Almost Speechless Sunday--Found the 3 Bears But Where's Goldilocks?

Anyone that knows and loves White Bear Lake, Minnesota knows that you cannot be a long time resident of the city without at least considering buying a statue of a white bear. (Note these are NOT statues of Polar Bears...They are WHITE Bears as Polars live in North St. Paul!) It seems that almost every other house in White Bear Lake has a cement statue or some sort of tribute to the city and high school mascot!

Heck even the Chevy dealer has had a giant statue above its cars for decades (but that is a Polar...Remember it is Polar Chev!)

Sometimes you need to do a double (or triple) take when you drive through the area at the number of statues gracing the front lawns and hiding in the landscape of this north metro community!

Copyright 2009 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

RE/MAX Specialists Literally Flying Above the Crowd in White Bear Lake!

I never miss an opportunity to take a great photo. Years before we were married, my husband and I ventured out to take photos of the hot air balloon race during the St. Paul Winter Carnival. We froze our fingers that day but took some awesome photos so of course I jumped at the chance to photo the RE/MAX balloon as it took off from the White Bear Lake.

I thought I had missed out on the flight as it was suppose to fly over the Governor’s Fishing Opener on White Bear Lake this past weekend. I was busy showing homes in Chisago County on Saturday so figured the balloon fly over was just a memory.

On Sunday afternoon, my colleague Rose Hildebrand dropped by my Wyoming open house. She also was holding an open in the same neighborhood and wanted to see my listing. When she casually mentioned the RE/MAX balloon was a go for Sunday evening, I couldn't wait!

The takeoff point was Benson Field just south of Hugo in White Bear Township. It was a beautiful evening. It was a good thing my husband was there, the balloon team needed a bit of help to get the balloon off the ground. There is a bit of work to getting the balloon set up and put away. My fellow RE/MAX Specialist REALTOR®'s Julie Jarvis and Rose Hildebrand were allowed to go along for the ride of their lives. I chose to keep both feet firmly on the ground and capture the adventure in photos.

When asked where they planned to land the balloon, the answer was, wherever the wind takes us. (This wasn't a joke.) We followed the van to assist the team in putting the balloon back in the van and had to chase after the balloon; stopping and assessing along the way. They tried to set down in the Mahtomedi practice field but the wind had other ideas.

They literally ended up landing on the front yard of a home in Mahtomedi. Before landing, the van driver did ask the homeowners permission...Her teenager thought the hot air balloon was amazing and took out a cell phone to snap a few pictures of his own. But their dog, Daisy, who is afraid of regular balloons, was having her worst nightmare. For me however, it was just a fabulous adventure! If you ever have a chance to assist in a RE/MAX hot air balloon adventure of your own, don't turn it down. It was a great way to spend a Sunday evening!

Copyright 2009 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Year End 2008 Snapshot of White Bear Township, MN Home Sales Statistics

Home sales were pretty stable in White Bear Township, Minnesota in 2008 versus 2007. In this northern Ramsey County township has weathered 2008 much better than the neighboring City of White Bear Lake. Home sales dropped just 7.4% and the average sales price held at just over $265,000 down only 2.9%. The days-on-the-market (DOM) was up by only 3 days for the year. White Bear Township is fortunate to have experienced a somewhat stable market in 2008.

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet or Homebuyers Success Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Buying a Home? Check out my new HOME BUYER'S BLOG!

Copyright 2009 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Year End 2008 Snapshot of White Bear Lake, MN Home Sales Statistics

Home sales took a bit of a hit in White Bear Lake, Minnesota as home less homes closed for less dollars in 2008 versus 2007. In this Northern Ramsey County city home sales dropped just over 14% but inventory levels should stay the same as there were just over 13% newly listed homes too. The average sales price took a 20% hit as fewer homes over $250,000 are selling anywhere in the Twin Cities. Days on the market it up as it took over a month more time to sell a home in 2008 than in the previous year. With affordability up and prices and interest rates down, now is a great time to consider purchasing a White Bear Lake home.

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet or Homebuyers Success Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Buying a Home? Check out my new HOME BUYER'S BLOG!

Copyright 2009 terieckholm.com

Change is Good! Teri Eckholm REALTOR® Moves to RE/MAX Specialists!

The late (and great) comedian George Carlin once quipped about stepping out of status quo; “I put a dollar in one of those change machines. Nothing Changed.” Dry humor yes, but a bit profound too…People seem to want change to happen to them without doing much of anything. But real positive change takes time and hard work. And, once the wheels are set into motion, the rewards are endless.

Just after Thanksgiving, I decided that I wanted to change my business in 2009. I spent over five wonderful years working as an agent under the Keller Williams Premier umbrella but sometimes a change will energize an individual and provide a more dynamic future. So without any decisions being made, I started interviewing brokers to see if there was a better fit out there for me and most importantly one that would provide additional benefits to my client base. I began researching smaller brokerages as I felt they would better fit needs. I contacted several but nothing felt right.

Fate played a role. In a Listingbook class, I was seated next to a fellow REALTOR® who I knew in the White Bear Lake area. She told me of changes that were taking place at the White Bear Lake RE/MAX office that she was affiliated with. A day later, I heard similar news from another trusted mortgage colleague. Intrigued, I contacted the owner/broker Mike Vanderheyden and listened to what RE/MAX Specialists had to offer. Small firm with innovative ideas. Redesigning itself to be poised for the future. Putting the needs of the clients first. Hmmmm….Sounds a lot like me.
So I took a risk and made the change. As of January 1, 2009 I am now proud part of the RE/MAX Specialists family.
Funny thing happened, when I made that leap off the bridge of change. A day after I called Mike and informed him of my decision, I received a call from Bob Stewart, Active Rain guru in Bellvue, WA asking if I was interested in being part of the Growth Leadership Marketing Program. I had read his post on the project months ago but Minneapolis/St Paul was not on the list of cities so I didn’t respond. Bob called me anyway. What an amazing opportunity that just sort of fell into my lap. The start up was put on hold until after the broker change but soon my readers will see weekly posts on this fantastic program.

And the positive energy didn’t stop there…After I decided to make my change, my phone started to ring like crazy. Things just started to happen!

• A referral from a long time friend.
• A “I need a house NOW” buyer from the internet.
• Showings on several of my listings during the usually slow Christmas week.

Sometimes change may not seem necessary but life’s forces are dynamic! One change can lead to others and create a field of positive energy. So take up the challenge: Make a change and reap the rewards in 2009!
If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet or Homebuyers Success Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.
Buying a Home? Check out my new HOME BUYER'S BLOG!
Copyright 2009 terieckholm.com

Weekend Fall Photo Tour of White Bear Lake, Minnesota--A Tapestry of Color!

Saturday was a perfect autumn day in Minnesota if you enjoy Mother Nature's eye candy! The fall colors were just starting to burst in White Bear Lake area. Around every corner there was another tree showing the signs of the crimson red, golden yellow, bittersweet orange or burgundy that was soon to appear. It was the perfect time to take a break from photographing interiors and exteriors that are so common in real estate and take some fun photos of the natural beauty unfolding in the Twin Cities.

Here are just a few of shots I took that showcase some of the beauty found on an autumn day in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

Boaters along the shore of White Bear Lake.

End of the season sail across the lake. Just look at the color starting to burst across the water.

Street shot of White Bear Lake Minnesota with a tapestry of color.

Beginnings of fall color near Manitou Island Bridge.

Another view of Manitou Island bridge.

Playful Bear Statue at the park in Washington Square just east of Highway 61.

Washington Square Gazebo with flower baskets that will be but a memory in the weeks to come.

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Copyright 2008 terieckholm.com

Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions—Hometown Version: Giant Polar Bear in White Bear Lake

Buying a car in the north and east Twin Cities metro usually means a trip down Highway 61. It is the mecca of new and used cars! Ever since I can remember one a huge Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distraction, the big polar bear at Polar Chevrolet, has been greeting auto buyers from the shore of Goose Lake just outside of the city of White Bear Lake. There were years where the polar bear donned sunglasses and a painted swimsuit in the summer or a scarf to ward off the winter cold but this year he is just bare.

For nearly half of a century, the giant bear has towered over cars enticing buyers and delighting youngsters. As toddlers, my own kids loved to pass the bear as we traveled up from North St. Paul to Forest Lake. From time to time we still take the slower route up Hwy 61 when returning from Maplewood Mall or my Keller Williams Real Estate office in Vadnais Heights. It is always fun to pass by and wave at the huge bear!


Other Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions:

• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions—Hometown Version: The North St. Paul Snowman



• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions--Homeowner Version: Ham Lake Bald Eagle in Nest



• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions—Homeowner Version: Little Gnome Facts in Forest Lake



• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions--Hometown Version: Lindstrom Teapot Watertower



• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions—Homeowner Version: D’oh! Homer at Home in Centerville

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional Realtor, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Copyright 2007 www.terieckholm.com

Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 3rd Quarter 2007

Lino Lakes continues to grow and real estate is affordable. Conveniently located near the junction of the 35E and 35W split north of the Twin Cities, Lino Lakes is a 33 square miles treasure. With 13 lakes and acres of beautiful protected wetland, the community is served by three school districts; Centennial District #12, Forest Lake District #831, and White Bear Lake District #624. The gem attraction is the pristine 2,700-acre Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve is situated within the heart of the city. Lino Lakes is committed to maintain this treasure and its natural settings and wildlife habitats for years to come.

Real estate in Lino Lakes, MN in Anoka County is affordable and selling—though admittedly at a slower pace than most sellers would like. The third quarter numbers show area homes are staying on the market an average of 159 days. Looking at current inventory levels and the rate of sales for homes priced under $300,000, there is about 5-6 months of inventory as it stands today.

While homes under $300,000 in Lino Lakes have a manageable inventory level, similar to other areas of the Twin Cities, high end homes are selling at a slower pace. Based on the 3rd quarter statistics it would take about a year to sell the current inventory of homes. This is much better than communities to the north, like Ham Lake and Forest Lake, which have about 2-3 years of high-end home inventory.

3rd Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 49 Active Listings, 6 Pending Listings, 23 Sold Listings

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 32 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 6 Sold Listings

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 24 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings

$500,000 and Up~ 18 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listings

Lakeshore available in Lino Lakes:
2 Active Listings
Centerville lakeshore price range: $334,900-$439,900

1 Home on Rice Lake
1 Home on Centerville Lake

Acreage properties available in Lino Lakes:

10 properties listed on 1-2 Acres priced between $224,900-$399-900.
5 properties listed on 2-3 Acres priced between $220,970-$399,900
1 property listed on 3-5 Acres priced at $289,900
1 property listed on 5-10 Acres priced at $420,000
1 property listed on 10-15 Acres priced at $525,000

For additional information on any current Lino Lakes real estate listing or for additional information on buying a home in Lino Lakes contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.

**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 7/1/07 through 9/30/07.

Articles on Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

Does "Minnesota Nice" Affect the Real Estate Market? "Yah, You Betcha!"
Dreaming of Life on MN Acreage?--What YOU Need to Know Before YOUR Move!
Affordable Minnesota Lakeshore

Century College—Community Asset in So Many Ways!

Most people living in the communities of White Bear Lake, Oakdale, Mahtomedi and North St. Paul are aware of Century College and the asset it is to the community. Some long time residents still refer to the college by its original names of 916 Vo-Tech and Lakewood Community College (though now referred to as the east and west campus, respectively). Almost every area residents knows one, if not dozens, of attendees and graduates of this educational facility in northeastern Ramsey County.

Certainly Twin Citians are all aware of the wonderful educational opportunities at Century College. But some may not be as aware of the wonderful services offered on campus to the community. Here is just a sample of how Century College gives back to the communities in the North Metro.

Lunch Anyone? Two campus cafeterias offer affordable and delicious lunch entrees including soups, chili, pizza, beverages, and desserts. The campus setting is alive with people of all ages from around the community as the public is always welcome. If you’re and early riser, breakfast is available too! Having a Party? Check out the catering service. For more information, please call 651-779-3482.

Manicure, Pedicure, Facial or New Hairstyle? All are available without the high salon pricing. Call 651-779-5756 for an appointment.

Brighten Your Smile! Teeth cleaning, whitening, x-rays, sealants and fluoride treatments are available on campus. To make an appointment or for additional information, call 651-779-5794.

Busy Bees Child Care Center Children aged 33 months to 11 years can be enrolled for part-time, full-time or hourly child care in the on-campus center. Care is available during the school year and much of the summer for children of students and members of the community on a space available basis. If space permits, drop-in care can be arranged. Call 651-779-3468 for additional information.

Check Out a Good Book The two campus libraries, one on the east campus and one on the west, are open to the public and books can be checked out with your community library card.

Need a High Quality Video to Promote Your Business? The Media Production Services can assist you to create a high impact ad without the high cost. Consultations are FREE! Call 651-779-3370 to set up an appointment.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side! Or just the Scenic Wood Duck Trail. Skate, jog or stroll down the public nature trail that winds through the wildlife area of the west campus.

Featured Real Estate Listings available near Century College:

• 2335 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110
• 1988 Robin Lane N, Centerville, MN 55038

If you are relocating to Minnesota, are looking for Homes for Sale in the north and east Twin Cities metro area and need help from a professional Realtor, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in acreage properties! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Copyright 2007 www.terieckholm.com/

Independence Day Celebrations! Time to Oooh and Aaah in the Northern Twin Cities Suburbs!

Blaine, Minnesota concludes its 37th annual Blaine's Blazin'4th week long celebration on July 4th. Start the day with the United States flag raising event at Blaine City Hall. Enjoy the fireworks at dusk at the National Sports Center.


East Bethel, Ham Lake, Linwood, Minnesota residents can enjoy the Coon Lake Boat Parade at 2p.m. July 4th on the Lake! Decorated boats line up and form a festive parade around the shores of Coon Lake.


Forest Lake, Minnesota hosts an Independence Day celebration that runs from June 30th to July 4th. Featured events are the VFW parade at 10 AM on and Fireworks at Dusk on July 4th.

Ham Lake, Minnesota will celebrate its fifth annual Veterans Dance and Fireworks celebration on July 4th in Lions Park. The event hosted by the the Don Hansen VFW Post, will feature a community dinner, dance, and fireworks celebration. Menu items include grilled pork chops, hamburgers and hot dogs. The party starts at 2p.m. with dancing from 6-10 and fireworks at 10:30.

White Bear Lake, Minnesota will host the 40th Annual Manitou Days celebration from June 21-July 4th. The event features a grand parade, a beach dance, a sand-castle contest, model boat races, boat shows and fishing contests, music, a pet parade, a citywide garage sale and a "family fun night." It culminates in July 4th fireworks at the beach.

If you are relocating to Minnesota, are looking for Homes for Sale in the north and east Twin Cities metro area and need help from a professional Realtor, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in acreage properties! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Copyright 2007 terieckholm.com