HOME SERVICES
OUTDOOR SPACES DESIGNED FOR LIVING
CREATING CALM THROUGH THOUGHTFUL ORGANIZATION
REAL ESTATE
GUIDING HOMES THROUGH LIFE’S TRANSITIONS
HOME + DESIGN
DESIGN-FORWARD GARAGE DOORS THAT ELEVATE CURB APPEAL
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For over 25 years, The Commons on Marice has been serving the Eagan community, providing exceptional senior living and a range of lifestyle preferences and continuing care needs. We take pride in our unique programs, including Rock Steady Boxing, intergenerational activities, and Montessori Inspired Lifestyle® approach to memory care. We invite you to come see all that we have to offer and experience our vibrant community firsthand.
Home, in All the Ways It Matters
March has a way of shifting our perspective. As the days grow longer and the promise of spring begins to show, our attention naturally turns homeward. We start to notice what’s working, what could be refreshed, and how our spaces support the way we live. This Home issue is a celebration of the people and businesses who understand that home isn’t just about structure or style—it’s about how a space feels and functions through every season of life.
This month, we highlight local experts who approach home with intention and care. At Green Oasis, crews can be found throughout the Twin Cities designing and maintaining outdoor spaces that feel like natural extensions of the home. Whether it’s a full landscape transformation or ongoing property care, their work centers on flexibility, craftsmanship, and creating environments people genuinely enjoy spending time in.
For many families, home is also deeply tied to legacy. Keith and Sheila Hittner bring a thoughtful, steady presence to real estate decisions involving estates, trusts, and long-term planning. Their approach recognizes that homes carry more than market value—they hold memories, meaning, and responsibility. By guiding families through these transitions with clarity and respect, they help preserve both financial and emotional value.
Inside the home, orgANNEizer founder Anne Messerli focuses on something just as essential: breathing room. Through custom organization and household support, she helps people create systems that align with how they truly live. Her work isn’t about perfection—it’s about comfort, clarity, and lasting functionality that reduces stress long after the project is complete.
And when it comes to first impressions, Twin City Garage Door reminds us that design often begins before you step inside. As garage doors become a defining architectural feature in many Twin Cities neighborhoods, their team approaches each project with a designer’s eye—balancing function, curb appeal, and craftsmanship.
As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (eagan@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.
This March, remember home is never one thing. It’s a gathering place, a reflection of legacy, a source of calm, and a foundation for daily life. We hope this issue inspires you to see your own home with fresh eyes—and renewed appreciation.
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Amy Sousa | Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Madeline O'Neil | madeline.oneil@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Devon Williams | devon.williams@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com
STAFF WRITER
Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com
COPY EDITOR
Judy Sousa | eagsan@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Combining
Thoughtful
Where
business monthly
Mortgage Financing, Made Simple
Whether navigating unique financing scenarios, downsizing, upsizing, or building a new home, Krysia Moe is committed to finding the right mortgage solution and guiding clients every step of the way. Known for her expertise, responsiveness, and genuine care, Krysia makes the mortgage process clear and approachable. Her dedication to excellence was recognized when she was named a 2025 Super Mortgage Professional by Mpls. St. Paul/Twin Cities Business Magazine. Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender
Boulder Images Turns Backyards into Natural Stone Sanctuaries
Adding boulders to your yard is a striking way to elevate outdoor living—while solving real needs like erosion control, structure, and durable seating. Boulder Images helps Minnesotans live outdoors with custom boulder walls and natural-stone features that elevate every season—poolscapes, firepits, terraces, and gathering spaces built for lasting memories. From concept to installation, Boulder Images is known for meticulous design, exceptional craftsmanship, and hands-on service. Visit boulderimages.com to view featured projects and request a consultation today!
Caspar’s Cleanouts Keeps Twin Cities Drains Flowing
Caspar’s Cleanouts provides reliable, affordable drain and sewer cleaning for residential and commercial properties across the Twin Cities. The team clears kitchen lines, bathroom sinks, tubs, floor drains, and main lines—helping prevent backups and restore proper flow quickly. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a stubborn clog, Caspar’s Cleanouts delivers straightforward service and dependable results. To schedule service or learn more about available solutions, contact Caspar’s Cleanouts and keep your plumbing running smoothly year-round.
Helping Children With Autism Succeed
At Minnesota Behavioral Specialists, we help children with autism develop new social, communication, self-care, and self-management skills through the use of play and reinforcement. We strive to help children be as successful as possible and to help families find ways to meet their goals. We provide intensive in-home and center-based services for children age 10 and under.
www.mnbehavioral.com
(651) 900-2210
4635 Nicols Rd, Ste. 104, Eagan, Minnesota 55122
Designing Outdoor Living with Purpose
Oasis combines design insight, family values, and experience to shape outdoor spaces that feel like home.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
Green
On any given week, Green Oasis crews can be found throughout the Twin Cities in areas such as Eagan, Woodbury, and Cottage Grove, designing and caring for outdoor spaces that feel like natural extensions of the home. While the company operates out of three main branches, River Falls, Eau Claire, and Rice Lake, WI, their work throughout the Twin Cities has become part of their regular rhythm.
Zach Schuster, River Falls Branch Manager, explains that flexibility has always been part of the company’s mindset. Whether it’s a complete outdoor renovation or ongoing property care, Green Oasis approaches every property with the same level of attention. The goal isn’t just a finished project. It’s creating spaces people actually want to spend time in.
BUILT OVER GENERATIONS
Green Oasis began its story in Eau Claire nearly five decades ago. Founder Wayne Bollinger started in irrigation, later purchasing the company he worked for and gradually expanding into lawn care and exterior maintenance throughout the 1980s and 1990s. As the business grew, so did its footprint.
The River Falls location joined the company around 2008, originally operating as Greens Keepers before becoming part of the Green Oasis name. That name officially took hold in 2014, reflecting a broader vision beyond turf alone. In 2025, the Rice Lake location was added, continuing the growth of a business rooted in long-term relationships.
While Wayne Bollinger still owns the company, day-to-day operations are now largely led by his son, Nate. That continuity matters. Many family-run companies struggle to last beyond a
generation, but Green Oasis has carried its values forward by investing in people, systems, and knowledge that evolve without losing their foundation.
DESIGN THAT STARTS WITH LISTENING
Anyone can mow a lawn or install a patio. What sets Green Oasis apart is the way projects begin: with conversation. Zach points out that the team spends time understanding how clients live, gather, and relax. Outdoor areas are planned to support daily routines, not just special occasions. That approach shows up in everything from patios and entryways to gardens and outdoor rooms. Carpentry, decking, and landscaping are treated as parts of one cohesive plan, rather than separate services. The result feels intentional, not pieced together.
Senior Designer Ben Graf notes that today’s homeowners want outdoor spaces that work harder and feel more personal. Design is about shaping areas that match the way families actually use their homes.
TRENDS SHAPING OUTDOOR SPACES IN 2026
According to Ben, several clear design directions are emerging as homeowners think beyond a single patio or planting bed.
Multi-level outdoor living is gaining momentum, with tiered layouts creating distinct areas for dining, lounging, and gathering around fire features. These designs help spaces feel organized while still inviting movement and connection.
Warm, natural hardscape palettes are also taking center stage. Tans, buffs, and weathered limestone-inspired textures are replacing cooler grays, bringing a softer, more timeless feel to patios and walkways.
Integrated outdoor carpentry continues to grow in popularity. Pergolas, pavilions, and privacy screens are now planned as architectural extensions of the home itself. Shade structures are no longer afterthoughts. Now, they’re part of the initial design conversation.
Low-maintenance planting is another major shift.
Clients are choosing fewer plant varieties with thoughtful massing and year-round interest, creating clean lines without constant upkeep.
Finally, fire and lighting are becoming focal points. Rather than accessories, these features are planned from the start to shape how spaces are used after sunset.
LIGHTING THAT EXTENDS THE DAY
Green Oasis offers both landscape and architectural lighting solutions, helping homeowners enjoy their spaces long after daylight fades. Whether highlighting a new deck, paver patio, or garden path, lighting adds depth and warmth to outdoor areas.
Some clients prefer permanent lighting that frames the home itself, while others focus on softer illumination that sets the mood for evening gatherings. In both
cases, lighting is treated as part of the overall design, not a last-minute addition.
Seasonal holiday lighting is another specialty. From trees and shrubs to wreaths and garlands, Green Oasis handles installation, takedown, and storage. With their own lift equipment, even larger displays are handled safely. For homeowners who’ve already decorated, the team can step in to remove lights once the season ends.
MORE THAN MAINTENANCE
In addition to design-build projects, Green Oasis provides full-service lawn care, weed control, pest management, and irrigation. These services allow homeowners to enjoy their property without spending weekends managing it.
Zach says one of the most rewarding parts of his role is meeting people, both clients and team members, and seeing how outdoor spaces change the way families spend their time. Giving people their weekends back, their evenings outside, and moments together is what the work is really about.
A PARTNER FOR EVERY PROJECT
Green Oasis approaches every job with the same mindset: no project is too large or too small. From a single planting refresh to a full outdoor transformation, each space is treated as part of someone’s home and daily life.
With nearly 50 seasons behind them, the team brings perspective shaped by years of changing styles, materials, and client needs. That history allows them to guide homeowners toward choices that fit their vision today while still making sense years from now.
At its core, Green Oasis isn’t just about lawns or patios. It’s about care, respect, and creating places where families can slow down, gather, and feel at home, right outside their door.
YOUR HOME, YOUR LEGACY
How thoughtful real estate planning, probate expertise, and strategic preparation protect wealth, honor family intentions, and guide meaningful transitions.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
For many families, a home is far more than a physical structure. It reflects decades of memories, financial decisions, and long-term planning. When that home becomes part of an estate, a trust, or a future transition, the stakes rise quickly. Every choice, from repairs to timing to representation, can shape how value is preserved and passed forward.
That is where Keith Hittner, Sr. Broker and Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist, and Sheila Hittner bring a rare combination of financial insight, real estate experience, and measured guidance. Together, through Coldwell Banker, they help families approach property decisions as part of a broader legacy conversation, one with a foundation in clarity, planning, and respect for what the home represents.
A FINANCIAL FOUNDATION THAT SHAPES PERSPECTIVE
Keith’s path into real estate began long before his first listing. As a Certified Public Accountant, he spent years auditing large organizations, gaining a deep understanding of financial structures, reporting, and long-range planning. While the work was rigorous, constant travel eventually pushed him to reconsider how he wanted to spend his time.
After owning and operating a garden center business for 15 years, Keith once again found himself at a crossroads as seasonal pressures grew harder to manage. When he sold the business, a friend introduced him to real estate, not as salesmanship, but as problem-solving. Helping people identify the right property, understand its value, and make informed decisions felt familiar. The transition fit naturally, and nearly four decades later, that financial mindset still shapes how he approaches every transaction.
TWO SKILL SETS, ONE SHARED PHILOSOPHY
Sheila’s journey followed a different path, though it ultimately led to the same place. With a background as a title closer, she worked directly with buyers, sellers, and lenders during some of the most detailed moments of a transaction. In fact, she and Keith first met across the closing table.
Though she had long been interested in real estate (an aptitude test in high school even pointed her in that direction), the commission structure initially gave her pause. That changed when she began helping with inbound calls for Keith’s business. More than 30 years later, her strength lies in working with buyers, while Keith focuses on sellers. The balance allows them to serve clients at every stage, from first-time buyers to those acquiring luxury or vacation properties.
They are deliberate about diversification. Rather than limiting their work to a single niche, they represent clients across price points and life stages. That flexibility has allowed them to remain steady through shifting markets and changing personal circumstances.
PROBATE AS A PLANNING DISCIPLINE
Keith’s certification as a probate real estate specialist reflects additional training in legal timelines, documentation, and court processes. During the pandemic, Keith and Sheila recognized that many families would soon face complicated transitions involving estates, divorce, and loss. Instead of stepping back, they leaned into education and preparation.
Probate sales require patience, structure, and attention to detail. In Minnesota, the process often spans eight to nine months, sometimes closer to a year, from filing to closing. When multiple properties or states are involved, filings may be required in each jurisdiction. Keith works alongside attorneys and coordinates referrals when out-of-state expertise is needed, drawing on Coldwell Banker’s national network rather than stretching beyond his scope.
Sheila emphasizes education early in the process. When a homeowner passes, they take time to guide the personal representative through each phase, accounting for both legal requirements and the emotional weight families carry. Special care is extended to surviving spouses, allowing conversations to unfold at a pace that respects grief rather than rushing decisions.
PREPARING A HOME WITH PURPOSE
Viewing a home as part of a wealth strategy changes how preparation looks. Keith and Sheila encourage families, especially those with aging parents, to begin organizing early. Sorting through belongings, identifying meaningful items for future generations, and donating or discarding unused possessions can prevent rushed decisions later.
Today’s buyers often want homes that are ready for living, not long lists of repairs. Addressing deferred maintenance, repairing broken items, refreshing paint, and improving cleanliness can
influence both pricing and timeline. Return on investment may mean a higher sale price, but it can also mean fewer months on the market.
Keith and Sheila coordinate repairs, flooring, roofing, painting, estate sales, and the responsible redistribution of household items. Their goal is to protect equity and avoid predatory offers that undervalue a property. In many cases, those preserved dollars fund tuition, down payments, or long-term plans that matter deeply to the original homeowner’s vision.
LEGACY REQUIRES THOUGHTFUL TIMING
Planning does not begin at probate. Keith often reminds clients that most people will move at some point, through marriage, career changes, downsizing, or life transitions. Improvements made today should reflect how a home functions now while keeping future market appeal in mind.
He also urges caution around blanket solutions, such as placing property into a trust without professional guidance. Elder care attorneys can advise on whether a trust, transfer-on-death deed, or another option aligns with broader goals. Thoughtful conversations upfront reduce surprises later.
WISDOM EARNED OVER TIME
After decades in the industry, Keith and Sheila have worked through complex family dynamics, overlapping interests, and emotionally charged situations. Their role often extends beyond real estate logistics into helping families communicate, stay levelheaded, and move forward with intention.
In the end, their work centers on stewardship. A home carries meaning, history, and financial weight. Managing it wisely honors both the past and the future, turning a transition into a continuation of the legacy rather than a loss of it.
Break Free from The Burnout Cycle
For when keeping it all together starts falling apart The Struggle You push yourself to be perfect—at work, at home, in every relationship. You’re exhausted, critical of yourself, and feel like you’re never enough. The Cost of Staying Stuck Stress keeps building. Sleep, energy, and confidence start slipping.
Everyday tasks feel overwhelming, and self-criticism never ends. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone With guidance and practical strategies, you can release the constant pressure to perform, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with what truly matters.
by Lena Simelgor,
Maddy Trenholm MSW, LICSW
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
ORDER, Finally FOUND
Where Thoughtful Organization Becomes a Form of Quiet Luxury.
A CALLING THAT GREW INTO A CAREER
For more than a decade, Anne Messerli has been helping people reclaim their homes—and, just as often, their breathing room. What began as a side pursuit has grown into a full-time calling through orgANNEizer, her Minnesota-based business centered on custom organization and household support.
Messerli’s work is deeply personal, even though she approaches each project as a neutral third party. “This is relational,” she explains. “I need to understand how someone lives before anything changes.” Her process isn’t about trends or picture-perfect pantries. It’s about comfort, clarity, and creating systems people can actually live with—long after she’s gone.
LESSONS FROM A LIFE THAT REQUIRED STRUCTURE
Before launching orgANNEizer, Messerli spent 20 years as a high school Spanish teacher. As a single mom, structure wasn’t optional. It was survival. “I had to keep everything together,” she says. “There was no backup plan.” That lived experience shapes her work today. She understands what it means to juggle work, family, and a home that never seems to rest.
Messerli returned to Minnesota in 2012 and continued teaching for several years, balancing the classroom with her growing interest in organization work. When COVID disrupted daily life, she decided to step away from teaching and commit fully to orgANNEizer, turning what had long been a side pursuit into her full-time focus on helping people reclaim time and ease pressure at home.
That clarity led to orgANNEizer..
WHO ORGANIZATION IS REALLY FOR
Her clients are rarely looking for Pinterest-worthy results. They’re overwhelmed. They’re busy. Their free time has been swallowed by piles, decisions, and spaces that quietly demand attention every single day. “If you’re not willing to let go of things,” she says plainly, “you’re not ready to organize.”
Shuffling items around doesn’t create relief. Change requires release.
Messerli is direct but gentle. As a neutral presence, she can ask questions that family members can’t. Extended families often struggle to help because emotions run deep. Messerli steps in without attachment, helping clients decide what truly belongs in their lives now—not ten years ago, not someday.
MORE THAN CLOSETS AND CONTAINERS
Her services stretch well beyond closets. She helps clients prepare for moves, settle into new homes, manage seasonal tasks like holiday decorating, and even handle laundry. Some clients rely on her as a household manager, such as running errands, prepping for gatherings, caring for plants during travel, and coordinating contractors.
For safety and insurance reasons, orgANNEizer doesn’t provide care for pets or children.
The goal is always the same: to get back. “When I take those tasks off someone’s plate, they get hours back for their family, their rest, their life.”
ORGANIZATION AS A STRESS-REDUCTION INVESTMENT
Organization, in Messerli’s view, is an investment in stress reduction. Not through rigid rules or unnecessary containers, but through thoughtful placement. “It’s exhausting to own something and not know where it belongs,” she says. “And it’s just as draining to need something and not be able to find it.”
That experience is widely shared. A national poll conducted a few years ago found that 63% of Americans view home organization as a meaningful way to reduce stress, with 74% describing the process as “extremely satisfying.” Messerli sees those numbers reflected in her clients every day. Relief often comes quickly, not because a space looks different, but because it feels lighter to move through.
She works closely with clients to identify which rooms or routines cause the most frustration. Then, together, they build systems the whole household can follow. Clear zones. Logical placement. Simple guidelines that stick. When everyone knows where things belong, tension drops, decisions feel easier, and daily life requires less mental effort.
TRANSFORMATIONS THAT CHANGE HOW A HOME FEELS
One of her earliest projects still comes to mind now and again when Anne thinks about the true impact she is making on clients' lives. The client was a collector whose home had reached a breaking point. Messerli coordinated a full reset with items packed and stored, the home cleaned, and shelving installed. When everything returned, it came back with intention.
Art with art. Books with books. Movies grouped together.
The client could finally see what she owned and enjoy it. Beyond the visual shift, the change eased daily strain. Too many belongings can weigh heavily on mental health, creating constant background stress. When people can’t find what they need, frustration builds fast. Clear placement removes that friction, replacing anxiety with calm familiarity.
“It wasn’t about taking things away,” Messerli says. “It was about making space so what mattered could be used.”
“When your space stops asking things from you, time and peace begin to return.”
WHEN FUNCTION AND VISUAL CALM BECOME ONE
Recently, orgANNEizer expanded its offerings by bringing interior designer Shelby Grinwis onto the team. The partnership allows Messerli’s organizational plans to pair with thoughtful design guidance, adding warmth and polish to spaces that already function well. Grinwis helps translate order into visual ease, offering design ideas that complement how a space is actually used rather than masking it with decoration.
The result feels calm and grounded rather than clinical, with intentional storage solutions and rooms that reflect the people who live in them.
That sense of quiet luxury sits at the center of Messerli’s philosophy. Not flashy. Not showy. Just spaces that feel settled, lived-in, and supportive. They become places where order fades into the background and life takes center stage.
ASKING FOR HELP IS THE FIRST SHIFT
“If your home is making you unhappy,” she asks, “and you want more time to do what makes you happy, why wouldn’t you ask for help?”
Time doesn’t come back. Letting someone carry the weight for a while isn’t weakness. In Messerli’s view, it’s strength. It’s an intentional choice to protect energy, focus, and personal well-being.
And often, it’s the first step toward a home that finally feels like it’s working for you, not the other way around.
Is your home in need of a reset? Contact Anne Messerli today at (612) 558-9586 to see how orgANNEizer can help.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
Homeowners understand that first impressions begin long before a guest steps inside.
When Garage Doors Become Architectural Statements at Home
Landscaping, siding, lighting, and rooflines all play a role. Yet one feature often gets overlooked, even though it can account for a sizeable portion of what people see from the street: the garage door.
How Twin City
Garage
Door helps homeowners treat garage doors as thoughtful design decisions, not afterthoughts.
In many Twin Cities neighborhoods, especially those filled with modern, transitional, or thoughtfully updated traditional homes, the garage door has become a defining architectural feature. And that’s why Twin City Garage Door has built a reputation not just as an installer, but as a design-minded partner for homeowners and builders alike.
A COMPANY BUILT ON CRAFTSMANSHIP
Founded in 1965, Twin City Garage Door has spent decades serving Minnesota homes and businesses. That matters in an industry where quick-entry operations still exist, and homeowners are uncertain about who to trust.
“We’ve demonstrated our quality of work time and time again,” says Mike Glende, branch manager of the Burnsville location. “Our repeat business continues to grow, and word-of-mouth has helped people see that we’re ethical and focused on doing the right thing.”
Mike joined the company in December 2019, initially working to expand the commercial service footprint with an emphasis on safety inspections and compliance. In 2022, he stepped into the branch manager role, overseeing both commercial and residential work. Since then, the Burnsville team has more than doubled, growing from six technicians to thirteen.
“People come back because we take the time to educate, not pressure.”
FROM INSTALLATION TO DESIGN COLLABORATION
One of the biggest shifts in recent years has been the way homeowners approach garage doors in new builds and renovations. Rather than choosing a door at the end of a project, many now see it as part of the overall design conversation.
“We work closely with builders and general contractors we’ve partnered with for years,” Mike says. “They know what they need, and we meet those expectations. With homeowners, the relationship is more collaborative. It’s about helping them choose something that complements the architecture of the home.”
That collaboration extends to access to designer-grade materials and suppliers. Twin City Garage Door offers steel, wood, wood composite, glass, and contemporary full-vision doors. These options allow homeowners to match nearly any style, from clean-lined modern homes to classic properties with updated finishes.
WHAT HOMEOWNERS ARE CHOOSING RIGHT NOW
“Wood tones have been popular for a while, and that hasn’t slowed down,” Mike notes. “Wood grains work across a lot of architectural styles.”
Another popular option is the plank-style door. These doors offer the visual warmth of wood planking while using steel construction, giving homeowners the look they love with added reliability. For those who want an authentic finish, true wood and wood composite doors remain available as well.
“Our repeat business continues to grow, and word-of-mouth has helped people see that we’re ethical and focused on doing the right thing.”
“These choices let homeowners create a custom look without forcing the door to compete with the rest of the home,” Mike says. “It should feel intentional, not like an add-on.”
SEEING COLOR AND TEXTURE THE RIGHT WAY
For homeowners planning a custom build or exterior refresh, Mike offers practical guidance that can save disappointment later.
“One of my biggest recommendations is to bring a piece of siding or trim with you,” he explains. “But even more important, get the door outside.”
Lighting changes everything. Viewing samples indoors or online can distort color, grain, and finish. By bringing door samples into natural light, homeowners gain a far more accurate sense of how the door will look once installed.
“And try not to fall in love with something online,” Mike adds. “Let’s see it outside first. That step makes a huge difference.”
RESIDENTIAL GROWTH MEETS MODERN LIVING
The residential side of the business continues to expand as new developments rise and older homes adopt updated technology. Smart openers, quieter systems, and modern safety features are becoming standard expectations rather than upgrades.
“Our role is to guide people through those choices,” Mike says. “Many homeowners don’t realize what’s possible until they start asking questions.”
That guidance is part of the company’s broader effort to challenge outdated perceptions of the garage door industry.
“There hasn’t always been much barrier to entry on the residential side,” Mike explains. “That’s why education matters. We want homeowners to understand how their door works and what makes sense for their home.”
THE BEST PART OF THE JOB
Ask Mike what keeps him motivated, and the answer comes quickly.
“Hands down, it’s the people,” he says. “Whether someone walks in, calls with a question, or needs help down the road, those relationships matter. Over time, they turn into real connections.”
It’s that people-first mindset combined with decades of craftsmanship that has positioned Twin City Garage Door as more than a service provider. For homeowners who care about design that lasts, combined with thoughtful choices, the garage door has become a statement piece, and they want a partner who treats it that way.
IT'S ELECTRIC
flooring trends underfoot for 2026
What
homeowners should know about new looks, smart choices, and simple care habits
As 2026 approaches, flooring trends are circling back to ideas that once felt traditional. According to Sheel Malaviya, franchise owner of Floor Coverings International , which serves homeowners across the South Twin Cities area, homeowners are leaning into character, texture, and thoughtful coordination across rooms.
“Carpet is a great example,” Sheel says. “Most people know cut-loop or Berber, but patterned carpet is really coming back.” These designs range from geometric to abstract, adding visual interest without overpowering a space. Patterned carpet, once reserved for formal rooms, is now finding its way into everyday living areas.
Another approach gaining traction is mixing carpet styles while keeping color consistent.
“You might use cut-loop in a family room, Berber in a sunroom, and a patterned carpet nearby,” Sheel explains. “You get different textures, but everything still feels connected.”
LAMINATE’S SECOND ACT
Laminate flooring has also found renewed appreciation. Years ago, it carried a reputation that turned some homeowners away. Today’s options tell a different story.
“That entire category has been reinvented,” Sheel says. “Laminate is now one of the most scratch-resistant surfaces out there.”
Manufacturers have added texture and depth, giving laminate a more natural, wood-like feel than earlier versions.
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
This shift has caught the attention of pet owners and parents alike. Floors that can handle toy trucks, dragged chairs, and busy paws are high on many wish lists. “People who once dismissed laminate are taking another look,” Sheel notes.
THINKING BEYOND THE PRICE TAG
Luxury vinyl remains popular, but Sheel encourages homeowners to pause before choosing the lowest-priced option. "I spend time helping people understand what they're actually getting, not just price, but performance, durability, and how it fits their lifestyle. Once people see the full picture, they usually feel confident about what to choose,” shared Sheel.
Flooring affects how a home functions day to day. While budget-friendly choices make sense at times, many homeowners are reassessing long-term value. A recent article in This Old House suggests that 61% of homeowners plan to borrow money for
home renovations. And carpets are one of the many renovations that can be financed. “It’s not just about what it costs today,” Sheel adds. “It’s about how it performs year after year.”
MAKING FLOORS LAST LONGER
Not ready to replace your floors? Good care habits can stretch their lifespan.
For carpet, regular vacuuming matters more than many realize. “Not vacuuming is the number one reason carpets wear out,” Sheel says. Dust and grit break down fibers over time. Robotic vacuums can help with daily upkeep, while spills should be blotted quickly. Time works against stains, so fast action helps. Always test cleaners in a hidden area and follow manufacturer guidelines. Use caution with very high-suction vacuums, as some carpets may not be covered under warranty if damaged.
Hard surfaces like laminate and luxury vinyl require a lighter touch. A damp cloth often does the job. Skip steam and harsh chemicals, and avoid bleach altogether. Natural cleaners usually handle messes well, and manufacturer websites offer specific guidance for tougher stains.
Hardwood floors benefit from realistic expectations. Scratches happen. Protective finishes help, but chemicals can wear them down. Products made specifically for wood floors are best. Sheel also points out a simple trick many homeowners overlook: “There are fillers, markers, and pens that can blend scratches surprisingly well.”
Humidity plays a role, too. Hardwood expands and contracts with seasonal changes. In Minnesota, keeping indoor humidity around 30–40% can reduce gaps and buckling. A central humidifier may be a small addition that pays off over time.
As trends evolve and care habits improve, one thing remains true: the right flooring choice, and how you treat it, shapes how a home feels for years to come.
realty report
Spaces Designed for Spring Living
As spring arrives, discerning buyers are drawn to homes that feel light, welcoming, and thoughtfully
for
From
gathering spaces to kitchens and outdoor areas that invite connection, highlighting a home that flows effortlessly from season to season can elevate its appeal in today’s market. For sellers, spring brings fresh opportunity.
ARTICLE BY LISA BRAINER
Spring Features Buyers Love
TIMELESS FEATURES FOR SPRING LIVING
Light-Filled Living Spaces
Homes filled with natural light feel open, uplifting, and welcoming. Large windows, neutral palettes, and open layouts create spaces that feel fresh and adaptable for both everyday living and entertaining.
Primary Suites as Retreats
A well-designed primary suite offers calm and restoration. Thoughtful finishes, spa-inspired bathrooms, and comfortable layouts transform bedrooms into personal sanctuaries that buyers truly value.
Kitchens Made for Living
Today’s kitchens balance style with practicality. Buyers value clean design, ample storage, and gathering-friendly layouts that support daily routines while still feeling elevated and inviting.
Indoor-Outdoor Flow
Seamless transitions to patios, decks, and outdoor living areas extend usable space. As warmer months approach, buyers appreciate homes that naturally connect indoor comfort with outdoor enjoyment.
Curb Appeal That Welcomes
Strong first impressions matter. Fresh landscaping, inviting entryways, and well-maintained exteriors set the tone, signaling care, quality, and pride before buyers step inside.
MARCH 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 6TH
First Friday Fun at the Eagan Art House
3981 Lexington Ave S, Eagan, MN 55123 | 5:30 PM
Join the Eagan Art House team for some creative fun! Drop in anytime between 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm. No registration required, all supplies provided. This month's activity will be Playing with Pattern: Shibori-Inspired Bandanas! The Eagan Art House encourages everyone to live creatively through various arts programming!
MARCH 8TH
Eagan Funfest Ambassador Bowling Fundraiser at Cedarvale Lanes
3883 Cedar Grove Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55122 | 1:00 PM
Join the Eagan Funfest Ambassador Scholarship Program for a bowling fundraiser for friends, family, and royalty! Sunday, March 8, 1:00–3:00 PM at Cedarvale Lanes in Eagan. Cost is $20 per person for two hours of bowling—pay at the event. Our silent auction is back, too, so come ready to bid. Thanks for supporting our scholarship program!
MARCH 11TH
Eagan's Indoor Market
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 4:00 PM
Stock up on local favorites—or discover something new—at Eagan’s Indoor Market! Shop cheese, frozen pork, strudel, baked goods, sauces, canned goods, coffee, and more! Visit facebook.com/cityofeagan for the vendor list, posted the week of the event.
CONTINUED
MARCH 14TH
Let's Get Growing
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 8:00 AM
Let’s Get Growing is an event for home gardeners of all skill levels looking to learn more and have a great time. This event includes classes, a keynote speaker, lunch, silent auction and a chance to win door prizes too. Classes are taught by U of M Master Gardeners as well as horticulture professionals. Register at https://www.dakotamastergardeners. org/lets-get-growing.
MARCH 20TH, 21ST, & 22ND
Spring Craft & Gift Show
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121
Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Spring Craft & Gift Show at the Eagan Community Center! With free admission, this three-day event features 170+ vendors offering handcrafted goods, unique gifts, jewelry and permanent jewelry, clothing, wellness and skincare, woodworking, metal art, and more. Discover local artisans and small businesses—plenty of inspiration and one-of-a-kind finds, all under one roof.
MARCH 28TH
Eagan Home Show
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 10:00 AM
From remodeling, decks, windows, and bathrooms to landscaping, driveways, and everything in between, the Eagan Home Show has you covered. It’s your one-stop shop for trusted resources, show-only savings, and Twin Cities home pros ready to help— without pressure. Explore up to 200 exhibitors for projects big or small, indoors or out, plus free parking, giveaways, and exclusive deals.
