Lake Property

Summer in Walker: 6 Fantastic Boating Spots Up North

3 July 2025
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Northern Minnesota Things to Do, Vacation Property

Summertime in Minnesota means time spent on one of the 10,000+ lakes that our beautiful state has to offer. Whether you enjoy fishing, waterskiing, or simply relaxing on the water, there are plenty of lake day opportunities Up North. Here are 6 boating destinations to add to your list to visit this summer.

Walker Bay – Leech Lake

Leech Lake has a lot to offer when it comes to boating. Spanning 112,000 acres, this lake has several bays and areas that boaters and fishers enjoy. Walker Bay is one of the more popular bays off of Leech Lake, and is well-loved by locals. With its typically calm waters, Walker Bay makes a great place for waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Sucker Bay – Leech Lake

Another bay off of Leech Lake is Sucker Bay. For fishing enthusiasts, this spot can’t be beat–the weeds and vegetation make it a prime spot for catching fish such as northern pike. It’s also a great spot to explore for those who simply want to get out on the water and experience a slice of this large body of water.

Tenmile Lake

At 208 feet at its deepest point, Tenmile Lake is one of the deepest natural lakes that’s entirely within Minnesota. This is another popular lake that boaters and fishers love. It’s home to a wide variety of fish species and makes a great getaway for sunset cruises, swimming, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Lake Winnibigoshish

Part of Chippewa National Forest, Lake Winnibigoshish (or Winnie, for short) is a large yet shallow lake. Fishers love it for the walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike, and boaters enjoy the vast space for exploring. If you’re looking to truly disconnect, Lake Winnibigoshish is the place to visit.

Cass Lake

Cass Lake is the largest of the eight lakes that make up the Cass Lake chain of lakes. This beautiful body of water is a fantastic fishing destination and home to a variety of fish, including perch that are up to 10–11 inches. It’s also a great place to cruise along in (or behind) the boat on a sunny, summer day.

Lake Bemidji

Last but certainly not least, Lake Bemidji is another popular spot for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. Lake Bemidji is connected to the Mississippi River and has clean water that is perfect for swimming and other water sports.

Northern Minnesota is truly the perfect place for a summer getaway. Ready to find your own vacation home Up North? Contact our team at Bill Hansen Realty and let us help you on your search.

How to Assess a Property’s Shoreline and Waterfront Features

3 July 2025
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Vacation Property

You’ve found the perfect lakeside property: the house has enough space, the yard is beautiful—but the shoreline isn’t very pretty. Does this mean the shoreline isn’t healthy? Shoreline work can be expensive, so it’s good to know up front what you’re going to be working with before you purchase a property.

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Shoreline

At first glance, it’s not always easy to tell if a shoreline is healthy or not—especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. But shoreline health plays a crucial role in the overall condition of a lakefront property, and it’s well worth understanding. Many people assume that a neatly landscaped shoreline is idea, but appearance doesn’t always equal ecological health.

Here are some key indicators to help you recognize the difference between a healthy shoreline and an unhealthy shoreline.

Signs of a healthy shoreline:

  • A variety of native plants growing
  • Presence of wildlife, including fish, birds, and amphibians
  • Natural debris (logs, brush, etc.) that create a buffer zone

Signs of an unhealthy shoreline:

  • Invasive plants growing
  • Visible signs of erosion
  • No buffer zone

What is a Buffer Zone?

A buffer zone refers to natural elements (such as plants, logs, leaves, etc.) that create a transitional area between the land and the body of water. Shorelines that have no buffer zone are likely to struggle with erosion. Preventing erosion is much easier—and less expensive—than fixing a shoreline that has already eroded. This is why it’s so important to take steps to protect your shoreline.

Assessing a Shoreline for Recreation

While natural shorelines with native vegetation and wildlife promote health, they are not always the most practical when it comes to using the lake for fishing, boating, or swimming. Many people opt to landscape their shoreline for a more aesthetic view and more practical access. However, when mismanaged, poor landscaping can lead to erosion. It’s important to check local regulations and talk with a landscape expert about any changes you’re wanting to make to your shoreline. A landscape expert can help you find ways to create a shoreline you love, possibly with elements such as rocks or a beach, while still preserving it to preserve your property.

Lakeside properties have so many benefits, but they can also be a lot of work. If you’re looking for a vacation home or cabin on a lake, shoreline health and quality waterfront are things to learn about as part of your search. Our team at Bill Hansen is always happy to answer any questions and help you know what to look for when searching for your dream home.

Investment Cabins: What Buyers Need To Know In 2025

27 May 2025
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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.

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.

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

31 March 2025
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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
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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
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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
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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.