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Embarking on the journey of buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, we're here to simplify the process for you. From the initial steps to the final closing, our team is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Uncertain about where to begin? Allow us to assist you with the crucial first stages and provide continuous support throughout the entire process.
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The Impact of the 2024 Presidential Election on the Housing Market
With the presidential election around the corner, many are asking: how will it impact the housing market? Election years tend to bring a bit of uncertainty, which can affect the decisions of buyers and sellers. But what does that really mean for the housing market? Here’s a simple breakdown of what typically happens and what experts predict for the months ahead. Election Year Trends: A Temporary PauseHistorically, home sales tend to slow down a bit before Election Day. In fact, a recent study by BTIG found that sales often dip slightly more than usual during this period, which can be especially noticeable for sellers with homes already on the market. Why the slowdown? It all boils down to uncertainty. With nearly a quarter of first-time buyers saying they’re waiting until after the election to make a move, it’s clear that some people prefer to “wait and see” how things unfold. Good News for Sellers: Sales Rebound Post-ElectionHere’s the silver lining: history shows this slowdown is usually temporary. In most election years, home sales pick up quickly once the results are in. In fact, data from past elections reveals that sales increased in 82% of the years following an election. Once people feel more confident about the future, they’re ready to get back to buying and selling. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2025Looking ahead, experts are optimistic about 2025. Home sales are projected to rise from 4.6 million this year to about 5.2 million next year. If you’re thinking of selling, consider getting your home ready to list soon after the election to capitalize on this expected uptick. For buyers, now may actually be a good time to search, as competition is slightly lower. Local Market Update for Stillwater and HudsonIf you’re interested in the latest local market stats, here’s a snapshot of what’s happening in the Stillwater and Hudson School Districts: New Listings: October 2023: Stillwater School District: 97 Hudson School District: 49 Total New Listings in 2023: 146 October 2024: Stillwater School District: 136 Hudson School District: 50 Total New Listings in 2024: 186 September 2024: Stillwater School District: 109 Hudson School District: 53 Total New Listings in 2024: 162 New listings are up 27.40% since last year and up 14.81% since September. Price Changes: October 2023: Stillwater School District: $537,519 Hudson School District: $474,274 Average Price: $505,896.50 October 2024: Stillwater School District: $618,828 Hudson School District: $451,205 Average Price: $535,016.50 September 2024: Stillwater School District: $526,040 Hudson School District: $449,864 Average Price: $487,952 Prices have increased 9.65% since September and are up 5.76% since last year. Average Days to Sell in October: Stillwater School District: 44 days Hudson School District: 40 days Average: 42 days Bottom LineWhile election years can bring a brief pause, the impact on the housing market is typically short-lived. Once the dust settles, we usually see buyers and sellers re-entering the market with renewed confidence. So if you’re waiting on the sidelines, remember: this “pause” might just be an opportunity in disguise. If you found this information helpful and would like to stay updated on the latest market trends, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to guide you toward your best real estate decisions. Additionally, if you’re interested in data for any other area, we would be pleased to provide tailored market insights for you. Data and insights provided by Keeping Current Matters.
Stunning Before & After Bathroom Transformation
When it comes to home renovations, few rooms make as big of an impact as the bathroom. Recently, Agent Kady Kochendorfer and her family decided to take on a complete bathroom renovation in their home, transforming it into a sleek, modern space that not only reflects their current lifestyle but also combines elegance and functionality. The results are nothing short of impressive. The Vision Kady and her family wanted to create a bathroom that felt spacious and inviting, while offering the modern conveniences they needed. The renovation focused on updating nearly every element of the room, except for the vanity, which had been updated earlier. The changes included sleek finishes, thoughtful design choices, and a blend of bold and soothing tones. What Changed Here’s a breakdown of the key updates made during the renovation: New Flooring: The outdated flooring was replaced with a light, modern material that enhances the room's natural light. This new floor not only brightens the space but also serves as the foundation for the sleek aesthetic Kady and her family desired. Modern Shower Drain: A particularly unique feature is the sleek slit drain in the shower. Instead of a traditional drain, the floor is subtly angled, allowing water to flow down the hidden slit. This not only improves functionality but also gives the shower a clean, seamless appearance. Bold Wall Color: The family opted for a moody green wall color, which contrasts beautifully with the light flooring and floods of natural light. This bold choice brings a sense of sophistication and coziness to the room, creating a balanced design that is both striking and warm. Heated Flooring: To add a touch of luxury and warmth, heated flooring was installed. This feature ensures that the bathroom remains cozy even on the coldest days, making it a practical and indulgent update. Open Shower and Freestanding Bathtub: One of the main design goals was to make the space feel larger. The open shower, paired with a freestanding soaking bathtub, creates an airy, spa-like feel. These features not only enhance the overall look of the bathroom but also make it more functional for the family. Updated Trim and Amenities: The final touch was updating the trim and other bathroom amenities to match the new modern style, creating a cohesive design throughout. A Space for the Future This bathroom renovation is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform a space. Kady and her family have achieved a retreat that balances sleek modernity with practical comfort. Whether it’s the luxury of heated floors or the timeless elegance of the moody green walls, every detail in this renovation speaks to their desire for a space that is not only functional but also beautiful. If you’re thinking about transforming your bathroom into a more modern, elegant space, take inspiration from this renovation—sometimes, it’s the little details that make all the difference.
Best Local Events in Stillwater, MN | November 2024
As the crisp autumn air sweeps through Stillwater, MN, November brings a host of exciting local events perfect for everyone. Whether you’re looking to extend the Halloween fun, savor culinary experiences, enjoy movie nights, or learn something new, there’s plenty to do this month. Here’s a look at some of the top events to mark on your calendar. Halloween Party and Costume Contest at The LumberjackStart November off with a spooky bang at The Lumberjack’s Halloween Party and Costume Contest on Saturday, November 2nd. Beginning at 7 PM, this event promises a night full of live music from RJ Graff, dancing, and signature cocktails. The costume contest offers prizes for Best Couple, Spookiest Costume, and Best Individual, with a door raffle to cap off the night. Best of all, the event supports Hometown Hero Outdoors, making it a great opportunity to enjoy a fun night while giving back to the community. Fiesta Friday at The Freight HouseUnwind after a long week at Fiesta Fridays, running through November 2nd at The Freight House. Starting at 4 PM, this lively event is perfect for enjoying $5 tacos, $5 tequila shots, and $2 off margaritas. With scenic views of the river and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to relax with friends and family. Wednesday Wine Dinner at Water Street InnWine lovers, rejoice! Every Wednesday throughout November, the Water Street Inn is hosting its Wednesday Wine Dinner. From 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, enjoy a four-course meal perfectly paired with a selection of wines for $49.95 per person. This event is highly popular, so be sure to make your reservation early for a night of culinary delights and elegant wine pairings. Movies @ Matt’s BasementLooking for a cozy, relaxed evening? Head to Movies @ Matt’s Basement, running every Monday through Wednesday at 6:30 PM. This unique venue features a 120-inch projector screen with comfy seating options like couches and bean bags. Enjoy classics with free popcorn, and don’t forget to try the house-made bubble waffles or boba while you watch. Plant a Prairie Workshop at Camp St. CroixIf you’re interested in sustainability and gardening, don’t miss the Plant a Prairie Workshop hosted by The Prairie Enthusiasts at Camp St. Croix on Saturday, November 9th. From 10 AM to 3 PM, you’ll learn how to convert your garden or yard into a native prairie, perfect for attracting birds and pollinators. Experts will guide you through planting and maintaining a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance prairie. Stillwater is full of charm and adventure this November, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to enjoy festive gatherings, fine dining, movie nights, or hands-on workshops, there’s no shortage of things to do. Be sure to mark your calendar and enjoy everything this beautiful town has to offer! Stay tuned for more local event updates, and we’ll see you out there enjoying the best of Stillwater.
Top 3 Walking Trails in Stillwater, MN for Fall
Walking in nature can reduce stress and boost mental well-being—and there’s no better place to enjoy that than in Stillwater, Minnesota. The fall colors here are absolutely stunning! Whether you’re new to the area, thinking about moving, or you’ve lived here for years, I’m excited to share the top three trails you don’t want to miss this season. 1. St. Croix Crossings Loop Trail First up is the St. Croix Crossings Loop Trail—a 5.4-mile loop that offers incredible views of the St. Croix River. What’s even better? It’s close to home—literally! This trail passes by both our office and my home. You’ll get to cross the new Stillwater bridge, where you can take in breathtaking river views. The trail also winds through downtown Stillwater and over the historic old lift bridge, giving you a full experience of the town’s natural beauty and rich history. Walking this trail in the fall is like stepping into a postcard. You’ll be surrounded by vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, with the peaceful river beside you. It’s perfect for a scenic walk, a good workout, or just to soak up Stillwater’s charm. If you’re thinking about moving here, this trail is a must-do. Locals, does this one make your top three? 2. Browns Creek State Trail Next is the Browns Creek State Trail, a 6.3-mile path that’s all about peace and quiet. Starting (or ending) in downtown Stillwater, this trail follows an old railroad bed, so it’s mostly flat—perfect for an easy walk or bike ride. You’ll find calm creeks, beautiful fall colors, and plenty of wildlife along the way. It’s a relaxing spot to escape the hustle and bustle. This trail is like a little getaway right in town, and it connects to the Gateway Trail if you want to extend your walk or bike ride. If you’re new to the area and want a peaceful, nature-filled experience, add Browns Creek to your list. Locals, how do you rank this one? 3. Arcola Bluffs Trail Finally, we have the Arcola Bluffs Trail. This 2.8-mile loop may be shorter, but the views are some of the best in Stillwater. You’ll get sweeping sights of the St. Croix River and the surrounding bluffs, especially beautiful with the fall colors. The rolling hills and scenic overlooks make this trail feel like a quick adventure with big rewards. The views here never get old! Whether you’re already a Stillwater resident or thinking of moving here, trails like Arcola Bluffs make it easy to fall in love with the area. It’s short but definitely worth it for the stunning scenery. Happy Fall Trails! Thanks for joining me on this tour of Stillwater’s best fall walking trails! Whether you’re visiting, new to the area, or have lived here for years, these trails are a perfect way to enjoy the season. Let me know in the comments which trail you’re excited to check out—or if I missed one of your favorites. Happy fall! 🍂
Hovering 6% Interest Rates – Will They Drop Even More?
If you’ve been waiting to buy a home because of high interest rates, now might be the perfect time to reconsider. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, the current market could be offering a unique window of opportunity—but you’ll need to act fast to take advantage of it. For months, homebuyers have been hesitant, frustrated by rising mortgage rates and increasing home prices. However, the market is starting to shift in a favorable direction. Mortgage rates are trending downward, and this shift creates what can be seen as a 'buyer’s sweet spot.' Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Lower Rates Many potential buyers are waiting for rates to drop even further, but here’s something to keep in mind: as interest rates continue to decrease, more buyers will likely jump back into the market. In fact, a recent survey by Bankrate found that over half of homeowners would be motivated to buy if rates fall below 6%—and we’re close to that threshold! But there’s a downside to waiting. When more buyers enter the market, competition intensifies, and that can lead to bidding wars, especially in areas where housing inventory is already limited. Increased competition often results in higher home prices, which could offset any savings from lower interest rates. So while waiting for rates to dip further might sound like a good idea, it could end up costing you more in the long run. A Window of Opportunity If you’re looking to buy in the Stillwater or Hudson School Districts, local market stats provide a clearer picture of the current landscape: New Listings: The total number of new listings in September 2024 across both districts is 186, down 5.10% compared to 196 in September 2023. However, new listings have increased by 4.49% since August 2024, which had a total of 178 new listings. Stillwater School District: September 2023: 135 new listings September 2024: 136 new listings August 2024: 114 new listings Hudson School District: September 2023: 61 new listings September 2024: 50 new listings August 2024: 64 new listings While there has been a slight drop year-over-year, this uptick from August shows that inventory is starting to recover, offering buyers more options than they’ve had in previous months. Price Changes: Prices are down slightly compared to last year, with the average price in September 2024 at $487,952, a decrease of 1.51% from September 2023's average of $495,448. However, prices have decreased more significantly—by 17.70%—since August 2024, when the average price was $592,924.50. Stillwater School District: September 2023: $573,880 September 2024: $526,040 August 2024: $677,838 Hudson School District: September 2023: $417,016 September 2024: $449,864 August 2024: $508,011 This price dip creates an even more compelling reason to act quickly, as buyers can take advantage of the current reduction in home prices before competition increases. Days to Sell: Homes in the Stillwater and Hudson School Districts are spending an average of 45 days on the market in September 2024, with homes in the Stillwater School District selling in 40 days and those in the Hudson School District taking 50 days to sell. The Bottom Line Timing the market is always challenging, but waiting too long could result in more competition and higher home prices. If you’re thinking about buying, now is a smart time to act. You can take advantage of lower interest rates, increased housing options, and a temporary dip in prices before the market becomes more competitive. If you’re ready to make your move, connect with us today. We’re here to guide you every step of the way toward finding your perfect home.
Jacobs Kitchen Remodel Part 1: A Functional Update to a 1930s Tudor Home
Jacob and Carlee’s journey to remodel their 1930s Tudor-style home started with the need for a major kitchen revamp. When they purchased the home, the kitchen was filled with original cabinetry that had outlived its functionality. The cabinets were very low, the storage space was minimal, and the awkward sizing made it difficult to store modern kitchen essentials. The cabinets weren’t very deep either, a stark contrast to today’s more practical designs. It was clear that they needed a change to make this kitchen both functional and beautiful. On one side of the range, there was a door leading to the hallway—a pathway of wasted space. To create a more efficient layout, they decided to keep the same square footage but maximize its potential. The couple chose Klearvue Cabinetry from Menards for their remodel, drawn by its modular design, allowing them to customize the look and functionality. With different face types to choose from and a sturdy hanging system, it was an easy choice. Plus, the soft-closing doors are a nice touch, ensuring longevity and a modern feel. Of course, working with a 1930s home comes with its own set of challenges. The cabinets didn’t fit perfectly, which led Jacob and Carlee to get creative. They made some custom adjustments, like adding a wine rack to fill a lower space and creating a cookbook nook on the top shelf to make the most of the available room. In addition to the cabinetry, Jacob and Carlee are excited about some of the other updates in progress. Part 1 of this remodel ends with anticipation of what’s next: a brand-new floor and backsplash. They’ve also upgraded their appliances, including a dishwasher—something they didn’t have before and are thrilled about. They also installed a larger sink and even carved out a small coffee station at the end of the counter, adding both convenience and charm. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll reveal the finished floor, backsplash, and some other exciting updates that will complete this beautiful remodel!