Monday, February 8, 2021

Repost from Attom.com - Home Prices set new records!

 

U.S. Home Seller Profits Soar in 2020 as Prices Set New Records in Spite of Coronavirus Pandemic

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Profits on Home Sales Increase in Nine of Every 10 Housing Markets in 2020; National Median Home Price Up 13 Percent From Last Year to $266,250; Homeowners Now Staying In Their Homes More Than Eight Years Before Selling

IRVINE, Calif. – Jan. 28, 2021 — ATTOM Data Solutions, curator of the nation’s premier property database, today released its Year-End 2020 U.S. Home Sales Report, which shows that home sellers nationwide in 2020 realized a home-price gain of $68,843 on the typical sale, up from $53,700 in 2019 and $48,500 two years ago. Profits rose in more than 90 percent of housing markets with enough data to analyze and the latest figure, based on median purchase and resale prices, marked the highest level in the United States since at least 2005.

The $68,843 profit on median priced single-family homes and condos represented a 34.7 percent return on investment compared to the original purchase price, up from 29.4 percent last year and 27.2 percent in 2018, to the highest average home-seller return on investment since 2006.

Both raw profits and ROI have improved nationwide for nine straight years. And last year’s gain in ROI – up more than five percentage points – marked the largest annual increase since 2017. Profits shot up as the national median home price rose 12.8 percent in 2020 to $266,250 – a record high.

The combination of rising profits and record prices came during a year when the national housing market fended off damage that afflicted wide swaths of the U.S. economy after the Coronavirus pandemic of 2020 began spreading across the country in February. Unemployment rose to levels not seen since the Great Depression as millions of businesses temporarily or permanently closed or cut back. But a housing market boom that began in 2012 continued into its ninth year as a spate of buyers relatively unaffected financially by the pandemic – including a cluster looking to escape virus-prone urban areas – chased a declining supply of houses and pushed prices ever higher.

“Last year marked a unique year in the history of home prices and profits in the United States. A once-in-a-century health crisis tore through much of the nation’s economy but seemed to have the opposite effect on the housing market,” said Todd Teta, chief product officer at ATTOM Data Solutions. “Demand remained strong as people who could afford the space and relative safety of single-family homes did just that, aided by super-low mortgage rates and a strong stock market. But they went after a narrowing supply of housing stock, so prices soared and so did seller profits. While it’s unclear how long that will last, in the annals of history, there will be few years recorded as better for sellers and more challenging for buyers.”

Among 132 metropolitan statistical areas with a population greater than 200,000 and sufficient sales data, those in western states continued to reap the highest returns on investment, with concentrations on or near the West Coast. The top 10 metro areas with the highest ROIs on typical home sales were all in the West, led by in San Jose, CA (87.3 percent return on investments); Seattle, WA (72.1 percent); Salem, OR (69.6 percent); Spokane, WA (69.2 percent) and San Francisco, CA (68.2 percent).

Seller Gains Chart - 2020

Prices rise at least 10 percent in more than half the country as most markets hit new highs

The U.S. median home price increased 12.8 percent in 2020, hitting an all-time annual high of $266,250. The annual home-price appreciation in 2020 outpaced the combined increases of 4.4 percent in 2019 and the 4.8 percent increase in 2018. The increase in 2020 topped all annual gains since at least 2006 in the United States.

Since the U.S. housing market began recovering in 2012 from the Great Recession of the late 2000s, the national median home price has risen 72.3 percent.

All 132 metropolitan statistical areas with a population of 200,000 or more and sufficient home price data saw median prices increase in 2020, while 69 saw prices spike at least 10 percent. Those with the biggest year-over-year increases in median home prices were Bridgeport, CT (up 21.4 percent); Myrtle Beach, SC (up 20.5 percent); Crestview-Fort Walton Beach, FL (up 19.6 percent); Boise, ID (up 18.7 percent) and Hilton Head, SC (up 18.3 percent).

The largest median-price increases in metro areas with a population of at least 1 million in 2020 came in Milwaukee, WI (up 15.3 percent); Memphis, TN (up 15.1 percent); Phoenix, AZ (up 14.9 percent); Birmingham, AL (up 13.7 percent) and Seattle, WA (up 12.9 percent).

Home prices in 2020 reached new peaks in 129 of the 132 metros (97 percent) analyzed, including New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX and Houston, TX.

The smallest gains among the 132 metro areas were in Worcester, MA (up 1.9 percent); Harrisburg, PA (up 2 percent); Pittsburgh, PA (up 3.3 percent); Boston, MA (up 3.5 percent) and Daphne-Fairhope, AL (up 4.1 percent).

Profit margins increase in more than 90 percent of nation

Profit margins on typical home sales rose in 121 of the 132 metro areas with sufficient data to analyze in 2020 (92 percent).

The largest annual increases in investment returns came in Mobile, AL (margin up 181.1 percent); Augusta, GA (up 112.8 percent); Huntsville, AL (up 84.4 percent); Davenport, IA (up 75.6 percent) and New Haven, CT (up 73.4 percent).

Among metro areas with a population of at least 1 million in 2020, the largest annual ROI increases were in Birmingham, AL (up 71.5 percent); Hartford, CT (up 56.9 percent); Cleveland, OH (up 52.2 percent); Rochester, NY (up 49.9 percent) and St. Louis, MO (up 45.7 percent).

The biggest annual decreases in investment returns in 2020 came in Honolulu, HI (down 11.8 percent); Greeley, CO (down 8.9 percent); Miami, FL (down 7.7 percent); Cape Coral, FL (down 7.4 percent) and San Francisco, CA (down 5.7 percent).

Aside from Miami and San Francisco, the only metro areas with a population of at least 1 million and declining profit margins in 2020 were Pittsburgh, PA (down 4.1 percent); Denver, CO (down 3.3 percent) and Dallas, TX (down 0.9 percent).

Homeownership tenure hits another record nationwide

Homeowners who sold in the fourth quarter of 2020 had owned their homes an average of 8.33 years, up from 7.98 years in the previous quarter and 7.96 years in the fourth quarter of 2019. The latest figure represented the longest average home-seller tenure since at least the first quarter of 2000, the earliest period of available data. Tenures were up, year over year, in 73, or 68 percent, of the 107 metro areas with a population of at least 200,000 and sufficient historical data.

As in the third quarter of 2020, the top tenures for home sellers in the fourth quarter of 2020 were all in Connecticut: Bridgeport, CT (13.15 years); Norwich, CT (12.98 years); Torrington, CT (12.83 years); New Haven, CT (12.47 years) and Hartford, CT (12.23 years).

Avg Homeownership Tenure Chart - 2020

Counter to the national trend, 34 of the 107 metro areas (32 percent) posted a year-over-year decrease in average home-seller tenure, led by Madera, CA (down 10 percent); Champaign, IL (down 9 percent); Salem, OR (down 9 percent); Boston, MA (down 8 percent) and Cincinnati, OH (down 8 percent.

Cash sales at 13-year low in 2020

Nationwide, all-cash purchases accounted for 23.5 percent of single-family home and condo sales in 2020, the lowest level since 2007. The latest figure was down from 25.2 percent in 2019 and 27 percent in 2018, and was well off the 38.4 percent peaks in 2011 and 2012.

Among metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000 and sufficient cash-sales data, those where cash sales represented the largest share of all transactions in 2020 were the same as in 2019: Macon, GA (48.7 percent of sales); Naples, FL (47.2 percent); Chico, CA (46 percent); Fort Smith, AR (43 percent) and Montgomery, AL (41.8 percent).

U.S. distressed sales share at 15-year low

Distressed home sales — including bank-owned (REO) sales, third-party foreclosure auction sales and short sales — accounted for 7.8 percent of all U.S. single-family home and condo sales in 2020, down from 11.1 percent in 2019 and 12.4 percent in 2018. The latest figure was less than one-quarter of the peak of 38.6 percent in 2011 and marked the lowest point since 2005.

States where distressed sales comprised the largest portion of total sales in 2020 were Connecticut (15.3 percent of sales), Rhode Island (14.7 percent), Delaware (13.8 percent), Illinois (12.6 percent) and Maryland (12.6 percent). Those with the lowest were Utah (2.1 percent), Maine (2.2 percent), Idaho (2.6 percent), Montana (3.2 percent) and Mississippi (3.5 percent).

Among 196 metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000 and with sufficient data, those where distressed sales represented the largest portion of all sales in 2020 were Chico, CA (18 percent of sales); Atlantic City, NJ (17.6 percent); Peoria, IL (16.8 percent); New Haven, CT (16.2 percent) and Norwich, CT (16.2 percent).

Those with the smallest shares were Provo, UT (1.8 percent of sales); Salt Lake City, UT (1.9 percent); Ogden, UT (2.1 percent); Savannah, GA (2.3 percent) and San Jose, CA (2.9 percent).

Among 53 metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 1 million, those with the highest levels of distressed sales in 2020 were Hartford, CT (15.5 percent of sales); Providence, RI (14.9 percent); Baltimore, MD (13.9 percent); Cleveland, OH (13.5 percent) and Chicago, IL (12.2 percent).

Aside from San Jose and Salt Lake City, metro areas with at least 1 million people that had the lowest shares were Austin, TX (3.1 percent of sales); San Francisco, CA (3.6 percent) and Seattle, WA (3.8 percent).

Distressed Sales Chart - 2020

Institutional investing at lowest level this century

Institutional investors nationwide accounted for 2.2 percent of all single-family home and condo sales in 2020 – the lowest level since at least 2000. The latest figure was down from 3.2 percent in 2019 and 3 percent in 2018.

Among metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000 and sufficient institutional-investor sales data, those with the highest levels of institutional-investor transactions in 2020 were Memphis, TN (7 percent of sales); Atlanta, GA (6.8 percent); Laredo, TX (6.2 percent); Fort Wayne, IN (6.2 percent) and Montgomery, AL (6.1 percent).

Home Sales by Type Chart - 2020

FHA sales remain low as portion of all transactions

Nationwide, buyers using Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans accounted for 11.9 percent of all single-family home and condo purchases in 2020, down from 12 percent in 2019 but up from 10.6 percent in 2018. Still, the 2020 percentage marked the second-lowest annual level since 2008.

Among metropolitan statistical areas with a population of at least 200,000 and sufficient FHA-buyer data in 2020, those with the highest share of purchases made with FHA loans again were in Texas. They were led by McAllen, TX (31.5 percent of sales); El Paso, TX (26.6 percent); Beaumont, TX (26.6 percent); Amarillo, TX (24.9 percent); and Visalia, CA (24.7 percent).

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Report methodology

The ATTOM Data Solutions U.S. Home Sales Report provides percentages of distressed sales and all sales that are sold to investors, institutional investors and cash buyers, a state and metropolitan statistical area. Data is also available at the county and zip code level upon request. The data is derived from recorded sales deeds, foreclosure filings and loan data. Statistics for previous quarters are revised when each new report is issued as more deed data becomes available.

Definitions

All-cash purchase: sale where no loan is recorded at the time of sale and where ATTOM has coverage of loan data.

Homeownership tenure: for a given market and given quarter, the average time between the most recent sale date and the previous sale date, expressed in years.

Home seller price gains: the difference between the median sales price of homes in a given market in a given quarter and the median sales price of the previous sale of those same homes, expressed both in a dollar amount and as a percentage of the previous median sales price.

Institutional investor purchases: residential property sales to non-lending entities that purchased at least 10 properties in a calendar year.

REO sale: a sale of a property that occurs while the property is actively bank owned (REO).

Short sale: a sale of a property where the sale price is less than (short) the combined amount of loans secured by the property.

Third-party foreclosure auction sale: a sale of a property that occurs at the public foreclosure auction (trustee’s sale or sheriff’s sale) in which the property is sold to a third-party buyer and does not transfer back to the foreclosing bank.

About ATTOM Data Solutions

ATTOM Data Solutions provides premium property data to power products that improve transparency, innovation, efficiency and disruption in a data-driven economy. ATTOM multi-sources property tax, deed, mortgage, foreclosure, environmental risk, natural hazard, and neighborhood data for more than 155 million U.S. residential and commercial properties covering 99 percent of the nation’s population. A rigorous data management process involving more than 20 steps validates, standardizes and enhances the data collected by ATTOM, assigning each property record with a persistent, unique ID — the ATTOM ID. The 20TB ATTOM Data Warehouse fuels innovation in many industries including mortgage, real estate, insurance, marketing, government and more through flexible data delivery solutions that include bulk file licensesproperty data APIsreal estate market trendsmarketing listsmatch & append and introducing the first property data delivery solution, a cloud-based data platform that streamlines data management – Data-as-a-Service (DaaS).

Media Contact:

Christine Stricker

949.748.8428

christine.stricker@attomdata.com

Data and Report Licensing:

949.502.8313

datareports@attomdata.com

Please contact us if you have questions about the underlying data referenced in this article, or would like to have access to that data in the form of custom reports, API, Bulk File or DaaS.


Monday, December 21, 2020

 
 
 
NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE
 
 
 

November Housing Starts rose 1.2%, to a 1.547 million annual rate, with single-family starts up 27.1% from a year ago. Building Permits did even better, up 6.2% to a 1.639 annual rate, with single-family permits up 22.2% from a year ago.

Up seven straight months, single-family construction hit its highest level since 2007, 14.7% over its pre-pandemic high, more than a full V-shaped recovery. December builder confidence came in just off its November record high. 

Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist reports “...purchase demand shows no real signs of waning at all heading into next year.” Purchase mortgage applications in fact rose for the fourth time in the last five weeks.

 
 
 
 
REVIEW OF LAST WEEK
 
 
 

OPTIMISM WINS... Investors felt good about the rollout of the first coronavirus vaccine, not so good about signs of a slowing economy. But upbeat feelings won out and stocks forged ahead.

Retail Sales dipped in November (yet are still in a V-shaped recovery, up from their pre-pandemic peak). Weekly jobless claims also rose. Both negatives were put to the shutdowns in response to more coronavirus cases.

But Congress appears closer to passing a stimulus deal, the Fed met and said it would keep backing the recovery with low rates and heavy bond buying, and the Leading Economic Index (LEI) was up seven months in a row.

The week ended with the Dow UP 0.4%, to 30,179; the S&P 500 UP 1.3%, to 3,709; and the Nasdaq UP 3.1%, to 12,756.

The net positive feelings dipped bond prices overall, though the UMBS 3.0% went up .22, to $104.77. Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey saw the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fall to another record low. Remember, mortgage rates can be extremely volatile, so check with your mortgage professional for up-to-the-minute information.

DID YOU KNOW?... Poinsettias were introduced to America in 1828 by U.S. ambassador to Mexico Joel Poinsett. They’re now grown in all 50 states and represent more than 85% of potted plant sales during the holiday season.

 
 
 
 
THIS WEEK'S FORECAST
 
 
 

HOME SALES HOLD, ECONOMY TOO… Forecasts call for November Existing Home Sales to stay near October's strong 6.8-million-unit annual rate and for New Home Sales to remain just under a million units. Personal Income and Spendingare expected off a tick, PCE Prices up a tick, and Consumer Confidence high.

Thursday, Christmas Eve, stock markets will close at 1 p.m., bond markets at 2, and all financial markets will be closed Friday, Christmas Day. Happy Holidays to all!

NOTE: Weaker economic data tends to send bond prices up and interest rates down, while positive data points to lower bond prices and higher loan rates.

 
 
 

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Understanding Agency Relationships - Saint Paul Area Association of REAL...

Material Facts Disclosure - Saint Paul Area Association of REALTORS

 
HOME BUYING
 
Home Buying
 
UPCOMING TRENDS IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET
 
 
 

Home as Sanctuary The pandemic has made home the safe place to be for all pursuits. People want homes that can accommodate one or more offices, learning centers, playrooms, gyms, a comfortable place to watch movies, pools, and other outdoor amenities. We’re spending more time at home and experts say we’ll continue to do so even after the public health crisis passes. Many will ditch their commutes and keep working from home, full or part time; some will continue to limit the time they spend out in public. 

Less Density, Convenient Proximity People who no longer need to be close to work are giving up the density of urban living. They’re looking for single family homes with space, but still want proximity to stores, restaurants, and entertainment. People are also putting a higher value on being near close family—a car ride away.

 
 
 
HOME SELLING
 
Home Selling
 
HOME FEATURES MILLENNIALS LOVE
 
 
 

Millennials, age 24 to 39, have long been seen as the affluents of tomorrow. But guess what? Tomorrow is here, as many millennials are now in their mid- to late-thirties and financially well off. Those entering the real estate market for the first time can often afford more than starter homes. Those who own homes are poised for their second or third purchases. America’s largest demographic cohort is quite consistent about home buying preferences. Here are the top features most millennials like in a listing.

 
 
 
PRODUCTIVITY
 
Productivity
 
WHY COMMUNICATION SKILLS MATTER AND 7 TIPS TO IMPROVE THEM
 
 
 

Communication skills are vital to your success in three important ways:

  • Communication skills are key to working more efficiently—and therefore more productively—with co-workers and partners
  • Communication skills are vital to growing your business by persuading prospects to become clients
  • Communication skills are key to doing the best job possible satisfying those clients, so they refer you to others and hire you again themselves, to grow your business even more
 
 
 
TECHNOLOGY
 
Technology
 
FREE SOCIAL MEDIA TRAINING COURSES
 
 
 

A social media presence can be important in business. Here are nine free online programs to explore social media and bring your capabilities to the next level.

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Local Resources

Take a look at some of the great things Prior Lake and Burnsville have to offer. These resources are designed to help you move and get settled, and to acquaint you with the area after your move.

Do you know of a resource that would be perfect for this page? Suggest it here.
Real Estate Services
Trademark Title - With Trademark Title, You can work with the experienced closer, Jackie Frechette, who I have been working with the last 15 years! And you can order title online!

Tax Information
First-time homeowners - Publication 530 (2007), Tax Information for First-Time Homeowners 
Homeowner deductions information - Frequently Asked Tax Questions And Answers
How to report moving expenses - Publication 521 (2007), Moving Expenses 
Selling your home - Sale of Your Home, IRS TAX TIP 2008-54
Relocation Links

US State Departments of Education - see the list of all 50 states
Official City Websites - find area info websites across the world!

USPS' Movers Guide - help for planning and executing your move
Area Information

Burnsville Information - research local area info, stats, and events
Anoka County - County Information
Blue Earth County - County Information
Carver County - County Information
Dakota County - County Information
Goodhue County - County Information
Hennepin County - County Information
Le Sueur County - County Information
Ramsey County - County Information
Rice County - County Information
Scott County - County Information 
Washington County - County Information
Wright County - County Information
State of Minnesota Websites
Minnesota Attorney General - The Minnesota Attorney General's Office answers questions and takes complaints on a variety of consumer concerns.
Minnesota Department of Commerce - Our mission is to ensure equitable commercial and financial transactions and reliable utility services, investigating and resolving consumer complaints, advocating the public's interest before the Public Utilities Commission, and administering various state programs. 
Minnesota Department of Corrections - Our mission is: To hold offenders accountable and offer opportunities for change while restoring justice for victims and contributing to a safer Minnesota. 
Minnesota Department of Economic Security - Minnesota WorkForce Centers (WFCs) provide the tools, resources and services needed for job search, career planning and training needs.
Minnesota Department of Employee Relations - Making a positive impact on state managers and employees, for the benefit of all Minnesotans
Minnesota Department of Finance - The mission of the Department of Finance is to ensure the integrity and sound use of the state's fiscal resources.
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry - The department's mission is to ensure Minnesota's work and living environments are equitable, healthy and safe.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Our mission is to work with citizens to conserve and manage the state's natural resources, to provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and to provide for commercial uses of natural resources in a way that creates a sustainable quality of life.
Minnesota Department of Public Safety - The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is committed to protecting citizens and communities through activities that promote and support prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, education, and enforcement.
Minnesota Department of Revenue - The Minnesota Department of Revenue manages the state's revenue system. We administer 28 different taxes, collecting over $12 billion annually. This money funds education, local government aid, property tax relief, social service programs, highways, and other state programs and operations.
Minnesota Department of Transportation - Helping Minnesotans travel safer, smarter and more efficiently
Minnesota Governors Office - Governor Tim Pawlenty 
Minnesota Secretary of State - Welcome to the Minnesota Secretary of State website. We hope you will find it to be a useful and informative resource. 
Minnesota Tourism Office - Explore Minnesota's many destinations North, South, East, and West.
Official Minnesota Website - Find everything you need to know about the state of Minnesota
Schools
School Information - free school profiles
State dept. of education - school reports, statistics, demographics....
State Colleges and Universities
Bemidji State University - Public, founded in 1919 with a current enrollment of over 5,000 students from 44 states and 40 foreign countries
Metro State University - Metropolitan State University is a comprehensive urban university committed to meeting the higher education needs of the Twin Cities and greater metropolitan population
Minnesota State University - Mankato - Minnesota State University, Mankato promotes learning through effective undergraduate and graduate teaching, scholarship, and research in service to the state, the region and the global community
Minnesota State University - Marshall - The mission of Southwest Minnesota State University is to provide high quality liberal arts, professional, and technical programs at the undergraduate and graduate level
Minnesota State University - Moorhead - The mission of Minnesota State University Moorhead is to foster excellence in teaching and learning. We develop knowledge, talent, and skills for a lifetime of learning, service, and citizenship
Saint Cloud State University - St. Cloud State University is committed to excellence in teaching, learning, and service, fostering scholarship and enhancing collaborative relationships in a global community
University of Minnesota - Crookstone - At the University of Minnesota, Crookston, you have access to affordable, U of M degrees in a private campus setting where faculty and staff know your name and invest in your success
University of Minnesota - Duluth - UMD serves northern Minnesota, the state, and the nation as a medium-sized comprehensive university dedicated to excellence in all its programs and operations
University of Minnesota - Morris - As one of five campuses of the University of Minnesota, the University of Minnesota, Morris (UMM) offers the best of both in the world of higher education,a small, close-knit campus complemented by the power of a world-renowned research University system
University of Minnesota - Rochester - The University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR), through a partnership with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, extends upper division undergraduate and post-baccalaureate degree programs to people in southeastern Minnesota
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities - The University of Minnesota has been a statewide resource that makes a significant impact on the economy, society, and culture of Minnesota. Through its land grant mission teaching and learning, research and discovery, public engagement it has been dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving as the partner for the public good
Winona State University - Provide high quality undergraduate and graduate programs that respond to economic, environmental and social challenges, and that serve as a durable foundation for the acquisition of the knowledge, skills, habits and capabilities of a well educated person
Private Colleges and Universities
Alfred Aldler Graduate School - The Mission of the Adler Graduate School is to provide Adlerian and non-Adlerian instruction to train professional counselors and therapists to be practitioners 
Augsburg College - To nurture future leaders in service to the world by providing high quality educational opportunities, which are based in the liberal arts and shaped by the faith and values of the Christian church
Bethany Lutheran College - Bethany Lutheran College, owned and operated by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod, is a private, residential, liberal arts college committed to the teachings of the Bible as set forth in the Lutheran Confessions
Bethel University - Bethel University provides exceptional Christian higher education by integrating a broad choice of strong academic programs with a vital spiritual life and purpose
Capella University - The mission of Capella University is to extend access to high quality degree programs for adults who seek to maximize their personal and professional potential
Carleton College - Carleton College is an independent and highly selective liberal arts college with a diverse and exceptionally able student body, a talented faculty whose first priority is teaching, and a continued commitment to the liberal arts
College of Saint Benedict - The mission of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University is to provide the very best residential liberal arts education in the Catholic university tradition
College of Saint Catherine - The College of St. Catherine educates women to lead and influence. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in 1905, the College integrates liberal arts and professional education within the Catholic traditions 
College of Saint Scholastica - Shaped by the Catholic Benedictine heritage, The College of St. Scholastica provides intellectual and moral preparation for responsible living and meaningful work
College of Visual Arts - Programming at the College of Visual Arts fulfills the college's mission to "educate men and women to explore opportunities and develop the skills and confidence necessary to become accomplished artists in the dynamic world of art and design
Concordia College - Mission, To influence the affairs of the world by sending into society thoughtful and informed men and women dedicated to the Christian life
Concordia University - Concordia is a Christian liberal arts university, one of 10 owned and operated by The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Crossroads College - Crossroads College serves Christ and His church through academic excellence in a Christ-centered education, by developing Christian leaders who impact the world for Christ, and by providing resources that strengthen churches and enrich the community
Crown College - The mission of Crown College is to provide a biblically based education for Christian leadership in The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the church at large, and the world.
Dunwoody College of Technology - The mission of Dunwoody is to provide leading-edge technological education and service to a diverse population of learners preparing for and practicing in business and industry
Gustavus Adolphus College - Gustavus Adolphus College is a church-related, residential liberal arts college firmly rooted in its Swedish and Lutheran heritage. The College offers students of high aspiration and promise a liberal arts education
Hamline University - Hamline University recognizes its pioneering spirit and roots in the inclusive traditions and values of the United Methodist Church
Macalester College - Macalester is committed to being a preeminent liberal arts college with an educational program known for its high standards for scholarship and its special emphasis on internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society
Minneapolis College of Art and Design - The Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) has been creating art on the cutting edge for well over a century. MCAD provides students the instruction they need to grow along with the freedom critical to fostering their individual creativity
North Central University - North Central University is a Christ centered Pentecostal school with a commitment to academic excellence that prepares students to fulfill biblical models of leadership and ministry throughout the world
Northwestern College - Northwestern College integrates the educational philosophy of faith, learning and living through two focuses, higher education and media 
Oak Hills Christian College - Oak Hills Christian College offers a Bible based education that helps students develop a Christ centered worldview and a heart for loving God and serving others
Pillsbury Baptist Bible College - The purpose of Pillsbury Baptist Bible College is to prepare students to be thoroughly furnished unto all good works through a program of biblical, general, and professional studies that integrate the doctrinal and ecclesiastical heritage of independent Baptist churches
Saint Mary's University - Enriched by the Catholic, Lasallian heritage, Saint Marys University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership
Saint Olaf College - St. Olaf, a four-year college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, provides an education committed to the liberal arts, rooted in the Christian Gospel, and incorporating a global perspective
University of Saint Thomas - Inspired by Catholic intellectual tradition, the University of St. Thomas educates students to be morally responsible leaders who think critically, act wisely and work skillfully to advance the common good
Walden University - Walden University provides a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar practitioners so that they may transform society
William Mitchell College of Law - We serve the law. We teach it, study it, practice it, and work to make it just. This is our mission
Community Colleges
Anoka-Ramsey Community College - Anoka Ramsey Community College, with campuses in Coon Rapids and Cambridge, has been a leading provider of higher education and training in the north suburban area of Minneapolis & St. Paul and East Central Minnesota since 1965
Century College - Your college is a learning centered community committed to providing quality lifelong education opportunities for a diverse citizenry
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College - The mission of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is to provide higher education opportunities for it's communities in a welcoming, culturally diverse environment
Hibbing Community College - Hibbing Community College is a community and technical college located in northern Minnesota. This college serves a large rural area and offers a variety of career and transfer programs
Inver Hills Community College - Inver Hills is a comprehensive community college committed to continuously improving student understanding and capabilities that help students lead purposeful lives, contribute to a vital social and economic community, and pursue lifelong learning.
Itasca Community College - Itasca Community College provides accessible academic and career related education which contributes to the social and economic health of the region, empowers learners to meet or exceed their expectations, and fosters critical thinking and civic and global engagement. 
Lake Superior College - Lake Superior College provides high quality, affordable higher education that benefits diverse learners, employers, and the community 
Mesabi Range Community and Technical College - Mesabi Range Community and Technical College provides high quality education resulting in rewarding employment, lifelong learning, and the enriched lives of our students and community
Minneapolis Community and Technical College - Our mission is to provide high quality, lifelong learning programs. We offer a spectrum of academic programs, including certificates, diplomas and associate degrees
Minnesota State Community and Technical College - To Provide accessible education with vigor and integrity to diverse learners, preparing them for dynamic learning, living, working, and serving
Minnesota West Community and Technical College - Minnesota West Community and Technical College is dedicated to serving the varied educational needs of our diverse populations in affordable, accessible and supportive settings
Normandale Community College - As an urban community college serving primarily the southwest metropolitan region of the Twin Cities, Normandale prepares students for full participation in our diverse communities, creates pathways to other college programs, and builds community connections
North Hennepin Community College - North Hennepin Community College is committed to educating a diverse community of learners to maximize their intellectual, creative and leadership potential
Northland Community and Technical College - Northland Community and Technical College is dedicated to creating a quality learning environment for all learners through partnerships with students, communities, businesses, and other educational institutions
Rainy River Community College - Begin your journey to the career of your choice by earning a degree, diploma or certificate at RRCC. Then GO TO WORK or TRANSFER to complete a major. Transfer is a sure thing within Minnesota
Rochester Community and Technical College - Rochester Community and Technical College provides accessible, affordable, quality learning opportunities to serve a diverse and growing community
Saint Paul Community and Technical College - We offer comprehensive opportunities for learning including technical, general and career education that enhances personal knowledge, advances economic opportunity and benefits a diverse population, business industry labor and the community
Vermilion Community College - Vermilion offers a personal learning environment. Our 20:1 student teacher ratio enables our instructors to know you on a first name basis. Students can also participate in the many athletic, intramural, outdoor and student life activities offered by our faculty and staff
Technical Colleges
Alexandria Technical College - Alexandria Technical College provides access to learning for careers and for life
Anoka Technical College - We are committed to continuous quality improvement for our instructors and staff to ensure you receive a quality education. Our instructors also enjoy a close relationship with their students through small class sizes and lab-focused instruction
Central Lakes College - Central Lakes College is a full service, comprehensive community and technical college. We offer a mix of technical college and community college programs and courses from campuses in Brainerd and Staples
Dakota County Technical College - The mission of Dakota County Technical College is to provide collegiate level education for employment in occupational fields other than those requiring a baccalaureate degree
Hennepin Technical College - Hennepin Technical College¿s mission is to provide quality technical education needed for employment in an ever changing global work environment
Mesabi Range Community and Technical College - Mesabi Range Community and Technical College provides high quality education resulting in rewarding employment, lifelong learning, and the enriched lives of our students and community
Minneapolis Community and Technical College - Our mission is to provide high quality, lifelong learning programs. We offer a spectrum of academic programs, including certificates, diplomas and associate degrees
Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical - Minnesota State College Southeast Technical is dedicated to providing education for employment, skill enhancement, and retraining. The primary focus is to anticipate and meet the educational and training needs of students and employers
Minnesota State Community and Technical College - To Provide accessible education with vigor and integrity to diverse learners, preparing them for dynamic learning, living, working, and serving
Minnesota West Community and Technical College - Minnesota West Community and Technical College is dedicated to serving the varied educational needs of our diverse populations in affordable, accessible and supportive settings
Northland Community and Technical College - Northland Community and Technical College is dedicated to creating a quality learning environment for all learners through partnerships with students, communities, businesses, and other educational institutions
Northwest Technical College - Northwest Technical College integrates the value of work with the educational experience to develop resourceful lifelong learners with knowledge, skills, and attitudes to secure rewarding careers and satisfying lives in an increasingly technologically focused, globally interdependent, multicultural society
Pine Technical College - Our mission is to provide superior education and services that enhance the communities we serve
Rochester Community and Technical College - Rochester Community and Technical College provides accessible, affordable, quality learning opportunities to serve a diverse and growing community
Saint Cloud Technical College - St. Cloud Technical College is located in one of the fastest growing communities in Minnesota. The college offers 100 career majors that can be completed in two years or less
Saint Paul Community and Technical College - We offer comprehensive opportunities for learning including technical, general and career education that enhances personal knowledge, advances economic opportunity and benefits a diverse population, business industry labor and the community
South Central College - South Central College provides comprehensive higher education for employment and continuous learning to promote individual growth and economic development
Weather
National Weather Service - Government Internet Service Home page. The starting point for official governemnt weather forecasts, warning, and meteorological products for forecasting ...
The Weather Channel - Free local weather & alerts always on your desktop! Get instant access to The Weather Channel forecasts. Get it FREE. Urgent storm alerts ring your phone ...
UM Weather - The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor's weather lab is among the pioneers of online weather products
Weatherbug - Live weather forecasts, including Doppler radar, storm alerts, and local weather reports 
Weather Underground - Weather forecasts for the US and the world with a fast, easy to use interface. Includes weather maps, graphics and radar images.
Maps
Google Earth - Beta - Google Earth combines satellite imagery, maps and the power of Google Search to put the world's geographic information at your fingertips - Free Download
Google Map - maps, driving directions, road trip planner....
Mapquest - maps, driving directions, road trip planner....
Utility Companies
Directv - All digital satellite tv and internet provider
Dish Network - All digital satellite tv provider
MediaCom - High Speed Internet, Digital and Cable TV, and digital phone service
Time Warner Cable - Cable tv, high speed internet, and digital phone service
Dakota Electric - Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, nonprofit electric utility serving parts of Dakota, Goodhue, Scott, and Rice counties, just south of the Twin Cities. Serving more than 95,000 members, Dakota Electric is the second-largest electric cooperative in Minnesota and is ranked among the 20 largest electric distribution cooperatives nationally
MVEC - Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) is a reliable power supplier to members in nine counties in Minnesota. These counties include; Blue Earth, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Le Sueur, Rice, Scott, Sibley and Waseca.
Xcel Energy - Start, transfer, stop your electrical service or view/pay your bills 
Center Point Energy - Competitive gas solutions for homes and large businesses. 
Frontier Communication - Innovative and reliable products and solutions. Phone service, High-Speed Internet, and long distance 
Integra Telecom - Providing commmunications network services, including internet access, voice services and long distance nationwide
Qwest - High-Speed Internet, Digital Voice: local and long-distance phone service,Digital TV, Wireless 
Local Sports
Minnesota Golf Courses - We think MinnesotaGolf.com is the only site you'll need to find that new course to play or to plan your next Minnesota golf getaway. Enjoy! 
Minnesota Gophers - University of Minnesota Sports
Minnesota Lynx - Check out our WNBA team
Minnesota State High School League - Minnesota State High School League, Click here to view the 2007 sports schedules. 
Minnesota Timberwolves - The Official site of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Minnesota Twins - The Official Site of the Minnesota Twins. 
Minnesota Vikings - The best way to stay on top of Vikings news.
Minnesota Wild - Welcome to the State of Hockey, Minnesota Wild's Official Website
Saint Paul Saints - The Official Home of The St. Paul Saints
Entertainment
Amusement Parks - Search for Minnesota amusement parks
Art Galleries - Find Minnesotas finest art galleries
Casinos - A guide to Minnesotas casinos
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - For over 100 years, Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory in St. Paul, Minnesota has charmed, educated and entertained millions of children and adults ...
Minnesota Historical Society - At the Minnesota Historical Society we've been collecting, preserving, and telling Minnesota stories for 150 years.
Minnesota State Fair - The Minnesota State Fair is one of the nation's largest and best-attended agricultural and educational entertainment events.
Minnesota State Parks Guide - Links to information on Minnesota's state parks, including maps, park fees, reservations, events and activities, and rules.
Minnesota Zoo - Apple Valley near Minneapolis and St. Paul. 2300 animals on 500 acres. General information, education program summary, webcams, a virtual tour of exhibits ...
Movie Theaters - Search for movies playing all around Minnesota
Museums - Your guide to all of Minnesotas museums. 
Music Scene - For musicians, fans and posers; a guide to local music everywhere. Support Your Local Scene(tm).
The Mystery Cafe - Interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theater for the general public, as well as corporate clients, either at our own venues or off-site.
Underwater World - The widest selection of exotic and rare marine fish, corals and invertebrates from tropical seas around the world.
Dining
Dining Guide - Your dining guide to the great state of Minnesota
Shopping
Albertville Premium Outlets - Find savings of 25% to 65% every day from our unparalleled collection of designer and name brand outlet stores.
Bloomingdales - Shop online. Bloomingdale's. Like no other store in the world
Burnsville Center - Burnsville, Minnesota. Find over 150 specialty shops, services, and restaurants plus a great selection of department stores 
Eden Prairie Center - Visit Eden Prairie Center located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota for the best in shopping, entertainment and dining!
Gadzooks - handbag, belts, sunglasses, hat & scarves, small hair goods. earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings. Womens · Mens · gift card · wish list 
GAP - There's more at Gap.com including Petites and Tall sizes, kids slim and husky sizes, and baby bedding. You'll also find your favorite T-shirts, jeans, ...
Hot Topic - Great products and accessories. Everything about the music and more! A national retailer specializing in music and pop culture based ...
JC Penny - Offering shoes, jewelry, apparel, home finishings, and toys. Includes a gift registry
Kohls - US department store chain, offering online shopping for clothing and household goods, plus a store locator, company information, and employment ...
Macy's - Shop online at the world's largest department store; an extraordinary assortment from all the best brands in fashion for him and her, everything for home, ...
Mall of America - The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota has more than 500 specialty stores, 50 restaurants, 7 nightclubs and 14 movie theaters
Nordstrom - National department store offers products and brand name merchandise at their online store.
Old Navy - provides the latest fashions at great prices for the whole family. Shop Men's, Women's and Kids' departments, Womens Plus, and clothing for baby ...
Pac Sun - Shop PacSun for top skate & surf clothing for teens. Buy Roxy, Quiksilver, Hurley, Volcom, Element & Billabong. Latest fashion trends & largest selection 
Ragstock - New and Vintage Clothing. Great Prices. Huge Selection. Order online
Ridgedale Center - Visit Ridgedale Center located in Minnetonka, Minnesota for the best in shopping, entertainment and dining!
Sam's Club - Warehouse retail chain provides product information, store finder, and corporate profile
Sears - Shop Sears.com for Great Prices on Brand Name Appliances, Electronics & Computers, Craftsman Tools, Kenmore Appliances, Sears Parts, Home Fashions and more
Southdale Shopping Center - Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends or looking for a unique gift, make Southdale Center your choice for everyday shopping
Target - Expect More, Pay Less at Target.com, the official Target online retail site. Shop the latest in Women, Men, Baby, Kids, Home, Bed+Bath, Furniture, Sports
Walmart - Visit Walmart.com, the official Wal-Mart online retail site. Shop the wide selection of items at Every Day Low Prices.
Zumiez - Carries gear, clothing and accessories for skateboarding and snowboarding.
News & Information
WCCO 4 - Local CBS affiliate
KSTP 5 - Local ABC affiliate
FOX 9 - Local FOX affiliate
KARE 11 - Local NBC affiliate
City Pages - Music, restuarants, movies, arts, news and classifieds weekly in Minneapolis and Saint Paul
Star Tribune - Online version of Minneapolis daily newspaper. Site features updated news stories, diversions, weather, archives.
Pioneer Press - The online version of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, a daily newspaper.
Local Radio Stations
93X - Twin Cities hard rock/alternative format station. Graphic-intensive site features station and programming information, live 'Net broadcast.
Cities 97 - Twin Cities light alternative format station. "Cities 97" web site features station and program information, live 'Net broadcast. "True To The Music."
KDWB - Twin Cities Top 40 contemporary hit music station. Site features station information, playlist, live 'Net broadcast, events. "Today's Best Music."
KFAN - Twin Cities sports/talk format station. Site features station and program information, live 'Net broadcast, station merchandise.
KS95 - Twin Cities Top 40 format station. "KS-95." Site features staff biographies, music and program information, and a live 'Net broadcast.
KSTP AM 1500 - A talk radio station that broadcasts nationally syndicated and local shows. Hear RealAudio broadcasts of local programs or read about the hosts.
KTIS - Northwestern College radio station in Minneapolis, features Contemporary Christian music and Bible teaching programs. Provides a live Internet audio stream.
KQRS - KQRS features Contemporary and Classic blend of rock from the 60's through the 90's. Personality-oriented for the lifestyle of adult listeners.
Minnesota Public Radio - Broadcasting a mix of talk and music. Operates a regional network of 34 stations (not all of which are in Minnesota) and is a major station-based producer of public radio programs.
WCCO - Twin Cities News/Talk format station. Site features station and personality information. "The Good Neighbor."