Big Real Estate Questions. Bigger Answers

We asked local real estate agents to spill the secrets, dish on the market’s seasonal quirks, and share the smartest moves you can make in this region’s housing market.

Q: What Are the Hottest Neighborhoods in Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo for Long-term Home Value?

It’s hot if it’s in demand. This will be the neighborhoods with the lowest inventory. Right now, that tends to be established neighborhoods with low special assessments. A couple of other locations include neighborhoods with one-level living homes, as we don’t have a lot in this area, and newer developments centered around parks and schools. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Right now, neighborhoods like Rivers Bend, Rocking Horse Farm, and Shadow Creek are on fire. Those areas blend lifestyle, amenities, and smart long-term equity plays. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Bluemont Lakes Area has some amazing views and homes that are ready for a second owner—these are strong choices for lasting home value in Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo. With a little updating, you can get an amazing value in an established community. - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Farg

Q: How Does the Market Typically Behave Here During the Winter vs. Summer?

The market typically heats up significantly in spring and summer with higher inventory and quicker sales, while winter sees less inventory and slower activity, though serious buyers remain active. Some of the best deals are in the winter, and who wants to sweat to death moving in the humid summer? - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo Summer is speed. Listings fly. Buyers come out in full force. Winter has less competition, motivated sellers, and better deals if you play it smart - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty We are not like the South or drier climates, so it’s no surprise that our housing market is cyclical like our seasons. The spring market kicks off when we get those first few thaw days in February/March, and when buyers see what they’ll get back on their tax returns. That money can be used towards a down payment or closing costs. Once the ground is thawed, the new construction takes off, and there is typically more inventory. It’s not uncommon for July to be slow with peak summer vacations, and again in late August when kids go back to school. As we get closer to winter, there will be another big rush before the holidays and inclement weather. It can get slower because people are spending more money around the holidays, and certain parts of houses can’t be seen or tested depending on how cold it is and how much snow is on the ground. - Alicia Graves, Green Team Realty

Q: What Are Some Pieces of Advice You Would Give to Home Buyers Out There?

Don’t just shop the interest rate, shop the lender and their programs, too. This will be one of your bigger purchases in life, and you want someone who is going to educate you along the way with your financial interests at heart. Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Buy with vision. Don’t just look at square footage, look at lifestyle. Can you see yourself thriving there? And don’t wait for the perfect time—timing the market is a myth. Instead, time in the market should be the focus. Buy when it’s right for you, and the value follows. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Think long-term and act fast—homes here average just 28 days on the market during peak season. Always, always get pre-approved and never skip the home inspection—it’s your safety net in our tough winters. - Kyle Olson Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo

Q: What Are Some Pieces of Advice You Would Give to Home Sellers Out There?

You get one shot at a first impression, therefore, anything you can do to make your home stand out and get buyers in the door is key. It starts with professional photography. Marketing is key - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Preparing your house for sale is as important as the listing price. People first see your house online to determine whether a physical showing is worth their time. As the saying goes, 'A picture is worth a thousand words.' Start by decluttering, cleaning, and packing now. You’ll thank yourself later when moving day comes. Little touches can have the biggest impact, from paint and minor repairs to servicing utilities and a deep clean. - Alicia Graves, Green Team Realt Make your home irresistible— price right from the start, stage like it's your final act, and hire a photographer who makes your property shine brighter than your neighbors’ - Kyle Olson Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo

Q: What is the Most Common Mistake You See Homebuyer S Make That the Y Should Avoid?

Going for 'good enough'—never underestimate the importance of inspections, especially when winters here can freeze and thaw your budget overnight. - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo Overthinking. Getting stuck in what-ifs while someone else writes the offer. You’ve got to move with purpose and clarity. When this happens, analysis paralysis kicks in and opportunities are missed. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty There are professionals who make the process easier and smoother. It’s important for home buyers to trust their realtor, their mortgage lender, and others to help in their decisions along the way. Even those who have bought and sold before may not know all the changes and nuances that take place in the real estate world, continually. These professionals stay in tune with local, state, and national information to keep consumers in the know. If buying a house is a healthy, financial decision for you, then go for it. Learn as much as you can during the process while having reasonable expectations. - Alicia Graves, Green Team Realty

Q: What is the Most Common Mistake You See Home Sellers Make That They Should Avoid?

Not putting in the effort to prepare their house for sale and wanting to price it higher than the market allows. No one wants their house to sit on the market for a long time and be perceived as stale by prospective buyers. Obviously, there are moments when the market is slower, or niche housing takes more time, but if all the houses around you are selling and you’re not, then you may need to consider adjusting the price or changing something in the house. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Overpricing. There are certain times when that works, aka during COVID. In a high-interest market when affordability is tough, you end up netting less on your home with all the reductions vs. pricing it right from the start for multiple offers. The first two weeks on the market are crucial. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Setting prices based on dreams rather than market reality. Homes priced correctly from day one sell nearly twice as fast. - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo

Q: Are There Particular Neighborhoods That Tend to Hold Value Better During Economic Downturns?

The timeless charm of neighborhoods like Hawthorne and South Fargo or the stability of Charleswood helps them weather economic storms better than most. - Kyle Olson Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo Areas with strong school districts, newer infrastructure, and lifestyle-driven amenities, like South Fargo and parts of Horace, tend to weather downturns better. When lifestyle and demand intersect, value holds. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Yes, the lower to mid-range houses in established or historic neighborhoods tend to withstand the ups and downs of the housing market. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty

Q: What Types of Homes Sell Fastest in This Area?

Right now, it’s your average first-time home buyer houses that are $300,000 or less. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Good homes that are well kept and around the $300k price point tend to sell the fastest due to affordability and speaking to a very large buyer pool. 3 bed 2 bath homes with a good school district. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty The sweet spot? Homes priced between $250K-$350K with stylish interiors, energy-efficient features, and no need for a to-do list. These sell almost 30% faster. - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo

Q: Are There Any North Dakota or Minnesota Homebuyer Assistance Programs We Should Know About?

NDHFA’s FirstHome program, MN’s Start Up program, and even some local lender grants. The key is getting connected to the right lender early. A good lender is key to know your options - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty ND Housing Finance Agency programs and Minnesota’s Start Up Loan program can put thousands toward your down payment or closing costs. These programs are hidden gems— use them! - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo Yes, both MN and ND have great options. Minnesota has the Deferred Payment Loan program and Monthly Payment Loan program. They also have First Generation Homebuyer program with up to $32,000 in downpayment and closing cost assistance. Each program works a little differently, so you’ll want to consult with a lender to see if you qualify or check out the Minnesota Housing website for additional information. North Dakota has a First Time Homebuyer Loan, a Home Access Loan, and the ND Roots Loan. All of them have income and purchase price limits as well as access to downpayment and closing cost assistance. You can review these at ndhfa.org and consult with a lender to see if you qualify - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty

Q: Are There Any Local Builders Known for Better Energy Efficiency or Cold-Weather Performance?

A lot of builders can do a custom build to include energy efficient options in your future home, but one builder that stands out would be Cornerstone Custom Homes. They’ve been in business since 1998, and it’s been their standard practice to improve energy efficiency in their houses, helping reduce costs and increase comfort. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Plecity Kowalski and Heritage Homes are ones that consistently lead with quality and cold-weather-smart builds. We’re talking upgraded insulation, and systems built for the winters. - Tyler Bretz Raboin Realty Hawthorne Custom Homes isn't just building houses—they’re crafting homes designed to stand tall against the Fargo cold while saving you money on energy bills. - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo

Q: How Competitive Are Offers in This Market Right Now— Are Bidding Wars Common?

Expect a fight—especially for homes under $350K. Be prepared to act decisively and strategically. If/when rates go down, we will see even more buyers on the market. - Kyle Olson Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo If it’s clean, updated, and priced right, we can expect bidding wars, especially under that $400k price point. - Tyler Bretz, Raboin Realty Inventory is lower, so if the house or the location of the house is desirable, then you will run into multiple offer situations. I tend to see multiple bids with new hot listings, price drops, and interest rate drops. I know some individuals are waiting for interest rates to lower before buying. However, this can mean writing an offer way above list price to compete with more buyers. Waiting isn’t always ideal. Discuss with your realtor the pace of the market in your price range so you know what to expect when making offers. - Alicia Graves, Green Team Realty

Q: Are There Typical Closing Costs Specific to This Region That C Atch Buyers Off Guard?

Specials (those can be big), and the cost of inspections in older homes (the home plus sewer lines). That’s why I walk every client through a cost breakdown before they fall in love. No surprises. - Tyler Bretz, Raboin Realty Overall, it’s going to be special assessments: specials attached to the property, specials that are pending and proposed for future city work, or specials not yet assessed by the city. It never hurts to contact the city or county directly. If someone doesn’t live on the Minnesota side or it’s their first time buying a house, then it could be the deed tax. Typically, the seller is liable, but it doesn’t prohibit the seller from assigning it to the buyer in a private contract. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty Watch out for property taxes and special assessments—often a shock to newcomers. Asking about them early can save you unexpected financial stress. - Kyle Olson Keller Williams Inspire Realty Farg

Q: Is There Any Thing Else You Would Like to Say to Our Readers?

It’s a big transaction. It should be a fun process, and you should always use a professional to navigate the waters. I’m bullish on the real estate market in the FM area—we tend to do well even in economic downturns. You can’t go wrong elevating your lifestyle and treating it as a nice investment for the future. - Tyler Bretz, Raboin Realty Join us at Fargo’s Longest Open House this June 20 - 22, a 66-hour charitable marathon event supporting the Alzheimer's Association. Experience fun, community, and homes for a cause! Find out more about the mission at longestopenhouse.com - Kyle Olson, Keller Williams Inspire Realty Fargo Buying and selling a house can be overwhelming, but doesn’t have to be. You have to connect yourself with the right trusted professionals, learning along the way. Remember, it’s not every day you buy or sell a house. Real estate laws and documents are ever evolving. Don’t hesitate to ask questions when you’re investing in yourself and your future. Your concerns are important, so stay curious and informed. - Alicia Graves Green Team Realty