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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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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!
Top 5 Reasons to Downsize and How it Can Save You Money
Did you know that 80% of homeowners don’t realize the incredible benefits that come with downsizing? Moving into a smaller space isn't just about reducing square footage—it’s about simplifying your life and enhancing your financial and emotional well-being. Downsizing could be one of the best decisions you'll ever make, and today, we’re diving into the top 5 reasons why. Downsizing is a big step, but it brings with it the chance to live a more purposeful, fulfilling life. In fact, my husband, Tom, and I made the decision to downsize after living in our home for over 20 years. While it wasn’t an easy choice, it turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. So, what makes downsizing such a smart move? Let’s break it down. 1. Financial Freedom The most immediate and noticeable benefit of downsizing is the financial savings. A smaller home often means a smaller mortgage, lower property taxes, and reduced utility bills. With less money tied up in housing costs, you can put those savings into retirement, travel, or even that next adventure you've been dreaming of. Downsizing is an excellent opportunity to gain financial flexibility and security. 2. Less Maintenance, More Free Time One of the often-overlooked perks of downsizing is the reduction in home maintenance. With a smaller home, there’s less space to clean, fewer repairs to make, and little-to-no yard to maintain. Imagine spending your weekends doing the things you love instead of mowing the lawn or cleaning rooms that barely get used. Downsizing gives you more time and energy to focus on what really matters in life. 3. Simplified Living Downsizing forces you to declutter and evaluate what you truly need in your life. By eliminating excess possessions and unnecessary space, you can focus on what truly matters—whether it’s spending more time with family, pursuing hobbies, or simply enjoying the calm of a streamlined home. Living smaller often means living smarter, prioritizing quality over quantity. 4. Mobility and Flexibility Downsizing doesn’t just mean moving into a smaller home—it means gaining the freedom to live where and how you want. A smaller home is easier to relocate, whether you want to move closer to family, head to your dream location, or travel more frequently. As you age, managing a more compact space becomes simpler, offering greater comfort and convenience in your daily life. 5. Emotional and Environmental Benefits Downsizing doesn’t only make financial and practical sense; it’s also good for the soul and the planet. A smaller home means a smaller carbon footprint and a more sustainable lifestyle, with fewer resources consumed. Additionally, smaller, cozier spaces often foster closeness with loved ones, strengthening family bonds and creating a warm, inviting environment. Downsizing helps you embrace a simpler, more connected life. How to Know If You’re Ready to Downsize So, how do you know if you’re ready for this change? Here are a few signs that it might be time to consider downsizing: Your home feels too large for your current needs. If you have rooms that sit empty or unused, it might be time to move to a space that suits your lifestyle better. You want to reduce your monthly expenses. Downsizing can help you cut costs on your mortgage, utilities, and property taxes, freeing up more money for other priorities. You want to simplify your life. Maintaining a large home can be overwhelming, and downsizing offers a chance to focus on what truly matters. You’re considering a lifestyle change. Whether it’s relocating to be closer to family, moving to a different area, or traveling more often, a smaller home can offer you greater flexibility. You’re interested in living more sustainably. A smaller home means a smaller carbon footprint, reducing your environmental impact. Is Downsizing Right for You? Downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller home—it’s about moving forward to a lifestyle that fits your current and future needs. Whether you’re looking for financial savings, a simpler lifestyle, or more flexibility, downsizing could be the perfect next step. If any of the reasons above resonate with you, it might be time to consider this positive change. At the Truen Group, we’re dedicated to guiding our clients toward living their best life—whether that means finding the perfect home or making the decision to downsize for a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle. If you’re ready to take the next step or need help navigating your options, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Reach out to us today, and let’s start this exciting new chapter together! Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more tips on how to live your best life in the perfect home! Laurie Dick, Truen GroupYour trusted partner in the real estate journey.
The 6 Best Coffee Shops in Stillwater, MN
If you're looking for a great cup of coffee in Stillwater, MN, you're in luck. This charming river town offers an array of fantastic coffee shops that cater to every taste. Whether you're a coffee lover or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, here's a list of the six best coffee shops in Stillwater. Be sure to follow each shop on Instagram and Facebook and check out their websites for more info! 1. MADE Coffee My Favorite! MADE Coffee is a full-service coffee and espresso shop offering unique wood-fire roasted beans that are simply amazing. Conveniently located at the bottom of the Main Street stairs and part of the Lora Hotel, it’s also just kitty-corner from our office—so it’s no surprise this is my absolute favorite spot for a quick cup! If coffee’s not your thing, MADE also offers fresh-pressed juices, tea, and locally made pastries. The shop focuses on quality and craftsmanship, curating single-origin coffee beans and featuring highly skilled baristas. You’re guaranteed an exceptional drink every time! Hours: Every day, 7 AM - 4 PMLocation: 410 S Main St, Stillwater, MN 55082Instagram: @madecoffeeshopFacebook: MADE CoffeeWebsite: MADE Coffee 2. The Daily Grind Established in 1992, The Daily Grind has been a beloved part of the Stillwater community for decades. Megan and Tim, the beloved owners, have created an inviting and unrefined space that feels like home. Known for their kick-ass coffee, bakery items, and breakfast sandwiches, you can enjoy your drink with a stunning view of the St. Croix River from the deck. They offer fun, unique signature drinks and flavors that keep people coming back. Plus, their commitment to sustainability—using eco-friendly practices and supporting local farmers—makes this a must-visit. Hours: Monday-Friday, 6 AM - 7 PM; Weekends, 7 AM - 7 PMLocation: North Main Street (inside Valley Bookseller), Stillwater, MNInstagram: @dailygrindstillwatermnFacebook: The Daily Grind Coffee Shop 3. Art’s Coffee Art’s Coffee offers a cozy spot for coffee and pastries in the heart of Stillwater. What makes them unique? Their drinks come with a little donut on top—what could be better than that! Locals love the unique and cute atmosphere, and it's located next to the famous Nelson’s Ice Cream, making it a perfect stop during your day in town. Hours: Monday-Friday: 6 AM - 4 PM, Saturday-Sunday: 7 AM - 4 PMLocation: 402 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082Instagram: @arts_coffee_hutFacebook: Art’s Coffee HutWebsite: Art’s Coffee 4. You & Me Cafe You & Me Cafe is a quaint, family-owned coffee shop known for its delicious breakfast and lunch options. Their friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make this cafe a community favorite. Located in the Stillwater South Hill neighborhood, it’s a great spot for a casual meal or coffee break. Hours: Monday-Friday: 7 AM - 2 PM, Saturday: 8 AM - 3 PM, Sunday: ClosedLocation: 423 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082Instagram: @youandmecafe.coFacebook: You & Me CafeWebsite: You & Me Cafe 5. Green Bridge Coffee For eco-conscious coffee lovers, Green Bridge Coffee is the go-to spot. They offer organic coffee and a variety of plant-based milk options, along with delicious locally sourced pastries. What makes them even more unique is their partnership with Herman Electric Bikes, providing bike rentals so you can explore the Stillwater area while sipping on your coffee. This shop was established in 2020, and the pairing with the bike rental service launched in 2019. Hours: Monday-Sunday, 7 AM - 3 PMLocation: 417 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082Instagram: @greenbridgecoffeeshopFacebook: Green Bridge CoffeeWebsite: Green Bridge Coffee 6. Mike & Kat’s Other Place This cozy shop is located in Stillwater’s North Hill neighborhood and offers an inviting community-focused vibe. Mike & Kat’s prides itself on exceptional customer service, in-house coffee roasting, and community connection. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee while supporting local businesses. They serve homemade pastries and light breakfast items, making it a great spot for both early risers and those looking to relax in the afternoon. Hours: Monday-Friday: 6 AM - 6 PM, Saturday-Sunday: 7 AM - 5 PMLocation: 529 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082Instagram: @mikeandkatsotherplaceFacebook: Mike & Kat’s Other PlaceWebsite: Mike & Kat’s Other Place Stillwater’s coffee scene has something for everyone, from eco-friendly options to charming neighborhood favorites. Be sure to stop by these spots, grab a coffee, and enjoy all that this beautiful town has to offer!