Linda Johnson - Coldwell Banker Realtor

10/26/2026

🎃 A Little Spooky, A Lot of Fun at Valleyfair! 👻

Looking for a Halloween adventure the whole family can enjoy? Valleyfair's Tricks and Treats in Shakopee is serving up plenty of fall fun, sweet treats, and just the right amount of spooky! 🍬

📅 Select Saturdays & Sundays through November 1, 2026

📍 Valleyfair | Shakopee, MN

Here's what you can look forward to:

🎭 Dress up and join the Halloween costume contest!

🍭 Enjoy seasonal goodies and plenty of candy!

🎢 Take a spin on your favorite rides!

👻 Explore festive Halloween activities for kids and grown-ups alike!

Whether you've got little pumpkins or bigger thrill-seekers in the family, there's something for everyone.

After all, Halloween isn't just for kids — some of us grown-ups still appreciate a good excuse to dress up and eat candy! 🍫😉

🍂 Make some fall memories before the season disappears!

🔗 Event details: https://www.minnesotaparent.com/tricks-and-treats-at-valleyfair/

10/23/2026

An inspection contingency isn’t just a formality, it’s your window to make smart decisions about costly repairs 🕵️‍♂️

When you include an inspection contingency in your purchase agreement, you’re claiming valuable time to fully understand what repairs really matter for your new home. Use this window to investigate any major issues, compare the impact of needed repairs on your budget and ownership plans, and decide if negotiating, accepting as-is, or walking away is the best move.

In competitive transactions, buyers earn more credibility by focusing on urgent concerns, like structural, mechanical, or safety problems, rather than minor fixes. Your requests and solutions should be clear and specific, all spelled out in writing so everyone knows what’s expected and by when. 📑

If you need more time or want a repair handled in a certain way, get it documented as part of the agreement. A carefully managed contingency not only preserves your negotiating power but also protects your investment and peace of mind. 🔒

Have you ever used an inspection contingency to solve a tricky repair situation? Share your story or questions below!

10/22/2026

My latest RateMyAgent review in Plymouth.
MN 89770
https://rma.reviews/3dw4cvb6giiw
..

10/15/2026

Comparing mortgage offers can open up new options, even when rates are higher than what many expected. 🏡

In today’s market, buyers aren’t just choosing between loan rates. Payment comfort comes down to looking at the full picture: property taxes, insurance, association fees, and upkeep costs all factor in, not just the headline number. Taking a close look at what you’ll actually pay each month helps prevent surprises later.

It also pays to get multiple lender quotes and review both fixed and adjustable-rate options including rate buydown options, as long as you’re clear on how payments could change over time. Local programs or incentives might reduce upfront costs, but double-check eligibility and availability before you count on them. As a practice, I work through these factors with clients, highlighting which details really move the numbers so you’re focused on what truly fits your life.

If you’re weighing different mortgage options in Minnetonka, what details feel most overwhelming, or most helpful, as you compare? Tell me below.


-TimeHomeBuyers

10/14/2026

Chanhassen’s market shows 28 homes listed around $740,000, averaging 22 days on market. Prices hover near $237/sq ft with 18 new listings in 30 days. About 18% cut prices; 22% are relisted. Ready to discuss your next move? I’m here to help! 🏡📊🕒

10/13/2026

Happy birthday US Navy! Had a visit from a couple sailors recently. Great to see you!

10/13/2026

In today’s real estate market, real affordability starts with your true monthly payment, not just the listing price. 🏡

With borrowing costs shaping every conversation, buyers are focusing on what they’ll actually pay each month, from loan payments and taxes to insurance, maintenance, and association fees. Looking past headline rates and calculating your full monthly outlay is the move that sets successful offers apart. Even with more homes to choose from lately, carefully aligning your payment with your comfort level lets you act quickly and confidently when the right fit comes up.

Taking time to review every piece of the budget, not only the loan, gives you real clarity and peace of mind. Local programs can sometimes help with upfront costs for those who qualify, but it’s essential to confirm eligibility and terms before you count on that assistance.

Are you focusing on monthly payment as your guide, or do you still think in terms of total price? Tell me how you’re approaching it! If you are looking to buy a home contact me and we will work together to find you a home.


-TimeHomeBuyers

10/12/2026

Wondering which room deserves a paint refresh before selling? 🎨

A single, well-chosen coat of neutral paint can make a powerful first impression, without the time and cost of a whole-house makeover. The goal isn’t to reinvent the space, but to help buyers see themselves living there. Start by looking for the room with the most visible wear or the boldest, dated colors. In most Minneapolis homes, the living room or entryway is the first thing buyers see, making it a smart target for an update. 🏡

A fresh, cohesive finish signals that the home is move-in ready and well cared for, details that help your property stand out in a market where presentation shapes perception. Sometimes, focusing on one strategic space beats spreading your budget too thin. ✨

If you were prepping for a move, which room would you refresh first? Tell me below!

10/11/2026

October 12th is National Farmer's Day. Look across the plains of midwestern states this time of year, and you’ll see it in action: combines rolling from dawn 'til dusk, gathering the golden bounty of the harvest. On October 12th, we celebrate the incredible people behind that bounty on National Farmer's Day. It's a day to give a much-deserved salute to the men, women, and families who are the backbone of our nation and the stewards of our land.

Set perfectly in the midst of harvest season, this is our chance to recognize the relentless hard work that puts food on our tables and keeps our country running.

Paul Harvey said it best...So God Made a Farmer...

This is "Paul Harvey - So God Made A Farmer.mp4" by Heartstone Pictures on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.