We saw 9 homes go under contract this week — a welcome uptick from recent weeks, showing demand is still active. The Market Action Index held steady at 46 (after slipping 3 points), indicating a market still modestly tilted in favor of sellers due to limited inventory.
- Here’s the dynamic we’re seeing right now:
- Homes priced correctly move quickly — on average ~14 days on market before an offer.
- But if a property doesn’t sell quickly, it starts to sit — unless a price reduction is made.
- That has led to a number of strategic price cuts in the market lately — done smartly, they still attract interest.
Let’s put that in context with the latest data from Home Free TC (Sept 1–30, 2025) across the 7‑county metro:
•203 fully accepted, residential offers
•21% waived inspections
•7% pre‑MLS sales
•19% cash, 70% conventional
•Median purchase vs list price = 100%
•Escalation clauses: 3%
•Appraisal gap coverage: 5% of financed deals
•Seller assistance (closing costs): 36%
•Contingent on sale of buyer’s home: 14%
•Cancellations: 10%
So what does this tell us? Buyers are still aggressive when homes are priced right. Sellers are providing more concessions. And the middle (properties requiring more adjustments) is where things slow down.
In short: If your home is in great shape, priced right, and marketed properly — you still have strong chances of a fast sale.
🏠 Featured Listing: 501 Main St N #214, Stillwater
Move-in ready · Price reduced
We just reduced the price on Unit #214 at 501 Main Street N to align with the market—and now is the time to act.
Why this is a standout opportunity:
- Prime location in downtown Stillwater — walk to shops, riverfront, restaurants.
- Move-in ready condition — minimal fix‑ups required.
- Competitive pricing based on recent comps and current market velocity.
- At its new price, it’s positioned to capture immediate interest.If you — or someone you know — is searching for a downtown Stillwater condo with turnkey appeal, this is one to see today.
If you — or someone you know — is searching for a downtown Stillwater condo with turnkey appeal, this is one to see today.
Call to action:
📞 Reach out for a showing or more info
📧 I’ll send a tailored property PDF or virtual tour
📲 Share this with buyers actively searching in the St. Croix Valley
🎃 Community Note: Harvest Fest Coming Next Weekend
Mark your calendars! The Stillwater Harvest Fest returns October 11–12, 2025, in downtown Stillwater at Lowell Park. Harvest Fest + Family Fun + Twin Cities
Expect:
- Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off
- Pumpkin Drop from a 100' crane
- Pumpkin Regatta
- Live music, vendor markets, kids’ activities
- Chili Cook-Off, beer & wine garden, and more Explore Minnesota+1
It’s a fantastic weekend to bring buyers to the area, host an open house, or just show off the charm of Stillwater and the St. Croix Valley.
Why I’m Your Best Local Partner
With 30 years in real estate, lifelong ties to the Stillwater / St. Croix Valley community, and a deep understanding of hyperlocal market shifts, I bring more than listings — I bring insight, relationships, and results.
- I monitor weekly market flux so your property is never behind the curve.
- I harness local events (like Harvest Fest) to boost exposure.
- I pair data (like the Home Free TC trends) with gut-level knowledge of this region.
- I care about client experience — every home, every deal, every relationship.
If you want to consult on pricing strategy, marketing cadence, buyer tours, or timing your listing around community events, I’m ready to help you map it out.
About Richard
Richard McDonough is a top-producing real estate broker in Stillwater & Wasington County Minnesota reaching into Western Wisconsin, specializing in luxury homes, waterfront properties, and distinctive estates throughout the St. Croix Valley With more than 33 years of experience, Richard has built a reputation for integrity, innovation, and results, making him one of the most trusted and recognized Realtors in the region.
As a fourth-generation Stillwater resident, Richard combines deep local roots with global reach through his affiliation with Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty. His expertise spans the area’s most sought-after communities — from Stillwater and Lake Elmo to Woodbury, Afton, Marine on St. Croix, Mahtomedi, Grant, and Dellwood — along with select Wisconsin river towns such as Hudson and Prescott.
Richard is known for delivering a “Luxury Plus” marketing approach that goes beyond traditional real estate services. Every listing receives a personalized strategy with professional staging, high-end photography, drone video tours, and targeted digital campaigns across Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. His ability to tell each home’s unique story consistently attracts qualified buyers and maximizes value for sellers.
In addition to his track record of selling some of the St. Croix Valley’s most prestigious properties, Richard is deeply engaged in his community. He serves on local nonprofit boards, volunteers for events like Home Town for the Holidays, and is dedicated to supporting the Stillwater area’s vibrancy.
Clients describe Richard as experienced, resourceful, and innovative — a true advocate who handles every detail of the buying and selling process with professionalism and care. Whether helping first-time buyers, seasoned investors, or high-net-worth individuals, Richard’s mission is to make every real estate experience seamless, rewarding, and successful.
