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

April 6, 2023

Why People are Buying New Construction in 2023

The housing market is constantly changing — and so are people's preferences for what constitutes the "home of their dreams." What's on your must-have list? Is it a spacious kitchen with ample storage? What about a neighborhood near family and friends? Are you most interested in modern technology features? We looked at the latest trends (according to Zillow) in new construction to find out what home features many people are falling in love with in 2023.

March 23, 2023

What is a Home Performance Report?

When looking to buy a new home, knowing the ins and outs of your purchase is important. Being informed about the many aspects of your home allows you to manage, evaluate, and make decisions that best suit you. When exploring purchasing a new home and wondering about a home's energy efficiency, ask for a Home Performance Report (HPR).

March 17, 2023

How Do You Style a Room Like an Interior Designer?

From complementary paint colors and timeless finishes to bold accents and curated furniture collections, it’s easy to spot a room where the design elements come together seamlessly. But that perceived effortlessness can be difficult to achieve without the touch of an experienced design professional. Here, Twin Cities interior designers break down how different elements in four local new build spaces blend to create a look that is cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.

March 16, 2023

Spring 2023 | Calendar of Events

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

March 14, 2023

Unique Tour Types on the Parade of Homes

Whether you’re looking for a spec home that’s move-in ready, a brand new neighborhood, or a floor plan foundation to build your dream home from, the Parade of Homes has the home entry for you. We make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for with these unique home types.

September 29, 2025

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.

No items found.
September 23, 2025

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.

No items found.
September 23, 2025

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.

No items found.
September 15, 2025

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.

No items found.
September 4, 2025

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.

No items found.
September 2, 2025

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.

No items found.
August 18, 2025

Fall 2025 | Calendar of Events

Don’t miss out! Mark your calendars and check out these upcoming special events during the Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase.

Events
August 12, 2025

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.

Home Tours
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?

Remodeling
Home Tips & Tricks
June 30, 2025

Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway: Meet the Thompsons

How the Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway Helped Make Their Dream of Homeownership Come True

Real Stories
May 23, 2025

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.

Community Guide
May 5, 2025

The Future of Smart Homes: Emerging Wellness Tech to Watch

The next wave of smart home technology is set to revolutionize wellness-focused living. Kristin Reinitz of Admit One Home Systems and Aurora One Lighting share some innovations homeowners should keep an eye on.

Technology
Housing News
April 28, 2025

Reggie Awards Given to 12 Spring Parade Homes

Introducing the 2025 Spring Reggie & Trillium Award Winners!

No items found.