10 Reasons People LOVE to Call North St Paul MN HOME!

So what is the big draw to the town with the giant ever-smiling snowman? There is a love for this unique town that goes beyond the iconic snowman greeting those passing by on Highway 36.

People love living in North St Paul. The City of North St Paul, is located just EAST of St. Paul Minnesota along Highway 36. It is a quaint little town with a rich history that was founded in 1870 by Henry Castle on the banks of Silver Lake. He named the town’s main streets after his children, Henry, Helen, Margaret and Charles. When it incorporated in 1887, 221 people called the Village of North St. Paul home. From those humble beginnings, the town has grown considerably. As of 2008, nearly 12,000 people call the City of North St. Paul, Minnesota home.

Here is a top ten list of reasons why this community is such a great place to live.

#10—Water and Electric. Most cities provide the basic utilities of water and electricity to its residents. But few communities can boast water from five wells drilled deep into the earth for a pure, natural source of drinking water as well as their own power grid and wind turbine like North St. Paul can!

#9—Local Police and Fire. The City of North St. Paul is proud to have its own police department and volunteer fire department.

#8—Cowern Elementary, Richardson Elementary, Webster Elementary and North St Paul High School. Go Polars! North St. Paul has three K-5 grade schools and a high school within its borders. Cowern and Webster Elementary schools are located on the south side of 36; Cowern at Margaret St and South Ave and Webster on North St Paul Rd just north of McKnight. While both Richardson Elementary and North High School are located on the north side of 36. Richardson bisects 16th Avenue and North is located along 11th Avenue. All three schools are an integral part of the North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oakdale School District #622.

#7—Silver Lake Park, Beach and Fishing Pier. Many North St. Paul children have learned to swim on brisk summer mornings in the water of Silver Lake , a tradition that continues into today! Warm summer afternoons the beach and playgrounds are full of swimmers, fishermen and picnickers. Although there are several other parks and playgrounds scattered throughout North St. Paul, Silver Lake is one of the most often visited.

#6—Unique taste treats! Homemade French fries at Village Pizza, Broasted Chicken from Pizza Factory and award winning homemade ice cream from the HomeTown Creamery ice cream shop are just a few of the delectable treats served daily in North St. Paul.

#5—Booya! The fall tradition of the North St. Paul fireman’s booya is an experience that no resident of North St Paul can resist! After a night of cooking up a ‘secret recipe’stew in giant pots, the volunteer fire department serves up their brew for all. Whether purchased by the bowl or pot, it is a fall tradition enjoyed by community residents for nearly a century!

#4— Friday Night History Cruz. Love classic cars? Spend a Friday evening in North St. Paul for the History Cruz. Hundreds of car enthusiasts invade the main street of downtown North St. Paul, 7th Avenue, to show off their prized vehicles and see the shiny chrome fenders of yesteryear.

#3—The Snowman. The snowman has been greeting the residents of North St. Paul since it was constructed in the 1970’s. It was originally downtown behind what is now K&J Catering, but later moved to a park at the corner of Hwy 36 and Margaret Street. For those keeping statistics, the snowman is 44 feet tall and weighs about 20 tons! The North St. Paul Snowman is also a social-media phenomena with nearly 10,000 likes on his Facebook Page.

#2—Eclectic Options for Living. Whether you want the convenience of a low-maintenance townhome, a historical turn of the century treasure, a 1950’s rambler or bungalow, or a recently constructed, modified two story, you can find an affordable option to rent or purchase in North St Paul.

#1—Friendly People. The number one reason for living in North St Paul is the welcoming community atmosphere. Isn’t that what most people search for in a place to call home?


Copyright 2012 www.terieckholm.com
 

One Size Does NOT Fit All When Selecting a REALTOR®

One of my family's favorite places to visit on a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is the Animation Building in Disney’s Hollywood Studios There is a spot after the animation tour where a couple dozen would-be illustrators can go for a half hour class with a Disney artist. The class gives step-by-step directions on how to draw a beloved Disney Character. It the past we have had the chance to draw Mickey , Goofy, Pluto, Stitch and even Jack Skellington and Scrooge McDuck. Thankfully, talent is not required and the only art on display is the actual instructors. At the end of the session, everyone leaves with a drawing that somewhat resembles the character that is up on the screen.

The best part of the day is when we compare our drawings Here are examples of my family’s drawings from when my sons were in grade school. Though all of our drawings look like Walt’s old pal, Mickey Mouse, none are identical to each other (and definitely NOT as expert as the one draw by the instructor!). Lesson learned? Everyone who can hold a pencil and follow simple instructions can draw Mickey Mouse, but it takes talent and experience to become a great Disney artist!

Now in real estate, there is a similar situation; anyone can take a real estate class but not all REALTORS® are exactly the same.

Though, REALTORS® do take the same required classes and tests to become agents and adhere to a very specific code of ethics, we are people not machines. As people, we are individuals with different life experiences and talents. Not every real estate agent does things exactly the same way. We all come into each experience with our own talents, abilities and backgrounds. Through education, we may become similar but not identical.

So what does working with a REALTOR® really mean to a buyer or seller?

REALTORS® do abide by a Code of Ethics. In my Minnesota real estate practice, I take these rules very seriously. It is considered the standard of practice that I work under as I truly believe it is the right way to do business. Although there are many details to the complete code of ethics, here are a few points I would like to highlight:

REALTORS® pledge to protect and promote the interests of their client.
REALTORS® do not mislead on property value.
REALTORS® must disclose material defects and facts on properties.
REALTORS® must not discriminate.
REALTORS® must disclose dual agency.
REALTORS® are required to be accountable for funds.
REALTORS® must disclose accepted offers.
REALTORS® are required to provide competent service.
REALTORS® are not lawyers and cannot offer legal advice.
REALTORS® preserve the confidential information of their clients.

When selecting a REALTOR® make sure that the person is on the same page with you and can draw up and present the contract in a professional manner. Take the time to research and select a professional REALTOR® that will be your partner and advocate. Work with a person you like and trust to help you understand the process and negotiate the best deal for you!

Copyright 2012 www.terieckholm.com

Key Things to Consider when Buying a Vintage Home

History can be a powerful draw to home buyers. A turn of the century home with unique rooms, window sizes, dormers, front porches, attics, stone fireplaces and hand crafted woodwork are sought after by many. Finding an affordable vintage home that has been properly maintained can be challenge. Sometimes the search can take a home buyer across the Twin Cities metro area from Summit Avenue in St Paul to homes along the St Croix in Stillwater to quaint neighborhoods in North St. Paul and Chisago.

There are vintage homes in every style and price point in the north and east Twin Cities Metro. Whether you seek a lovely old duplex, traditional two story or highly sought after mansion (the original executive home), there are some key considerations in purchasing a vintage home.

Updated with Style—Not current style but did the updates reflect the style of the era when the vintage home was originally constructed. If the updates to the home do not blend well with original home, the value of the home can be compromised.

Upgraded Plumbing and Electrical—If the furnace resembles and octopus and you need fuses for the electrical panel, there will be major updates required to the home at some time in the future.

Charming Windows—Decorative leaded glass and stained glass windows are beautiful. Many vintage homes will not only have beautiful window details but often there will be odd sized windows too. While this adds to the charm, it costs to have custom windows replaced.

Odd Sized Doors—Just like with the windows, often doors are not a standard size. This can lead to additional expense when repairing and/or replacing a door as it will have to be cut to measure.

A Good Foundation—When homes were constructed a century ago, there wasn’t a building code or city inspector. Often a corner of a home would be a “root” cellar without a foundation wall or floor. Sometimes the builder would just skim a thin layer of cement over the wall to make it look nice rather than use cement blocks. Though they have stood for decades, walls can deteriorate over time.

Garages and Sheds—Very few families owned cars or the lawn equipment we require today so when vintage houses were constructed there often weren’t garages. Look closely at any older detached garage as many can be unstable. Finding a vintage home with an attached garage means it was probably added on as a remodel. If this is the case, make certain it fits well with the existing structure of the home.

Closets—Homes in the early 1900’s were insured by the number of doors so bedrooms were often constructed without closets. Some closets or dressers were added later under the eaves in the upstairs of a home. Because people did not have the extensive wardrobes that we have today, closets were much smaller than what is expected today.

Original Hardwood—Properly refinished and maintained, vintage hardwood can be a one of the most beautiful features of the home. How do you check to see if the flooring is hardwood ? If the home has carpeting, look at the floor inside a closet or at the edge of the floor under a vent for clues as to what the flooring is like below.

Fireplaces and Chimneys—While beautiful and a focal point, be certain to have any original brick or stone fireplace inspected by a professional chimney expert prior to purchase. Over time bricks can loosen and linings crack which can be costly to repair.

This list is not all inclusive but a starting point of things to consider when searching for a vintage house to call home. The charm of a historical home is that it was handcrafted to be full of charm and not necessarily perfectly constructed.

Copyright 2012 www.terieckholm.com

10 FANTASTIC Reasons to Call SHOREVIEW, Minnesota HOME!

Shoreview, Minnesota attracts attention for many other reasons besides the twin, sky-scraping, radio transmission towers reaching high 1400+ feet into the air. Though not officially incorporated until 1957, Shoreview has a rich history. A good portion of what is now known as Shoreview was once inhabited by Dakota and Ojibwe Native America tribes. It was ceded to the US Government from the Ojibwe in 1837 and soon became known as a farming community. The Soo line of the railroad expanded into Shoreview in the late 1800’s and soon New Englanders and other European settlers came to farm the land. The iconic radio towers weren’t built until much later in 1963 but those three towers on 694 are still the tallest structures in the state of Minnesota. According to the 2000 census, nearly 26,000 people called Shoreview home. No doubt this decade’s survey will only add to the number of residents in this vibrant community.

Here is a top ten list of reasons why Shoreview Minnesota is such a great place to live.

#10—Turtleman Triathlon. Shoreview is home to Minnesota’s oldest triathlon, the Turtleman Triathlon which is run every August starting at Turtle Lake park. Hundreds of athletes take to the streets and shores of Shoreview for this annual summer event.

#9—Free Music and Movies! Concert in the Commons has been an annual tradition from June thru August. In 2010, free movies were added to the mix of family-friendly activities being shown at the Shoreview Commons Pavilion on Friday evenings in August. Bring popcorn or a picnic and have fun.

#8—Einhausen Sister City. For nearly a decade, the City of Shoreview has had a unique relationship with Einhausen, Germany as its sister city. As sister cities, Shoreview and Einhausen are partnered to promote a cultural understanding between the United States and Germany by creating opportunities for residents in the two communities to form personal relationships.

#7—Awesome Schools. Although Shoreview does not have it’s own secondary schools it is served by two highly rated school districts: Roseville School District 623 and Mounds View School District 621. It also has three community based public elementary schools within its borders: Emmet D. Williams Elementary School , Island Lake Elementary School, Turtle Lake Elementary School .

#6—Lakes AND Parks. Shoreview has several of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes within its borders. The largest and most notable are Island Lake, Lake Owasso, Snail Lake and Turtle Lake but there are also several smaller named lakes in Shoreview including: Grass Lake, Emily Lake, Lake Judy, Lake Wabasso, and Martha Lake as well as Rice Creek to enjoy the view of one of Minnesota’s greatest resources. And as for parks, there are too many great ones to mention…just check out this link to some of the best! Shoreview Parks and Playgrounds

#5—Bicycle Friendly Community! According to Shoreview’s community website, it is only one of three communities in Minnesota to have earned a “Bicycle Friendly Community” award. The Twin Cities Bicycle Club has notes several rides on it’s schedule on Shoreview’s trails all summer long!

#4—The Tropics! Where do you go for a little splashing fun when the Minnesota lakes are frozen? Why the Tropics of course! The Tropics Waterpark is an indoor oasis located in the Shoreview Community Center for kids of all ages to enjoy some water fun whether it is too hot & humid or cold & blustery. Since it opened, it has been a popular birthday party venue for residents in the north metro. But most people don’t want to wait for a party, everyday is a party at the affordable Tropics Waterpark.

#3— Enjoy a Slice! The Slice of Shoreview is an annual summer event with something for everyone. This community extravaganza held every July includes fun activities that have included a petting zoo, parade, car show, art fair, talent show and carnival. It is as fun as a county fair and an event the entire family can enjoy!

#2—Eclectic Options for Living. Whether you want the convenience of a low-maintenance townhome or condo, a home with a lakeshore view, a 1950’s rambler or bungalow, or a recently constructed, modified two story, you can find an affordable option to rent or purchase in Shoreview.

#1—Friendly People. The number one reason for living in Shoreview is the welcoming community atmosphere. Isn’t that what most people search for in a place to call home?

Copyright 2012 www.terieckholm.com 

What’s My House Worth in Ham Lake, MN? Or Lino Lakes, Forest Lake, Hugo orBlaine?

It's not a trick question. But it can be tricky to get a realistic answer because whether it is a buyer's market, seller's market or something in between, there is no simple way to come up with an exact market value for the average homeowner

Many people think if they pull out the big vinyl envelope from the last time they refinanced they have a document with an accurate home value. After all good money was paid, usually several hundred dollars, for an appraiser to come up with a dollar figure of value for the bank to approve the loan. So is the appraised value what your home is worth?

Some people look to the assessed values that arrive on an annual basis from the Anoka County or Washington County assessor. It seems reasonable that this would be an indication of a property's current value.
 
Another resource internet savvy people look to for an idea of the value of their home is an  interactive real estate website like Zillow  or Trulia. Type in the property address and within seconds a slew of interesting information pops up the computer screen. But is a Zestimate value as accurate a resource as Kelly's Blue Book is for an automobile?
 
In a word, no. But all of these values and resources do provide some clues to the value of a property. 

People with no plans to sell their home, will often use these resources to get a ballpark idea and indication of their home's value. But if a homeowner wants to put their home on the market and sell,  there is no special real estate Magic 8 Ball for determining the best starting price. A savvy home seller will work with a knowledgeable REALTOR®, who knows their community, to get the best advice on their home's market value.

Many things affect the selling price.  For instance a Forest Lake area home located on the west side of 35 in Columbus with quick access to 35, convenient to schools and shopping might be more desirable to buyers than a home on the far eastern side of Forest Lake. But a home in town with public utilities rather than a private well and septic system also affects market value. Value is also dependent upon whether or not the property on a busy road, near power lines or close to parks and playgrounds. And of course the home's ammenities like, square footage, how many updates have been done to the home and do they fit the property and the neighborhood need to be assessed. Considerations like these are only the tip of the iceberg in determining a market value of a home.

As a REALTOR®, I serve the communities in the Forest Lake school district and Anoka County. From Forest Lake to Hugo and Lino Lakes to Blaine and beyond, I keep my ear to the ground to hear what affects the prices of homes in the north and east Twin Cities metro area. Are you planning to move this summer and need to know what your home is worth? Do you want expert advice from someone who knows the Anoka County and Forest Lake District #831 area? Let me help you! Contact me to schedule a FREE market value assessment.  I won't bring a magic 8 ball, instead I will bring my real estate pricing expertise and experience!

 Copyright 2012 www.terieckholm.com

Essential Spring Repairs Optimize Minnesota Home Values

Spring Repairs to Maintain Home Values in Minnesota

A few weeks ago, annual property tax notices reach the mailboxes of many Anoka County and Washington County homeowners. Assessors processed this information based on last year's sales and assessments so while the real estate market is picking up, many home assessed values continued to decrease. The county assessor will often review a home from the exterior and make a value determination. 

So as spring has sprung, it's time for Minnesota homeowners start thinking it's time for the "honey-do" list of spring projects. 

Keeping your home in tiptop shape is essential in optimizing your property’s assessed and market value. Even if you don’t intend to sell your home this summer, there are a few essential things to check, repair and or replace after ever Minnesota winter. As REALTOR® in the north and east Twin Cities metro, I see many properties that have not been properly cared for. Throughout Anoka County, Chisago County and northern Washington County, the areas where I work extensively, I have seen houses with interior ceiling damage from leaking roofs, potholed, cracked driveways and decks that are downright scary to walk on.
 
Surprisingly, these are not all foreclosure homes. It is frustrating to have to make repairs just prior to selling your home. Some traditional sellers who chose to sell in recovering real estate market and are frustrated as they often will have to make thousands of dollars in repairs in order to sell due to lack of maintenance--or make a drastic price concession to a buyer. Not making the repairs means pricing your home to compete directly with foreclosure homes. Offers on under-maintained homes come in at thousands less than expected--If they get offers at all. Neither choice is appealing to sellers when values are depressed.

I have often heard a seller wish they had chosen to keep the home in better condition over the last decade so they could have enjoyed the benefit of a well maintained home. It is much more beneficial and cost effective to assess your property on an annual basis and make repairs as necessary.

Here are 6 spring maintenance tips that will not only beautify your home, but also aid in retaining your home’s value for years to come:

1. Roof—Walk around the exterior of your home with binoculars and check for any missing or curling shingles. Shingles on roofs can be blown off in severe winter weather. If any are missing or you see other concerns such as curling or partial shingles, bring in a contractor to assess the damage and make repairs before you have water damage on the interior of your home.
2. Siding—Power wash debris buildup from vinyl or aluminum siding. Buildup can stain siding overtime. 
3. Deck Settling—Check for any settling or worn boards on your deck especially if it is several feet off of the ground. If the supports of your deck appear to be pulling away from the home or if the boards are weather-worn, have it reviewed by a professional before that first summer barbeque. 
4. Paint  & Stain—Did the harsh winter sleet, snow and ice cause the paint or stain on your siding, trim or deck to start to peel? Now is the time to assess the damage.
5.  Gutters—Gutters filled with leaves? Take the time to clean out to prevent water backups. Keeping water away from the foundation is the best way to keep water out of your basement. If your gutters are clogged, they cannot do the job and the rains will pour right over the clogged-gutter’s edge near the walls of your home. Consider adding screens or guards to prevent leave buildup in the future. 
6. Driveway—The winter’s freeze and thaw cycle can do damage to an asphalt driveway. Cracks need to be filled or they will get worse. It is recommended that blacktop driveways also be seal-coated every 2 years. If the driveway has long term exposure to extreme sunlight, seal coating might be recommended on an annual basis to extend the life of your driveway.

Copyright 2012 Teri Eckholm 

Minnesota Lakes are NOT Yet Warm Enough for Safe Swimming!

Minnesota's state motto claims we live in the land of 10,000 lakes, yet there is actually over 12,000 in this great northern state. However, one thing is for certain; all MN lakes are all too cold for swimming in the spring.  This March marked several record breaking temperatures in the high 70's and I know more than a few Minnesotan's were tempted to turn on their central air yet a quick jump in the lake could have been deadly. It is normal for air temperatures in April and May to occasionally be as warm and sultry as August, making the water in those 10,000+ lakes look very refreshing. But beware. In order to swim safely, the water temperatures need to be at 70 degrees. Most Minnesota lakes do not reach a 70 degree temperature until late May. Some lakes in the northern part of the state never get that warm during the year!

It is important for all Minnesotans to understand the affects of hypothermia and cold water are not limited to the winter months. Spring temperatures in a Minnesota lake or river are just as problematic. Knowing the exact temperature of body of water is essential before taking a dip to cool off to determine how long a person can safely stay in the water. Low lake water temperatures will affect children more quickly due to their smaller size. Their bodies will not be able to withstand the cold temperatures as long as an adult can.

Coldwaterwarning.com is a website developed in memory of a 9  year old Minnesota boy who died on April 30, 2004 when he chose to swim in a cold Minnesota lake. Brian James Jacobson was a lively little boy and good swimmer. It is believed his abilities were completely stalled in the frigid water. This is a sad reminder of how dangerous cold water swimming can be. 

Minnesota has thousands of beautiful lakes within its borders. But be forewarned, the inviting beauty is best enjoyed from the shore until warm the water has warmed sufficiently for safe swimming.

Copyright 2012 Teri Eckholm 

Bridal Registry Out of the Box! Newlyweds Want Dream Home!

Why can't a bride and groom take that little bar code scanner from Target or Macy's and scan a photo of a new home instead? I know couples need the department store stuff like blenders, coffee makers and blankets but they will need a first home too!  

What if brides and grooms could  browse the internet listings on any real estate website or drop by a neighborhood open house and use a special "dream home scanner" to click on a favorite home. Then they could receive the keys to their dream home just in time to be carried over the threshold. THAT, my friends, would be a fairy tale ending or beginning; a really start to happily ever after.

It may sound off the wall but newlyweds are going to face a tougher time finding a loan without a down payment.  Zero down loans have all but disappeared from the landscape and first time buyers will need cash in their pockets to put toward a new home. As mortgage programs continue to change and evolve, it has become imperative to save for that down payment. Forward thinking young people might want to divert some of their wedding funds and gifts into an investment in real estate.

In this changed real estate market, new home buyers NEED a down payment for a house. Not just a few bucks either. In most cases a buyer will require a minimum of 3-5% to put down. Minnesota starter homes run about $150,000 in the north and east Twin Cities metro. So,  newlyweds today will need to save up a minimum of $5,000-$10,000, plus closing costs before making a first home purchase.

All is not lost for first time buyers, but a little forward thinking is in order. There is a lot of money involved in most weddings; both on the party planning and the gift recipient side. A savvy bride and groom might be able to devise a plan to have the perfect wedding AND a dream home.

New Home Gift Registry Young couples getting married register for gifts to let their friends and family know exactly what they want and need. If you need a house, why not let your guests know? How about adding a note to the invitation stating your gift preference?

“The couple is registered for a small number of necessities at Target and Macys. If you would prefer not to shop, they are also saving for a down payment for a new home and would a appreciate monetary gift toward their dream.”

I don’t know what Miss Manner’s would say about but I think a financial wiz like Suze Orman would applaud the idea.

Wedding Budget With the average wedding pushing $20,000, maybe a little rearranging of the budget could be a way to find some funds. Those saved dollars from the perfect wedding can go toward that dream home instead. Now, I am not suggesting going the bargain basement route on anything and everything, just economize where it makes sense. Maybe you can go opt for less fancy invitations or choose a less expensive dress. Maybe that cruise to the Caymans would be a better choice for a future anniversary and a honeymoon in Duluth, MN creating newlywed memories along the north shore of Lake Superior would be be a budget friendly change. Whether on wedding details, reception or the honeymoon, saving 25% of an average wedding bill would be $5000 cash toward a new home.

So young couples start planning your future with a plan for your dream home too! While the current technology does not allow a scanner to work outside of a department store, I do! Adjust the budget to come up with the down payment and I can assist you with finding your dream home.

As a professional REALTOR®, I have helped many young couples find their first home.. I know the north and east Twin Cities metro area and can help you spot a dream home deal whether you are looking in Lino Lakes, Blaine, Andover or anywhere in the Forest Lake school district. I can assist you in writing a fair offer and negotiate a deal so your dream can become a reality. And (more budget friendly advice here)....Having your OWN agent doesn't cost you any additional fees--The seller pays my commission! Working with an agent to find your first home, takes the stress out of the home buying process so you can focus on making your wedding day special rather than moving in details too. 

Copyright 2012 Teri Eckholm 

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 

Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions--East Bethel Black Bear Against the Clouds!

In East Bethel, Minnesota on the north side of Highway 65 sits this tall carved black bear. It is a beautiful carving and one I am proud to add to my series of Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions!

Copyright 2012 Teri Eckholm

Love Your Pet! Protect Your Home!

Tips for protecting home from pet damage

Just yesterday I was out showing homes in northern Anoka County. We were at a lovely, well kept home in East Bethel. As we pulled into the driveway, we could hear barking from the garage. The two kenneled dogs did not bother the showing at all. But as I inspected the home with my buyers, we noticed chew marks on the oak door frame near the floor.. In this particular case, my buyers discounted the small flaw in an otherwise meticulously well kept home, Pets do make a difference when selling a home.

Americans LOVE their pets! Dogs, cats, bunnies, snakes, hamsters...you name it. Some people let them sleep in the bedroom or eat in their kitchens. Others will cook fresh food for the dog, while nuking a frozen meal for the family. People dress their pets up and treat them like a member of the family (well, they are, aren't they?) But it is important to remember the damage a pet can do to your home.

As a REALTOR® working in the north and east Minneapolis and St Paul metro area, I have seen some strange pets inside of some homes...everything from lizards to a tank of fresh trout and a rabbit with the run of the house. And of course, there are people who have dogs and cats too. Many homeowners take great measures to protect their homes and property but some do not.

A few years ago I walked into a vacant home that was clean to the eye yet the potential buyers who were able to pick out the exact closet where litter box used to be located. Not only have I have seen puppy's teeth marks on the sides of oak door frames, I have seen similar damage to cedar decking and claw marks on wood floors. I have walked through extensively landscaped yards destroyed by holes dug by chained dogs. I have witnessed the family cat of a seller jumping up and attaching itself to the screen apparently to notifiy its owner it was time to come back inside. One home had a huge terrarium full of noisy crickets and a note letting all potential buyers that this was the food for the lizards in the other room. There was a family of sellers with the horse in the front yard leaving droppings by the entrance. But the loose rabbit hopping through the home leaving droppings (that were NOT jelly beans) had to be the worst!

While these "petscapades" are amusing to read about, it's not so funny when you go to sell your home. When if you are trying to sell and haven't addressed pet damage and odor issues, you may find yourself discounting your selling price significantly to attract a buyer.

Odors are the worst. People who keep pets in carpeted rooms even in cages or kennels can have serious problems. Clean any accident immediately with a special cleaner designed to remove pet urine odors. In extreme cases the odor will not be removed with a simple steam cleaning. In this situation the carpet should be replaced. Homeowners with poorly trained pets may find that they are not only replacing the carpet but also the padding and  the sub-flooring to eliminate the smell.

But smells aren't the only problem. Stains from accidents or the ground-in dirt from a favorite sleeping spot can be impossible to remove. Our cats knocked down a just-watered plant onto our light-colored carpeting a few years ago. The damp potting soil never completely was removed from the carpet. We plan to replace that carpet prior to selling our home. When our dog started to stain the carpet by sleeping in the exact same spot day after day, we invested in a few dog beds. By strategically placing the beds around the house, we protected our carpets from further discoloration.

It is possible to love your pet and protect your home!

• Keep your pet well groomed to reduce odor, hair and nail damage.
• Get a pet bed for your dogs and cats. Dogs loves the extra comfort and it keeps dirt and sweat from his coat from going into the carpet fibers. We will move his from room to room during the day so he can stay with us. If this is too much trouble, buy several. They are considerably cheaper than replacing carpet. Our cat uses his bed daily too. It is positioned for his easy access in front of his favorite window so he doesn't jump and leave marks on the woodwork.
• Have a proper sized kennel or cage for exotic pets and clean often.
• Clear all accidents immediately. Use special pet cleaners to remove odors and stains.
• Cover all exposed woodwork especially around windows. Pets love to jump up and look out windows. Use gates to limit your pet's access to soft wood floors like birch or cherry wood. Nail marks require the floor to be completely sanded down before refinishing. It can get very costly.
• Don't chain your dog to the side of your house. Chains and bolts can cause both cosmetic and structural damage to your home.
• If your dog shows behavior problems such as chewing, clawing etc, address them immediately to avoid damage to your home.

Copyright 2012 Teri Eckholm