Home defines the place in which we seek refuge and where we gather with friends and loved ones. As circumstances change, lifestyle needs transform and where we call home changes. That said, the strenuous past few years have not been without struggles for all. 

Today we see with the recovering economy our communities seeking to restore balance. Homeowners and home buyers are moving forward with refined focus.

It has been our aim to assist our clients and their families in this venture, setting the standard for the real estate industry. We've been matching homes with lifestyles for over thirty years and as a team we've never been stronger. We truly enjoy what we do and it is satisfying and fulfilling for us to help our clients in their journey…

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What do you do when you can't go out? You go up!

Home decorating tips have long utilized illusions to enhance and optimize form and function of tight quarters. Take for instance drapery applications in a standard bedroom with the window set in the middle of the wall. When flanked by floor-to-ceiling drapes it gives the illusion of a wall of windows, which in turn translates into the room having the sense of being larger and more open.

By taking it a step further, why not employ the same idea with doorways and closets? Traditional doorways in a 12x10 room typically are just under seven feet high -- mere inches above a grown adult's head whereas a ceiling-to-floor doorway increases the headroom by at least a foot. This gives the illusion of higher…

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We sprang forward last Spring, and we are now approaching that time of year when we 'Fall Back'.

Ever wonder why Daylight Saving Time?

For many, we perhaps once knew the answer, but unless you have a school-aged person in your household, its been long forgotten.

For those of us who need a refresher, link to view this informative article posted last year at this time, National Geographic Daily News  - "Daylight Saving Time 2012: Why and When Does it Begin?"

Remember to set your clocks back one hour when you go to bed Saturday, November 2nd--and enjoy that extra hour of sleep!

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Invariably as the calendar turns another page to October when seasons transition between glorious fall colors and winter's glistening fluffy white snow, leaves fall from tree branches while gray skies cast shadows making even the lovliest of properties appear drab and lonely.

Wise homeowners with properties on the market take care to keep window boxes and planters filled with happy seasonal colors, keeping up with leaf raking, and having their property well lit and inviting with outdoor landscape lighting.

It's during this shoulder season that movie theaters and television networks promote the macabre Halloween season by airing an onslaught of all things scary leading up to the unholy holiday. Being in the forefront of viewers…

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For many it's in the details. Bringing back fond memories of days gone bye, there are certain elements of function that have been lost as design and technology advance.

Many of such home details that hearken back to our childhood years are making a comeback. Once essentials, these lost design elements are finding their way back into today's architecture.

See if you recall any from your family's past homes... 

Yahoo! HOMES article 'Old House Features We Were Wrong To Abandon'

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While settling into a new home making it your own is of utmost importance. However, what's in today may be out tomorrow.

When preparing one's home for the market, addressing updates is key if one is to be competitive with its comparables. Before investing valuable time and dollars, ask yourself: Who is this remodel for?

Note this interesting Yahoo! HOMES article on the subject, 'Kitchen Remodel Trends To Avoid'

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Recently, a new trend in home improvement competition television shows has introduced an interesting format.

By taking X amount of dollars and within 2, 3, or 4 days time reinvesting those dollars by making home improvements which would translate into increased home value, the team that does the best quality of work and improves the home market value the most--wins. This premise (caveat a little Hollywood magic) proves that a few well spent dollars and some elbow grease will increase your home's property value.

Although the concept itself isn't new, the awakening of the public to this idea has reinfused energy into the real estate market. What does that mean for home sellers? It could mean having the edge over the competition and lead to a…

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Did you know that there's a difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved? It may seem to be 'tomatoes, tomatos...potatoes, potatos' but not knowing the facts could cost you. For example, what is a 'no cost loan'...should you lock in at a rate...how do you get the best rate for your mortgage? An informed buyer is a prepared buyer. Knowing the facts about these important points and knowing what questions to ask is the first step towards buying your next home.

Note this article as it outlines key facts about your mortgage that could translate into big savings over the life of your loan,

Yahoo! HOMES article What You Need To Know Before You Get A Mortgage

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As our economy revives, the real estate market has proven to be on the buyer's side leading many to feel that they can take their time while selecting a new home. However, the promise of a healthier economy has interest rates on the rise.

Procrastinators Beware! Stalling and failure to commit to a purchase can cost you valuable dollars on the bottom line--which in turn could mean the difference between the house of your dreams and second best!

So perhaps it's time to ask yourself, 'What are we waiting for? '

Yahoo! HOMES article - Your Cost for WAITING to Buy A Home

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Coldwell Banker Burnet Press Release:

Barry Berg Named Top Sales Producer for 2012 

EDINA, MN (July 16, 2013) – Barry Berg, sales associate with Coldwell Banker Burnet, was recently recognized for his outstanding real estate sales performance in 2012. Berg, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Burnet’s Minneapolis Lakes office, was ranked number one in sales for 2012 out of nearly 1,800 sales associates in the company. 

Berg achieved the company’s number one agent ranking by completing more than $50 million in sales, representing 60 transactions in 2012.  

“Barry specializes in upper bracket properties and continually ranks among the top one percent of all Coldwell Banker agents nationally,” said Matt Baker, branch vice president. “Barry and his…

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