Curtis Bechthold - Re/Max Results

01/12/2026

Was your house built before 1978?

Lead-Based Paint in Housing
Though lead-based paint for use in homes was banned in the U.S. in 1978, it is still present in millions of homes,
especially those built before 1978. Lead-based paint is usually not a hazard if it is in good condition. However,
deteriorating (peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, or damaged) lead-based paint is a hazard and needs prompt
attention.

Health Effects of Lead Exposure
Lead can affect almost every organ and system in the human body. Children under six years old are particularly
vulnerable because their bodies are still growing. In children, lead can cause delayed growth and development,
lower IQ, learning problems, brain and nervous system damage, and hearing, speech, and behavior problems. If
a pregnant person is exposed to lead, their developing baby can also be exposed. This can increase the risk of
miscarriage; cause the baby to be born too early or too small; harm the baby’s brain, kidneys, and nervous system;
or cause the child to have learning or behavioral problems.

If you think your home has high levels of lead, young children should get tested for lead. Even if they seem healthy. Wash children's toys often. Regularly clean floors, window sills and other surfaces.
Don't try to remove lead based paint yourself.

05/22/2025

04/17/2025

Getting your house ready to sell makes the home selling process simpler. Use this checklist to prepare your house for sale before listing it with a real estate agent.

03/18/2025

HAVING TROUBLE KEEPING UP WITH MORTGAGE PAYMENTS?
Or you think in the next few months you might find yourself in that situation? The sooner you talk to someone the better.
A Certified Distressed Property Expert is someone who will help homeowners with options to avoid foreclosure, primarily through short sale ex*****on.
A short sale is what someone with the CDPE designation specializes in. These transactions are sales when a financially distressed homeowner sells a property for less than what’s due on the mortgage.
Buyers can benefit from working with someone who has the CDPE designation. They can help buyers identify distressed properties on the market. If you’re a real estate investor or flipper or just looking for a good deal, having someone with first-hand knowledge of these properties can be a big advantage. The CDPE expert can help you determine which of the available short-sale properties are most likely to receive lender approval.
A CDPE’s role is to evaluate your financial situation and help you find out the available options. Having someone who understands these transactions will help you identify the most viable opportunities and save you some otherwise wasted time.
I have been a Certified Distressed Property Expert for 16 years. Please don't hesitate to call me if you would like to hear more information.

03/13/2025

Xcel Energy to deliver $318 million tax credit to Minnesotans!

Monday, Xcel Energy proposed to deliver $318 million back to Minnesota customers on their bills, with most of the refund coming from federal tax credits on the energy generated by the company’s nuclear fleet.

This is the first time customers will see savings from the federal tax credit on nuclear energy generation, which the company advocated for in recent law.

“We’re committed to supporting our state’s economic growth, investing in our communities, delivering reliable and resilient electricity, all while keeping customers’ bills as low as possible,” said Ryan Long, president of Xcel Energy—Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “Tax credits on nuclear energy generation produce savings for our customers, providing another way for our carbon-free, always-available nuclear fleet to create value for our customers and state.”

The nuclear energy generation tax credits will make up $176 million, about 55%, of the company’s overall $318 million refund as part of its annual Fuel Clause Adjustment process.

If approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, Xcel Energy estimates that the average residential customer will receive a total refund of $81, reducing their monthly bills through March 2026.

Xcel Energy uses a diverse set of energy resources to maintain reliable service while keeping customers’ bills low. The cost of fuel used to generate electricity makes up a portion of a customer’s monthly bill. If actual fuel costs are lower than expected, the company issues a refund to customers for this amount. The $318 million refund equals a 36% savings on the fuel portion of a customer’s electricity bill in 2025.

In addition to the nuclear energy generation tax credits, savings from lower fuel costs make up $94 million, or 30%, of the overall refund amount. The final $48 million is related to a 2011 outage at the company’s Sherco coal plant.

Nuclear Energy Powers Minnesota

The federal tax credit for nuclear energy generation was created under the Inflation Reduction Act. Nuclear energy enjoys broad support among policymakers and the public because it’s the only energy source available that is both carbon free and available 24/7.

Xcel Energy’s two nuclear power plants, Monticello and Prairie Island, together account for nearly 25% of the electricity used by customers across the company’s five-state Upper Midwest system.

Article from Patriot News

02/27/2025

We have complimentary tickets to the Minneapolis Home & Garden show, available for you! Let me know if you would like yours at no cost.
Home and Garden Show
March 5-9th
Minneapolis Convention Center

10/23/2024

Just reduced!

ML # 6593360 – New Photos Solid 1 1/2 story home with a block foundation installed in the 80's with an over sized 2 stall 26x30 detached garage (built about 5 years ago) with a concrete pad and side...

09/30/2024

Here are some things to avoid when buying a home:
1. Not making the right down payment
The size of your down payment affects your interest rate and monthly mortgage payments.
2. Changing jobs
Lenders want to see that you have a history of at least two years of employment to ensure you can pay off your mortgage.
3. Cosigning a loan
Co-signing a loan increases your debt, even if you aren't making the payments.
4. Not addressing outdated electrical
Outdated electrical systems can be a safety hazard and may need to be replaced immediately.
5. Not having a home inspection
Look for signs like misaligned doors, cracks in the walls, and sloping floors. If you notice these issues, have a professional inspect the foundation before buying.
6. Making expensive purchases
Avoid making expensive purchases before buying a home.
7. Switching banks
Avoid switching banks or moving money around unnecessarily before buying a home.
8. Giving a good faith deposit directly to the seller
Avoid giving a good faith deposit directly to the seller in a FSBO purchase.
Buying a home if your income isn't stable
A steady income helps you get a more accurate idea of how much home you can afford.

09/19/2024

Diddy Combs mansion on the market

This 17000 square feet Single Family home has 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms. It is located at 200 S Mapleton Dr, Los Angeles, CA.

08/28/2024

New listing in Arlington! Call me if yo would like to view this!

ML # 6593360 – Solid 1 1/2 story home with a block foundation installed in the 80's with an over sized 2 stall 26x30 detached garage (built about 5 years ago) with a concrete pad and sidewalk to the...

07/24/2024

Thinking About A Lake Home?
Minnesota has well over 10,000 lakes so make that dream come true!
Here are a few to consider:
* Lake Minnetonka
This lake meets suburban sophistication. It has access to many different cities.
* White Bear Lake
The surrounding cities of this lake have much to offer in terms of recreation, shopping and dining.
* Forest Lake
This lake is know for some of the best fishing in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Forest Lake also has many recreational options.
*Lake Superior
Known for being the 2nd largest lake in the world, the views are unparalleled.
* Gull Lake
Located in the heart of Minnesota. Within miles of Brainerd and home to the best golf courses in the state.

Call now to connect with business.