Selling a home in Minnesota this fall is still very doable, but the market has shifted. Buyers have more choices and higher payments, so the details matter more. Here is the latest data and eight ways to sell well.
Where the market is now
According to Minnesota REALTORS®, homes are taking longer to sell in much of the state. In September, the median time on market rose to 37 days in the 7-county Twin Cities region, 56 days in the Arrowhead and 49 days in the Southeast Region. Sellers in the Twin Cities region received 97.8% of their original list price on average, down from 98.6% a year ago. Minneapolis Area REALTORS® reports that 16-county metro inventory rose 11.2% to 12,411 homes.
Central Minnesota is the exception. Homes there sold in a median of 40 days, faster than a year ago, and the median price rose 2.9% to $360,000.
On the financing side, Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey for the week of October 15, 2026 put the average 30-year fixed rate at 7.40%, unchanged from the week before, and the 15-year fixed at 6.71%, down from 6.73%. A year ago the same survey showed 6.27% and 5.52%. The St. Louis Fed’s FRED database lists the same weekly readings. The survey assumes a conventional purchase loan with 20% down and excellent credit, so your own quote may be higher or lower.
8 tips for Minnesota sellers
1. Price it right from day one
Buyers watch new listings closely. A home priced in line with recent nearby sales gets the most attention in its first two weeks, which is when it matters most.
2. Look at closed sales, not list prices
Ask your agent for recent closed sales and how long they took. Asking prices on active listings tell you what sellers hope for, not what buyers pay.
3. Fix the small stuff
Leaky faucets, loose handles and scuffed paint are cheap to fix and make buyers worry less about bigger issues.
4. Think about a pre-listing inspection
Knowing your home’s issues up front lets you fix them or price them in, so you are not surprised during negotiations.
5. Plan for concessions
With rates over 7%, many buyers care more about their monthly payment than the price. A credit toward closing costs or a rate buydown can make your home stand out.
6. Make photos count
Most buyers see your home online first. Declutter, open the blinds and schedule professional photos before the snow flies.
7. Be ready for winter showings
Keep walks and driveways clear, the home warm, and a place for boots by the door. Have recent heating bills ready for buyers who ask.
8. Watch the early feedback
If showings or online views are light after two weeks, talk with your agent about adjusting price or presentation before the listing goes stale.
The bottom line
Minnesota is moving toward a more balanced market. Prices are mostly steady, but buyers have more time and more choices. Sellers who price realistically, prepare the home and stay flexible on terms are still getting their homes sold.
Photo: “Home for Sale and Open House signs” by Rick Obst, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
Sources: Minnesota REALTORS® Local Market Updates, September 2026 (via rasminfo.com and stcloudrealtors.com); Minneapolis Area REALTORS® Local Market Update, September 2026; Freddie Mac PMMS (Oct. 15, 2026); FRED series MORTGAGE30US and MORTGAGE15US.
Please confirm details yourself.
Sponsored by Dan DeMark, REALTOR® | LPT Realty | goldenrulerealestateservices.com
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This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Talk with a licensed lender, attorney or tax professional about your own situation.
