The south metro continues to see an increase in new construction according to the Twin Cities Builders Association.  Lakeville is leading the pack with 172 permits through the end of June 2013, which is 107 more than last year at this time.  Other south metro figures for the first half of 2013 are Eagan with 57, Rosemount with 36, Apple Valley with 29, and Inver Grove Heights with 28. The only area with less new building permits that for the same period in 2012 was Hastings with 10, down from 15 last year.

Starting in January, Dakota county is offering money for first time home buyers! For qualifying first time home buyers, Dakota has $30 million to spend on low interest mortgage financing and up to $10,ooo for down payments and closing cost assistance.  This money is available through the Dakota County Community Development Agency’s First Time Home Buyer Program.  They expect about 200 home buyers to take part in this program. If you are not a first time home buyer but you have not owned a home in the past 3 years you may also be eligible.  The program covers purchases of condos, townhomes and single family homes in Dakota county up to $276,683.  The income limits are $83,900 for 1 – 2 person households and $92,290 for households of 3 or more.  All buyers must complete a home buyer education course in order to be approved for this program.  For more information contact me or go to www.dakotacda.org/homebuyers.htm