Parade of Homes Blog

All
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
July 30, 2025

How to Hire a Professional Remodeler (and Why It Matters)

When it comes to remodeling your home, who you choose to work with matters just as much as what you plan to change. A great remodeler will guide you through a complex process with expertise, transparency, and professionalism. And in a world of DIY shows and social media inspiration, it can be tempting to cut corners or rush the hiring process. But a remodel is a major investment in your home — and your peace of mind depends on getting it right from the start.

So, what does hiring a professional remodeler actually look like?

More blog posts

5 Smart Questions to Ask a Builder

Every fall, thousands of Minnesotans step into some of the most beautiful new homes in the state during the Parade of Homes. Whether you’re just gathering ideas or seriously considering building, these open houses are an incredible opportunity to learn — not just about design trends and floor plans, but about the builders themselves.

If you’re touring with intent, you’ll want more than just photos of tile patterns and cabinet colors. A builder’s philosophy, communication style, and approach to quality are just as important as the aesthetics. So how do you go beyond “ooh” and “aah” while walking through these show stopping homes? Here are five smart, conversation starting questions that will help you dig deeper and walk away feeling more informed and confident in your builder search.

51 Advanced Certified Homes on the Fall Parade of Homes

Minnesota’s Green Path is lighting the way to energy-efficient homes of the future. Testing nearly 5,000 new construction homes per year, the Green Path certification program gives homeowners a clear understanding a home’s energy performance. With rigorous standards and independent, third-party raters, you can be confident in Green Path certifications.

Tour for a Cause: Introducing the 2025 Fall Dream Homes

Every time you purchase a ticket to tour a Dream Home on the Parade of Homes, you’re helping fund the work of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. This fall, five Dream Homes were hand-selected for their design, craftsmanship, and inspirational interiors.

These Dream Homes do more than showcase what’s possible in home design — they help make housing possible for our neighbors who need it most. Your $7 admission supports the Foundation’s work toward building safe housing for Minnesotans in need. Each visitor through the door helps a fellow Minnesotan finally have a place to call home.

Your Guide to Blaine, MN

Welcome to Blaine, Minnesota. Located just a short drive north of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, this beautiful community blends small-town charm with big-city convenience. Once a rural farming community, Blaine has grown into a vibrant suburban city known for its family-friendly atmosphere, lush parks, and easy access to the Twin Cities.

When you're considering a move, Blaine offers the ideal balance of peaceful living and modern amenities. Keep reading to discover the best of what Blaine has to offer.

How to Choose the Perfect Paint Color for Your Home: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Choosing the right paint color for your home can be overwhelming. With endless shades and finishes available, it’s easy to make mistakes that lead to regret later. Here, Jean Haukaas, Hirshfield's Design Resource Showroom manager, shares some of the most common paint color mistakes homeowners make — and how to avoid them.

November 23, 2022

9 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Professional Remodeler

You've been dreaming of remodeling your home for months, and the time has finally come to get the project underway. While it might be tempting to dive right in, the first step is to find a qualified, reputable remodeling pro. After all, the contractor you pick can make — or break — your remodeling project. So, how do you ensure you end up with the best contractor for the job? By asking the right questions! Here are nine questions to ask when looking for a professional remodeler.

Builders & Remodelers
Remodeling
November 18, 2022

Coastal Cottage Flair

After years of helping clients build their dream homes, this builder put herself in her customers’ shoes to design her family’s dream home.

Real Stories
November 2, 2022

Looking for an Energy-Efficient Home? Why You Should Ask for a Home Performance Report

With today's energy codes, a newly built home in Minnesota is more efficient than ever. Add in advancements in building science and new energy products, and you can be sure that all the new homes you'll find on the Parade of Homes will save you energy dollars over virtually all older homes.

Technology
October 31, 2022

20 Outstanding Parade Homes Win Fall Reggie Awards

Since 1968, Housing First Minnesota has presented the Reggie Award℠, which recognizes excellence in design and construction of homes in the Parade of Homes. The Trillium Awards honor the associates and trade partners for their collaboration with these award-winning builders.

Home Tours
October 25, 2022

Flair & Function

Featured on the 2022 Fall Remodelers Showcase, this multi-part remodel by Crystal Kitchen & Bath exhibits both flair and function.

Design
Real Stories
October 25, 2022

Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway Makes Homeownership Dream Come True

At one point, Lori’s dream of owning her own place felt far out of reach. Until she was selected as a winner of the Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway and was able to close on her very first home.

Real Stories
October 19, 2022

Get Ready For More Artisan!

We’re pleased to announce there will be not one, but TWO Artisan Home Tours next year — we hope you can join us!

Home Tours
October 17, 2022

The Beginner's Guide to Buying a New Construction Home

Have you been thinking about buying a new construction home? Before jumping in, take some time to learn the ins and outs of buying and building a new home. Keep reading for an overview and some tips to kick off the process.

No items found.
October 7, 2022

A Marvelous Main-Level Makeover

When Kathleen, Andrew, and their five children made the move from Texas to Minnesota, they did what many families are doing these days — bought their new home sight unseen! Learn the story behind this recently-featured home on the Remodelers Showcase.

Builders & Remodelers
Real Stories
October 3, 2022

Fresh Bathroom Trends That Make a Splash

Trends in bathroom design combine what’s new with what we really want. A spa-inspired bathroom does not have to be huge, because some popular options don’t require more space. And often layouts can be reconfigured, creating the ultimate spot to relax and refresh.

Design
September 28, 2022

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Remodeler

Are you ready to make updates to your home? Hire a professional remodeler to make sure the job is done the right way.

Builders & Remodelers
Remodeling
September 20, 2022

The Homebuyer's Dictionary: Terms You Should Know When Buying or Building a Home

New to the homebuying world? It may be time to update your vocabulary! To make sure that you are ready for the homebuying process, browse these terms related to real estate, building or buying a new home, or browsing homes near you on the Parade of Homes.

Home Tips & Tricks
September 19, 2022

2022 Fall Parade of Homes In the News

The 2022 Fall Parade of Homes Twin Cities is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across Minnesota. Here are all the places the fall tour has been covered in the press.

Home Tours