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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.

August 24, 2023

Introducing Ope'n Haus: Our Signature Anniversary Brew!

In honor of our 75th anniversary, we're excited to announce our limited-edition beer with Bauhaus Brew Labs!

Home Tours
August 22, 2023

Traveling Back in Time with the Parade of Homes

The Parade of Homes is 75 this year! In honor of our big milestone anniversary, we’re taking a walk down memory lane to see how far we’ve come and how things have changed.

Home Tours
August 22, 2023

Six Dream Homes Featured on the Fall Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase

Your perfect dream home is here! This year, 5 new construction homes and 1 remodeled home were chosen for the Fall 2023 Dream Homes. The epitome of class and refinement, these gorgeous homes are the best place to find inspiration and current trends. Admission to each home is $5, and every penny supports the Housing First Minnesota Foundation in providing homes for veterans and other Minnesotans in need of homes.

Purchase your single home tickets or all-access pass today!

Home Tours
August 16, 2023

Fall 2023 │ Calendar of Events

Don’t miss these special events put on by select builders and remodelers during the 2023 fall tours! These events will introduce you to the teams behind the homes on the tour, the latest design trends, and much more.

Home Tours
August 4, 2023

Signs It's Time to Find Your Dream House

Your home is more than just a place to lay your head at night; it's a reflection of your dreams, aspirations, and the life you want to build. For many, the idea of finding their dream house might seem like a distant fantasy. However, with the right approach and the help of a new construction builder, turning that dream into reality becomes entirely possible. Here, we explore some signs that is time to embark on the journey of finding your dream house.

Builders & Remodelers
July 27, 2023

How Homes Have Evolved Since the 1950s

A home is strong and steady, a place you can return to when you’re worn out and need to relax. It’s a place of memories, family, and laughter. But was it always this way?

Housing News
July 18, 2023

The Birthplace of the Home Tour

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Parade of Homes!

Home Tours
Housing News
April 28, 2023

How to Add Color in Your Kitchen

Looking to liven up your kitchen design with color but not sure what direction to go in? Whether you’re ready for a vibrant color-splash or prefer more subtle options, we’ve got the guiding questions to help you find your answers. With these easy color additions, you can get the effect of a total kitchen makeover without breaking the bank.

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April 27, 2023

Reggie Awards Given to 21 Spring Parade Homes

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.

Builders & Remodelers
April 20, 2023

5 Ways to Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Building and remodeling greener homes is an important part of taking care of our planet. Improving energy efficiency can be simple and cost-effective — and it's better for the environment. But where do you start?

Technology
April 19, 2023

2023 Remodeling Trends

What's trending in the world of home transformations and renovations? Twin Cities builders and remodelers break down the remodeling trends they’re anticipating this year.

Remodeling
April 11, 2023

7 Front Door Trends to Increase Your Curb Appeal

Talk about a first impression! The entrance to your home is the first thing people see when they arrive — so why shouldn’t it make a statement? Whatever your style or budget, there are plenty of ways to add an instant dose of curb appeal through your home’s entrance. Here are our favorite front door styles and some contemporary trends that steal the show.

Design
April 10, 2023

6 Rooms Where You Should Consider Adding Tile

When we say "tile," we know your head goes straight to bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes. But the design possibilities are endless when it comes to using tile in your home. Plus, with the infinite combinations of size, shape, color, pattern, and finish, you can bring personality and versatility to any space in your home. Looking for some inspiration on what spaces could benefit from a tile upgrade? We’ve got you covered.

Design