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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

March 13, 2023

Tour & Toast to Women in Construction

To celebrate Women in Construction Week and International Women's Day, the Parade of Homes hosted a champagne toast at two magnificent Dream Homes on the Spring Parade of Homes. The goal was to bring together women in the housing industry to honor their impact, celebrate their accomplishments, and highlight the opportunities available to women in construction.

February 27, 2023

Falen on Making Her Home Her Own

For many homebuyers, there is a specific feature or look to a home that inspires them to buy, but making the home fit your personal style can be a process. For KDWB radio star and influencer Falen, making her home feel like her own has become a passion project.

February 27, 2023

Everyone Deserves a Place to Call Home

The Dream Homes on the Parade of Homes support the Housing First Minnesota Foundation’s work towards building safe housing for Minnesotans in need of shelter with a vision of ending homelessness. Your admission helps build futures through housing.

February 20, 2023

Jason DeRusha's Home Bar Must-Haves and Twin Cities Favorites

If there’s anything the past two years have taught us, it's that sometimes entertaining in the comfort of your home can be just as fun as going out. But imitating the well-crafted cocktails or mocktails from your favorite local spot is sometimes easier said than done. We went to one of the Twin Cities' experts on eating and drinking out for advice on how to bring the experience home—Jason DeRusha.

February 16, 2023

Your Guide to 2023 Mortgage Options

Changes in mortgage rates have many homebuyers wondering what they can afford and whether now is a good time to buy. Despite higher interest rates, there are many bright spots in the housing market right now. This is especially true for homebuyers looking to buy a new home. It’s important for homebuyers to understand the many available financing options to utilize in today’s housing market.

February 14, 2023

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

The selections are in and you won’t want to miss the Spring 2023 Dream Homes! These are the homes that are ready to WOW you. The ones you’re pinning on Pinterest and ogling over in magazines. And they’re the perfect place to grab inspiration for your home. This year, there are five new homes and one remodeled home that were hand-selected as Dream Homes. Admission is $5 and supports the Housing First Minnesota Foundation’s work as it builds and renovates transitional housing facilities for Minnesotans experiencing homelessness, veterans, and others in need.

Purchase your tickets online!

February 7, 2023

8 Home Features With Increased Demand Post-COVID

It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped consumer behaviors. When it comes to shopping—online orders skyrocketed for retail, food service shifted to take-out and delivery orders, and instead of going on vacations or social events with large crowds, people pivoted to at-home activities. Homebuyers and homeowners reflected a similar shift. With people spending so much time at home, there was a renewed focus on transforming homes into a cozy, relaxing, functional space. So, what are buyers and homeowners looking for in 2023? Here are 8 home features that have skyrocketed in demand post-pandemic.

December 21, 2022

5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

It’s finally here…wintertime in Minnesota. You know what that means—dropping temperatures, icy roads, and lots of snow. Making sure you and your home are prepared to handle winter weather is crucial. There are a few key areas we recommend checking up on as soon as possible.

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