Minnesota real estate agent will trade property for Magic: The Gathering cards

March 24, 2026 - 18:32

In a novel approach to the housing market, a Minnesota real estate agent is accepting a unique form of currency: rare trading cards. The agent, Kurtis Russo, has announced he is willing to trade property listings directly for high-value cards from the popular game Magic: The Gathering.

The unconventional offer applies to his current listings, which include a $450,000 home in Isanti and a $260,000 property in Pine City. Russo, an avid collector himself, stated the idea is to attract a niche market of collectors who might have substantial assets in cards rather than traditional liquidity. He emphasized he is seeking officially graded cards, ensuring their authenticity and value, to facilitate a fair and secure transaction.

Interest in the unusual barter system appears strong. Russo reported that by noon on Tuesday, just hours after publicizing the offer, he had already fielded inquiries from three potentially serious parties. This innovative strategy highlights creative methods emerging in the real estate sector and blurs the lines between hobbyist collecting and major financial transactions.