What's the Buzz in Owatonna Minnesota Real Estate?

Sales during the last 2 months have picked up and right now we’re running ahead of 2008’s sales activity (the first time all year). It seems that the first time buyer stimulus plan has been working. We’ve seen a strong presence of those buyers in our market and that helps everyone.

We predicted that first time home buyers would be the mainstay of the 2009 market, along with buyers relocating into Owatonna for their jobs, and it appears to have panned out that way. One of my lending experts, Brenda Bednar (through Advisor’s Mortgage) noted that she is taking applications from those two buyer niches. Property issues are becoming more of a challenge with the increase in foreclosed properties, many of which have deferred maintenance issues to contend with. If you have any financing questions you can contact Brenda at 507-455-1858. Her expertise will get you moving in the right direction.

According to the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors MLS our year to date activity is showing 305 closed residential listings in Owatonna. The average sale price of sold properties is $145,657 which is down from 2008 when the average sale price at this time was $160,937. I believe this trend is due to an increase in bank owned properties and the influx of first time buyers. Our average market time is 120 days which is actually down from 131 in 2008 at this time. The market has changed, in particular housing prices.

At this time we have 220 active residential listings with an average list price of $179,193. They’ve been on the market for an average of 169 days which has been increasing.

Interest rates continue to hover near their lows, and the tax credit provides a strong incentive for first time, and now, repeat buyers to make the most of the values that are out there in our local market.

Market cycles affecting housing come and go, just like all segments of the economy. Right now may seem like a challenging market, but it’s also a market of opportunity. Investors and first time home buyers will be the obvious winners, but existing homeowners can profit, too. If you’re looking to move up into a larger home – it’s a great time to make that move. The inventory and prices of move up homes have never been more plentiful and attractive. Call or e-mail me today to learn about how this market can be beneficial for you. It’s time to get moving.

What's Going on in Owatonna Minnesota?

What’s Going on in Owatonna in October?

10/1 and 10/2 Harvest Fest 2009 – downtown stores participating with decorated store fronts and the Scarecrow contest

10/3 Homecoming for Owatonna High School, parade downtown in the afternoon, football game at 7:00 and activities for students Friday night at Southpark Bowl. Go Huskies!

10/2 and 10/3 Artists of Minnesota Showcase, Owatonna Arts Center

10/3 Owatonna Hospital public Open House at their new location at 2250 26th Street NW

10/4 – 10/10 Fire Prevention Week, Don’t get burned, plan and practice your fire safety and evacuation plan

10/5 Steele County Historical Society Pasta Night Out Fundraiser, call Laura at 507-451-1420 for information

10/2 and 10/3, 10/9 and 10/10 The Wedding Singer – The Awesome Musical, presented by Riverland Community College

10/10 7th Annual Women’s Health Day, Owatonna Holiday Inn

10/10 Express hockey home game, Steele County Four Seasons Centre

10/17 Upper Midwest and Cavy Show, Steele County Four Season’s Centre

10/18 Young Life Banquet, Willow Creek School

10/27 Owatonna Chamber Business After Hours, United Prairie Bank

10/31 Halloween, watch out for all those little ghosts and goblins, drive safely

What's the Real Estate Buzz in Owatonna?

What’s the Real Estate Buzz in Owatonna?

What happened to the summer weather? Boy, our summer has been marked by cooler temps, but the market has been heating up.

First time home buyers continue to fuel the activity. Property issues are becoming more of a challenge with the increase in foreclosed properties, many of which have deferred maintenance issues to contend with. If you have any financing questions you can contact Brenda at 507-455-1858. Her expertise will get you moving in the right direction.

According to the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors MLS our year to date activity is showing 142 closed residential listings in Owatonna. The average sale price of sold properties is $136,915. I believe this trend is due to an increase in bank owned properties and the influx of first time buyers. Our average market time is 115 days for those homes that have sold.

At this time 46 homes are pending sale with an average list price of $143,775, and we have 236 active residential listings with an average list price of $194,677. They’ve been on the market for an average of 158 days.

Market cycles affecting housing come and go, just like all segments of the economy. Right now may seem like a challenging market, but it’s also a market of opportunity. Investors and first time home buyers will be the obvious winners, but existing homeowners can profit, too. If you’re looking to move up into a larger home – it’s a great time to make that move. The inventory and prices of move up homes have never been more plentiful and attractive. Call or e-mail me today to learn about how this market can be beneficial for you. It’s time to get moving.

What's Going On In Owatonna Minnesota?

What a great time of year to enjoy outdoor activities and fun-filled events around Owatonna. Of course the parks are filling with people who enjoy riding their bikes, walking their pets, playing with kids and picnicking, but did you know that there’s plenty more to do around town? Here’s a list of things to do and events to enjoy that’ll get summer off to a great start:

5/26/09 The Owatonna Chamber’s Business After Hours will be held at the Steele County Historical Society, starts at 5:30
5/29 – 5/30 Smokin’ in Steele for rib and BBQ lovers. This event has been proclaimed by the Governor as the State Championship Barbeque Competition. The event will take place at the Steele County Fairgrounds and several blues bands will be performing during the weekend.
5/30 Young Life holds its annual fundraising car wash at in the parking lot of the former Wal Mart.
5/30 The annual meeting of the Minnesota Rabbit Breeders will be held at the Steele County Fairgrounds
6/1 The Owatonna Country Club will host the annual fundraiser “Golf to Prevent Child Abuse” which benefits the Exchange Club Center.
6/4 Is the kickoff date for the 11 @ 7 Concert in the Park Series featuring the Tuition Daddies. The evening can be enjoyed at Central Park.
6/6 The much anticipated grand opening of the River Springs Water Park.
6/7 The class of 2009 graduates from Owatonna High School. The ceremony takes place at the 4 Seasons Centre.
6/11 – 6/13 The Minnesota Fire Department Convention will be hosted at the 4 Seasons Centre. There are numerous activities and events planned throughout the weekend.
6/12 Street Dance hosted by Just One More to honor the attendees for the State Fire Department convention.
6/13 Parade for Minnesota’s Fire Department convention-goers followed by fireworks in the evening at the Steele County Fairgrounds

Owatonna Minnesota Real Estate Buzz for May 22nd

What’s the Real Estate Buzz in Owatonna?

Things were picking up in April and early May. The outlook is brighter with increased activity. It seems that our spring market is about a month behind – just like our spring weather.

We’re predicting that first time home buyers will be the mainstay of this market, along with buyers relocating into Owatonna for their jobs. According to my lending expert Brenda Bednar (through Advisor’s Mortgage) she is taking applications from those two buyer niches. Property issues are becoming more of a challenge with the increase in foreclosed properties, many of which have deferred maintenance issues to contend with. If you have any financing questions you can contact Brenda at 507-455-1858. Her expertise will get you moving in the right direction.

According to the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors MLS our year to date activity is showing 91 closed residential listings in Owatonna. The average sale price of sold properties is $134,484 which is down from 2008 when the average sale price at this time was $159,861. I believe this trend is due to an increase in bank owned properties and the influx of first time buyers. Our average market time for sold properties is 115 days which is actually down from 139 in 2008 at this time. But looking back, I found that 2007 was 156, 2006 was 138 days and 2005 was 121 days, again for this same period. The market has changed.

At this time 114 homes are pending sale, and we have 214 active residential listings with an average list price of $195,490. They’ve been on the market for an average of 157 days. We hit over 300 listings before the end of 2007, so it’s nice to see that number come down. We have 286 active building lots on the market.

Market cycles affecting housing come and go, just like all segments of the economy. Right now may seem like a challenging market, but it’s also a market of opportunity. Investors and first time home buyers will be the obvious winners, but existing homeowners can profit, too. If you’re looking to move up into a larger home – it’s a great time to make that move. The inventory and prices of move up homes have never been more plentiful and attractive. Call or e-mail me today to learn about how this market can be beneficial for you. It’s time to get moving.

What’s the Real Estate Buzz in Owatonna?

Things were picking up in April and the outlook is brighter with increased activity. It seems that our spring market is about a month behind – just like our spring weather.

We’re predicting that first time home buyers will be the mainstay of this market, along with buyers relocating into Owatonna for their jobs. According to my lending expert Brenda Bednar (through Advisor’s Mortgage) she is taking applications from those two buyer niches. Brenda stresses the importance of good credit when trying to obtain a mortgage. If you have any financing questions you can contact Brenda at 507-455-1858. Her expertise will get you moving in the right direction.

According to the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors MLS our year to date activity is showing 81 closed residential listings in Owatonna. The average sale price of sold properties is $162,195 which is down from 2007 when the average sale price at this time was $173,211. I believe this trend is due to an increase in bank owned properties and the influx of first time buyers. Our average market time is 156 days which is actually down from 173 in 2007 at this time. But looking back, I found that 2006 was 141 days and 2005 was 131 days, again for this same period. The market has changed.

At this time 66 homes are pending sale, and we have 198 active residential listings with an average list price of $190,231. They’ve been on the market for an average of 156 days. We hit over 300 listings before the end of 2007, so it’s nice to see that number come down. We have 286 active building lots on the market.

Market cycles affecting housing come and go, just like all segments of the economy. Right now may seem like a challenging market, but it’s also a market of opportunity. Investors and first time home buyers will be the obvious winners, but existing homeowners can profit, too. If you’re looking to move up into a larger home – it’s a great time to make that move. The inventory and prices of move up homes have never been more plentiful and attractive. Call or e-mail me today to learn about how this market can be beneficial for you. It’s time to get moving.

1435 Jadden Lane SE

Lynn Johnson | Coldwell Banker Home Connection | 507-451-8080 1435 Jadden Lane SE, Owatonna, MN Incredibly attractive and well maintained 4 bedroom 3 bath rambler 4 Bdrm Single Family House offered at $234,000 Year Built 2004 Sq Footage 2,822 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 3 Car garage Lot Size .23 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Very nice 4 bedroom, 3 bath rambler with room for everyone. Enjoy the summer from the patio. Very well maintained home with nice decor. All ready for you to move right in. see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES Central A/C Central heat Family room Living room Dishwasher Refrigerator Stove/Oven Microwave Basement Laundry area - inside Balcony, Deck, or Patio Yard OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES Main Floor Laundry Large, lower level family room 3 bedrooms on one level Nicely landscaped Vaulted Ceilings Dry Basement ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Seller contact info: Lynn Johnson Coldwell Banker Home Connection 507-451-8080 For sale by agent/broker Equal Opportunity Housing Posted: Apr 29, 2008, 12:35pm PDT

What's Going on in Owatonna Minnesota?

You can tell Spring is here. All the activities of Spring are a great reminder that even if the weather doesn't act like it, it's here!

This weekend (5/2 through 5/4) will once again see dozens of softball teams from all over the upper Midwest compete and play in Corky's 29th Annual Earlybird Tournament. All of the proceeds raised by the tournament will be used to benefit the Owatonna Park and Rec scholarship fund.

During the tournament, there will be entertainment in the form of Harvey and Joe's DJ services at the cement tent by the ball diamonds on 5/2.

Centro Campesino will host a Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Central Park on May 3rd. The event features a three mile run, food, dance and fun.

If you're tastes run more toward fashion, there's something for you, too. On May 3rd the Steele County Historical Societyis pleased to present a "Hats Off to Mom" fashion show which will be held at St. Joseph's Church.

Also on May 3rd you can catch the Minnesota Sesquicentennial Banner on display at the Owatonna Public Library.

Hopefully, the weather will cooperate for the opening day of the Farmer's Market on Saturday, May 3rd. It's a great place to buy fresh produce and flowers - all grown on local farms. I rarely get a chance to go, because of Saturday morning open houses - I guess I'll just have to get up earlier.

Sunday May 4th marks the day for the SeniorPlace fundraiser pancake breakfast at the Owatonna Eagles Club.

After filling up on pancakes you can stop in at the Fours Seasons Centre for the Blessing of the Bikes - an annual event designed to bless bikers and keep them safe as they travel the roads.

The Four Seasons Centre will be a busy place on May 7th as they are the site for the 5th annual Steele County Senior and Caregiver Expo. There will be vendors and information available for people who work with and provide services to seniors and caregivers.

On May 8th, there will be a seminar that addresses "Recruiting and Retaining Employees in the 21st Century" which will be held at the Holiday Inn near Cabela's.

May 8th wraps up this full week with an informational session at Senior Place provided by Regional Law Services.

Stay tuned to see what else is going on around Owatonna.

Market Buzz in Owatonna Minnesota Real Estate

Things are starting to pick up in April so the outlook is brighter with some increased activity. It seems that our spring market is about a month behind – just like our spring weather. The two seem to go hand in hand this time of year.

We’re predicting that first time home buyers will be the mainstay of this market, along with buyers relocating into Owatonna for their jobs. According to my lending expert Kriss Meier of Countrywide Financial (through Profinium Bank in Owatonna) she is taking applications from those two buyer niches. Property issues are becoming more of a challenge with the increase in foreclosed properties, many of which have deferred maintenance issues to contend with. If you have any financing questions you can contact Kriss at 507-446-4289. Her expertise will get you moving in the right direction.

According to the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors MLS our year to date activity is showing 60 closed listings in Owatonna, with 54 of those being residential properties. The average sale price of sold properties is $161,361 which is down from 2007 when the average sale price at this time was $172,611. I believe this trend is due to an increase in bank owned properties and the influx of first time buyers. Our average market time is 176 days which is actually down from 188 in 2007 at this time. But looking back, I found that 2006 was 141 days and 2005 was 131 days, again for this same period. The market has changed.

We have 33 new listings on the market since the first of the year. At this time 70 homes are pending sale, and we have 206 active residential listings. We hit over 300 listings before the end of 2007, so it’s nice to see that number come down. We have 286 active building lots on the market. So far 57 listings have expired since the first of the year. That has been the biggest change in this market with many nice homes staying on the market beyond their original listing time frame. That number is up 533% from the 2005 market when homes seldom took more than 6 months to sell.

Market cycles affecting housing come and go, just like all segments of the economy. Right now may seem like a challenging market, but it’s also a market of opportunity. Investors and first time home buyers will be the obvious winners, but existing homeowners can profit, too. If you’re looking to move up into a larger home – it’s a great time to make that move. The inventory and prices of move up homes have never been more plentiful and attractive. Call or e-mail me today to learn about how this market can be beneficial for you. It’s time to get moving. Find the house that's right for you.

What's Going on in Owatonna Minnesota?

Here's the buzz for Owatonna's activities and events for the month of March. You can view it on my Active Rain blog, too.

What’s Going On Around Owatonna?

This month there are some informative and fun events taking place in Owatonna, Minnesota.

This last weekend the Minnesota Deer and Turkey Expo was held at the Four Seasons Centre, and this weekend it will be the site of the North American Farm and Power Show. They expect to draw vendors from all over and promise to have interesting exhibits and demonstrations throughout the weekend.

Friday is the night when local business women will be honored at the Women of Achievement Scholarship Fundraiser. It will be held at the Owatonna Arts Center on Friday, the 14th from 6:15 to 9:30.

The Village of Yesteryear is hosting a lecture on the history of Beaver Lake and Ellendale. We have a lake place on Beaver Lake and thoroughly enjoy summers fun at the lake. That program should be very interesting. That will be on March 18th at 1:00 pm.

The Owatonna Chamber’s Business After Hours for March will take place at Manke’s Outdoor Equipment and Supply on March 25th from 5:30 until 7:00 pm. It’s a great way to meet area business people and network.

The KOWZ/KRUE 92 Home & Recreation Show wraps up the month’s events at the Four Seasons Centre running from 3/28 – 3/30. Coldwell Banker Home Connection will have a booth at the show and we’ll be showcasing our listings and providing information about buying, selling, building lots and new construction.

Warning - if you don't like snow you may be offended by my photos - but this year we have plenty of it. I want to show off my community. We've been fortunate to raise our family, make lasting friendships, grow a business, and have fun all while living in Owatonna, Minnesota. Owatonna is a community of 24,000 about 50 miles south on I-35 from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. We are also 45 minutes west of the famed Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Here are a few of the photos I have taken around town recently -

This photo was taken at Dartt's park. One of our walking trails goes right through the park. There are ball diamonds, tennis courts, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, basketball hoops, and playground equipment for everyone's enjoyment.



This is the fountain in Central Park. In the summer kids will dip their toes and grown-ups will toss coins for good luck.

This is a photo of the Central Park band shell. It was recreated to have the same look as the original bandshell. It's a great place to enjoy summer concerts and other community activities.

This imposing building is our city administration building. It also houses the Owatonna Arts Center. This building used to serve as a State School (Orphanage). Children whose families could no longer care for them would be brought in by train from all over Minnesota. There is an orphnage museum on site that provides a wonderful sense of history for the community.


This photo shows off the exterior grounds of the Owatonna Arts Center. It's a wonderful facility that offers a great venue for gatherings and parties. We hosted our Christmas party here for the agents from all three of our offices. In addition they offer classes and showcase art and local talents from area artists.


This view shows the entrance to the trails of Kaplan's Woods. I've spent a lot of time hiking through woods this year. There are plenty of hills, creeks, wildlife for every nature enthusiast to enjoy. Get off the couch and have fun in the winter!

This photo shows off the Lake Kohlmeyer fishing pier. The geese have found the open water and are ready for spring. People fish off the pier most of the year. I always love riding my bike on the trailsnearby in the summer and I get to watch the love of fishing being shared between grandparents, parents, and kids. Families love it. Ther's also a swimming beach and playground. You can even rent canoes and paddle boats here. We had a summer fun day and ran an obstacle course here once with our agents.

As you can see we have a variety of wonderful attractions that can be enjoyed throughout the year - hey don't forget we also have Cabela's about 2 miles north on I-35. Stop in and visit - anytime!