Lakeville · First-Time Buyers
Your First Home in Lakeville
Learn how buying works before you shop, explained in plain words, so you know what you're signing.
Buying your first home in Lakeville
Many first-time buyers in Lakeville end up talking to a builder. I'm Lesley, a REALTOR® with Bridge Realty, and we make sure someone is on your side of that table.
What should a first-time buyer know about Lakeville? New construction is common, and a builder's price, lender, and contract all need a second look. Both downtowns are also about 20 miles north, so the commute is part of the cost.
Ask Me Your First Question
If a builder is your first stop
- Bring your own agent on the first visit. I walked into a model home alone when I bought my first house, and nobody in that room worked for me.
- Compare the builder's lender. Incentives can be worthwhile. Compare the full terms with another lender before you decide.
- Budget for what is not included. Landscaping, a deck, window coverings, and sometimes appliances.
- Look at townhomes and existing homes too. They can close sooner and cost less to finish.
What it costs, and the help available
Plan for four costs: earnest money with your offer, the inspection, your down payment, and closing costs. Down payments are often far less than 20 percent, and Minnesota Housing and local programs help eligible buyers with down payment and closing costs. If your credit needs work, a lender can give you a plan. Our first-time buyer page explains each cost, and getting ready covers pre-approval. We also work in Bloomington, closer to both downtowns.
Ask us your first question about Lakeville
You do not have to be ready to buy. Bring your questions, and you will leave with a plan. More on the community is on our Lakeville page, and the steps are on how we help buyers.
Send us a message or call (651) 661-4770.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use the builder's lender?
Compare first. Builder incentives can help, but look at the full terms from at least one other lender.
What does a new home's base price leave out?
Often landscaping, a deck, window coverings, and upgrades shown in the model. Ask for a full list.
How far is Lakeville from the downtowns?
Both downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul are about 20 miles north on Interstate 35.
Homes For Sale In Lakeville
See every home on the market in Lakeville right now, updated from the MLS.
Lakeville
What first-time buyers looks like in Lakeville
Lakeville is the largest city in Dakota County, about 20 miles south of both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul on Interstate 35, with more than 60 parks.
Lakeville is a fast-growing south metro city with newer neighborhoods, a historic downtown, and Lake Marion at its center.
- The homes
- Newer neighborhoods and active new construction in a city of more than 38 square miles.
- Schools people ask about
- Lakeville Area Schools serves most of the city, and Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan and Farmington serve parts. Confirm the district for any address.
- Getting around
- Interstate 35 is the main route north. It splits into Interstate 35W toward Minneapolis and Interstate 35E toward St. Paul, each roughly 20 miles away.
- Nearby
- Lake Marion, Ritter Farm Park, more than 60 parks, and Airlake Industrial Park on the south side.
- The trade-off
- A newer home for the price, with a longer drive to either downtown.
First-Time Buyers: keep exploring
Ready to make your move with Lesley The Realtor?