Lake Life

Local Fun: 5 Ways to Celebrate Summer Up North

27 May 2025
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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.

Hidden Gems: 5 Minnesota Lakes to Explore This Summer

1 May 2025
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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
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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.

How to Prepare Your Cabin for a Spectacular Season

1 March 2025
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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. 

Maximizing Exposure: How Bill Hansen Realty Markets Your Unique Property

3 February 2025
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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
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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.

How to Make Your Cabin Cozy and Energy Efficient in Winter

6 January 2025
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Vacation Property

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.

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

26 November 2024
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Vacation Property

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.

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

18 November 2024
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Northern Minnesota Things to Do, Vacation Property

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!

Helpful Tips for Happy Hunting Up North

3 October 2024
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

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.