Septic Systems Maintenance is No Joke! But they do have funny slogans

Every three years like clockwork, I put in a call to Olson's to have our septic pumped out. It’s a dirty business and somebody’s gotta do it. The City of Ham Lake where we live, does not have a public sewer system. We all have individual sewage disposal or septic systems in our yards. The septic pumping and inspection is mandatory every three years. Getting your septic pumped and inspected is a requirement of most Twin Cities metro municipalities. State and county codes are not specific on the subject of on-site or individual sewage disposal systems (ISDS) or septic systems, leaving it up to each Minnesota city to adopted their own rules for inspection.

We have had Olson’s Sewer Service of Forest Lake maintain and inspect our system since we moved to our Ham Lake acreage. Their slogan, “keeping your sewer in the pink” and hot pink trucks are seen all over Forest Lake, Columbus, Lino Lakes, Wyoming and Ham Lake. When the pink reminder postcard arrives in the mail, we schedule our inspection right away.

Olson’s slogan while catchy is tame compared to others as septic professionals really have a sense of humor about the role they play in the community. Here is a list of some favorites that have been seen on sewage and plumbing trucks all over the US:

· Yesterday's Meals on Wheels
· We're #1 in the #2 business.
· You Dump It, We Pump It
· After the first whiff, call Cliff.
· A good flush beats a full house
· We do Pump 'N Right
· We'll take crap from anybody.
· Satisfaction guaranteed or your merchandise cheerfully returned.
· Your poop is our bread and butter!
· Your brown is our green.

If you have a septic system on your property, check with city hall for specific time frames. While once every three years is required in Ham Lake, it is once every two years in Lino Lakes. Most cities require that the tank, drain field and baffles of the system be checked at the same time. The licensed contractor will provide a completed permit to the city to document the inspection.

This is not an optional inspection. If you choose not to inspect your system, the city might do it for you. Then you could be on the hook for additional fines and charges from your city.

Copyright 2013 www.terieckholm.com

Time is Running Out! Trim Oaks by April 1st to Prevent Oak Wilt!

The snow is quickly melting away and spring has sprung! If your oak trees require trimming, do not delay. Oak wilt is devastating to the landscape across Anoka County. Oak trees should be trimmed in the late fall or winter months. If you have overgrown oak trees, trim them this week or wait until fall to avoid exposure to this tree-killing disease!

As a REALTOR who lives and works in the areas of Blaine, Ham Lake and Lino Lakes, I am very aware of how this tree-killing disease affects property values throughout Anoka County and the north metro. Two years ago I shared photos of a property in our Ham Lake neighborhood where the owners had been dealing with oak wilt for the past several years. In one summer alone this property lost 11 trees. While the amazing thicket of mature oak trees is gone, the new owners took the initiative to save the remaining oaks and with treatment and proper care no additional trees have been lost in nearly two years.

Oak wilt is not just a Ham Lake problem. It is prevalent in communities from Lino Lakes to North Branch and Forest Lake to Stacy. Whether you live in Anoka, Chisago or Washington County, if you have oaks on your property, you need to take precautions to protect them from this deadly disease.What is Oak Wilt?
Oak wilt is a disease caused by a fungus which attacks the central system of the tree from the roots to the leaves. The tree attempts to block the fungus, but also blocks all water and nutrients to the branches and leaves. Eventually, the trees leaves wilt and it dies.

Oak wilt spreads through the root systems of near by trees and by fungus beetles that carry the oak wilt spores from tree to tree. For additional information on oak wilt from the University of MN Extention Service CLICK HERE.

How to Protect YOUR Trees

The fungus beetles infect trees that have been recently injured or trimmed. These beetles are very active in the spring and summer months. Oaks should be protected from damage and not trimmed from April through July.

Trim large mature oaks now. As a preventative to spring storm damage, have your large oaks trimmed now so that heavy, dead branches won’t fall during tornado season and break other healthy limbs.

Tree trimming of mature oaks is best left to professionals especially near the power lines. The trimmer should use a bucket truck or a line/pulley system, NOT spiked climbing boots which can damage the tree.

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

Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics Year End 2008

Like much of the real estate in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, Lino Lakes, MN in Anoka County is amazingly affordable. This year properties sold but the average selling price was directly affected by the bank owned and lender mediated properties on the market. Traditional homes had longer market times but properties were selling.

Though Lino Lakes has a good mixture of lakeshore, acreage and townhome residences but is more known for having a bit of space between the houses. It conveniently located near the junction of the 35E and 35W split, just 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.

The year end numbers for Lino Lakes sales show area homes were selling slower than last year with an average of 160 days on the market for sold properties (DOM) compared with 141 days DOM in the fourth quarter of 2007. Looking at current inventory levels and the rate of sales for homes priced under $300,000, there is about 10-11 months of inventory. This does seem a little longer than in surrounding communities. Hopefully things will pick up again as the snow melts away.
While homes under $300,000 in Lino Lakes have a manageable inventory level high end homes continue to sell at a slower pace but surprisingly, not by much. Based on the year end statistics, it will now take about 13 months to sell the current inventory of homes above the $400,000 price tag. This is down considerably in Lino Lakes from last year when the inventory level hovered around the two year mark for absorption. Surrounding Anoka County areas still have 2 plus years of inventory as we started 2009.

2008 Average Sales Price of all homes sold in Lino Lakes:

• All Homes $259,826


• Single Family Homes $276,580


• Townhomes/Condos $169,074

2008 Average Cummulative Days on Market in Lino Lakes:

• All Homes 160


• Single Family Homes 157


• Townhomes/Condos 178

4th Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:
Under $200,000~ 43 Active Listings, 7 Pending Listings, 27 Sold Listings, 131 CDOM
$200,000-$300,000 ~ 45 Active Listings, 5 Pending Listings, 62 Sold Listings, 136 CDOM
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 29 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 27 Sold Listings, 160 CDOM
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 8 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 7 Sold Listings, 232 CDOM
$500,000 and Up~ 12 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 7 Sold Listings, 267 CDOM
Lakeshore available in Lino Lakes as of 2/25/20093 Active Listings
Lino Lakes lakeshore price range: $499,000-$698,000
1 Home on Baldwin Lake
2 Homes on Reshanau LakeAcreage properties available in Lino Lakes as of 2/25/2009
11 properties listed on 1-2 Acres priced between $192,500-$799,900.
3 properties listed on 3-5 Acres priced between $145,000-$550,000
3 properties listed on 5-10 Acres priced between $349,000-$650,000
1 property listed on 10.92 Acres priced at $279,900
1 property listed on 29 Acres priced at $849,900
1 property listed on 80 Acres priced at $6,000,000

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 sold based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/08 through 12/31/08.

Copyright 2009 terieckholm.com

2008 Year End Snapshot of Lino Lakes, MN Home Sales Statistics

The number of closed sales took a drastic drop in Lino Lakes, Minnesota in 2008. Over 25% fewer homes were sold last year in the Lino Lakes area than in 2007. The number of new listings is down as well along with the average price of a home sold. It took about a month longer to sell a home in Lino Lakes, Minnesota in 2008 compared to in 2007 but the Days on Market Statistic is still significantly lower than in some other north metro communities.. The average sales price for a home is down just over 14%. This probably reflects that more lower priced homes are selling than those at the higher price points as well as the flattening of home values. As in other Twin Cities north metro areas, affordability is up. If you are a home buyer looking for the right time to buy a Lino Lakes, this may be the best time in a long time to make your move!

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

Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 3rd Quarter 2008

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 still selling. During the third quarter, single family homes had a cumulative days on the market statistic (DOM) of 151 days or about five months average selling time in the Lino Lakes area. While encouraging, these are summer numbers and it will be interesting to see if the momentum continues into the fall and winter. Active homes priced under $300,000 seem to be selling well and with thirteen in pending, it seems there is still some momentum as we head into October in this category. There currently is about a six month absorption rate meaning it will take six months for the current inventory of homes to be sold if no additional homes are listed. Lino Lakes existing homes continue to compete with available new construction in Hugo and Blaine. But as it is in southern Anoka County, its sales figures do not tend to be as stagnant as northern Anoka County communities like Ham Lake and Linwood.

High end home sales are starting to move in Lino Lakes. This is welcome news as no high end homes were sold in the first quarter of 2008. There were still just a handful of sales in the $400,000-$500,000 category but the 6 sales over $500,000 is an encouraging sign.
Acreage opportunities are abundant in the Lino Lakes area! From one acre parcels to 15 acre hobby farms, Anoka County as quite a selection of homes in the Lino Lakes area. Many have been on the market for a quite a while. With continued low interest rates, it is a great time to negotiate a deal on your piece of Minnesota acreage!

1st Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 50 Active Listings, 13 Pending Listings, 22 Sold Listings, 145 DOM
$300,000-$400,000 ~ 30 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 7 Sold Listings, 145 DOM
$400,000-$500,000 ~ 13 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listing, 181 DOM
$500,000 and Up~ 13 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 6 Sold Listings, 152 DOM

Lakeshore available in the City of Lino Lakes:
4 Active Listings
Lino Lakes lakeshore price range: $324,900-$698,000

1 Home on Baldwin Lake
1 Home on Otter Lake
2 Home on Reshanau Lake

Acreage properties available in Lino Lakes:

12 properties listed on 1-2 Acres priced between $89,900-$799,900
2 property listed on 3-5 Acres priced at $264,900-$550.000
3 properties listed on 5-10 Acres priced at $319,900-$579,900
1 property listed on 10-15 Acres priced at $689,900
1 property listed on 20 Acres priced at $429,900
1 property listed on 80 Acres priced at $6,000,000

**All Sold and Pending Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 7/1/08 through 9/30/08.
Articles on Lino Lakes, Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

• Dreaming of Life on MN Acreage?--What YOU Need to Know Before YOUR Move!


• EXTREMELY Affordable Minnesota Lakeshore!


• Forest Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics Third Quarter 2008


• Circle Pines & Lexington, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 3rd Quarter 2008


• Ham Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 3rd Quarter 2008


• Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distraction—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 2008 terieckholm.com

Check Out the Deadliest Rural Roads in Ham Lake, Anoka County, Minnesota and Throughout the US!

Last week a driver’s education car was broadsided on Highway 8 in Chisago County. The student driver was making a legal left hand turn and was hit by another driver who ran a red light. The instructor was killed. In the spring, two drivers perished in a head-on crash just a few miles east of this same intersection.

A few days prior to school ending this past June, a mother and son heading north on Highway 61 through White Bear Township to a graduation party. They were hit in a head-on accident and died at the scene. Unfortunately, these two were not the only fatalities on Hwy 61 this past year.

While there is no doubt that two-lane rural roads are deadly, as a REALTOR ® living in Anoka County and working the north and east metro, I have to drive several rural roads that are known to be unsafe. Unsafe, not for any other reason but that they are two lane roads with narrow shoulders and careless drivers. These are well-traveled two lane roads where deer run through the fields and jump into traffic. Busy commuters have no patience for a slower drivers and farmers on these roads and pass without care. There are no hands free laws in Minnesota so texting and talking play a role in unsafe driving. There are some roads known to be more deadly than others and now there is a tool to pinpoint which ones carry the most risk.

The University of Minnesota in cooperation with the Center for Excellence in Rural Safety has just developed website that shows just how safe our roadways are in Minnesota and across the United States! With a half of all fatal accidents occurring on two lane rural roads, this unique website is worth checking out to see just how dangerous country roads can be. Put in your address and see how many fatalities have occurred on roads within 10 miles of your home. Click the link and see if people were driving carelessly, under-the-influence and whether seat belts were worn. It gives additional specifics on the occupants in each accident with details including age and sex taken from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System.SafeRoadMaps.org is a geographic information system based Mashup with Google Maps used to identify rural and urban road transportation safety issues and statistics through a publicly accessible website. In a nutshell, it is an important new tool to plan a safe commute not only when I have to be showing homes throughout Ham Lake, Columbus, Lino Lakes and Forest Lake but when I have commute safely home from baseball games and speech meets with my family in tow!

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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

Lives Changed in 30 Seconds--Twin Cities North Metro Memorial Weekend Tornados

In under a minute, life changed for so many residents of the Twin Cities north metro this past Memorial Day weekend. Several of the communities I serve as a Realtor, from Coon Rapids though Blaine, Lino Lakes and Centerville, ending in Hugo, were hit out of the beautiful blue sky by a tornado. Minnesotans were on alert all week from local weather reporters that conditions were ripe for such an event. And the unthinkable happened; the tornado took with it not only dozens homes but the smile of a two-year-old little boy.

On Monday only residents were allowed into Hugo for security and safety reasons. There are many photos of the torn apart housing development online already. We did drive by this Centerville farm that was demolished; the property was hit just moments prior to crossing 35E into Hugo. The debris from the silos is still scattered on the shoulder of the freeway on the other side of the huge farm field today.

From the time we are children, we are taught in Minnesota what to do in severe weather. We participated in tornado drills at schools. We looked to the sky when the sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of the month. We knew intellectually that tornadoes could be devastating but we always thought we would be safe in our basements.

Not so anymore as families across Anoka County and Washington County learned this past weekend. A twister is not a movie or an exciting scene on television. It can be a real event and we cannot be complacent.

We heard the rumble of the storm outside our Ham Lake home before the sirens went off. I thought it was unusual to hear an airplane flying in this weather. I clicked on the TV and heard that the storm had just hit in Coon Rapids and was heading through Blaine with reports of damage near Hwy 65 and Bunker Lake Blvd. Sirens or not, we went to the basement as I was well aware that tornadoes typically move in a northeastern direction and we directly in its path.

The alarms sounded just as we were going down the steps in our usual lackadaisical way. We sat at the bottom of the staircase; in fact I was on the steps, ready to head back up as soon as the event was over. We were just mildly concerned as we watched the minute-by-minute storm report on the portable television. The storm had change direction from its northeastern track and was now headed due east. We were thankful that it was no longer heading toward our home.

Being from the north eastern part of the Twin Cities, growing up in North St. Paul and selling homes throughout this area, I made a mental note of who was now in the storm's path. A few relatives and friends came to mind. A close friend’s business. A cousin and his wife. A young couple who moved into a home I sold last fall.

The storm ripped a line of damage through Anoka and into Washington County and literally blew apart 27 homes in Hugo. From the accounts on the news, the tornado blew through Hugo in 30 seconds. Lives were forever changed in less than a minute.
Over the last couple days, we have found that several of our friends, family members and coworkers were affected by the storm. Most had minor damage. Some lost windows. Many have hail-damaged roofs and siding or fallen trees in their yards. And then there are those who lost everything.

As I hear the stories of where people were as the storm hit, many in the safety of their basement, I began to reassess our preparedness for this event. Something about the sound of the storm was different so this time I had grabbed all of our cell phones as I went down the steps. I won’t feel so foolish about this the next time. My husband and I discussed where we plan to sit in the cellar during the next storm (northeast corner ready to head under a sturdy worktable.) We are somewhat thankful that we don’t have that walkout basement that we always wanted as we have few windows to avoid. We will be safer and more vigilant during the next storm.

It was always someone else, somewhere else…This time the storm was too close and too real for my family to ever be complacent again.

View footage of the tornado and aftermath on YouTube by Clicking HERE.

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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

Blaine, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008

Blaine continues to expand and change the north metro of the Twin Cities albeit at a slower pace than in the past few years. The residential real estate construction boom in Blaine during the past decade has slowed but not stopped making new and existing home purchase opportunities very affordable. Conveniently located along 35W and Highway 65 and connected by Highway 10 just north of the Twin Cities, Blaine is an attractive location for both business and residential development. The community is served by three school districts; Anoka Hennepin District #11, Centennial District #12, and Spring Lake Park District #16. Blaine is best known for the National Sports Center a sport and meeting facilility that hosts an annual worldwide soccer event and Tournament Players Club golf course where the PGA Senior tour is played every summer.

Real estate in Blaine, MN in Anoka County is affordable and selling—though admittedly at a slower pace than most sellers would like. The first quarter numbers show area homes are staying on the market an average of 147 days. When broken down to single family homes versus townhomes/ condos, the single family homes have a 150 average CDOM while townhomes/condos are selling a bit faster with a 143 CDOM. This could be do to builder incentives on the abundance of new construction properties making condo starter homes attractive to first time buyers.

The 147 CDOM for Blaine is better than in other areas of the north metro like Forest Lake, Lino Lakes and Ham Lake where homes have a cumulative days-on-market rate (CDOM) of well over 200 days. (Links to statistical reports for these communities are listed below.)


Inventory levels of single family homes under $300,000 in Blaine have remain quite manageable. Higher price homes are not only selling at a slower pace, they have to compete with new construction for the buyers. However the sale of higher priced homes remain stagnant. High priced existing homes are competing with new construction properties in the same category…Tough competition in any market .
1st Quarter Blaine residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~136 Active Listings, 7 Pending Listings, 62 Sold Listings, CDOM 143(New Construction Subgroup 12 Active, 0 Pending, 3 Sold)

$300,000-$400,000~48 Active Listings, 3 Pending Listings, 9 Sold Listings, CDOM 159(New Construction Subgroup 14 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold)

$400,000-$500,000~30 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 7 Sold Listings, CDOM 177(New Construction Subgroup 11 Active, 0 Pending, 2 Sold)

$500,000-$1,000,000~39 Active Listings, 3 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings, CDOM 259 (New Construction Subgroup 14 Active, 2 Pending, 0 Sold)

$1,000,000 and Up~4 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings (New Construction Subgroup 1 Active, 0 Pending, 0 Sold)


1st Quarter Blaine residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:

Under $300,000~116 Active Listings, 7 Pending Listings, 47 Sold Listings, CDOM 142 (New Construction Subgroup 18 Active, 4 Pending, 9 Sold)


$300,000-$400,000~12 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, CDOM 214 (New Construction Subgroup 7 Active, 0 Pending, 1 Sold)

$400,000-$500,000~8 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings (New Construction Subgroup 6 Active, 1 Pending, 0 Sold)

$500,000-$1,000,000~1 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings (New Construction Subgroup 1 Active, 0 Pending, 0 Sold)

$1,000,000 and Up~1 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings


**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1/1/08 through 3/31/08.

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


Articles on Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:
Does "Minnesota Nice" Affect the Real Estate Market? "Yah, You Betcha!"
Anoka County Foreclosures Rate Highest in Metro—How Does this Affect Homeowners?
Dreaming of Life on MN Acreage?--What YOU Need to Know Before YOUR Move!
Affordable Minnesota Lakeshore
Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008
Forest Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008
Ham Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008

Featured Anoka County Listing (Pictured Above):
15139 E Vermillion Circle NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304

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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

Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008

Real estate in Lino Lakes, MN in Anoka County is still selling. Active homes in the lower price ranges seem to be up a bit but also continue to sell more quickly than homes in the higher priced categories. Lino Lakes existing homes continue to compete with available new construction in Hugo and Blaine. But as it is in southern Anoka County, it’s sales figures do not tend to be as stagnant as northern Anoka County communities like Ham Lake and Linwood.

High end home sales continue to struggle for sales. No homes were sold in the last 3 months, for sellers in above the $500,000 price and just a handful of sales in the $400,000-$500,000 category. The DOM seems skewed by the quick sale of two listings compared to a 215 DOM last quarter. No doubt these homes were priced to sell from the time they were listed.

Acreage opportunities are abundant in the Lino Lakes area! From one acre parcels to 15 acre hobby farms, Anoka County as quite a selection of homes in the Lino Lakes area. Many have been on the market for a quite a while. With continued low interest rates, it is a great time to negotiate a deal on your piece of Minnesota acreage!

1st Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 54 Active Listings, 4 Pending Listings, 15 Sold Listings, 156 DOM

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 31 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listings, 215 DOM

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 13 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 1Sold Listing, 68 DOM

$500,000 and Up~ 16 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings N/A DOM

Lakeshore available in the City of Lino Lakes

1 Active Listings Lino Lakes lakeshore price range: $450,000

1 Home on Otter Lake

Acreage properties available in Lino Lakes

9 properties listed on 1-2 Acres priced between $189,900-$859,900.

2 properties listed on 2-3 Acres priced between $254,000-$269,900

1 property listed on 3-5 Acres priced at $269,900

2 properties listed on 5-10 Acres priced at $319,900-$379,900

1 property listed on 10-15 Acres priced at $408,900
1 property listed on 80 Acres priced at $6,000,000

**All Sold and Pending Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1 /1/08 through 3/31/08.

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Lino Lakes, 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

Got Shaggy Oaks? Trim NOW and Prevent Oak Wilt!

Oak wilt is devastating to the landscape in communities across Anoka County and Minnesota. Prevent oak wilt spread by smart landscaping and maintenance. Oak trees should be trimmed in the late fall or winter months. If you have overgrown oak trees, now is the time to trim them and avoid exposure to this tree-killing disease!

Last summer I photographed a neighboring property in Ham Lake that has been battling oak wilt for the past four years. In just three months this property lost nearly a dozen of these majestic trees. (Read Oak Wilt—A Minnesota Tragedy for the full story.) What was once a home with a tree screened view from the street, now has only a handful of small trees left to block the cars. The amazing thicket of mature oak trees is gone.

Oak wilt is not just a Ham Lake problem. It is prevalent in communities from Lino Lakes to North Branch and Forest Lake to Stacy. Whether you live in Anoka, Chisago or Washington County, if you have oaks on your property, you need to take precautions to protect them from this deadly disease.

What is Oak Wilt?

Oak wilt is a disease caused by a fungus which attacks the central system of the tree from the roots to the leaves. The tree attempts to block the fungus, but also blocks all water and nutrients to the branches and leaves. Eventually, the trees leaves wilt and it dies.

Oak wilt spreads through the root systems of near by trees and by fungus beetles that carry the oak wilt spores from tree to tree. For additional information on oak wilt from the University of MN Extention Service CLICK HERE.

How to Protect Your Trees

The fungus beetles infect trees that have been recently injured or trimmed. These beetles are very active in the spring and summer months. Oaks should be protected from damage and not trimmed from April through July.

Trim large mature oaks now. As a preventative to spring storm damage, have your large oaks trimmed now so that heavy, dead branches won’t fall during the spring tornado season and break other healthy limbs.

Tree trimming of mature oaks is best left to professionals especially near the power lines. The trimmer should use a bucket truck or a line/pulley system, NOT spiked climbing boots which can damage the tree.

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

What’s My Home Worth in Forest Lake, MN? Or Ham Lake? Or Lino Lakes? Or Blaine?

Sound’s like a trick question in this market doesn’t it? Funny thing is that no matter what the market is like, the answer is not simple.

What if you dig into your closet or file cabinet for that big vinyl envelope you received when you finalized your refinance last year? There was an appraised value for your home in that paperwork. Is that what your home is worth?

Assessed values from the Washington County or Anoka County assessor are updated annually. That should be a pretty accurate number right?
There are some great, interactive websites like Zillow that have popped up over the past few years. Type in your address and within seconds a slew of interesting information hits your computer screen. But are these values accurate?
Ironically, all of these values could be considered good, accurate numbers or at least clues to the value of your home. As these numbers can be drastically different, how do you know what is the most accurate number? First, you need to know what the value is for. If you want a value to determine a selling price for your home in today's changed market there is no quick and easy answer. Since, there is no special real estate Magic 8 Ball for determining the best starting price, working with a knowledgeable Realtor for expert advice is the next best option.

Many things can affect the selling price. A home located with easy access to 35 is more desirable to some than a home on the opposite side of Forest Lake. Existing homes near the Landings of Summerfields development are affected by the prices and discounts being offered on the new homes in that community. Whether your home is on public utilities or has a private well and septic system is a consideration. And this is only the tip of the iceberg.

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 a spring move 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! CLICK HERE to schedule a FREE market value assessment. 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 Teri Eckholm http://www.terieckholm.com/

Lino Lakes, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 4th Quarter 2007

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 community is conveniently located near the junction of the 35E and 35W split, just 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.

The fourth quarter numbers show area homes were selling just a bit faster than the previous quarter with an average of 141 days on the market for sold properties (DOM) compared with 159 days DOM in the third quarter. Looking at current inventory levels and the rate of sales for homes priced under $300,000, there is about 10-12 months of inventory. So with fewer homes selling and more coming on the market the absorbtion rate has gone up as in the third quarter it was closer to 6 months of inventory. Hopefully things will pick up again as the snow melts away.

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 4th quarter statistics it will now take about tow years to sell the current inventory of homes above the $400,000 price tag. Though better than communities to the north, like Ham Lake and Forest Lake, which have about 3 years of high-end home inventory, Lino Lakes high end absorption rate is starting to edge upward.

4th Quarter Lino Lakes residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 45 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 11 Sold Listings, 132 DOM


$300,000-$400,000 ~ 32 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 6 Sold Listings, 98 DOM

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 12 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 3 Sold Listings, 308 DOM

$500,000 and Up~ 13 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, 128 DOM

Lakeshore available in Lino Lakes

1 Active Listings

Lino Lakes lakeshore price range: $544,900

1 Home on Otter Lake

Acreage properties available in Lino Lakes

8 properties listed on 1-2 Acres priced between $174,900-$589,900.
4 properties listed on 2-3 Acres priced between $220,970-$375,000
1 property listed on 3-5 Acres priced at $280,800
1 property listed on 5-10 Acres priced at $329,900
1 property listed on 10-15 Acres priced at $408,900

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 10/1/07 through 12/31/07.

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

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

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

Now what can I say about this permanent lawn sculpture except the homeowner must have a great sense of humor and fun! Homer Simpson in all of his colorful glory was spotted by my teenagers in the front yard of a home between Centerville and Lino Lakes.

It is definitely one for the collection of Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions as when my son first saw it I was distracted by the exclamation, “Look! There is a giant Homer Simpson in that yard!” On our next trip down to the Twin Cities, taking the short cut from Columbus through Centerville, we slowed down and there was Homer in all his glory. This piece of chainsaw art is carved right out of what must have been a massive tree where it stood in the front yard of the home. Not the lawn decoration for every family but for lovers of the Simpson’s, it is "¡Ay, caramba!" or a great surprise!

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

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

Are Buyers and Sellers Psyched Out in the Minnesota Real Estate Market?

“Psychological factors are currently the biggest drag on the housing market, in addition to a disruption from tighter credit for subprime borrowers.”
— Lawrence Yun, senior economist for the National Association of Realtors
June 25, 2007

This statement issued three months ago by Yun is still true in Minnesota today. We have low interest rates and unemployment rates below the national average yet the housing market is flat. Areas of Anoka and Washington Counties including Blaine, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and Forest Lake have been over developed. There are several new construction homes and developments sitting empty awaiting new home buyers for, in some cases, years. In this current real estate market situation, the basic economics of supply and demand applies. When prices are too high, demand will remain low.

Home sellers in Minnesota that have gotten the message have been able to sell their homes. Existing home inventories are still high but down a bit from earlier in the year. If your home is currently on the market and not selling, there is a 2-Step approach to getting SOLD:

1. Look at what needs to be done to get your home in tip-top condition. If you have been receiving feedback from showings about ugly counters, worn carpeting, gaudy paint, old roof, etc., take action! Buyers move on to the homes in move-in condition.


2. Check your pricing against what is on the market and what has SOLD. Don’t look at solds from last year! Look in the past 3 months and what is in pending. If nothing has sold, then others in your market are pricing their homes too high as well. Work with your Realtor to make certain your home is the “best deal” in the neighborhood.

If this seems too difficult because you do not want to “give your home away”, take it off of the market. I have heard several sellers make the “I’m not going to give away my home” statement. My questions to them are “when did you buy?” and “what did you pay?” Most often the answer is years ago and for substantially less than what they are asking for the home. But these homeowners felt the over inflated prices of the last few years were “money in the bank”. This is an unfortunate misconception that keeps people from moving on to their next home.

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

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

Centerville, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 3rd Quarter 2007

Centerville is a community truly at the center of it all—or at least at the center of Lino Lakes, Minnesota. Located just off 35 E in the Twin Cities northeast metro, Centerville is a small community surrounded by its big sister community. Head any direction, north, south, east or west from Centerville and you will be in the community of Lino Lakes.

Real estate in Centerville, 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 198 days. Looking at current inventory levels and the rate of sales for homes priced under $300,000, there is about 6-7 months of inventory as it stands today.

While homes under $300,000 have a manageable inventory level, similar to other areas of the Twin Cities, high end homes are selling at a slower pace. Four wonderful lakeshore homes are currently available in Centervillle and one is on acreage With such a great selection, this is a great opportunity to buy that lake home you have always dreamed of owning.

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

Under $300,000 ~ 15 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 6 Sold Listings

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 5 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 5 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings

$500,000 and Up ~ 14 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings

Lakeshore available in Centerville4 Active Listings

Centerville lakeshore price range: $419,900-$649,900

3 Homes on Peltier Lake
1 Home on Centerville Lake

For additional information on any current Centerville real estate listings 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.

Featured Listing in Centerville, Minnesota: 1988 Robin Lane N
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

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/

Compost Alternatives for Fallen Leaves for Homeowners in Anoka County Minnesota

As the chlorophyll drains from leaves on the trees throughout Anoka County, revealing a vivid color palette of reds, oranges and yellows, I am reminded that fall is once again upon us. It amazes me that as youngsters are contemplating donning masks for Halloween, the leaves are draining the spring and summer green that masked their true colors. The beautiful fall colors combined with autumn winds will have residents of from Ham Lake to Columbus and Linwood to Lino Lakes grumbling about that wonderful fall chore of raking and disposing of yard waste.

If you’re on acreage and very lucky, the winds may kick up into a powerful force and blow your leaves into a neighboring field. A few years back our nearly three Ham Lake acres were blown clean of leaves after a night of howling winds. It was amazing! But facing north on our property, we realize that a windstorm the exception rather than rule.

So what to do with all of the leaves? In most Twin Cities areas, it is not legal to dispose of yard waste in your trash bin. Anoka County and Ham Lake are no exception. Composting is the answer. Whether you choose to have your own composting site on your property for next summer’s garden or you donate your leaves to the countywide site, composting is the best solution to recycling yard waste.

Compost and Tree Waste Sites in Anoka County

Acceptable materials include: leaves, grass clippings, weeds and soft-bodied green plant materials. No garbage allowed and must be debagged at the site.

Cost $4.00 per load up to 4 cubic yards for Anoka County residents.

Bunker Hills Compost Site
Located at 13285 Hanson Blvd. Coon Rapids
Open April through November weather permitting.
Monday-Friday 10AM to Sunset
Saturday 9AM to 5PM
Sunday 12PM to 5PM

Rice Lake Chain of Lakes Compost Site
Located at 7701 Main St, Lino Lakes
Tuesday 10AM to SunsetThursday 10:00 a.m. to Sunset
Saturday 9AM to 5PM
Sunday 12PM to 5PM
Home Compost Bins for Sale
Anoka County wants to assist you in having a green garden next year with your own compost bin. Limited quantities of Home Composter compost bins are available for sale for the low price of $31.18 (regular retail price is $69.00). For convenience, stop by and pick up at Holtz Garden Center in Ham Lake or Rock Gardens in Lino Lakes while supplies last. Click here additional information.

Make Your Own Compost Bin
Not an Anoka County resident or need a bigger compost bin? Make your own with these easy directions! Several easy to build designs are outlined is step-by-step easy to follow instructions. Make the size and style that best suits your property and needs.

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 Teri Eckholm

Goodbye Summer! As the MN State Fair Ends, Another School Year Begins in Forest Lake.

September always means one thing in the Forest Lake school district

: Back to School. Summer fun and events are over and a new school year begins. As soon as the final footlong hotdog is sold at the Minnesota State Fair and the final blue ribbon awarded, the school bells ring and new opportunities begin.

Memories of the fair have yet to fade. The corn dogs were great and the ride on the Space Needle was awesome. It is a once a year chance to see the entire Twin Cities from the top of the tower. Our chance sighting of a presidential hopeful before he officially threw his hat into the ring was exciting. Minnesota is a great place to stump even for a not yet official candidate like Fred Thompson. Catching a glimpse of a former Twin like Kent Hrbek at some place other than the Metrodome is just one reason to attend the fair. Learning about our great state from exhibits is another. It is amazing what has been fished out of Minnesota lakes and how it can be transformed into art.

Summer is officially over with the end of the state fair. Now a week into the school year district residents are anticipating Forest Lake Rangers football games, band concerts and the field trips. Approximately 7,500 students attend the 12 Forest Lake schools. The district encompasses one of the largest geographical areas in the state, 240 square miles and serves 12 communities. Towns and cities include Columbus, Linwood, Ham Lake, Hugo, Scandia, Lino Lakes, Marine, Stacy, May Township, Forest Lake and Wyoming. From preschool through adult continuing education

there is something for everyone in the Forest Lake area schools programs.

As summer ends we are no longer on top of the world but with our feet firmly on the ground. Students and their families become more deeply involved in school activities. It is time to visit a school, sign up for a class, attend a musical or cheer at a sporting event. It may be the end of summer in Minnesota but the fall is always the start of something special to residents in the Forest Lake School District.

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/