Minnesota has a large number of real estate agencies, catering to the needs of people interested in buying or selling real estate within the state. These agencies provide services such as advice regarding sale and purchase of residential or commercial properties, evaluation of properties for mortgage, comparative market analysis, document preparation, full residential appraisal and marketing services. Though most of the large agencies are based in the capital, Minneapolis, they usually offer their services in terms of assistance and guidance for sale and purchase of real estates throughout the state of Minnesota.

In real estate jargon, sellers and buyers are called "principals" and the real estate agents are referred to as "agents." A real estate agent fills out a "Real Estate Contract." Typically, real estate agents are not authorized to sign any documents relating to the transfer of ownership of a property. Real estate agents put themselves down on the contract as the agents for each principal so that they can collect their commissions after successfully concluding the transaction.

The use of a real estate broker is not a mandatory requirement for the sale of real estate or for getting a mortgage loan from a lender. However, if an agent represents both the buyer and the seller, the agent is considered a dual agent. There are special laws applicable to the transactions carried out by dual agents, in order to protect the interests of both the buyer and the seller. Additionally, some real estate agents coordinate various aspects of the closing of a sale such as provision of title service including title search or title insurance, formal appraisals of the property as required by lenders with the help of appropriate specialists.

Some real estate brokers network with loan officers who may help finance buyers in their purchase. Information about the various real estate agencies in Minnesota and their contact details are available on the internet or the local directory.