Minnesota Community Rated Among Best Places to Live

By Karen Lawson
Local Lender Columnist
Oct 5, 2007
Eden Prairie, MN is listed tenth on Money magazine's 2006 list of 100 Best Places to Live. With a median home price of $289,250, this Minnesota community offers affordable family living. A notable finding is that approximately 6% of residents commute more than 45 minutes to work, compared to an average of 13% for all communities appearing on the list.

Twin Cities Suburb Provides Affordable Home Prices, Recreational and Cultural Venues

According to the survey, Eden Prairie, a suburb of the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, offers 2799 restaurants, 13 ski areas and 12 four year colleges and universities nearby. Diverse cultural and recreational opportunities can accommodate a wide range of interests. With home prices lower compared to many areas of the US, Minnesota homebuyers may have more flexibility in choosing a mortgage loan. Larger down payments and continued appreciation of home values can help homeowners accumulate home equity.

The decision to relocate can be made easier by doing some "home-work" in advance. Of course, if you are moving due to an employment transfer, your company may provide relocation services. Otherwise, you'll want to contact real estate professionals and mortgage lenders who can answer questions and provide information about available homes, home loans, and local market trends. You can also find information online at state, county, and local Websites. As with any major change in lifestyle, it's a good idea to consider what's important to you and your family and weigh the benefits and challenges associated with relocating to a new community.

Source
Money Magazine Best Places to Live

About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than fifteen years of experience in mortgage banking. She holds a Master's degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.