing this, your home is missing out on exposure that could turn a stale listing into a multiple-offer situation. The Bottom Line You can’t say you understand social media marketing just because you have a Facebook page. It takes strategy, consistency, and data to turn followers into buyers. In today’s market, a strong social presence isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s essential for selling your home fast and for top dollar. If your home isn’t selling or you’re ready to list your home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience and a proven social media marketing strategy, I’ll make sure your home gets seen by the right buyers. Ready to maximize your home’s exposure in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s get your home sold.