Author: BHRadmin20

Local Fun: 5 Ways to Celebrate Summer Up North

27 May 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

Summer is almost here—which means it’s time to find some ways to celebrate. Thankfully, northern Minnesota has no shortage of events and festivals. If you’re staying in the area this summer, be sure to put some of these on your calendar.

Turtle Fest: Every Wednesday, June 11–August 13, 2025

This Longville tradition started back in the 1960s and is continuing again this year. Each Wednesday around 1 p.m., the main street downtown becomes a mini county fair with games, music, and dancing for children of all ages. At 2 p.m., race participants can choose a turtle they want to see compete for a fee of $5. Prizes are awarded to the fastest turtle as well as the “slow poke.” It’s the perfect event for the whole family to enjoy. See more details here.

Lakeside Concert Series: Every Friday, June 13–August 29, 2025

There’s nothing better than live music in the summertime. Every Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., enjoy tunes from various artists at the Birch Lake Pavillion. Whether you’re out for a walk, boat ride, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, you’re welcome to stop by weekly for this free event. See details here along with a list of bands scheduled to perform.

Independence Day Celebration in Longville: July 4, 2025

Celebrate the 4th of July in downtown Longville this year. Enjoy a variety of food vendors, inflatables, and games that the whole family can participate in. The parade starts at 11 a.m. followed by more games, contests, and races. Stick around into the evening for a spectacular fireworks display over Girl Lake beginning at dusk. See more information here.

Sweetheart Days: July 9–15, 2025

Hackensack’s annual Sweetheart Days are a community tradition, so don’t miss out on this week of fun. This year’s events include a dachshund derby, pet parade, kids’ fishing contest, cornhole tournament, and more. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and fireworks. See more information about this year’s week-long event here.

Arts off 84 Art Crawl: August 30–31, 2025

It’s never too early to plan for Labor Day weekend fun. Arts off 84 Art Crawl promotes the work of local artists from Longville and surrounding areas Up North. From high-end art to handcrafted items, this is a great way to support local artists—or sell art of your own. See details here.

From music to turtle racing, Minnesota has it all when it comes to fun summer traditions. Need an excuse to go Up North? Reach out to our team at Bill Hansen Realty to learn more about what makes this area so special and for helping finding your own slice of land.

Investment Cabins: What Buyers Need To Know In 2025

27 May 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

In recent years, investment properties for use as short-term rentals have become a popular option for people wanting another source of income. Many guests enjoy staying somewhere with more space, comfort, and privacy than a hotel. Depending on the location and offerings, a short-term rental property can be an extremely good investment.

If you’ve been interested in purchasing an investment property, such as a cabin or lake home, here are a few things you should consider first.

How Short-Term Rentals Work

Short-term rentals are properties that are typically rented out for fewer than 30 days. Many of them are posted on sites like Airbnb or VRBO. These sites make it easy for those interested in staying to book directly through the website. As the owner, you are the one responsible for handling bookings, inquiries, and interactions with guests.

Where are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Short-term rentals are not allowed everywhere. Before you purchase a property with the intention of turning into a short-term rental, you need to make sure it’s allowed in the area. Different cities, counties, and HOAs have rules and regulations regarding rentals. This may affect the length of time someone is allowed to rent—or whether short-term rentals are allowed at all. Additionally, specific permits may also be required.

Maintaining a Short-Term Rental

An important aspect to consider when managing a short-term rental property is keeping up with maintenance. You will be responsible for cleaning the indoor spaces, maintaining the yard, keeping items stocked, and making necessary repairs. If you purchase an investment property far away from your existing home, you will likely need to hire a team to help with cleaning and maintenance.

Impacts on the Community

There are mixed opinions on whether short-term rentals help or harm small communities. Some neighborhoods frown upon short-term rentals since guests can be unpredictably loud and disruptive. Constantly having new people in and out of a home also takes away from the close-knit feel that some neighborhoods have. However, short-term rentals can help boost the local economy by bringing more tourists to the area, benefitting local businesses and their employees.

If you’ve been curious about an investment property Up North, reach out to our team. We can answer any questions you may have about rental cabins and the best areas to start your search. We know the area better than anyone and will help you find a cabin that serves your needs for years to come.

How to Find the Perfect Cabin for Rentals, Getaways, and More

1 May 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog

How to Find the Perfect Cabin for Rentals, Getaways, and More

Cabins serve many purposes. They can be great places to relax and unwind away from the busyness of city life. They also make fantastic gathering spaces for reunions with friends and family. If you’re on the hunt for a cabin, make sure that you’re keeping its use in mind when looking at amenities, features, and location. Here are a few things to consider, depending on how you want to use your cabin.

Cabins for Remote Workers

One benefit of remote work is that you can work from anywhere—including your cabin. Internet access is important, and options may be more limited when you’re looking at properties outside of cities. Be sure to look into internet options available in the area you’re considering. It also may be a good idea to look for a home with a designated office space where you can set up your computer and other equipment.

Cabins for Weekend Getaways

If you’re planning on using your cabin for regular weekend getaways with your family, be sure to consider the location. How far from home are you willing to drive each weekend? Do you want to be near a town or in a more rural area? Think about other features you and your family might want or enjoy as well, such as the yard size, water access, and more.

Cabins for Short-term Rentals

If you’re considering getting a cabin to use as a short-term rental, think about the size of groups you want to host. If you want to market to large groups or families, you’ll want a spacious lake home as opposed to a smaller, cozy cabin if you’re marketing to couples or for solo getaways. Also consider location, since many travelers may want easy access to lakes, restaurants, and local shops.

Cabins for Seasonal Rentals

As opposed to short-term rentals, seasonal cabins may be rented out for multiple months at a time. If you’re wanting to invest in a long-term rental for the summer months, you may want to find a cabin that’s not too far from local attractions and shops that visitors can enjoy. You’ll also want to make sure the home has amenities such as a washer, dryer, full kitchen, and shower or bath to ensure it’s comfortable for long-term stays.

Whatever you’re looking for in a cabin, be sure you’re working with an experienced team who knows the market Up North in Minnesota. Our team would be happy to help you on your search. Contact us to learn more and find the perfect lake home for you and your guests.

Hidden Gems: 5 Minnesota Lakes to Explore This Summer

1 May 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

In the land of 10,000 lakes, there is no shortage of beautiful Minnesota beaches to visit this summer. From fishing to swimming, there are plenty of water activities to enjoy. If you’re looking to explore some new lakes Up North this year, here are a few lesser-known spots worth visiting.

Woman Lake

If you’re looking for a great place to fish for walleye, don’t pass up Woman Lake in Cass County. This lake is stocked with walleye as well as Northern, perch, bass, and more. It has three public access spots, making it perfect for bringing your boat and spending an afternoon on the water.

Caribou Lake

This is known as the clearest natural lake in all of Minnesota. Located in Itasca County near Marcell, Caribou Lake has spring-fed crystal waters with up to 40-foot clarity. It’s another great spot for fishing as it hosts trout, bass, and more.

Deer Lake

Also called the “Lake of the Changing Colors,” Deer Lake in Itasca County is another clear-water lake with stunning hues of blues and greens. Although it may look warm and tropical, the water is actually very cold. However, it’s definitely worth stopping at for a quick dip on a summer day.

Lake of the Woods

This lake lies on the border between Minnesota and Canada. Surrounded by remote forests, this lake boasts year-round fishing and is a great place to truly disconnect and get away. It’s also the sixth largest lake that lies partially within the United States.

Crane Lake

Crane Lake is another lake located in rural, northern Minnesota. This stunning lake has a rich history and is an ideal spot to surround yourself with nature. Located in Saint Louis County near the Canadian border, it’s the perfect place to explore for a weekend vacation.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer getaway for the summer, Minnesota has plenty of stunning lakes that are worth visiting. Curious about owning a property on or near a Minnesota lake? Reach out to our team at Bill Hansen Realty. We would be happy to chat with you and answer any questions about lake life Up North.

4 Ways to Maintain and Protect your Shoreline

31 March 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Vacation Property

Living on a lake offers a lifestyle of peace and connection to nature but it also comes with important responsibilities. One that can sometimes go overlooked is maintaining your shoreline, especially before starting big landscaping projects. Shoreline maintenance can feel overwhelming, especially for those new to owning a lakeside property who don’t know where to start. Here are 4 things to consider when it comes to keeping your shoreline healthy.

Take Steps to Avoid Shore Erosion

Shoreline erosion happens when a lake’s waves gradually eat away at the land, causing a noticeable drop from the edge of the land down to the water. Erosion can cause problems for wildlife and plants as well as make it difficult for people to access the lake. Erosion can be mitigated by allowing natural resources, such as vegetation, rocks, and other materials, to be naturally maintained with limited interference. Additional ways to prevent erosion include preventing runoff from patios or decks, and being mindful of no wake zones when boating.

Protect the Shore and Native Plants

When cleaning up your shoreline, it’s tempting to want to remove everything that’s growing. While it’s fine to remove a limited number of plants if they are obstructing your view or access to the water, you should not remove all vegetation. It’s recommended to leave as much of it alone as possible to ensure a healthy ecosystem, as well as avoid unnecessary shore erosion. If you do need to remove significant plant growth or make other major landscaping changes, be sure you acquire a permit and get approval first.

Manage Weeds

While native plants are important to maintain, weeds are usually safe to remove. Weeds that grow in the water are often a nuisance for boats and can make it dangerous to swim in the water. They can also choke out the healthy plants that are growing. The most effective way to remove weeds is by pulling them out by hand or raking them out of the water. Weed killer is usually not recommended as it can harm the water and surrounding vegetation.

Test the Water Quality

Water quality is an often overlooked part of maintaining your shoreline. Poor water quality can lead to algae blooms, increased weed growth, poor habitats for fish and other wildlife, and can even play a part in shoreline erosion. Knowing the quality of your lake’s water can help to determine the health of your shoreline and if any steps may be needed to ensure the wellbeing and longevity of your property.

Shoreline maintenance can be hard work, but having a healthy lakeside is definitely worth it. Still dreaming about owning your own lake home? Turn that dream into a reality this spring by contacting us at Bill Hansen Realty. Our team is here and ready to help you find the perfect place.

Rural Minnesota: How to Navigate Septic Systems, Wells, and Zoning Laws

31 March 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Owning a property in a rural area comes with freedom, but it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining your water systems and ensuring you’re following specific zoning laws. Whether you just bought a rural property or are considering selling yours soon, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure to keep top of mind. Remember that laws and regulations for septic systems, wells, and zoning often vary by county, so you’ll want to check for specific details on your area.

Septic Systems

Septic systems are generally inspected every three years and pumped every three to five years. However, this can vary depending on several factors, including household size, septic tank size, and the amount of wastewater that’s typically generated. If your home has a septic system, it’s important to be extra conscious about the amount of water you’re using. Consider upgrading to water-saving appliances such as high-efficiency toilets, washing machines, and showerheads.

Wells

When you have a septic system, you’ll also want to be checking your well regularly to make sure everything is working order. Check the casing and well cap for cracks or holes, and keep the area free of debris. The top of the well should be at least one foot above the ground. Testing your well water is important to ensure that there are no contaminants that can lead to illness. Contact the county’s public health services or a laboratory for further instructions on testing your water.

Zoning Laws

Zoning laws vary by city and county, but they are put in place to help preserve parts of the land. If you’re considering making a change to your property, such as expanding your existing home, building a new structure, or doing extensive landscaping along your shoreline, you will need to get approval and a permit before starting. Failure to abide by zoning laws can result in large fines and trouble with selling your property in the future. If you have any questions about the zoning laws in your area, contact the planning and zoning department of your city or county.

Rural properties can make beautiful homes and relaxing getaways, but it’s important to remember the maintenance they require. At Bill Hansen Realty, we’re familiar with all the unique aspects of buying, selling, and owning a property Up North in Minnesota. If you have questions, reach out; we’re here to serve as your trusted resource.

How to Prepare Your Cabin for a Spectacular Season

1 March 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Vacation Property

Even if it doesn’t quite look like it yet, summer will be here before we know it. If you haven’t been at your cabin all winter, or have only visited occasionally, it’s time to start thinking about how to prep your space for the summer months. From stocking up on essentials to checking for damage that may have occurred over the winter, there’s plenty to get ready for as we head into spring.

Inspect the Exterior

Start by checking the yard and outside of your cabin for any damage that may have happened over the winter. Clear away any branches that have fallen and walk around the outside of your cabin to check for any damage to the siding, windows, deck, or roof. Take note if you find any visible water damage or holes in the siding or window screens.

Inspect the Interior

Just like you did outside, do a quick inspection of the inside of your cabin. Check doors, windows, and other thresholds, as well as inside cupboards and behind furniture. Keep an eye out for water damage or signs of pests, such as holes in the walls, chewed electric cords, or droppings.

Turn on Utilities

Next, turn on your water and other utilities that may have been shut off for the winter. Check your furnace and water heater, replace filters, check softeners, and schedule any maintenance work that’s needed. You may also want to check kitchen appliances, pipes, vents, and other mechanical functions throughout your cabin.

Check Detectors, Alarms, and Cameras

Make sure your cabin is safe and secure before opening for the season. Check and replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check the expirations date on any fire extinguishers. If you have any security cameras or alarm systems, test and updated those as needed.

Restock Your Necessities

Finally, go through your cabinets and make a list of food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and other items that you need to stock up on. Are any light bulbs burned out? Are you out of bug spray? Start a list of indoor and outdoor necessities to purchase as you open up your space for the summer.

Whether you’ve been staying at your cabin over the winter or are just opening it up again for the first time this year, it’s helpful to walk through and get a read on everything before getting away for the summer. Still searching for your ideal lakeside home? Our team at Bill Hansen Realty can point you in the right direction and help you find a place to enjoy just in time for summer. 

What Makes Waterfront Property So Valuable? Insights from Northern Minnesota

1 March 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Having a home near the water is something many people dream about. Waterfront property is always in demand and often comes with a higher price tag than other properties. What makes it so valuable? And what features are buyers looking for? Here are a few of the reasons why people seek out a home on the lake and some of the factors that go into its value.

Waterfront Homes Offer Easy Access to Lakeside Activities

By far the biggest draw of a home on the lake is access to the fun and tranquility of the lake lifestyle. From boating and paddleboarding in the summer to ice fishing and ice skating in the winter, living by a lake offers a wide variety of leisure, recreational, and adventurous activities, year-round. This also makes it a great place to host family and friends.

Cabins on the Water Get You into Nature

While most folks get grass and trees for a yard, those of us Up North get a whole other biome. Living near a body of water means that you get to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife. Being near the water also cultivates an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, especially if you’re far away from busy cities. It makes these spots an ideal place to unwind and truly get away.

Limited Supply of Lakeside Homes

While there is no shortage of lakes in Minnesota, waterfront property is still a limited resource. There will always be more properties that don’t have water access compared to those that do, so this drives up the value. It also makes them a good opportunity for investment.

Additional Property Value Factors

All waterfront property is valuable, but these factors can give certain lakeside properties an edge over others:

  • Water quality: Cleaner lakes are more desirable since they’re better for swimming and fishing.
  • Size of the lake: Larger lakes are more sought after since they allow more space for boating and recreational activities.
  • Views: The view of the water is often important to buyers, so having an unobstructed view of the lake can help raise a home’s value.
  • Property features: Features such as docks, landscaping, or sandy beaches appeal to buyers.
  • Location: Waterfront properties near larger towns or popular areas are worth more than those in extremely rural areas.

Waterfront properties are not only enjoyable now, but they can also be a great investment for the future. If you’re looking to buy or sell a lakeside home Up North, our team at Bill Hansen Realty has you covered with the resources you need. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

Maximizing Exposure: How Bill Hansen Realty Markets Your Unique Property

3 February 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Selling your cabin can be a daunting task. If you’re ready to list your home but feeling overwhelmed, our team at Bill Hansen Realty is ready to help. As the area’s #1 selling agent team, we know the cabin market inside and out and we convert leads into closings. Here are a few of the ways that we work to make sure your cabin Up North gets seen by the right buyer and sells for what it’s worth.

In-Person Promotion

At Bill Hansen Realty, we go above and beyond to connect buyers with the perfect property. We showcase our listings at the Northwest Sportshow in Minneapolis and the St. Cloud Sportshow in St. Cloud—two of the top events for Minnesota outdoor enthusiasts seeking their own getaway. Additionally, our team of agents are local residents and experts on the region. Our three strategically located offices in the heart of lake country, provide maximum opportunity for our knowledgeable team to actively promote your listing to walk-in buyers and serious cabin seekers.

Professional Photography and Videography

We want your property to look its absolute best, which is why we invest in professional photographers and videographers to get shots of your cabin and surrounding property. High-quality photos and videos help listings stand out online and make them more appealing to potential buyers. By prioritizing this early effort, we will position your home to capture as many serious shoppers as possible.

Direct Mail and Social Media Marketing

While we value in-person promotion, we also do direct mail and digital marketing campaigns to get the word out about our listings. This includes a variety of regular social media postings, leveraging professional photos and videos, and highlighting your property until it’s sold. These forms of marketing help us extend our reach and get even more eyes on your cabin so that we can find the right buyer.

Highlighting Up North Living

We recognize that when selling your property, we’re also selling the Up North lifestyle. This is why we also promote everything else lake life has to offer—from the beauty of the water and surrounding nature to the communities and events happening in the area. Our staff is deeply involved in our local communities, so we know just what to highlight when it comes to selling buyers on a property in the area.

At Bill Hansen Realty, we want you to feel confident in trusting us with your cabin. We’re here to be your trusted resource before, during, and after your sale. Contact us with any questions you have or if you have a property you’re looking to sell. We’d be happy to chat with you and guide you through the process.

4 Foundational Tips for a Successful Ice Fishing Season

3 February 2025
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

It’s not winter Up North without spending some time on the ice. Whether you’ve been ice fishing for years or it’s a new hobby of yours, it’s important to brush up on the basics to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time in the great outdoors. Here are some foundational tips to review before heading out.

Take Safety Precautions

Before venturing onto the ice, you need to ensure it’s thick enough. Drill a hole close to shore and measure the thickness of the ice before going out further. Ice should be at least 4 inches thick before walking on it and at least 12 inches thick before driving on it. It’s best to go out with at least one other person and leave a detailed itinerary with a friend so they know where you are and when to expect you back.

Dress Appropriately

Wearing the right clothing is crucial to not only staying comfortable but also avoiding frostbite. Dressing in layers is a good idea since it allows you to remove clothing if you start to overheat or add clothing if you get cold. Moisture-wicking clothing is recommended since you’ll be out in the elements. Another good practice is wearing a life jacket or a snowsuit with flotation features to keep you safe in case you fall through the ice.

Bring the Proper Equipment

Here are a few of the essentials you’ll want to pack for ice fishing: 

  • An ice pick
  • An ice augur for drilling holes
  • A portal fish finder device
  • Rod and reel combos
  • Ice fishing-specific lines
  • Baits, lures, and other tools
  • An ice sled for transporting gear

Portable ice shelters are also a good idea for those who plan on fishing for long periods of time or go ice fishing on a regular basis.

Choose the Right Time

The best time of day to go ice fishing is typically around sunrise or sunset since this is when fish are the most active. The beginning and end of the ice fishing season (late fall and early spring) tend to be where people have the most success. The middle of winter may be slower for finding fish, but don’t let this stop you from going outside and enjoying time on the ice.

These tips will be a helpful starting point for those looking to get onto the lake this winter. And if you’re looking for a slice of property Up North to host your own ice fishing weekend, our team at Bill Hansen Realty would love to help. We specialize in cabins and lake-front property so we can help you find the perfect place near the water to enjoy for many seasons to come.