Lahti

But, That’s Not What You Can Buy It For

Estimated Market Value — Building: $400
Estimated Market Value – Land: $150,000
Estimated Market Value – Total: $150,400

–Hennepin County 2014 Property Tax Records

It’s not unusual for the land underneath an older, dated home to be worth more than the home itself.

That’s especially true for a larger lot — more than .2 acres or so — in a desirable, closer-in location.

What is unusual is for the land to represent 99.7% of the total tax assessed value — especially when the home isn’t falling down (see below).

Tear-Down?  

In the case of this Minnetonka listing — currently on the market for $225k —  the home is actually in good condition.

Make that, very good condition.

While it’s only two Bedrooms, two Bathrooms, and 1,200 FSF — it’s completely renovated with a new Kitchen (including cabinets, counters, and appliances), refinished hardwood floors, and new Baths.

P.S.:  Usually, the building accounts for 65% to 75% of the property’s tax assessed value, while the land represents the remaining 25% to 35%.

About the author

Ross Kaplan has 19+ years experience selling real estate all over the Twin Cities. He is also a 12-time consecutive "Super Real Estate Agent," as determined by Mpls. - St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business Magazine. Prior to becoming a Realtor, Ross was an attorney (corporate law), CPA, and entrepreneur. He holds an economics degree from Stanford.

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