With rates holding steady between 5% and 6%, buyers can make smart, confident moves and secure better deals.
Many people believe that success in real estate comes down to timing, but preparation plays a much bigger role than most realize. Whether you’re buying or selling, the ability to act quickly and confidently will always matter more than trying to predict the perfect moment.
I recently spoke with Chris Safe from Bell Bank Mortgage, a local loan officer with more than 30 years of experience in the Twin Cities, to discuss what’s happening in the market right now and how you can position yourself to succeed.
What is Bell Bank Mortgage? Bell Bank is a full-service, $16 billion bank that provides everything from home loans and bridge loans to car loans, checking accounts, and personal banking.
Chris has spent 16 of his 33 years in the industry with Bell, which has grown to become the number one purchase lender in Minnesota with the largest market share in the state. Unlike many lenders that sell their loans to other companies, Bell services about 99.9% of the mortgages it originates.
Even though the loans are sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, homeowners continue making payments directly to Bell, keeping everything under one roof. When clients log in to their Bell dashboard, they can see their mortgage, home equity line, bridge loan, investment property, and everyday banking accounts in one place. It is simple, transparent, and local, a rare combination in the lending world today.
What’s happening in today’s market? As the Twin Cities enter the fall of 2025, the housing market is showing signs of its usual seasonal slowdown. Homes are staying on the market a little longer, and buyers are taking more time to make decisions.
Interest rates are currently in the low 6% range, and Bell’s secondary team expects them to stay between the high 5% and low 6% range for the next 12 to 18 months. Some might see that as a reason to wait, but Chris views it as an opportunity. Steady rates allow buyers and sellers to plan with confidence and make practical, informed decisions instead of emotional ones.
“Preparation, not timing, is what helps buyers and sellers win in today’s real estate market.”
Why does preparation matter most? When asked what advice he would give to anyone planning a move, Chris said that the most important thing is to be prepared before the opportunity arrives. No one can control interest rates or future prices, but everyone can make sure their finances and plans are in order.
For buyers, that means completing loan applications early, getting pre-approved, and setting a clear budget before searching for homes. When the right property becomes available, the last thing you want is to lose it because your paperwork is not ready.
For sellers, preparation starts with reaching out to an agent early, making necessary repairs, and creating a pricing and marketing plan that reflects current conditions rather than last year’s data.
Minnesota typically experiences a slower winter season before activity rises again in the spring. Those who prepare now will be ready to act quickly when the market becomes more competitive.
Preparation not only reduces stress but also eliminates delays and helps both buyers and sellers make stronger, faster decisions. It prevents last-minute problems and unnecessary costs that can easily be avoided with a clear plan.
The market will continue to evolve, but those who prepare ahead of time will always be in the best position to succeed. If you’re considering buying or selling, now is the time to put your plan in motion. For questions about mortgages, refinancing, or pre-approval, feel free to call or text us at 952-212-3597 or email us at ChadandSara@edinarealty.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
