Fargo Moorhead Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.jkpropertypartners.com/blog/Copyright JKPropertyPartners.com2023-01-23T11:45:42-07:00tag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:24162Video Tour: Charming Home in Barnesville
This charming 2 bedroom, 1 bath home is in the great community of Barnesville, MN.
The open-concept floor plan includes original hardwood flooring, tons of natural sunlight, a spacious living room, dining area and an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances!
The main floor also includes two large bedrooms with built in storage /closet space and a full bath. The basement features an additional living space, laundry room, office space, and storage with potential to add family room, bedroom and bathroom.
Unattached garage and a large area for off-street parking. This would make a great first home, investment opportunity or a home to downsize. Newer windows, siding, and roof.
Just 30 minutes from Fargo-Moorhead! View the listing here: <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/property-search/detail/210/23-105/815-4th-st-se-barnesville-mn-56514/">jkpropertypartners.com/8154st</a>2023-01-10T11:19:00-07:002023-01-23T11:45:42-07:00Sales Departmenttag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:23899Video Tour: Elegant Timberline Drive Home
This elegant home has beautiful details that can be found throughout the entire home including its elegant arches and columns on the main floor, stunning chandelier, and center staircase in the foyer.
Main floor is complete w/ kitchen, den, a bedroom/office, laundry room, and sunken living room w/ cozy fireplace and large windows.
Kitchen features granite countertops, center island, and SS appliances.
Upstairs boasts 4 bedrooms w/ walk-in closets and 2 bathrooms including the master suite w/ large private bath, double vanity, jacuzzi tub, and walk-in shower.
Large family room in the basement along w/ fireplace, built-in wet bar, bathroom, office/bedroom, garage access, and a storage/utility room.
Three-stall garage, beautifully landscaped, fully fenced backyard, and maintenance-free deck.
View the full listing here: <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/property-search/detail/210/22-5258/4320-timberline-dr-s-fargo-nd-58104/">jkpropertypartners.com/timberline</a>
2023-01-09T08:30:53-07:002023-01-09T09:04:15-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:23880Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
Marc Bushee answers a question we've been getting a lot lately, "is now a good time to buy?" Watch the video above for Marc's explanation!2023-01-06T12:57:36-07:002023-01-06T13:03:52-07:00Sales Departmenttag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:23881Video Tour: Stunning Newly Built Homes In Horace
Move-in ready with $5,000 builder promotion for buyer's closing costs or rate buy down!
Spacious new single-level twin home in Southdale Farms. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, floor heat (including garage) and a sunroom to soak up the rays, this home is one-level living at its finest. No steps provide hassle-free living and wheelchair accessibility.
The large kitchen features a walk-in pantry, wall oven and microwave, rollout garbage, black stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops.
Master suite features a WIC, and a luxurious private bathroom with a roll-in tiled shower, double sinks, and pantry cabinet for added storage.
Other upgrades include 9' ceilings, tankless water heater, electric fireplace, backyard patio, and much more. Washer/dryer and seeded lawn included! Owner/agent.
<a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/">Contact us</a> to learn more!2022-12-09T13:03:00-07:002023-01-06T13:10:55-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:22414Fall Colors - The Best Spots in Fargo-Moorhead!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/MB_Johnson_MHD_RM_22.png" width="771" height="513" />
M.B Johnson Park, Moorhead, MN
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the magical fall foliage. The Fargo-Moorhead metro area has many great locations and public spaces to enjoy all the beautiful fall colors. We put together a list of our favorite spots that we thought you might enjoy too!
Forest River Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-39.png" width="233" height="155" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-40.png" width="233" height="155" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-41.png" width="234" height="156" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-50.png" width="234" height="156" />
If you only have time to visit one location on this list, make it the Forest River Park. This heavily wooded park is a short drive south of Fargo and features beautiful trails, scenic views of the Red River, and a kayak/canoe launch. You can truly get lost in nature and did we mention the beautiful trails? Forest River Park is also known to be a great spot for birdwatching.
Address
500 Forest River Drive
Fargo, ND 58104
Lindenwood Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-42.png" width="237" height="158" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-43.png" width="238" height="158" />
Lindenwood is a large, popular park with many multi-use paths and two playgrounds including a fully adaptive playground for people of all abilities. The park sits along the Red River, and it has a pedestrian bridge connected to Moorhead's Gooseberry Park.
Take the Tree Tour by clicking <a href="https://www.fargoparks.com/sites/default/files/2020-10/lindenwoodpark-treetour.pdf">here.</a>
Address
1905 Roger Maris Drive
Fargo, ND 58103
Armour Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-44.png" width="232" height="154" />
This quiet park is nestled along the Sheyenne River just north of Main Avenue in West Fargo. With mature trees, a large open green space, and a playground this location is a great spot to enjoy the fall colors.
Address
2nd Ave NW and 5th St NW
West Fargo, ND 58102
M.B. Johnson Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-38.png" width="233" height="155" />
Located on the north side of Moorhead this park offers over 2 miles of walking trails and 4 miles of mountain biking trails along the Red River. Take in all the views of the pond, prairie grass, river, and fall colors! With a concrete path, this is also a great spot to take your furry friend for a walk! Other attractions include the recently planted Food Forest with over 100 fruit trees, public water access, and a large picnic shelter.
Interested in public trees around Moorhead? Check out this map by clicking <a href="https://pg-cloud.com/Moorhead/">here.</a>
Address:
3601 11th St N
Moorhead, MN 56560
The Hjemkomst Center
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-46.png" width="231" height="154" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-47.png" width="233" height="155" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-49.png" width="234" height="156" />
From this location, you can access a large trail system leading to many of Moorhead and Fargo’s downtown parks including Moorhead’s Woodlawn Park with the Midtown Dam Floating Bridge (pictured) for beautiful views of the Red River. The Hjemkomst Center features a replica of a Norwegian Viking ship, a wooden stave church, and various other displays that preserve and share the history of Clay County, Minnesota. You can learn more about the Hjemkomst Center and make it a part of your fall adventure by clicking <a href="https://www.hcscconline.org/">here. </a>
<a href="https://www.hcscconline.org/"></a>
Address
202 1st Ave N
Moorhead, MN 56560
North Fargo Neighborhoods
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Pics/Fall_Pics_FM_RM-45.png" width="233" height="155" />
These neighborhoods are desirable for their tree-lined streets; not found in Fargo-Moorhead’s sprawling developments. The mature trees reach across the road creating a beautiful canopy high above the pavement. Take a drive through one of these neighborhoods and you’ll not only admire the beautiful trees but also the stunning and unique architecture. In fact, we have a few homes listed for sale in these neighborhoods right now…check them out by clicking <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/featured-listings/">here.</a>
<a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/featured-listings/"></a>
2022-10-07T05:51:00-07:002022-10-07T13:00:46-07:00Sales Departmenttag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:22352Q&A Market Update | John Knosalla<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/qanda.png" width="750" height="410" />
John joined hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn on the Need to Know Morning Show (heard on Fargo's AM 1100 The Flag WZFG) last week to give an update on the current Real Estate market in Fargo-Moorhead.
Q. The news out this morning is that the interest rates have doubled…
A. “You can’t deny that it is having an effect. I had a client that was ready to buy a home finally. She had been looking and looking. She was approved for a mortgage earlier this year and then we went to write an offer and this one finally got accepted for her. We submit it to the bank and well, she’s not qualified anymore because it (the interest rate) has literally doubled from the time she got approved until now. Fortunately for her, we have been able to work through some alternative mortgage options. Now, a lot of home buyers are choosing the 5- or 10-year adjustable-rate mortgage loans (ARM). This mortgage loan can go up slightly; they usually cap it at 1% over what you lock in and if the rates do drop you can actually refinance the loan and get into your home at a lower rate. We are telling people you are not marrying the rate; you are marrying the house. So, date the rate and marry the house!”
Q. So, what you are saying is that if someone doesn’t qualify for a regular rate right now you may qualify for an ARM. Meaning they are not out of the home buying market just yet?
A. “Yes, the adjustable-rate mortgages are at a more favorable interest rate than your traditional 30-year fixed or FHA fixed rates right now.”
Q. What rate are the ARMs at right now or does it vary?
A. “Roughly 1% under what the prime is right now, just generally speaking. Even with commercial rates, they have not jumped up a ton so if you are an investor buying a second or third home or property those rates are still very favorable around the 4 or 4.5 whereas the traditional 30-year conventional mortgages are upwards of well over 6 now. I have a feeling we are going to be peaking out here. I was at a convention last week and all the people I talked with felt that way. What people have to realize is that all the buyers are very qualified. So, when you hear people saying that the bubble is going to burst or waiting for things to fall out of the sky, that’s not going to happen. People are not going to default as they did in 2008. This is very different from that, and this is not a forever thing. It is going to pause the economy and the growth which is healthy in the long run and to be honest it is giving buyers more options right now.”
Q. When rates go up like this are home values affected?
A. “If you are waiting for the interest rates to actually drop before you buy a house, you are going to be losing money big time in the long run. Like I said you are better off getting in the market now because you are not going to get the fallout rates where all of a sudden, we are flooded with a ton of inventory because people are defaulting.”
Check your home value at <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/fargohomevalues.com" target="_blank">fargohomevalues.com</a> or contact us if you are starting your home search!
Hear John every other Tuesday morning at 7:35 a.m. on the Need to Know Morning Show!2022-10-04T11:12:00-07:002022-10-04T13:30:51-07:00Sales Departmenttag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:220996 Reasons Homeowners Are Selling<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Reasons_to_Sell.png" width="750" height="410" />
Despite what you might hear on the national news, our local economy in Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo is strong, and the proof is in our thriving housing market. Homeowners across the metro area experiencing increased home values, and many are capitalizing on this opportunity by selling with JK Property Partners.
A recent national <a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/2022-summer-sellers-survey/">survey by realtor.com</a> found that found 77% of homeowners who sold in the last 12 months reported selling at or above their list price. That same survey asked homeowners their main reasons for selling. Here’s what they found:
31% Want different features and amenities
29% Home no longer meets their current needs
26% Need a home office
23% Want to live closer to loved ones
22% Want to downsize
17% No longer need to live near their place of employment
Do any of these reasons factor into your decision to sell? Take the first step today and get an estimate of your home’s value for free here by clicking here: <a href="https://webuyfmhomes.com/">instant valuation</a>2022-09-21T07:58:00-07:002022-09-21T08:01:43-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:22071Can I Buy a Home With Student Debt?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Student_Loan_Debt.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
Can I Buy a Home With Student Debt?
A survey from the National Association of REALTORS® found that 51% of non-homeowners are delaying buying a home due to student debt. However, you CAN get a mortgage while still having student debt. Here’s a breakdown of the current student loan situation and a few tips to help make your homeownership dream happen.
President Biden announced in August that he would cancel $10,000 in student loan debt for those earning less than $125,000 per year. This includes an additional $10,000 for those who received Pell grants for low-income students.
Student loan payments have been paused since March 2020 but are scheduled to resume in January 2023.
Here are a few tips that could help make your dream of homeownership happen soon rather than later:
Lower Your Debt-to-Income Ratio.
To calculate your debt-to-income ratio, add up all of your monthly debt payments and divide them by your gross monthly income.
Step 1
- Add up your monthly bills such as:
- Monthly rent
- Monthly alimony or child support payments
- Student, auto, and other monthly loan payments
- Credit card monthly payments (use the minimum payment)
- Do not include other expenses such as utilities, groceries, or taxes.
Step 2
Divide the total by your gross monthly income, which is your income before taxes.
Step 3
Calculate the total which will be in the form of a percentage. A lower DTI is considered less risky for lenders.
You can improve your debt-to-income ratio in three ways: Make more money, spend less money, and pay down your debt. Don’t stress about finding multiple side hustles, just simply live within your means!
Improve Your Credit Score
A credit score is simply a grade based on how well you pay your bills. Pay your bills on time, catch up on past-due accounts, and use less than 30% of your credit limit are just a few things you can do. A great mortgage lender can help guide you through the process of improving your credit score. <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">Reach out</a> to us for a recommendation!
Down Payment Assistance
This program offers loans or grants to help you pay the down payment on a home. There are credit score and income requirements to qualify and, in some cases, you must be a first-time home buyer. The eligibility rules vary so reach out to your trusted mortgage lender for more details.
Co-Borrower
When using a co-borrower, their debt-to-income ratio and their credit history help strengthen your financial qualifications. Most co-borrowers are family members, but they do not need to be related to you. Your lender will just need proof that the co-borrow can pay your mortgage if you don’t.
We Can Help!
It’s not a quick process but it is possible. <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">Reach out</a> to us and we will help connect you with a mortgage lender who can coach you through the process and, as your <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/">Realtor</a>, we will work as a team to help you plan and prepare for homeownership.2022-09-05T09:15:00-07:002022-09-20T09:26:17-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:21868What is Title Insurance?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Title_Insurance.png" width="750" height="410" />
A home is the largest investment that most of us will make in our lifetime. One question that homebuyers often have is “what is title insurance” and “should I buy title insurance.” We answered a few questions below to help you understand how title insurance works.
What is a title?
A title is your ownership right to your property.
What is a tile search?
A title search is a standard part of the home buying process that is conducted to uncover issues that could prevent your right to the property. Your closing agent reviews public records to see if there are problems or defects that could cause you legal issues.
Owner’s Policy
This type of title insurance protects your property rights for as long as you own the home.
Lender’s Policy
This type of title insurance is usually required by the lender and protects only the lender’s financial interests. The buyer typically pays for this policy, but this varies depending on where the home that you are purchasing is located. Check with your Realtor or closing agent to see how it is handled in your area.
Should I purchase Owner’s Title Insurance?
Purchasing owner's title insurance can be a smart decision because it’s the best way to protect your property from future legal claims.
What does Owner’s Title Insurance cost?
The one-time payment for owner’s title insurance is low relative to the value of your home. The typical owner’s title insurance policy costs around 0.5% of the home’s purchase price.
How long does Owner's Title Insurance cover me?
Your owner’s insurance policy lasts as long as you or your heirs own your property.2022-08-22T08:15:00-07:002022-09-21T07:56:43-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:21850The Seven Don'ts of Mortgage Funding<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Mortgage_Funding.png" width="750" height="410" />
So you are buying a home? Congratulations! Here are a few helpful tips to keep your home buying process on track and stress-free!
Don't change your employment status.
Don't make major purchases (cars, furniture, home theater, vacations, etc.).
Don't increase your credit card debt or miss any payments.
Don't change bank accounts or make large undisclosed deposits.
Don't apply for a credit card, co-sign a loan or make a credit inquiry.
Don't spend money you have set aside for closing - not any, not ever.
Don't delay in providing all paperwork asked for by the mortgage company.
Secure the loan - close on your home!2022-08-08T14:28:00-07:002022-09-21T07:57:15-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:22076Get to Know Cyndee Engberg<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Cyndee_Engberg_Blog_Post.png" width="751" height="410" />
Cyndee has spent time in various locations across the U.S. and in three foreign countries, following her father’s military career. She completed her final year of high school in Nevis, MN where her father chose to retire from the military & purchase Green Valley Resort.
She met her husband, Terry, while attending school in Detroit Lakes, MN. They made their home in Fargo-Moorhead & have worked together as custom home builders for over 30 years. Cyndee also worked as an Interior Designer for HOM Furniture for over 14 years.
In her free time, Cyndee enjoys art, music, sewing, crafting, biking, and bowling!
<a href="https://cyndee.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">Contact Cyndee Engberg</a> for all of your Real Estate needs!2022-07-06T10:06:00-07:002022-09-20T10:12:14-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:20181The Dangers of FSBO<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/FSBO-27-27.png" width="750" height="410" />
Unfortunately, most sellers do not realize the risk they are taking when trying to sell a home themselves. Statistically, FSBO (For Sale by Owner) properties sell well below market value. Sellers may lose 18% by trying to save themselves 6% when they list as a For Sale by Owner rather than with a licensed real estate professional.
FSBOs typically sell for less than the selling price of other homes; FSBO homes sold at a median of $260,000 last year, significantly lower than the median of agent-assisted homes at $318,000.
Within rural areas, 12 percent are sold via FSBO compared to four percent of sellers in urban areas.
Only 7% of home sales were FSBO sales last year.
Before you decide to take on the challenges of selling your house on your own, <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/">consult with a real estate professional</a> and see what they have to offer.2022-06-21T14:37:00-07:002022-09-20T09:53:29-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:22073Get to Know Cindy Johnson<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Cindy_Johnson.png" width="751" height="410" />
In addition to being a Realtor, Cindy Johnson works with Lutheran Social Services of MN as a host home for adults with disabilities. Cindy also has a background in the banking industry, previously working as a Mortgage Credit Analyst.
Cindy’s life outside of work revolves around her family. She enjoys spending time with her adult children and her grandkids! Cindy also has a love for dogs, especially giant breeds.
<a href="https://cindy.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">Contact Cindy Johnson</a> for all of your Real Estate needs!2022-06-01T09:49:00-07:002022-09-20T09:52:04-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:20272Q&A Housing Market Update | John Knosalla <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/qanda-29.png" width="750" height="410" />
John joined hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn on the <a href="https://www.am1100theflag.com/shows/the-need-to-know-morning-show">Need to Know Morning Show</a> (heard on Fargo's AM 1100 The Flag WZFG) this week to give an update on the current Real Estate market in Fargo-Moorhead.
Are interest rates up right now and what are they?
“They are pushing close to 6% on a 30-year fixed loan. It’s significant and almost double what it was two years ago. It’s absolutely taking people out of certain price points. But, when looking at the market, there are some price points where there is opportunity. Right now, between that $300,000 and $400,000 price range there are 44 houses available. Under $300,000 there are 64 total. That’s still a tight market. I listed one on Friday at $345,000, we got eight offers in a day, and it ended up going for $375,000.”
Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?
“It’s definitely a seller’s market. But, buyers are seeing more opportunities in the above $400,000 price range."
Is this the best time of year for people who are selling?
“Yes, right now is the best time because things are green finally and your house is going to show really well. School is out for kids, so this is when we typically get a big rush until school starts again in mid-August.”
With so few homes available for sale, what are the options for buyers?
“Your options are obviously buying a house, building new, staying where you are or renting. Renting is getting outrageously expensive too.”
How is new construction going this spring?
“It’s picking up a lot. They are catching up, we just got done with Parade of Homes so they are getting basements poured right now and looking at the end of the year for closings. If you are thinking about new construction, get ahold of us. We know the builders who can get you in by the end of the year and who are going to be out until next year. New construction is another really great option to get what you want, but it is a timeline thing. We negotiated a December close date for some clients who have a house to sell. These clients listed their house a week ago. We can leverage the low inventory to choose a close date. That worked out for our sellers and the buyers moving from an apartment.”
Hear John every other Tuesday morning at 7:35 a.m. on the Need to Know Morning Show. <a href="https://john.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">Contact him today</a> if you are curious about buying or selling a home.2022-05-24T13:39:00-07:002022-05-24T14:05:08-07:00Sales Departmenttag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:19882If I Were to Sell My Home, Where Would I Move?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos-24.png" width="750" height="410" />
You can close on your timeline when you work with JK Property Partners. This allows plenty of time to find a new home that meets your needs. Our Agents WIN in competitive offer scenarios. So, whether you plan to relocate, upgrade or downsize, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have the market expert on your side!
Three reasons to sell right now:
Home values are at an all-time high.
There are not enough homes for sale to meet the demand (less competition).
Recently, interest rates have increased faster than we have ever seen.
If you are considering a move, <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">schedule a consultation</a> with us today.2022-04-26T14:44:00-07:002022-04-26T14:50:44-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:20068What Is Your Purchasing Power?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Purchasing_Power-26.png" width="1564" height="856" />
Your purchasing power is the amount of home that you can afford to buy that is within your financial reach. This is impacted by mortgage rates because they affect the monthly payment that you’ll have to make on the home you purchase.
If you’re planning to buy a home, it’s important to pay attention. <a href="https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms">Today,</a> the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is <a href="https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms">above 5%</a>. The home search is difficult in Fargo-Moorhead right now due to the low availability of homes for sale. However, you will feel much more comfortable if you are able to find a home within your budget now, compared to waiting until rates increase.
Work with a <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/">Realtor</a> who can help with making the right decision for your situation and a trusted lender to make sure you are looking at homes within your budget. If you are considering buying a home, <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/">reach out to us</a> so we can help you achieve your dream of homeownership this year.2022-04-12T10:42:00-07:002022-05-10T10:48:10-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:202545 Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Home_Inspect-28.png" width="1564" height="856" /><br />
“What condition is the house in?” Discover if the home is ready to move into or if it needs work done on it.
“How do we fix that?” The inspector should be able to recommend a quick fix or an expert that can fix the issue.
“What would you fix first?” This will help you prioritize repairs.
“Show me how ‘X’ works?” Learn how appliances work and their maintenance best practices.
“How much time is left in ‘X’?” Get an estimate of when you will need to replace appliances or when the warranty ends.
2022-03-28T14:47:00-07:002022-05-24T13:50:42-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:19518Mortgage Rates Continue to Move Up<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos_-_Mortgage_Rates-22.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
I have been a licensed Realtor since 2009 and I have never seen a housing market quite like this one. The demand from home buyers is still as strong as it was a year ago and home prices continue to skyrocket. However, THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH HOMES FOR SALE ON THE MARKET TO MEET THE DEMAND. As a homeowner, you are in a great position to capitalize by cashing in on the sale of your home! But the market could change drastically if you wait to sell, even 6 to 12 months from now.
Based on the <a href="https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/news-releases/news-release-details/mortgage-rates-continue-move-0?_ga=2.217383318.1602794866.1648323840-1529566666.1576528603">Primary Mortgage Market Survey</a> from Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has increased by 1.2% (3.22% to 4.42%) since January of this year. Here’s what Sam Khater, the Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, had to say about it:
“Rising inflation, escalating geopolitical uncertainty, and the Federal Reserve’s actions are driving rates higher and weakening consumers’ purchasing power. In short, the rise in mortgage rates, combined with continued house price appreciation, is increasing monthly mortgage payments, and quickly affecting homebuyers’ ability to keep up with the market.”
If you have had any thoughts of selling, now is the time to do it. Contact me today to schedule a 15-minute walk-through of your property. I will give you an exact valuation of your home, help you decide if upgrades are necessary, and answer all your Real Estate questions. This service is completely free and comes with no obligation to list with me. I simply want to be the one you think of when you are ready to sell. Contact me by clicking <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">here.</a>
After reading this are you asking yourself, “if I were to sell my home where would I move?” To answer this question, you need a GREAT REALTOR! Currently, many homes are on the market one day and then sold the next. However, when you work with JK Property Partners you can close on your timeline. Plus, you will get the peace of mind knowing your Agent is aware of listings that are both on and off the market as well as those that are coming soon. 2022-03-24T10:50:00-07:002022-04-01T11:35:39-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:19900Get to Know Brian Benscoter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos-25.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
Brian Benscoter has over 20 years of commercial and residential management experience. In 2008 he secured his Real Estate license and has been practicing commercial Real Estate ever since.
Brian not only has property management experience in the Fargo/Moorhead market, but he also practiced management in the Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas markets along with Missouri where he also had his Missouri real estate license. After nearly 10 years of traveling to those outside markets, it was time to concentrate more on his management in the Fargo/Moorhead market along with providing commercial Real Estate needs to the tenants he manages. He currently is the Operations Manager and Commercial Property Manager for Real Property Services (RPS) in Fargo, North Dakota.
Brian is married to his amazing wife Kim, and they have 2 children, Brennon, and Whitney. They have 2 wonderful grandsons, Dax, and Forest. Brian is a native of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, and currently resides there with his family close by. Brian enjoys all sports and staying active. He is also the assistant coach for the varsity girls’ basketball team in Lake Park, Minnesota.
Brian takes great pride in his profession and offers a unique and personal style to his clients. Please call, text, or email him today on any commercial Real Estate needs.
Certifications and Affiliations:
Fargo-Moorhead Area Association of REALTORS
Contact Brian by clicking <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/agents/brian-benscotter/">here.</a>2022-02-22T14:29:00-07:002022-04-27T13:34:25-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:1952510 Terms to Pay Attention to While Searching for Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/10_Terms_for_Buyers-23.png" width="3126" height="1709" />This story originally appeared on ZeroDown and was produced and distributed in partnership with<a href="https://stacker.com/stories/31377/10-terms-pay-attention-while-searching-your-dream-home" style="font-size: 12px;"> Stacker Studio</a>. Written by: Angelica Leicht
Buying a new home can be an extremely exciting time—but it can also be overwhelming for many buyers. After all, the housing market has been particularly unusual for the last couple of years, and that alone has made it tough for buyers across the country who are looking for homes.
With mortgage rates dropping to historic lows starting in 2020, buyers and investors clambered to take advantage of the opportunity to borrow money at relatively low expense to purchase homes. That rush by buyers and investors helped drive up home prices as competition became fierce. Over time, the rush of buyers almost completely depleted the available housing inventory in markets across the country—whether small-town North Dakota or downtown Boston. Two years after the rate drops, home inventory is lower and prices are higher than they have been in recent history, which makes the market challenging for buyers to navigate.
But it’s not just the unusual housing market causing issues for buyers—homebuying can be confusing for buyers in any market because there are so many moving parts to consider. Buyers have to narrow down their options to the right neighborhoods or ZIP codes and determine the right offer for a home, which can be tricky, too. In this market, if a buyer offers too low of a price, it can knock them out of the running completely. On the flip side, too high of an offer can cause a buyer to exceed their budget.
So how does a homebuyer know what to focus on when searching for their dream home? Real estate platform ZeroDown analyzed real estate listings and compiled a list of 10 key terms to pay attention to when browsing for a home online. Understanding these terms will help homebuyers ask important questions and make informed decisions.
Time on the market
When searching for a home to purchase, the time on market, which is the measurement for how long a property has been listed for sale, is an important metric. The time on market is typically shown as the number of days the home has been on the market without an accepted offer and it can be a good indicator of how desirable a property is to other buyers.
For example, if a home has been listed for much longer than comparable properties in the area or neighborhood, it may indicate that the home is less desirable for one reason or another. It could be that the price point is too high compared to other similar properties, it could be a sign of a buyer’s market, or it could indicate a deal-breaker issue with the home. If a home has spent a long time on the market in a seller’s market, it could signal to the buyer that they may be able to offer a lower price for the property—as the seller may be willing to make more concessions to make the sale.
Type of home (multifamily, single-family, co-op)
The type of home typically has a big impact on the home’s value, the property's amenities, the layout, and other important factors—including the monthly or annual maintenance fees. There are numerous types of homes for sale in most markets, from multifamily properties to single-family homes, co-op units, condos, and townhomes, among others. And each type of property offers something unique to buyers.
A townhome will typically be a multi-story unit connected to other individual units by shared walls. These types of properties generally come with lower per-square-foot prices compared to single-family homes, but they often don’t have large yards—and you will typically have to pay a monthly or annual fee toward maintenance on the units in the development. On the other hand, single-family homes usually offer larger lots and unattached homes, but the price will be higher in most markets. These types of factors will come into play when calculating an offer price, so it’s important to pay attention to the type of home during your search.
Square feet
The square footage of a home is the total footage of the gross living area, or the spaces that can be “lived” in—like the bedrooms, the bathrooms, and the kitchen, but not the garage or unfinished areas like an attic or basement. The square footage of a home will affect a home’s price, and what you pay for it. Smaller homes typically have higher prices per square foot, as it costs more to install pricey items like HVAC systems in smaller homes, while the price per square foot tends to be lower for larger homes. Buyers can look at the price per square foot on comparable homes to determine what a good price is for the properties being considered.
Year home was built
The year the home was built can have a big impact on the cost of the home—and the amenities or features it offers (or does not offer). For example, newer homes tend to appraise for higher values, which affects the price of the home. That’s because new homes tend to be move-in ready, and the buyers generally won’t have to make many property improvements, like replacing old appliances or floors.
Older homes, on the other hand, may come with issues like old wiring or deferred maintenance that can cost a buyer a lot to repair or update over time. Plus, a newer home’s features, from the roof to the dishwasher and the foundation, are likely to be in better repair than what you’d get from an older home. As such, you can typically expect to pay more upfront for a new home, but less on updates or renovations over time.
Condition of home
The home’s condition can indicate how much money you’ll need to shell out now or in the future for repairs—and can also play a part in how much you offer for the property. For example, homes with older roofs, aging pipes, or crumbling foundations can cost tens of thousands of dollars in repairs. So, if you’re considering a home in less than perfect condition, decide whether or not you’re willing to take these problems on—and if so, account for the future costs as part of your offer.
Cosmetic issues, like outdated appliances or cracked kitchen tiles, can also add significantly to the cost of the home, so you’ll want to factor those expenses in before buying a home. In some cases, a home in poor condition—or a home that requires major structural fixes—may end up costing you a lot more in repairs than it’s worth, so the condition should be factored into that part of the equation as well.
Cooling and heating features
The cooling and heating features that a home comes with can be an important factor to consider—especially in certain climates. A home in a coastal area of southern California with moderate year-round climates may not need central air conditioning, as it’s common to cool homes by simply opening windows. If you are considering whether to purchase a home with central cooling in this area, factor in the cost of the upkeep compared to the value it adds to the property.
Homes in cold climates need working heating features—and some types of heating systems can be much more efficient than others. The age of the air conditioning or heating system may also matter, as most units will need to be replaced or require major repairs after 10 to 15 years. Other factors, like what the system requires for routine maintenance, or how much it costs to heat or cool the home, also matter, as these elements have a big impact on your costs as a homeowner.
Included amenities
The types of amenities a property comes with—whether a backyard pool, being zoned to quality public schools, or even the walkability of the neighborhood—not only need to align with your preferences, but they can also have a significant impact on how easy it is to sell the property in the future.
For example, if you have young children who will be entering elementary school in the near future, you may want to verify that the property is zoned to a top-ranked public school. Or, if you’re concerned about the cost of your future utility bills, you may want the home to be energy efficient. These amenities will also matter to future buyers if you sell your home—and in many cases, homes with many amenities will retain their value better over time, too.
Price history
A home’s price history can tell you a lot about the property—including how motivated a seller may or may not be. For example, if you’re looking at a home that has been on the market for over a year with no drop in asking price, there’s a high chance the seller may not be motivated to sell the home. Homeowners who want to sell their homes quickly will drop the price after certain periods of time if it remains unsold. As such, buyers can typically offer lower than the asking price and obtain the property for a steal. Numerous price drops in a short period of time can also indicate there may be issues to overcome with the home, whether cosmetic or structural.
Market value
The market value indicates the actual value of the property in normal market conditions. A home is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it—and the market value tells you what a buyer would be willing to pay in a typical market. A home’s market value is determined by an appraiser and is based on what buyers have paid for other, similar homes in the area.
In a balanced market, the home’s market price and market value are typically equal, meaning that buyers are paying the home’s value for the purchase. In sluggish markets, the home’s market value may be higher than the market price. Buyers want the market value to be at least as high as the price of the home—and ideally, the market value will be much higher than what the buyer is paying, which shows the buyer they’re paying a fair price.
Projected monthly cost
What you will pay each month for your home costs matters a lot when buying a property—and, as such, it’s important to pay attention to the projected monthly costs of a home. But your mortgage note isn’t the only cost considered in the projected monthly cost of a home. Other related costs, like your home insurance premiums, real estate taxes, homeowners association fees, and special assessments, should also be factored in.
By understanding the totality of these costs, you will have an idea of whether or not you can afford the properties you’re considering. The projected monthly cost of a property will vary, sometimes significantly, based on factors like a monthly condo association fee or the premium for mortgage insurance, so it’s important to calculate these costs for each property you’re considering. That way, you’ll know whether each individual property fits into your monthly budget.2022-02-09T13:37:00-07:002022-04-01T12:43:43-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:17757Keys to Selling in the Winter
This week I discussed a number of topics with Jay Thomas of WDAY 970 radio including employment opportunities with the Brokerage, pricing your home right, selling in the winter, interest rates, a Real Estate market update, and lake property values.
- We’re Hiring – 0:00
- Pricing Right – 1:47
- Winter Home Sales – 3:23
- Interest Rates – 6:15
- Market Update – 8:00
- Lake Property – 8:58
See what your home could sell for here: fargohomevalues.com
*A copy of this segment has been provided to us courtesy of Flag Family Media.2022-01-26T15:21:00-07:002022-01-26T15:32:19-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:17716Color of the Year 2022<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Color_of_the_Year-21.png" width="3126" height="1710" />
The new year marks a fresh start for new goals and new adventures. If one of your goals is to update an area of your home, you might want to consider <a href="https://www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2022">Patone’s 2022 Color of the Year</a>: Very Peri.
The color is described as a “color whose courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity. Very Peri illustrates the fusion of modern life and how color trends in the digital world are being manifested in the physical world and vice versa.”
Pantone's Color of the Year has had an influence on many industries. You’ll likely see this year’s color included in fashion trends, home furnishings, industrial design, and graphic design.
There are many ways you can incorporate this new, purple hue in your home, a simple décor piece or a freshly painted wall!2022-01-25T10:38:00-07:002022-01-25T11:03:00-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:17360A Look Back at 2021
As we bring 2021 to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on an incredible year! Out of all our accomplishments this year, we are most grateful for the lasting relationships we have built. We are honored to be a part of the home buying and selling process from first-time homebuyers to empty nesters and long-distance movers to investors. Our slogan is “Delivering Dreams by Opening Doors” and this year, we did just that!
Here’s a video (see above) to look back at a few of the MANY great people we got to help buy and sell in 2021. <img src="/res/tiny_mce/plugins/emotions/img/smiley-laughing.gif" alt="Laughing" title="Laughing" border="0" />
We look forward to helping YOU with your next move in 2022! Wishing all a happy and healthy New Year!2021-12-31T14:56:00-07:002022-01-03T15:08:29-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:17272Will Rent Continue to Rise in 2022?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Rent_in_2022-20.png" width="1564" height="855" />
Rent rose at an alarming rate in 2021. Will that continue in 2022?
According to Zumper’s National Rent index, the median one-bedroom rent increased a shocking 12.1 percent in 2021 while two bed-room rent rose 13.2 percent. This is even more shocking when you compare the one-bedroom rent increase in 2019, just 0.3 percent, and in 2020 just 0.6 percent.
Home prices and rent tend to move in tandem with each other. Lower rents and home values in the fall and winter when people are less likely to move. Zumper is predicting rent growth to normalize in 2022 based on the recent indications in their November data. However, Fargo-Moorhead home values should remain stable due to an incredibly low inventory of homes for sale. As we move into the spring of 2022 buyer demand will intensity.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Picture334.png" width="854" height="447" />
Are you tired of paying for rent (a.k.a money that you’ll never see again)? Then it’s time to build equity by owning your own home. Our agents will help you through the home buying process, step by step, and guide you through the competitive homebuying market to find a place you’ll love! <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/about/" target="_blank">Contact us today</a>!
Jeff Andrews, et al. “Zumper National Rent Report.” The Zumper Blog, 22 Nov. 2021, https://www.zumper.com/blog/rental-price-data/. 2021-12-27T16:39:00-07:002021-12-27T16:48:54-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:167163 Questions to Ask Your Realtor<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/3_Questions-19_small-19.png" width="750" height="410" />
There’s a lot more to home buying then just making an offer and moving in. You’ll have to get approved by a lender, lock in a mortgage rate, search for homes within your budget, put in a competitive offer, get an inspection and appraisal, pay closing costs, and sign a bunch of paperwork!
Sounds like a lot, right? That’s why it’s important that you are informed throughout the entire process. That’s what your Real Estate Agent is for! There are no dumb questions so ask away! Remember, this is one of the biggest purchases of your life.
Here are three common questions everyone should ask a Real Estate Agent when buying a house.
1. How Old Is The HVAC, Water Heater, & Roof?
It’s not the first thing you think of, or even see when looking at a new home but these are very important features. If these systems are aged, it could be costly to upgrade them. Ask your realtor to go thru the “nuts and bolts” of the house with you, not just the aesthetic features.
2. What if the Home Inspection Show Major Problems?
A home inspector will cover every nook and cranny of the home you intend to buy. Sometimes they can come back with horrifying results, but most of the time it’s nothing to worry about! Your agent will help you decide you should close the door on this house and run or negotiate with the seller to get those repairs done.
3. What if the Home Appraisal is Low?
Competitive markets with bidding wars can drive the sales price higher than the appraised value of the home. Experienced agents have been in this situation before and will be able to help you decide what options are best.
There are many, many other questions you may have so ask your Agent! This will help the transaction go smoothly and you’ll know exactly what you are getting for your money. 2021-11-30T14:43:00-07:002021-11-30T14:49:10-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:16449Super-Satisfying Organizing Tips<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Organizing_Tips-18.png" width="1564" height="855" />
(Article From HouseLogic.com | By: Jamie Wiebe)
Organize Your Home in a Month in Less Than an Hour a Day!
A super-easy plan for getting organized without adding to your home-is-school, home-is-work, home-is-everything time burden.
Have you ever noticed that your self-improvement pacts with yourself are action-oriented? Walk 10,000 steps a day. Fix that leaky faucet. Register for <a href="https://www.volunteermatch.org/" target="_blank">VolunteerMatch</a>.
But “get organized”? It’s a goal so broad that just trying to figure out what action to take makes you wonder what you were thinking in the first place. It’s like you need an organizing plan for your organizing.
Ta-da!
Here it is. Follow these steps, spending less than an hour day (sometimes just a few moments), to a better-organized home:
1. Do That Project
“What about your space is making you feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed?” asks Amy Trager, a professional organizer in Chicago. Is it the paperwork disaster in your office? The pile of clothes teetering on your dresser? Or that mess that surrounds your doorway? Start with what’s annoying you, she says. One hour on that task will rev up your organizing engine.
2. Create a “Go Away” Box
Put anything you’re planning to donate in it (or give to a friend or take to recycle). And keep it by the door so you can easily grab it when you’re leaving.
3. Create a System for Your Entryway
Set up a “command center” so your front door doesn’t become a lawless accessories arena, especially during the winter months. Add hooks for coats, bins for shoes, and a mail sorter if you need it. (Remember to keep a place for your “go away” box.)
4. Wrangle Your Pet Supplies
Minimize the time spent scrambling when your pup is desperate for a walk or eager for a meal. Hang hooks and cubbies near the door and keep leashes, kibble, bowls, and toys in one convenient spot.
5. Organize Your Spices
Arrange your herbs and spices alphabetically, by cuisine, or by brand — whatever makes them easier to find when you’re in the middle of your noodle stir fry.
6. Pare Down Your Utensils
You’ve accumulated several dozen kitchen utensils in your culinary career: can openers, microplanes, four (what?!) wine openers. Pare down the collection and use drawer dividers to keep the remainder in order.
7. Reconfigure Your Pots and Pans
Stop digging around in your shelves for the oversized, cast-iron skillet. Donate the pots and pans you hardly use and install cupboard organizers to help manage the rest.
8. Throw Away Expired Foods
You never use Worcestershire sauce — except that one time. Go through your refrigerator and pantry and ditch or donate anything past its prime or that you won’t use.
9. Stack Your Pantry Staples
Make better use of your pantry by sorting through your staple dry goods — think flour, sugar, pasta, oatmeal, dry beans — and put them in airtight, stackable containers. You’ll free up a ton of space, too.
10. Reassess Your Display Shelves
Shelves crammed with knickknacks, books you’ll never read, and stuff you somehow accumulated are just a waste of space. Donate books to the library, discard the junk, and arrange what’s left in a way that pleases you.
11. Deal With Your Cables
With a Roku, PlayStation, DVD player, and cable box, it’s no surprise your entertainment center is a mess. Create ID tags for each plug from bread tags or cable ties and bundle the clutter together with Velcro strips.
12. Corral Your Accessories
Belts, scarves, purses, hats — all the accessories that don’t have a drawer or spot in the closet can end up everywhere. Buy an accessories hanger or install a simple series of hooks to give your wardrobe’s smallest members a home.
13. Purge Under the Bed
Under-bed storage is ideal for out-of-season clothing. But when out-of-season becomes out-of-sight and out-of-mind, clear out those clothes you’ll never wear again from this precious storage space.
14. Get Rid of Mystery Electronics
Admit it. You’ve got a drawer where black mystery cords, chargers, and oddball electronic bits go to die. Free that drawer up for better uses or at least get rid of the ones you know for sure are “dead.”
15. Pare Down Your Personal Care Stuff
Your intentions were honorable when you bought that curl-enhancing shampoo — but it expired two years ago, and you haven’t used it since. Throw away any expired potions, salves, hair products, and medicines.
16. Tackle Under-the-Sink Storage
Clean everything out. You’ll be amazed at what you find (like those Magic Erasers you could never find). Then put back everything you’re keeping in bins you can easily pull out so nothing gets lost again.
17. Hang a Shelf
Wall storage is so often overlooked. Find a spot in your home where a shelf would solve a problem and hang it. Maybe it’s for some toiletries in the bathroom, or laundry supplies, or for your kid’s stuffed toys.
18. Organize Your Junk Drawer for Good
There’s no shame in a junk drawer — but why not organize it? Dump the whole thing on one surface and sort everything into piles. Use drawer dividers to keep each pile in its own space.
19. Store Your Tools the Right Way
Finding the right Phillips-head screwdriver to put together that cute IKEA bookshelf shouldn’t be so hard. Track down your hammers and screwdrivers and arrange them in one easy-to-access spot, such as a pegboard.
20. Plan for the Future
See how much you’ve accomplished! Look around your newly organized home, noting any spaces you missed. Then dream a bit about your next home project. Maybe paint that dining room, finally?
Wiebe, Jamie. “Realtor® Content Resource: Organize Your Home in a Month in Less than an Hour A Day.” HouseLogic, https://members.houselogic.com/articles/how-to-organize-your-home/preview/. 2021-11-16T09:22:00-07:002021-11-16T11:08:32-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:16127Halloween: Haunted North Dakota Homes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos1214-17.png" width="1563" height="855" />
Have you heard about these haunted homes in North Dakota?
We have seen a few spooky things (in addition to bad inspection reports) as Realtors! With Halloween creeping up on us, let’s take a closer look at a few well-known North Dakota homes that are rumored to be haunted.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Picture1.jpg" width="200" height="150" />
Chateau De Mores - Medora, North Dakota
This 26 room, two-story building was built in 1883 to serve as the summer residence for Antoine de Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Mores, and his family. That same year, the Marquis de Morès plotted out a six square mile area near the Little Missouri River and founded the town of Medora, named after his wife. The Chateau De Mores is now a historic museum containing many personal effects of the family. The property is said to be haunted by a female ghost. Some visitors have reported lights turning on when no one is inside, having uneasy feelings and cold spots in the home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Picture23.png" width="246" height="161" />
The 'Lion House' – Dickinson, ND
According to many area residents, the home located at 345 Sims St. in Dickinson is haunted. The house is said to have been built in the 1890s by A.C McGillivray, a Canadian immigrant. Not only is this home large by appearance but it is also uniquely made native sandstone from the basement to the third floor. McGillivray was a successful business owner with several interests including a fruit farm in California and a ranch known as “Indian Springs” in North Dakota. He also served as a Stark County Commissioner and was elected to the North Dakota State Senate in 1900. McGillivray died young and had his funeral in the house. Other rumors include stories of murder in the home. A previous owner of the property was gifted two lion statues and placed them outside the home in hopes that it would then be referred to as “the lion house” instead of “the haunted house.”
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Picture34.png" width="266" height="192" />
Governor’s Mansion – Bismarck, ND<br />
The Governor's Mansion is a well-preserved and restored 1884 late Victorian Mansion now owned by the State Historical Society of North Dakota and operates as a museum. The mansion located at 320 E Avenue B, Bismarck, ND was home to the state’s governors until 1960. In 1898, Governor Frank Briggs died from tuberculosis in the master bedroom. The theory is that because Briggs did not complete his full duty as governor or fulfill all of his goals and because of that, he still haunts the place he died. It’s rumored that the old master bedroom, where Governor Briggs died, is an active area for paranormal activity. Staff and visitors have heard footsteps, found curtains moving by themselves, and noticed doors opened and closed where they shouldn’t be.
Administrator, dglobe. “Legend of the 'Lion House'.” The Globe, The Globe, 2 Nov. 2009, <a href="https://www.dglobe.com/1365204-legend-lion-house">https://www.dglobe.com/1365204-legend-lion-house</a>.
“Chateau De Mores State Historic Site.” SHSND - Chateau De Mores State Historical Site, https://www.history.nd.gov/historicsites/chateau/.
“Former Governor's Mansion.” Haunted Houses, 19 Sept. 2021, <a href="http://hauntedhouses.com/north-dakota/former-governors-mansion/">http://hauntedhouses.com/north-dakota/former-governors-mansion/</a>2021-10-28T11:28:00-07:002021-10-29T09:17:40-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:1588535 Money Saving Household Habits<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Money_Saving_Tips-15.png" width="1563" height="855" />(Article From HouseLogic.com | By: Amy Howell Hirt | Published: May 16, 2019)
Adopt a few of these home tips to find a bit more cash each month. Your house gives you so much: security, pride, shelter. With all that on the line, it's easy to assume the costs of keeping it up just are what they are. But wait. There are plenty of expenses that are simply a waste. Here's how to save money each month without putting a dime of home value at risk.
#1 Clean Your Light Bulbs What? Who does that? Well, smart people (who know shrewd, small ways to save money). A dirty bulb emits 30% less light than a clean one. Dust off both the bulb and fixture and you might be able to cut back on the number or brightness of lights in each room without noticing any difference.
#2 Keep Your Fridge Full Solid items snuggled together retain the cold better than air and help keep each other cold -- requiring less energy overall. Leaving town for a while and the fridge is empty? Fill voids in the fridge or freezer with water bottles.
#3 Switch Your Bulbs to LEDs By replacing just five of your most-used incandescent bulbs with uber-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, you could save $75 a year on your energy bill. And LEDs last 15 to 20 times longer than incandescent, so you won't have to replace them nearly as often.
#4 Use Power Strips Here's how to save money -- a lot of it -- on bills. Appliances like coffee makers, TVs, and computers continue to suck power even when they're off, which can cost you $100 a year. And did you know the AC adapter for your laptop keeps drawing power even if the laptop isn't plugged in? Stop this slow money burn by connecting them to an easy-to-switch-off power strip.
#5 Use a Toaster Oven When Possible Toaster ovens use 50% to 70% less energy than a full-size oven.
#6 Set Your Water Heater to 120 Degrees Hot water heaters often come with a factory setting that's higher than you need. You'll cool your water heating costs by 3% to 5% every time you lower the temperature setting by 10 degrees.
#7 Insulate Your Water Heater For $30 or less, an insulating jacket or blanket can shave 7% to 16% off your water heating costs for the year. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's directions to avoid creating a fire hazard.
#8 Wash Clothes in Cold Water Just switching from hot to warm water will cut every load's energy use in half, and you'll reap even more savings taking the temp down to cold. And don't worry: Your clothes will get just as clean from cold water, thanks to the efficiency of today's detergents (except in the case of sickness; you'll want hot water and bleach then).
#9 Use the Right Dryer Cycle If you're using a high-heat setting for each load, you could be using more energy than you need. Almost all fabrics can be dried with a lower heat setting, such as the permanent press setting. It uses less energy and has the bonus of extending the life of your fabrics. Save the higher heat for items such as sheets and towels.
#10 Use Homemade Cleaners Many commercial products rely on baking soda or vinegar for their cleaning power, so why not make your own? Most homemade cleaners cost less than $1.
#11 Cut Back on Laundry Detergent Never mind the barely visible measurement lines in the cap: You typically need only a tablespoon of detergent. And, clothes actually get cleaner when you use less, because there's no soap residue left behind.
#12 Ditch Disposable Sweeper and Mop Head Stop throwing money away every time you clean! Refill your Swiffer Sweeper with microfiber cloths. Just cut to size and use them dry for dusting or with a little water and floor cleaner for mopping. Or switch to a microfiber mop with a washable head.
#13 Stop Buying Dryer Sheets Another easy swap? Give up your dryer-sheet habit (about $7 for 240 loads) in favor of wool dryer balls (about $10 for six, which last for more than 500 loads each). Of course, depending on your laundry preferences, you can always just go without either.
#14 Cut Scouring Pads in Half Most clean-ups don't require a full one.
#15 Don't Rinse Dishes Two minutes of rinsing with the faucet on full power will consume 5 gallons of water -- the same amount efficient dishwashers use during an entire cycle. Shocking, right? And it's an unnecessary step since most newer models are equipped to remove even stubborn food debris. Just be sure to clean the dishwasher trap regularly to keep your dishwasher running efficiently.
#16 Keep a Pitcher of Water in the Fridge You won't have to waste time and money running the faucet, waiting for it to get cold enough for a refreshing sip.
#17 Set a Timer for the Shower The average American takes an eight-minute shower and uses about 17 gallons of water. It's easy to linger, so set a timer for five minutes. Or try this more entertaining idea: Time your shower to a song or podcast segment.
#18 Install Low-Flow Fixtures In addition to water-conserving practices, low-flow showerheads, which cost less than $10, and other fixtures can drop your water use in the shower by 43%.
#19 Hack a Water-Hogging Toilet If you don't have a water-conserving toilet, there are water-saving retrofitting kits that could yield about $110 in savings every year. Or place a half-gallon milk jug filled with water into the tank -- in the corner and away from the flapper and ball-cock assembly. Every time you flush, you'll save.
#20 Close Closet Doors Each closet and pantry may hold a paltry amount of square footage, but you're still heating and cooling it. Add up all the storage space, and you've got the equivalent of a small room. Shut the doors to keep the conditioned air out.
#21 Program the Thermostat Program your thermostat to turn the heat down by 3 to 5 degrees when you're not home and at night, and set it to bump the temperature up by the same amount when the A/C is cranking. You'll save $10 to $20 a month and never feel the difference.
#22 Don't Crank the Thermostat Up or Down Too Far Varying the setting by 10 or more degrees when you're gone for work or over the weekend is overkill. Your HVAC system will have to work overtime to get back to the ideal temperature, erasing your savings.
#23 Use Fans Year-Round Ceiling fans can reduce your summer cooling costs and even reduce winter heating bills -- but only if used correctly. Flip the switch on the base to make the blades rotate counterclockwise for a cooling effect or clockwise to help distribute heat in the winter. And in the warmer months, an attic or whole-house fan can suck hot air out and help distribute cooler air so you can give the A/C a little break.
#24 Caulk or Weatherstrip Around Doors and Windows Caulk may not have the charisma of something like solar panels, but using it to seal air leaks around doors and windows will deliver immediate savings rather than a 14-year payback. You'll spend $3 to $30 and save 10% to 20% on energy bills. For gaps between moving parts that can't be caulked, add weatherstripping.
#25 Add Insulation This is a bigger weatherizing project than caulking or weather stripping, but it could yield more than $500 in yearly savings. While your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to the foundation, prioritize the attic, under floors above unheated spaces, around walls in a heated basement, and in exterior walls.
#26 Plant Shade Trees Block the summer sun to lower cooling costs. Planting one shade tree on the west side and one on the east side of your home can shield your home from the sun during the summer months (but avoid south-side trees, which block winter sun). By the time they're 15 years old, these two trees can reduce your energy bill by 22% while adding value to your home.
#27 Use Curtains as Insulation Another way to practice energy-saving passive heating and cooling? Open curtains on sunny windows in the winter and close them up in the summer.
#28 Cool with a Cross Breeze On a breezy day, open a window on the side of your house that's receiving the breeze, then open another on the opposite side of the house. Make sure the window on the receiving side is open a little less than the exhaust side to accelerate the breeze. You can also use a fan if there's no breeze outside.
#29 Check Your Mortgage's PMI If your mortgage was for more than 80% of your home's purchase price, you could be paying more than $50 a month, and as much as $1,000 a year, for private mortgage insurance. So as soon as you have at least 20% equity in your home, contact your lender to terminate the policy -- they aren't necessarily required to notify you when you reach that threshold. Another option for ditching PMI? If your credit score or debt load has improved since securing your mortgage, look into refinancing with more favorable terms.
#30 Check Your Home Insurance for Savings Your homeowner's insurance should change as your life changes. Buying an automatic generator or installing security alarms could reduce your premiums by 5% or more. Bundling your home and auto coverage could save even more -- up to 20% off both policies. But the point is to compare and do a price check to see if you can save. Surveys have found you could be paying a lot more than what another insurer would charge for the same coverage. So you could save by going with a new company or by using their quote to bargain with your current provider.
#31 Borrow Tools Instead of Buying How often are you going to use that $600 demolition hammer once you remove your bathroom tile? Not so much? Rent it from a home-improvement store for a fraction of the cost. Be sure to do the math for each tool and project, though; sometimes the rental price is high enough to justify buying it. Or join a tool lending library or cooperative to borrow tools for free or much less than retail stores.
#32 Cut Back on Paper Towels Two rolls of paper towels a week add up to about $182 every year! Instead, try machine-washable cotton shop towels. They clean up messes just as fast and cost less than $2 for five. Save paper towels for messes that need to go straight into the trash, like oil and grease.
#33 Stop Buying Plants for Curb Appeal Every Year A pop of color in your landscaping perks up your curb appeal. But instead of wasting household funds on short-lived annuals, invest in perennials that will keep giving for years to come.
#34 Water Grass in the Morning to Save on Your Water Bill Turning the sprinkler on at midday is kind of like watering the air -- especially when the mercury soars. Lose less to evaporation by watering during cooler hours (but avoid overnight watering, when too-slow evaporation can invite fungus growth).
#35 Make Your Yard Drought-Tolerant for Long-Term Savings Save $100 or more yearly by replacing water-hogging plants and grass with drought-tolerant and native species, and beds of rock or gravel. You'll save time on maintenance, too.
Hirt, Amy Howell. “Realtor® Content Resource: 35 Money-Saving Household Habits.” HouseLogic, 16 May 2019, https://members.houselogic.com/articles/how-to-save-money-each-month/preview/.2021-10-12T10:33:00-07:002021-10-12T10:58:09-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:15808Homeowners – Prepare Your Lawn for Next Year<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Fall_Lawn_Care-14_Smaller-14.png" width="1563" height="855" />
This summer we experienced above-average temperatures and very little rain. This caused drought conditions across the region and some of the negative effects were noticeable on our lawns. Many cities enforced watering restrictions which meant dry, brown grass. The only benefit seemed to be that the grass didn’t need to be mowed as much. Recently we’ve received some rain to green the grass up, however, this does not mean it’s in good health for next year. Here are a few things you can do this fall to make sure your yard is the best on the block next summer:
Aerate
An aerator punches small holes in your lawn to prevent the soil from becoming compacted and covered with thatch that blocks water, oxygen, and nutrients from reaching the soil. It’s a good idea to do this once every few years and right before fertilizing or applying seed. There are lawn mower attachments, rolling aerators, and even aerator spikes you can attach to your shoes! Or, if you prefer, there are commercial aerators available to rent in some areas.
Fertilize
Fertilizer can help protect your grass roots from freezing and gives the entire plant a boost of energy to bounce back in the spring. Remember not to spread fertilizer too close to waterways or in areas where there may be runoff. Here’s a detailed page of how and when to fertilize from the University of Minnesota Extension: <a href="https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/fertilizing-lawns#when-and-how-much-to-fertilize-1256812">UMN EDU Extension</a>
Seed
The fall is a great time to overseed your lawn and to fill in thin spots and bare patches. Grass grows better in the fall because the ground is still warm, nights are cool, and the sun is not as hot during the day. Make sure your seeds have a proper bed of soil to grow on and are kept watered until they sprout. According to Tom Kalb, Extension Horticulturist at North Dakota State University, the best grass species for North Dakota lawns are Kentucky bluegrass. It’s hardy and durable providing quality lawns with a thick turf.
Mulch
You can ditch the rake this fall and mulch your leaves with your lawnmower instead. Simply remove the bag or side discharge from your lawnmower. Fallen leaves block the sunlight from your grass and do not provide any insulation benefit during winter. When you mulch the leaves, they will be broken up into pieces, making it easier for soil microbes to break down and return the nutrients back to your lawn.
Bauer, Sam. “Fertilizing Lawns.” UMN Extension, https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/fertilizing-lawns#when-and-how-much-to-fertilize-1256812.
"North Dakota State University.” Selecting Lawn Seed - Yard &amp; Garden Report, https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/yardandgardenreport/2014-08-11/selecting-lawn-seed.
Baker, Thomas. “7 Lawn Care Musts for Your Fall Yard.” This Old House, This Old House, 22 Sept. 2021, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/lawns/21015165/lawn-care-musts-for-your-fall-yard.
Glover, Maury. “Lawn Care Expert: Now Is the Time to Prep Your Drought Damaged Lawn for next Year.” FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul, FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul, 24 Sept. 2021, https://www.fox9.com/news/lawn-care-expert-now-is-the-time-to-prep-your-drought-damage-lawn-for-next-year?fbclid=IwAR2PaSb6kLMie9SckDEcqC-iJcAGpg5m-de13NKBg9hMgCz1PE-MvkQJIMs.2021-10-07T11:09:00-07:002021-10-07T11:48:13-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:15541Preparing Your Home for Market<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Preparing_your_home_for_market-13.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
You’ve chosen your favorite Real Estate Agent and now it’s time to prepare your home for the market! Hundreds of people will see your home listed online and many will view it in person. You’ll want your home looking the best it can. We have broken down this process into four categories: cleaning, home improvements, staging, and curb appeal.
Cleaning Tips:
1. Ask Yourself...
Do I like it? Do I need this?
How long has it been since I used this?
How will I store it if I decide to keep it?
2. Kitchen:
Throw away food past the expiration date.
Get rid of unused products, utensils, and appliances.
3. Living Room:
Donate books you’ve finished reading.
Clear out old CDs, videotapes, and DVDs.
Clear unnecessary items from surfaces.
Put your sentimental valuables in a box and put them in storage.
Hang hooks inside of doors and cupboards to hang objects like towels, jackets, or backpacks.
4. Bedroom:
Store your off-season clothes.
Use suitcases and other bins as storage.
Divide your drawers into smaller compartments.
Group small items together like jewelry, cords, cards, etc.
Donate clothes that you haven’t worn in over a year or don’t fit.
Home Improvement Tips:
Ask your Agent if it’s necessary and worth your investment before you start any major projects like renovating the kitchen. Here’s a list of minor home improvement ideas that can boost the value of your home and its appeal to buyers.
1. Clean/Repair
Deep clean your carpet.
Re-caulk bath.
Re-grout tile.
Leaky faucets and aerator build up on sinks.
Patch up holes and cracks
2. Replace
Doorknobs and doorbells.
Smoke detectors and light bulbs.
Broken outlet and light switch, and vent covers with screwless covers.
Vent covers.
Replace keyed deadbolts with keypad deadbolts.
Toilet seats with soft close, warm, or bidet.
Consider replacing major appliances (refrigerator, wash/dryer, etc.).
Staging Tips:
Do’s:
Hang Mirrors – Hang a mirror in your entryway for a more spacious look.
Remove Clutter – Clutter makes your house look small and unwelcoming.
Reduce Furniture – Minimize the amount of furniture to make your home look more open and spacious.
Use Neutral Colors – Neutral colors show best in all homes and don’t turn off buyers.
Use Technology – Technology updates are a huge selling point, so showcase them.
Don’ts:
Mask Odors – Use only natural deodorizers and avoid floral scents.
Neglect Exterior – Curb appeal is extremely important – make sure it’s neat and attractive.
Overcrowd – Keep your room’s purpose clear and well defined.\Random Color – Bright colors make open spaces feel much smaller
Heavy Drapes – Use sheer curtains to bring in natural light.
Curb Appeal
By boosting your home's curb appeal, you’ll want to attract more buyers and drive-by prospects to view your home and also increase its perceived value. If you are selling in the winter, this might be a little more challenging!
Tip #1: Complete your own inspection. Pretend you are a potential buyer, walk and drive by your house and take note of at least three features that are attractive and three that need improvement Is the roof free of debris? Are the gutters clean? Is the foliage and lawn well-groomed? Is the paint fresh? These features can turn off a potential buyer if neglected.
Tip #2: Add exterior touches and minor additions to make your home stand out. Some common upgrades are mailboxes, home address numbers, installing flower boxes, fresh paint, more lighting, and a new welcome mat. One minor upgrade might not do much, but they are powerful when viewed together.
Tip #3: Purchase or rent a pressure washer and use it to clean the extremely dirty surfaces of your home like your porch, deck, driveway, fence, and siding.
Tip #4: Paint the outside of your home. A fresh, new coat of paint can revive the appearance of your home. Paint the trim, look for areas that are peeling or chipped, find discolorations, and use neutral colors.
Tip #5: Get a second opinion of your home’s curb appeal. Ask your real estate agent, friend, or neighbor for their opinion – they might notice some details that you might’ve overlooked.
2021-09-22T13:25:00-07:002021-09-22T13:37:35-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:15466How Old is the Average Homebuyer?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Avg_Age_of_Homebuyer-12.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
A shortage of homes available, coupled with low mortgage rates and high demand has made for an interesting housing market. Let’s look at some numbers to see how this has affected the demographics and thought process of the homebuyer.
First-time buyers made up 31 percent of all home buyers (2020).
62% of recent buyers were married couples, 19% were single females, 9% percent were single males, and 9% were unmarried couples.
27% of recent buyers said the primary reason for purchasing a home was the desire to own a home of their own. For first-time buyers, this number jumps to 64%.
15% of buyers purchased a new home, and 85% of buyers purchased a previously owned home.
The median distance between the home that recent buyers purchased and the home they moved from was only 15 miles.
The typical home that was recently purchased was 1,900 square feet, had three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and was built in 1993.
Overall, buyers expected to live in their homes for a median of 15 years, while 21 percent said that they were never moving.
Buyers typically searched for eight weeks and looked at a median of nine homes and viewed five of these homes only online.
The typical buyer was 47 years old with a median household income of $96,500.
Where do you stack up with the national average? Do any of these statistics relate to you?
“Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers 2020.” National Association of Realtors, cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2020-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers-11-11-2020.pdf.2021-09-16T13:38:00-07:002021-09-16T13:50:53-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:15124Get Your Home Ready for Back to School<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos-11.png" width="3126" height="1710" />
The summer is beginning to dwindle down (say it isn’t so!), and school is starting again for some in just a few days. While some parents are trying to sneak in one more family vacation, others have been counting down the days until they get a little quiet time. If you are finding yourself in either of those scenarios, here are a few tips to make the back-to-school frenzy less stressful for everyone - no matter what that looks like for you this year.
1. Organize the Mudroom/Entryway
This is the place where your kids will undoubtedly dump all their stuff after a long day of school. A few hooks and storage cubbies can make a world of difference. By keeping this area clean and organized you’ll be able to (hopefully) find everything as you rush out the door again the next morning. This is also a good location for a family bulletin board or white board to keep everyone’s schedule in check.
2. Get the Command Center Ready
The kitchen is usually where everyone finds themselves at some point in the morning and you might want to designate it as your “Command Center.” Breakfast can be served while lunch bags are dispersed and at the end of the day it can act as a check in point for snacks and homework time.
The key here is to keep your pantry organized. Separate the snacks and food that your kids will take to school from the meals you’ll prepare for supper (this goes for the fridge too). Dedicate a cupboard or drawer to school supplies like pencils, scissors, and glue. Then, in another cupboard, store water bottles, lunch bags, sandwich bags, tin foil, and any other supplies needed to pack lunches. That way you don’t have to run around to different areas of the kitchen to find what you need. Ok, now everyone single file out the door!
3. Make Closet Space
Clean out your kid’s closet (or make them do it of course) so that their outfits are ready to go for the week. Unless of course you are adopting the <a href="https://big-daddy.fandom.com/wiki/Sonny_Koufax">Sonny Koufax </a>theory of parenting in which case your kid will wear whatever they can find. If you think about it an organized closet can really help everyone in the morning; there is very little time to get prepared for school and after, the day is jam-packed with practices, homework, and playtime.
Starting to realize your family is running out of space? Maybe it’s time for an upgrade, <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">contact us</a> today!
Good luck on the first day of school, you got this!2021-08-19T12:29:00-07:002021-08-19T12:40:06-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:15021How to Sell Your Home in 10 Easy Steps<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos_preview-10-10.png" width="1563" height="856" />
Today’s market is a great time to capitalize on the sale of your home! Check out the 10 Steps to Selling below so you’ll know what to expect when you list your home.
1. Meet with a Licensed Realtor
After a walkthrough of your property, your Realtor will provide an analysis of the current market to help you evaluate the pricing of your home to form a selling strategy.
2. Prepare Your Home to Sell
By turning your home into a clean, fresh living space (free of personal items and knickknacks), you can provide the buyers with an opportunity to see its full potential.
3. Marketing
After your home is staged, professional photos will be taken for the listing. The marketing team will use the selling strategy to advertise your home through many traditional and online mediums like Zillow, Facebook, Instagram, postcards, and radio. The larger the net, the more fish you will catch!
4. Showings
A showing is a professionally scheduled appointment that gives a potential buyer the opportunity to tour your home. An open house is for any buyers to walk through and view your home, usually for a few hours on a Sunday. Your Realtor will do the hosting, sign-in visitors, answer questions for buyers, and get their feedback.
5. Receive Offers & Negotiate
Your Realtor will receive offers and present them to you. There may be scenarios where you need to decide between multiple offers or counteroffers. That’s why it’s important to choose a Realtor that is able to explain your options and help you decide what is in your best interest.
6. Buyers home inspection
A professional home inspector will visit your property to look at the exterior and interior parts of the home including electrical, plumbing, roofing, HVAC, and foundations. A home inspection contingency allows buyers to learn about major and minor issues with a home before purchasing it. Plus, many lenders won't offer financing on a home without an inspection.
7. Appraisal
A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of the fair market value of what a home is worth. All lenders require this to ensure that the amount of money requested by the borrower is appropriate.
8. Move out!
Identify what items to move and what items to sell or donate. Start searching for moving companies or ask your Realtor for a recommendation. Don’t forget to label your boxes!
9. Buyers Final Walkthrough
A final walkthrough allows home buyers to do one last check to make sure that the home they're purchasing is in the same condition it was when they agreed to buy it: including any additional repairs.
10. Closing Day! Home Sold!
Your Realtor along with a title company will handle all the paperwork needed to transfer the money and documents so that you, the seller, can transfer ownership and possession of the property free and clear to the buyer. Congratulations your home has sold!
2021-08-10T11:32:00-07:002021-08-10T14:26:53-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:14806Is the Housing Market Slowing Down?
I joined the Need to Know Morning Show on Fargo's WDAY 790 and 1100 The Flag to give a breakdown of what is happening right now in the Fargo-Moorhead area housing market and what that means for home buyers and sellers.
-Housing Market Update – 0:19
-Current Interest Rates – 3:41
-Hot Fargo-Moorhead Neighborhoods – 5:22
Find out your home value instantly by visiting: fargohomevalues.com2021-07-22T08:18:00-07:002021-07-22T08:22:09-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:14803The First Step in Your Home Search
I had a chance to share a Fargo-Moorhead summer market update and discuss a few scenarios that could impact buyer financing this week on the Jay Thomas Show (WDAY 970). I hope you enjoy listening back to this segment and as always let me know if you have any Real Estate questions.
­­­See what your home could sell for here: <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/" target="_blank">fargohomevalues.com</a>2021-07-21T13:10:00-07:002021-07-21T13:15:41-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:14697The Importance of Staging Your Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos-09.png" width="3126" height="1710" />
Most buyers view a home online first before they decide to look at it in person. That is why photographs and staging have become so important. Buyers can be particular and if the home appears too cluttered, they may not go look at it in person. By turning your home into a clean, fresh living space (free of personal items and knickknacks), you can provide the buyers with an opportunity to see its full potential. Simply put, the goal is the same for all our listings, help the seller achieve the highest sale price in the shortest amount of time.
A new survey from the National Association of Realtors® reveals that home staging continues to be a significant part of the home buying and selling process. Here is a quick breakdown:
82% of buyers’ agents said staging made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home.
23% of buyers' agents said that home staging raised the dollar value offered between 1% and 5%, compared to similar homes on the market that had not been staged.
18% of sellers' agents said home staging increased the dollar value of a residence between 6% and 10%.
0% of agents for sellers reported that home staging had a negative impact on the property's dollar value.
31% of sellers’ agents said that home staging greatly decreased the amount of time a home spent on the market.
What parts of the home make the biggest impact when staged?
90% Living Rooms
80% Kitchens
78% Master Bedrooms
69% Dining Rooms
39% Home Office or Office Space
NAR Finds Home Staging Helps Buyers Visualize, Homes Sell Faster, 6 Apr. 2021, www.nar.realtor/newsroom/nar-finds-home-staging-helps-buyers-visualize-homes-sell-faster.2021-07-13T08:25:00-07:002021-07-13T08:29:24-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:14517Midwest Summer Home Maintenance<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos33-07.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
Summertime is so beautiful in the Midwest, and we really learn to appreciate it after the cold winter season. It can get busy with time spent at the lake, ballgames, and vacation but you shouldn’t overlook these summer home maintenance reminders!
Check Your Gutters & Downspouts
If you didn’t get to it in the spring, you might want to take a peek at your gutters and downspouts. Chances are that your gutters are clogged with leaves from the fall and your downspouts may have been damaged or even came loose over the winter. Double-check the grading around your home to make sure the downspouts lead the water away from your home.
Replace Your Air Filter
Replace the air filters in your home to protect yourself and your family from pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, and bacteria. You might be surprised how quickly those filters can fill up so check them often!
Stop Uninvited Houseguests
Make sure the ants do not come marching in! Between those little guys, houseflies, and mosquitos you can have quite the nuisance on your hands. Seal up the exterior of your home, fix screens and spray an insecticide around your home. Check the peaks of your roof, a common area for bee and wasps nests. You might need to call a professional if you have issues with any insect or pest bigger than the ones mentioned.
Inspect Your Deck & Porch
Depending on the materials used, decks and porches can undergo a lot of wear and tear from the changing seasons in the Midwest. A wet springtime can cause rotting, settling of the ground can cause an unlevel surface, direct sunlight and harsh winters can cause finish issues. Add that to all the barbecue parties and your deck or porch could be showing its age. Inspect for any cracks, damage, or rot.
Check Your Roof
We have already had a few strong storms in our region. Give your roof a quick check to make sure you are not missing any shingles. You might end up with leaks when the rain comes again if you don't!
Change the Batteries in Your Smoke Detectors
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends changing the batteries in your smoke alarm every 6 months.
2021-06-22T13:46:00-07:002021-06-23T08:24:34-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:1452410 Home Buying Tips<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Blog_Cover_Photos33-07-08-08.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
Are you ready to buy a home? We’ve compiled 10 quick tips to help you with this exciting process!
1. Third-Party Websites
Use the jkpropertypartners.com website or the MLS Portal that your Agent creates for you. Avoid third-party websites; their information can take up to 15 days to update.
2. Pre-Approval
Whether you are quickly pre-approved, or you have some work to do, your Agent will want to find out how much money you will need to have for a down payment, and if you need to ask the seller to pay your closing costs.
3. Touring Homes
Your Agent’s goal should be to learn enough about what you are looking for so that you can view less than ten homes before finding "the one."
4. Offer
There are many factors that go into the price you offer on a home. Your Agent will guide you by considering the DOM, down payment, factoring in closing costs, and all contingencies.
5. Inspections
Inspections are conducted to ensure the overall safety and function of the home. You will want to refrain from asking for too many things, including cosmetic repairs.
6. Appraisals
If you are getting a loan to purchase your home, the bank will require you to order an appraisal. This can take a few weeks to receive but will protect you from overpaying for the home.
7. No Large Purchases
Do not make any new purchases or open any new credit during the home buying process.
8. Competition
Let your Agent guide you during potential bidding wars.
9. Negotiations
Always negotiate with a final sales price in mind. If you play too much hardball, the seller may walk away from your offer.
10. Be Ready but Have Patience
The home search process can seem long and sometimes stressful. Be ready to commit to a home when you find one that meets 75% or more of your needs.
2021-06-08T09:19:00-07:002021-06-23T09:33:38-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:13964Why the Current Market Makes it a Great Time to Sell<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Artboard_1.png" width="1920" height="1081" />Should you sell now before the market loses steam?
If you are thinking of selling, now is the best time to cash in on your home. Here’s why the current market makes it a great time to sell your home:
Low-interest rates keep home values up. As interest rates begin to rise, buyer demand begins to drop, and so may your home’s fair market value. Selling your home now while interest rates are low ensures you get the most out of your equity.
Lower mortgage payments on your next purchase. By selling now, you can take advantage of your increased equity to place a larger down payment on your next purchase and lock in today’s low mortgage rates before they rise.
The market is full of eager buyers. Demand is high and buyers are plentiful. Even better, buyers are ready and willing to pay more. Once listed, your home is sure to draw in offers and sell quickly.
Your competition is low. Demand is outpacing the number of homes on the market. This means you won’t need to compete with as many sellers for offers. Sell now while your home stands out and the market is in your favor.
A future increase in interest rates may weigh down your home’s value. Act now before the seller’s market loses its steam and prices dip.
Contact me today to set up an appointment by clicking <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/agents/john-knosalla/" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Contact me today by clicking here." uw-rm-vague-link-id="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/agents/john-knosalla/$here" data-uw-rm-vglnk="">here.</a>
Curious what your home could be worth right now? Click <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Click here." uw-rm-vague-link-id="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/$here" data-uw-rm-vglnk="">here.</a>
2021-05-24T12:21:00-07:002021-05-24T14:06:13-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11571Shockingly High Fargo-Moorhead Home Values!
During my latest segment on the Jay Thomas Show (WDAY 970), I share a recent story about one Fargo homeowner who was shocked that the estimated value of their home was $80,000 over what they expected. Listen to this segment and learn more about Fargo-Moorhead home values, gaining seller's leverage, and relocating.
See what your home could sell for here: <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/fargohomevalues.com" target="_blank">fargohomevalues.com</a>
2021-05-17T10:43:00-07:002021-05-19T08:16:15-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11259Get to Know Marc Bushee<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Get_to_Know_Marc_Blog_Cover-04.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
Marc Bushee epitomizes integrity, hard work, energy, and creative problem-solving in every detail of his Real Estate transactions. Marc was born and raised in the Fargo/Moorhead area. Starting his real estate career in 2009, he has built a successful business working with buyers, sellers, land development, new construction, and investors.
In Marc’s free time, he loves spending time with his family as well as his hobbies: fitness training, fishing, board games, and self-improvement. He is continually educating himself on Real Estate matters, keeping up to date on new trends, legal issues, marketing strategies, negotiating techniques, and market data so that he may serve his clients best. Marc also enjoys mentoring new Real Estate investors and sharing his knowledge of Real Estate investment to help entrepreneurs build wealth. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest, Marc is an experienced professional you can trust.
Contact Marc by clicking <a href="https://marc.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/" target="_blank">here.</a>2021-05-14T06:30:00-07:002021-04-21T11:39:24-07:00Danielle Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11501Should You Fix Up Your Home or Sell It As Is?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Home_Upgrades_Blog_Image-06.png" width="3126" height="1709" />
I have had some past clients reach out to me recently. They asked, “how much should I invest in my home to help it to sell?” This is a great question considering the extremely high demand for homes we are seeing in the spring of 2021!
In most circumstances, making upgrades to areas of your home increases its value and appeal to potential buyers. However, during this wild sellers market, I have seen some homeowners invest money into their homes when it is not necessary. Don’t make that mistake! Buyers are offering top dollar and they are purchasing homes in “as is” condition.
Go ahead with the minor fixes like adding some fresh mulch to the landscape, swapping out for LED bulbs, and fixing the leaky faucet. But, when you are ready to sell, let me know! I will gladly come out to your property to provide a 15-minute walk-through with recommendations on how you can maximize the sale of your home. Plus, if the repairs are really needed, I know some of the best professionals (contractor, painter, electrician, plumber, or handyman) in the Fargo-Moorhead area and I’d be happy to give you their information.
Contact me today by clicking <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/agents/john-knosalla/">here.</a>
Curious what your home could be worth right now? Click <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/">here.</a>
2021-05-10T11:19:00-07:002021-05-10T11:43:19-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11408The Current Housing Market is an Unbelievable Opportunity
This week I shared some information about the great opporunites for both home buyers and sellers on The Jay Thomas Show. Take a listen to learn more about the exciting housing market in the Fargo-Moorhead and lakes area.
Are you curious about what your home is worth in today’s market? For an instant valuation go to <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/" data-uw-rm-brl="false">fargohomevalues.com</a> or click <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="or click here" uw-rm-vague-link-id="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/$here" data-uw-rm-vglnk="">here</a>.2021-05-04T07:59:00-07:002021-05-04T08:22:23-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11248U.S. Housing Market is 3.8 Million Homes Short of Demand
A recent Wall Street Journal article shares a new analysis by Freddie Mac, a mortgage-finance company, that the U.S. housing market is 3.8 million single-family homes short of what is needed to meet the country’s demand. Listen as Jay and John Knosalla of JK Property Partners discuss this article, home value changes, and the availability of country and lake property.
Are you curious about what your home is worth in today’s market? For an instant valuation go to <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/">fargohomevalues.com</a> or click <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/">here</a>.
Source: Friedman, Nicole. “WSJ News Exclusive | U.S. Housing Market Is Nearly 4 Million Homes Short of Buyer Demand.” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 15 Apr. 2021, www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-housing-market-is-nearly-4-million-homes-short-of-buyer-demand-11618484400.2021-04-20T14:21:00-07:002021-04-23T07:15:25-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11149Cleanup Week in Fargo-Moorhead<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Earth_Day_Blog_Image-09-09-09.png" width="3126" height="1710" />
Earth Day is recognized each year on April 22. It is a time for our communities to clean up litter, plant trees, or just enjoy the outdoors in the Red River Valley! Here are a few earth friendly home upgrades you should consider.
1. Cleanup Week! If your closet doors are bursting at the seams and your garage is full of items other than your car, it might be time to take some stuff to the curb. Cleanup week begins for most cities across the metro in May. Take advantage of this opportunity and check out all the details by clicking <a href="http://cleanupweek.com/" target="_blank">here.</a><br /> <br /> 2. Indoor Lighting. It can really change the atmosphere in a room but with all the colors, wattages, and styles how is one to choose! All the facts you need are clearly displayed on the package label, making it easy to compare. This includes brightness, life expectancy, energy usage, etc. LED bulbs are the most energy efficient option but with the laws requiring new standards, you can feel good about most options. Take it one step further and control your light usage with smartphone technology!<br /> <br /> 3. Plant Something! A few indoor houseplants can refresh the interior of your home and the increase in air quality can’t hurt either. Consider refreshing your landscaping with some fresh mulch, a new shrub, or a new tree. Try forsythia for a low water shrub and a honey locust for a low water tree.<br /> <br /> 4. Fix Leaky Faucets & Toilets. Ah, the elusive leaky faucet and the top of all honey-do lists. Check for a worn-out gasket or loose O ring. For a toilet that leaks, check for a deteriorated flush valve (flapper) at the bottom of the tank. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water nationwide each year.
5. Upgrade Household Appliances. Ok, admittedly this idea is not as “easy” or as cheap as the ones before but, some utility companies will offer rebates and incentives. Check with your local provider to see what savings are available to you!<br /> <br /> As always, reach out if you need any contractor recommendations! These improvements could make your home a little more desirable for home buyers too. If you are thinking about selling, now is the time! Check out the value of your home in today’s wild market here: <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/">Free Home Valuation</a>
“Water Wisely: Start in Your Own Backyard.” UMN Extension, extension.umn.edu/how/water-wisely-start-your-own-backyard.
“Fix a Leak Week.” EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, 12 Mar. 2021, www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week.2021-04-13T08:41:00-07:002021-04-23T07:14:44-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:10949Homes Are Selling Fast in Fargo-Moorhead | Find Out Why!
The spring home selling market is HOT and NOW is an excellent time to sell! John gives all the details during his latest appearance on The Jay Thomas Show (970 WDAY AM). Click on the video above to get the scoop!<br /> <br /> The interview at a glance…
Houses between 150K & 200K available in West Fargo: ZERO
Houses between 200K & 250K available in West Fargo: ZERO
Houses between 0K & 200K available in Fargo: 13
Houses between 200K & 250K available in Fargo: 9
(This excludes new construction as most are spoken for, in the process of being built or could be built in the future.)<br /> <br /> So, why are homes selling so fast?<br /> <br /> John believes that, like most things these days, the pandemic is the main reason for increased home demand. Home buyers decided to take a “wait and see” approach last year when the pandemic hit. Buyers are becoming more anxious to make a move as some interest rates begin to slightly tick up. This is happening across the country, not just here in the Fargo-Moorhead metro area. But that’s good news if you are thinking about selling. In some cases, we have seen home sales close within a week, thousands over asking and purchased with cash!<br /> <br /> Are you curious to know what your house is worth?<br /> <br /> For an instant valuation go to <a href="https://www.fargohomevalues.com/" target="_blank">fargohomevalues.com</a> or click <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/" target="_blank">here</a>. The valuation you receive is most likely going to be lower than what we could actually get for your home because of the high demand. <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/" target="_blank">Get in touch</a> with us today if you are ready to sell your home. DO NOT WAIT!<br /> <br /> *All numbers come from local MLS for the week of 3/14/21 – 3/20/21.2021-03-25T13:29:00-07:002021-04-23T07:14:10-07:00Danielle Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:11174Get to Know John Knosalla<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Get_to_Know_John_Blog_Cover-03.png" width="3126" height="1709" />John Knosalla, the founder of JK Property Partners, was born and raised in Fargo, ND. He enjoys calling Fargo-Moorhead home because of its vibrant community, strong economy, and because it is a great place to raise his family. John is passionate about Real Estate and making lasting connections with his clients. His high energy personality and positive leadership has guided JK Property Partners to its success as a key Brokerage in Fargo-Moorhead.
John was in his mid-twenties when his family was devastated by the tragic passing of both his father and grandmother within the same week. At that time, John’s parents did not have life insurance or a financial security plan in place. However, the family lake cabin purchased in 1983 would prove to be a saving grace for the Knosalla family. Since its initial purchase, the small, one-bedroom half bath seasonal cabin had appreciated significantly. Its value provided financial stability in a very uncertain time.
John started JK Property Partners in 2009 to help others build that same kind of wealth and financial security. He has continued that mission throughout his career by facilitating over a thousand successful deals for residential, commercial, investment, and rental properties.
Outside of work, John stays busy as a father of twins. In the summertime, John enjoys wake surfing and relaxing with friends and family at his own lake cabin in Otter Tail County, Minnesota.
John is completely committed to his clients. He is an active, full-time Real Estate professional and his clients receive the highest level of service. John would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet you and discuss your Real Estate needs. Please call, text, or email him today.
Contact John by clicking <a href="https://john.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">here.</a>
Certifications and Affiliations:
National Association of REALTORS®
North Dakota Association of REALTORS®
Minnesota Association of REALTORS®
Fargo-Moorhead Area Association of REALTORS®
2021-02-19T10:05:00-07:002021-04-21T11:43:45-07:00Danielle Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:4413Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/Questions_to_ask_before_buying_your_dream_home-02.png" width="3126" height="1709" />It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market.
It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home.
1. Why am I Buying a Home?
Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually, the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact themselves or their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include a better location near a good school, a safe environment, more room, and control of their own space.
These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs.
2. What is the Trend with Home Values?
A good Real Estate agent can help you navigate the home value market with your best interest in mind. Ask if it is a seller’s market or a buyer’s market. A seller's market is when the demand to purchase a home exceeds the supply of a home for sale. Since there are fewer homes available, homes sell faster and buyers may have to compete for the property. A buyer’s market is just the opposite. Home prices decrease and homes spend more time on the market. Sellers must compete to attract buyers, like you.
3. What About Current Mortgage Rates?
The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home.
The Bottom Line
You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. If you need help with the questions above, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our agents today!2021-01-08T15:50:00-07:002021-04-23T07:13:44-07:00John Knosallatag:jkpropertypartners.com,2012-09-20:4414When is the Best Time to Sell Your Home?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1792/image/When_is_the_best_time_to_sell_your_home-01.png" width="3126" height="1710" />
The season you sell your home in can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The spring season is typically the most successful season to sell a home. During this time of year, families consider moving to new school districts and it is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. However, avoiding the winter season is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities.
Advantages of Selling in the Winter
Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real Estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and can commit more time to get your home sold.
Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or a personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale.
The Bottom Line
Consider the time frame of when you would like to sell your home. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move to consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring. If you need help considering these options, <a href="https://www.jkpropertypartners.com/contact/">contact us</a> today!2020-12-21T15:50:00-07:002021-04-23T07:13:33-07:00John Knosalla