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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.

September 15, 2022

6 Questions to Ask When Buying Windows

Commonly asked questions about window types, features to look for, and maintenance tips. Brought to you by our 2022 Remodelers Showcase sponsor, Marvin.

Home Tips & Tricks
September 8, 2022

5 Tips for Planning Your Tour

The Parade of Homes is your perfect opportunity to walk through new construction homes and remodel projects, see the latest in home design, and connect with the talented builders who brought each home to life. There are hundreds of options across Minnesota—so how do you choose homes and start planning your tour route? We've got some helpful advice.

Home Tips & Tricks
Home Tours
September 8, 2022

How Your Dream Home Ticket Helps End Homelessness

Housing is everything for those in need of secure and dignified shelter. Each visit to a Dream Home on the Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase can help someone out of homelessness.

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August 31, 2022

Q&A With an Economist: Buying a Home in Today's Market

There are a lot of headlines surrounding housing right now. With rising interest rates and inflation, many are wondering if it is a good time to buy a home. We asked internationally renowned economist Elliot Eisenberg, PhD., about his thoughts on the housing market, the overall economy, and where we stand historically.

Housing News
August 16, 2022

Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway Makes Homeownership a Reality

Like many young Minnesotans, Wyatt and Sarah dreamed of someday owning a home. After a year of renting following Wyatt’s return home from the Army, they decided to start house hunting. With the market as competitive as it is, they were nervous how long it would take to get an offer accepted and if they would be able to find a home in their price range.

Real Stories
August 12, 2022

Fall 2022 | Calendar of Events

Don’t miss these special events put on by select builders and remodelers during the 2022 fall tour! These free events will introduce you to the teams behind the homes on the tour, the latest design trends, and much more.

Home Tours
August 10, 2022

8 Outdoor Features to Make Your Backyard Cozy & Inviting

Summer in Minnesota — a favorite season for many. And there’s no better way to spend it than outdoors. While cabins, camping, or trips to the lake are favorite ways to enjoy the summer weather, you can also make the most of your space at home. Soak up some sun or host friends from the comfort of your backyard. Whether it’s bringing in some new outdoor furniture or considering an addition, here are eight outdoor features and spaces that make for an extra-inviting backyard.

Design
Home Tips & Tricks
June 16, 2022

2022 Artisan Home Tour | In the News

The 2022 Artisan Home Tour is your chance to step inside homes designed and constructed by the region’s most exceptional builders and remodelers. These artisans create incredible residences that blend artistic vision with unmatched craftsmanship. Check out all the places this summer's tour of luxury homes in Minnesota has been covered in the press.

Home Tours
Housing News
May 27, 2022

Fresh Artisan Home Trends

Artisan Home Tour sponsors sound off on the features, finishes, and trends that embody the latest innovations in design and construction.

Design
Home Tours
April 27, 2022

19 Outstanding Parade Homes Win Spring 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
April 26, 2022

Remodeling For Small Spaces

From reading nooks to dual-purpose workstations, Twin Cities housing professionals sound off on tips for reimagining your spaces—no matter how small.

Builders & Remodelers
Remodeling
April 22, 2022

Relaxing Retreats

Eight design trends and ideas to create a spa-like bedroom and en suite bathroom at home.

Design
Home Tips & Tricks
April 20, 2022

See The Light, Not Your Neighbor

Brought to you by our 2022 Remodelers Showcase sponsor, Marvin.

Home Tips & Tricks