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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

A Personal Retreat

If the kitchen is known as the heart of the home, the primary suite should be the mind of the home, serving as a space you can truly unwind and recharge. Read on to learn local home professionals’ advice for designing a primary suite sanctuary that supports your body and mind.

Hue Got This: Home Color Guide

When it comes to designing a home that fosters health, happiness, and wellbeing, color is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. The colors we choose for our walls influence how we feel, think, and interact in our spaces. By tapping into the principles of color psychology, you can curate a home that nurtures calmness, sparks energy, or inspires joy.

“Choose colors based on the mood you want to evoke,” says Jean Haukaas, Hirshfield’s Design Resource showroom manager. “Calm, neutral tones like soft blues and grays work well in bedrooms, while brighter, more energetic hues can suit kitchens or playrooms.”

A Space of Their Own

Newlyweds Gina Wolleat-Zorn and Darrell Zorn built their dream home in Ham Lake to accommodate her interior design business, his love for cooking, and their blended family of adult children.

Induction Cooking: Pros & Cons

Induction cooking combines the speed and precision of gas with the easy cleanup and eco-friendly benefits of electric appliances. These stoves heat water more quickly, activate only when cookware is present, and consistently outperform other cooktops according to consumer evaluations. Moreover, you may be eligible for financial incentives when you purchase an induction range under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Connected Living: How Technology is Redefining Healthy Living at Home

In today’s fast-paced world, creating a home centered around your health and well-being is more important than ever. Homebuyers are increasingly seeking ways to integrate wellness into their living spaces, and smart home technology is stepping up to meet the challenge. From air purification systems to circadian lighting and advanced water monitoring, experts share how health-focused smart tech is reshaping how we think about our homes.

Discover Minnesota’s Home Tour Events: The Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and Artisan Home Tour

Minnesota home tours are the can't-miss events of the year for home design enthusiasts, with not just one but three styles of tours to explore, dream, and gather inspiration. The Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and Artisan Home Tour each provide a unique glimpse into the world of home buying, design, and renovating. Whether you’re building, remodeling, or just curious, these events have something special to offer. Save the dates for the 2025 events!

Staff Picks: The Best Twin Cities Pizza Joints

From gooey classics to gourmet creations, pizza is a universal love language. We've scoured the Twin Cities and beyond for the best pizza spots, handpicked by our staff. Whether you’re craving wood-fired wonders or bold, inventive toppings, these spots deliver the perfect slice every time.

Staff Picks: The Best Twin Cities Coffee Shops

Explore the best local coffee spots recommended by the Parade of Homes staff. From cozy neighborhood cafes to trendy urban roasters, these are the places we keep coming back to for a perfect cup of coffee (or tea!).

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.

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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