Lake Nokomis

Lake Front Property – Look Before You Leap! | Lake Minnesota

By Alan Olson

Minnesota, aptly named, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, is well known for its abundance of lakes and rivers. In fact there are over 11,000 lakes over 10 acres in size, and more than 63,000 miles of natural streams and rivers. Chances are, after spending a few years here, you may eventually purchase property on or near one of these bodies of water.

Here are some issues that need to be taken into consideration before purchasing a shoreland property:

Decide exactly what you want out of this property, and then do the research to determine if it will meet your needs. For instance, if you are looking for a year round home; are the roads maintained in the winter, or will you have to purchase a four-wheel drive vehicle to get around.

Are you looking for a weekend getaway for peace and relaxation? Make certain this isn’t “party lake central”, and bustling with wakeboarders and seadoos in the summertime. On the flip side, if you are looking for a place for your high powered water toys, and all you see are kayaks parked along the docks; you may run into some problems with your neighbors.

Different districts have their own set of zoning ordinances that may not agree with your plans for the lot. There are also many lots that were created prior to the shore land rules being put in place, and some of these may be too small to house a well or septic system. Depending on the intended use of the property, the lot shape may also be a consideration.

Land elevations are extremely important to consider when deciding on a location for your home. To minimize the risk of flooding, the basement or lowest part of your house should be at least three feet above the highest known water level. Sewage treatment systems should be inspected before you make any purchase, since these have similar restrictions and may require costly upgrades.

If the lot is situated on a steep slope, in order to prevent erosion, there are very specific rules that must be adhered to. Undesirable soil conditions can add thousands of additional dollars to a sewage treatment system if there is an improper balance of soil types. In general, a filled wetland makes an unstable base and development in these areas should be avoided.

You may have plans to remove some unsightly shrubs at the water’s edge; however, there are strict rules regulating the amount of vegetation that can be removed. If you were planning to add enough fill to create a sandy beach, you would require DNR approval to make any sort of changes at or below the water’s edge. It may be to your advantage to seek out a lot that already has a sandy shoreline.

The DNR shore land standards apply to all lakes greater than 25 acres (10 acres in municipalities). It may seem like a lot of rules to conform to, but the fresh water from Minnesota’s many lakes is a valuable resource, and adhering to these standards helps to ensure our future generations share the same enjoyment of these waters.

Experience the high standards and professionalism at Century 21 in your search for Minnesota real estate. Let their winning team help you with all your Fergus Falls real estate needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Olson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Lake-Front-Property—Look-Before-You-Leap!&id=786054

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Minnesota Mortgage – What to Expect When Buying a Home in Minnesota | Lake Minnesota

By Jessica Elliott

Maybe you’re buying your first home in Minnesota, or perhaps you’re relocating to Minnesota from another state. Either way, it’s important that you educate yourself on Minnesota home loans before shopping for a home and mortgage. This article explains what you’ll need to know before buying a home in Minnesota:

The median price of a home in Minnesota is $122,400. The price of homes in Minnesota varies widely between zip codes. For example, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the median price of a home in the summer of 2005 was $320,000; however, in Plymouth, Minnesota, the median price of a home was $214,000, and in Forest Lake, Minnesota, it was $225,000. Average interest and job growth rates in South Dakota are both below the national average.

Minnesota law prohibits the financing of points and fees on a mortgage that are more than 5% of the loan amount. Additionally, Minnesota limits the ownership of agricultural land to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and corporations owned at least 80% by U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

The state of Minnesota does not regulate home radon levels. This means that home buyers must test for radon levels in the home they are purchasing and decide for themselves how much radon is acceptable in their home.

Jessica Elliott recommends that you visit Mortgage Lenders Plus.com for more information about Minnesota Mortgage Rates and Loans.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Elliott
http://EzineArticles.com/?Minnesota-Mortgage—What-to-Expect-When-Buying-a-Home-in-Minnesota&id=263529

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Check Out Energy Rebates

EnergyStar.gov — Check Out Energy Rebates

This is a government site that offers lots of energy saving tips as well as explains what energy saving grants or credits might be available.

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Foreclosure Trends Newsletter

Here is the latest issue of my foreclosure trends newsletter.  As you can see, the trend is not our friend, in the sense that the housing market has not recovered.  Until jobs come back and people are employed and feel safe in their employment, they will tend to avoid making a committment.

ForeclosureTrends.pdf

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Twin Cities Foreclosure Trends-From our MLS & Realty Trac

Besides the board of realtor sites:  http://theThing.mplsrealtor.com and market data posted elsewhere at http://www.MplsRealtor.com I have a subscription to Realty Trac.  My subscription gives me additional data about foreclosures and trends within certain zip codes.  This is in addition to my daily subscription to Finance & Commerce (a business newspaper that prints all the foreclosure information as well as very timely articles regarding the business community).  If you are looking for someone who has experience and access to information about distressed sales, we need to be working together.  Whether buyer or seller-I can help you understand the market we are in and the options and opportunities available to you.  Give me call today.

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Real Estate Information

These are a couple of my newsletters that have a ton of valuable information. Go check them out.

Foreclosure Market Trends Newsletter
http://www.realtytrac.com/MarketTrends/NewsLetter.aspx?guid=131bd355-1b69-4bd1-99cd-2f0c9a936810

Real Estate Cyber Space Tips
http://www.REcyber.com/cybertips/r11627

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Tiger Muskie At Lake Nokomis

Caught on a medium sucker and bobber at 8pm

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Minnesota

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Outstanding Video-An Inspiration To All-Be The Best You Can Be!

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Twin Cities Home buyer book

Thinking about buying a home but don’t know where to start? Why not start by reading the home buyer hand book that we have provided below. It is a great place to start to get the information you need. When you’re ready, we would love to help you find and finance a new home.

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Open Source Documents-Unbelievable Resources-Find YOUR topic of Interest

If you’ve never visited http://www.Archive.org, you are missing a wonderful site.  From this site, you will find many resources that are out of copyright and you can download and use them as you wish.  You will find all the classics and some fun things as well.  Just for fun, I have the download of a book called “Little Gardens” which is a book about setting up a garden on a city lot.  This is just one of the MANY fun things you’ll find.  You can download and watch old music, movies, and cartoons as well.  Plan to spend some time on the site should you decide to visit, as it is very cool.  Click here to download the book Little Gardens

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Sell Your Home Faster-Learn The Home Selling Secrets Of Successful Sellers

Here is a special report that outlines over 450 ideas on how to sell your home faster.  This report is just one of the many home buyer, home seller, and investor reports that I can make available to you.  Read this report and call me to arrange a time to see how I can help.  Download Now

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Extension And Expansion Of Home Buyer Credit-4/30/2010

A Big WOW!!  The credit has been expanded to include homeowners who have owned their home for the past 5 years. No longer do you need to be a first time buyer.  The dollar limit is $8000 for first time buyers and $6500 for move up buyers.  This GREAT news.  Combine this with 50 year lows in interest rates, and you’d be crazy not to consider making a move.  If you feel secure in your job, think hard about buying  home at this time.  We can help you make the right move. Visit this site-which is from the National Association Of Home Builders  http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq2.php This site give you all the rules and regulations as they now apply.

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Why Foreclosure Is Often Preferred By The Loan Servicer Instead Of Offering A Loan Modification

Have you ever wondered why a foreclosure occurs when a better solution might have been a modification?  Would you like to read the facts and figures and see how mortgages are bundled, sold and serviced?  You will soon see it is isn’t pretty, we are in the midst of a crisis, and it is likely to get worse before it gets better.  That being said, you can probably guess why-it’s about the money.  It is a little more complex than that-the report is 60 pages-but is explains the incentive and disincentives that are at conflict within the mortgage market today.  Once you understand how all the pieces go together, you can see that something “different” needs to be done.  I am a strong free market believer, but in this case, the government needs to have a mandate and rule that is guided towards keeping people in their homes.  Left to current industry solutions, the mortgage mess will continue to play out and get worse.  If you click on the link below, you will find the free report from the National Consumer Law Center.

http://www.consumerlaw.org/issues/mortgage_servicing/content/Servicer-Report1009.pdf

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Home Buyer Tax Credit Information Update

It’s now official!! The tax credit has been extended and expanded. YOU NEED TO HURRY! You now have until the end of April 2010. The following summary of the credit is provided by the National Association Of Realtors. The following two documents cover the changes in the new law. Now get out there and buy a home!!

NAR FAQ: Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes
NAR Issue Brief: Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes

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Minnesota Real Estate Newsletter Gives Access To Great Computer & Life Tips

I maintain a number of real estate sites, blogs, and newsletters. One newsletter that provides a number of computer tips to help you function better with a computer is http://www.REcyber.com/cybertips/r11627 The site is full of cyber space tricks and great places to visit. We have link to this site on the list of MN Real Estate links, but I wanted to highlight this particular newsletter because it different from what most agents provide. From this newsletter, you can also access all the back issues-from 2001 and beyond. It is really quite a useful resource-spend some time there if you have a chance.

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Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

You will be amazed at the activities available throughout the Minneapolis Park System.  Use the convenient search finder to locate your lake of choice and the events that follow.

http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=5&advSearch=parks

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Seeing The Beauty Of Lake Nokomis MN

Although there are many lakes in Minnesota, this is one that many people flock to every year to enjoy the waters. But there is more to this lake then just being a body of water. There is a lot of history to Lake Nokomis and it is important to make sure that you are aware of it.

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Knowing the history of such a beautiful lake is the only way to make sure that you are fully going to be able to appreciate the lake and everything it has to offer visitors of the area. Located in the southern part of the city and west of the Mississippi River, you will find this amazing lake. The shape of the lake is oval and runs southwest to northeast.

The actually oval shape fact may surprise some because many people believe the lake to be an “L” shape. This is because the lower part of the lake has Cedar Avenue crossing it running north to south. From the ground, it would appear as though the lake in “L” shaped instead of being oval. Something else that many people find to be a fun fact is that the lake used to only be five feet deep at its deepest point.

Back when the lake was purchased, it was nothing much more than a marshland, which was used as a drainage area for the entire neighborhood. Lake Minneapolis was later turned into the fascinating lake it is today through a dredging technique. The dredging is what made the lake deeper and produced the lake that you can now see today.

Those with a lake Nokomis home or who have visited in the recent past may have noticed some changes taking place. Recently, there have been many changes in order to complete a preservation project. Special areas are created of native vegetation, which can be found along the shoreline in certain spots. There have been more artificial ponds added to the area as well in order to help everything out. With all of the beauty and the space that this lake allows, it is no wonder that it has been used for many years as a multipurpose lake.

The population of people who live around Lake Nokomis and those who come there for vacation find many things to do among the native vegetation and in the water. Fishing and sailing are extremely popular activities that you can see people doing on most of the warm days. There are also two very nice beaches that have imported clean sand in for recreational use. Just outside of the lake you will find yourself in the middle of a large park that has efficient facilities set up for those who want to walk or run, play softball, ride their bike, or play various other types of sports. There is plenty of room in the area to get in all the exercise that you could ever need.

If you want to make sure that you are around many conveniences then you will want to make sure that you are that you are at the main beach. This can be found on the west side fronted by Cedar Avenue. There are restrooms, concession stands, and a nice selection of rental equipment for you and your family to make use of. The smaller of the two beaches can be found on the northeast side of the lake. While there are no concessions there, you will find some portable toilets to make use of.

When visiting the beach areas of Lake Nokomis it is important to make sure that you are staying within the swimming boundaries. This is simply because there is a possibly dangerous situation that you can find yourself hurt in or possible killed. Just past the swimming boundaries is a place where the lake bed suddenly and without warning drops off. There has already been a teen that died by accidentally drowning back in July 2006 at the North beach.

From 1983 to 2000, the lake Nokomis was known mostly for its part in the Minneapolis Aquatennial celebration called the Milk Carton Boat Race. This even has now been moved to Lake Calhoun. The lake was also known for many years by the large old trees that were several feet in diameter along the east shore of the lake. Sadly, in 1998 these trees were uprooted by a terrible storm that ripped through the area with incredibly high winds.

With so much history behind this lake and what it has been known for throughout the years, it is no wonder that so many people still come to this lake. Whether you own a lake Nokomis home or you are simply driving through the area, it is a good idea to stop and check out everything that this lake has to offer. It is the perfect vacation spot, just as it always has been, simply because there is a little something for everyone. If you have never been there, you should give it a try and you will probably find yourself returning year after year.

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Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis and Lake of the Isles

If you ask residents of Minneapolis what sets their city apart from other major metropolitan areas, you will quickly learn about the extensive lake system that runs through the southern part of the city. Though you can easily find the urban lifestyle and towering skyline in downtown Minneapolis, the lakes offer a terrific alternative for those who prefer the solace and beauty of living near water. Between Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis, and the Lake of the Isles, Minneapolis offers a tremendous amount of outdoor recreational opportunities, and with plenty of available and affordable real estate nearby, the time has never been better to finally invest in your dream lakefront home.

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The lakes are connected as part of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, an elaborate system of trails and bike paths that are widely popular for exercise and recreational walks. Lake Harriet connects with Lake Calhoun on its north end through the William Berry Parkway. Harriet is home to two beaches, which many take advantage of during the summer months, as well as its famous castle-shaped bandshell. From June to September each year, the bandshell hosts concerts nightly, offering an eclectic assortment of music from big band to bluegrass to rock and roll. The Minneapolis Pops Orchestra makes its summer home here, offering a blend of popular and traditional music each Saturday. Additionally, Lake Harriet contains a brand new picnic shelter, tennis courts and fishing docks, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to indulge in.

On the other side of Lake Calhoun is the Lake of the Isles. Restored by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board in the early 1900’s, the Isles has been transformed from a shallow lake and marsh area into one of the most majestic lakes the city has to offer. In addition to its summer offerings, this lake is one of the most winter-friendly, offering an ice skating and hockey rink. In warmer weather, its bike paths, soccer field and fishing docks are very popular.

For those especially interested in fishing, Lake Nokomis offers some of the richest waters for fishermen in the entire state, with many game fish found here. Along with Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun, it is one of the three lakes used for sailing, and is one of the hosts for the popular Aquatennial, an annual celebration of Minneapolis’ aquatic tradition, featuring shows and competitions that draw large audiences. Nokomis is also a popular sporting lake, with fields available for football, baseball, softball, soccer and tennis.

Some of the most beautiful architecture in all of Minneapolis real estate can be found near the lakes. Many large single-family and multi-story homes and condominiums boast luxurious porches and balconies with a beautiful view of the water. If you are lucky enough to own a boat, there are plenty of homes with a large enough area to accommodate you with easy convenient access to many of the lakes’ boating docks. With the real estate market currently in favor of those seeking to buy, the time has never been better to locate the home of your dreams at a reasonable price. If you are more interested in renting, there are scores of apartments and duplexes for rent immediately near the lakes, as well as in the Uptown district, which is well within easy walking distance to the lakes and trails. I strongly encourage you to contact me to set up an appointment; I am confident that I can find a home that suits your own, as well as your family’s needs.

For your convenience, we are a fully cooperating member of the Twin Cities real estate community. The multiple listing service, or MLS, allows all member agents to view what is available in the market so you don’t feel compelled to go with an agent you are not comfortable with. So regardless of the company sign in the yard, please feel free to give me a call to arrange an appointment to view a home that you are interested in. Our website contains many helpful tools to get you started on your journey today, including mortgage rate calculators, mortgage rate quotes, and online mortgage applications. If you would like to browse for yourself, check out our Search Online Now! application. This will grant you access to all of the homes currently available through our multiple listing service.

If you are looking to relocate to Minnesota, I will be happy to help you out with our relocation package and guide. I, as well as many of my clients, are relocation specialists, and depending on your situation, there are various employee and corporate relocation packages available. Many of us own rental property ourselves as well and would be happy to assist you in finding a rental, or to arrange a tour with you to acclimate you with the area. Please check my website as well for our convenient relocation salary calculator and other relocation services.

I’m extremely familiar with the area and have lived in the Twin Cities my entire life. When making an important life decision, such as relocating and/or purchasing a home, it is important to have someone on your side to give you honesty and expertise. I strongly encourage you to contact me with any questions you have or to set up an appointment. I look forward to working with you.

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Twin Cities Lakes

The Twin Cities is a beautiful area. It’s also an area that has quite a bit of water around. Of course the cities are divided by the great Mississippi River, but there are a variety of different lakes that are in the area as well. There is a chain of lakes in the area, and there are five different lakes that are quite popular. Some of them include parks and recreational opportunities as well. The names of the five lakes include Lake Calhoun, Lake Nokomis, Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet, and Lake Hiawatha. Here’s a closer look at these lakes and what they have to offer those in the Minneapolis and Saint Paul areas.

Lake Calhoun

You’ll find that Lake Calhoun is one of the lakes that makes up the Chain of Lakes in the area. It is a very popular place for a variety of different activities, including swimming, fishing, walking, roller skating, jogging, wind surfing, sailing, and even canoeing. It’s about 3.2 miles around the entire lake, great for people who want to run, walk, or cycle. There are also three beaches that are supervised on the lake as well. You can rent watercraft on the lake by going through the Wheel Fun Rentals company right there. There are also gondola services available as well. Right on the lake you’ll even find that there is a nice restaurant – the Tinfish Restaurant. Over the past 100 years, there have been quite a few great improvements to the area. Originally this lake was known as the Lake of the Loons, “Lake Medoza.” However, the name was changed to honor John Caldwell Calhoun, who was a United States Senator, then later Vice President serving with President Monroe.

Lake Nokomis

Another lake you’ll find in the Minneapolis park system is Lake Nokomis. This is a sailing lake, just like Lake Calhoun. The park along the lake offers a community center, ball diamonds for baseball, concessions, canoe racks, sailboat racks, paths to walk, and two different beaches that are well supervised as well. They now offer a special playground system that allows kids between the ages of five and twelve to play. This system is made to help kids become more agile, to help with coordination and balance, and to help with strength in the upper body as well. During the warm months, often there are sailboat races on the lake and people can rent watercraft as well.

Lake of the Isles

The Lake of the Isles is another lake that happens to be a part of the Chain of Lakes as well. Millions of people end up visiting these lakes every single year. People come to bike, picnic, enjoy the scenery, bike, canoe, and more. During the winter months, many people come to this lake to go ice skating. There is a dog park located by the lake as well where people can bring their dogs to enjoy some time out and about. This lake was engineered, and was made in the early 20th century. It was originally a very shallow lake but it was turned into a wonderful lake and a beautiful park as well. The area has been renovated and turned into a lovely park. Wetlands have been enhanced, the plants have been restored, and paths have been reconstructed. It is definitely a lovely place to enjoy if you love the water.

Lake Harriet

Lake Harried is part of the chain of lakes and is very picturesque. There are 344 acres that are all water, as well as 67 land acres in the park as well. This lake is known for the great walking and biking trails, and many different water based activities take place. In the band shell located by the lake, various summer concerts take place as well. This is the 5th music facility to be put in this area. The first one that was built back in 1888 ended up being totally destroyed in a terrible fire. The trailers for skaters, bikers, and runners are almost three miles long. There is a small totlot available as well for young children. You’ll also find a concession building available and a well available where you can get water.

Lake Hiawatha

Last of all is Lake Hiawatha. This lake is beautiful and the park around it has beautiful trees to enjoy. The entire park is 234 acres, although the lake is only 52 acres large. Over the years this has been taken from a swamp to be a beautiful park that people in the area can enjoy. Some of the improvements that have been done in the past few years include adding boulders, ornamental trees, perennials, shrubs, and a special flagstone path as well. There is a playground that takes up eight acres, there is a beach, athletic fields, and even tennis courts. On one side of the lake there is a special golf learning center and a golf side as well.

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Twin Cities Minnesota

Interested in visiting the state of Minnesota? If so, you definitely won’t want to miss taking the time to visit the twin cities. These cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis are two of the biggest and most visited cities in the entire state. So, you definitely won’t want to miss them. Of course there are those that are not entirely familiar with these cities, their long history, and how exciting they can be. Here’s a closer look at these two cities, what defines them, their history, and the cities as they are today.

The Twin Cities

So, you may be wondering what exactly the twin cities refers to. Well, the “twin cities” are comprised of the huge metro areas of both Minneapolis and St. Paul. Between the two cities there are many sporting events, cultural productions, and many different avenues of entertainment as well. Both of the cities in MN have many different museums that people can tour as well. The two cities come together and definitely make up a huge metro area that includes many things to do, for visitors and locals alike.

Separated by the Mississippi River

There is one thing that basically sets the twin cities apart – the Mississippi river. This river runs right in between the cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Not only is the river the divider between the two cities in Minnesota, but the river is also a place where a huge amount of recreational activity takes place as well. Even the history of the two cities is based around the river, so the Mississippi river definitely plays an important part for both of the twin cities.

History of St. Paul

When it comes to the twin cities, it’s a great idea to take a look at the history of St. Paul. This city happens to be the second largest city that is in the state of Minnesota. This city was spurred off of the Fort Snelling, which was a military presence that was in the area. It was actually the first presence in the area for the U.S. military. It was located on the Mississippi River and was first established back in 1819.  The fort was actually established in the area so that the Americans could establish their own dominance over the fur trade on the Minnesota and the Mississippi rivers.

One bootlegger who was a retired fur trader decided to move his operation down the river a bit and he put it on the North bank. It eventually got the name of Pig’s Eye. Later the area would formally get the name Saint Paul, which was suggested by a priest in the area. The area is basically the gateway on the river towards the Midwest, and many steamboats found their way through the area. For some time the town was a railroad time as well and is often known as “The Last City of the East.”

History of Minneapolis

On the other hand, of the twin cities, you also have Minneapolis, which also has a rich history that originated in much the same way. It is the largest city in the state and it too originated from Fort Snelling. However, this city had a lot to do with Saint Anthony Falls as well, which gave the power needed for various flour and saw mills that were run. Once the land in the area was able to be settled, there were two different towns that were established. On the west side was Minneapolis, and on the east side was Saint Anthony. Later in 1872 these two towns would become one city. The industry in the area was mainly based on milling and soon the city was the top center of flour production. It earned the common name, “Mill City.”

It also began to become quite big in the railroad and banking industry as well. In fact, still today this city is a center in the banking industry. The area still has two of the biggest milling companies in the world, the Pillsbury Company as well as the General Mills company, although the two have now merged together.

The Cities Today

Today you will find that both of the twin cities, Minneapolis and Saint Paul, are growing cities. The skylines have definitely changed over the years, with tall buildings easily seen from the Mississippi River. There are now parks, museums, and various modes of entertainment to be found in both of the cities. However, as you cross the river, you will find the two cities to be quite different. In fact, you may even find that they are competitive. With the rich history and unique culture, they are definitely worth visiting if you venture into Minnesota.

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