Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida
As the streetcar system expanded further south, the opportunity for residential development became inevitable.
Knowing a community’s story helps you understand its neighborhoods today. Here’s a short history.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.
How Southwest began
This is the main reason that the southwest corner of Minneapolis was developed, and became known as the Southwest community. Parts of the community were originally part of Richfield but annexed to Minneapolis in the mid-1920s. Homes in the area began to rise up in the 1940s, and by 1960 most of the community was established.
Prior to annexation by the City of Minneapolis, the much of the area was was farm country. Throughout most of the nineteenth century, the area was a rural and full of rolling fields and pastures south and east of Lake Harriet. Declining economic conditions slowed development in the early 1900s, but with the extension of the streetcar line, the areas north and east of Minnehaha Creek were mostly developed by 1925, and the areas south and west of the creek developed during the 1930s and 40s.
In 1886, William Washburn (former US Senator from Minnesota) and other investors bought 200 acres of farmland near Minnehaha Creek for a wealthy residential development. It was purchased like this that allowed residential development to be dedicated to the city, along with parkland. Today, the community is one of the most coveted residential havens in Minneapolis.
A simple plan for your Minneapolis move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.
Getting the house ready, or making it yours
If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Your next step in Minneapolis
Minneapolis homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.
Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Minneapolis.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
Thank you! You’re on the list.
I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.
