Showing posts with label buying an acreage home. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Dreaming of Life on Minnesota Acreage? What You NEED to Know!

While many millennial embrace the convenience of urban life, I am seeing a number of move up GenX'ers choosing to escape to the extreme Twin Cities suburbs. This summer I have been contacted by a number of home buyers wanted to sell their city starter homes and move to small acreage properties and lakeshore. This is a great time to make this move. Many homes on acreage in the north metro are priced well, even in this "hot" market. Combined with the current extremely low inventory of starter homes in the city, there is a good chance to make a transition this summer without breaking the proverbial bank.

Making a move from the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro to a more rural area is a dream of many city home owners. But the logistics of this type of move can seem overwhelming. It doesn't have to be! As a REALTOR® in the north and east metro, I know this. But because I have made the move myself, I can help you through the process. Sure, there are a few less amenities and public utilities in more rural communities but the trade off of extra space can be well worth it.

When my family made our move out to Anoka County acreage, we learned these differences first hand and quickly. Of course that was nearly 20 years ago so many amenities have been added since then. But over the years, I have guided many home buyers through the urban to rural transition. There are a few common questions that homebuyers should ask about each home and community.

Here are 14 important considerations homebuyers should consider prior to moving to acreage in Anoka, Chisago and Washington County.

What is a Septic or Private Sewer system?

Most rural homes have a private septic system. Not all systems are created equal. They are designed for the specific property and size of the home. Even a new septic system can fail if not properly maintained. How do you know if the septic system is working? Since not all communities require point-of-sale inspection, as your REALTOR®, I write into the offer that the seller must have the septic system checked for compliance by a licensed septic inspector in the purchase agreement. If it was completed prior to the sale, the certification should be no more than three years old. Also, homebuyers that have never lived on a property with a private sewage system, need to educate themselves on how to maintain and protect this essential and expensive part of your new home.

Is there a city water utility or a private well? Will I need a water softener or other water treatment system?

Families new to the concept of well water have many questions regarding its safety. Most buyers will request the water be tested for bacteria and nitrates in the purchase agreement. This is usually paid for by the seller. If you want the well test for your property to include tests for other contaminants, like lead, it must be specified in the purchase agreement. Annual water testing is recommended for all home owners with wells. Locate your MN Unique Well Number.

One question often asked by home buyers considering a property with a private well is about water treatment options available. Many homes with private wells have water softeners to treat the water in the home. Some will go one step further and have a reverse osmosis water treatment system in the kitchens as a drinking water supply. Personally, we have both in our home. Additional information on Water Softeners and Reverse Osmosis Drinking Systems.

Is there a natural gas supply to the home or will a propane tank be located on the property?

Often people looking at acreage will have questions about the huge propane fuel tank located near the home. The larger the acreage and further from the city, the better chance propane is the fuel source for the home. People from the city usually only see these tanks outside of the gas stations where they pick up the small refills for their gas grills. Almost all homes in urban areas are fueled by natural gas or electricity. In the country, the large propane tanks are in many backyards as the source of fuel to heat the home and run appliances. As a fuel source the differences are not noticeable. Propane is the least expensive cleanest fuel if a home does not have access to natural gas.

Does the home have access to cable or high speed internet or will a satellite connection be required? Which cable services are available to the home? What are the alternatives if DSL is not available through the phone or cable lines? Do I have to have cable or a dish to get television reception? Will I have cell phone reception?

A decade ago, these were not questions that people worried about in the rural communities. Today our interconnected world brings these questions to the forefront but no worries; there are tons of alternatives today to keep you connected. From hot spots to internet cards there are options to keep your family connected even out in the woods. Even today there are homes in Lino Lakes, Ham Lake, Forest Lake and East Bethel that have limited cable lines and restricted options for high speed internet available. There are many homes in the Columbus area in particular that must use a hot spot for high speed internet. And there are cell phone dead zones no matter how numerous or close those towers seem to be. We have a tower less than a mile from our house and still have to have a Sprint Airave to get continuous cell phone reception. This system runs our cell phone service through our cable when we are in the house. So if your family is very dependent on their screens and cannot survive without a high-speed connection, it is essential ask questions to figure out how to get the best access and reception.

If the road is gravel or unpaved, how often is it maintained by the city/county?

Our road was not paved when we first moved to Ham Lake. We were nearly a mile down a soft, gravel/sand road. When we moved it was late fall and were very surprised when the spring rains and snow melt left the road extremely poor condition. It was down right treacherous at times. The re-grading was done by the city on a periodic schedule so often we had to negotiate the pot-holed road for days. Our road is now paved but the memories still remain.

If you are considering acreage, remember many rural roads are not paved. If the acreage property you are considering is on a gravel or dirt road, try to visit the property on several occasions and under differing conditions. It might be a good idea to talk to the city and county to understand how the road is maintained. Also be sure to ask if there are any plans to pave the road in the future and what would be assessed per property owner for the project.

Is there wildlife?

Well maybe not lions and tigers, but we have had bears and cougars seen near our home in Anoka County. Recently we had a mama bear and her cubs visit our bird feeders and garbage cans. We also have pheasant, hawks, bald eagles, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, several varieties of squirrels and deer. A flock of wild turkeys have made their home in our neighborhood and continue to nest year after year. And an owl and a hawk have nested in trees in on our property. I rarely saw blue jays, cardinals or hummingbirds in the city, but in our Anoka County acreage home, we see them on a daily basis. While exciting, the downside is sometimes the wildlife comes in. I don't know anyone on Ham Lake acreage that hasn’t had an occasional field mouse enter their home.

Can we have a horse? (Or cow, chickens, goats etc.)

If your move to acreage is for having horses or other farm animals in your backyard, keep in mind that most communities have restrictions on how many, if any, animals are allowed. Whether you can have horses, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks, sheep or goats will be determined by the local city regulations. Even the amount of domesticated dogs and cats can be restricted on acreage property, just as it was in most urban communities. So if you plan to run a dog kennel, breed cats or train horses, for business or pleasure, do your due diligence and make sure it is allowed in your new rural community prior to writing an offer.

Is hunting allowed?

In some rural areas hunting is still allowed depending on the amount of acreage, the development restrictions and city and county rules. It was a rude awakening for us to discover our neighbors were allowed to hunt….and it seemed right outside our door too! Imagine our shock that first deer opener when the hunters came out in blaze orange to hunt in the woods next to our home. The property owner, at our request, posted the land and the hunters left. The land has since been developed but it is something everyone moving should understand before buying any acreage home. Check with the city and county for all ordinances regarding firearms.

Can I ride ATV’s, Snowmobiles and Dirt Bikes?

In many cases, this is allowed on acreage but even rural communities can have noise ordinances. Much will depend on the size of the property, proximity to neighbors and how often the riding takes place. Take time to learn what the rules are before starting up the engines and racing around the yard. On the plus side, there are several snowmobile trails throughout Anoka, Chisago and Washington Counties which can be just down the road from many homes.

Can we have a bonfire and burn all this debris?

There are strict states and local restrictions regarding burning of construction debris and yard waste. There are restrictions on the size of the fire and what can be burned. Many construction materials cannot be burned because they release chemicals into the air that pose an environmental hazard. There are times of the year where burning is only allowed by permit and sometimes not at all. Before burning it is best to check the local restrictions as well as the DNR.

Where do we shop? How far to the nearest corner store, gas station, shopping center and mall?

Depending on how often you like to shop, this may or may not be a big concern. Coburns does deliver but other food delivery services are much more limited. But it is always nice to know how far you will have to go for a gallon of milk for breakfast, a propane refill for the BBQ or gas for the lawn tractor.

How long does it take to cut the grass?

If your yard is over an acre with few trees, you might consider a lawn tractor. Many people on acreage only cut certain areas leaving the rest to grow to a natural prairie. Another consideration would be whether or not to install an irrigation system for the sod near the home.

Wow! There are a lot of trees! Do I have to worry about oak wilt and emerald Ash Borers?

Oak wilt is a big concern in throughout Minnesota. Many of the communities have information and programs to help protect and save the oak trees from this disease. Recently people have been extremely concerned with the emerald ash borer that has been found in Ramsey County and now Anoka County too. These insects bored into ash trees and tunnel under the bark eventually killing the tree. There are programs to control the spread of the insects.

What about emergencies? How far to the nearest hospital? Where is the nearest fire station? Who provides police protection?

No one wants to think about these things when moving but accidents and illnesses do happen. It was a long hour drive to Children's Hospital in St. Paul when my young son fell and needed stitches. If the nearest fire station is staffed with volunteers and over five miles away, it will seem like a lifetime during those 5-10 minutes while you wait for the fire truck to show up to YOUR home. And big fires in dry areas will need the water trucked in due to limited water hydrants, if any.. Many rural communities do not have police officers but are patrolled by the county sheriff's department. Understand your options before an emergency occurs because it will likely take a bit longer if you are in a rural area.

With a little planning, and a good REALTOR®, your move to Minnesota acreage can be a great one!

Have more questions about buying an Acreage Home? Ask Me! I Can Help!

READY to Make YOUR Move? If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me, Teri Eckholm of BOARDMAN Realty, a call or visit my website for a FREE Home Buyer Success Guide or FREE Home Value Report. 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 2017 terieckholm.com

Thursday, March 5, 2015

Spring Wildlife in Anoka County Comes in all Shapes and Sizes!

Sunday, May 4, 2014

Life on a Minnesota Wetland--Affordable Beauty and Privacy!

The legendary 10,000 lakes in Minnesota are why so many people want to buy homes in our beautiful state. Yet lakeshore homes can be very pricey. Sometimes buyers want something beautiful and natural but not too expensive. A great option can be a wetland property. Wetland or marsh doesn't sound as attractive as lakeshore. It can often lead to the question, Is buying a home with environmental lakeshore a good option or a huge mistake?

As a REALTOR who works primarily in the north Minneapolis/St Paul metro, I often educate buyers on the benefits of wetland homes. There are many acreage properties in Anoka, Chisago and Washington County areas on marshland or wetland as well as lakeshore.
From White Bear Lake to Wyoming and throughout the communities of Hugo, Lino Lakes Centerville, Ham Lake and Blaine, there are acreage properties abutting wetlands and natural environmental lakeshore. Many Minnesotans seek out these properties because of the size of the acreage and find them very desirable. But as with any purchase, opting to live on a wetland is a personal preference.

So how do you decide if a marsh, wetland or natural environmental (NEDS) lake home is for you? Take time to consider some of the positives and negatives.

Positives:

Wildlife—White-tailed deer, raccoons, turtles, ducks, loons, cranes, hawks, eagles, and a host of other animals have been spotted living near Minnesota wetlands. In the spring there can even be a bear or coyote wandering along the shorelines.
Privacy—Whether the wetland is 20 acres or 200, it cannot be built upon so a property with a wetland or NEDS lake shoreline will limit neighbors.
Affordable—NEDS lakeshore and wetland properties are significantly less costly than lakeshore on a full use recreational lake.
Activities—Though there could be some limits on the use, wetland ponds, environmental lakeshore and NEDS Lakes have been used winter skating, summer canoeing or kayaking and more depending on the water depth.

Negatives:

Mosquitoes—Yes, wetlands are known to attract summertime pests like mosquitoes and deer flies.
Drainage Issues—If the home is on a smaller lot, the owner must pay special consideration to the foundation. A drain tile system and sump pump can be the best solution. Homes with private septic or sewer systems might have special DNR (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources) or city point of sale requirements and additional criteria for a new installation if the system were to fail.

Copyright 2014 www.terieckholm.com

Saturday, March 30, 2013

14 Important Tips for Homebuyers Moving to Minnesota Acreage

Tips for Moving to Acreage in Minnesota

Home prices are rebounding and many city homeowners are thinking this is the year we can sell and have enough money to move to a larger home. For some, it is not just the size of the home that they want to increase, many people dream of living outside the city on a hobby farm or small acreage. Making such a move can be overwhelming if you don't know the differences between city and country life. It's not just more space and less neighbors, many times there are less amenities or public utilities too.

Moving to Minnesota acreage doesn’t have to make you feel overwhelmed. Good planning can ease the transition from life in the city to your new life on a Minnesota hobby farm or small acreage!

As a REALTOR® who works throughout the north and east Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, I show homes to other families looking a bigger backyard. My family made a similar move years ago. At first we were frustrated with our decision and wanted to sell our new Anoka County home and move back to our old North St. Paul neighborhood where we had lived for years. But after a few showings of city homes we quickly realized, you cannot go back….the yards in the city looked too small after a year on 2 acres. Yes, acreage has its appeal.

It took about a year before we fully embraced life on our Ham Lake acres. And now working as a REALTOR® , I have assisted several friends and old neighbors make similar moves out of the city to Anoka and Chisago County hobby farms and acreage homes. In each of these transactions, I notice that the same questions continue to come up whether considering a hobby farm in Ham Lake, an acreage lakeshore home in Lino Lakes, a horse property in Columbus or an executive estate in Andover. Though the properties that are being considered are only 15-20 miles from the bustling city life of downtown Minneapolis, the airport and the Mall of America, there are significant differences in the rural way of life.

Here are 14 important questions and considerations homebuyers should ask before they move from the city to acreage in Anoka and Chisago Counties.

**What is a Septic or Private Sewer system?

Most rural homes have a private septic system. Not all systems are created equal. They are designed for the specific property and size of the home. Even a new septic system can fail if not properly maintained. How do you know if the septic system is working? Since not all communities require point-of-sale inspection, have your REALTOR® require the seller to supply certification of compliance from a certified septic inspector in your purchase agreement. This certification should be no more than three years old. Also, if you have never lived on a home with a septic system, it is important to educate yourself on how to best maintain and protect your private sewer system. Additional information on Septic Systems.

**Is there a city water utility or a private well? Will I need a water softener or other water treatment system?

One question often asked by home buyers considering a property with a private well is about water treatment options available. Many homes with private wells have water softeners to treat the water in the home. Some will go one step further and have a reverse osmosis water treatment system in the kitchens as a drinking water supply. Additional information on Water Softeners and Reverse Osmosis Drinking Systems.

**Is there a natural gas supply to the home or will a propane tank be located on the property?

Often people looking at acreage will have questions about the huge propane fuel tank located near the home. People from the city usually only see these tanks outside of the gas stations where they pick up the small refills for their gas grills. In the country, the large propane tanks are in many backyards as the source of fuel to heat the home and run appliances. As a fuel source the differences are not noticeable. Propane is the least expensive cleanest fuel if a home does not have access to natural gas. Additional information on the differences between natural gas and propane.

**Does the home have access to cable or high speed internet or will a satellite connection be required? Which cable services are available to the home? What are the alternatives if DSL is not available through the phone or cable lines? Do I have to have cable or a dish to get television reception? Will I have cell phone reception?

A decade ago, these were not questions that people worried about in the rural communities. Today our interconnected world brings these questions to the forefront but no worries; there are tons of alternatives today to keep you connected. From hot spots to internet cards there are options to keep your family connected even out in the woods. However, there are many homes in Lino Lakes, Ham Lake, Forest Lake and East Bethel that do not have cable lines or high speed internet available through the phone lines. And there are cell phone dead zones no matter how numerous or close those towers seem to be. We have one less than a mile from our house and still have to have a Sprint Airave to get continuous cell phone reception. So if your family lives on the internet and could not live without a high-speed connection, it is essential ask questions to figure out how to get the best access and reception.

**If the road is gravel or unpaved, how often is it maintained by the city/county?

Our road was not paved when we first moved to Ham Lake. We were nearly a mile down a soft, gravel/sand road. When we moved it was late fall and were very surprised when the spring rains and snow melt left the road extremely poor condition. It was treacherous at times. The re-grading was done by the city on a periodic schedule so we had to negotiate the pot-holed road for days. Our road is now paved but the memories still remain.

**Is there wildlife?

Well maybe not lions and tigers, but we have had bears and cougars seen near our home in Anoka County. We also have pheasant, hawks, bald eagles, raccoons, foxes, several varieties of squirrels and deer. A flock of wild turkeys have made their home in our neighborhood and continue to nest year after year. And an owl and a hawk have nested in trees in on our property. I rarely saw blue jays, cardinals or hummingbirds in the city, but in our Anoka County acreage home, we see them on a daily basis. While exciting, the downside is sometimes the wildlife comes in. I don't know anyone on Ham Lake acreage that hasn’t had an occasional field mouse enter their home.

**Can I have horses?

If your move to acreage is for having horses or other farm animals in your backyard, keep in mind that most communities have restrictions on how many, if any, animals are allowed. Whether you can have horses, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks, sheep or goats will be determined by the local city regulations. Even the amount of domesticated dogs and cats can be restricted on acreage property, just as it was in most urban communities. So if you plan to run a dog kennel, breed cats or train horses, for business or pleasure, make sure it is allowed in your new rural community prior to writing an offer.

**Is hunting allowed?

**Where are the schools?

The public school districts in rural communities can be vast. In the Forest Lake School District 831, students come from communities as far west as Ham Lake, as far south as Lino Lakes, as far east as Scandia and as far north as Stacy! It you drive from the western border to the eastern border of the district, it takes almost 45 minutes, one way! There is only one high school in the district, so your children's best friend from school could literally live almost an hour from your home. But the opportunities to get to know kids from all areas can outweigh any negatives. The bottom line here is, it pays to research the school district prior to any housing decisions.

Also school alternatives can be limited. Communities in the city have dozens of private and charter school options. These options are much lower in rural areas due to the smaller population. Additional information on Educational Alternatives in the North Metro.

**Can we have a bonfire and burn all this debris?

There are strict state and local restrictions regarding burning of construction debris and yard waste. There are restrictions on the size of the fire and what can be burned. Many construction materials cannot be burned because they release chemicals into the air that pose an environmental hazard. There are times of the year where burning is only allowed by permit and sometimes not at all. Before burning it is best to check the local restrictions as well as the DNR. More information on MN Fire Restrictions.

**Where do we shop? How far to the nearest corner store, gas station, shopping center and mall?

Depending on how often you like to shop, this may or may not be a big concern. But it is always nice to know how far you will have to go for a gallon of milk for breakfast, a propane refill for the BBQ or gas for the lawn tractor.

**How long does it take to cut the grass?

**Wow! There are a lot of trees! Do I have to worry about oak wilt and emerald Ash Borers?

Oak wilt is a big concern in Anoka and Chisago counties. Many of the communities have information and programs to help protect and save the oak trees from this disease. And Additional information regarding oak wilt. Recently people have been extremely concerned with the emerald ash borer that has been found in Ramsey County communities including St. Paul and Shoreview. These insects bored into ash trees and tunnel under the bark eventually killing the tree. There are programs to control the spread of the insects. Additional information on the Emerald Ash Borer

**What about emergencies? How far to the nearest hospital? Where is the nearest fire station? Who provides police protection?

No one wants to think about these things when moving but accidents and illnesses do happen. It was a long hour drive to Children's Hospital in St. Paul when my young son fell and needed stitches. If the nearest fire station is staffed with volunteers and over five miles away, it will seem like a lifetime during those 5-10 minutes while you wait for the fire truck to show up to YOUR home. And big fires in dry areas will need the water trucked in due to limited water hydrants, if any, like in the city. Many rural communities do not have police officers but are patrolled by the county sheriff's department. Understand your options before an emergency occurs because it will likely take a bit longer if you are in a rural area.

With a little planning your move to a home on acreage can be a great one!

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Hobby Farm in Your Future? What You Need to Know to Finance Your Dream

This summer, I have had the opportunity to assist a young couple scour the north and east metro for a small acreage property. We’ve searched across western Anoka, southern Chisago and northern Washington Counties, for something that will meet there small acreage requirements. Our search discovered the perfect country farmhouse on 40 acres and well within their budget too! My preapproved clients were excited when they wrote up their offer. Everything changed a day later when their loan officer called to inquire. “Are there crops growing on that land? ANY crops at all?” Well, the answer was yes. Suddenly the dream homestead had become a commercial property requiring agricultural financing.

No big deal, right? Wrong

The residential financing they were approved for limits property acreage to a maximum of 20 crop-free, acres. Yes, the land must be totally free of any planted crop when you use residential financing (even their loan officer was a bit surprised by this more stringent restriction). Of course the restriction is sometimes overlooked if the land is wetland and/or is densely wooded and therefore deemed unusable for farming. The whole situation was a bit of a surprise to my clients. They had never asked the questions as to whether there was a restriction on their preapproval for the size of the property. Of course this is partially because we just never expected to find such a large piece of land in their price range.

In order for my clients to purchase the property the fell in love with, they required agricultural financing. This is a whole different ballgame using a specialty lender. The mortgage will require a 15-20% down payment and it is only available at an interest rate significantly higher than what was quoted by their residential lender…Usually 2-3% higher.This can be a deal breaker if the original financing plan was 3% down FHA or a low down payment conventional loan with private mortgage insurance.

Why the difference? There are laws to protect farmers from foreclosure before the harvest. Current law seems to affect anything over 20 acres. It seems that underwriters have become stricter since the housing downfall. My understanding of the situation is this: If land has been rented to another party for farming, it would be very difficult for the bank sell the foreclosed land quickly. If there are crops involved, the crop would belong to the farmer not the bank.

If you are searching for a Minnesota hobby farm or small acreage property, it is very important to ask your loan officer the “what if” questions.

What if I find the perfect home on 25 or 30 acres?
What if half of a 20 acre has been rented to the neighboring farmer for a corn crop?
What about a horse ranch that has 5 acres of hay planted?

Understanding how many acres are allowed using the financing you are preapproved is essential when shopping for a Minnesota hobby farm. Asking questions prior to the home search for can save you time and heartache as you search for your dream home.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Amazing Anoka County Acreage Foreclosures: Home Sweet Home on a Budget!

Looking for a foreclosure, bank-owned or short sale but need to be able to live in the home immediately after closing?

It's time to stop thinking of foreclosures as a dumpy, unmaintained home that will sit on the market waiting forever for someone to write up a lowball offer! In many instances, that is absolutely NOT the case. People are snapping up deals all over Anoka County on acreage foreclosed homes that are in awecome condition and priced to sell. Some are bank-owned foreclosures but many are sellers just pricing their homes properly to sell in this changed real estate market. As a buyer, you have to be ready to see a home as soon as it lists as the good homes are selling FAST! Also, buyers must be aware--The best homes are getting MULTIPLE offers the day they list!

Here are a few Anoka County homes that I noted that sold in DAYS:

Blaine 2003 built townhome near Tournament Players Club. Perfect 3BR with 2 baths and garage stalls listed at $110K. Sold in 1 day.

Coon Rapids Classic 1956 3BR rambler with 1/2 acre yard in move in condition. Bank owned price at $69.9K sold in 10 days.

Coon Rapids 1998 built 2BR/2BA/2car townhome with whirlpool bath and built-in entertainment center. Listed at $80K and sold in 9 days..

Ramsey 1992 built, 4BR/2BA split w/kitchen appliances and family room w/wet bar and wood stove. Listed at $97.5K sold with multiple offers in 7 days.

This economy has home builders and responsible homeowners alike to let amazing properties go back to the bank. Many are still in excellent condition. Some may require a bit of cleanup or a few cosmetic changes but there are houses that are move-in ready too.

There are more deals out there too…Here are a few of the treasures I noted on the Twin Cities MLS in Anoka County today:

Bankowned Anoover 4 level 3BR/2BA 4 car built in 2002 listed for $216K...jacuzzi tub and gas fireplace too! Home originally sold without finished basement for $270K
1995 Built Blaine Townhome with 2BR/3BA/2Car near TPC golf course for $104,900...Previously listed at $180K. A price drop of $75K!
5BR/2BA/3Car on wooded 1/2 acre lot in Blaine on located across from playground with a tax value of $208K.
Cute 2BR/2BA/2Car Centerville townhome built in 1998. Sold for $167K in 2004 now lender bargain price is $89,900.
4+Acres and Polebarn in Columbus A 3BR/1BA/2Car 1967 rambler with original hardwood. Previously listed at $350K bank priced at $179,900.
5Bedrooms on almost 5Acres in Columbus New stainless steel appliances and carpeting in this 1987 built 4 level. Original list price was $295,000 now lender bargain price is $232.9K.
Ham Lake Executive Two Story on 4.5 Acres! 4BR/4BA/3Car treasure corner whirlpool tub and custom built-ins throughout home. Originally sold for $620K in 2004. Bank listed at $429K

If you are in the market for a great deal on a foreclosed home, get your ducks in a row because homes are being offered at rock bottom prices. Here are a few tips for those considering offering on a foreclosed home.

Be Prepared for Multiple Offers! Well priced foreclosed homes get multiple offers. Serious buyers put in their best bid first and quickly. Every offer I have submitted on a bank-owned home in the past year has had to compete in a multiple situation and sold for MORE that it was listed for in the MLS. Expect this trend to continue as inventory is low and interest rates are very attractive.

Banks LOVE clean offers. Buyers MUST be preapproved with credit checked and employment and funds verified. Documentation must accompany the offer or it won’t be considered.

Banks will reject lowball offers…no negotiation. They are a business and know the value of the asset they are selling.

Banks sell homes AS-IS. What you see is what you get. In most cases repairs will not be made.

In most cases a banks will not pay for inspecting the septic system or well. Those will be the buyer’s responsibility along with all other inspections. If you chose to inspect the septic or the county requires a septic compliance test, expect to pay $400-$500 for this inspection. A well test will run around $150. A whole house inspection is $350-$500. (The exception to this rule is the communities where there is a point of sale inspection requirement.)

Personal property is not included as part of the sale. So if the appliances are at the home when you close, they are a bonus. The bank will not remove. But they don’t guarantee will remain at the home or that they are in working order. This means if someone breaks in the home prior to the closing and takes them, the bank will not replace.

Having your own REALTOR® to represent your interests is essential. The listing agent is under contract to represent the bank. In many cases, the bank will not allow a dual agency so if a buyer contacts the listing agent to write the offer, the buyer does not have representation. This means all of your information goes to the bank…the listing agent is required to tell the bank everything that you say about your financing and the amount you are able or willing to pay. But the agent is not required to tell you anything in return. The agent works only for the bank.

Friday, July 13, 2012

Dangers Lurking on Minnesota Acreage

We are in the Dog Days of a very warm Minnesota Summer! The weather is perfect for lakeshore picnics and weekends at the cabin. Many Minnesotans are itching to get out and enjoy the beauty of our area but nobody wants to be literally "itching". It is time to heed the warning of potential hazards on Minnesota acreage.

Anoka, Chisago and Washington Counties in Minnesota boast some of the most beautiful, desirable acreage and lakeshore properties in the state. As a REALTOR® who works throughout the Ham Lake, Forest Lake, Blaine and Lino Lakes areas, I have to walk acres with clients to assess the land. We walk the perimeters of wetland and hobby farm acreage properties to understand the property lines. Whether in a suburban backyard or wooded field, whenever I show homes on Minnesota acreage, I am prepared. There can be dangers lurking in the underbrush.

Poison Ivy-- It is important to be extremely very aware of these poisonous plants as they are all over in Minnesota yards and wooded areas. Many property owners don't even realize the plants are poison ivy. Poison ivy is found all over the US while a close relative poison oak is found most often in the west. The plants to have a similar look and exposure to either of these plants will cause a similar, painfully itchy reaction.

Poison Ivy in will be rampant in the Summer

Classic poison ivy is grown to full "itchy" potential in the early summer.
Some leaves are notched.
Some leaves are not.
New leaves are shiny and still somewhat reddish.
Older leaves are duller.
Be careful not to accidentally burn poison ivy as you can have an allergic reaction to breathing in smoke too!

Poison ivy can be a ground cover, a vine or a bush. One small neglected patch can spread very quickly to a huge area. Exposure to this plant is an itchy nightmare that can last for several weeks unless treated with
prescription medicines, usually steroids. These plants can leave oil on clothing which can spread in the laundry. Be aware of this hazard when walking in any wooded area that you are unfamiliar with.

Think you can identify poison ivy? Take the POISON IVY PHOTO QUIZ

Wood Ticks/Deer Ticks--While the woods are often a haven for white-tailed deer, the beauty of these
animals is overshadowed by a frightening reality. Deer ticks are carriers of Lyme disease; a painful disease that can be quite debilitating if untreated. Deer ticks (or Black-legged ticks) are rarely found in maintained yards and are very tiny and often not noticed even after having bitten a host. The best defense is prevention of a deer
tick bite.

Dress Appropriately When walking acreage with underbrush or on property that has not been maintained, wear long sleeves and tuck in pant legs.
Use Bug Spray Effective repellents include DEET and Permanone. Spray clothing with Permanone repellent prior to wearing as it is not to be sprayed directly on the skin. DEET can be used on clothing and/or skin.

For additional information on ticks commonly found in Minnesota, read article "Minnesota Ticks and Their Control", by Jeffery D. Hahn.

Mosquitos--And don't forget that mosquitoes that are found in the wetland acreage. Mosquito bites are for the most part just annoyingly itchy in the spring. But in the fall, there is more of a risk of West Nile and encephalitis. This disease can be extremely serious and occasionally deadly, so mosquito spray is an essential when veiwing homes located near ponds, lakes and wetlands.

Monday, April 16, 2012

If We Buy a New House, Can We Get a Horse?

Horse and animal restrictions on Minnesota acreage properties

Last year, during a final walkthrough of an acreage home my buyers were purchasing in Anoka County, one of their daughters ran up to me giggling and said, “Joe thinks you are buying him a pony.”

“Oh…really?” was all I could think to respond.

Mom nodded that yes it was a fact, Joe had it in his three-year-old head that I was going to drop off a four-hoofed pet on move-in day. While I have been known to give a closing gift to my clients, I have never offered a pet as a present…especially a pony!

This particular precocious toddler must have mixed up some of the conversations during our home search outings. As we searched for the perfect Minnesota acreage home throughout Anoka, Chisago and Washington Counties, there was quite a bit of discussion of horses. The reason this city-dwelling-but-soon-to-be-country family was relocating to a more rural property complete with a polebarn, was so his older sisters could get horses.

But acreage alone does not make a horse property. The fact is, many potential acreage homebuyers are surprised to find out that there restrictions on animals in the country. Though leash laws and licenses are expected in most urban environments, many people don’t realize that rural communities also have rules, ordinances, covenants and restrictions regarding animals.

So if you are planning a move to a more rural environment and want to have a horse, raise chickens or just have a couple of dogs and cats, it is important to check the restrictions before writing an offer to purchase a home.

Each county, city and even specific development will have rules, restrictions and covenants in regard to animal ownership. The current code for the City of Ham Lake, where I live has a number of specific rules for pet ownership. For instance, owners of more than two dogs must obtain a private kennel license. You can raise chickens or pigeons with a temporary conditional use permit. Horses, or other animals with hooves like a pony, can be kept if a permit is obtained from the city prior to obtaining the animal and land is designated R-A or residential agricultural.

Now, a few miles away in the City of Columbus, a homeowner can keep up to four dogs before being required to get a kennel license. And in the City of Wyoming, horses are allowed on properties that are larger than five acres but no more than 1 horse per 2 acres. There can also be restrictions on grazing acres versus wetland or unusable acres. One time I came across a development with 10 acre parcels that had covenants restricting the land use to exclude horses. Bottom line: There is no hard and fast rule regarding whether rural properties will allows animals. Each home must be researched to verify any restrictions.

So what should a home buyer who has promised the kids a pony do?

Work with a REALTOR® that specializes in acreage and knows how to find homes with a place for your pets. Be flexible on areas/communities you want to relocate to. If pets are a priority, write any offer contingent upon being able to have the number of horses, dogs or chickens that will be part of your family household. Make it a practice to call the city and/or county regarding any pet or animal ownership restrictions. Check with the seller regarding all covenants that would restrict pet ownership. So if your move to acreage requires a place for a pony, make sure it is allowed!

Need to know more about buying or selling a Twin Cities home? Let me be your professional guide. If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me, Teri Eckholm of Boardman Realty, a call or visit my website for a FREE Home Buyer Success Guide or FREE Home Value Report. 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 2015 Teri Eckholm

Thursday, February 9, 2012

14 Essential Considerations When Moving to Minnesota Acreage

Moving to Minnesota Acreage

Remember the story of the country mouse and his city cousin that switched places? Rural life was so slow and different that the city mouse couldn’t stand it. And likewise the country mouse was so out of place in the city that he scurried home as fast as his little mouse feet could carry him.

Moving to Minnesota acreage doesn’t have to make you feel like a fish-out-of-water, or a mouse in the wrong part of town for that matter! Planning before you make the move can ease the transition from life in the city so your family will love your new life on Minnesota acreage!

As a REALTOR® who works throughout the north and east Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, I show homes to other families looking for the same escape from the city my own family made several years ago. We first felt like that crazed city mouse and wanted to sell our new Anoka County home and move back to North St. Paul where we had lived for years. But we soon found out, you cannot go back….the yards looked too small. Acreage has its appeal.

Since that first fateful year, we embraced our life on our small acreage in Ham Lake. In fact, over the past decade, as a REALTOR® , I have assisted several old friends and neighbors make similar moves to Anoka and Chisago County hobby farms and acreage homes. In each of these transactions, I notice that the same questions continue to come up whether considering a hobby farm in Forest Lake, an acreage lakeshore home in Linwood, a horse property in Columbus or an executive estate in Ham Lake. Though the properties that are being considered are only 15-20 miles from the bustling city life of downtown Minneapolis and the Mall of America, there are significant differences in the way of life out in the country.

Here are 14 important questions and considerations homebuyers should ask before they move from the city to acreage in Anoka and Chisago Counties.

**What is a Septic or Private Sewer system?

Most rural homes have a private septic system. Not all systems are created equal. They are designed for the specific property and size of the home. Even a new septic system can fail if not properly maintained. How do you know if the septic system is working? Since not all communities require point-of-sale inspection, have your REALTOR® require the seller to supply certification of compliance from a certified septic inspector in your purchase agreement. This certification should be no more than three years old. Also, if you have never lived on a home with a septic system, it is important to educate yourself on how to best maintain and protect your private sewer system.

**Is there a city water utility or a private well? Will I need a water softener or other water treatment system?

**Is there a natural gas supply to the home or will a propane tank be located on the property?

A decade ago, these were not questions that people worried about in the rural communities. Today our interconnected world brings these questions to the forefront but no worries; there are tons of alternatives today to keep you connected. From hot spots to internet cards there are options to keep your family connected even out in the woods. However, there are many homes in Lino Lakes, Ham Lake, Forest Lake and East Bethel that do not have cable lines or high speed internet available through the phone lines. And there are cell phone dead zones no matter how numerous or close those towers seem to be. We have one less than a mile from our house and still have to have a Sprint Airave to get continuous cell phone reception. So if your family lives on the internet and could not live without a high-speed connection, it is essential ask questions to figure out how to get the best access and reception.

**If the road is gravel or unpaved, how often is it maintained by the city/county?

Our road was not paved when we first moved to Ham Lake. We were nearly a mile down a soft, gravel/sand road. When we moved it was late fall and were very surprised when the spring rains and snow melt left the road extremely poor condition. It was treacherous at times. The re-grading was done by the city on a periodic schedule so we had to negotiate the pot-holed road for days. Our road is now paved but the memories still remain.

**Is there wildlife?

**Can I have horses?

If your move to acreage is for having horses or other farm animals in your backyard, keep in mind that most communities have restrictions on how many, if any, animals are allowed. Whether you can have horses, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks, sheep or goats will be determined by the local city regulations. Even the amount of domesticated dogs and cats can be restricted on acreage property, just as it was in most urban communities. So if you plan to run a dog kennel, breed cats or train horses, for business or pleasure, make sure it is allowed in your new rural community prior to writing an offer.

**Is hunting allowed?

**Where are the schools?

Also school alternatives can be limited. Communities in the city have dozens of private and charter school options. These options are much lower in rural areas due to the smaller population.

**Can we have a bonfire and burn all this debris?

**Where do we shop? How far to the nearest corner store, gas station, shopping center and mall?

**How long does it take to cut the grass?

**Wow! There are a lot of trees! Do I have to worry about oak wilt and emerald Ash Borers?

Oak wilt is a big concern in Anoka and Chisago counties. Many of the communities have information and programs to help protect and save the oak trees from this disease. And Recently people have been extremely concerned with the emerald ash borer that has been found in Ramsey County communities including St. Paul and Shoreview. These insects bored into ash trees and tunnel under the bark eventually killing the tree. There are programs to control the spread of the insects.

**What about emergencies? How far to the nearest hospital? Where is the nearest fire station? Who provides police protection?

No one wants to think about these things when moving but accidents and illnesses do happen. It was a long hour drive to Children's Hospital in St. Paul when my young son fell and needed stitches. If the nearest fire station is staffed with volunteers and over five miles away, it will seem like a lifetime during those 5-10 minutes while you wait for the fire truck to show up to YOUR home. And big fires in dry areas will need the water trucked in due to limited water hydrants, if any, like in the city. Many rural communities do not have police officers but are patrolled by the county sheriff's department. Understand your options before an emergency occurs because it will likely take a bit longer if you are in a rural area.

With a little planning your move to a home on acreage can be a great one!

Disclaimer

This is a personal web site, reflecting the opinions of its author. It is not a production of my broker. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of anyone other than myself. The information on this site is provided for discussion purposes only, and are not recommendations for real estate purchases. Nothing in this website shall be construed as an offer to purchase a home, sell a home or take any action whatsoever. Due to the nature of this blog/website, typographical errors and unintentional misstatements of fact may occur. In no event shall the publisher of this website and any affiliates be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special or consequential damages arising out of or in any way connected with the use of this blog/website, whether based on contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise.