The Blog

Notes From the Neighborhood

Where to eat and drink, what's happening around town, and the occasional thing worth knowing before you buy or sell in the Southwest Metro.

A hand holding a set of house keys with a blurred home interior in the background

Southwest Metro · September 27, 2026

Is It a Buyer's Market in the Southwest Metro Right Now? (Fall 2026)

Mortgage rates climbed, not dropped, and that's exactly what's handed buyers real negotiating room in the Southwest Metro this fall. Here's what that means for buyers and sellers.

A bright, finished basement laundry room with white walls, a utility sink, and a washer and dryer

Southwest Metro · September 25, 2026

Minnesota Radon, Sump Pumps, and Seller's Disclosures Explained

What Minnesota's radon disclosure law and seller's disclosure statement actually require, and why a sump pump in the basement isn't the red flag most buyers think it is.

A modern two-story house with a brick facade, large windows, and a driveway, surrounded by fall foliage

Southwest Metro · September 23, 2026

Should You Waive Your Home Inspection in the Southwest Metro?

Waiving a home inspection can win you a competitive Southwest Metro offer, but here's the real risk and three ways to stay protected without losing the house.

An aerial view of a suburban neighborhood in the fall, with winding streets and colorful trees

Southwest Metro · September 21, 2026

Eden Prairie vs. Chanhassen vs. Chaska: Which Southwest Metro Suburb Fits You?

Comparing Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Chaska, Victoria, and Excelsior on schools, commute, and price, so you can pick the right Southwest Metro suburb instead of guessing.

A sandy beach at Riley Lake Park with striped umbrellas and swimmers in the roped-off swim area

Eden Prairie · September 15, 2026

My Favorite Lake in Eden Prairie: Riley Lake Park

A look at the newly renovated Riley Lake Park, the LRT trail that runs past it, the connection to Rice Marsh Lake Park, and why this is one of the cleanest lakes around.

A latte with a heart design in latte art, sitting on a wooden table

Eden Prairie · September 14, 2026

Where to Get the Best Coffee in Eden Prairie

Three local, independent coffee shops in Eden Prairie worth a drive: a farmhouse roastery, a bright atrium workspace, and a specialty Yemeni coffee house.