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3 Prize Winning Lake Fishing Spots to Check out this Year

29 March 2022
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

Lakes are beginning to thaw this spring, and many Minnesotans are dusting off their boats and tackle boxes. We’ve got the lineup for you if you’re looking for a record-breaking, prize-winning, or rare fish! Here are the best lakes to fish in when you head Up North this year. 

Leech Lake

If you’re looking to take home a prize-winning fish, Leech Lake is your place! Several anglers have reported reeling in 30, 40, and even 50-pound fish! This 112,000-acre lake has room for everyone and sits near local towns like Walker, MN, with excellent shopping and restaurants to check out when you need a break from the water. 

Lake Winnibigoshish

Nicknamed “Lake Winnie,” this lake has something for everyone in the family – fishing, swimming, and beaches. A record-breaking 54-pound muskie was caught here, and many continue to praise this fishing hole’s reputation throughout the years. 

Sand Lake

This 4,328-acre lake has shallow waters and protected bays that allow for many different types of fishing, so pull out your boats, your waders, and your fly fishing poles. Sand Lake is regularly stocked with lots of different kinds of fish, so it’s a great spot if you’re looking for variety or something a little different. 

Wherever you decide to head to spend the day with your line in the water, don’t forget to secure your fishing license before you go and enjoy the great outdoors! We can help you find the perfect spot to head back to after a perfect day on the lake! Reach out today! 

Four Tips for Buying Your Dream Waterfront Cabin

25 March 2022
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Categories: Blog, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Is this the year you’re looking to buy your dream waterfront vacation property Up North? We’ve got four tips to help you find a cabin that meets your needs! 

Know What You’re Looking For

The first step is to be clear about what you’re looking for. Make a list of your must-haves: is there a specific lake you want to be on? Are you looking for something more rustic or more modern? How much space do you need? Being clear about what you want will help your realtor find your dream property. 

Check on Accessibility to the Water 

You probably want a waterfront property for more than just a beautiful view; you probably want to get out on the water! Whether you need a boat dock or are just looking to swim or fish – make sure that your property has the water access you’re looking for. 

Keep Maintenance in Mind

Lakefront properties often mean higher exposure to the elements, water and wind damage, critters, and bugs. Be sure that you are prepared for what it will take to keep up with your new property. 

Be Prepared to Move Quickly

When looking for your dream vacation home, you want to be sure that you are ready to make an offer when you find that property you’ve been searching for. Make sure to have your financial situation solidified and your mortgage broker prepared to act. 

We want to get you on the lake this year! Let us help you find your new property for your weekend getaways. Check out our current properties! 

Three Easy Things that Will Help You Get Ready for Spring at the Cabin

25 February 2022
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

We are Up North in Minnesota, so probably have many winter days ahead of us. But Spring is still on its way, so now is as good a time as ever to start planning to get your cabin ready for the season. Here are some tasks to keep in mind as you’re prepping for another great year at the cabin!

Schedule a weekend ahead of time to go Up North to check out the cabin. Make a list of everything you want to accomplish so that you don’t miss anything. Don’t forget to check your boat registration and insurance to verify if anything needs to be renewed. 

Do an inspection

Check the interior and exterior of your cabin for any weather or critter damage. Make a plan to repair significant issues first so that you can start enjoying cabin time sooner rather than later. Don’t forget to check your smoke alarm and C02 detector batteries, turn on your water and HVAC, and check your lighting and electrical. 

Restock Necessities

Toss any expired canned food or staples leftover from last year and do an inventory on basics you might need to shop for, such as sunscreen, batteries, bug spray, cleaning supplies, toiletry basics, etc.

Look Over Your Whole Property 

If you have a significant amount of land with your cabin, do a walk (or drive) around the entire property to check for fallen trees, litter, fence damage, or any other issues that might have come up during the winter months. 

Are you thinking about buying a cabin or lake home this year? Check out our properties to find your Northern Minnesota Lake home this year! 

P.S. Maple syrup season is almost here! Click here to read about maple syrup season Up North in Minnesota.

Six Minnesota Trails You Have to Hike

18 February 2022
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Things to Do, Vacation Property

Hiking season will soon be upon us, and now is the time to start planning where you want to hike this year. Some of these trails even have winter accessibility so that you can check them out now while you plan your Spring and Summer hiking outings. 

Paul Bunyan Trail

Not just for hiking, the Paul Bunyan Trail boasts 120 miles of paved biking trail with plenty to see along the way. Stop and see the Blue Ox, take some time out for fishing, or try geocaching – you’ll find something for everyone on this trail that has entrances right in Walker! 

Gooselake Trail 

A smaller, less-traveled 12-mile trail in Chippewa National Forest, this trail is an excellent option for hunting, winter sports, or a quiet hike away from all of the hustle of busy parks and trails. 

Hiram Trail (near Hackensack) 

Just 2 miles north of Hackensack, the Hiram trail offers hiking and ski trails for all adventurers with a combination of easy, intermediate, and advanced trails. 

Washburn Lake Solitude Area

For the more experienced hikers, Washburn Lake trails weave through Washburn, Grasshopper, and Bear Lakes and offer shelters and fire pits along the way to rest and recuperate before continuing on this scenic hike. 

Deep Portage Conservation Reserve

Deep Portage Conservation Reserve has loops of trails near Big Deep Lake with opportunities to enjoy the Great Outdoors all year round with options for snowshoers and snowmobilers. There are trails for all hiking levels that will keep you coming back to this beautiful reserve. 

Aiton Heights Fire Tower, Itasca State Park

Best for Spring to Fall hiking, this 2.2-mile dog-friendly trail is great for a short day hike, walk, or birdwatching. This would be a great fall hike to grab a view of the changing colors from the tower.

If you’re looking for a cabin to hike back to after your outdoor fun this year, contact us to start your search! 

Dealing with Winter’s Harsh Impact on Your House or Cabin

25 January 2022
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Wintertime can be harsh on our homes Up North, but it is nothing a little extra care and maintenance can’t solve. Here are some items you can be checking on throughout the winter months to ensure you and your loved ones are staying safe, getting the most out of your home, and ensuring you’re not stuck with a big repair bill.

Preventing frozen pipes

On the coldest days, your plumbing system is at risk for freezing and bursting. On these extra cold days, you can take simple precautions such as opening cabinet doors to allow for better heat flow or leaving your faucets dripping slightly to keep water flowing through your pipes. If your plumbing is a little older, you might choose to wrap pipes with heat tape or foam installation, which can be found online or at your local hardware store. 

Check your heating system

You don’t want to go without heat in the winter, so whatever your heating system is (HVAC, wood stove, etc.), spend the money early on in winter to get your system inspected and cleaned so that you don’t end up with unwelcomed repair during a week with extra-low temps. 

Keep an eye on your gutters

Before winter begins, it’s essential to clear your gutters of debris to lessen the impact and weight on your gutters during winter. Once the cold weather hits, be sure to keep an eye on changing temps and check your gutters to make sure that ice isn’t building up. You can always apply a de-icing product to clear out dammed-up gutters.

Clean up cracked window caulk

Keep an eye out on the caulking around the windows. Change in temperatures can cause caulk to dry and crack. Head to the hardware store to pick up some fresh caulk and get your windows appropriately sealed to save big on heating bills.

We hope you stay warm and safe this winter, and remember, we are here for all of your Up North property needs. Contact Bill Hansen Realty today! 

Four Winter Festivals You’ll Want to Check Out this Year

12 January 2022
BHRadmin20
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Cities, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Things to Do, Vacation Property

We’ve got several more months of winter on the way Up North, and sometimes it can be hard to get out and do something fun with all of the cold and snow. That’s why we’ve pulled together some great Winter festivals and events happening this year that will make this winter season even more enjoyable. 

The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza, January 29, 2022

This self-proclaimed largest charitable ice fishing event in the world is the perfect excuse to get out of the house, get on the ice, and do your best to nab the biggest fish of them all. This event brings in $150,000 for local charitable donations and helps support local businesses every year!

Crosslake Winterfest, February 3-5

If someone in your group isn’t necessarily open to the idea of outdoor activities, Crosslake’s Winterfest might be the place for you! From a citywide scavenger hunt to live music and something called “Soupfest,” there is sure to bring joy to everyone in the family!

Northwoods Pond Hockey Classic, February 4-6, 2022

Nothing says Northern Minnesota quite like some pond hockey. This local hockey tournament has six different divisions, so there’s a spot for everyone. So start forming your team, grab your gear, and head to Pelican Lake to show off your slap shot. 

Gull Lake Frozen Fore Winter Weekend, February 25-27, 2022

The Frozen Fore Winter Weekend is hosted by Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant and Bar, a three-day celebration of winter fun for all ages. With pancakes on the ice, snow golf, and a cook-off competition, this event is sure to have something for everyone. Not to mention all of the proceeds go to support nonprofits that work to feed and educate children! 

However you decide to spend your time this winter, we hope you’ll refer your friends and family to Bill Hansen Realty for their Up North Property needs! 

Make the Most of Your Money by Moving Up North

21 December 2021
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Cities, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

Even if you’re not entirely up to date on the current Minnesota Housing market, you’ve probably heard about recent rising prices and bidding wars. While it’s true that property values have risen, taking advantage of the benefits of the housing market Up North can help you make the most of your money.

By looking at properties Up North, you’ll see an increase in square footage, acreage, and home quality. 

Square Footage

More space and bedrooms to share with your family, and for hosting guests for holidays and vacations.

Acreage

Enjoy more space for recreation, hunting, or adding new structures to your property! 

Home Quality

Your budget in Northern Minnesota can mean you’ll be looking at newer updates to your home, premium quality materials. By buying properties at lower prices you could also use the money you saved to renovate your new home to your standards. 

Now is the time to start looking and preparing to shop for your dream property. By taking advantage of getting on board with us now, we can be sure to get the newest properties in front of you before the summer rush. Contact us today to start your search! 

5 Tips for Having the Best Cabin Christmas Yet

10 December 2021
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

The snow is gathering in Northern Minnesota and causing everyone to really begin embracing the Christmas spirit. You might be getting together with people you weren’t able to last year, so as you’re gearing up to enjoy the holiday up North, we have some tips to help you have the best Christmas at the cabin yet! 

Read a Christmas Story around the Fireplace

Grab a hot chocolate and snuggle in as a family to enjoy some quality time while listening to a traditional Christmas story or children’s book. Even if you’re a household full of adults, a little Christmas nostalgia goes a long way. 

Bake some Christmas Goodies

Baking is one of the best ways to gather everyone in the cabin for some quality time while baking cookies, bread, or your favorite holiday treat. Not to mention you’ll get to enjoy some delicious treats once you’re done! 

Get some time in on the Ice

Whether you’re an ice skater, hockey player, or ice fisher, get outside and enjoy the crisp Northern Minnesota air and the beauty of Christmas on the lake. Playing together is a great way to build memories and Christmas Traditions.

Have a Gingerbread House Competition

Gather your supplies and give everyone the task of building a Gingerbread House. Whether in teams or individually, this is a great way to create some healthy competition. When you’re done, have everyone vote on their favorite and make sure to have a prize for the winner! 

Take a Family Photo or Video

Call everyone together and capture the Christmas holiday in a family photo or video! This is a great way to make the memories last. You can even display all your photos of Christmases past on the wall or sit down and watch your video together next year! 

However you decide to celebrate this Christmas, we hope you have a wonderful time with the people you love! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 

Looking for a property Up North to celebrate the Holidays? With offices in Longville, Hackensack, and Walker, we can assist you in finding the best properties in Northern Minnesota. Contact us today to get started!

Three Easy Ways to Prepare Your Cabin to Sell

22 November 2021
Tommy Lindquist
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Lake Property, Minnesota Cabin Real Estate, Minnesota Real Estate, Northern Minnesota Real Estate, Vacation Property

If you are preparing to sell your cabin, you can do some easy things to help get top dollar and sell it quickly. 

Declutter

Walk through your cabin with a critical eye and put away any seldom-used recreational equipment, as well as any piles of books, magazines, or odds and ends that have accumulated. If an item doesn’t have a home, pitch it or pack it! Clean all clutter from countertops, including small appliances. You might be amazed at how much bigger your cabin will look when all of the extra “stuff” is put away!

Clean up the outside

The more work a buyer thinks is needed, the lower the price they will want to pay. Taking a bit of time to power wash the deck, dock, or any other parts of your property that have moss, mildew, or are grungy can help make things look spic and span. Trim dead limbs or anything blocking the lake view if you have one. Showcase the beauty of your property!

Make the inside smell good

Sometimes cabins, especially the older ones, may smell musty or have that “not so fresh” smell. Doing a deep clean can help. Mop, dust, clean the baseboards and polish any wood. Painting takes a bit of time, but a fresh coat of paint can make things look and smell newer. 

Ready to buy or perhaps sell your Up North property? With offices in Longville, Hackensack, and Walker, we can assist you in finding the best properties in Northern Minnesota. Contact us today to get started!

Top Christmas Gifts That Deer Hunters Will Love This Year

15 November 2021
Tommy Lindquist
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Categories: Blog, Cabin Life, Lake Life, Northern Minnesota Things to Do

It’s deer hunting season here up north in Minnesota! It’s also the holiday season, and many are starting their gift buying early due to supply chain shortages. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of great gifts for hunters at various price points to make your shopping a bit easier.

High-Performance Cellular Trail Cam

Vortex Razor HD Angled Spotting Scope – 11-33x50mm

Chugach TR Hunting Rain Jacket

SNOW DEER Rechargeable Electric Heated Socks

Rustic Deer Cutting Board

Antler Mounting Kit

Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner Fixed Blade Knife

Please stay safe and have fun out there! Remember to check the Minnesota DNR website for more information and guidelines for the 2021 Minnesota deer hunting season.

Looking for an Up North property in Minnesota?

At Bill Hansen Realty, we are the market leader in Northern Minnesota. We sell and market lake homes, lake cabins, lake lots, hunting land, and other recreational properties. Contact us today to start your Up North property search!