<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <channel>
        <atom:link href="https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/</link>
        <description>LATEST News and Tips for buying or selling your Home in Brookings, SD and surrounding areas. </description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house-at-508-e-wye-mesa-brookings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house-at-508-e-wye-mesa-brookings.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Open House at 508 E Wye Mesa, Brookings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



508 E Wye Mesa, Brookings, SD




Open House











3D Virtual Tour


Lifestyle Video


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 3 BEDROOMS   2 BATHROOMS 


WYE not look at this mobile home? Located in the highly desirable Western Estates Mobile Home Park, 508 E Wye Mesa sits in a unique neighborhood layout that feels more like a traditional home development than a mobile home community. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers over 1,200 sq. ft. of comfortable living space and a welcoming layout to enjoy. Residents appreciate the pet-friendly environment, neighborhood park area, and scenic pond nearby. You'll also love being just minutes from the bike trails, Dakota Nature Park, and the Outdoor Adventure Center, with quick and easy access to Interstate 29 for commuting. BONUS: Sellers will pay first months lot rent of $675 





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:57:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/before-you-fall-in-love-with-a-house-do-this-first.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/before-you-fall-in-love-with-a-house-do-this-first.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Before You Fall in Love with a House, Do This First.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
 





Be honest. Have you started looking at homes online yet? If you have, it’s already time to get pre-approved. Because here’s what not enough people know.


If buying a home is on your radar – even if it’s more of a someday plan than a right now plan – you don’t want to wait until later on in the process to tackle this step.


No matter what you’ve heard, pre-approval isn’t about commitment. It’s about clarity.


And here are the two big ways pre-approval sets you up for success. 


You Know Your Numbers Up Front 


During the pre-approval process, a lender will walk through your finances and tell you what you can borrow based on your income, debts, credit score, and more. And once you have that number, your search becomes a lot more focused.


With a mortgage pre-approval, you know what you can borrow, so it’s easier to figure out your ideal price point, and what you can actually afford. And that clarity is key.


Because if you just start browsing online and just guess at your price point, you run the risk of falling for a house that’s outside of your price range – or missing out on ones that aren’t.


You want this number to be clearly defined before your search. Here’s why.


You Can Move Quickly When You Find the One


This is how a lot of home searches go today. You scroll through listings just to see what’s out there, and then it happens. You fall in love with something you’ve seen online.


If you’re already pre-approved? You’re probably in great shape.


But if you’re not…


Instead of being able to jump on that house and quickly make an offer, you have to scramble to get a lender, gather the financial documents, and then submit the necessary pre-approval paperwork first. And while you’re waiting to hear back from your lender, someone else who’s more prepared could beat you to the house. As Bankrate explains:


“The best time to get a mortgage preapproval is before you start looking for a home. If you find a home you love but don’t have a preapproval in hand, you likely won’t have time to get preapproved before you need to make an offer . . .”


And that’s avoidable, with the right prep.


Because while you can’t control when the right home shows up, you can be ready for it. Think of it like showing up to the starting line with your shoes tied and your warm-up done – while everyone else is still looking for parking.


It’s not about rushing your timeline. It’s about removing the delay between finding the right home and being able to move on it.


One Thing You Need To Know About Pre-Approvals


Speaking of timing, pre-approvals do have an expiration date. So, be sure to ask your lender how long it’s good for. The Mortgage Reports explains:


“Mortgage preapproval letters are typically valid for anywhere from 30 to 90 days. However, a preapproval can be updated and extended if the lender re-checks your information.”


Doing the right prep and knowing this information can make the whole process a lot smoother.


You don’t have to be ready to buy to be ready to buy.


Getting pre-approved doesn’t mean you’re committing to buy right now. It just means you’ve taken a step to understand your numbers. And when a home catches your attention, you’re prepped and good to go.


Bottom Line


Ask yourself this: if your perfect home popped up tomorrow, would you be ready to make a move?


If the answer is no and you want to buy, it may be time to get pre-approved. You don’t feel behind before your search even officially kicks off.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 07:56:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/304-3rd-st-s-brandt---open-house.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/304-3rd-st-s-brandt---open-house.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>304 3rd St S, Brandt - Open House</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



304 3rd St S, Brandt, SD




Open House











Lifestyle Video


3D Virtual Tour


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 4 BEDROOMS   2 BATHROOMS   16520 sqft Lot


Step into timeless charm with this well maintained 1918 two story home offering the perfect blend of historic character and modern updates. You'll appreciate the beautiful hardwood floors, original woodwork, and inviting layout throughout. The recently updated kitchen provides functional space with today's conveniences while preserving the home's classic feel. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, main level laundry, and over 1,525 finished square feet, there is room for everyone. Situated on a large 118x140 lot with a detached 2 stall garage and ample space for gardens, outdoor entertaining, or future possibilities, this property offers small town living at its best. Pre-Listing home inspection available upon request. Call Today for a personal showing.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:59:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---106-w-south-st-badger.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---106-w-south-st-badger.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Price Adjustment - 106 W South St, Badger</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



106 W South St, Badger, SD




Price Reduced











3D Virtual Tour


Lifestyle Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


Real Estate Reports for Home Owners, Sellers &amp; Buyers


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 2 BEDROOMS   2 BATHROOMS   0.15 acres Lot


Enjoy small-town living in Badger, SD, with this large mobile home on its own lot, offering 1,758 sq ft, including multiple additions. The home features comfortable living areas filled with natural light, plus a charming solarium-perfect for relaxing year-round. Step outside to not one, but two decks ideal for entertaining or enjoying quiet mornings. A 2-stall garage provides ample storage and parking. This property blends indoor comfort with outdoor enjoyment, offering space, functionality, and versatility in a peaceful setting.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:57:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---217-hickory-st-brookings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---217-hickory-st-brookings.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Price Adjustment - 217 Hickory St, Brookings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



217 Hickory St, Brookings, SD




Price Reduced











3D Virtual Tour


Lifestyle Video


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 5 BEDROOMS   3 BATHROOMS   0.47 acres Lot


Welcome to 217 Hickory Street in Brookings, South Dakota, located in the desirable River Ridge Addition This split-level walkout home built in 2005 offers over 3,000 finished sq ft with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The kitchen is the heart of the home featuring an 8x8 island, double pantries, and tile backsplash. Enjoy vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, and a bow window that fills the living room with natural light. The primary suite includes dual sinks, a jetted tub, and separate shower. Step outside to a 14x20 deck or relax year-round in the enclosed 14x20 sun porch off the walkout lower level. All this on a 102x200 lot with a 3-stall heated garage in a prime Brookings location Pre-Listing Home Inspection available upon request.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:07:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---508-e-wye-mesa-brookings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/price-adjustment---508-e-wye-mesa-brookings.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Price Adjustment - 508 E Wye Mesa, Brookings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



508 E Wye Mesa, Brookings, SD




Price Reduced











3D Virtual Tour


Lifestyle Video


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 3 BEDROOMS   2 BATHROOMS 


WYE not look at this mobile home? Located in the highly desirable Western Estates Mobile Home Park, 508 E Wye Mesa sits in a unique neighborhood layout that feels more like a traditional home development than a mobile home community. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers over 1,200 sq. ft. of comfortable living space and a welcoming layout to enjoy. Residents appreciate the pet-friendly environment, neighborhood park area, and scenic pond nearby. You'll also love being just minutes from the bike trails, Dakota Nature Park, and the Outdoor Adventure Center, with quick and easy access to Interstate 29 for commuting. BONUS: Sellers will pay first months lot rent of $675 





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 07:53:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/you-cant-control-whats-happening-with-mortgage-rates-but-you-can-control-this.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/you-cant-control-whats-happening-with-mortgage-rates-but-you-can-control-this.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>You Can’t Control What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates. But You Can Control This.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
 





Mortgage rates have been volatile lately. And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that can make it harder to plan. But there are still things you can do to get the best rate possible in today’s market. It starts with having the right information.


So, what’s causing the bumps in rates? And what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.


Mortgage Rate Volatility Is Normal


Data from Freddie Mac shows the recent volatility. After trending down for well over a year, there was a rise this month (see graph below): 





While it’s easy to be distracted by the changes, here’s what you need to remember.


It’s normal for rates to bounce around a bit here and there. For example, if you look back at the graph, you’ll see that even within the past year there have been times like this when rates inched up. We’re in one of those moments right now and you need to be aware of that.


Especially when there’s economic uncertainty or big global events happening, volatility like this is expected. As Investopedia explains:


“Mortgage rates don’t move in isolation. When global events inject uncertainty into financial markets . . . that can ripple through to borrowing . . . mortgage costs can respond quickly to geopolitical developments. As long as uncertainty remains elevated, rate swings may continue.”


And that’s one of the reasons why trying to time the market isn’t a wise move.


You can’t control what happens with mortgage rates. But there are still things you can do to help you get the best rate possible in today’s market. And here’s where to focus your effort.


Your Credit Score


Your credit score plays a big role in the rate you qualify for. Even a small improvement can make a noticeable difference in your monthly payment. As Bankrate puts it:


“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”


So, make sure you do what you can to keep your credit score up. If you’re not sure what your score is or how you can improve it, talk to a trusted loan officer.


Your Loan Type


There are also different types of home loans – and each one can have unique requirements, benefits, and rates for qualified buyers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) explains:


“There are several broad categories of mortgage loans, such as conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans. Lenders decide which products to offer, and loan types have different eligibility requirements. Rates can be significantly different depending on what loan type you choose.”


That’s why it’s so important to explore your options with a lender. You may even want to talk to multiple lenders to see how the options vary.


Your Loan Term


The length of your loan matters too. Most lenders typically offer 15, 20, or 30-year loans. Freddie Mac offers this advice:


“When choosing the right home loan for you, it’s important to consider the loan term, which is the length of time it will take you to repay your loan before you fully own your home. Your loan term will affect your interest rate, monthly payment, and the total amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan.”


Again, to figure out what makes the most sense for your budget and long-term goals, have a lender walk you through all your options.


Bottom Line


Thinking about buying right now? The best advice is to accept that you can’t control where rates are going to go from here.


What you can do is work with a trusted lender and take steps that’ll help you get the best rate possible.


So, if you want to move today, let's make it happen. We just need to control the controllables and focus where it counts.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:08:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/new-listing---3421-oak-ln-brookings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/new-listing---3421-oak-ln-brookings.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>New Listing - 3421 Oak Ln, Brookings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



3421 Oak Ln, Brookings, SD




Just Listed











Lifestyle Video


3D Virtual Tour


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 6 BEDROOMS   4 BATHROOMS   0.55 acres Lot


This beautiful, well-maintained 6 bed, 4 bath home captures that rare ''best of both worlds'' scenario--the convenience of city utilities and proximity with the quiet atmosphere typically found in rural areas. The primary suite serves as a true retreat with high-end amenities like a private deck, fireplace, and a massive walk-in closet. The combination of fresh paint, new light fixtures, and a completely remodeled lower-level family room elevates this home to ''move-in ready'' status. Added space with a separate entrance offers versatility for multi-generational living, a long-term rental, or a high-end guest space. Large yard with established produce (raspberries, strawberries, and raised garden beds) is a dream for anyone with a green thumb.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:06:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house---909-christine-ave-brookings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house---909-christine-ave-brookings.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Open House - 909 Christine Ave, Brookings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



909 Christine Ave, Brookings, SD




Open House











Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


Real Estate Reports for Home Owners, Sellers &amp; Buyers


Maps &amp; Local


Schools


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 5 BEDROOMS   3 BATHROOMS   50617 sqft Lot


Don't miss out on this very rare opportunity Located right in the heart of Brookings, this 1-owner, custom built home features almost 4,500 finished sq. ft. and is located on a huge 1.16 acre lot You'll love the deck off the main level, 3-season room and stamped concrete patio off the lower level walk-out going out to the huge backyard. Featuring 5 total bedrooms, including 4 on the main level, 3 full baths, a large kitchen, wet bar in the lower level, and ample storage space, you'll want to see this for yourself. Call your agent today to schedule your showing





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:02:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house---217-hickory-st.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.brookingshometeam.com/blog/open-house---217-hickory-st.html</link>
        <author>shanea@century21gka.com (Shane Andersen)</author>
        <title>Open House - 217 Hickory St</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



217 Hickory St, Brookings, SD




Open House











3D Virtual Tour


Lifestyle Video


Property Video


Description


Photos


Marketing Your Home


More






$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

 5 BEDROOMS   3 BATHROOMS   0.47 acres Lot


Welcome to 217 Hickory Street in Brookings, South Dakota, located in the desirable River Ridge Addition This split-level walkout home built in 2005 offers over 3,000 finished sq ft with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The kitchen is the heart of the home featuring an 8x8 island, double pantries, and tile backsplash. Enjoy vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, and a bow window that fills the living room with natural light. The primary suite includes dual sinks, a jetted tub, and separate shower. Step outside to a 14x20 deck or relax year-round in the enclosed 14x20 sun porch off the walkout lower level. All this on a 102x200 lot with a 3-stall heated garage in a prime Brookings location Pre-Listing Home Inspection available upon request.





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 07:53:00 -0500</pubDate>
</item>
    </channel>
</rss>