9 things homebuyers desire in 2011

By Dana Dratch of Bankrate.com

Searching for value

Today's homebuyers want it all.

Items on their shopping list include a home in great condition with rooms that can do double duty. Areas that mingle indoor and outdoor living - patios, porches, decks and outdoor rooms - are always a plus. So are features that offer a little luxury, such as garden tubs, first-rate appliances and high-dollar countertops.

They're also going back to basics and searching for solid, well-maintained properties that will give them their money's worth.

"I think this year, they're buying properties that are in good mechanical condition that have inherent value," says Ron Phipps, president of the National Association of Realtors.

But more than anything, buyers want to drive a hard bargain.

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Featured Listing

17592 Lenox Circle, Eden Prairie - $464,900

Absolutely fabulous updated two story walkout! Spectacular lower level finished 2009 with slate & granite wet bar, amusement room with gas fireplace and built-ins, charming 3/4 Bath, a sizeable bedroom and a hobby/storage room. Gorgeous granite & stainless steel appliances in the kitchen May 2011. Huge main floor family room. Main floor bedroom and 3/4 bath. Mud room/laundry room features cubbies, ample cabinetry & ceramic flooring. Three bedrooms upper level plus two baths with beautiful new ceramic tiled floors. Exceptional views of natural pond setting and wooded area. Just steps to the Regional biking/walking trail! Award winning Cedar Ridge Elementary School and a terrific Eden Prairie location make this delightful home a must see! Schedule your appointment today!

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Foreclosure Rates Drop In Minnesota

Foreclosures across the country fell to a 40-month low according to a report recently released by RealtyTrac, an online marketplace for foreclosure properties. Minnesota like many other states across the country also saw a decrease with foreclosures dropping 20.5 percent in March when compared to the same time the previous year. This was the largest drop seen in the country. The month of April also brought a 19 percent drop in foreclosures in Minnesota when comparing it the same time period in 2010. 

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