Never Buy a Home in Minnesota Until You Watch This (7 Costly Mistakes)

Jason Huerkamp · Living in MinneapolisSeptember 9, 20259:02419 views

About this video

In this video, Jason from Huerkamp Home Group, one of Minnesota’s top real estate teams, breaks down the biggest mistakes buyers make when purchasing a home in Minnesota and how to avoid them. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating to the Midwest, these tips will save you time, money, and stress.

Key takeaways

Seven common mistakes buyers make in Minnesota. 1: not understanding winter maintenance: snow load on the roof, ice dams from poor attic insulation and ventilation, and the cost of clearing a long driveway. Ask the sellers what they spend.
2: skipping the sewer or septic inspection. Many older Twin Cities homes have clay sewer pipes that crack and let tree roots in; a camera scope gives you a video report.
3: assuming every home is energy efficient. Homes built after about 2000 usually are; many built before about 1990 aren't, unless they've been renovated. Ask for utility bills, keeping in mind the sellers' thermostat habits.
4: ignoring flood zones. They're less common in Minnesota, but check FEMA flood maps.
5: not knowing the property taxes, which vary widely by city and district and tend to be higher inside the seven-county metro. A strong commercial tax base can help keep residential taxes down.
6: underestimating the commute, which can triple on a big snow day. 7: falling in love too fast in a competitive market; take time to think it through.

Questions this video answers

Should I skip the sewer inspection to make my offer stronger?

Jason says no. Many older homes have clay sewer pipes prone to cracks and root intrusion, and a camera scope costs little compared with a sewer line replacement.

What are ice dams?

Ridges of ice at the roof edge that form when heat escapes into the attic and melts snow, which then refreezes. Water can back up under the shingles and leak inside. Good attic insulation and ventilation prevent them.