Does winter really start before the first game of pond hockey is played in Minnesota? Whether you're a hockey fanatic or you simply love reviving the traditions of winter with friends, there's nothing like a little pond hockey to get the blood pumping on a chilly day. Given that long tradition, it's only natural that the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships are played on "The Pond" at Lake Nokomis Park in Minneapolis. We are ready for the action, and we've got the details on how to enjoy the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships in 2020.

U.S. Pond Hockey Championships

Dates: January 23 – 26, 2020

Location: Lake Nokomis Park – 4955 W. Lake Nokomis Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55417

• Follow the Path of the Legends of the Pond
  Always a highlight of the season close to Minneapolis homes for sale, the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships are now entering their 15th years of family fun. What started as a passion project of founder Fred Haberman has grown into the biggest and best pond hockey tournament you'll find anywhere. There are more than 650 games played on 28 rinks over the course of the three-day event, with tons of teams across all age levels and just as many volunteers who help make the magic happen. Whether you're playing in the games, cheering on your favorite squad from the sidelines, or volunteering to help make the event happen, the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships are a special time for everyone involved.

Just like summer, winter is a viable time to sell your home. The seriousness of buyers and a limited number of homes on the market can quickly make your home a hot property that will draw multiple offers. By upping the cozy factor, paying attention to detail, properly positioning your property's unique attributes, and pricing it right, you can make your house really stand out. Our real estate agents share their top tips and tricks for making the most of a wintery house sale.

• Keep the House Warm
  One of the most dispiriting parts of house hunting during winter is walking into a cold home. You may be tempted to turn down the heater to save a few hundred dollars. But a chilly reception does not give a good first impression. Buyers will be out and on to the next warm house or their warm cars. Lighting a fire or turning up the heat to make the house warm provides a comforting feeling and motivates buyers to linger. It also lets potential buyers know the house is in working order and gives you more of an opportunity to get an offer.

Local craft breweries have been delivering unique flavors for decades, and one of the latest trends in brewing will be music to the taste buds of anyone who loves to try new spins on classic brews. The milkshake IPA is a thick, full-bodied beer, with sweet, fruity flavors that will remind you of a trip to your favorite ice cream shop. As always, breweries around the Twin Cities are on top of the latest trends, and the milkshake IPA is no exception. Our real estate agents know all of the best local spots, and we've got the inside scoop on six local breweries where you can sample a milkshake IPA.

Where to Order a Milkshake IPA Around Minneapolis

• Dangerous Man Brewing Company – 1300 NE 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN 55413
  It's easy to enjoy delicious craft beer close to Minneapolis homes for sale, thanks to legendary local destinations like Dangerous Man Brewing Company. Stop by the taproom to enjoy a milkshake IPA in a cozy, scenic setting, schedule your own party in the special event space, or visit the growler shop to bring home a healthy helping of your favorite brew.

Securing pre-approval for a home loan is as good as money in the bank. It makes it possible for our real estate agents to help focus your home search, and it gives you an advantage at the negotiation table. However, your pre-approved status doesn't last forever, and you'll want to carefully read the lender's terms and conditions so that you don't get pre-approved too early.

The 60- to 90-Day Window

It can take anywhere from three days to a week for a lender to review your pre-approval application. Once approved, most mortgage pre-approvals are valid for between 60 to 90 days. In limited cases this window may extend out to 180 days. This is a short window so you want to maximize your efforts during this period. It's a short period because there is a possibility your credit score will change the more time elapses.