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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

The Evolution of Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is evolving in new construction. Moving beyond standalone gadgets like smart speakers or video doorbells, homeowners are shifting their attention to more meaningful, lifestyle-focused systems that are integrated across the entire home. Fortunately, these technologies are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible. Read onto learn experts’ best practices for installing these smart devices and how they’re benefitting Twin Cities homeowners.

2026 Spring Parade of Homes | In the News

The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across the Twin Cities Metro and Rochester. Here's a roundup of all the press coverage highlighting this year's Spring Parade of Homes.

2025 Fall Parade of Homes | In the News

The 2025 Fall Parade of Homes Twin Cities is your chance to see the latest in new home construction from builders across Minnesota. Here’s a roundup of all the press coverage highlighting this year’s Fall Parade of Homes.

From Inspiration to Reality: Using a HELOC To Fund Your Favorite Features From the Parade of Homes

This is a sponsored message by Magnifi Financial

When you wander through the Parade of Homes, it is easy to feel like you've stepped into a home-design fairytale. One minute, you're admiring a dreamy chef’s kitchen with a dazzling island, and the next you're captivated by a wall of windows that floods a living room with sunshine. These environments do more than showcase beautiful design. They spark ideas and stir your imagination. But once the tour ends and you’re back home, those “I wish I could have that” moments can feel out of reach. That's where a Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, can help. Think of it as a flexible financing tool that's tied to your home’s value. It's ready to support the projects you care about most, without the stress of high-interest credit cards.

New Homeowner Checklist: Fall Maintenance Reminders for Your New Build

Congratulations! You’re the first owner of a brand-new home. Everything is fresh, modern, and built just for you. No weird smells, dated finishes, or mystery repairs hiding behind the walls. But while new construction gives you a major head start on maintenance, you’ll want to make sure you’re taking care of your investment. Fall in Minnesota can be unpredictable, and winter isn’t far behind. Now is the time to make sure your home is ready for the changing season, especially if this is your first time owning a home. Think of this checklist as your introduction to proactive homeownership, doing a few smart things now will keep your new home in top shape and help you avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Here’s what to know as you head into your first fall.

From House to Home: How to Feel Connected in Your New Community

Buying a new home is about more than square footage and finishes, it’s about planting roots in a place where you feel welcomed, connected, and truly at home. As you tour neighborhoods during the Fall Parade of Homes, you might be imagining morning walks on the trails, stopping by the coffee shop downtown, or that first invite to a backyard bonfire. But how do you actually make that vision come to life once you’ve moved in? Whether you’re new to the Midwest or simply relocating across town, feeling at home in your community takes intention. But the good news? You don’t have to wait years to feel connected. Here are some smart, simple ways to get to know your new neighborhood.

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.

February 24, 2022

Signs to Buy New

Deciding if a new construction home is for you might be simpler than you think. Here are five signs that it’s time to buy new.

Home Tips & Tricks
February 22, 2022

Introducing the Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway

The Parade of Homes has a proud legacy of providing homeownership opportunities in our state. In our continued commitment to expanding the opportunity for homeownership for everyone, everywhere in our state, we’re pleased to launch the Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway!

Housing News
February 18, 2022

Dream Homes Featured on the Spring Parade of Homes & Remodelers Showcase

These six stunning homes on the 2022 Spring Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase have been hand-selected by our Housing First Minnesota Foundation as this spring’s Dream Homes.

Five breathtaking new homes will leave you in awe, plus don’t miss one incredible Remodeled Dream Home the final weekend of the tour.

Your $5 tax-deductible entry fee to each of these five homes will go to support the work of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation building and renovating transitional housing facilities for Minnesota’s homeless, veterans, and others in need. Visiting all the homes? An all-access pass is now available (online only!) so you can save when touring all six homes. Learn more about the Foundation and purchase your tickets in advance here >>

Home Tours
February 8, 2022

Spring 2022 | Calendar of Events

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

Home Tours
December 10, 2021

Nor-Son Custom Builders | Everything Home Minnesota Featured Builder

Builders featured on the annual Artisan Home Tour have the talent and expertise it takes to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. They employ the most gifted craftspeople and choose products and materials that embody quality and beauty.

Explore the companies featured in our annual Everything Home Minnesota resource guide that are committed to delivering the home of your dreams.

Builders & Remodelers
November 29, 2021

Kootenia Homes | Everything Home Minnesota Featured Builder

Builders featured on the annual Artisan Home Tour have the talent and expertise it takes to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. They employ the most gifted craftspeople and choose products and materials that embody quality and beauty.

Explore the companies featured in our annual Everything Home Minnesota resource guide that are committed to delivering the home of your dreams.

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November 21, 2021

Gordon James | Everything Home Minnesota Featured Builder

Builders featured on the annual Artisan Home Tour have the talent and expertise it takes to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. They employ the most gifted craftspeople and choose products and materials that embody quality and beauty.

Explore the companies featured in our annual Everything Home Minnesota resource guide that are committed to delivering the home of your dreams.

Builders & Remodelers
November 17, 2021

15 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
November 11, 2021

AMEK, Inc. | Everything Home Minnesota Featured Remodeler

Whether you’re looking to build from the ground up, searching for a new home that’s move-in ready, or transforming your current home, choosing the right builder or remodeler is essential.

Explore the companies featured in our annual Everything Home Minnesota resource guide that are committed to delivering the home of your dreams.

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November 2, 2021

Creative Homes, Inc. | Everything Home Minnesota Featured Builder

Whether you’re looking to build from the ground up, searching for a new home that’s move-in ready, or transforming your current home, choosing the right builder or remodeler is essential.

Explore the companies featured in our annual Everything Home Minnesota resource guide that are committed to delivering the home of your dreams.

Builders & Remodelers
October 25, 2021

Making the Most of Your Lower Level

When it comes to making the most of your lower level, the options are endless. Although some people prefer to keep things cohesive with the rest of the home, you have a lot more freedom to get creative with the design elements. Here are some room ideas to give your lower level a little personality and ensure it fits your lifestyle just right.

Design
Home Tips & Tricks
October 18, 2021

Built to Last

These six design trends have stood the test of time. Here, Twin Cities design professionals share how to incorporate them into your own home.

Design
Home Tips & Tricks
October 17, 2021

Building Futures Through Housing

The Housing First Minnesota Foundation is a nonprofit organization that builds and remodels transitional housing for Minnesotans in need. We believe every individual has worth and human dignity and deserves the basic provision of shelter as a necessity of life. Every time you visit a Dream Home on the Parade of Homes or Remodelers Showcase, you're helping to support the Foundation's work to end homelessness in Minnesota.

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