Val Bushaw, Exp Lakes Area Realtor

09/16/2026

I'll be honest, the market can change fast and it's NOT always a good time to buy or sell for a lot of folks. But there are 5 reasons people will still move this year, even with high interest rates and low inventory:

1. Job Change. Let's be real, the economy doesn't care if you have the home of your dreams locked in at a 3% interest rate. If work changes, you have to make a change, too. Sometimes, folks decide to rent their homes out because their mortgage rate is so low, but most of the time, people need the equity in their current home to buy the next one.

2. Wedding Bells. Starting a new life together means living together, too! In some cases, this means first-time buyers looking to purchase a home. But if both are already homeowners, a marriage means one person needs to sell their home, since they'll move in together.

3. Babies. See #2. It doesn't matter if the economy is "good" or "bad," people still have babies. And a crib in your bedroom is fine, but when that baby starts to grow, you'll need more space.

4. Divorce. When a couple separates, it often involves figuring out who gets to keep the home and who moves out. Or sometimes, the best course of action is to sell and split the money.

5. Death. When a loved one passes, the family can face big decisions if a home is involved. Especially when it comes to estates, it's important to have an experienced agent to guide the process and know the best options.

Now, even in a tough market like this, some people will absolutely just move because they want to… not because they have to.

But for the average person in the Lakes area, a move is happening now because of one of the reasons I listed.

At the end of the day, it doesn't matter what the economy is like, or whether it's a seller's or buyer's market.

Life happens, and you'll need to move.

So, if you have any questions, or know anyone who might, feel free to pass along my info to them. I'm happy to help.

- Val
(218) 863-6200

09/10/2026

Within walking distance of the schools, this home sits on a large corner lot with a white picket fence and a welcoming front porch.
- 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
- Original wood floors and woodwork
- Additional bathroom and second laundry area
- Central air, high-efficiency furnace, and newer electrical
- Attached two-stall garage
- And much more

This home is priced at $269,900.

📍 322 3rd Avenue SE, Pelican Rapids

- Val
(218) 863-6200

09/08/2026

Bring your building plans and imagine the possibilities of a fresh start on Pelican Lake!
- Level lot with a great beach
- Separate back lot
- Existing garage and storage shed
- Located along a quiet, private road
- 0.35 acres
- And much more

📍20619 Summer Haven Rd, Pelican Rapids

- Val
(218) 863-6200

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

This home offers amazing panoramic views, with 235 feet of shoreline and 1.16 acres of land at the end of a quiet road.
- 4 bedrooms | 5.5 bathrooms
- Large eat-in kitchen
- Private lower-level guest suite
- Three-stall detached garage
- Two lakeside decks
- And much more!

📍 39282 Moonlight Bay Trail, Pelican Rapids

- Val
(218) 863-6200

08/24/2026

I believe things have a way of working out when you give them your best.
I believe hard work still matters.

I believe what you plant in the spring, you’ll harvest in the fall.
I believe in making time for Grandmas and Grandpas.

I believe in local coffee shops where they still know your name.
I believe in small-town businesses where neighbors support neighbors.

I believe strong communities are built when their roots run deep.
I believe our character is shaped by the company we keep.

I believe in old-fashioned values that never truly go out of style.
I believe in greeting a stranger with a handshake and a smile.

I believe we’re blessed to live where others come to vacation.
Where kids jump off the dock until the sun goes down.

Where memories are made without a phone in sight.
Where stories are shared around the fire late into the night.
Where the one that got away somehow grows bigger every year.

I believe in quiet mornings on the water and sunsets that make us stop and stare.
I believe our small towns are still the best places for big dreams.

I believe family and friends are worth more than anything money can buy.
I believe we’re lucky to call this little piece of heaven home.

And that’s why…

I believe in Minnesota Lakes Country 💙

- Val

08/17/2026

If you’re traveling through the Lakes Area, Berdal’s Cafe is definitely worth the stop! Located right off Highway 10 in Lake Park, it’s the perfect place to grab a little something whether you’re headed toward Fargo, heading up to the lake, or just looking for a delicious local favorite.

From hot and iced coffee to homemade caramel and cinnamon rolls, whole pies and slices of pie, plus a great selection of lunch options, there’s something for everyone! 🥧

And I have to say… hands down, the best caramel roll I’ve ever had! 🤤

Next time you’re passing through Lake Park, skip the drive-thru and stop in at Berdal’s Cafe. Support local, grab a bite, and treat yourself to something sweet!

📍 Berdal’s Cafe | Lake Park, MN
Coffee • Pies • Lunch • Caramel Rolls

- Val

08/04/2026

383 feet of shoreline and almost six private acres on Leek Lake! This one truly has room for your entire family!
- 5 bedrooms, 4 baths
- Kitchen with granite countertops
- Oversized 4+ stall garage
- Peaceful lake views from the upper and lower decks
- And much more

📍49618 Leek Lake Drive, Vergas

- Val
(218) 863-6200

07/26/2026

What's a business you would love to see open in the Lakes Area? Franchise or not, what's one you think our area would benefit having?