Waconia, MN April 2024

Elevate Your Image!

In a world where first impressions matter more than ever, your image speaks volumes.

Don't underestimate the power of a great headshot. Elevate your image and take your professional presence to the next level with a professional headshot session today!

The Investment Issue

Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things, such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health, with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. We can serve the commu nity through volunteerism and investment in future generations. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meet long-term financial goals, and secure retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact not only on ourselves but also on the people closest to us.

As I get older, priorities have changed. I used to care about the car I drove. My Passat gets me from point A to point B just fine right now. Our house used to be bigger, but with fewer kids at home and mostly dogs now, we downsized a bit in our move slightly west to Minnetrista. I know the material things matter less, and the experiences and relationships I have matter more. I invest in family, friends, my work, and my faith. What are you investing in?

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community, and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is made with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances, and with those we love.

We head to Crown College in Saint Bonifacius for some higher education on how they’re investing in their students, sit down with Martin Cole at Thrivent Freedom Financial Group of Waconia to help plan our financial future (and why it’s never too late to start!), we learn which pieces to invest in for a timeless wardrobe, and expert tips from Heather Reichenberger of RE/MAX Results if you’re interested in getting into the rental property game. Plus, be sure not to miss Jen's latest "Life Minded" column: A Cut Above.

See you around town in Waconia City Lifestyle!

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WACONIA

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

MARKET

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, Amanda Wagner, and Jen Fortner

Maria Claire Photography April

city scene

1-7: The Waconia DandyLions hosted their annual Frozen Fairway Open where participants had a great time playing nine holes of golf, hitting tennis balls with their own “club” of choice. The Jason Paulson Band performed and guests enjoyed raffles, food, and drinks. All profits went to two great causes: Southern Valley Alliance and The Waconia DandyLions. Photography by Maria Claire Photography

business monthly

Support the Ridgeview Foundation at Tastes, Tunes & Taps

What’s better than a night out with food, drinks, and fun entertainment? Knowing you’re making a difference at the same time! Ridgeview Foundation’s 2nd Annual Tastes, Tunes & Taps event will be held on Friday, April 26th at Inspired Technologies, Inc. in Le Sueur. Duelly Noted, an interactive dueling piano show, will perform, along with delicious food to sample and a cash bar. This event sells out so get your tickets now! https://www.classy.org/event/ 2024-tastes-tunes-and-taps/e521860

Photography by Ridgeview Foundation

Scan to read more

Hire Clean Cut Lawn Care to Care For Your Lawn

The sun is out and that’s your cue to spruce up your lawn - after the winter, it deserves it! Clean Cut Lawn Care, an owner-operated business that began in 2006 as a lawn mowing company and has steadily grown, is ready for the job! A sampling of the work they do this time of year includes dethatching, mowing, and weed control. Visit https://www.cleancutmn.com/ to learn more and to get on their schedule.

Scan to read more

Your Boat Club's Spring Auction Is On Now!

Your Boat Club’s Spring Auction is scheduled for April 5th – 21st and will feature 35 pontoons, ski boats, and fishing boats from premium brands like Bennington, Glastron, and Lund. You can shop and bid right from your phone or computer on their online bidding website https://yourboatclub. com/buy-a-boat or, if you’d like to see all the meticulously maintained boats in person, they’ll be at Your Boat Club Lake Minnetonka — Smith’s Bay, 1955 Shoreline Drive, Orono, MN.

Photography by Your Boat Club

Scan to read more

Want to be featured?

Investing in Education

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

CROWN COLLEGE’S COMMITMENT TO ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

““This holistic approach to education allows Crown to stand out in a crowded educational industry.”

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, where trends shift like the wind, institutions must adapt swiftly to remain meaningful and impactful. Crown College, located in rural Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, finds itself not only navigating these trends but thriving amidst them.

Imagine stepping onto its campus, where every corner resonates with the hum of eager minds, and every hallway whispers the promise of transformative education. Here, against the backdrop of a changing world, Crown College is doubling down on being exactly who they say they are: a boldly Christian college invested in academic excellence and providing a lifelong authentic community for students, faculty, employees, and alumni.

Crown’s new president, Dr. Andrew Denton, who started in July 2021, affirms, “As a boldly Christian College, we have the unique ability to invest in the lives of our students through faith-integrated academics, modern in-person and online classrooms, and spiritual formation. I am confident this holistic approach to education allows Crown to stand out in a crowded educational industry.”

In the fall of 2023, Crown welcomed 555 students, growing from 450 students in 2019. Crown’s continued growth is a testament to the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, investment in their students, and extensive programs, including health and science degrees, business management, criminal justice, and so many more. And Crown is looking ahead, aiming to continue to grow while ensuring the college’s ability to continually accommodate and nurture its expanding community.

Part of that expanding community includes students from across the globe, enrolling students from Vietnam, Africa, China, and Central America. Crown also offers high school students opportunities through the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option

(PSEO) and homeschool cooperatives, underscoring their commitment to investing in the next generation of students.

Recognizing shifting preferences towards online learning, Crown College not only offers on-campus programs on its 212-acre grounds but also offers online undergraduate and graduate programs, providing a genuine, practical approach to applying Christian perspectives to real-world vocational training. Dr. Dee McDonald, vice president of enrollment, underscores the pivotal role of education in shaping outcomes, instilling a sense of purpose, and nurturing the holistic development of individuals.

“Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about shaping character, fostering critical thinking, and preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of our world with resilience and purpose,” says Dr. McDonald.

At the heart of Crown College’s educational philosophy lies a strong commitment to holistic growth and lifelong learning. Dr. McDonald emphasizes the transformative power of a faith-integrated curriculum in cultivating not only academic prowess but also essential soft skills and personal spiritual formation. By fostering an environment of authentic community and connections that transcend the classroom, Crown College lays the foundation for lifelong relationships and personal growth.

The recent announcement of a major renovation project underscores Crown College’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student-centricity. With two generous contributions of $500,000 from anonymous donors, Crown College embarks on a transformative journey to revitalize its East Wing classrooms. This ambitious endeavor, slated for completion by August 2024, epitomizes the college’s dedication to providing state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the teaching and learning experience.

CONTINUED >

Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about shaping character, fostering critical thinking, and preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of our world.

President Andrew Denton and Dr. Dee McDonald

President Denton reaffirms Crown College’s commitment to academic excellence, citing the renovated classrooms as an important component to advance student and faculty achievement. The East Wing project, coupled with previous facility investments, including SPBI Hall, a new residence hall named after the college’s former name, Saint Paul Bible Institute, totaled $18 million over two years and showcases Crown College’s proactive approach to infrastructure development without raising tuition.

“These renovated classrooms will allow our students and faculty to engage with class content in new and innovative ways. Crown College is committed to academic excellence, and these significant donations

and renovated classrooms will advance our ability to strengthen our student and faculty academic achievement,” says President Denton.

Charting a course as the Midwest’s boldly Christian College by providing a biblically based education for Christian leadership in the Christian and Missionary Alliance, the church-at-large, and the world, the vision for the institution is clear. Rooted in the belief that education transcends boundaries and empowers individuals to realize their full potential, Crown College is investing in its students and the future to shape generations of leaders, thinkers, and trailblazers poised to make a profound impact in the world.

Learn more: https://www.crown.edu/

What’s New in Waconia

INTRODUCING MOLLY KRINHOP, THE NEW OWNER AND VISIONARY OF ST. BONI BISTRO

Products of the 80s and those younger who appreciate the classics are familiar with the iconic series Cheers. The one where everyone yells, “Norm!” as the quippy regular walks in and takes a seat on his well-worn bar stool. The catchy opening theme goes, “Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.” It’s hard not to reflect on Molly Krinhop’s journey from wine merchant to restaurant owner and her vision for the future without recalling these warm and welcoming words. “I want to make the Bistro a culinary habit instead of a destination. I want regular customers to come in and become friends who walk in to say hello and ask what bottle is open and what’s new on the stove.” Perhaps the makings of another meaningful and unforgettable theme song.

“Sometimes life surprises you in the best of ways,” is how Molly sums up the events leading up to her becoming the newest owner of St. Boni Bistro. During her career selling wine, she was in regular contact with Debby HartmanWrolson, the Bistro’s previous owner. They hit it off from the start, and when Debby later announced that she was looking to retire, “I shot her a text and said, we need to talk!” Six months later, Molly was a proud restaurant owner, a dream she’d been working towards for 30 years.

Molly was initially drawn to the area by the beauty she experienced on her drives out west, which were always amplified by the horse farm she’d pass. The exercise always was, and still is, taking a deep breath, whispering a little hello to the equine beauties, and being on her way. “I grew up and have lived in Minneapolis most of my life, and it’ll

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

always have my heart, but the charm of the space and this town completely sucked me in.” The community’s warm embrace also won her over and didn’t surprise her in the least. “I was 150% correct about this community. Everyone has been extremely generous, kind, and helpful. At the end of the day, my heart is very full.”

Coming from generations of strong females who raised her to show grace and help others, going out of her way to assist others is in her blood, and Molly avows that that will never change. During the pandemic, she was among the restaurant folks who were at a loss; in response, they found ways to help local farmers. When there were riots in Minneapolis, protecting local businesses and neighbors was an everyday reality. So, it’ll come as no surprise that in her short time of owning the Bistro, Molly has already found numerous ways to reach out.

This quaint brick-red gem, nestled in thriving St. Bonifacius, is filled with tasty aromas and quaint décor, but it’s also full of local products, and the plan is to add even more. Molly has been busy connecting with local business owners in hopes of partnering, and she’s deeply passionate about serving homegrown and sustainable products. With local lamb, local grass-fed beef, and produce from Gale Woods Farm, her aspirational menu is just beginning. Next up on her visionary lineup are, just to name a few, a screened-in back patio, a to-go window, fire pits, and guest chef appearances.

“Being present, wearing a smile, creating a wonderful experience, and offering only the best quality of service, food, and beverage is the only way I know how to be.”

“The charm of the space and this town completely sucked me in. I was 150% correct about this community. Everyone has been extremely generous, kind, and helpful. At the end of the day, my heart is very full.”

While all these additions will excite even the most enthusiastic, perhaps the most endearing way Molly invests in the community she now works in and someday hopes to live in is with her welcoming smile and her hands-on approach to serving. “Being present, wearing a smile, creating a wonderful experience, and offering only the best quality of service, food, and beverage is the only way I know how to be.” Molly carries this lighthearted, thoughtful presence with her in everything she does. She recently became a first-time aunt and loves spending time with her partner, Brad, and their rescued pitbull, Horse. She and Brad enjoy bowling together, taking yearly trips to Mexico, and hitting the open road on their Harleys.

When you’re craving Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Toast (one of Molly’s favorites) or an Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte (a certain writer’s favorite), stop by St. Boni Bistro, pull up a chair, and enjoy. The food is fresh, the air is inviting, and you had better believe Molly will always be glad you came. https://stbonibistro.com/

Spring/Fall Clean ups | Weekly Mowing | Fertilizer/Weed Control | Landscape bed maintenance/mulching Tree/Shrub Trimming | Lawn Dethatching/Aerations | Irrigation System Start-up/Blow-outs

952.715.1273 | waconialandscapingco.com | Justin@waconialandscapingco.com

The Road to Financial Freedom

THRIVENT FREEDOM FINANCIAL GROUP SHARES HOW TO TAKE THE FIRST STEPS TO INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE

ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN

It’s never too late to start.

That’s what Martin Cole at Thrivent Freedom Financial Group of Waconia says. As a certified financial planner, Martin knows how important it is to begin saving for the future, no matter how small the amount.

Nearly 70% of Americans don’t feel they’re on track with their retirement accounts, according to a September 2023 article from U.S. News and World Report. But how do you know how much is enough for retirement? A financial planner can help you figure that out.

“I can see if a person is on track to achieve a successful retirement,” Martin says. “I can help create a financial plan that can help a person stay focused on shortand long-term financial goals.”

Here are some of the basics that Martin recommends to get started on the road to a financially stable future.

INVESTING

Martin says a good rule of thumb is to invest 10-15% of income. If that’s not possible, invest as much as you can and build on it over time.

“As more money becomes available, the invested amounts can increase over time,”

Martin says. “It’s best to get started, even if the amount is small. Getting started helps create momentum and can help accumulate funds over time.”

For example, a mutual fund can be started with as little as $50 per month. If you don’t want to start with a monthly investment, an IRA can be set up with a lump sum of $1,000.

These little steps can add up. If your employer offers a 401k, Martin says to invest enough to ensure you receive their maximum match amount. Since the contributions of a 401k are typically deducted from your paycheck, it’s an easy way to put money away without thinking about it. Martin suggests also working with a financial planner who provides you with more investment options and can look at tax efficiency to minimize taxes over time.

SAVING

Martin says to be intentional with how money is spent. “Spending on a frivolous item means those funds aren’t being applied toward your financial goals. Have a budget and analyze what’s most important.”

So, how do you get started with a budget? Martin suggests setting financial goals and prioritizing spending.

CONTINUED >

“It’s best to get started, even if the amount is small. Getting started helps create momentum and can help accumulate funds over time.”

— MARTIN COLE

“If a purchase can’t be paid in full, don’t put it on a credit card,” Martin advises. “The interest costs can greatly increase the price of the item.” Martin also recommends setting aside three to six months of income to help when unplanned emergency expenses happen so you don’t have to rely on a credit card or your retirement funds.

DEBT

“There’s good and bad debt,” Martin says. “Good debt can be a mortgage, and a home usually increases in value over time. Bad debt is credit card debt that often has high-interest rates.” Martin recommends not taking on mortgage payments that are more than 25-35% of income and paying credit card balances in full every month.

RETIREMENT

“As a person gets closer to retirement, it’s important to create a strategy to generate lifelong, inflation-adjusted income,” Martin explains. He suggests taking into consideration what you’re comfortable

with and making sure your investments aren’t too aggressive or conservative.

Regarding saving for kids’ college, Martin recommends a balanced approach.

“It’s one of the best gifts you can give to your kids, but it’s important not to neglect your own retirement,” Martin says. “Your child can borrow for college, but you can’t borrow for retirement.” Martin can help clients when looking at financial aid for education because some investments can impact the amount of aid received.

WHERE TO BEGIN

Set up an appointment with Martin at his office in downtown Waconia. You can have a simple transactional service or get more comprehensive financial planning. Martin can go over all of your options and goals to help meet your money goals. His team can help with various funds, stocks, bonds, annuities, and insurance, including Medicare. Connect with Martin at 952-9997686 or email him at martin.cole@thrivent. com. Remember, it’s never too late to start!

CLOSET Currency

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

There are many investments in life you can seek to enhance your future; some involve a hefty sum of money and planning, and others are executed on a smaller scale with a little more flexibility and a lot less cash. When you invest in your home, you’re enhancing its resale value and your enjoyment; if you decide to back a small business, you’re realizing a dream or hoping for future returns, and of course, putting your funds towards higher education provides an opportunity, paths to professional success, and empowerment. Most of us can agree that these ventures are a smart use of resources and capital for the long term, but adding a smaller ongoing financial commitment to your portfolio is also a smart move. One where you see the

ELEECE

PINK OF THE STASH SHARES HER WISDOM ON WHY ENHANCING YOUR WARDROBE IS A FORM OF SELFINVESTMENT AND HOW TO GO ABOUT IT.

impact almost instantly. One that enables you to look and feel your best, takes the guesswork out of your busy mornings, and might require a little self-reflection. We’re talking about building a versatile wardrobe of high-quality, timeless pieces that are easily mix and matchable to suit any occasion. And we’re talking to Eleece Pink, owner of The Stash of Waconia and fashion aficionado, to guide us through the process.

A closet full of great multi-functional pieces might seem like a minor investment, but when you think about it, the impact can be huge. It can minimize your carbon footprint, boost your confidence, and shorten your to-do list, giving you back precious time in your day. Sound appealing? Let’s get started! Eleece’s first tip is to find a blazer with a pop of color, not just the usual black or tan, and to find one that fits you not just okay but exceptionally. If you’re an overachiever, select one with added texture or a subtle print. Another essential investment is a denim jacket. “It is one quintessential piece everyone should have in their closet to dress up or down. They’ve come a long way from the stiff, boxy style they once were,” she shares. She adds that it’s so much easier now to find one that will flatter any figure, and most have added stretch, which makes them an easy and comfortable option. But the mother of all staples is a classic black or white tee. And Eleece’s rule of thumb, repeat after me, is “When I find the one, the perfect tee for me, I will buy two!”

The key to finding these elevated staples in their forever closet with you is to identify the ones that accentuate your finest features in the colors that are most suitable for you. “These pieces are the ones that can stay in your closet for years to come.” Is your body shape considered an hourglass, apple, pear, rectangle, inverted triangle, or diamond? Are you a winter, spring, summer, or fall when it comes to colors that complement your natural skin tone? If you need help identifying your place in these classifications, the stylish staff at The Stash are always willing to help, and numerous online resources can also show you how it’s done. When you’re out hunting down those high-quality pieces, Eleece says it’s more about fabrication than

CONTINUED >

brand, and she suggests that instead of looking at an item’s label, look for the workmanship in the garment’s finishes. Is it lined? Are the seams and edges finished well? And here’s another pro tip from today’s ‘Investing in Style’ tutorial by one of the snazziest dressers in Waconia: turn the garment inside out and become a textile detective! Are the stitches even? Are there excessive loose threads? Uncovering these details will help guide your decisions on whether the piece is worth the investment.

Now, to put all your hard work to use! One fun fashion hack that The Stash team goes back to time and again is reaching for a classic piece you consider your style but that has a twist, then easily elevating it from laid-back to luxe with a few minor tweaks. Eleece will wear satin joggers with her perfect tee (remember, she has at least two!), along with a denim jacket and sneakers for a day at the store. For date night, the joggers are instantly fancified with a tucked-in collared button-up, heels, and amazing accent jewelry.

For more tips and to find an elevated investment piece or two that is right for you, stop by The Stash of Waconia. There’s never a wrong time to invest in yourself and your future. Whether you’re buying stocks for financial gain or adding those classic ballet flats to your shoe collection, upping your wardrobe game, you’re bettering yourself, and that’s just good business.

https://www.thestashstyle.com/

I recently purchased a knife that I’m very excited about. This is a sign of becoming firmly middle-aged. When I was twenty-five years old, I had cheap knives and thought people who got enthusiastic about knives or lamps or

A CUT ABOVE

pillows were sad and needed to get out more. But I’m not sad and I don’t want to get out at all. I’m excited about my knife, and I’m quite proud of my purchase.

Not to brag…but it’s a Shun Premier 5.5” Nakiri. It’s like a trophy wife but for the kitchen, making all other utensils seem plain. I want to show it off to friends and neighbors. I can now slice limes so thin you’d be able

Life Minded

to read these words through the flesh. I have no idea why you would ever want to - but it would be possible.

If high style is marked by a mixture of expensive and bargain finds, then my kitchen drawers are full of the highest style. I have a can opener from 1995 that is cornflower blue because my kitchen was blue in 1995, and I must have thought my gadgets must match the hideous wallpaper border. It still works. It was less than $2. My mom gifted me a set of Peugeot salt and pepper grinders last year. They were much more than $2 and are works of art. I have two Chinese spider strainers that I’ve had for over ten years that were worth every dime. But I’ve blown through many, many spatulas, treating them as if they were single-use paper towels. And I’ve loved, used, and broken four French presses. Not everything lasts.

I am now quite critical when I assess wedding registries. These sweet lambs register for some of the dumbest things. I know because that is exactly what we did, and I know what they can’t possibly know yet. They aren’t

going to have 16 people over for margaritas very often, but… a quality wetdry vac? That thing will become their best friend. So as I’m selecting gifts, I try to choose something desired, but also something that is practical.

Worth it: Good pans but not a set of 12. Who has room for that? A cast iron skillet. A beautiful wooden salad bowl. Quality knives. Soft towels. A Kitchen Aid mixer.

Not worth it:  Appliances that only do one thing. Dishes that have to be hand washed. Dishes that can’t go in the microwave. Dishes that don’t fit in a dishwasher. (Yes, I had some of those.) Sheets that cost more than a car payment. White throw blankets. A beautiful white throw is so pretty in a photo. But these young people will make the mistake of having friends or having children, and someone will use that white faux fur blanket to mop up a root beer float.

We used to heed advice on such household investments from experts. Martha Stewart could recommend a Dutch oven or a cutting board, and she appears to know her way around

a kitchen. Christopher Kimball, in his test kitchen, could warn against gimmick gadgets. Ina Garten. Julia Child. Gordon Ramsay. Our parents. All of these experts were experts. Now my kids say things like, “I saw this on TikTok, so I bought one.”  Help. Me. Because now we own a chopper slicer dicer thing with 20 impossible-to-wash parts because some bonehead in a dank basement said it’s trending.

And it is trending, but that doesn’t mean it’s good. Also, nobody should be eating a stir fry cooked in a dorm room under a ring light. Even if it was cooked by someone attractive with a lot of followers. I’m just genuinely delighted when things work. It’s the little things. And this knife works like a dream.

You would think this missive is sponsored by the knife company. It isn’t. But it is sheer joy to have invested in something of the highest quality. It’s looking like I’m still on the hook for slicing vegetables for this household for a while and it will be nice to do so in style.

I really must line item this beauty in my will. My kids will have to rotate custody.

Minded

COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER

Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Navigating the Road to Investment Properties

EXPERT ADVICE FROM HEATHER REICHENBERGER OF RE/MAX RESULTS

Not all home purchases are created equal, and neither are the needs or wants of buyers. It’s not on everyone’s dream list to own a vacation home on the beach adorned with sea foam-colored furniture and collected seashells (but for the life of us, we can’t imagine why!) Some opt for having a retirement retreat ready and waiting for them once their kids fly the nest, and purchasing a rental property to generate an additional income stream or as a long-range financial strategy might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The buying world is an ever-evolving landscape, and in such a dynamic environment, it never hurts to gather more information. That’s why we tapped into the expertise of Heather Reichenberger, RE/MAX Results Realtor, to provide insight into the nuances of property investments.

“We also want to learn if the area they’re looking at will bring them the ROI (return on investment) they need for the investment to make sense for them.”

WHAT ARE SOME KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN DECIDING TO INVEST IN A PROPERTY?

First, it depends on what type of investment the client is looking for. Do they want a rental property or a house flip they plan to resell after fixing it up? Each client is unique and has different comfort levels of what they can take on. I work with very experienced investment buyers looking for properties to flip, some newer flippers, and clients who are just looking to build their portfolio of rental properties. To find the right property, I help determine each client’s needs, preferred location, and goals. We also want to learn if the area they’re looking at will bring them the ROI (return on investment) they need for the investment to make sense for them.

WHAT ARE SOME POTENTIAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE, AND HOW CAN INVESTORS MITIGATE THEM?

There are always unknowns when you buy any property, especially when remodeling is involved. For example, opening walls can lead to more work, which leads to unexpected costs. The key is to have an inspector or contractor involved, or perhaps even the client having knowledge of the construction industry, to make sure they know what they’re getting into. It’s also important to have a backup plan if something changes in the scope of the work.

CONTINUED >

“My role as the client’s agent is to assist them in finding properties that have the potential for what they’re looking for, a house flip or rental property.”

HOW DOES PURCHASING A RENTAL PROPERTY DIFFER FROM BUYING A PRIMARY RESIDENCE?

They are pretty similar as far as the purchasing process goes unless you’re getting into multi-unit properties (more than four), which are then considered commercial, and that’s something entirely different.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THIS PROCESS, AND HOW DO YOU ASSIST YOUR CLIENTS IF THEY SHOW INTEREST IN PURCHASING AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY?

My role as the client’s agent is to assist them in finding properties that have the potential for what they’re looking for, a house flip or rental property. I also help them find properties that fulfill their criteria, such as price, neighborhood, etc. As an agent with RE/MAX Results, I have a broad network with over 1300 agents throughout the metro and its suburbs, so I’m quickly informed when new listings hit the market, which I can then share with my clients. Once they have a property under contract, I can also provide an extensive vendor and contractor list if the client plans to fix up the property and wants recommendations.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATE OF RENTAL PROPERTIES?

With the interest rates rising to 8% last fall and into winter, buying in general has slowed down. But during that time, since there wasn’t a lot of competition and not as many multiple-buyer situations, it turned into a great opportunity for some. Investors looking to build their portfolio were smart to keep up their search because they may now have a great flip to sell. Now that the rates have gone down, this could lead to more potential gain on the sale of that property in a spring market.

If you’d like to connect with Heather and learn more, you can find her at https://heathersresults.com/

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 6TH

Maple Syrup Festival

Baylor Regional Park | 10:00 AM

Tap into the fun and head to Baylor Regional Park for a sweet time! Experience the entire maple syruping process, from tapping the tree to boiling down the syrup and learn about its ties to Minnesota history. Then taste test the final product with their delicious Maple Syrup Brunch, including pancakes, bacon, oatmeal, coffee, and ice cream! Cost is $10. Children 2 and under are free.

APRIL 7TH

Kids Yoga at the Arb

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 11:00 AM

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum hosts Kids Yoga classes designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of your children! Each dynamic and fun-filled session incorporates a blend of breathwork, meditation, movement, rest, games, and laughter, all while exploring the wonderful world of yoga. Children ages 15 and under are free, but do require an adult to attend with them. Adults pay the regular Yoga in the Gardens rate.

APRIL 13TH

Victoria Home Show

Victoria Recreation Center | 10:00 AM

From remodeling and decks to landscaping, bathrooms, and everything in-between, you’ll find what you’re looking for at the Victoria Home Show! Hosted each spring, the Victoria Home Show is your one-stop shop for help with any home improvement project. The event is free to attend with giveaways all day, every hour, on the hour and the first 100 attendees will receive a goodie bag.

APRIL 13TH

Waconia Putting Challenge

Downtown Waconia | 11:00 AM

The Waconia Putting Challenge is back! Start practicing your swing and get ready for a day of fun, visiting local participating businesses each with their own unique putting green. Sign up will be at 11am with the finale taking place at the Legion at 7pm. The event is 21+. Whichever participating business you register at is where you'll begin the challenge!

APRIL 13TH

Waconia Wine Hop

Schram Vineyards, Parley Lake Winery, and Sovereign Estate | 12:00 PM

Hop your way around Waconia Wine Country for a very special spring tasting at three award-winning wineries: Schram Vineyards, Parley Lake Winery, and Sovereign Estate!  Each winery will offer a wine tasting of four different wines, special wine deals or music, and food. Check-in begins at 12pm. Last check-in time available is 4PM. $15 tasting fee charged at the door at each winery.

APRIL 14TH

Charcuterie Boarding School Level One

Back Channel Brewing Co. | 11:00 AM

Back Channel Brewing hosts Dawn of From the Diner for her Charcuterie Boarding School Level One Course! You'll learn the art of building your own charcuterie board, including the basics of food selection, folding salami, cheese cutting, and more. Included is charcuterie, artisan cheese and accoutrements, jam jar, scannable QR code with class outline, a small gift, and a glass of beer/wine.

CROWN COLLEGE CHOIR

Friday, April 26, 7:00 PM FREE EVENT

Spring Concert Dr. Thabe Matsebatlela

No tickets are needed

GUEST CONDUCTOR DIRECTOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO CHORISTERS POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

Dr. Matsebatlela will be joining the choir and leading in a setting of the Lord's Prayer by South African composer, S. J. Khosa.

Financial Group, CA Insurance 4292261.

Reserve your spot.

RSVP to Martin Cole at 952-999-7686, martin.cole@thrivent.com.

Light refreshments will be served.

No products will be sold.

Tuesday, April 2, 2024 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Paradise Commons 8170 Paradise Lane Waconia, MN

27878A R10-23

PSEO | On-Campus | Online | Graduate | Accelerated crown.edu

Your Boat Club: We boating! are

These late-model, meticulously maintained fishing boats, ski boats, and pontoons have served our members well. Most of our boats have been in service for only three years and are regularly detailed and refurbished. It is simply time to replace them with brand-new models and find them a new home!

The average age of our fleet is 1.5 years old- meaning our members- and you- get to experience the newest boats in the market. Because our boats are in service, they are cared for better than the average boat.

Especially after the initial depreciation, boats tend to hold their value extremely well. If you are considering buying a boat, why not eliminate the risk of overpaying and save all of that expense?

When it comes to your family’s next great adventure, you can trust Your Boat Club. With decades of experience and an unmatched love for boating, you can rely on us. We are boating! Find out more at www.YourBoatClub.com/buy-a-boat today!