Minnesota Lake Property For Sale

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Minnesota Lake Property Sales - LakePlace.com

LakePlace.com: The Experts in Minnesota Lake Homes, Cabins & Lake Lot Sales

If you're in the market for a lakefront property, look no further than The Dane Arthur Agency's LakePlace.com Division, the experts in lake property sales. With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, we have established ourselves as the go-to source for anyone looking to buy or sell waterfront real estate in Minnesota.

Our team of skilled professionals understands that purchasing a lake property is not just about buying a piece of land; it's about investing in a lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to entertain family and friends, we have the expertise to help you find the perfect Minnesota lakefront property - lake home, cabin or lake lot - to meet your needs.

At LakePlace.com, we specialize in lakefront properties of all types and sizes. From cozy cabins to sprawling lake homes, we have a diverse range of properties available to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're in the market for a year-round residence or a seasonal vacation home, we can help you find the perfect lake property to meet your needs.

Our team of experienced agents has an in-depth knowledge of the local market, including waterfront properties that are not listed on the open market. This gives our clients a competitive edge when searching for the perfect MN lake property. We also have access to the latest industry trends and data, allowing us to provide our clients with accurate, up-to-date information on the local market.

In addition to our expertise in lakefront property sales, we also offer a range of services to make the buying or selling process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From property inspections to legal and financial services, we have the resources to ensure that every transaction is handled with professionalism and attention to detail.

Our commitment to providing exceptional customer service has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted and reliable names in the lakeshore industry. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, we will work tirelessly to ensure that your lakefront property transaction is a success.

If you're ready to take the next step in your lakefront property journey, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you find the perfect Minnesota lake property to meet your needs.

Minnesota Lake Property For Sale - Latest Listings!

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1404 Featherstone Road, Hastings

$620,000 Mississippi River

1404 Featherstone Road, Hastings

4 Beds 4 Baths 1 Acres 3,689 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6803038

Spacious 4-bed, 4-bath home with 3,304 finished sq ft on a rare 0.73-acre wooded lot in Hastings’ sought-after Featherstone neighborhood. Enjoy panoramic Mississippi River bluff views from t...

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9135 Bend Lane Sw, Becker Twp

$299,900 Crow Wing River

9135 Bend Lane Sw, Becker Twp

1 Bed 11 Acres 287 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802764

Discover the perfect place to build your dream riverside retreat or enjoy as a peaceful getaway! This beautiful 11-acre property offers 735 feet of frontage on the scenic Crow Wing River...

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13 2nd Avenue Sw, Long Prairie

$184,900 No Name Lake

13 2nd Avenue Sw, Long Prairie

3 Beds 3 Baths 0 Acres 1,878 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802756

Full of character, this property is one-of-a-kind! Featuring a spacious yard, nestled next to a relaxing creek. The outdoor, above-ground pool adds to the relaxation with a wrap-around deck;...

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South Tract A Tbd County Road 45, Fair Haven Twp

$348,000 No Name Lake

South Tract A Tbd County Road 45, Fair Haven Twp

28 Acres Land MLS® # 6801587

Secluded 28 Acres Of Beautiful Wooded Land And Environmental Lake 18 Located Just 7.2 Miles From I 94 in Clearwater. Hunters Take Note, Excellent Hunting !! Buildable property has a full s...

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North Tract B Tbd County Road 45, Fair Haven Twp

$348,000 No Name Lake

North Tract B Tbd County Road 45, Fair Haven Twp

29 Acres Land MLS® # 6801582

29 Acres Of Beautiful Wooded Land And Environmental Lake 18 Located Just 7.2 Miles From I 94 in Clearwater. Hunters Take Note Excellent Hunting !! Buildable property has a full survey and d...

EXIT MN Lakes RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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3509 W 55th Street, Edina

$2,995,000 Minnehaha Creek

3509 W 55th Street, Edina

5 Beds 4 Baths 0 Acres 4,615 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6803002

Perched above Minnehaha Creek with panoramic southern views that stretch across the wooded landscape, this modern farmhouse offers a rare combination of natural serenity and urban convenienc...

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36829 Meadowbrook Road E, Ortonville

$475,000 Big Stone Lake

36829 Meadowbrook Road E, Ortonville

3 Beds 2 Baths 1 Acres 2,036 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6803019

Situated on a beautiful level lake lot, this well-maintained three-bedroom, two-bath home is located on East Meadowbrook, just north of Ortonville. Enjoy the serenity of state parks and wild...

Shady Oak RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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16255 Golf Course Road, Tordenskjold Twp

$250,000 Stalker Lake

16255 Golf Course Road, Tordenskjold Twp

2 Beds 1 Bath 0 Acres 999 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6801745

Lake in the front golf course in the back! A cozy gem of a lake place, this picturesque lake home is just right with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath. Situated on pristine Stalker lake and Stalker Lak...

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39751 State Highway 18, Aitkin

$500,000 Lake Mille Lacs

39751 State Highway 18, Aitkin

2 Beds 1 Bath 0 Acres 1,024 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6801612

Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined drive, this Mille Lacs Lake gem reveals itself only when you reach the end — and then, the view takes your breath away. Set on 100 feet of prime hard-sand ...

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1942 Eddy Street, Hastings

$325,000 Vermillion River

1942 Eddy Street, Hastings

3 Beds 2 Baths 1 Acres 2,488 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6799984

Welcome to 1942 Eddy Street - A home full of charm, character, and potential in the heart of Hastings! This well-built home has all the right bones and offers a wonderful opportunity for som...

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3304 Lake Street Nw, Rochester

$536,000 Manor Woods Pond

3304 Lake Street Nw, Rochester

3 Beds 3 Baths 0 Acres 3,564 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802782

Your lakefront retreat awaits! This spacious home features a main-level primary suite with a jetted tub overlooking the water and laundry conveniently located on the same floor. Enjoy stunni...

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25586 E Island Lake Road, Shell Lake Twp

$659,000 Island Lake

25586 E Island Lake Road, Shell Lake Twp

4 Beds 3 Baths 3 Acres 3,808 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802596

ISLAND LAKE! Located on the shores of Island Lake, just 25 minutes North East of Detroit Lakes. This lake home is situated at the end of a dead-end road, so if you are looking for privacy, 4...

Jack Chivers RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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Lt 1 Wood Lake Drive Se, Erskine

$199,000 Braaten

Lt 1 Wood Lake Drive Se, Erskine

8 Acres Land MLS® # 6802914

Check out this beautiful lake lot with 7.83 acres and 390' of lakefront on Braaten Lake. Located just off Cty Rd 10, south of Maple Lake and near Union Lake. Enjoy west facing views to take ...

Greenberg RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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38065 Danberry Trail, Rosing Twp

$99,900 Placid Lake

38065 Danberry Trail, Rosing Twp

1 Bed 1 Bath 1 Acres 600 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802701

Welcome to your next getaway cabin, located on 250ft of peaceful shoreline on Lake Placid just minutes from Pillager. If you have been looking for a peaceful and affordable place to spend...

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13471 Pine View Lane, Lindstrom

$290,000 South Center Lake

13471 Pine View Lane, Lindstrom

2 Beds 1 Bath 1,253 SqFt Condo MLS® # 6802292

Located in charming Lindstrom, a community with a unique Swedish heritage known as “America’s Little Sweden,” this end-unit, one-level townhome offers comfort and space. Enjoy a low-maintena...

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5832 Prairie Ridge Drive, Shoreview

$400,000 Rice Creek

5832 Prairie Ridge Drive, Shoreview

3 Beds 3 Baths 0 Acres 2,626 SqFt Condo MLS® # 6787289

Experience one-level living at its finest in this beautifully maintained Shoreview townhome offering 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The open, sun-filled floorplan showcases a spacious living ro...

Edina Realty, Inc.Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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563 Elins Lake Road Se, Cambridge

$650,000 Elms Lake

563 Elins Lake Road Se, Cambridge

4 Beds 3 Baths 0 Acres 3,265 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802855

Welcome to your DREAM HOME on Elms Lake! This stunning one-level property offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and true Minnesota lake living. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a...

Coldwell Banker RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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24594 S Melissa Drive, Detroit Lakes

$818,700 Lake Melissa

24594 S Melissa Drive, Detroit Lakes

2 Beds 2 Baths 1 Acres 924 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6802207

Discover the potential of lakeside living on one of Detroit Lakes’ premier destinations! This seasonal cottage sits on a beautiful level lot with 99 feet of sandy shoreline—perfect for swimm...

eXp RealtyRegional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Logo

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679 Lakeshore Drive, Big Lake

$399,900 Big Lake

679 Lakeshore Drive, Big Lake

2 Beds 2 Baths 0 Acres 1,524 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6800185

Experience the Best of Lake Life on Big Lake! Welcome to your lakeside retreat, where every day feels like vacation. Enjoy boating, fishing, water sports, and even ice fishing in the winter,...

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6 Lakeview Drive, Bondin Twp

$284,500 Fulda Pond

6 Lakeview Drive, Bondin Twp

4 Beds 2 Baths 0 Acres 2,560 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6797947

Live-Love-and LAKE! 4 bedroom/2 bath ranch style home has double attached garage and it's ready for you to make it your own! Take in those gorgeous sunsets while you relax on your maintenanc...

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8144 242nd Lane Ne, Linwood Twp

$275,000 Fawn Lake

8144 242nd Lane Ne, Linwood Twp

2 Beds 1 Bath 0 Acres 1,478 SqFt Single Family MLS® # 6784489

Great opportunity to deeded lake access and to join the Private Fawn Lake Paradise Point Park Association! 2 private beaches, a boat launch/no public access, all for $50/year! ½ Acre lot fe...

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As of October 11, 2025 there are 4797 active Minnesota - Latest Listings! lake property listings for sale with an average listing price of $720,838. The highest-priced waterfront listing is $55,000,000, while the lowest priced waterfront listing can be purchased for $1. Minnesota - Latest Listings! lakeshore listings have an average price of $377 per square foot, based on listings with an average of 3.2 bedrooms, 2.7 bathrooms, and 1,914 square feet of living space.


Minnesota Lake Homes For Sale

Minnesota Lake Homes For Sale

The LakePlace.com Guide to Buying a Lake Home in Minnesota

Dreaming of a cozy cabin by the lake? Minnesota, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, offers abundant opportunities for lakefront living. With its pristine lakes, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant outdoor recreational activities, buying a lake home in Minnesota can be a dream come true for many nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Location, Location, Location

One of the first things to consider when purchasing a lake home in Minnesota is the location. With over 10,000 lakes in the state, each with its own unique character and features, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Some popular lake regions in Minnesota include the Brainerd Lakes area, the North Shore of Lake Superior, the Alexandria Lakes area, and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Consider factors such as lake size, water clarity, fishing opportunities, proximity to amenities, and accessibility when choosing the location for your lake home.

Working with a Real Estate Agent

When searching for Minnesota lake homes for sale, it's essential to work with a qualified real estate agent who specializes in lakefront properties. MN Lake homes have unique considerations, such as shoreline regulations, water quality, and recreational activities, that require specialized knowledge. A real estate agent with experience in lakefront properties can guide you through the buying process, help you understand local regulations, and assist in finding the perfect lake home that meets your needs and budget.

Lake Home Features

Consider the features you desire in a Minnesota lake home. Do you want a small, rustic cabin or a larger, modern home? Would you like a sandy beach for swimming, a dock for boating, or a private wooded lot for seclusion? Think about the amenities that are important to you, such as a fireplace, a screened porch, or a sauna. Also, consider practical aspects such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the size of the lot, and the maintenance requirements of the property.

Lake Regulations and Permits

Minnesota has regulations in place to protect its lakes and shorelines. These regulations may include setback requirements, water quality standards, and restrictions on docks, boathouses, and other structures. It's important to familiarize yourself with these regulations and obtain the necessary permits before making any modifications to your lake home or shoreline. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent and consulting with local authorities can help ensure that you comply with these regulations and avoid any potential legal issues.

Financing Your Minnesota Lake Home

Financing a lake home is similar to financing a traditional home, but there may be some additional considerations. Lake homes are often considered luxury properties or second homes, which can affect the loan terms and interest rates. It's important to work with a lender who understands the unique aspects of lakefront properties and can guide you through the financing process. Be prepared to provide detailed financial information and be mindful of additional costs such as insurance, taxes, and maintenance when budgeting for your lake home.

Lifestyle and Recreational Activities

Owning a lake home in Minnesota offers an unparalleled lifestyle with a wide range of recreational activities. From boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer to ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the winter, there's something for everyone to enjoy year-round. Minnesota's lakes also provide opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, hiking, birdwatching, and simply relaxing by the water's edge. It's a place where you can create cherished memories with family and friends and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Owning a lake home requires ongoing maintenance and upkeep. Minnesota's harsh winters and changing seasons can take a toll on a lake home, requiring regular maintenance and repairs. This may include snow removal, dock maintenance, lawn care, septic system maintenance, and addressing any weather-related damage. It's important to budget for these ongoing expenses and be prepared to invest time and effort into keeping your lake home in good condition.

Home Inspections and Due Diligence

Before purchasing a lake home in Minnesota, it's crucial to conduct a thorough home inspection and due diligence. This may include hiring a professional home inspector to assess the condition of the property, including the structural integrity, electrical and plumbing systems, and potential issues such as water damage, mold, or pest infestations. It's also important to research the lake's water quality, any potential flooding or erosion risks, and any other local factors that may impact your decision.

Insurance and Taxes

Lake homes in Minnesota may have different insurance and tax requirements compared to traditional homes. It's important to research and understand the insurance options available for lakefront properties, including flood insurance, liability coverage, and property insurance. Property taxes may also vary depending on the location and value of the lake home. Working with an insurance agent and consulting with local tax authorities can help you understand and plan for these additional costs.

Community and Neighborhood Considerations

When buying a lake home in Minnesota, it's essential to consider the community and neighborhood where the property is located. Lake communities often have their own unique character, rules, and regulations that may affect your experience of owning a lake home. Consider factors such as the proximity to neighbors, lake access points, community amenities, and homeowner association (HOA) fees, if applicable. It's important to understand and be comfortable with the community dynamics and regulations before making a purchase.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing a lake home in Minnesota can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, offering a serene retreat and countless recreational opportunities. However, it's important to carefully consider all aspects of the buying process, from location and regulations to financing and ongoing maintenance. Working with a qualified real estate agent, conducting thorough due diligence, and understanding the unique considerations of lakefront properties will help ensure a successful and enjoyable lake home ownership experience.

In conclusion, owning a lake home in Minnesota can be a dream come true for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a close connection with nature. With its abundance of lakes, stunning landscapes, and recreational activities, Minnesota offers a unique and idyllic setting for lakefront living. By carefully considering the location, working with professionals, understanding regulations, budgeting for ongoing expenses, and conducting due diligence, you can make a wise and informed decision when purchasing a lake home in Minnesota. Happy lake home hunting!

Minnesota Lake Lots For Sale

A Guide to Buying a Lake Lot in Minnesota

Minnesota, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is a state renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant water resources. With its picturesque lakes, forests, and recreational opportunities, Minnesota is a prime destination for those seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you've ever dreamed of owning a piece of waterfront property, buying a lake lot in Minnesota could be a perfect investment. In this article, we'll explore the joys of owning a lake lot in Minnesota and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to make your dream of lakeside living a reality.

Why Buy a Lake Lot in Minnesota?

Minnesota's lakes are a true treasure, offering a wealth of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. From fishing and boating to swimming and kayaking, Minnesota's lakes are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Owning a lake lot in Minnesota allows you to immerse yourself in this natural beauty and enjoy a peaceful and serene lifestyle that can be the envy of others.

In addition to the recreational opportunities, owning a lake lot in Minnesota can also be a sound investment. Lakefront properties are often considered prime real estate due to their limited supply and high demand. Minnesota's popularity as a tourist destination and its strong housing market make lake lots a potentially lucrative investment. Lakefront properties also tend to appreciate in value over time, making them a wise long-term investment option.

Choosing the Right Lake

Minnesota is home to thousands of lakes, each with its own unique features and charm. When buying a lake lot, it's essential to choose the right lake that meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a lake in Minnesota:

Location: Consider the proximity of the lake to your home or workplace. Do you want a lake lot that's a short drive away for weekend getaways, or are you looking for a lake that's within commuting distance for year-round living?

Size and Depth of the Lake: The size and depth of the lake can impact the recreational activities available, such as fishing and boating. Larger lakes tend to offer more boating opportunities, while smaller lakes may be better suited for fishing or quiet relaxation.

Lake Access and Shoreline: Consider the type of shoreline you prefer, whether it's sandy, rocky, or wooded. Also, check the lake's access points, including public boat launches or private docks, to ensure ease of access to the lake.

Water Quality: The water quality of the lake is crucial for swimming, fishing, and overall enjoyment. Research the lake's water quality, including water clarity and potential issues such as algae blooms or invasive species.

Restrictions and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any restrictions or regulations that may apply to the lake, such as boating restrictions, fishing regulations, or building codes. These can affect how you use and develop your lake lot.

Working with a Realtor and Conducting Due Diligence

Once you've identified a lake that meets your criteria, it's important to work with a reputable real estate agent who is knowledgeable about lake properties in Minnesota. A LakePlace.com realtor can help you navigate the process of buying a lake lot, including understanding local regulations, conducting inspections, and negotiating offers.

Before making an offer on any MN lake lots for sale, conduct thorough due diligence. This includes obtaining a survey of the property to determine boundaries, checking for any liens or encumbrances, reviewing any existing permits or building restrictions, and researching the property's history, including any past flooding or environmental concerns. It's also crucial to have a qualified inspector assess the property's condition, including the well and septic systems, if applicable, to ensure they are in good working order.

Financing Your Minnesota Lake Lot

Financing a lake lot is different from financing a traditional home. Many lenders consider lake lots as vacant land or recreational properties, which may require a larger down payment and have different loan terms. It's essential to research your financing options and work with a lender who specializes in lakefront properties or vacant land.

It's also crucial to consider the ongoing costs associated with owning a lake lot, such as property taxes, utilities, and maintenance. Factor these costs into your budget and long-term financial plan to ensure you can comfortably afford the property.

Understanding Building Regulations

Before building on your lake lot, it's important to understand the building regulations and permit requirements in the area. Minnesota has specific regulations for building near lakes, including setback requirements, which determine how close you can build to the water's edge. It's essential to work with a qualified architect or builder who is familiar with these regulations to ensure your plans comply with local ordinances.

It's also important to consider environmental factors when building on a lake lot. Minnesota has regulations in place to protect the state's water resources, including regulations on shoreland management, stormwater management, and septic system requirements. Familiarize yourself with these regulations and work with professionals to ensure your building plans are environmentally responsible and comply with local laws.

Enjoying Your Minnesota Lake Lot

Once you've purchased your lake lot and built your dream cabin or lake home, it's time to start enjoying the fruits of your labor. Minnesota's lakes offer a myriad of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing in the summer to ice fishing and snowmobiling in the winter. You can also enjoy swimming, kayaking, hiking, and simply relaxing by the water's edge, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of lake living.

Owning a lake lot in Minnesota is not just about recreational activities; it's also about creating memories and building a lifestyle that brings joy and relaxation. Many lake lot owners find solace in the peacefulness of the water, the sound of loons calling, and the stunning sunsets over the lake. It's a place where you can unwind, unplug, and connect with nature, family, and friends.

In conclusion, buying a lake lot in Minnesota can be a rewarding and fulfilling investment. With its pristine lakes, natural beauty, and abundant recreational opportunities, Minnesota offers a unique lifestyle for lakefront property owners. By carefully researching and selecting the right lake, working with knowledgeable professionals, understanding building regulations, and budgeting for ongoing costs, you can make your dream of owning a lake lot in Minnesota a reality. So, pack your fishing gear, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embrace the joys of lake living in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

MN Lake Property For Sale - Lake Homes, Cabins & Lake Lots

When most people think of Minnesota, they think of lakes. The prevalence of these bodies of water is so great that their tourism board has long heralded Minnesota as the "Land of 10,000 lakes". At last count, over 11,842 Minnesota lakes greater than 10 acres in size exist in MN. Much of Minnesota's historical industries - from lumber to milling - are attributed to their vast hydrological resources. Today, these same resources provide a variety of fishing, boating and bird watching activities.

It's easy to get lost in the plethora of options available to buyers. Minnesota is a diverse state, with Boreal forest in the far north, sweeping plains in the east and central regions, and rocky landscape in the southwest. Below are just a few of the many lakefront options available to those who are ready to tap in to the natural beauty of Minnesota.

Lake Superior

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. It's maximum depth of over 1,300 feet. Though not technically contained within Minnesota, Lake Superior provides a significant amount of shoreline property in Minnesota. Variations in the depth and temperature throughout the lake provide a home for over sixty species of fish. The natural beauty that Lake Superior provides is highly sought after, with lake home prices beginning in the mid 300,000s.

Upper Red Lake

Red Lake is the largest inland lake in all of Minnesota. Known for it's black crappie population, the lake received a grant to build underwater log cribs that increase the health of the lake. Surrounded predominantly by the Red Lake Band of the Chippewa Indians, this massive lake only has a small portion of shoreline available for commercial development.

Mille Lacs Lake

Mille Lacs Lake is as full of character as it is fish. It has was designated as a spiritual lake by the Santee Sioux Indians and sits in what the original French settlers called "The Region of a Thousand Lakes". At a maximum depth of 42 feet, Mille Lacs offers a variety fishing opportunities. The lake is a prime spawning ground walleye, both on ice and open water. Though known for it's fishing, the lake is quickly garnering a reputation as a recreational getaway. Outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, biking, and golf accent the areas great beaches and quiet setting. With all of these options, Mille Lacs has become a prime spot for lake property. Lake homes and cabins can easily list at over a million dollars.

Lake Winnibigoshish

With very moderate development, Lake Winnibigoshish - or "Lake Winnie" - is a prime location for calm seclusion. Formed by the damming of the Mississippi River, Winnie maintains many quiet bays with little to know motorboat traffic. Lake Winnibigoshish is situated near smaller cousins of Cut Foot Sioux and "Little Winnie" that offer that same quiet atmosphere. The low development can make it a worthwhile challenge to find waterfront listings.

Lake Vermillion

Covering over 63 square miles, Lake Vermilion is the fifth largest lake in Minnesota. The local Ojibwa Indians once referred to it as "Lake of the Sunset Glow" for its inherent beauty. The lake contains over 300 islands and provide 1,200 miles of shorelines for quiet fishing adventures and other outdoor activities. Ideally located a few hours from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Lake Vermilion is as accessible as it is secluded. Lake property on this naturally occurring lake can easily list for a million dollars and more, but some cabins list for as low as $300,000.

What to Consider Before Buying Minnesota Lakeshore Property

Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) maintains restrictions on certain kinds of lakefront development. Some projects can be carried out without a permit from the MDNR, provided certain conditions are met. If your shore doesn't have emergent aquatic vegetations, beach sand blankets may be laid down, provided no filter fabric or plastic is used, the fill isn't more than 6 inches thick or 50 feet wide, and the local zoning officials are notified. Rip rap - course rocks piled at the edge of a lake - can be used to control erosion without acquiring a permit. However, retaining walls are detrimental to a lake's near-shore environment and require a permit from the DNR. Not all lakes are public access - the DNR maintains a map of all water declared public. These maps can also be accessed online at the DNR website and be sure to checkout the LakePlace.com Lake Finder for more information.

Individual counties can also maintain their own lake property development guidelines. A visit to the county zoning office will provide invaluable information when purchasing lake property. This is particularly crucial in popular and highly developed lakes. With a little research, potential property owner's can be assured that their lakefront experience will be everything they dreamed.

Minnesota Lakeshore Property

Minnesota has over 10,000 lakes, not to mention thousands of miles of riverfront, throughout the state. With over 80,000,000 baby boomers retiring in the next decade, the "craze" of lakeshore development should continue for some time. Take advantage of available lakeshore while prices are still "reasonable" and find your piece of heaven now.

Growing Up in The Land of 10,000 Lakes

Raised in the Iron Range town of Eveleth, Minnesota, I have come to love what the beautiful lakes and rivers of Northern Minnesota have to offer. In my youth, I lived just off the St. Louis River. My family, friends and I made numerous treks to the river for swimming, tubing, fishing or just plain exploring. Whether it be slowly floating down the river on a tube or learning about the abundance of wildlife in the area, the love of the water is instilled in most any northern raised boy.

One out of five families in Minnesota own a lakeshore property. I was amongst the 80% who did not. However, I knew many families who did own a cabin. Many summer days were spent out on the lake either water skiing, swimming, boating or fishing. The summer vacation would cruise right by with so many opportunities on the many resources of Northern Minnesota. The winter months were filled with snowmobiling, ice fishing, hockey and warm nights sipping hot cocoa or cider by the fire. Whatever the time of year, there are memories to be made on the thousands of lakes throughout the Northland.

Minnesota Lakeshore Property Trends

Owning Minnesota lakeshore property not only helps to create family memories, it can also create cash flow. Lakeshore property values throughout Minnesota have skyrocketed in the last decade and with millions of baby boomers retiring in the next 15 years, the trend shows no sign of slowing down.

Many current Minnesota lakeshore property owners have come to the realization that there is money to be made from their cabin. Most owners do not use their cabin every weekend, and some have decided to rent it out when they are not using the space themselves. There are really two scenarios for private cabin rental owners - rent out their cabin for up to two weeks of the year and use the profit to cover property taxes (or what ever else they would like to use it for), or, lease out the cabin as often as they like and in turn use the space as an investment property. In the first scenario, the owner does not have to pay taxes on the profit, as the government does not tax the first two weeks rental on any second home. The latter scenario is actually viewed as a second form of income and is taxed after you rent the property for more than two weeks. In either case, there can be benefits.

I have had many conversations with LakePlace.com members in all three categories. Many people simply want a place to get away with their family and do not want the hassle of obtaining renters, getting the property "renter ready," and managing the property. These are still the majority of cabin owners, and will most likely remain the majority. Another group of cabin owners have had their cabin for a long period of time and when they or a family member purchased the property, the price they paid was, shall we say, "dirt cheap." With rising property values, so goes the property taxes, and some owners have offset the cost by renting their cabin out for a couple of weeks. Not much of a hassle, yet making a few bucks to help the cause. The final group of owners uses Minnesota lakeshore property for investment purposes. Many started out renting their cabin to offset the taxes and mortgage. They had such success; they in turn purchased a second lakeshore property and then a third and so on. Depending on your situation, cabin ownership can be a lucrative second business or primary business for that matter.

Whatever category you may fall into, the time for purchasing a Minnesota lakeshore property is now. If recent trends and future speculation hold true, purchasing that weekend get away today will help secure your financial future and in the meantime, help create family memories for years to come.

Use our Agent Finder to contact one of our Minnesota lakeshore specialists today!

Related Pages

Minnesota Lake Homes For Sale

Minnesota Cabins For Sale

Minnesota Lake Lots For Sale

Minnesota Waterfront Properties For Sale

Minnesota Riverfront Properties For Sale


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