Lake Property

Buying any real estate can be an overwhelming process but buying a cabin comes with its own unique considerations. Here’s what to look for when you’re viewing a potential property.

Cabin Location

It’s critical to consider the location and accessibility of the property. While you can make changes to the building and accommodations, you cannot change the property’s location. Is it in an area that makes sense for you? Is it far enough for a getaway, but also close enough to “home?” Are the access roads well-maintained?

The Changing of the Seasons

There are dramatic swings in weather in Northern Minnesota. If you plan to be heading up to the cabin in the winter, don’t forget to think about the snow! Be sure to ask about winter access and how the roads are handled. Some cabin communities provide snow management, others leave you to handle this yourself.

The Cabin or Vacation Home Lot

Making changes to the lot will come at a considerable cost and require a lot of work down the line. Be sure to look at how water flows, naturally, through the property. Are there areas where rainwater has washed out the landscape? Are there problematic trees or other concerns with the lay of the land?

Water Properties and Quality

Water is a huge consideration and something to stay aware of when viewing potential cabins, especially if you’re looking at a waterfront property. Be sure to research the water you’re buying near. You may want to research how high the water levels get, especially during the Spring thaw and major rains. Also, consider the quality of water in the lake, and what kind of systems are needed for treating it.

Cabin Building Blocks

If you’re looking at rustic or log-style cabins, the building materials and structure itself are something to pay attention to. Log cabins should always be raised off the ground by rocks, concrete or other materials. There should be no rotting, large gaps, or cracks among the logs. The roof should overhang the walls to protect logs from rain and snow.

Cabin Usage

Make sure there is room for everyone! Is this cabin going to be a quiet family getaway? Or a shared, multi-family property? How many people will be staying here at the same time? It’s important to provide a bed for everyone, even if it requires sharing rooms. Sometimes cabins have “bunk rooms” that can sleep 4 or more people in the same space.

Maintenance for Your Vacation Home

All properties require maintenance, but cabins are unique. They may be older buildings, made with different materials than our standard homes. Keep an eye out for how the property has been maintained. How well have the previous owners cared for the cabin?

Terms of Sale

Make sure you understand the terms of the sale agreement and what is included in the price of the cabin. Are you just buying the lot and the building? Are there any appliances the owner is willing to leave behind? Is there any outdoor equipment such as docks, boats, or other lake toys, that may be included?

Buying any property can be overwhelming but viewing cabins “up north” should be a fun and exciting experience! With a trusted team by your side, it’s easy to keep track of all these details and enjoy your property viewing experience!

There’s still a bit of time left before winter is over and we’re ready to start making our weekend trips to the cabin. But it is never too early to be prepared! We’ve pulled together some tips to help you get prepared to open your cabin this spring! 

Make a Plan

Decide what needs to be done and make a list for both the inside and the outside. Don’t forget to check on your licenses for fishing and boating as well. Verify what items need to be renewed or purchased. Also be sure to have a plan to turn on any services that you had shut off for the winter. 

Do an Opening Inspection

Upon arriving, test your smoke and CO2 detector batteries. Turn on water and heating and inspect for any damage to the exterior that might have happened over the winter. 

Check for Critter Damage

Look for holes in your screens, siding, gnawed wires, or rodent droppings, and create a plan for removing or exterminating.

Restock Necessities

Create a list of items that are must-haves in your cabin. Restock non-perishable food items, your first aid kit, and other emergency supplies. 
While it might feel like a long way off, Springtime and cabin days will be here before you know it! Until then, keep an eye on our hot list for the latest properties on the market!

The pandemic caused some major changes to the Northern Minnesota housing market—especially in the vacation home market. More people were looking for escapes from their homes and cities and to spend time in nature. Fewer people were moving so, there was less inventory for buyers. This meant that sellers often had the upper hand, but also that rates for buyers were at an all-time low. As we move out of 2022 and into 2023 (three years after the pandemic began), we are seeing a shift. Here’s what you could expect from the housing market in 2023. 

There Will Be a Gradual Shift Toward Buyers

The “seller’s market” in the last few years has been tough on those looking to buy, even for those looking for vacation homes. But in 2023, there will be a sure, but gradual shift back toward a “buyer’s market”. That means that you’ll get better prices, and mortgage rates are predicted to stay relatively the same as they are now. You will also have more options to choose from and less competition when you make an offer! 

Rental Property Is Becoming a Lucrative Source of Income

Even if you’re looking for a vacation home to spend time with your family or friends, there are a ton of great opportunities to do long or short-term rentals to others for some extra income. With DIY rental apps such as VRBO and AirBnb, you can easily make your family cabin a substantial source of income. More and more people are opting for using these rental services instead of hotels when they travel so it could be a great way to make some extra money when you’re not at the cabin!If you’re curious about what else might be happening in the Housing Market in 2023, U.S. News has made lots of predictions for next year’s housing market. And as always, you can reach out to our team at Bill Hansen Realty to help guide you through buying your vacation home!

Hunting season in Northern Minnesota is upon us! Has it been your dream to have and build your own hunting property? Here are three tips to help you get started. 

Research Locations and Local Hunting Laws

Do your research and find ideal locations with options to buy bare land. Decide if you want to hunt on your own land, or on nearby hunting land. Check on the local laws and regulations surrounding hunting so that you know what to expect. Once you know your location you can start searching for land. 

Understand Your Financial Options

Are you planning to build right away or wait a few years? How much are you willing to spend? Creating a budget and creating expectations around the financial aspect of building your hunting cabin can help you plan and not become overwhelmed by the process. Contact your bank or research various lending options.

Get Connected with your Local Vacation Property Realtor

Another great place to start is by reaching out to a local vacation property realtor to help you understand your options. They will be able to connect you to potential financial lenders, and properties, and might even understand local hunting laws. When you find a professional and knowledgeable team as we have at Bill Hansen Realty, you can feel comfortable knowing that you are moving forward in the right direction. 
Let us be that vacation property realty team for you! Check out our current bare land properties and then give us a call!