Understanding FEMA Home Appraisals & Post-Disaster Improvements

Natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires can leave a trail of destruction. If your home was damaged or destroyed, FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) can help.  If you’re trying to secure FEMA assistance or planning for repairs, it’s important to get an appraisal to understand your home’s value. FEMA home appraisals can help […]

Twin Cities Real Estate: A Market Steeped in History, Culture, and Opportunity

Nestled along the majestic Mississippi River, the Twin Cities—Minneapolis and Saint Paul — are the beating heart of Minnesota. For both homeowners and businesses, the Twin Cities real estate market represents a lifestyle built on a balance of urban sophistication and small-town warmth.  With remarkable demographic and economic growth, the Twin Cities have become a […]

Eminent Domain & the Role of Real Estate Valuations

As a homeowner, the idea of losing your property to eminent domain can be unsettling. Many property owners are left wondering if the compensation they receive is truly fair—or if they have any options to fight the process. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of eminent domain and why an independent real […]

What to Expect for Real Estate in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, a mix of evolving economic factors, shifting demographics, and changing consumer behaviors will continue to define the real estate market. Let’s explore key 2025 real estate trends to watch and what you can expect in the housing market over the next year. Rising Home Sales   The housing market will stay […]

How Often Should I Get a Property Valuation?

How frequently you may need a property valuation report depends on the type of property. In general, here are some property valuation guidelines.  Residential: Every 1-3 years Commercial: Every 1-2 years Agricultural: Every 1-5 years, depending on the nature of the property However, if you’re actively buying, selling, refinancing, or going through any type of […]

Understanding Your Real Estate Valuation Options

When you think of a real estate appraisal, what words come to mind? “Time consuming” and “expensive” are likely toward the top of the list for many.  Appraisals can take a long time — 3+ weeks in many cases. This isn’t ideal in many situations where time is often of the essence, such as during […]

Benefits of Putting a House in a Trust

As you consider long-term estate planning, understanding the benefits of putting your house in a trust is essential.  A trust can provide peace of mind, protect your assets, and simplify the property ownership transition to beneficiaries.  Let’s break down how a trust works and why it’s important.  What Is a Trust and How Does It […]

Date of Death and Alternate Valuation Date: What to Know

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy. On top of the emotional toll, there are many financial and legal matters to sort out.  Knowing your options can help ease the burden during a tough time. One major part of settling an estate is figuring out how much your loved one’s property […]

Valuing Property in a Divorce: What to Know

Divorce is an emotional and challenging time, often marked by difficult decisions and complex negotiations. One of the most significant assets to address is your family home or other real estate properties and investments.  These assets carry not only significant financial value but also deep emotional ties, making the valuation process a critical—and often contentious—aspect […]