Saturday, January 30, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Circle Pines, MN Home Sales Statistics



The number of new listings in Circle Pines dropped again in 2009 compared to the previous year. In this small Anoka County community, just north of Shoreview, home sales more homes sold; up over 22% from last year. The average time on the market did drop in Circle Pines from 141 days to 127 days on the market. The average price also fell by over $35,000 which is over 14% lower, than in 2008 making this community that has an abundance of starter homes, even more affordable than last year. The ratio of percent received versus list price is also up for this year to 94%. All in all, the home sales market in Circle Pines, Minnesota appears to be weathering the changed market well.


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Chisago Lakes, MN Home Sales Statistics


There were just a few more closed sales in Chisago during 2009 over 2008 but the average sales price was down significantly for the second year in a row. New listings were down almost 21% over the previous year. Sellers are receiving just slightly less than they did in 2008 with as the accepted sales price ratio compared to list price ratio is down just a bit. At 89% it remains one of the lowest in the north and east metro communities I work in as many communities saw an improvement in this ratio this year. Market time is up significantly to well over 200 days. Buying a home in Chisago City could continue to be a very affordable option as there appears to be plenty of sellers still on the market and willing to negotiate on the list price of their properties.

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Coon Rapids Market Statistics




Coon Rapids, Minnesota homes are sold faster in 2009 than 2008 and more homes were sold too! New listings were down by almost 15% which is a sign that this Anoka County Community is moving closer to a more balanced market. The average sales price did dropped again by over 16% so affordability was evident in Coon Rapids in 2009 but with the lower inventory levels, we could see the average sales price start to level off in 2010. The ratio of original price to received price is down is starting to edge up in Coon Rapids which is good news for those considering selling in 2010.


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Wyoming, MN Market Statistics



The number of new listings was down again for 2009 in Wyoming, Minnesota along with the average sales price of a home in this Southern Chisago County community. Since 2007, the average sales price of a home dropped by over 30%; over 15% last year alone. A high point to the year is that homes are selling at a faster pace with an average of 47 days less time on the market in Wyoming, Minnesota compared to last year. Sellers appear to be getting just over 91% of their asking price which is in line with several other north east metro communities. If you are considering selling your Wyoming home, this might be a good time to list with less inventory on the market to compete with.


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Anoka County Home Buyer? Going at it Alone is A Heavy Load Indeed!


Are you a homebuyer going it alone? A renegade who doesn’t need the support and expertise of a real estate agent…at least not until you have found “THE” house. Is this the best plan to get the best deal on an Anoka County home in current real estate climate?
I read a great blog today that I wanted to share with home buyers (and sellers) in the north and east Twin Cities metro area. Will Nesbitt is a real estate agent in Fairfax, VA. As an arrogant east coast youth with Minnesota’s own Fran Tarkenton as an idol, he challenged his entire neighborhood to a game of football and was CRUSHED! (Read his full posts…The day my neighborhood crushed me. ) Will learned that day the value of having a good team behind you.

Having a good real estate team behind you is a valuable lesson lesson for home buyers too. So...Who is on YOUR team?

  • Do you have an expert REALTOR® to assist you through the home buying process?

  • A good loan officer?

  • An expert housing inspector?

  • A title and closing expert?

  • Septic and well inspector?

  • Are you a skilled negotiator?

  • Do you have neighborhood expertise and know the value of homes in different developments?
How many homes did you buy or sell last year? A good REALTOR® will have assisted in the purchase and/or sale of several. This is expertise that a home buyer going it alone will never achieve. As a REALTOR® I work everyday with buyers and sellers on the purchase and sale of homes throughout Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Blaine and other communities in the Forest Lake school district. It is my job to be a real estate neighborhood expert! And I have a number of great contacts to become a part of YOUR team so you don’t have to go it alone.

Going it alone can seem like a no-pressure way to buy a home, but is flying solo in a home purchase cost effective? Maybe not…Did you know, it doesn’t cost most homebuyers a single penny to have a real estate expert in their corner? But it can cost thousands to work without one. Team up with a REALTOR® who is a neighborhood expert and don’t get crushed by the weight of going it alone.



Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Monday, January 25, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Columbus MN Market Statistics

Home sales are up in Columbus, Minnesota which is well known for its acreage properties but like most neighboring communities, prices are not. In this Anoka County community, just west of Forest Lake, home sales rose over 37% from 2008 to 2009. The average price of a home dropped nearly 11% and fewer homes were listed on the market. Decreased inventory helped sellers to keep more dollars in their pockets during negotiations than in some neighboring communities although the ratio of percentage of list to sale price did go down. With average days on the market also down considerably for the first time in two years, it appears that buyers are making decisions quickly on acreage homes in Columbus, Minnesota.



Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Centerville MN Market Statistics


Centerville, Minnesota came through 2009 without a big change in average sales price. Days on the market are up a bit but still in line with surrounding Anoka County communities. Centerville home sellers are not being hit as hard in the negotiations as indicated by the ratio of original price to sold price going back above 90% in 2009. That is good news for sellers as is new listings being down a bit means less competition. However, Centerville remains an affordable place to call home.



Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of White Bear Township, MN Home Sales Statistics



The stability of real estate in White Bear Township in 2008 unfortunately did not continue into 2009.There were many more sales in White Bear Township, Minnesota in 2008 versus 2009 with closed sales up 40%. This northern Ramsey County township escaped much of the affects of 2008 but could not escape it into 2009. DOM went up a whopping 49% while the average home price dropped over 15%. From 2007 to 2008, prices were only down 3% so this 15% drop was a significant in prices for the area. The average sales price for a home in White Bear Township is now just under $225,000.





Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Remodeling Investments: Bathrooms Continue to be a Good BET!

In this changed market, many homeowners are choosing to stay in their current homes and remodel rather than make a move. But are you concerned that the investment might outweigh the value added to your home? If you are, you would have good reason. There isn’t one remodeling investment that you will fully be able to recoup all of your costs but if you are considering a bathroom remodel for your Twin Cities home, you can expect to recoup a good portion of it.

As a REALTOR®, I have always told homeowners, kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. A recent report from National Association of Realtors (NAR) agrees. While a kitchen or bathroom remodel will not recoup in sales dollars the way it did in years past, both are still important enough to make the
list of the eight quick fixes for home value
. In late December, the NAR released the 2009-2010 Cost VS Value Report for home remodels. This study looked at cost data, resale value and percentage recouped for 25 different projects in 80 housing markets across the United States. With a bath remodel, a homeowner can expect to recoup a good portion of their expenses with a 75.4 percent return on investment for a mid-range remodel (about $62,000) as an average across the US but in Minnesota this ROI percentage drops to roughly 65%. On a lower budget remodel (spending about $16,000) the average American homeowner can expect to see a 71.0i% return while the average Minnesota homeowner will see about 65%. The return on investment is down from studies in previous years but as bathrooms are high on a homebuyer’s priority list, I would say bathroom remodeling is a good investment for future resale. (View all the statistics from the Cost vs. Value Report 2009-2010 for the Mpls/St Paul area..)

Before a considering a bathroom remodel, you need to understand “Why” you are undertaking this project. Do you need a new bathroom because the old layout is not functional? Not enough bathrooms in your home? Or is it because you plan to move and the gold ceramic tile and lemon yellow fixtures from the 1960’s are too ugly to get the best price for the home?

To design the perfect bathroom for your home a lifestyle inventory will need to be taken. This is a process where you ask yourself questions to determine the needs and expectations specific to your family for your family. Here some lifestyle questions to consider:
  • Who and how the bath will be used?

  • One sink or two?

  • Shower and tub combination or just a shower?

  • Storage, electrical outlets and counter space needs.

  • Private areas or completely open?

  • Will there be handicap accessibility needs now or in the future?
If you are looking for resale value, trends are important in bathrooms. Here are some of today’s hot bathroom trends:
  • Spa atmosphere with muted, neutral colors like beige, olive and sand.

  • Multiple mirrorsSoft and natural lighting

  • Subdue shiny fixtures…Chrome is out. Choose warm copper and bronze fixtures instead.

  • Artistic sinks and granite counters

  • Free standing, soaker bath tubs.

  • Heated, ceramic flooring.

  • Separate tub and shower.

  • Furniture-look to cabinetry with wood accents to mirrors, lighting and tubs.

  • Bathroom suite with coffee maker and flat screen.

  • Environmentally friendly products such as low-flow toilets & energy efficient lighting
Another important consideration is handicap accessibility needs whether now or in the future. Options today go way beyond a raised toilet and grab bars in the shower. Larger doorways, easy access lighting, easy entry tubs, roll in showers, sinks that raise and lower with the touch of a button are just some of the new options available to persons with special needs. If you are planning to stay in your home for a significant length of time, it might pay to review some of the exciting new products available. In Minnesota, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with an accessibility builder/remodeler specializing in totally accessible housing. These model homes feature unique products that make life easier and more enjoyable to persons with special needs.
If remodeling specifically to put your home on the market, take into consideration the quality and condition of the home. A good REALTOR® who knows your neighborhood can assist you here. In most cases, costs for a very expensive remodel will not be recouped in the short run. Working with someone who really understands your particular marketplace will help you get your home staged to sell within your budget and sold more quickly.Spending a little extra time in the planning stage can reduce the headaches and heartaches of a construction project that does not meet expectations. Taking your time will allow you to make the wise decisions that add value to your most important financial investment, your home.


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Lino Lakes, MN Home Sales Statistics



The number of closed sales made a dramatic rebound in Lino Lakes, Minnesota in 2009. After an over 25% decline in homes sold in 2008 in the Lino Lakes area, there was a similar resurgence of buyers in 2009. With the lower average price point, this was undoubtedly the result of the first time home buyer tax credit combined with bank owned and mediated inventory on the real estate market. It took about a couple of weeks longer to sell a home in Lino Lakes, Minnesota in 2009 but overall homes were selling in this Anoka County community. The number of new listings was up over 8% during the year, but that does not mean that inventory levels are high. In the lower price points, real estate inventory is very manageable. 


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of White Bear Lake, MN Home Sales Statistics




Like most other communities in the north east Twin Cities metro, White Bear Lake has seen more closed sales but at lower prices in 2009 compared to 2008. In this Northern Ramsey County city home sales dropped just over 16%; that’s almost 30% over a two year period! Inventory levels are going down as there are just slightly less (4.1%) of new listings that came onto the market this past year. The average days-on-the-market statistic is down by 10% so homes are starting to sell faster in White Bear Lake. The bulk of sales has been in the lower price points as nearly 67% of all homes closed in 2009 were sold for less than $200,000. Another 27% were sold for prices in the $200,000-$300,000 range. Traditional sellers considering a move up in White Bear have an opportunity this year as there are so few starter homes but many higher valued homes to select from. 
 

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm  

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Forest Lake, MN Home Sales Statistics


The sold signs are going up faster on homes in the community of Forest Lake Minnesota in 2009 compared to 2008 but the amount they are getting for the homes is significantly less than previously. The average sales price of a home was down nearly 28% this past year for this north Washington County/east Anoka County community. One explanation; Frustrated sellers of high end lakeshore homes continue to wait for a sale as first time buyers scoop up deals on the lower end of the market in order to get the expiring tax credit. More closed sales means the inventory is down overall.


 

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm

Year End 2009 Snapshot of Ham Lake, MN Home Sales Statistics




This past year homes sold in higher numbers but at lower prices in Ham Lake, Minnesota a community synonymous with acreage properties. In this eastern Anoka County city home sales were up a whopping 36.8% in 2009. No doubt the first time home buyer credit got things moving after 2 years of lackluster sales activity. New listings were down pretty significantly at 12.7% less than in the previous year showing progressive movement toward a balanced market. The average days on the market dropped a few days to just below from 184 to 176, which is not significant. The average price of a home sold did drop quite a bit again this year. It is 15.8% lower than in 2008, combine that with an 11.7% drop in 2007, Ham Lake values have decreased over 25% in two years. Sellers need to be aware that buyers are looking for and buying acreage homes but don’t want to pay 2003-2007 prices.
Looking for a breakdown of Ham Lake 2009 home sales by price point? CLICK HERE for Detailed Ham Lake Statistics

 

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

2009 Year End Snapshot of Andover Market Statistics



Closed sales are up once again in Andover in 2009. A 21% increase of closed sales shows that homes are selling again in this Anoka County suburb. However, the down side is that average price has dropped again by almost 11%. An average sale in Andover is just under $220,000 down by 8.7%. This is probably a combination of the trend for many lender-mediated sales with few high valued homes sold this past year anywhere in the Twin Cities metro. A good point is that in this Anoka County community is time on the market has stayed flat this year. While it would be better to see homes start to sell more quickly as many neighboring communities did, it is still good that the market time did not increase in 2009. Home buyers can still view Andover as one of the affordable options in the Twin Cities north metro!



Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm 

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

2009 Year End Snapshot of Blaine Market Statistics




The number of new listings continued to drop in Blaine, Minnesota through 2009 as did the average sales price. Blaine’s high valued home market in prices $500,000 and up continues to be at a standstill but lender mediated foreclosure/short sale homes in the lower price points continue to sell and affect the average sales price. Closed sales are up for Blaine in 2009 over 2008 so the market is seeing activity. Listings are staying on the market just slightly less this year than the previous year. Blaine has sold through most of its current home inventory as it was an affordable option for buyers in the north metro homebuyer. With less than 3 months of inventory in the lower price points, 2009 might be the year for a traditional seller with a starter home to have the opportunity to move up.  

*Does not take into account time on the market or list price from previous listing contracts.
*Based on data from the Minneapolis Association of Realtors and data reported to the Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc.


 
Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Remodeling Investments for 2010: Kitchens Still Have Sizzle!


Home in need of an update but the current real estate market has you questioning what to spend on the investment? If this sounds like you, you are in very good company! Many people are itching for a change in environment but are opting to remodel rather than move. But what the “what ifs” start creeping in too…Will I ever get the money back out of the remodel? Will the investment outweigh the value added to the home? If you are considering a kitchen remodel, it still could be good choice.

The statement “Kitchens and Baths sell homes” is second only to “Location, Location, Location” in the real estate playbook. Okay we don’t really have a playbook but the annual Cost VS Value Report for home remodels consistently shows that a higher percentage of funds used for a kitchen, bath or basement remodel will be recouped on a sale than most other remodeling projects. In late December, the NAR released the 2009-2010 Cost VS Value Report for home remodels. This study completed by Remodeling Magazine, looked at cost data, resale value and percentage recouped for 33 different projects in 80 housing markets across the United States. Minnesotans have to be a bit more cautious about remodels than in other areas of the country as our value of specific remodels are trending downward. If a homeowner does a major, mid-range kitchen remodel, he can expect to recoup about 64.3% of their expenses which is lower than the national average of 72.1% percent return on investment. A minor kitchen remodel, spending roughly $21,400 in Minnesota will be recouped at a rate of 69.4% again this is less than the national average of 78.3% but a reasonable return. (View all the statistics from the Cost vs. Value Report 2009-2010 for the Mpls/St Paul area.)

Before undertaking a kitchen remodel it is best to understand the “Why” of the project. Is it because your home-sweet-home is perfect except for a kitchen so small that people trip over each other on the way from the refrigerator to the table? Or is it because you want to move and the 1980’s country blue counter and white department store brand appliances have seen better days and should be put out to pasture? The approach to the perfect remodel will be different if you are planning to stay in the home for the long term.
Take a Family Lifestyle Inventory
If you are designing the perfect kitchen for your family, take a lifestyle inventory. This is a process where you answer questions to understand what will be the most important needs specific to your family for the new space. It will help you and your designer to incorporate important details into your plan.
Consider cooking habits:
  • One cook or two?

  • Baker?

  • Left-handed?

  • Do you do dishes as you cook?

  • Lots of Gadgets?

  • Buy in Bulk?

  • One oven or two?
Consider eating habits:
  • Family gatherings?

  • Everyone for themselves?

  • Eat outdoors?

  • Need morning sunshine?

  • Entertaining?
Other Considerations:
  • Flat screen TV in kitchen?

  • Computer or home office needs?

  • Homework?

  • Laundry?

  • Recycling?

  • Will the family grow?

  • Older relatives?

  • Handicap Accessibility requirements?
All of these are things to consider when making a decision on whether and how to remodel your kitchen. Work with a designer or use a remodeling design software that will take into account the important specific needs of your family.
Hot Trends for Today’s Kitchens
For a remodel to add value at resale, you must consider current needs and trends. So what are the hot for trends for kitchens today?
  • Ceramic tile back splashes—One of the cheapest and best ways to update a kitchen!

  • Open to Family Room or Great Room

  • Custom cabinetry in a variety of heights with lots of moldings and unique woods…Maple and Cherry are preferred to Oak.

  • Appliances with Energy Star ratings.

  • Energy saving induction cook tops separate from ovens.

  • Green flooring choices like bamboo, cork and eucalyptus.

  • Sinks with instant hot water systems.

  • Pantries and abundant, easy access storage

  • Multiple types of lighting (bright to work, indirect for mood). Avoid track lighting.

  • Windows for Natural Light

  • Quartz-based granite-like counters in products like Cambria, Silestone and Zodiac, for counters and islands, as health conscious people trend away from granite. Too expensive to do the whole kitchen in quartz? Consider just the island in the expensive stuff and do the rest of the kitchen counter in a granite tiles or a complimentary colored laminate.
Stick to Your Budget
Take it from someone who just completed a minor-kitchen remodel this past year, can be easy to get caught up in the remodeling process and go over budget. Take time from the start to reflect on your family’s needs and reasons for the remodel. Consider options that make the most sense for your family, budget and neighborhood. Make certain that the kitchen isn’t designed and constructed at a quality far beyond the value of the rest of the home. Remember remodeling for family use tends to cost more than a remodel for resale.
If remodeling specifically to put your home on the market, go for the minor remodel and take into consideration the quality and condition of the rest of home. Remember you will not recoup 100% of your investment. The changes are being made to make the house more saleable in a down market. A good REALTOR® will give you the best advice as to what is necessary and what is over the top. If you are in an upscale neighborhood where homebuyers will expect high-end quality, don’t make discount-store decisions. Likewise, if your home is in an area of modest or lower value homes, skip the granite and go with an upgraded-laminate to replace dated counters. Understanding the market place you live in will help make the best choices to recoup the most from your investment.
Spending a little extra time in the planning stage can reduce the headaches and heartaches of a construction project that does not meet expectations. Taking your time will allow you to make the wise decisions that add value to your most important financial investment, your home.
 

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Friday, January 8, 2010

Is Two—O—One—O a Dyslexic Zip for Beverly Hills? No...It's an Opportunity to Change Yours!



A local television station raised an interesting question. Should the New Year be pronounced “twenty-ten”, “two thousand and ten” or “Two-O-One-O”. Frankly, the latter struck me as a dyslexic pronunciation of an eighties TV show revolving around a Beverly Hills zip code. But no matter how you say it, 2010 will be a fantastic year for a person to change their zip code…At least it will be in Minnesota.

Here are a few of the reasons 2010 should be a great year to make your move to a Minnesota home:



  1. Affordability—In Minnesota, homeowners get more bang for their buck. The affordability index was off the charts for most of 2009. Many buyers took advantage of this and are now happy homeowners but there are still many great opportunities available.

  2. Low Interest Rates—Yep, they are still unbelievably low but these low rates cannot last forever. As interest rates creep up, affordability will decrease.

  3. Extended and Expanded Tax Credit—The tax credit originally scheduled to expire has been extended until April 30, 2010 and expanded to include people who already own homes or have recently sold. For additional information on the extended and expanded tax credit CLICK HERE.

  4. Selection—Though the number of MLS-listed homes is down from the record high inventory of early 2009, there is still a good selection of homes in every price point across the Twin Cities. Whether you are looking at a foreclosure to fix up or a lakeshore paradise, there are many options available.

 
Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

White Bear Lake, MN Year End Real Estate Market Statistics 2009



Just about everyone who grew up in the Twin Cities north metro is familiar with the White Bear Lake community. Whether your memories are of passing the iconic gigantic white bear statue at Polar Chev, swimming at Bellaire beach or setting sail across White Bear Lake, everyone seems to know the area. But few know the legends that surround the lake and that Manitou Island is at the center of it all. The legend has been documented by several writers but the most notable was Mark Twain who wrote of the Indian warrior who killed the great monster of a polar bear to save himself and his lover in his book, “Life of the Mississippi”.

Legends aside, today the
White Bear Lake community is a vibrant area that is continually growing while preserving its rich heritage. While the shores of White Bear Lake are the most well known as one of the largest lakes in the north metro as it spreads from Ramsey County into Washington County , there are two other lakes in the community: Birch Lake and Goose Lake. The community is home to White Bear Lake School District #624 and Century College encompassing 11 square miles of land. Real estate opportunities include both historic homes and more recently constructed residences. First time buyers, executive home buyers, retiring downsizers and luxury lakeshore buyers have a wide variety of options if the choose to call White Bear Lake home.

Single family home inventory levels are at very manageable levels in the City of White Bear Lake. In the price category under $200,000, there is under 3 months worth of homes currently listed as we start January. There is just under 6 months of absorption for homes priced from $200,000-$300,000, while it will take just over a year to sell all the homes listed in the $300,000-$500,000 price range. Things are not quite so rosy for the beautiful lakeshore and executive homes in the half-million plus category. At the current rate of sales, it will take over 3 years before all of the current listings sell .

White Bear Lake townhomes are selling a slightly slower pace. There is just under a 6 month absorption rate for townhomes and condos priced under $200,000 while it will take about a year to sell the current inventory of homes in the $200,000-$400,000 range. But high-end townhomes and condos are in the same predicament as with single family homes as they have about 3 years of inventory to sell through at the current rate of sales.

2009 Average Sales Price of all homes sold in White Bear Lake:
All Homes $186,735
Single Family Homes $192,195
Townhomes/Condos $150,823

2009 Average Cumulative Days on Market in White Bear Lake:

All Homes 146
Single Family Homes 133
Townhomes/Condos 153
Year End White Bear Lake residential real estate statistics for single family homes:
Under $200,000~ 36 Active Listings, 11 Pending Listings, 161 Sold Listings, 112 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 0 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold, 246 CDOM)
$200,000-300,000~34 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 67 Sold Listings, 162 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 2 Active, 0 Pending, 2 Sold, 301 CDOM)
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 11 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 8 Sold Listings, 214 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 1 Active, 1 Pending, 1 Sold, 325 CDOM)
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 3 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listings, 149 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 2 Active, 0 Pending, 0 Sold)
$500,000-$1,000,000~ 8 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 3 Sold Listings, 118 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 7 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold, 13 CDOM)
$1,000,000 and Up ~5 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, 901 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup 5 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold, 901 CDOM)
Year End White Bear Lake residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:
Under $200,000~ 24 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 54 Sold Listings, 188 CDOM
$200,000-300,000~ 6 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 5 Sold Listings, 351 CDOM
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 3 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 5 Sold Listings, 198 CDOM
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 4 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, 708 CDOM
$500,000-$1,000,000~ 1 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, 52 CDOM
For additional information on any current White Bear Lake real estate listing or for additional information on buying a home in Blaine contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.
**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/09 through 12/30/09.
 
 
Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Frugal Resolutions~~Save Your Way to a New Home!


As we celebrate the beginning of 2010 many are asking, “How will I ever be able to afford a new home, new car or vacation?” I was taught by my grandmother, if you take care of the pennies, they will become dollars. The New Year is a perfect time to assess spending habits and make a few frugal resolutions. Here are few ideas of where waste could be occurring in everyday spending. By making a few small changes now, you could build a big down payment by 2011!

  1. Brownbag It! The average American spends an average of $6 when they go out to lunch at work. I don’t remember a lunch out with the girls to be less than $10 myself. But if you chose to brown-bag at lunchtime, the average cost drops to $2! That works out to $4 a day, $20 a week, or over $1,000 a year.

  2. Check it Out at the Public Library People forget all of the publications that are available in the public library. A person can save on books, magazines, and DVD rentals. If your family buys an average of 2 books, 2 magazines and 3 DVD rentals a month, that can add up to nearly $500 a year. If you are like my family and like to OWN your books and DVD’s, consider buying at a used book stores where prices are 50% off the list price.

  3. Ask for Discounts Most people would never consider paying sticker price for a car but forget to ask about discounts and sales at other stores and restaurants. If you belong to AAA or employed by an organization offering a MERSC discount, this can save $3-5 and more on every day purchases like oil changes, haircuts and lift tickets at Wild Mountain. Many companies provide discounts but only for those customers who request them. The total annual savings can be significant depending on the number of offers that your family takes advantage of.

  4. Declutter and Sell Don’t wait to spring clean! Go through your closets, garage, basement and attic now and find the items you no longer use. In the spring have a garage sale. Or locate stores which buy and sell used merchandise for cash or will do consignment sales on EBay for you. My family has held periodic garage sales over the years and sold hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars of unwanted stuff during each sale. We pack up what hasn’t sold and donate the rest to charity. A clean house, money in our pockets and a donation to boot…what more can you ask for?

  5. Print and Clip Coupons Many store have coupons and discounts online that other shoppers are not aware of. By registering for emails from favorite stores and restaurants, we save hundreds of dollars a month at stores shop at regularly. SuperTarget has weekly coupons that you can select and print to take to the store for additional discounts. Sometimes the price is discounted so much it is nearly given away for FREE. A local Forest Lake and Ham Lake favorite, Mansetti’s emails a new coupon to registered customers weekly to print out and bring in. My family is also registered with TGIFriday’s in their Give Me More Stripes program which sends out coupon special s in a similar way. It may seem like only a few dollars here and there but when I tracked our savings for a few months, it was several hundred dollars EACH month!

  6. Shut off the Lights…And Turn Down the Heat! If you haven't already switched over to lower energy, long lasting light bulbs, now is the time. By installing a programmable thermostat in your home, you can save gas by having the heat turned down automatically when you are not home. When we first had a programmable thermostat installed decades ago, we saw a 25% drop in our heating bill! Pretty significant money was kept in our budget.

Simple changes in your shopping patterns and daily life can mean huge money in your bank account over time. And then you can use the money for that trip to Hawaii, new car or as a down payment on your new home!

 

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Blaine, MN Year End Real Estate Market Statistics 2009

Blaine has continued to expand and develop by leaps and bounds in the north metro of the Twin Cities during the past few years. Just drive down Highway 65 and see the Main Street (125th) overpass as well as several others in different phases of construction and all of the new retail establishments to get an idea of how the changes have affected the community. Though housing construction slowed during 2009, it has not completely stopped. New developments have continued to expand the housing base, especially in the townhome and lower level price points. Conveniently located along 35W and Highway 65 and connected by Highway 10 just north of the Twin Cities, Blaine is an attractive location for both business and residential development. The community is served by three school districts; Anoka Hennepin District #11, Centennial District #12, and Spring Lake Park District #16. Blaine is best known for the National Sports Center a sport and meeting facility that hosts an annual worldwide soccer event and Tournament Players Club golf course where the PGA Senior tour is played every summer.

Builders’ incentives to home buyers have required home sellers to be very competitive with housing prices making homes in the Blaine area. While existing single family homes are holding their own in the competition against builders, it does not appear to be the same case in the existing townhome market. Over 77% of the townhomes sold at prices over $200,000 were new construction. Existing townhome sellers in Blaine really need to be competitive to sell when in competition with a brand new property. Homes remained affordable throughout 2009 and with 874 homes sold, Blaine’s inventory of property for sale is very manageable across all price points. Currently there is 2-6 months of inventory for homes with price points under $500,000 and just under 18 months of inventory for homes priced over $500,000. These are better inventory statistics for Blaine than I have seen in the past 3 years! The overall CDOM statistic at 143 for Blaine is down from 154 in 2008 and is significantly better than any of the surrounding communities in the north metro such as Forest Lake, Lino Lakes and Ham Lake.

The townhome and condominium market has exploded in Blaine and builders have pulled out all the stops bringing pricing down. There is considerably less new construction townhome inventory on the market with about 7 months of inventory compared with 18 months at the end of 2008 and nearly 3 years of inventory in 2007. Existing townhome sellers have their work cut out for them as they continue to sharpen their pencils and make their prices very attractive. Pricy existing executive townhomes listed over $500,000 are currently at a standstill with 5 listed homes and no buyers in the past year.

2009 Average Sales Price of all homes sold in Blaine:

All Homes $195,793
Single Family Homes $215,361
Townhomes/Condos $150,823

2009 Average Cumulative Days on Market in Blaine:

All Homes 143
Single Family Homes 140
Townhomes/Condos 153

Year End Blaine residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $200,000~ 78 Active Listings, 35 Pending Listings, 331 Sold Listings, 117 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 3 Active, 9 Pending, 4 Sold, 256 CDOM)

$200,000-300,000~80 Active Listings, 13 Pending Listings, 172 Sold Listings, 132 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 22 Active, 4 Pending, 36 Sold, 136 CDOM)

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 29 Active Listings, 10 Pending Listings, 63 Sold Listings, 217 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 13 Active, 4 Pending, 30 Sold, 239 CDOM)

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 11 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 27 Sold Listings, 284 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 3 Active, 2 Pending, 9 Sold, 259 CDOM)

$500,000-$1,000,000~ 23 Active Listings, 5 Pending Listings, 16 Sold Listings, 272 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 9 Active, 3 Pending, 5 Sold, 135 CDOM)

$1,000,000 and Up ~1 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings (All existing homes)

Year End Blaine residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:

Under $200,000~ 87 Active Listings, 22 Pending Listings, 243 Sold Listings, 147 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 17 Active, 0 Pending, 48 Sold, 241 CDOM)

$200,000-300,000~19 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 12 Sold Listings, 276 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 10 Active, 2 Pending, 11 Sold, 252 CDOM)

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 5 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 7 Sold Listings, 259 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 5 Active, 0 Pending, 4 Sold, 361 CDOM )

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 0 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 3 Sold Listings, 359 CDOM (New Construction Subgroup 0 Active, 0 Pending, 2 Sold, 410 CDOM)

$500,000-$1,000,000~ 5 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings (No New Construction activity)

For additional information on any current Blaine real estate listing or for additional information on buying a home in Blaine contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.
**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/09 through 12/30/09.


If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet , Homebuyers Success Packet or sign up for Listingbook Twin Cities Home Search. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.



Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Lino Lakes, MN Year End Real Estate Market Statistics 2009

Like much of the real estate in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, Lino Lakes, MN in Anoka County has seen reduced inventory and increased market times in 2009. This year nearly twice as many properties sold but the average selling price was directly affected by the bank owned and lender mediated properties on the market. Traditional homes had longer market times but properties were selling throughout the Lino Lakes area.

Though Lino Lakes has a good mixture of lakeshore, acreage and townhome residences but is more known for having a bit of space between the houses. It conveniently located near the junction of the 35E and 35W split, just north of the Twin Cities, Lino Lakes is a 33 square miles treasure. With 13 lakes and acres of beautiful protected wetland, the community is served by three school districts;
Centennial District #12, Forest Lake District #831, and White Bear Lake District #624. The gem attraction is the pristine 2,700-acre Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve is situated within the heart of the city. Lino Lakes is committed to maintain this treasure and its natural settings and wildlife habitats for years to come.

The year end numbers for Lino Lakes sales show area homes were selling slower than last year with an average of 170 cumulative days on the market (CDOM) for sold properties compared with 160 CDOM in 2008. But current inventory levels are much lower than last year. Looking at homes priced under $300,000, there is about 4-5 months of inventory. This time last year, there were nearly 12 months of inventory in this price category.

And the lower inventories are also in higher price points too. Based on the year end statistics, it will now take about 6 months to sell the current inventory of homes with a $300,000-$400,000 price tag. This is down considerably in Lino Lakes from last year when the inventory level hovered around the 12 month mark for absorption. In the $400,000-$500,000 we are just under that one year time period for absorption while over half a million homes there is about 3 YEARS of inventory. While this is not ideal, it is certainly with in the norm when compared to surrounding Anoka County areas.
2009 Average Sales Price of all homes sold in Lino Lakes:
All Homes $229,622
Single Family Homes $251,780
Townhomes/Condos $150,266
2009 Average Cumulative Days on Market in Lino Lakes:
All Homes 170
Single Family Homes 174
Townhomes/Condos 150

4th Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $200,000~ 10 Active Listings, 3 Pending Listings, 49 Sold Listings, 155 CDOM
$200,000-$300,000 ~ 32 Active Listings, 3 Pending Listings, 57 Sold Listings, 180 CDOM
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 16 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 33 Sold Listings, 192 CDOM
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 9 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 10 Sold Listings, 167 CDOM
$500,000 and Up~ 11 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listings, 262 CDOM

Year End 2009 Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:
Under $200,000~ 23 Active Listings, 6 Pending Listings, 39 Sold Listings, 143 CDOM
$200,000-300,000~5 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings, 258 CDOM
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 0 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings, 165 CDOM

Lakeshore available in Lino Lakes3 Active Listings

Lino Lakes lakeshore price range: $595,000-$1,118,000
1 Home on Amelia Lake
2 Homes on Reshanau Lake

Acreage properties available in Lino Lakes

16 properties listed on 1-3 Acres priced between $126,000-$595,000.
7 properties listed on 5-10 Acres priced between $300,000-$805,000
1 property listed on 29 Acres priced at $749,000
1 property listed on 80 Acres priced at $6,000,000
For additional information on any current Lino Lakes real estate listing or for additional information on buying a home in Lino Lakes contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.
**All Statistical information sold based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/09 through 12/31/09.
 


Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Forest Lake, MN Year End Real Estate Market Statistics for 2009

Forest Lake, Minnesota is well known throughout the Twin Cities area. Many people from the city remember the northeast St. Paul suburb fondly from years gone by as a summer vacation spot, an annual ice fishing tournament tradition or as a destination when going for a Sunday a drive in the country. Today, the lakeside cabins have been replaced with year round residences, the fishing tourney is but a memory and the farms are few and far between in this third ring St. Paul suburb. The northern Washington County and east Anoka County community of Forest Lake is now considered an integral part of the Twin Cities.
Real estate in Forest Lake, MN did sell well in 2009 especially in the lower price points. A total of 309 properties sold in the Forest Lake Area during 2009. Roughly two thirds of these sales, 201 properties, were single family homes while the other 108 were townhomes, condos or twin homes. This number is up from the 259 homes sold in the Forest Lake area in 2008.
The Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) Statistic ran at 160 days for all homes sold during the year. This is a 12 % decline in market time from last year’s CDOM stat of 181 for all properties sold in the Forest Lake area in 2008. Not as positive of news is that the average price of homes did see a significant drop from 2008 to 2009. The average price of a home sold in Forest Lake was $239,819 in 2008 but in 2009, that average was 26% lower with an average home price of $176,776.
Not surprisingly, the price category of under $200,000 is the high point with 210 properties sold during 2009 (107 Single family homes and 103 townhomes/condos). The $8000 tax credit really made an impact in the Forest Lake market as the first time buyer homes under $200,000 really moved quickly in 2009. Inventory is very manageable under $200,000 with just 3 months of currently listed homes available for sale. Though homes in the $200,000-300,000 category in are selling a bit slower, 8 months worth of inventory is very manageable. As is the 10 months of inventory in the $300,000-400,000 price range of homes. Even in the $400,000-500,000 priced homes have seen drop in inventory levels to where there is just over a year’s worth of inventory.

However, as in 2008, the high end homes struggled for sales throughout 2009. Homes over $500,000 remain at a near standstill with only ONE home over half a million SOLD in the Forest Lake area in all of 2009. As most lakeshore homes fall into this category, there is an abundance of high valued lakeshore homes to select from in the Forest Lake area. With one sold in the past 12 months and 23 active listings over $500,000,
it will two DECADES for all the homes to sell at this pace.
What does this mean for the home buyer? Homes were well priced in Forest Lake during 2009 so there was a dramatic reduction in the number of listings to choose from. Homebuyers in 2010 will have to make quick decisions on homes in Forest Lake that appear to be good values. Lakeshore and acreage properties priced under $500,000 are selling again, with an average market time of 5-6 months so it is important to be prepared to buy when the right property comes onto the market.

A buyer looking to purchase high-end lakeshore in the Forest Lake area, is in the driver’s seat in 2010! With so much inventory, high-end lakeshore sellers will need to be flexible on pricing if they want a SOLD sign on their home any time soon. NOW might be the perfect time to negotiate a GREAT deal on a lakeshore home! The inventory is awesome…35 lakeshore homes are currently active; some are at attractive and affordable price points. Many have been on the market for several months. With the continued amazing low interest rates, the extended and expanded homebuyer’s tax credit and few buyers willing to consider buying frozen lakeshore, it could be a great time to negotiate a deal on your piece of Minnesota shoreline!

2009 Average Sales Price of all homes sold in Forest Lake:

  • All Homes $176,776
  • Single Family Homes $209,778
  • Townhomes/Condos $122,799
2009 Average Cumulative Days on Market in Forest Lake:
  • All Homes 160
  • Single Family Homes 157
  • Townhomes/Condos 164
Year End 2009 Forest Lake real estate statistics for single family homes:
Under $200,000~ 27 Active Listings, 12 Pending Listings, 107 Sold Listings, 136 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 0 Active, 0 Pending, 6 Sold)
$200,000-$300,000 ~ 33 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 60 Sold Listings, 169 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 4 Active, 1 Pending, 5 Sold)
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 17 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 25 Sold Listings, 209 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 3 Active, 0 Pending, 8 Sold)
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 10 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 8 Sold Listing, 188 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 7 Active, 0 Pending, 3 Sold)
$500,000 and Up~ 23 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings 306 CDOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 18 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold)

Year End 2009 Forest Lake residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:

Under $200,000~ 30 Active Listings, 11 Pending Listings, 103 Sold Listings, 163 CDOM
$200,000-300,000~8 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listings, 78 CDOM

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 4 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, 79 CDOM
For additional information on any current Forest Lake real estate listing or for additional information on buying a home in Forest Lake contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.
35 Active Lakeshore available in the Forest Lake area:

Price range: $189,900-$2,600,000

  • 32 Homes on Forest Lake
  • 1 Homes on Clear Lake
  • 2 Home on Comfort Lake
**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1 /1/09 through 12/31/09.

Copyright 2010 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Friday, January 1, 2010

Ham Lake, MN Year End Real Estate Market Statistics for 2009

The City of Ham Lake has a rich history. Incorporated in 1974, Ham Lake became a city after over a hundred years of humble but steady growth. The area was first settled in 1855 by a group of Scottish men on the southwest side of Ham Lake. Though, I can only assume that the lake itself got its name due to its unusual “ham hock” shape, the community started out with a different name. The original name of the community was Glen Carey, which is the Scottish translation of “beautiful valley”. Following a prairie fire in 1857, the first settlers moved but the community was resettled again. The new Scandinavian settlers had a hard time with the pronunciation of Glen Carey and soon the fledging community was known as Ham Lake. Anoka County officially was recognized it as a township in 1871. In the early 1900’s Central Avenue (Highway 65) was a slow commute as it was a wagon trail through the sand and swampland. And we think going through stop light after stop light slows traffic. Though it was graveled and paved at some point, it 1954 before was expanded to four lanes.
Those four lanes are in full use now as more and more people look to buying home on acreage in the Ham Lake area. Though the sluggish real estate market has affected Ham Lake, MN and Anoka County in 2008, homes did sell. Homes are stayed on the market longer with an average Cumulative Days-on-Market (CDOM) of 180 days for homes during 2009 versus 158 CDOM in 2008. Note that CDOM for homes over $500,000 are the only homes with extremely long market times, selling with an average CDOM of 261. The average price of a home sold in Ham Lake in 2009 was $248,424.
While there are 20% fewer homes on the market in Ham Lake now compared to January 2008 (88 versus 110 active listings), homes are continuing to taking a bit longer to sell and even with the $8000 tax incentive for first time home buyers that boosted last year’s market, there continues to be more homes on the market than buyers. But we are making progress. Homeowners considering selling a home in the Ham Lake area must consider the average time to sell a home in the area is approximately 6 months but inventory levels indicate a more complex story depending on the home’s list price.
Inventory levels are manageable for homes under $300,000 with about 6 months of inventory. But inventory levels rise to approximately 12 months in prices between $300,000 and $500,000. While over $500,000 there is about 18 months of inventory in the Ham Lake area. This is much better than how Ham Lake real estate started 2009 where there was upwards of 5 YEARS of inventory in the half million plus properties. Seller have seem to have gotten the message that having a home properly priced and prepared for showings was essential to sell a home in this Anoka County community in 2009.
Year End 2009 Ham Lake residential real estate statistics for single family homes:
Under $200,000~ 26 Active Listings, 7 Pending Listings, 59 Sold Listings, CDOM 175 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 0 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold)
$200,000-300,000 ~ 20 Active Listings, 6 Pending Listings, 45 Sold Listings, CDOM 173 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 1 Active, 0 Pending, 3 Sold)
$300,000-400,000 ~ 24 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 31 Sold Listings, CDOM 186 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 5 Active, 1 Pending, 2 Sold)
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 6 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 9 Sold Listings, CDOM 209 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 1 Active, 0 Pending, 0 Sold)
$500,000 and Up~ 11 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 8 Sold Listings, CDOM 261 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 2 Active, 0 Pending, 4 Sold)
Lakeshore available in the City of Ham Lake 7 Active Listings

Ham Lake lakeshore price range: $135,000-$804,000

4 Homes on Coon Lake
1 Home on Lake Netta
2 Home on Little Coon Lake

Acreage Listings in the City of Ham Lake

  • 38 Properties listed on 1-2 Acres Priced from $67,900-$599,800
  • 16 Properties listed on 2-3 Acres Priced from $113,000-$980,000
  • 7 Properties listed on 3-5 Acres Priced from $145,000-$778,000
  • 3 Properties listed on 5-10 Acres Priced from $249,900-$805,000
  • 2 Properties listed on 1-2 Acres Priced from $241,000-$499,900
**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/09 through 12/31/09.



Copyright 2009 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Rent Continues to Rise in Minneapolis & St Paul MN

The September Rent report just released by ABODO shows te average rate to lease a one bedroom apartment in St Paul to be increasing ...