Long Distance House Hunting: A Practical Guide
House hunting is always a big step, but doing it from hundreds of miles away can feel especially challenging. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving closer to family, or simply looking for a change of pace, buying a home remotely comes with its own set of hurdles. The good news? With the right preparation, tools, and local insights, you can make the process smoother — and even enjoyable.
At Excelsior Realty Team, we’ve helped countless buyers settle into the Twin Cities from out of state. Here are some practical steps we recommend when starting your long-distance home search.
1. Clarify Your Needs Before You Start
Before diving into online listings, sit down and create a clear list of what you’re looking for. Think about:
- Budget – set a firm range, keeping in mind down payment and monthly mortgage comfort.
- Property type – single-family home, townhouse, or condo?
- Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves – number of bedrooms, yard size, finished basement, or home office space.
In the Twin Cities’ western and southwestern suburbs, common factors include school districts, commute times into Minneapolis, and proximity to lakes or green spaces.
2. Research Neighborhoods Thoroughly
Not all suburbs offer the same mix of affordability, schools, and lifestyle amenities. Comparing them side by side can help narrow your focus before you even step foot in Minnesota.
Suburb Comparison: Twin Cities’ Western & Southwestern Metro
| Suburb | Average Home Price* | Commute to Downtown Minneapolis | Schools (GreatSchools Avg.) | Notable Features |
| Minnetonka | ~$525,000 | 20–25 minutes | 7/10 | Lake Minnetonka access, strong community amenities |
| Eden Prairie | ~$500,000 | 25–30 minutes | 8/10 | Family-friendly, large parks, Eden Prairie Center |
| Plymouth | ~$475,000 | 20–25 minutes | 8/10 | Top-ranked schools, Medicine Lake, suburban convenience |
| Edina | ~$650,000 | 15–20 minutes | 9/10 | Prestigious schools, upscale shopping, close-in suburb |
| Bloomington | ~$375,000 | 20–25 minutes | 6/10 | Mall of America, easy airport access, mix of housing options |
*Average home prices are 2024 estimates.
3. Use Online Tools Wisely
Most long-distance house hunters start online. Make the most of:
- Real estate sites (Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com) – set alerts for new listings in your target suburbs.
- Virtual tours – many listings now include 3D walkthroughs that give you a good sense of the layout.
- Google Street View – explore the neighborhood virtually, checking for traffic, sidewalks, and overall feel.
Pro tip: our agents often create personalized video walk-throughs for clients, giving you a candid look at the home and neighborhood that standard listings don’t provide.
4. Partner With a Local Agent You Trust
A knowledgeable Twin Cities–based real estate agent can be your biggest asset. They can:
- Preview homes on your behalf.
- Send you video walk-throughs of properties.
- Offer insider advice on neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and school reputations.
Our Excelsior Realty Team specializes in helping relocating buyers — acting as your eyes and ears on the ground.
5. Factor in the True Cost of Living
Beyond the purchase price, consider ongoing costs that can differ widely between suburbs:
- Property taxes – Minnesota’s average rate is ~1.12%, but it varies by county.
- Utilities – heating bills can spike during long winters.
- HOA fees – certain developments or townhome communities add monthly costs.
An experienced agent can help you compare these costs when weighing one suburb against another.
6. Schedule a Visit (If Possible)
Even one weekend trip can help clarify your options. Plan ahead to maximize your time:
- Tour several homes with your agent.
- Visit schools or daycare centers.
- Drive potential commute routes at rush hour.
If travel isn’t possible, our team frequently schedules live video tours for clients so they can still get a real-time feel for properties.
7. Consider Short-Term Housing
If you’re not comfortable buying sight unseen, renting for a few months can buy you time to explore. Short-term housing gives you a chance to test different neighborhoods before making a long-term commitment.
8. Don’t Skip the Inspection
When buying remotely, an independent inspection becomes even more important. A professional inspector can flag issues you might not notice on a video tour, helping you avoid costly surprises after move-in.
Final Thoughts
Long-distance house hunting requires extra planning, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By getting clear on your needs, researching suburbs, leveraging online tools, and working with a trusted local agent, you can find a home that fits both your lifestyle and budget.
The Excelsior Realty Team has deep roots across Minnesota and years of experience helping families relocate to the Twin Cities’ western and southwestern suburbs. If you’re considering a move, let us guide you through the process — from neighborhood research to closing day.
