Why the 2026 Housing Market Still Looks Strong

December 21, 2025December 21, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

If you’ve been following national real estate headlines, you might think the housing market is either slowing to a crawl or on the brink of collapse. But here in Minneapolis–St. Paul, that narrative doesn’t quite fit.

Economists that look at real estate markets nationwide agree!

What we’re experiencing right now isn’t a boom or a bust. It’s something we haven’t seen in years: a more normal housing market. And when you zoom out and look at the bigger picture, that normalcy may actually set Minneapolis up for a strong 2026.

What the Minneapolis Housing Market Looks Like Right Now

This past year has been brisk—but not chaotic. Homes aren’t selling in minutes anymore, and that’s an important shift.

The average home is spending about 39 days on the market. This is consistent with past years.
Interest rates have largely held steady in the mid-6% range for 30-year fixed mortgages
Buyers have more breathing room, and sellers are still seeing solid demand

When you compare today’s market to the frenzy of 2020–2022, it feels very different. But when you compare it to 2019, it starts to look familiar. Balanced. Measured. Functional.

That’s not a bad thing.

Why Minneapolis Keeps Ranking as a Top Growth Market

Despite higher interest rates and a slower pace, Minneapolis continues to show up on top 5 growth market lists from major real estate organizations like Zillow, Redfin, and the National Association of Realtors.

So why does this metro keep punching above its weight?

1. Relative Affordability for a Major Metro

For a city of this size, Minneapolis remains comparatively affordable. We offer strong job markets, respected healthcare systems, major universities, and vibrant arts and cultural amenities—without the price tags seen in many coastal cities.

That affordability continues to attract buyers from higher-cost regions of the country.

2. Climate Stability Is Becoming a Housing Factor

While not always part of traditional real estate conversations, climate resilience is increasingly influencing long-term housing demand.

The Upper Midwest is more insulated from many of the climate-related disasters impacting other parts of the U.S., and that stability is quietly shaping migration patterns. Over time, this contributes to sustained housing demand.

3. Ongoing Housing Shortages

Housing inventory remains tight—and there’s little indication that this will change quickly.

New construction remains expensive
Building material costs continue to be impacted by tariffs
Labor shortages are worsening due to immigration crackdowns that reduce the availability of skilled workers on job sites

Fewer homes being built means continued pressure on prices, even in a calmer market.

What to Watch Heading Into 2026

No market is without risk, and it’s important to stay realistic.

Employment trends matter, and national unemployment rates have been increasing. A weakening job market can always influence buyer confidence. That said, real estate is deeply local.

When you look specifically at Minneapolis and the broader Upper Midwest, the fundamentals remain strong: stable demand, limited supply, relative affordability, and long-term desirability.

Why a “Normal” Market Is Actually Good News

This isn’t the frenzy of 2021, and it isn’t a market falling apart either.

It’s a steadier environment where:

Buyers can make thoughtful decisions
Sellers still benefit from constrained inventory
Pricing is supported by fundamentals rather than hype

For people who understand the local market, this kind of balance can be incredibly healthy—especially as we look toward 2026.

Final Thoughts

If you’re buying, selling, or considering a move to Minneapolis, understanding local conditions matters far more than national headlines. The Twin Cities market continues to show resilience, stability, and long-term promise—even as other regions experience very different outcomes.

As always, all real estate is local. And right now, Minneapolis is quietly—and confidently—holding its ground.

The Affordable Side of Minnetonka Nobody Talks About

December 6, 2025December 6, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

When most people hear “Minnetonka,” they immediately think expensive homes, lake life, and luxury neighborhoods—and honestly, that reputation is well earned. With top-rated schools, mature wooded lots, proximity to Minneapolis and MSP Airport, and easy access to Lake Minnetonka, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, regional parks, and apple orchards, Minnetonka is one of the most desirable suburbs in the Twin Cities.

Right now, the average resale home price in Minnetonka is around $718,000, and new construction is closer to $740,000 or more if you can even find it. So when I recently started showing homes in a pocket of Minnetonka where prices are still in the low $600,000s, I was genuinely impressed.

A Retro-Built Neighborhood That Lives Large

Most of the homes in this more affordable section of Minnetonka were built in the 1970s and 1980s. And while that era might not sound glamorous at first, these homes have something many modern builds simply don’t: actual rooms.

Instead of one massive open-concept floor plan, these houses typically offer:

4 or more bedrooms
Separate family rooms and living rooms
Kitchens that don’t dominate the entire main level
Flexible spaces perfect for offices, playrooms, or quiet retreats

If you enjoy gathering as a family—but also value the ability to close a door and not stare at the kitchen mess—this style of home just makes sense.

Big Lots, Hills, and Mature Trees

What truly sets this pocket apart is the land.

Many of these properties sit on ½ acre or more, with:

Rolling terrain
Curving neighborhood streets
Towering mature trees
A peaceful, established feel

You’ll find this housing style throughout the Twin Cities, but the combination of lot size, price point, and location is what makes this area particularly special.

Easy Commute & Everyday Convenience

Another major perk? Location.

From this area of Minnetonka, you’re about:

20 minutes to downtown Minneapolis
20 minutes to MSP Airport
Minutes from Target, Cub Foods, and Ridgedale Center
Close to all the restaurants, small shops, and local charm of downtown Hopkins

That’s a rare mix of space and convenience that’s becoming harder and harder to find.

Who This Area Is Perfect For

This neighborhood is ideal if you’re looking for:

A retro home with character
Large yards for kids or dogs
A quiet suburban feel
Short, manageable commutes
And a price that’s below the Minnetonka median

Minnetonka doesn’t usually scream “affordable,” but this hidden pocket proves that great opportunities still exist if you know where to look.

If you’re searching for a home in Minnetonka or anywhere in the Twin Cities and want help finding the smartest value for your budget, I’d love to help. I’m Mary Schumann, a Minnesota relocation specialist, and I help buyers move smart in Minnesota every day.

market updates

Twin Cities Real Estate Market Update — November 2025

December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

As we approach the end of the year in Minnesota, the rhythm of life shifts. The days get shorter, the temps get colder, and people settle into the cozy rituals that make winter here feel special. And right on schedule, the real estate market slows down, too.

But slowing down doesn’t mean declining. In fact, the Minneapolis–St. Paul market remains one of the strongest and most stable in the country, especially when you focus on the 7-county metro, which is where most buyers want to be.

Here’s what’s happening right now — and what it means for buyers and sellers heading into 2026.

Year-Over-Year Appreciation: Slow, Steady, Healthy

For previously owned single-family homes, the year-over-year appreciation rate is 4.5%.
This is exactly where we want to be — growing, but not overheated.

Some markets around the country are seeing price declines.
We are not.

Home prices here continue to hold their value, even when individual listings make price adjustments.

A Spotty, Discerning Market

The 2025 market is unusual — but honestly, when hasn’t it been?

Here’s the pattern we’re seeing:

Homes at or below the median price point often sell quickly and may receive multiple offers.
Higher-priced homes have a smaller buyer pool and may sit longer.

Across all price points, buyers are becoming more selective.
They want move-in ready. They want value. They want fewer reasons to hesitate.

For sellers, this means preparation matters more than ever.
Removing objections before buyers walk in the door is critical.

Current Prices and Inventory Levels

Previously Owned Single-Family Homes (7-County Metro)

Median price: $418,000
Average price: ~$508,000
Months supply: 1.7
This number has not budged in more than a year.

Anything under 5 months of supply is considered a seller’s market, and we are firmly in that territory.

New Construction

Median price: $600,000
Average price: ~$713,000
YOY appreciation: 6%
Months supply: ~6 months

New construction is a balanced market, offering buyers an abundance of choice—but typically with trade-offs, including larger homes on smaller lots and landscaping that won’t feel mature for years.

Why Winter Is One of the Best Times to Buy

If you’re planning to buy at all, winter often provides the strongest buyer advantages:

More motivated sellers
Less competition
More negotiation power
More time to make decisions
Less pressure to waive protections

You can often secure a lower price in November or December than you can in the spring, when additional buyers flood the market.

Looking Ahead: Predictions for 2026

The Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors predicts a 16% increase in home sales next year, assuming the Federal Reserve reduces interest rates as the economy cools.

If interest rates drop to around 6% or below, demand could skyrocket.

That sounds great for affordability — but keep in mind that lower rates also mean more competition. Prices and bidding activity typically rise when buyer demand returns in force.

And remember:
Minnesota’s spring market starts in January.

Every year, without fail.

If you’re hoping to avoid competition, winter may be your moment.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re buying or selling, strategy is everything.

Buyers: Winter gives you leverage and options.
Sellers: Patience is key in slower segments, but demand always returns with the new year.

The Twin Cities continues to offer stable appreciation, strong demand, and a market that behaves differently from many coastal or high-volatility areas.

And if you’re relocating here — welcome. It’s a great place to be, even in the winter.

If you want personalized advice or want to start a conversation about buying or selling in 2026, I’m here to help!

Send me a message at mschumann@kw.com

Home Buying · home selling · Uncategorized

Why Working With a Solo Real Estate Agent Beats a Big Team — Every Time

November 14, 2025November 14, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

If you’ve ever contacted a real estate agent because you loved their marketing, their videos, or their personality… only to suddenly find yourself working with someone entirely different, you’re not alone.

This is one of the most common complaints I hear from buyers and sellers relocating to — or moving within — the Twin Cities. They thought they were hiring that agent, but instead they got handed off to someone on their team. Often, it’s a newer agent still gaining experience.

So let’s talk about it:
Should you work with a solo agent or a real estate team?
And what does that experience actually feel like as a client?

As a solo Twin Cities Realtor who handles every part of the process myself, I’ll tell you what you can expect — and why this choice matters more than most buyers and sellers realize.

What Really Happens When You Hire a Real Estate Team

Real estate teams are built for one thing: volume.
The larger the team, the more clients they can run through the system. That’s great for them… not always great for you.

Here’s the typical experience:

You reach out to “Top Agent Jane,” the one all over YouTube and Instagram.
Jane doesn’t personally take new buyer calls.
Your information goes to their “buyer specialist” — a newer agent learning on the job.
That buyer agent might not have the negotiation experience you expected.
The lead agent may never show up at a showing, a strategy call, or even your closing.

There’s nothing wrong with new agents — everyone starts somewhere!
But you didn’t choose that person.
You chose the face of the brand… and got someone else.

For many people, this feels like a bait-and-switch — even if it wasn’t intentional.

What It’s Like to Work With a Solo Agent

When you work with a solo agent, the experience is entirely different.

You get the person you contacted. Every step of the way.

I know your timeline.
I know your story.
I know your preferences, your deal-breakers, your stress points, and your goals.

And because I’m the one taking every call, attending every showing, writing every offer, and negotiating every term, nothing gets lost in translation.

There is no hand-off.
No “let me check with the team.”
No confusion about who’s managing what.

Just one dedicated professional who truly knows your transaction from the inside out.

Why Experience Matters — Especially in Negotiation

One of the biggest advantages of working with a seasoned solo agent is negotiation skill.

Many team-based agents specialize only in buyers or only in sellers.
That sounds good… until you realize they don’t understand what motivates the other side.

When your agent works with both buyers and sellers — and manages every part of the deal personally — they have a complete understanding of:

how sellers evaluate offers
what buyers notice (and what they don’t)
how listing agents prioritize communication
what makes an offer stand out
what terms truly matter in today’s Twin Cities market

You get strategy, not just logistics.

A Solo Agent Learns YOU — Not Just Your File

Real estate is deeply personal.
Buying or selling a home is emotional, stressful, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming.

When you’re passed between team members, the experience can start to feel transactional.

When you work with one dedicated agent, you get something simpler and more meaningful: trust.

You don’t have to re-explain yourself.
You don’t have to wonder who’s calling.
You don’t have to worry that someone new has taken over your file.

Instead, you get consistency, clarity, and confidence.

So… Team or Solo? What Should You Choose?

Real estate teams work well for highly structured, high-volume business models.
Some consumers prefer that.

But if you value:

✔ personal communication
✔ consistent guidance
✔ a seasoned professional overseeing everything
✔ relationship over volume
✔ thoughtful, strategic, experience-based advice

…then a solo agent might be exactly what you’re looking for.

And if you’re relocating to Minnesota — or moving within Minneapolis/St. Paul — having one dedicated guide makes the process so much easier.

Minnesota · winter in Minnesota

How Minnesotans Stay Happy in a Long, Cold Winter

October 26, 2025October 26, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

Every year, people ask me the same question: “How do you survive winter up there?”

But here’s the truth — most Minnesotans don’t just survive winter. We embrace it. Because winter here isn’t just a season — it’s a lifestyle of rest, coziness, and recalibration.

🍎 The Sweet Transition: From Autumn Magic to Winter Chill

Before the snowflakes fly, Minnesota puts on one last glorious show — fall. Crisp mornings, trees bursting with color, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and sweater weather galore.

Minnesota is a huge apple-growing state, so people spend weekends picking Honeycrisps, drinking cider, and pretending not to notice that cold wind sneaking in.

But as the leaves fade, reality sets in. Around December 1st, we officially enter “winter mode.” Days get shorter, temps drop fast, and the sun likes to call it quits before 5 p.m.

If you’re new to the state — or just new to enjoying winter — the trick is to have a plan. You can’t control the cold, but you can control your mindset.

❄️ Strategy #1: Get Outside Anyway

Even if it feels counterintuitive, getting outside is the best way to stay happy in winter.

Put down what I lovingly call the “glowing cube of doom” (your phone), bundle up, and get outside for a short walk. Fresh air and natural light make a huge difference in your mood.

Pro tip: If it’s icy, don’t skip it — just use ice cleats! They attach to your shoes and give you superhero-level traction. You’ll find them at any hardware store or online.

🧣 Strategy #2: Lean Into Cozy

When it’s too cold to go out, that’s your sign to nest.

Pile on soft blankets, fuzzy socks, and make your space feel like a cocoon.
Do something creative — puzzles, painting, knitting, or reading.

There’s something deeply calming about doing slow, tactile things in winter. And if you’ve ever spent a morning reading in bed while snow falls outside… you know the magic I’m talking about.

When it’s dark early, lean into it. Make a movie night of it. Create your own little home theater. Winter gives you permission to rest.

🍞 Strategy #3: Cook, Bake, and Feed Your Soul

Winter in Minnesota is soup weather.

And if you’ve never used a bread machine, trust me — it’s time. They’re all over Facebook Marketplace for next to nothing, and they’ll fill your house with that glorious fresh-baked smell.

Soup and bread are the ultimate winter comfort combo — they warm your house, your belly, and your spirit.

🧍‍♀️ Strategy #4: Stay Connected

When you’re not in full hibernation mode, make sure you connect with others.

The Twin Cities have an incredible sense of community. Whether you love hiking, board games, knitting, or singing, there’s a group for you — Meetup.com is a great place to start.

And if you can’t find your people? Create your own group. Minnesotans show up for community.

🌟 The Big Picture

Life doesn’t stop when the weather turns cold — it just changes pace.

Winter gives you the opportunity to rest, recharge, and refocus. It’s a season designed for slowing down, cozying up, and reconnecting — with yourself and your community.

So if you’re new to Minnesota or just need a little winter pep talk, take heart. You’ll make it through, and who knows — you might even love it.

I’m Mary Schumann, Realtor here in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area, and I help people find their place in Minnesota — in every season.

market updates · Uncategorized

Minneapolis Real Estate Market Update | October 2025

October 11, 2025October 11, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

If you’ve been following national real estate news lately, you’ve probably seen some dramatic headlines: “Home Prices Are Falling!” or “The Housing Market Is in Decline!”
And while that’s true for many cities across the country… it’s not the story here in Minnesota.

Here in the Twin Cities, the housing market continues to hold steady — and even grow — while other once-red-hot markets cool off. What’s really happening as we head into fall 2025?

📉 The National Picture: Markets Cooling Down

Across the U.S., many of the cities that were booming in 2021 and 2022 are now seeing prices soften and homes sit longer on the market.
A recent report listed the top 10 cities with falling home prices (per redfin), and they included:

Miami
Austin
San Diego
Richmond, VA
Boston
San Antonio
Dallas
Denver
Phoenix
Sacramento

These are all markets that experienced major appreciation during the pandemic — and now, they’re seeing the other side of that cycle.

📈 The Minneapolis Story: A Very Different Trend

Meanwhile, here in the Twin Cities, things look much more balanced — and frankly, healthy.

The median price for previously owned single-family homes in our 7-county metro area is up 5% year-over-year, sitting at around $420,000.

Even more encouraging, new construction homes — which saw some price dips last year — have rebounded. The median price for a new construction single-family home is up 5.5%, landing just under $600,000.

So while national headlines sound gloomy, the Minneapolis market remains strong, steady, and appreciating at a sustainable pace.

🏠 Inventory: The Most We’ve Seen in Years

Let’s talk about inventory — because that’s where we’re really seeing movement.

As of early October, there are just over 8,000 active listings across the metro.
For comparison:

October 2024: 7,700 active listings
2020: 6,000 active listings
2019 (our last “normal” year): 9,400 active listings

So while we’re not back to pre-pandemic levels, it’s a noticeable increase.
Every one of the seven metro counties now has more than two months of inventory, with Anoka County being the tightest at exactly two months.

This shift toward balance is a good thing. It means buyers have more choices, sellers need to be more strategic, and overall, the market feels more normal again.

💸 Price Reductions on the Rise — But Sales Are Still Strong

Another sign of a normalizing market? Price reductions.

Across the Twin Cities, we’re seeing roughly 1,000 price reductions every single day on active listings.
That doesn’t mean homes aren’t selling — it just means sellers and agents are adjusting to find that sweet spot where supply and demand meet.

When a home is priced correctly and shows well, it still sells. But gone are the days of “list it Friday, sold by Monday with 12 offers.” This is the kind of market where experience, pricing strategy, and presentation really matter.

Despite more price adjustments, we’re still ahead of last year in the number of total homes sold — proof that this is not a stalled market, just a balanced one.

🕰 Is It Smart to Try to “Time the Market”?

I get asked this a lot:
“Should I wait to buy until prices drop?”
“Should I hold off on selling until things heat back up?”

Here’s the thing — unless you have insider information the rest of us don’t, it’s nearly impossible to time the market perfectly.

Real estate is hyper-local. It’s not even just city by city — it’s neighborhood by neighborhood, sometimes block by block.

That’s why I always tell my clients: look at your personal timing, your finances, and your goals. Then make decisions based on that, not just the national headlines.

🌳 The Bottom Line: Minneapolis Is Steady and Strong

While other parts of the country are feeling the chill, the Twin Cities real estate market continues to show quiet confidence.

We have:
✅ Rising prices (5–5.5% year-over-year)
✅ Growing inventory but still healthy demand
✅ More balance between buyers and sellers
✅ A steady pace of sales

It’s not a “boom” or a “bust.” It’s a sustainable, smart market — and that’s exactly where you want to be.

If you’d like a more detailed look at what’s happening in your specific neighborhood or suburb, reach out! I love helping people who meet me on YouTube and my blog understand the real numbers behind the market.

And if you’re thinking about moving to Minnesota, grab my Free Relocation Guide — it’s linked below and packed with everything you need to know about living in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area.

👋 I’m Mary Schumann, Realtor in the Twin Cities metro.
If you found this helpful, subscribe to my YouTube channel or reach out directly — I’d love to help you navigate our Minnesota market with confidence.
📍Free Minnesota Relocation Guide: https://maryschumann.kw.com/twin-cities-relocation-guide

market updates

🏡 Minneapolis Real Estate Market Update – July 2025

July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

More Homes. Less Pressure. But Still a Seller’s Market?

If you’ve been watching the Minneapolis housing market over the past few years, you might be wondering: is this finally the shift we’ve been waiting for? In short — kind of!

Here’s what I’m seeing on the ground (and in the numbers) right now as of July 2025.

📈 Inventory Is Rising — and That Matters

We’ve seen a 31% increase in listings since the start of the year, and there are now about 7,300 active listings in the 7-county Twin Cities metro. That’s nearly 1,000 more homes than this time last year.

More homes on the market means more choices — and a little less panic — for buyers.

Almost every county is now over 2 months of housing supply:

Anoka and Ramsey Counties are still under 2 months.
Carver County is leading the pack at nearly 3 months.

📊 Quick Inventory Refresher:

0–5 months = Seller’s market
5–6 months = Balanced market
6+ months = Buyer’s market

So yes, we’re still in a seller’s market technically… but emotionally, it feels like a big relief for buyers compared to the frenzied pace of the past few years.

🧭 Buyer Experience: More Room to Breathe

If you’re coming from out of state — especially places where homes are lingering on the market or negotiation cycles are long — the Twin Cities might feel strange.

We still see multiple offers. Especially for homes that are:

Closer to the city
Priced right
In “1 out of 10” condition (mint and move-in ready)

Those homes? They’re flying. Still.
But listings that need a little TLC, staging, or smart pricing? Buyers are negotiating, and sellers are making concessions.

💡 What Accepted Offers Are Looking Like Right Now

The transaction coordination team I use (Home Free TC) provided a quick market snapshot based on 47 accepted offers between July 1–11, 2025. It’s a small sample, but all from busy, high-volume agents:

15% of buyers waived inspections (that’s way down from the last few years)
21% were cash offers, 70% conventional financing
Median sale-to-list price: 100%
28% of offers included seller-paid closing costs
Only 4% used escalation clauses, and just 8% included appraisal gap coverage
Home warranties included in 11% of deals
Cancellation rate: 2%

Takeaway? The market is calmer. Strategic. Thoughtful. But good homes still move fast.

🏠 How Property Types Are Trending

🔹 Single-Family Homes:

Median price: $415,000
YOY increase: +3.8%
Median days on market: 14 (including inspection!)
Most homes go under contract within the first week.

🔹 New Construction:

Median price: $595,000
YOY increase: +4.9%
There’s more supply than demand here, which means more negotiating power for buyers. A great opportunity right now.

🔹 Condos:

Median price: Just over $200K
Flat pricing, and days on market are increasing.
Supply > demand = slower sales.

🔹 Townhomes:

Median price: $310,000
Median days on market: 30
Townhome prices are holding steady, but longer market times are giving buyers a bit more wiggle room.

💬 So… Is It a Buyer’s Market Yet?

Not quite — but we’re headed in that direction, and it feels a whole lot better for buyers than it did even a year ago.

If you’re thinking about buying, there are real opportunities right now.
If you’re selling, presentation and pricing matter more than ever — but you still hold strong ground.

🤝 Want Help Navigating This Market?

Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, upsizing, or just exploring options — I’m here to help. I’ve worked with clients all across the country and love helping people figure out whether Minnesota is their next home.

📩 Feel free to reach out — mschumann@kw.com or call / text 773-791-2015

Thanks for reading!
– Mary Schumann

Living in Minneapolis · market updates

The MINNEAPOLIS SPRING HOUSING MARKET is LIT 🔥

February 26, 2025February 26, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

I just did a video that gives real life examples of what is happening in the 7 county metro Twin Cities housing market right now and wanted to share it with you. Things have changed QUICKLY!

Let me know if you have questions about the market or how to WIN in this market. The pandemic was a good boot camp for agents that made it through!

Minnesota · Uncategorized

Minneapolis Named the Happiest City in the U.S. – Here’s Why You’ll Love Living Here

February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

Can you believe Minneapolis is the happiest city in the United States? According to Travel + Leisure, our city outranked some of the most well-known places in the country when it comes to happiness.

But what makes Minneapolis so special? And if you’re thinking about moving to Minnesota, is this the right place for you? Let’s break it all down—why people love living here, what makes Minneapolis stand out, and why so many people are choosing to call the Twin Cities home.

Why Minneapolis is America’s Happiest City

When people think about moving to Minnesota, the first thing they picture is cold winters. And while, yes, we get snow, what many don’t realize is that Minneapolis thrives year-round. The combination of a strong job market, endless outdoor activities, a rich arts and culture scene, and affordable real estate makes this city a fantastic place to live.

Here’s why so many people are making the move to Minneapolis.

1. Incredible Green Spaces & Outdoor Life

One of the biggest reasons people love living in Minneapolis is access to nature. In fact, Minneapolis consistently ranks as one of the best cities in the U.S. for parks and outdoor recreation.

🏞️ 180+ parks, 22 lakes, and miles of trails – perfect for biking, walking, and jogging
🚣 Year-round outdoor fun – summer means kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking, while winter brings cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and even pond hockey
🌳 The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes – a must-see spot where you can enjoy waterfront views, picnic areas, and scenic trails

If you love outdoor activities but still want the perks of a vibrant city, Minneapolis offers the best of both worlds.

2. Booming Job Market & Economy

If you’re moving to Minnesota for work, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. Minneapolis has a thriving job market, with Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups alike.

🏢 Big employers include Target, Best Buy, Medtronic, 3M, and General Mills
💼 Growing industries: Tech, healthcare, finance, and creative services
📈 Low unemployment rates and strong wages compared to national averages

Minneapolis has one of the best economies in the Midwest, making it a great place to build your career and enjoy a strong work-life balance.

3. Arts, Culture, & Food Scene

If you think the Midwest is all farmland and small towns, think again. Minneapolis has an amazing arts and entertainment scene that rivals cities twice its size.

🎭 Theater lovers rejoice! – Minneapolis has more theaters per capita than any U.S. city except New York
🎸 Live music and nightlife – From First Avenue (where Prince made history) to local jazz clubs, music lovers will always find a show to enjoy
🍔 Foodie paradise – From craft breweries to James Beard Award-winning restaurants, the city’s food scene is a hidden gem

Whether you’re into theater, music, or dining out, Minneapolis has something for everyone.

4. More Affordable Than Other Major Cities

Compared to cities like San Francisco, Seattle, or Austin, Minneapolis is much more affordable—especially when it comes to housing.

🏡 Lower home prices than coastal cities – You get more space for your money
🚗 Shorter commutes – No soul-crushing traffic like in L.A. or NYC
💰 Lower cost of living – More affordable groceries, dining, and entertainment

If you’re considering moving to Minneapolis, now is a great time to buy a home. Whether you want a downtown condo, a charming bungalow, or a new construction home in the suburbs, there are great options at a price point that won’t break the bank.

So, Is Minneapolis Right for You?

If you’re looking for a city with a strong sense of community, thriving job opportunities, affordable housing, and endless outdoor activities, and a generally HIGH quality of life, then Minneapolis might be the perfect place for you.

And if you’re ready to start exploring homes in Minneapolis or the Twin Cities area, I’d love to help! As a local real estate expert, I work with buyers relocating to Minnesota all the time. Whether you have questions about the market or need help finding the right neighborhood, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📩 Thinking about making the move? Contact me today!

Living in Minneapolis · Neighborhood Tours · Uncategorized

Why Live in Fulton, Minneapolis? A Guide to This Charming, Walkable Neighborhood

February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 MaryLeave a comment

If you’re looking for a walkable, charming, and convenient neighborhood in Minneapolis, Fulton should be on your radar. Located in the southwest part of the city, this neighborhood offers beautiful historic homes, easy access to nature, and a fantastic local dining and shopping scene. Whether you’re drawn to Lake Harriet, Minnehaha Creek, or the convenience of 50th & France, Fulton has a lot to offer.

Let’s dive into what makes Fulton one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Minneapolis!

Proximity to Lake Harriet & Minnehaha Creek 🌳🚶‍♀️

One of the biggest perks of living in Fulton is how close you are to Lake Harriet. The lake is one of Minneapolis’ most scenic spots, offering:

Walking and biking trails 🚴‍♂️
Public beaches 🏖️
A bandshell with live music in the summer 🎶
Beautiful views year-round 🌅

But that’s not all—just south of Fulton, you’ll find Minnehaha Creek, a picturesque waterway with a paved trail that connects to the Mississippi River. Whether you’re a cyclist, runner, or just enjoy peaceful walks, Fulton puts you right in the middle of it all.

Historic Homes & New Construction Trends 🏡✨

Fulton is known for its early 1900s homes, including Craftsman bungalows, Tudors, and other historic styles that give the neighborhood character. However, because Fulton is so desirable, many smaller homes are being torn down and replaced with larger, modern builds.

This means homebuyers have options:

Classic charm – If you love historic homes, Fulton has plenty to choose from.
New construction – If you prefer a modern layout with new finishes, there are opportunities for that too.

With a mix of old and new, Fulton offers a unique blend of history and modern convenience.

Home Prices: A Bargain Compared to Linden Hills? 💰📉

While Fulton is a sought-after neighborhood, it actually offers more value compared to its neighbor, Linden Hills. Here’s how they compare:

Fulton’s average home price: $690,000
Linden Hills’ average home price: $982,000

For buyers looking to be near Lake Harriet and 50th & France, Fulton provides a more affordable way to enjoy everything this area has to offer.

A Highly Walkable Neighborhood with Great Restaurants 🍽️☕

One of Fulton’s biggest selling points is walkability. Whether you’re heading out for coffee, a bite to eat, or boutique shopping, there’s plenty to explore right in the neighborhood or just beyond its borders.

Neighborhood Favorites:

Broders’ Pasta Bar – Some of the best Italian food in the Twin Cities. 🍝
Tinto Kitchen – A Latin-inspired eatery with delicious flavors. 🌮
Colita – Inventive Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails. 🍹
50th & France – A shopping and dining hub with even more options. 🛍️

Having these amazing restaurants and shops within walking distance adds to the charm and convenience of living in Fulton.

Convenience: Easy Access to Downtown & MSP Airport 🚗✈️

Fulton is in a prime location for commuters and travelers alike. You can get to:

Downtown Minneapolis – About 15 minutes by car.
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) – Around 15-20 minutes away.

Whether you work in the city or travel frequently, Fulton offers easy access to major destinations without sacrificing neighborhood charm.

Grocery Stores & Essentials Nearby 🛒

Living in Fulton means having several grocery stores within a short drive:

Lunds & Byerlys (50th & France) – A high-end grocery store with excellent selection.
Kowalski’s Market (Kenny Neighborhood) – A great spot for fresh, local ingredients.
Aldi (Penn Ave, Richfield) – Budget-friendly shopping nearby.
Whole Foods (Edina) – For organic and specialty foods.

With multiple options, grocery shopping is both easy and convenient in this area.

Schools: Top-Rated Public Education 🎓

For families moving to Fulton, the local public schools are a major advantage. The neighborhood is served by:

Lake Harriet Lower & Upper Schools (Elementary)
Southwest High School – Consistently ranked among the best high schools in Minneapolis

These schools have strong academic programs and great community support, making them a big draw for families considering a move to the area.

Final Thoughts: Is Fulton Right for You? 🤔

With its proximity to Lake Harriet, historic charm, walkability, and great schools, it’s easy to see why Fulton is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Minneapolis. Whether you’re looking for a classic early 1900s home or a new build, this neighborhood offers options for every lifestyle.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Fulton or anywhere in the Twin Cities, I’d love to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions.

📩 Contact me today to learn more about real estate in Minneapolis!

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