ForbesWoman just announced their list of the top 20 cities for working mothers. Minneapolis-St. Paul was named #1. The Twin Cities beat out Washington, D.C., Boston, and Philadelphia for the top spot.
To determine the list Forbes looked at women’s earnings, unemployment rates, crime levels, health care, school systems, and cost of living. They then used this information to determine the best quality of live for juggling career and family. For the first time a greater emphasis was placed on earnings which they believe to be a greater factor for women in determining where to live.
Two of the biggest factors that put the Twin Cities in the top spot were the rates for unemployment and crime. At 6.4%, we have the second-lowest unemployment rate. Minneapolis-St. Paul also has the violent crime rate of any other major US city. There are only 216 crimes per 100,000 people annually.
If you live in the Twin Cities, this is great news! If you were considering a move now there’s an even greater incentive!
For more information on how the top 20 were picked, click here. To see the entire list, click here.
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Curb appeal is a very important element of homeownership. It can make or break the first impression of the home. It can impact value. And if you’re trying to sell your home, it can determine how fast your home sells.
Here are 6 tips for adding curb appeal to your home:
1. Have the home washed or painted. A professional power washing or do-it-yourself one can brighten the home with just water. It will also remove unsightly items like cobwebs. For stucco or wood sided homes, painting may be the only option for cleaning up the home.
2. Trim the shrubs and green up the lawn. Make sure to fertilize, add grass seed when necessary, and keep landscaping tidy.
3. Add a splash of color. You can do this with a flower bed, a new front door, or colorful lawn furniture.
4. Update your mailbox and house numbers. A new address plaque or an upscale mailbox is an easy way to modernize without spending a lot.
5. Repair or clean the roof. The roof is one the first things that guests or buyers notice. Make sure it is in good condition and clear of moss or stains. Due to the danger involved, it may be a good idea to hire a professional to do the job.
6. Perform routine maintenance and cleaning. Things like hanging or clogged gutters and missing bricks detract from the overall look of the home. They’re also red flags for other deferred maintenance.
~Information from HouseLogic.com and Pat Curry~
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The Minneapolis Association of REALTORS released The Monthly Skinny for July 2010. Watch and learn about the latest real estate market news of the Twin Cities.
The Monthly Skinny July 2010
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For many reasons, more and more homeowners are looking to downsize with their next home. Here are 5 steps for preparing for your next home.
1. Consider all your options. Think about townhomes, condos, and single family homes.
2. Talk to a mortgage professional. Find out where your credit score is, what you can afford, and what you’ll need for a down payment. Things most likely have changed since you last purchased a home.
3. Update your home wish list. Downsizing doesn’t mean giving up what you want and need, it just means prioritizing those needs and wants. You may find no yard work is more important than square footage.
4. Target your home search. Decide where you want to live based on your interests, closeness to work, and proximity to family and friends. Maybe you simply want to try out something new!
5. Find a real estate agent. Pick a knowledgeable agent who personality and style matches your own.
~Info from FrontDoor.com~
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ForbesWoman just announced their list of the top 20 cities for working mothers. Minneapolis-St. Paul was named #1. The Twin Cities beat out Washington, D.C., Boston, and Philadelphia for the top spot.
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