Monica Raskob Real Estate

Do you know where your home’s main water shutoff valve is? 💧🏡

A leaking appliance, burst pipe or plumbing emergency can cause significant damage in just minutes. Knowing where the valve is—and how to turn it off—can help you act quickly.

Take a few minutes to:
💧 Locate your main water shutoff valve
💧 Make sure it’s clearly labeled
💧 Confirm that it turns properly
💧 Show other household members where it is

If the valve is difficult to move or you’re unsure how it works, contact a licensed plumber rather than forcing it.

A little preparation now can make a big difference during an emergency! 💙

Our pets are part of the family—but preparing for showings may require a little extra planning. 🐾🏡

Before buyers arrive:
🐾 Arrange for pets to leave the home when possible
🐾 Put away bowls, beds, litter boxes and toys
🐾 Vacuum furniture and floors carefully
🐾 Check for lingering odors or visible pet damage
🐾 Let your agent know about any special instructions

The goal isn’t to hide that pets live there. It’s to help buyers focus on the home while keeping everyone—including your pets—comfortable and safe.

When you purchase a home, what stays—and what goes? 🏡

Items permanently attached to the property are often treated as fixtures, while movable belongings are generally considered personal property.

Examples of attached items may include:

✅ Built-in shelving
✅ Attached light fixtures
✅ Mounted curtain rods

Appliances, televisions, patio furniture and other items may depend on the purchase agreement.

The safest approach? Never assume. If something matters to you, make sure it’s clearly addressed in writing. ✍️

Here’s one small fall task that’s easy to forget! 🍂

Before freezing temperatures arrive:

✅ Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets
✅ Drain and store the hoses
✅ Shut off the interior supply valve if your home has one
✅ Drain the exterior line when applicable

Water trapped in a connected hose or faucet can freeze and cause avoidable damage. A few minutes now can help protect your home later. 🏡

Thinking about moving can bring up a lot of questions—and that’s completely normal. 🏡

You don’t need to know exactly when you’ll move, what your home is worth or where you’ll go next before starting the conversation.

Sometimes the first step is simply gathering good information so you can make decisions with confidence when the timing feels right. 💙

Apple orchard season is one of the sweetest parts of fall in Minnesota! 🍎🍂

Looking for a fun place to visit with the family? This helpful roundup features 12 apple orchards near the Twin Cities—with apple picking, wagon rides, corn mazes, c***r, fresh-baked treats and plenty of fall fun! 🧺🍩

Take a look, choose your next autumn adventure and remember to check the orchard’s website for current hours and activities before heading out.

Do you have a favorite Minnesota apple orchard? Share it in the comments! 👇

The 12 Best Apple Orchards in the Twin Cities, MN We found the best apple orchards to pick apples near Minneapolis with kids and apple orchards with activities near the Twin Cities.

Fall on Minnesota’s North Shore is pure magic! 🍂🌊 Whether you’re planning a scenic drive, hoping to catch peak color, or looking for a fun fall festival, this guide has so many great ideas for a beautiful autumn getaway.

Who else loves a North Shore road trip this time of year? 🚗✨

Hiking and Driving Fall Color Tours Hiking and driving fall color tours of the North Shore. Explore these fall color hikes and drive on Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior.