Today is National Cheeseburger Day, a day to celebrate one of America’s favorite comfort foods. Whether you like yours piled high with toppings, simple and classic, or sizzling fresh off the grill, there’s something about a cheeseburger that feels like home.

But what does a cheeseburger have to do with real estate? More than you might think!

🍔 Building the Perfect Burger = Building the Perfect Home

Just like crafting the perfect cheeseburger, finding or selling the right home is all about layers:

• The Bun (Foundation): Every great burger needs a strong base—just like every home needs a solid foundation.
• The Patty (Essentials): The heart of the burger, just like bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage are the core of a home.
• Cheese & Toppings (Personal Touches): These make the burger yours. In a home, it’s the updates, finishes, and style that reflect your personality.
• The Sauce (Community): A burger is only as good as the flavor that ties it together—just like a neighborhood can make or break the overall experience of living in a home.

🍟 Burgers, Backyards & Buyers

For many buyers in Minnesota, a backyard that’s perfect for grilling and gathering is at the top of the wishlist. Imagine flipping burgers on a summer evening while the kids play, the dog runs free, and neighbors stop by to say hello. That lifestyle—the cheeseburger on the patio life—is what homeownership is all about.

🏡 Your “Order Up” Moment

Just like ordering the perfect cheeseburger, buying or selling a home is all about options and customization. Some people want a quick, drive-through experience (move-in ready homes), while others want to build their own burger from scratch (new construction or fixer-uppers).

The good news? No matter what you’re craving, there’s a home out there that can fit your taste.

The Bottom Line

On this National Cheeseburger Day, whether you’re enjoying a classic at your favorite local spot or grilling one up in your own backyard, remember: the ingredients matter. And when it comes to real estate, I’m here to help you stack the layers just right so your next move feels like the perfect bite.

🍔 Happy National Cheeseburger Day!

Mortgage rates took another turn today, reminding us that the housing market is always moving. While today’s numbers show some improvement, what really matters is understanding the bigger picture, because rates are influenced by many variables that impact each borrower differently.

Why Rates Change

Rates move daily based on economic data, inflation, the Federal Reserve’s actions, and even global events. But beyond those broad market forces, your personal situation plays a big role too. Lenders consider things like:

• Credit score

• Down payment amount

• Loan program (Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo, etc.)

• Length of the loan (15-year vs. 30-year)

• Discount points or lender credits

This means two buyers shopping on the same day could walk away with very different rates.

What That Means for Buyers & Sellers

• For buyers: A slight shift in rates can change your monthly payment and what price range you qualify for.

• For homeowners: If you’re considering refinancing, the math depends not just on the headline rate but also on your loan balance, remaining term, and costs to close.

• For sellers: Lower borrowing costs can bring more buyers into the market—but affordability is still a moving target, which makes pricing and strategy especially important.

Today’s Market Snapshot

As of September 5, 2025, several popular loan products saw meaningful decreases:

• Conforming 30-Year Fixed rates are now at 6.125% (6.373% APR).

• Conforming 15-Year Fixed rates are down to 5.375% (5.766% APR).

• Jumbo 30-Year Fixed loans dipped to 6.000% (6.064% APR

• Government-backed programs also improved, with FHA 30-Year Fixed at 5.975% (7.004% APR) and VA 30-Year Fixed at 5.750% (6.171% APR

That’s just the starting point. Depending on your credit, down payment, and loan type, your rate could be higher or lower.

The Takeaway

Rates are shifting, and no two situations look exactly the same. That’s why it’s important to talk through the numbers with a trusted lender who can look at your unique profile and help you make the best decision—whether that’s buying, refinancing, or simply waiting for the right time.

📞 If you’d like to see how today’s market impacts your specific buying power or refinancing options, I’d be happy to connect you with the right resources.

Click this link for a more in-depth article:

Should I Wait for Rates to Drop or Act Now? | Guaranteed Rate Affinity

A Heartwarming Day at the Buffalo Senior Expo

Today was one of those days that fills your cup. I had the pleasure of volunteering at the Senior Expo at the Buffalo Civic Center, and what a wonderful day it was! I spent the day connecting with our amazing community, sharing updates about the exciting new location of the Buffalo Community Center. It was so rewarding to talk about the many programs, services, and opportunities our new space will offer for seniors and all generations to enjoy.

I also had the joy of chatting with some truly compassionate people from organizations like Cassia, Triniti, and St. Croix Hospice, as well as Buffalo Chiropractic. These conversations were a powerful reminder of how many caring professionals are out there, dedicated to supporting our community through all stages of life.

One important topic that came up throughout the day was estate planning and preparing for the future as we age. Learning about the many options for care—whether it’s hospice, home support, or navigating long-term planning—can feel overwhelming. But what I took away from today is that it’s never too early to start learning. When you’re informed, you can make thoughtful decisions ahead of time rather than during emotional or stressful moments.

When my own grandmother fell ill for the last time, it was incredibly emotional. While the decisions were in the hands of her children, seeing the support and care from an entire network of people with huge hearts brought a sense of peace to all of us. Had we known of these networks ahead of time, it could have made those difficult moments a little less overwhelming for everyone involved.

I left the expo with a full heart. I truly believe in the value of sharing what I’ve learned—the many resources and support systems available for seniors and their families. If I can help even one person feel more informed or prepared, I’d be honored to do so. Whether it’s connecting you to local services, answering questions, or simply listening, I’m here to help however I can.

In conclusion, today was a powerful reminder of the strength, compassion, and resources we have within our community. From the warm conversations to the valuable information shared, I’m more inspired than ever to continue learning, sharing, and supporting others. If you have questions or just want to talk through the options available for you or your loved ones, please reach out. Together, we can navigate the journey with care and confidence.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s a good time to buy or sell a home, history has a pretty clear answer.

Since 1941, U.S. home prices have gone up in 73 out of 81 years. That means the housing market has had a winning record of 73 wins – 7 losses – and 1 tie. That’s pretty hard to beat!

🥊 Who’s the Champ?

The champ is the housing market—and it’s proven to be one of the most reliable investments out there. Even through wars, recessions, and a pandemic, home values have stayed strong over time.

📊 The Proof is in the Chart

Check out this graph showing how home prices have changed each year since 1941:

Green bars show years when prices went up. Red bars show the few years when they went down. Only seven years saw prices drop, and one year was flat.

🧠 What This Means for You

If you’re thinking about buying a home or selling one, this history is a good reminder:
Real estate is a long game, and it almost always pays off.

Waiting for the “perfect” time might mean missing out. The truth is—there’s rarely a perfect time, but there’s almost always a smart time. And smart decisions are based on data like this.

Ready to talk real estate?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just thinking about your options, I’m here to help with real advice and real results.

🐣 The Perfect Pairing: Easter Recipes, Wine, and Real Estate

Spring has finally sprung—and with it comes one of the most heartwarming holidays of the year: Easter. Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, a big family dinner, or a quiet celebration at home, there’s something special about gathering around the table with loved ones and enjoying a beautiful meal.

But like any great meal, the secret to making it memorable lies in the perfect pairing—and not just on your plate. Keep reading for an Easter recipe that’s sure to impress, the ideal wine to serve with it, and how all of this ties into something else that requires just the right pairing: choosing the best real estate agent.

🍽️ Easter Favorite: Honey Glazed Ham with Roasted Spring Vegetables

This dish is a staple for many Easter tables. It’s tender, flavorful, and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness to make it feel festive.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8 lbs)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Assorted root vegetables (baby carrots, red potatoes, parsnips)
• Olive oil, salt, pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
3. In a small bowl, mix honey, mustard, brown sugar, cloves, and cinnamon. Brush half the glaze over the ham.
4. Roast the ham uncovered for about 1.5–2 hours, brushing with remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
5. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add to the pan during the final hour of cooking.
6. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the roasted vegetables.

🍷 Wine Pairing: Riesling

A slightly sweet Riesling is the ideal wine for this Easter ham. It balances the sweetness of the glaze and the saltiness of the ham beautifully, while its floral, citrusy notes complement the season perfectly.

Not a fan of sweet wines? Try a Pinot Noir if you prefer reds. The goal is a wine that enhances, not overpowers, your meal.

🏡 Pairing Matters in Real Estate Too

Much like choosing the right wine to pair with your Easter dinner, choosing the right real estate agent is essential to making your home-buying or selling experience smooth, enjoyable, and successful.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up, downsizing, or relocating, working with an agent who understands your goals and brings the right experience to the table can make all the difference.

A great agent will:

• Help you navigate the current market with confidence
• Provide expert guidance on pricing, marketing, and negotiation
• Handle every detail from showings to closing
• Be your advocate, advisor, and partner throughout the process

🍷🏡 It’s All About the Perfect Pairing

So this Easter, while you’re enjoying that delicious ham and sipping your favorite wine, take a moment to reflect on the other “pairings” in your life. If you’re considering a move this spring or summer, I’d love to be the agent you pair with.

With the right guidance, buying or selling a home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—it can feel as natural and enjoyable as the perfect meal.

Happy Easter!
Here’s to fresh starts, great food, and perfect pairings—on your plate and in your life.

Have you ever walked into a home and just felt it?

The space feels just right, the layout flows effortlessly, and you can picture morning coffee in the kitchen or cozy movie nights in the living room. That’s when you know — your brain, wallet, and heart are all on the same page. That’s the magic of finding the perfect home.

Open houses are more than just a weekend activity. They’re an opportunity to explore possibilities, envision your future, and compare what’s out there — all in real time. You’ll see how natural light dances through the windows, get a true feel for the neighborhood, and discover those little details that online listings simply can’t capture.

But let’s be honest — finding the right home is about more than checking boxes. Sure, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms matters. Yes, the budget needs to work. But the timing, the opportunity, and that unmistakable gut feeling are just as important. A great home feels like it was waiting for you.

If you’re planning to attend an open house, please let me know! I’d love to thank the host and ensure they know you’re represented. Of course, I’m always happy to accompany you or arrange a private showing for a more personal experience.

Whether you’re upgrading to make room for a growing family, downsizing to simplify life, or buying your very first place, having the right agent in your corner makes all the difference. I’m here to guide you, advocate for you, and navigate the process so every piece falls seamlessly into place.

So go ahead — walk through that open house. Ask questions. Open closets. Take notes. And when everything aligns — when your brain says it makes sense, your wallet says it’s doable, and your heart says this is it — you’ll know you’ve found the perfect match.

Let’s find the home that feels like home.
See you at the next open house!

I ran across a news segment recently on Fox 9 News about homeowners associations (HOAs) in Minnesota and thought I’d share:

If you’ve ever dealt with a homeowners association (HOA), you probably have a story to tell—and not always a good one. Across Minnesota, homeowners have voiced frustrations over HOA rules, fees, and foreclosure threats. Now, lawmakers are stepping in to make some changes.

A bipartisan task force has put together 41 recommendations aimed at improving how HOAs operate. These proposals focus on limiting foreclosures, preventing conflicts of interest, and increasing transparency—all common pain points for homeowners.

Considering that 82% of new homes are part of an HOA, these reforms could have a major impact statewide. Several bills have already been introduced to bring these recommendations to life, signaling a big shift in how HOAs are governed in Minnesota.

One thing buyers should keep in mind: Most HOAs in Minnesota (though not all—there are exceptions!) are required to provide a contingent 10-day statutory review window. This allows buyers to thoroughly review the Common Interest Community (CIC) documents before moving forward with their purchase. This is a critical step that buyers should take seriously! Understanding the HOA’s rules, financials, and policies upfront can prevent surprises down the road.

It’s clear that the conversation around HOA reform isn’t going away anytime soon. If you’re a homeowner dealing with HOA challenges, now’s the time to stay informed and engaged as these legislative efforts unfold.

I also wanted to  included this fun purple flower pot recipe for those of you who might have graduates with purple school colors—such a simple and festive touch to celebrate their big day!

4 Home Upgrades That Boost Value & Appeal

If you’re thinking about making improvements to your home, these four key upgrades can enhance its look, functionality, and resale value. Plus, a clean, fresh home always sells better than a cluttered one with lingering pet smells!

🔹 Kitchen Update – A fresh, modern kitchen with high-quality appliances, stylish countertops, and plenty of storage makes a huge impact. Buyers love a well-designed space that feels open and updated!

🔹 Bathroom Refresh – Transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat with sleek fixtures, a soaking tub, and a beautiful shower. An updated bathroom not only adds comfort but also increases your home’s value.

🔹 Curb Appeal – First impressions matter! A little landscaping, fresh paint, a well-maintained lawn, and updated outdoor lighting make your home more inviting from the start.

🔹 Finished Basement – Maximize your space by turning your basement into a cozy family room, home office, or guest suite. A functional lower level adds versatility and attracts buyers.

💡 Bonus Tip: No matter how many upgrades you make, a clean and well-maintained home will always stand out. Decluttering, deep cleaning, and eliminating pet odors can make a world of difference when selling your home!

Thinking about selling or just want to make smart upgrades? I’d love to tour your home and offer suggestions—no strings attached! Whether you’re planning to sell now or later, having a plan in place can help you get the most out of your investment. Let’s chat! 🚪🏡✨

A HUGE Thank You! 🙌

A massive thank you to everyone who donated and supported the Polar Plunge—it was a huge success! This year was a completely different experience jumping into the frozen lake versus running in like we had to do last year. Your generosity and encouragement mean so much, and I’m grateful for all the support in making this event such a great one! 🥶❄️💙

Welcome to My Real Estate Blog!

Hello and welcome! I’m Tammy Johnson, a dedicated real estate agent with a passion for helping people of all ages and backgrounds find their perfect home. Whether you’re buying your first home, searching for more space, or looking to downsize, I’m here to guide you through every step with honesty, professionalism, and care.

More Than Just Buying and Selling—It’s About Building Dreams

Real estate isn’t just about transactions; it’s about creating lasting relationships, strengthening communities, and helping people achieve their dreams. My goal is to make your home-buying or selling experience as smooth and stress-free as possible while providing expert guidance and top-notch service.

As a lifelong member of the Buffalo, MN community, I know the importance of serving others and making a difference. Whether you’re new to the area or have called it home for years, I’m committed to helping you navigate the ever-changing real estate market with confidence.

Beyond Real Estate—Community, Family & Local Favorites

In addition to real estate insights, I’ll also be sharing glimpses of my life, including my family, favorite local spots, and hidden gems in our community. From must-visit restaurants to can’t-miss events, my goal is to help you feel at home in every way possible.

Speaking of community, I’m excited to be participating in the Polar Plunge in Buffalo, MN on March 8th! This incredible event supports a great cause, and I would love your support. Click the link to donate and cheer me on! Polar Plunge-Donate Here

Stay Connected!

Follow my blog for market updates, home-buying tips, and real estate insights to help you make informed decisions. If you have any questions or are ready to start your journey, visit TammyJohnsonRealtor.com or reach out anytime—I’d love to help!

Thank you for stopping by—I look forward to being part of your real estate journey!

“Counting down the days until we meet our third grandson! Maddie is getting induced next week, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome this little blessing into the world! #GrandbabyOnTheWay #ExcitedForBaby #BlessedGrandparents”