Maximizing Exposure: How Bill Hansen Realty Markets Your Unique 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

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.

How to Make Your Cabin Cozy and Energy Efficient in Winter

The winter months in Minnesota can bring harsh temperatures and frigid windchills. When spending time at your cabin during the cold season, it’s important to know how to keep your place warm and cozy. However, there are a variety of methods for warming up your space, before turning to the thermostat.

Weatherize Your Windows

Windows are a great way to let natural light into your space, but they also create challenges when it comes to keeping your cabin warm. As a first line of defense, blinds and curtains help to keep heat in and cold out, and they even make thermal and heavy-duty curtains to help with this. But during the day, you want the light and views that windows provide, which is where window wrapping comes in. To wrap your windows, simply seal a thin sheet of plastic around your window frame with double-sided tape and shrink to fit with a hairdryer. This simple, affordable method adds insulation and boosts energy efficiency in winter.

Insulating Spaces

There are many ways that cold can seep into your cabin. Besides the windows, doors can also bring chilly drafts in through cracks. Inspect doorways, floorboards, and any other areas you suspect might be bringing the cold in and seal or fill any cracks or gaps. The attic is another area where insulation is critical, and if you’re having trouble keeping your cabin warm, it’s worth taking a look. While attic insulation can last several decades, it’s recommended to replace it every 15 years to be sure it’s doing its job.

Using a Wood-burning Stove or Fireplace

If your cabin has a wood-burning stove or fireplace, make use of it during the winter months. Stoves and fireplaces can warm up a space quickly, and they are a great way to keep your vacation home warm without driving up the electricity bills. Be sure your stove or fireplace is up-to-date on inspections before using, and always monitor your fire.

Including Cozy Décor

Lastly, having decor such as blankets, throw pillows, and rugs can make a space look cozy while being functional at the same time. When the temperatures drop, take that as a sign to bring out the blankets and cozy interior decor that you and your guests can use to stay warm on days that are particularly cold. Create a cozy atmosphere by adding some candles, houseplants, or even rearranging furniture to make a comfy sitting area where you can relax.

Keeping your cabin comfortable in the winter months is key to enjoying spending your time there. Plus, it’s important to maintain your cabin by filling cracks or replacing insulation to keep everything in great shape. If you’re looking for your perfect winter getaway Up North, contact us at Bill Hansen Realty and let us help you on your search.

Top Real Estate Trends of 2024: Reflecting on Last Year

It’s a new year in real estate, which means many people are looking ahead to the 2025 housing forecast. However, with 2024 now behind us, we are taking a moment to look back at some of the trends we saw in Minnesota real estate this past year. Here were a few things worth noting.

Low Inventory

This past year was in favor of sellers, which made it more difficult for those who were looking to buy. According to an analysis from Zillow, the U.S. was 4.5 million homes short of a healthy housing supply. With fewer homes for sale across the market, this meant that there was more competition between buyers.

High Interest Rates

2024 was another year of high interest rates, following the record-low rates that we saw during the pandemic. While they shifted slightly throughout the year, interest rates settled at around 6.7% by December on average for a 30-year mortgage. These rates made some people reconsider purchasing a home in 2024.

Difficulty for New Buyers

The combination of low inventory with high interest rates and housing costs made it difficult for first-time buyers looking to purchase their first home. Many people opted to continue renting and wait for interest rates to lower before purchasing a home. Others settled for purchasing smaller homes or homes in more affordable areas.

Short-Term Rental Popularity

Many people this past year turned to short-term rentals as a way to make a bit of extra income. Whether it was by renting out their own cabin or purchasing an investment property, many people listed their homes on sites like Airbnb and VRBO. These sites have grown in popularity in recent years, and cabins or lake houses have been especially popular options for those looking to rent a vacation home.

While 2024 wasn’t an optimal time to buy, it was a good year for those who were selling. This year, we’re predicting a shift in more housing supply and interest rates slowly continuing to trend downward. Whether you’re considering selling or buying a property Up North in 2025, our team at Bill Hansen Realty is here to help you make the best decision for your Minnesota vacation home.

Discover the Joy of Minimalism: Transform Your Cabin Life in 2025

It’s hard to believe that 2024 is almost over. As we look ahead to the new year, many of us are ready to clean up our spaces and get a fresh start. If you’re looking to simplify and clear out the clutter, here are a few ways to incorporate minimalism into your cabin life in 2025.

Find a Home for Everything

Loose items and clutter build up over time. Start your decluttering effort by finding homes for any loose items that you find laying around each room. If you don’t know where something belongs, put it in a bag or a bin. After you’ve found places for each item, go back to the items without homes and sort through them. Some of them might be worth donating, other items may still belong at the cabin, but they need a new place to be stored. Consider getting some new shelves or storage bins for these.

Simplify Kitchen Items

It can be easy to overcrowd the kitchen, especially if you don’t have much cupboard or counter space to begin with. From blenders to coffee makers, kitchen appliances take up a lot of space. Consider whether or not you use all of these items at your cabin. For example, if you’re not regularly baking things from scratch, some of your baking appliances and pans can be brought home or donated. Keep only what you use on a regular basis.

Sort through Games, Movies, and Books

It’s a good idea to clean out entertainment items every so often, especially if you’re prone to collecting more over the years. Donate the ones that you no longer use, or that your family has outgrown. If you’re planning on buying new games, books, or movies, leave some extra space for those and consider a one-in, one-out policy to keep the area organized.

Rethink Décor

The new year can be a great time to reassess your cabin’s decor style and whether it’s time to swap some things out. If your walls are feeling cluttered, take everything down and start from scratch. Add things back slowly over time. Do the same with centerpieces, throw pillows, and other decor. Simplifying things first can help you determine what’s worth keeping, donating, or replacing.

The new year is the perfect time to reset your space and create a fresh atmosphere! Still looking for your perfect Minnesota getaway? Our team at Bill Hansen Realty is ready to bring your dreams to life. Contact us today and let us help.

3 More Pricing Strategies to Consider When Selling Your Northern Minnesota Cabin

Selling your cabin is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. From knowing when to sell to knowing who to work with, there are many factors to consider. Pricing your cabin is one of those areas that can be tricky. Earlier this year, we highlighted our top three pricing strategies for selling your cabin. Here are 3 more tips to consider when you’re ready to sell.

1. Highlighting Unique Features

Does your cabin have something that makes it unique? Whether you have obvious features that buyers are excited about, such as a hot tub or sauna, or more practical features, such as large picture windows or a new HVAC system, there are elements of any property that can be highlighted. At Bill Hansen Realty, we’re experienced in selling cabins and lake homes and can help you determine which of your cabin’s features might be a good selling point for potential buyers.

2. Choosing the Right Time of Year

Timing can be everything when it comes to buying and selling a property. That’s why at Bill Hansen Realty, we are here to offer our input and help you sell at the time that makes the most sense. Summer months are busy when it comes to people buying vacation homes Up North. This means that winter and spring months are a great time to prepare and make updates, so your cabin is ready to put on the market.

3. Making Appropriate Upgrades

The updates you choose to make will depend on the market and what buyers are looking for. Easy fixes such as patching and painting walls are often a good starting point. However, it may be worth getting an expert opinion before making significant or pricey upgrades, such as replacing appliances, landscaping, or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom.

Our team at Bill Hansen Realty is here to offer insight and advice when preparing your property to sell. If you’re ready to sell your cabin Up North in the new year, or even just considering the possibility, reach out! Our team at Bill Hansen Realty is ready to help. We’re happy to answer any questions as we partner with you to help your cabin sell for what it’s worth.

Creating a Christmas Wonderland at the Cabin: 5 Activities to Make it the Best Christmas Yet

Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner. If you’re planning to spend the holidays up at your cabin with your family, we have a few ways to get into the spirit and make this holiday season one to remember.

Get a Christmas Tree

Make it truly feel like Christmas by putting up a Christmas tree at your cabin. Whether you opt for a real tree or an artificial one, both can transform your space and make it feel more like home. Be sure to add some string lights and decorations, to create the most festive atmosphere.

Make Handmade Ornaments

When it comes to decorations, you may not want to bring your ornaments from home or spend money on new ones; handmade ornaments are a great alternative. It can also be a fun activity for the whole family. Handmade ornaments don’t have to be complicated. You can make paper snowflakes, popcorn garland, or use pinecones and other items found in nature to decorate your tree.

Bake Some Sweet Treats

Add a little sweetness to your holiday season by baking sugar cookies or your holiday dessert of choice. Sugar cookies are a fun option for kids since you can cut them into different shapes and decorate them with colored frosting and sprinkles. Plus, these pair well with a toasty cup of hot chocolate.

Get Outside & Embrace the Cold

Whether it’s snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or ice skating, there are many outdoor winter activities you can enjoy at your cabin (just make sure the ice is thick enough before stepping onto the lake). For families with young children, building a snowman or making snow angels are simple yet fun ideas to get kids outside and enjoying the winter weather. Even if there’s no snow, you can still go on a nature walk or do an outdoor scavenger hunt.

Watch Favorite Family Movies

It’s not the holidays without watching Christmas movies. And what’s better than curling up and enjoying these from your cabin? Get a fire going, turn on your Christmas tree lights, and enjoy watching a classic film such as White Christmas or Miracle on 34th Street. Maybe you’ll even find a new movie to enjoy.

From the snowy scenery to charming small towns, an Up North cabin in Minnesota makes for the perfect setting for the holiday season. And if you’re searching for a cozy place in time for Christmas, let us help you find the perfect getaway!

4 Essential Tips for Selecting the Best Realtor to Sell Your Cabin

Choosing to sell your property can be a difficult decision and often comes with plenty of questions and emotions. It’s important to partner with the right team to help make this process as smooth and seamless as possible. Here are 4 things to look for when partnering with a realtor to sellyour Northern Minnesota property.

Years of Trusted Experience

Working with an experienced realtor can help you feel confident in each decision you make during the selling process. You want to partner with someone who you can trust, who knows the ins and outs of selling, and who will be able to answer all of your questions along the way.

Local Market Knowledge

Along with general experience in real estate, knowledge of local markets is important when selling your cabin Up North. For example, selling a home in a rural area is different than selling a home in the city. At Bill Hansen Realty, our team knows the Northern Minnesota market inside and out, having lived and worked in this area for years. You can trust that our knowledge and expertise buying and selling in Northern Minnesota will help get the best value for your home.

Specialized in Selling Vacation Homes

It’s also crucial to choose a realtor who focuses on cabins or lakeside vacation homes. Selling this type of property requires some specific knowledge, such as maintenance and lakeshore regulations, that other realtors might not be aware of. Realtors who specialize in vacation properties also have insights into the features buyers are looking for and what aspects of your home can be highlighted.

A Team You Can Count On

Finally, you want to work with a team that you can trust has your best interests in mind. Our team at Bill Hansen Realty understands every aspect of selling a cabin or vacation home, and we offer personalized service and understanding at every step of the selling process. We’ll always keep you in the loop and advocate for your needs, helping you feel confident in your decision to sell.

If you’re looking to sell your cabin Up North, our team is ready to help. Contact us today and let us be your guide along the journey. We’re here to support you no matter where you’re at in the process, or where you’re going in the next season of life.

Why Sell with Us? Expert Advice, Personalized Support, and More

When it comes to selling your Northern Minnesota property—especially a cabin—it’s essential to partner with a real estate team that understands the unique market and lifestyle. At Bill Hansen Realty, we specialize in helping sellers navigate the complexities of Minnesota’s real estate landscape Up North. Here are three reasons why Bill Hansen Realty is the smartest choice you can make when selling your property.

1. Local Insights and Regional Expertise

With the housing market in a constant flux and buyers facing shifting challenges, you need a realtor who knows the area inside and out. Bill Hansen Realty is a trusted name in Northern Minnesota, with decades of experience selling cabins and vacation properties. We understand the nuances of waterfront zoning, seasonal buying patterns, and what buyers are looking for in the area. Our agents live and breathe the Northern Minnesota lifestyle, and they offer firsthand knowledge that will give you the edge when selling your property.

2. Specialized Focus on Cabins and Vacation Properties

Selling a cabin is different from selling a traditional home. It requires knowledge of lakeshore regulations, septic systems, seasonal maintenance, and more. Our agents at Bill Hansen Realty are well-versed in the intricacies of cabin ownership and know how to market your property to the right buyers. We highlight the features that make your property stand out—from breathtaking lake views to water access, and cozy wood-burning stoves to outdoor gathering spaces—we’ll make sure your cabin attracts serious, qualified buyers.

3. Personalized Service You Can Trust

Selling a home, especially one that holds cherished family memories, can be an emotional journey. That’s why our team at Bill Hansen Realty is dedicated to providing personalized service every step of the way. We practice open communication, keeping you informed with regular updates and feedback throughout the journey. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, and to be your advocate, your guide, and your partner along the way. Our experience and specialized process allows you to sell with confidence.

With countless moving parts and factors that can’t be controlled, selling a home is a complicated process. When you’re selling a beloved cabin, whether moving out of state or making room for a growing family, you need a team that knows the ins and outs Up North. If you’re thinking about selling your Minnesota cabin property, partner with Bill Hansen Realty—the experts who know the market, understand the lake lifestyle, and will work tirelessly on your behalf.

Helpful Tips for Happy Hunting Up North

Hosting a hunting weekend at your northern Minnesota cabin is a great way to experience the thrill of the outdoors while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your own property. With the beautiful backwoods Up North, there’s no better place to gather friends or family for a few days of adventure, relaxation, and quality time. Here’s how to make it a memorable event.

Prepare Your Cabin for Guests

Before your guests arrive, make sure your cabin is ready for a crowd. Stock up on firewood, lay out extra blankets, and ensure you have plenty of seating indoors and out. A hearty meal is always appreciated after a long day in the woods, so consider preparing a big batch of chili and fixings in advance, so that meal prep is quick and easy when you return to the cabin in the evening.

Gear Up and Get Out

Hunting gear is essential, and a little planning will go a long way. Confirm in advance that everyone has the proper licenses and equipment, and double-check that your firearms, ammunition, and safety gear are in good condition. Whether you’re after deer, grouse, or waterfowl, you might also consider a few extras like portable heaters, waterproof gear, and coolers for storing and transporting game will make your day notably more comfortable.

Scout Out Your Favorite Spots

Familiarize yourself with the hunting grounds around your property. Northern Minnesota offers a wide range of landscapes—from dense forests to open wetlands—each ideal for different types of hunting. Scouting the area before the weekend will help you identify the best spots for blinds or treestands. Inform your guests of any recommendations or important details before heading out, especially any special hunting rules and regulations for the area.

Enjoy Time Together at the Cabin

Hunting isn’t just about being out in the woods—it’s also about the company and camaraderie of time spent together. After a successful day, gather around the fire pit or in the cozy warmth of your cabin to swap stories and unwind. You could even plan some friendly competitions, like target shooting, to pass the time between hunts.

Hosting a hunting weekend at your family cabin offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cabin life comfort. It’s an opportunity to connect with the land and enjoy time with friends and family Up North. Soak in the changing of the seasons and the enjoy the one-of-a-kind beauty of northern Minnesota.

Hosting a hunting weekend at your family cabin brings together the best of outdoor adventure and cozy cabin life. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature and bond with friends and family while surrounded by the serene beauty of Northern Minnesota. From the crisp air and changing leaves to the thrill of adventure, it’s an experience that blends tradition, excitement, and retreat with the sense of belonging and togetherness we’ve all come to expect from a weekend Up North.