Good conversations start with good questions. That’s why Barry and Chad rounded up some of the ones they hear most often. You’ll find their general responses below—but don’t hesitate to reach out for advice tailored to your unique situation. With decades of experience, they’re always ready to offer insight and guidance. Just ask.

 

Buyers Ask:

Will I need a lender pre-approval letter if I’m going to write an offer on a home?

Yes, we will need to provide that with any offer, if you will be obtaining a mortgage. This will be especially critical if we find ourselves in a competitive offer situation, as listing agents and sellers will need to know that you can secure financing. However, if you are a cash buyer, you will need to provide some…

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Guidance from an experienced professional is vitally important. But, finding someone with expertise in the downtown condo market was even more important for Joshua Shaffer as he embarked on his first-time homebuying journey. A referral led him to the Berg Larsen Group.

“Right away when Barry and I met, he was interested in my preferences,” says Joshua. “His genuine care defined our approach to finding the right condo for me.”

Beyond the typical questions surrounding location and architectural design, Barry encouraged Joshua to consider the age of buildings, how many units they had, and how their HOAs were structured.

Joshua recalls, “Barry was invaluable in determining the unknown unknowns. He helped me identify the things I didn’t know to think…

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It’s never too early to connect with Chad Larsen and Barry Berg to talk about what’s next. 

No matter if you’re thinking six months or six years ahead, having a conversation is an opportunity to think about where you are now and what you might want in the future. 

“When people approach us to discuss what’s on their mind, we can act as their sounding board,” says Chad.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to listen, ask questions, and offer advice,” adds Barry. “A conversation isn’t a commitment. It’s a pressure-free environment to talk things through with a professional who can offer support and feedback.”

Since the 1980s, Chad and Barry have helped people navigate their next steps. 

“In 2024, 90% of our work was with past clients, their…

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Spring has arrived, bringing a bustling real estate market and a season of not-to-miss showings.

For buyers and sellers alike, it’s time to spring into action. 

Why Showings?

With abundant technology available to homebuyers—plentiful photos, schematic floor plans, and 3D virtual tours—many question whether it’s wise to rule out a well-located property before seeing it in person. 

“Those technological advancements are extremely valuable for establishing initial interest in a property or viewing properties as part of a long-distance house hunt, but it’ll never be the same as visiting a home in person,” explains Chad Larsen. “Often, the best houses don’t photograph as well as others, and you might just miss out on a gem.”

When you tour a home…

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February is the month of love and it’s the perfect time to talk about relationships—not just personal ones, but the ones that shape major life decisions, like buying or selling a home.

Just as relationships thrive on understanding how people give and receive love, successful real estate partnerships flourish when professionals recognize and meet their clients' unique needs. That’s exactly how Barry Berg and Chad Larsen approach their work.

In the acclaimed book, The 5 Love Languages, there are parallels to successful real estate relationships.

Quality Time  

From the very first conversation—whether via email, phone, or in person—Barry and Chad take the time to truly listen and understand their clients.

“Building these relationships…

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As we navigate through different life stages, where we call home often changes. For Rania and her husband, the desire to live closer to their grandkids led them from Kansas City to Minneapolis.

When they spotted Chad Larsen’s name on a listing for a home they were interested in, they reached out - setting in motion a series of serendipitous events.

“During our initial conversation, he asked us some questions about what we were looking for and explained the process of having a buyer's agent,” says Rania. “We were particularly interested in the Mill District, but we were still going back and forth on whether we wanted a house or a condo. So, we decided to tour the house with Chad and go from there.”

During the tour, Rania and her husband asked Chad…

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While you’re making appetizers for the biggest game of the year, don’t forget to start preparing for another major event: the spring real estate market. 

In the real estate world, the end of the football season is an unofficial kickoff to the spring market - the most active time of year for buying and selling homes. By the second week of February, there are serious buyers ready to see an inventory of superb properties.

If you’re considering a move this year, it’s time to huddle up with Chad Larsen and Barry Berg to get the play by play on how to score a real estate touchdown this season.  

Gear Up for the Big Game

“Preparation is the first step towards putting your best foot forward,” says Barry Berg. 

No matter the time of year, there’s…

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Music plays an important role in our lives and, especially during the Minnesotan winter, provides an essential light and joy. 

From marrying musicians to serving on the board at pillars of the Twin Cities’ arts community, music is woven into every aspect of our lives. That’s why this month, Chad Larsen, Barry Berg, Krista Eull, and Deb Shafer are sharing what music means to them.

What role does music play in your life?

Chad: “My father used to play music in the house when we were kids – contemporary music, but also classical orchestra music. So, I gained an appreciation for classical music. On Sundays, he would put on classical records and often organ music. It would echo through the house with its signature sound. I can still remember it to this…

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With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it seems our to-do lists quadruple. Whether you’re finalizing travel plans, crafting menus for family gatherings, or getting a head start on gift shopping, checking off these tasks now paves the way for a relaxed holiday season. 

Similarly, if you’re considering selling your home next year, we ask you to take one quick and simple action during November or December: Call the Berg Larsen Group. This conversation sets things in motion allowing you to enjoy the holidays with peace of mind, knowing you’re a step ahead. 

Find What Fits Year Round

The holiday season often reveals how your current home fits your needs.

Is your formal dining room large enough for the entire family to share a meal be it…

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Properties are particularly stunning during autumn, showcasing summer's remaining vibrant greens and transitioning into the reddish hues of fall. October offers an ideal window of opportunity for prospective buyers and sellers eager to move, and the current market is flush with variety and value. 

The Twin Cities upper-bracket market has gorgeous properties. If you’re starting your search for what’s next, Chad Larsen and Barry Berg encourage you to inquire and explore the options.

Chad Larsen tells buyers, “Many listings are selling quickly, so if you see something you like, don’t hesitate to schedule a showing.” 

Touring a home in person stimulates your imagination. Look out the living room window and picture yourself admiring the fall colors.…

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