Life and Liberty Real Estate - Lance Lindstrom Broker/Owner

09/24/2026

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is assuming every improvement requires a full‑scale remodel.Simple smart home features like programmable thermostats, video doorbells, smart locks, security cameras, and energy-efficient lighting can modernize your home and improve everyday living. Many buyers appreciate these features because they add convenience, security, and potential energy savings without a huge investment. If you're considering upgrades before selling, or simply want to increase your home's functionality, focus on improvements that offer broad appeal rather than expensive gadgets with limited value. Wondering which upgrades make the most sense for your home and your market? I'd be happy to help you prioritize projects that provide the greatest benefit today and the best return when it's time to sell.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/24/What-Smart-Home-Upgrades-Are-Worth-It

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

09/23/2026

Most people think the biggest tax benefits of homeownership are deducting mortgage interest and property taxes, but with nearly 90% of taxpayers now taking the standard deduction, some of the most powerful advantages may actually come later through capital gains exclusions when selling and stepped-up basis rules when property is inherited. Homeownership can be about much more than monthly payments; it can also play an important role in long-term wealth building and family planning.

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

While many homeowners focus on mortgage interest deductions, two of the most valuable and overlooked tax benefits may actually be the capital gains exclusion and stepped-up basis for inherited property.

09/22/2026

One of the biggest mistakes I see sellers make is assuming buyers will overlook little things. In reality, small details often shape a buyer's first impression and influence how they perceive the home's overall value. The good news is that many of the most effective improvements are simple and affordable. If you're thinking about selling, I'd be happy to recommend which updates are worth doing and which ones you can skip, so you can make the best first impression possible. Reach out anytime for a no-obligation consultation.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/22/Small-Improvements-Can-Create-Big-Perception-Shifts-with-Buyers

09/21/2026

Life changes, but our homes don't always change with us. Maybe you need more space or less. Maybe the stairs are becoming a challenge, the commute is wearing you down, or your lifestyle has shifted in ways your home no longer supports. You don't have to feel "stuck"; exploring your options doesn't mean you're committing to a move. It simply gives you clarity.If you're starting to feel like your current home no longer fits your life, reach out. I can walk you through your choices, estimate your equity, and help you plan your next step, whether that's now or years from now.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/21/How-much-longer-are-you-willing-to-stay

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

09/18/2026

The face of first-time homebuyers has changed dramatically according to the NAR 2025 Profile of Buyers & Sellers. In 1985, married couples made up a whopping 75% of first-time buyers, and today, it's just 50%. Meanwhile, single women have surged from 11% to 25%, and unmarried couples have nearly tripled from 4% to 11%. The American Dream is evolving; are you ready to claim your piece of it? Don't wait for trends to pass you by...start your journey today!

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/18/Rewriting-the-Rules-of-Homeownership

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

09/17/2026

While insurance carriers in storm‑heavy areas (Midwest, South, Plains) were the first to adopt higher or percentage-based wind and hail deductibles, multiple sources show the trend started regionally and is now entrenched across the U.S. continuing to expand as severe weather spreads to new areas.This option lowers premiums but the insured will be out of pocket more if a loss occurs.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/17/Increasing-Deductibles-Can-Lower-Insurance

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

09/16/2026

Not all second homes are treated the same. Whether a property is used primarily for personal enjoyment, short-term vacation use, or as a rental investment can affect financing options, tax treatment, and deductible expenses. Understanding those differences before buying can help homeowners make smarter long-term decisions. If you'd like to explore your options, I'd be happy to help.

At Life and Liberty Real Estate, we are bringing home the American Dream!
(763) 234-7629 [email protected]

The way a second property is used, personal enjoyment, limited vacation use, or rental income, can significantly affect financing, taxes, and long-term investment benefits.

09/15/2026

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that market value and assessed value are not the same thing. Market value is what a buyer may be willing to pay based on current demand, recent sales, condition, location, and competition. Assessed value is used by the local taxing authority to help calculate property taxes and may follow different rules, timelines, exemptions, or limits. That is why your tax assessment may be higher or lower than what your home could actually sell for. If you are wondering what your home may be worth in today's market, contact me. I can help you look at the real estate side of the numbers.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LanceLindstrom/2026/09/15/Market-Value-vs-Assessed-Value-What-s-the-Difference

09/14/2026

August real estate sales numbers are in! The total home sales closed in August was down about ten percent compared to August of 2025 in our area! It's about five percent lower compared to the previous month of July. After a slow start this spring, June made up for the two previous months. In fact, the total sales for the second quarter in 2026 is nearly identical to the same period in 2025. In August, the price per square foot is on average up slightly year over year, as well as the median sales price, with the average price about the same compared with August of 2025. Prices had been trending upward for several years, but based on numbers since mid 2025, the upward trend has slowed but has not tilted downward. When listing a house for sale right now, don't assume a year over year increase with comparable homes that sold when determining the list (asking) price, but base it similarly while adjusting it according to what is currently available and selling. Wait until October 1st and we will see if the upward momentum in sales continues into August or tilts flatter. For more specific information, I'm here as your resource to get the information you need and would be delighted to represent you in either buying or selling! Just reach out with questions or if you want to know what your house or property is worth. I am looking forward to hearing from you to help you achieve your housing goals.