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A Contract for Deed Success Story in Minnesota
Dated: May 11 2026
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Brian Zimpel
RE/MAX Professionals | Minnesota Contract for Deed Expert
Case Study: A Contract for Deed Success Story in Minnesota
Sometimes, having a large down payment and a strong income isn't enough for traditional banks. Many hardworking Minnesotans find themselves locked out of homeownership due to strict, inflexible lending rules. Here is how we helped a local self-employed business owner bypass the bank and secure their family's dream home using a Contract for Deed.
The Challenge: The Self-Employed Trap
Our client ran a highly successful, growing business in the Twin Cities. They had a 20% down payment saved up in cash and the monthly income to comfortably afford a luxury home. The problem? Traditional mortgage lenders require two full years of tax returns for self-employed buyers. Because their business was only 18 months old, every bank denied their loan application. They were tired of throwing money away on rent and wanted to buy a home now, not in six months.
Our 3-Step Strategy for Success
Step 1: Bypassing the Bank entirely
We knew traditional lenders were blocking their path, so we shifted our strategy entirely to Seller Financing (Contract for Deed). Under this structure, the seller or a private investor acts as the bank. Because CD investors don't have to follow strict federal underwriting guidelines, they look at the whole picture. Our client's strong cash down payment and proven business revenue made them an ideal candidate.
Step 2: Finding the Perfect Property
Many buyers mistakenly believe that buying on a Contract for Deed means settling for a limited selection of homes. That is a myth. Through our specialized investor programs, we were able to help our clients shop the entire Minnesota MLS. They found their dream home, and our investor partner purchased it for them in cash, turning around and selling it to our clients on a Contract for Deed.
No Bank Qualifying Self-Employed Friendly Shop the Entire MLS Immediate Move-In
Step 3: The Path to Traditional Ownership
We structured the Contract for Deed with a 3-year term. This gave our clients immediate equitable title to the home—meaning they got the keys, moved their family in, and gained all the benefits of homeownership. More importantly, it gave their business the time it needed to hit that 2-year tax return milestone required by traditional banks.
The Final Results
45 Days to Move-In
20% Down Payment
100% Homeowner
Our clients didn't have to wait. They moved into their dream home, built equity, and eventually refinanced into a traditional mortgage once their business seasoned. A total success!
Want These Results For Your Family?
If self-employment, a recent career change, or a past credit issue is keeping you trapped in the rental cycle, a Contract for Deed might be your perfect solution. We specialize in connecting Minnesota buyers with investor programs and flexible sellers to bypass the banks.
Explore Contract for Deed Options
Brian Zimpel
RE/MAX Professionals | MN Real Estate Expert
📠Minnesota Contract for Deed Homes & Service Areas
Brian Zimpel provides expert traditional and Contract for Deed services throughout the Twin Cities metro area.
Brian Zimpel
Meet Brian Zimpel – Your Trusted Minnesota Realtor Hi, I’m Brian Zimpel, a top-rated realtor with REMAX Professionals, helping buyers and sellers throughout Minnesota and the Twin Cities. Whether....
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