Twin Cities North Metro Real Estate ~ Anoka County Blog ~ Forest Lake, Lino Lakes & Ham Lake

Got Toxic Waste in Your Anoka County Basement? Safe and FREE Disposal Site! (LOCALISM FEATURED)

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 03:35:38 -0500

At almost every home closing in Minnesota, there is a short time where closing representatives leave the room to make copies and print checks. During this time keys and garage door openers are passed to the new homeowners and the seller usually passes on quirky information about the house. Often one tidbit is "I left all the extra paint on the basement/garage shelf so you can touch up a few things." Though buyers can be appreciative if the home was just repainted, others will consider this toxic waste.

Last week, my husband and I ventured into our own little toxic wasteland of cans stored under the basement steps to get a quart of clear coat sealer for our oak trim. We bought it four years ago when we built an addition and had a few boards to finish. We opened it and used it once. Now we were finishing the edge of some new windows in another room and the lid was sealed completely and permanently shut to the can! Time to head to Menard's for a fresh can, but what do we do with the old one?

We decided it was time for a trip to the Anoka County Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHW) in Blaine! It was surprising the amount of cans that had accumulated in the decade we have owned our Ham Lake home. Might as well clean it all out at one time.

The HHW is located at 3230 101st Ave NE in Blaine just west of the 35W and 95th Ave interchange and is open YEARROUND and is FREE to Anoka County Residents! CLICK HERE for Map and Directions.

Summer Hours (April through October)

Wednesday 2PM-8PM
Friday 9PM-3PM
Saturday 9PM-3PM

Winter Hours (November through March)

Wednesday 2PM-8PM
Saturday 9PM-3PM

The HHW accepts more than paint too. Drop off any household product that is labeled "Corrosive", "Flammable"," Poison", "Toxic" or "Warning". This includes old drain cleaner and mothballs from the hall closet and the insecticides and weed killer in the garage. Mercury thermometers, pool chemicals and used motor oil are also accepted. For a complete list of what is accepted at Anoka County the HHW Facility CLICK HERE.

We took our truck full of basement and garage household toxins into the facility last Friday morning around 11AM. It is a quick, efficient service. We had only one car ahead of us in line. You drive into the facility and the service professionals remove the unwanted items from your vehicle. It took less than 10 minutes, though from the lines and cones around the building, I would guess that on a busy Saturday, the wait can be longer.

What a great feeling to have all of those unwanted and unusable products out of the house!

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.

High Quality Service Is Well Worth the Price Paid When it’s Hot-Hot-HOT!

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:34:07 -0500

Looking for a discount with a Realtor or any other service professional? If you think that going for the lowest price is the best way to save money in a tough economy, I have a story for you. Good service has value...especially when it's hot...hot...HOT!

It's Hot and Humid in Minnesota today...Okay nothing like the heat in California or Arizona but heat near 90 with tropical dew points after our so far wimpy summer, the heat is noticeable. The heatwave is forecasted to stretch into the weekend!
Thankfully, I am comfortable in my lovely air conditioned Ham Lake home. We had suffered through a decade with a lemon of an a/c unit that had been installed by an inept builder. During that time found a wonderful HVAC service professional who kept our condenser running while on its last leg and our furnace in top notch condition.

So this spring when Connexus Energy offered rebates to homeowners installing Energy Star air conditioning into their homes, I immediately checked for John Harvey of Energy Mechanical in Anoka County on the list of preferred contractors. We had John price out a new system last summer as we knew that was going to be the last year we got by with duct tape and chicken wire holding the piece of junk together. On the Connexus website, there was the condenser but Energy Mechanical was not listed as a preferred service professional. Yikes that meant no $195 rebate!

"Hello John? It's Teri Eckholm. We've decided to finally put that dying A/C unit out of its misery and by the new one you quoted."

"Great!"

"But...I was at the Connexus Website and you are not listed."

"I know...I used to be one of their preferred service people under the old program but the new program required additional classes and paperwork and I just haven't had time."

"John...It is a $195 rebate. I need you to look at the quote and get back to me. Would you check into the Connexus thing again?"

"Sure. I'll call back after I look up your quote."

A few days go by...No call from John. I thought about calling someone else that I could get a rebate from but I could not pick up the phone. John was the guy who showed up in an hour after we had waited for a return call for two weeks with our last guy. He was also the guy who came over on a bitter cold Friday in January at 10:00 p.m. when our furnace went out and didn't charge an extra service fee. Rebate or no rebate...We knew John's service was worth much more than $200!

"Hey John...This is Teri. Did you have a chance to look up the bid?"

"No...I thought you wanted someone who was working with Connexus."

"Listen John, your service will weigh heavily into our decision. We have not forgotten that you came late at night on a cold night...That means a lot more to us than the rebate. Shoot us a bid so we can make a decision."

We could have elected to call another HVAC professional and get the $195 rebate from Connexus. Or we could have had our friend do the unwarranted installation for the cost of the condenser. Nope...we waited. John sent us a bid that day. It was very reasonable and actually a bit less than quoted last year. Our new energy efficient air conditioner was installed within two weeks...Well before the heat and humidity of a Minnesota summer. We can also rest assured that Energy Mechanical will be there if there is a problem.

Some friends also had a brand new air conditioning condenser installed in their home the same week we did. They were gone for the Fourth of July and came home to a SAUNA...The a/c had failed and it was over 90 degrees in the house. Last night, I found out they are continuing to struggle with their new a/c unit and today it is miserably hot and humid. Their serviceman said, "Gee, I installed one just like it for the guy down the street a few years back and he never had any problems." I don't know what they paid or if a rebate was involved but good service is well worth the price.

As a Realtor, I am asked from time to time if I will discount my fees. I explain my program and why it cannot do my best work with a discounted rate...much in the same way that John explained his situation to me. My clients understand. They choose to work with me and refer me to their friends because of the service I provide...just like I appreciate John's exceptional service. Sometimes it is not about the money...It is about the quality of service...Especially when it is Hot. Hot. HOT outside...Or Cold. Cold. COLD for that matter.

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.

5 GREAT Reasons Minnesota Townhomes Make an Easy Transition from Apartment Life!

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:14:54 -0500

The low interest rates and recent reports have many apartment dwellers considering making a first home purchase. House prices are making buying a very attractive option for many who want the investment potential and tax benefits that being a responsible homeowner can provide. But some on the fence might not like the idea of cutting the grass every summer weekend or shoveling a driveway before going to work on a Minnesota winter day. These fence dwellers should consider a townhome and dive into the market to receive the benefits of homeownership but retain some of the worry free aspects of apartment life!

Here are five reasons that a townhouse might be the perfect first home:

No Yardwork! In most cases the association is responsible for all grass cutting, trash and snow removal.
No Exterior Maintenance! Painting the siding and putting on a new roof are decisions made by the homeowners association. Exterior hazard insurance is covered by a policy for the entire association and paid for with monthly or annual association fees.
Community Amenities. Want an inground pool? Like nature trails, walking paths and lakeshore living? Need a fitness center or large room to entertain in? Love the idea of living on a golf course? Amenities like these can be found in many northern Twin Cities townhome developments.
Close Neighbors Provide Better Security! Complaints of that nosy neighbor disappear when they notice that something unusual is going on next door and thwart a robbery in progress. People in townhomes live in close proximity to one and other, like those in apartments. This closeness can provide comfort to those who like the idea of neighbors looking out for one another.
More Space for the Money. In the price verses square footage scenario, townhomes win hands down for getting more space for the dollar. With less dollars being tied to the land, more of your money goes into buying actual living space. Townhomes are designed with space efficiency in mind, giving you more living area at a lower cost.

Need another reason? Townhomes are amazingly affordable throughout Anoka, Chisago and Washington Counties! The Minnesota townhome market developed too quickly in early the early 2000's creating more supply than demand. Add to it the overall slow down in real estate, builders started making deals about two years ago from Blaine to Forest Lake and Wyoming to Coon Rapids to keep new developments selling. With builders making deals, traditional sellers have dropped their prices too. Townhomes are selling at unbelievable prices. Read More About Townhome Deals HERE!

Ready to get off the fence and buy a Minnesota townhome and need help from a professional Realtor? Give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Blaine and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions--Homeowner Version: Move Over Tiger! Yogi’s Ready for the Links in Forest Lake!

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 08:11:50 -0500

As a Realtor I get the opportunity to canvas the countryside looking at homes and properties throughout the north metro. Time and again I stumble upon unique treasures. This time, I discovered an artful roadside distraction because of a detour just over two months ago. The tornado devastation in Hugo rerouted me from many of my regular real estate routes to and through Anoka and Washington Counties. On one such detour, I drove past this guy who acts as part of a welcoming committee in a Forest Lake home. Now this is a bear that is ready for one of Minnesota's favorite summer activities...GOLF! I knew that I would have to take this detour again with camera at hand soon!

So this past week on my way to show homes to out-of-town buyers in White Bear Lake and Stillwater, I made a scheduled detour to get the shot. This guy stands on one side of the driveway while his friend (BooBoo maybe?) who is not decked out in golf attire, stands stately on the other. There was some thought put into the clothing as the beautiful two story home of the owner has the same whimsical color scheme: butter yellow siding with forest green trim.

In my real estate travels, I tend to take the same roads so if it wasn't for the tornado detour, I would never have traveled past this pair of distracting bears. But this gets me thinking...Maybe I should take alternative routes more often as you never know what uniquely Minnesotan artful distraction could be around the next bend in a Minnesota roadway.

Other Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions:

Don't be distracted when making YOUR important real estate decisions! 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.

Is NOW the time to BUY a Townhome In Minnesota? You Betcha!

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 09:13:08 -0500

The media reports can be confusing and contradictory about the changed real estate market. One day a report comes out showing declining values on Twin Cities houses and a day or two later, reporters are indicating it is the time to jump off the fence and buy that first home. Meanwhile, the average Joe (or Josephine) sits in the apartment paying the landlord's mortgage wondering if there will ever be a good time to buy a house! Just like buying any investment, there is no sure thing and no one answer. But from the prices on townhomes I am seeing as a Realtor working in the north and east metro, townhomes might be one segment of the market where someone on the fence will want to jump into the fray!

Townhomes are Affordable-Amazing DEALS!

Throughout Anoka, Chisago, and Washington counties in the late 1990's there was a shortage of affordable alternative homes for the first time homebuyer. Transitioning out of an apartment where the landlord took care of maintenance also weighted heavily on those considering home ownership for the first time. Downsizers who also wanted a maintenance free lifestyle in their old neighborhoods increase the demand. There was a need and in the early 2000's townhome development exploded from Hugo to North Branch and Forest Lake to Coon Rapids.

Unfortunately, the explosion was a little too big compared with the pace of buyers entering into the market. This overabundance of newly constructed townhomes has lead to high inventory levels in this segment of the real estate market. Developers recognizing the slowdown indicators and with dozens of projects in the works, started cutting prices and offering deals on financing as far back as 2006.

Now fast forward to today. Many townhome owners have life changes since they bought in the early 2000's. Townhome and condo owners throughout the Twin Cities are forced to sell their well maintained and much loved properties in this changed market in order to accept that perfect new job out of state or have enough room for a second child. These homeowners face competition from the specials offered on new construction units by developers and compete with the discounted prices of distressed properties like foreclosures. Time after time, I witness homeowners choosing to sell at tens of thousands less than their county assessed value or even the price they paid a few years ago to attract today's buyer!

This is a GREAT opportunity for today's townhome and condo buyer! Wonderfully maintained townhomes are available throughout the north metro at discounted prices!

Here are two AWESOME Examples:

Mint! 2BR/2BA Rambler Townhome in Coon Rapids with Basement and private 2 Car garage attractively priced at only $181,900 More Info? CLICK HERE

Model Perfect! 2004 Built 4BR/4BA/2 Car with Master Suite & ALL the Upgrades and Extras in Circle Pines. Unbeliveably priced at just $224,900! Over 2200+ Square feet finished. More Info? CLICK HERE

Wyoming, MN Real Estate Market Statistics Mid Year 2008

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:24:10 -0500

The City of Wyoming, Minnesota on the northeastern edge of the Twin Cities metropolitan area is a hidden gem! According to the city's website the town was named after the first settlers who in 1855 relocated from the Wyoming Valley in Pennsylvania. Wyoming boasts its own police and fire departments, city utilities, library, hospital, elementary school and several community parks. Neighborhood shopping is great with a cute coffee shop, drug store and grocery store in the heart of the town.

Activities are abundant in Wyoming. Not only is the center of the community located smack dab on the walking/biking/snowmobile trail that runs along Hwy 61, there is the new Stars and Strikes bowling, laser tag, restaurant and meeting facility too. Several great fishing lakes are nearby including, Forest Lake, Coon Lake and Comfort Lake. Hunting is a favorite activity of many Wyoming residents as areas of Carlos Avery State Wildlife Management area are within its border. Wyoming Elementary is an integral part of the Forest Lake District 831 school district which provides community sports and activities for individuals of all ages.

Commuting into St. Paul or Minneapolis is a breeze from Wyoming as most residences are a within 3-5 minute drive to I35. The city is just 3 miles north of Forest Lake which is home to the NEW Park and Ride lot for an express commute to downtown Minneapolis.

Real estate in Wyoming, MN in southern Chisago County is still selling but it is selling slower than other areas in the metro. The cummulative Days on Market (DOM) Statistic for single family homes in Wyoming is 214 days or approximately 7 months. That is roughly 2 months longer than areas just to the south and west in Forest Lake, Ham Lake and Lino Lakes.

Inventory levels seem to be in line with surrounding communities for price points under $300,000 with about 16 months of inventory. But at higher price points, the inventory level is quite high which translates to approximately 4 years of inventory for Wyoming homes over $300,000, if sales continue at this slower pace.

The amazing deals on the homes in the Wyoming area reflect the changed market. The prices on many existing homes for sale in the Wyoming community have been cut drastically to entice buyers to drive just a little further north.

Mid Year 2008 Wyoming residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000 ~ 53 Active Listings, 5 Pending Listings, 19 Sold Listings, 201 DOM

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 16 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings, 256 DOM

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 4 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listing, N/A DOM

$500,000 and Up ~ 4 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings 417 DOM

**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1 /1/08 through 6/30/08.

Featured Home in Wyoming MN (Pictured Above):

25797 Freeport Avenue, Wyoming, MN 55092

Articles on Wyoming, Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

Forest Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics Mid Year 2008

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:17:58 -0500

Forest Lake, Minnesota is a special community in the northeast metro Twin Cities area. Many people from the city remember Forest Lake fondly from decades ago as a summer vacation spot or place to go for a drive in the country. Today, the lakeside cabins have been replaced with year round residences and the rural nature is all but a thing of the past in this thriving St. Paul suburb. Though housing growth has slowed down drastically in the past year or two in many northern suburbs due to ever increasing gas prices, Forest Lake is holding it's own.

Real estate in Forest Lake, MN in north Washington County and east Anoka County continues to sell but slowly. The Days on Market (DOM) Statistic is currently running at about 211 days for all homes sold. When the first quarter numbers showed area homes had stayed on the market an average of 287days, this is welcome news.

If we look at sold homes in the under $300,000 category the absorption rate has come back an 11 month level from earlier this year where it was nearly 24 months. But high end homes continue to struggle for sales. Only five homes sold in the last 6 months in the $400,000 plus price category. Currently, the Forest Lake community sits with nearly 5 years of inventory if sales continue at this slow pace on high priced homes. Great homes at amazing prices are out there on lakeshore and acreage properties. With this much inventory, sellers will need to be flexible on pricing. It might be the perfect time to negotiate a GREAT deal on a lakeshore home!

Lakeshore opportunities are abundant in the Forest Lake area! There are more listings than ever before at incredible prices too! The is inventory awesome...47 lakeshore homes currently active. 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 shoreline!

Mid Year 2008 Forest Lake real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 99 Active Listings, 10 Pending Listings, 47 Sold Listings, 194 DOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 2 Active, 0 Pending, 3 Sold)

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 39 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 14 Sold Listings, 268 DOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 8 Active, 0 Pending, 8 Sold)

$400,000-$500,000 ~ 13 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 4 Sold Listing, 167 DOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 6 Active, 0 Pending, 2 Sold)

$500,000 and Up~ 37 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 3 Sold Listings 385 DOM (Lakeshore Subgroup ~ 31 Active, 1 Pending, 3 Sold)

Lakeshore available in the Forest Lake area:
47 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 16 Sold Listings

Forest Lake lakeshore price range: $269,900-$2,300,000

38 Homes on Forest Lake
7 Homes on Clear Lake
1 Home on Shields Lake
1 Home on Heims Lake

**All Statistical information based on information from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE of MINNESOTA, INC. for the period of 1 /1/08 through 6/30/08.

Articles on Forest Lake, Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

Ham Lake, MN Real Estate Market Statistics Mid Year 2008

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:52:36 -0500

Even though existing single family home sales in Ham Lake, Minnesota remained sluggish during the first half of 2008 the numbers show that homes are still selling. The Days on Market (DOM) statistic has stayed pretty consistent with 217 days as compared to 214 in the first quarter and 220 in the fourth quarter of 2007. However, homes in the higher price categories remain stalled.

For the first six months of 2008, only one home is in pending and one sold in the over $500,000 price category. While that three days on the market for the high price point looks like a bright beacon, it is not reflective of the actual market. Since DOM is based on sold properties and only one property sold, the number is an anomaly. The very low DOM for this price point can be attributed to one very unique home on Majestic Oaks Golf Course that sold as soon as it listed. This shows that unique properties priced correctly are selling but is not indicitive of the market when looking at whole picture including the market time of active homes.

Current active homes priced over half a million have an average CDOM of 257 as of 7/1/08. One property has been on the market over 600 days! With 67 listings currently on the market priced at $400,000 or more, Ham Lake continues to be over saturated with high end homes.

Lower priced homes under $300,000 are showing some good activity. If homes continue to sell at this current rate, we are looking at just over a year's worth of inventory in the lower priced categories. In the $300,000-400,000 price range things are moving a bit slower with about 17 months of inventory but not a bad pace considering the changed market place.

An excellent opportunity remains for move up buyers. If you have a starter home in good condition and well priced, it should sell in a decent time frame. Move up buyers with sold homes have quite a selection of properties to choose from in the higher price categories. After 300+ days on the market, many homeowners and builders are ready to negotiate with a strong, non-contingent buyer!

Mid-Year Ham Lake residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $300,000~ 54 Active Listings, 5 Pending Listings, 23 Sold Listings, DOM 184 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 1 Active, 0 Pending, 0 Sold)

$300,000-400,000~ 27 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 10 Sold Listings, DOM 229 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 4 Active, 0 Pending, 3 Sold)

$400,000-500,000~ 30 Active Listings, 4 Pending Listings, 10 Sold Listings, DOM 287 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 3 Active, 1 Pending, 2 Sold)

$500,000 and Up~ 37 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, DOM 3 (New Construction Subgroup ~ 10 Active, 1 Pending, 0 Sold)

Lakeshore available in the City of Ham Lake:

6 Active Listings on Ham Lake lakeshore with prices ranging from: $259,900-$1,350,000

1 Home on Coon Lake
1 Home on Ham Lake
1 Home on Lake Amelia
1 Home on Lake Emily
1 Home on Lake Netta
1 Home on Little Coon Lake

**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.

Photo Featured Listing in Ham Lake, Minnesota: 15139 E Vermillion Circle NE, 55304

Other Anoka and Chisago County Listings:
601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
401 Village Parkway, Circle Pines, MN 55014
25797 Freeport Avenue, Wyoming, MN 55092

Articles on Ham Lake, Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

Circle Pines & Lexington, MN Real Estate Market Sales Statistics for Mid-2008

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:55:07 -0500

Circle Pines is a small city, approximately 2 square miles, in Anoka County. The neighboring community, Lexington is even smaller encompassing less than one square mile of land. Both little communities are often overlooked since they are sandwiched between Blaine, Lino Lakes just to the north of Shoreview.

Circle Pines might be small but is thriving and has a unique history. According to Circle Pines and Lexington History, it was one of the first cooperative communities started in 1946 in an area between the townships of Blaine and Centerville in Southern Anoka County. According to the Circle Pines website, the symbol of the cooperative was a pine tree with a circle around it; thus the name Circle Pines. Though the unique development idea only lasted 3 years due to financial and leadership problems, the name remained. One benefit of its cooperative past is that Circle Pines is the only suburban city that operates its own natural-gas distribution company which serves part of Lino Lakes. The community is a part of the Centennial School District is home to Golden Lake and acres of wetlands.

Real estate in the communities of Circle Pines and Lexington is affordable and selling-though admittedly at a slower pace than most sellers would like. First half of 2008 numbers show area homes are staying on the market an average of 160 days. When broken down to single family homes versus townhomes/ condos, the single family homes have a 158 average CDOM while townhomes/condos are selling a bit more slowly with a 181 CDOM. Prices reductions on townhomes are drastic in this area due to the abundance of new construction in the neighboring community of Blaine. Amazing deals can be had for the astute first time condo home buyer.

The cumulative days on market numbers for Circle Pines are comparable favorably with other areas of the north metro like Blaine, Forest Lake, Lino Lakes and Ham Lake where homes had 1st quarter cumulative days-on-market rates (CDOM) ranging from 150 to over 200 days. (Links to statistical reports for these communities are listed below.)

Inventory levels of single family homes under $200,000 in Circle Pines are reasonable as most homes fit into that under $300K price catagory. Lower days on the market can be partially attributed to fewer high priced homes and the central location to the downtown areas. New construction townhomes in Lexington that have been on the market since 2005 also skew the DOM results.

2008 Mid Year Sales Statistics for Circle Pines residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $200,000~ 15 Active Listings, 6 Pending Listings, 11 Sold Listings, CDOM 151

$200,000-$300,000 ~ 15 Active Listings, 4 Pending Listings, 5 Sold Listings, CDOM 140

$300,000-$400,000 ~ 0 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 2 Sold Listings, CDOM 265

$400,000-$500,000~ 4 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings

$500,000 and Up ~ 1 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 0 Sold Listings

2008 Mid Year Sales Statistics for Circle Pines residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:

Under $200,000~ 24 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 13 Sold Listings, CDOM 181

$200,000-$300,000 ~ 11 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 6/30/08.

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

Photo Featured Listing in Circle Pines Listing :
401 Village Parkway, Circle Pines, MN 55014

Other Anoka County Listings:
601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
15139 E Vermillion Circle NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304

Articles on Lakeshore and Minnesota that might be of interest:

Easy way to Clean Up and Simplify YOUR Move!

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:27:19 -0500

I think everyone hates those automated electronic messages that are left on voicemail from time to time. I often hit delete before the first sentence of the annoying mechanical voiced tape is complete. However I actually listened to one that I received the other day. It was from the Salvation Army offering to send a truck out to pick up donations.

In Anoka County, there are many charities offering pick up service for gently used clothing, furniture and household items. Many of these groups like the Vietnam Veterans, Disabled American Veterans, Lupus Foundation and Courage Center come on a designated route on a rotating basis. The organization will mail or call to notify homeowners when a truck in the area and ask if they have any items that they would like to donate.

The Salvation Army however is has a new tactic for getting donations of clothing and furniture. They left this message asking me to call 1-800-SA-TRUCK to arrange a pick up! Now that is an easy number to remember.

As a Realtor, I am often asked by sellers where to donate furniture and other household items. The Salvation Army is not only a great organization to consider, they have made it simple to remember how to schedule that pick up!

So after staging your home or if you have leftover items from your moving sale, give 1-800-SA-TRUCK a call. Another way to simplify your move!

Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions--Homeowner Version: Steel Dragon in Blaine

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:11:02 -0500

A decade ago when we made our move to Anoka County, unique sites along the road often surprised us. There were the little buildings resembling outhouses near the end of every driveway. These of course are shelters for children waiting for the school bus. There were hawks on roadside power lines looking down to the road or a sod field looking for its next meal to run by. And then there would be something amazing to really stop you in your tracks...Something that looks like a steel dragon!

When we first saw this Artful Distraction in Blaine, it was nose to nose with its mirror image. The pair of shining steel sculptures glistened as they blocked the driveway and guarded the entry to the property. I have to admit, I have never noticed the actual home they protect but when looking at these entwined serpents, I imagined a castle.

In my real estate travels, I get to past these metallic serpents on a regular basis. Lately the pair has been apart, leaving access wide open to the property. From the looks of things, overgrown grass and unattended trash receptacles, I imagine there is a new owner in the home who doesn't need the added security of a pair of silver steel dragons. But even apart, the spectacle doesn't go without notice and remains a favorite and very unique distraction along a Minnesota roadway.

Other Uniquely Minnesota Artful Distractions:

Don't be distracted when making YOUR important real estate decisions! 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.

25797 Freeport Avenue, Wyoming, MN 55092

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:45:38 -0500

Welcome to 25797 Freeport Avenue, Wyoming!

Perfect 3BR/2BA Family Home in desirable Thurnbeck Ponds!

Attractively priced at $219,900!

*This 2000 built home is a beauty inside and out!

*Maintenence free vinyl exterior is enhanced with brick and features a cute covered entryway landscaped with an assortment of ornamental trees and shrubs.

*From the moment you step into the foyer, you will feel at home.

*In the main level living area note the bright airy feel of the open floor plan with vaulted ceiling in living, dining and kitchen area.

*Cute chair rail accent adds uniqueness and country-flair to the home.

*Beautiful new plush carpeting in Living, Dining and Main floor bedrooms.

*Vaulted kitchen ceiling and openness to living/dining area allows easy family interaction.

*Gorgeous golden oak cabinetry, breakfast bar island and included appliances make this the perfect kitchen.

*Informal dining area features a walkout where new buyers can build a deck of their own design!

*Lower level family room was just completed in 2007. With 18 X 22 dimensions, it features plenty of space to meet the needs of all family members.

*Gas fireplace with beautiful oak mantel is a focal point of the room!

*The unique finishing with oak paneled walls and huge window on either side of the family room add style to the home!

*Gardeners delight with several beautiful rose bushes to enhance the front and back yards of the home.

*Enjoy the natural beauty of the private pond enhanced by the waterfall garden and fire pit near the shore--Perfect for relaxing summer evenings and winter skating parties.

*Location is ideal-Just over a mile to 35E and 3 miles north of Forest Lake. Commuting to Minneapolis is a breeze with the new Forest Lake Park N Ride!

Need additional information on this home?

Visit my Website at www.terieckholm.com and Click on FEATURED HOMES to see more interior and exterior photos!

Or Call me, Teri Eckholm/Keller Williams Premier Realty at 651-336-7073.

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. Acreage homes are my specialty! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.

401 Village Parkway, Circle Pines, MN 55014

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 09:21:49 -0500

Welcome to 401 Village Parkway, Circle Pines!

Meticulously maintained 4BR/4BA one owner townhome!

Amazingly priced at $224,900!

*Beautifully maintained 2003 built home--Shows like a model!

*Stylish red brick exterior end unit with private driveway and deck!

*Location is ideal for entertaining with 8 guest parking spaces nearby and additional on street parking.

*Wonderful oak railing allows you to see into the vaulted living area from the moment you step into the front door. Home features 6 panel oak doors throughout!

*Soaring 9ft ceilings in open kitchen, dining, living room and family room area gives a feeling of space to the home.

*Plush neutral carpeting is enhanced in the expansive living room/dining room area. Note the beautiful double rail window treatment hardware from Pottery Barn.

*Almost new kitchen features an eat-in breakfast bar island. Beautifully maintained everything from the custom oak cabinets to the appliances looks almost brand-new!

*Versatile floor plan allows kitchen to flow into the family room all accented beautifully with gleaming hardwood flooring. This area could also be used for informal or formal dining.

*Master suite has huge windows, soaring vaults, walk-in closet, private bath, ceiling fan & recessed lighting and a sitting area.

*Awesome master bath features ceramic flooring, separate tub and shower, and a jetted garden tub.

*Builder professionally finished lower level with 4th bedroom, ¾ bath, closet and laundry.

*The lower level bedroom is huge! It is currently being used as an office but with all of the space it a wonderful playroom or 2^nd family room.

*Although the development does allow two pets...either cats or dogs with restrictions...the current owner was allergic so no pets or smoking have been in the home.

*Enjoy summer! Shared private heated outdoor pool is available for association residents.

*A reasonable HOA fee at $169/monthly includes exterior maintenance and insurance.

*Conveniently located within minutes of 35W for a quick commute and near the Blaine/95^th AVE Park and Ride for a carefree ride into downtown Minneapolis.

Need additional information on this home? CLICK HERE

Contact Teri Eckholm/Keller Williams Premier Realty at 651-336-7073.

Closer Look at Twin Cities Foreclosure/Short Sale Market—Homeowners Retain More Equity

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:02:15 -0500

Most media reports have been exclaiming the double digit drop in housing values in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area since the beginning of 2008. The RMLS numbers showed a drastic decline in the values of homes from Anoka to Ramsey to Washington Counties. It seemed that no area in the 13 county Twin Cities metro area was completely immune to the pressure the reported up to 2% foreclosure rate was putting on the housing market.

The numbers are staggering when looked at as a whole...but what if the foreclosures and short sales could be filtered out? Reality is that in most areas few than 2% of properties are in foreclosure in the metro market. But many more homeowners are sitting at home nervously watching the news reports touting the ‘gloom and doom' and believe the equity is draining from their homes like a flood prone levee. Is this picture accurate?

Intuitively, I knew the answer was no. Or at the very least it was incomplete. Homes being sold in the market by a traditional seller, without a bank or corporate entity involved, are appearing to hold their value somewhat better than other homes. But I had no way to back up what I believed I was seeing until now.

A local Minneapolis Realtor, Aaron Dickinson and Jeff Allen, the research manager of the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors (MMAR) teamed up to find the answer. They created a report entitled Foreclosures and Short Sales in the Twin Cities Housing Market. This report shows that significantly more bank-owned and mediated homes are currently listed than two years ago...nearly 10 times more! The report also goes on to show that while the median sales price for the foreclosed homes are down almost 16%, homes sold by traditional sellers is only down about 3.5% from 2006 to 2008. CLICK HERE to Read the full report.

This is awesome news for Twin Cities homeowners frightened that their largest single investment is draining in value daily as more foreclosures hit the market. Rest assured that while this changed housing market IS affecting the property values during this time of correction, we are not in a freefall throughout the metro area.

Other Real Estate Related Articles that might be of interest:

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional Realtor to better understand this changed real estate market, 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.

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Coon Rapids, MN Real Estate Market Statistics May 2008

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:37:31 -0500

In spite of the real estate slow down Coon Rapids continues to evolve as it has for over 150 years. It has changed from the community's humble beginnings of a dirt road farm community to the 9th largest city and 5th largest suburb in the state of Minnesota. The affects of the real estate market change on Coon Rapids is tempered by its convenient location to downtown Minneapolis and its easy access to Interstate 35, Hwy 65 and Hwy 47/10 for a commute to a lakeside cabin. Coon Rapids is a community with something for everyone: encompassing 23 square miles it boasts several neighborhood and regional parks, indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks, softball and baseball fields, tennis courts, hiking and biking trails, swimming pools, a golf course, and two major regional shopping developments.

Like its neighbors Blaine and Andover, the residential real estate construction boom in Coon Rapids during the past decade has slowed but not stopped making new and existing home purchase opportunities very affordable. Conveniently between Anoka and Blaine, it is connected by Highway 10 just north of the Twin Cities, Coon Rapids is an attractive location for both business and residential development. The entire community of Coon Rapids is served by one school district; Anoka Hennepin District #11.

Real estate in Coon Rapids, MN in Anoka County is affordable and selling-though admittedly at a slower pace than most sellers would like. In the first five months of 2008 numbers show single family homes are staying on the market an average of 148 cumulative days. This is very similar to the neighboring community of Blaine with an average of 150 CDOM for the first quarter.

But when broken down to single family homes versus townhomes/ condos, the single family homes have a 132 average CDOM while townhomes/condos are selling nearly a month slower with a 168 CDOM. In Blaine, condos/townhomes were selling faster than their higher priced single family homes. This could be do to builder incentives on the abundance of new construction properties in Blaine and the many executive homes that are asking well over $500,000. There are extremely high priced homes in Coon Rapids and few new construction townhomes.

Like Blaine, the cumulative days on market numbers for Coon Rapids 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 $200,000 in Coon Rapids have remain quite manageable with approximately 6-7 months of inventory. Town homes and condos are going quite a bit slower; with nearly 18 months of inventory. As Coon Rapids' real estate is for the most part moderately priced, it should adjust to the changed market relatively quickly but it's significant condo/townhome market will take time to recover as it will have to compete with new townhome developments in the neighboring community of Blaine.

Jan-May 2008 Coon Rapids residential real estate statistics for single family homes:

Under $200,000~ 137Active Listings, 26 Pending Listings, 102 Sold Listings, CDOM 124

$200,000-$300,000~ 130 Active Listings, 10 Pending Listings, 43 Sold Listings, CDOM 134

$300,000-$400,000~ 30 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 11 Sold Listings, CDOM 185

$400,000 and up~ 13 Active Listings, 2 Pending Listings, 1 Sold Listings, CDOM 233

Jan-May 2008 Coon Rapids residential real estate statistics for townhomes and condos:

Under $200,000~ 228 Active Listings, 12 Pending Listings, 66 Sold Listings, CDOM 166

$200,000-$300,000~ 36 Active Listings, 1 Pending Listings, 48 Sold Listings, CDOM 156

$300,000-$400,000~ 9 Active Listings, 0 Pending Listings, 5 Sold Listings, CDOM 313

$400,000 and up~ 0 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 5/31/08.

Featured Townhome Listing in Anoka County (pictured above)

601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN

For additional information on this home or any current Coon Rapids real estate listing contact Teri Eckholm directly at 651-336-7073.

Other Real Estate Articles that might be of interest:

· Does "Minnesota Nice" Affect the Real Estate Market? "Yah, You Betcha!"
· Understanding Risk of Loss-How Severe Weather Affects Real Estate
· First Time Home Buyer in Anoka County, MN? Low Interest Loans Available!
· 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
· Blaine, MN Real Estate Market Statistics 1st Quarter 2008

If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional Realtor, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. 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.

*Price REDUCED**601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 23:46:49 -0500

Welcome to 601 86^th Lane NW, Coon Rapids!

Meticulously maintained one owner townhome!

Price reduced to $178,900!

*One level living...Master Bedroom, Full Bath and Laundry on Main Level!

*Beautiful maintained home shows like a model!

*Almost new kitchen features an eat-in breakfast bar.

*Beautifully maintained! Everything from the custom oak cabinets to the appliances looks brand-new!

*Huge foyer allows guests and family to enter home without the crowded feeling. Huge entry closet is convenient from garage or front entry.

*Soaring vaulted ceiling in open kitchen, dining, living room area gives a feeling of space to the home.

*Beautiful brick enhances the gas fireplace becoming a focal point of the living room.

*Private deck off living area for summer fun and BBQ's

*Plenty of room for fun or entertainment in the lower level family room. Note the neutral colors and Berber carpeting.

*In the lower level there is another huge bedroom...almost as big as the master bedroom. It also features a walk through to a full bath.

*Development allows two pets...either cats or dogs.

*A reasonable HOA fee at $125 per month.

*Conveniently located just west of Northtown Shopping Center...Close to shopping, schools and EVERYTHING!

Need additional information on this home? CLICK HERE

Contact Teri Eckholm/Keller Williams Premier Realty at 651-336-7073.

Buying a Home on Minnesota Lakeshore—Is the Water Really Safe?

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 10:13:36 -0500

Owning a lakeshore home is a dream of many Minnesota residents. Living in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, one would be hard pressed not to drive by a lake, pond or river on a daily basis no matter if you are in Anoka, Ramsey, Chisago, Washington, Hennepin or any other county in our great state. Almost every day on the news there is something happening on or in one of our wonderfully wet natural resources. Some of the news is not always so great: Eurasian milfoil, mercury in the fish and polluted waters are a concern. Even those who live in the city are being asked to prevent grass clippings from going into the street and sewer systems as the chemicals that make our lawns so beautifully green, go through the storm drains and into our lakes. So how do you know if the sparkling pristine blue water of that Minnesota lakehome you want to buy is as clean as it looks?

As a Realtor working in the north and east Twin Cities metro, I do get asked questions regarding the quality of our lakes. After buyers are dazzled by the view of a lakeshore sunset, they want to know about water quality before they sign a purchase agreement. Lakeshore owners want to be able to fish, boat and swim in the water. So questions arise.

*Is the lake polluted?

*Are the fish safe to eat?

*Is there milfoil present?

*Should we swim in the water?

Finding these answers is simple. I direct my lakehome buyers to http://www.checkmylake.org/, a wonderful website devoted to MN lakeshore and recreation published by Conservation Minnesota. The site gives information great information on all of Minnesota's lakes that have been tested for water quality.

A potential lakeshore buyer can find out whether the lake water is safe to swim in and whether the fish are safe to eat on a case by case basis. The lake search is very simple to use. Just put in the name and or county of the lake you are interested in and hit GO. I found that when I was looking for a big lake that is located in more than one county, like White Bear Lake, entering the lake name is best because it will only be listed in one county. (In the case of White Bear Lake, it listed as Washington County not Ramsey.)

Pollution status is not the only feature of checkmylake.org. The website is updated daily with water facts, lake news and beach reports. You can also sign a petition to protect our lakes, volunteer to monitor lake quality, or submit a story about your favorite lake.

Now if you are looking for a great place to fish in the north metro, check out these links!

Fishing Links for Lakes in Anoka County:

Coon Lake - Coon Lake County Park
Mississippi River - Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Manomin County Park, Islands of Peace / Riverfront Regional Park
Cenaiko Lake - Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park
East Twin Lake - East Twin Lakes County Park
Ham Lake - Ham Lake County Park
Lake George - Lake George Regional Park
Rice Creek - Locke County Park, Manomin County Park, Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve
Martin Lake, Island Lake, Linwood Lake - Martin-Island-Linwood Lakes Regional Park
Peltier Lake, George Watch Lake, Marshan Lake, Rice Lake, Baldwin Lake, Centerville Lake - Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve
Rum River - Rum River Central Regional Park, Rum River North County Park, Rum River South County Park

Fishing Piers in Ramsey County:

Ready to buy a Minnesota Lakehome 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.

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Understanding Risk of Loss—How Severe Weather Affects Real Estate

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 09:48:19 -0500

Spring storms and a busier real estate market are making life very interesting for MN buyers, sellers and Realtors! Just over a week ago, 400-500 homes sustained damage as a severe storm that spawned two tornados and devastated the Twin Cities north metro. Yesterday another storm blew through Minnesota. This time homes in the south and west metro were affected by hail and damaging straight-line winds. 2008 is setting up to be a very active storm season in the Land of 10,000 Lakes as more severe weather is already in the forecast for later this week. Will this affect real estate transactions? You betcha!

Even in this changed, buyer-driven market, spring is a busy time for Minnesota real estate. Current statistics showed the deadlock between buyers and sellers loosened earlier this year with many homes going into pending sale status in April.

My curiosity as a Realtor got the best of me. I looked at the devastated Hugo neighborhood with a real estate eye. So many homes damaged and destroyed-Roofs gone. Windows shattered. Vinyl siding looking like Swiss cheese. Trees toppled onto homes. It is an entirely different neighborhood than it was a couple of weeks ago. In this hard hit neighborhood alone, there were 6 active homes on the market and 4 homes in pending at the time of the storm. With all of the damage and in some cases, total devastation, no doubt the risk of loss clause will come into play in some, if not all, of these real estate transactions.

What is the "Risk of Loss" clause? What does it mean to the average home buyer and seller?

Risk of Loss is a "boiler plate" clause on page four of the Minnesota purchase agreement. Line 147 clearly states that the risk of loss due to any reason whether an act of God or the acts of vandals will be the responsibility of the seller from the time the purchase agreement is signed until the date of closing.

I wrote a post last August, Contract Cancelled-Understanding Risk of Loss, that explains the risk of loss clause in detail and what it means to anyone with a signed purchase agreement on a home that sustains damage. After the past few stormy weekends, this topic deserves to be revisited as a reminder to all home Minnesota buyers and sellers as we persevere through this turbulent summer.

For additional information on Risk of Loss read:

Contract Cancelled-Understanding Risk of Loss

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.

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East Bethel to Discuss Hwy 65/Viking at Council Meeting Wednesday June 4

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 07:56:45 -0500

Attention East Bethel, Ham Lake and Wyoming residents interested in the Hwy 65/Cty 22 intersection development!

The Community of East Bethel adopted the comprehensive plan in August 2007 that was submitted to the Met Council. Included in the plan is a city sewer and water proposal centered on the development of a town center at Hwy 65 and Viking Blvd. (County 22).

Now the real work is beginning! The proposed development of this intersection is on the agenda at this week's city council meeting-June 4 at East Bethel City Hall, 7:30 PM. As always these meetings are open to the public. Residents of East Bethel should plan to attend as community growth always brings up questions...City council meetings are one forum where you can to get your answers!

Gone in 30 Seconds--Tornado Changes Lives in Anoka & Washington County, MN

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Wed, 28 May 2008 10:27:03 -0500

In under a minute, life changed for so many Twin Cities north metro residents this past 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 a beautiful blue sky by a tornado. Minnesotans should have been on alert all week 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 hit just moments prior to crossing 35E into Hugo. The debris from the grain storage bins are still scattered along the shoulder of the freeway on the other side of the huge farm field today.

Read more about the Hugo tornado here.

From the time we are children, we have been 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. My husband and I knew intellectually that tornados could be devastating but we always thought we would be safe in our basement.

Not so anymore as many 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 about 10 minutes before the sirens went off. I thought it was unusual to hear an airplane flying in this weather...It was the sound of the storm. I clicked on the TV and heard that what appeared to be a tornado 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 tornados typically move in a northeastern direction. We appeared to be 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 people I knew that could now be 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 this particular storm was different so I had instinctively grabbed all of our cell phones as I headed down to the basement. I won't feel so foolish about doing this the next time. My husband and I have now 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 prized 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.

Review Tornado Safety Tips and Facts at the FEMA Website by Clicking HERE.

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.

Memorable Memorial Day—Another Wildlife Encounter in Ham Lake, Minnesota

Teri Eckholm, Realtor® Anoka County MN (Keller Williams Premier Realty) — Sun, 25 May 2008 20:47:46 -0500

Living on acreage can bring encounters with wildlife from time to time. We have hawks, eagles, blue jays and cardinals flying overhead. There are raccoons, skunks and every color of squirrel that run through our yard. We have seen grouse, pheasants and wild turkeys too.

A few of these encounters have been unusual. A few summers ago, a baby blue jay was kicked out of his nest and too frightened to fly. It spent the day in our lilac bush until it bolstered up the nerve to fly away. Two years ago we had a male pheasant that decided to feast along with the smaller birds out of our deck feeders day after day. That year a hawk also decided to make our yard home and we witnessed him feeding on smaller animals as he sat in the catelpa tree outside our home. Last fall we had a wild turkey knocking on our basement window a week before Thanksgiving. (What was that bird thinking?) And earlier this spring we had an opossum living under our back steps.

Yesterday, we had a strange encounter on our acreage with white-tailed deer. Now our property is surrounded by trees and tall grass that are perfect deer habitats and we live very near Coon Lake. We often see does, fawns and an occasional buck run across the yard. Since Anoka County soil is very sandy, my boys loved making plaster casts of their hoof prints when they were younger. But this was different.

Our 16-year-old dog, Tikki, is still with us but requires special care and gets up very early in the morning to go out to do his business. At 5:30 am, he went out to his favorite spot a few yards from the house. At his age he no longer wanders and thank goodness doesn't see well either. By the time I got my jacket on, he was having a stare down with a huge doe! So I clap my hands to distract Tikki. As blind as he is, he didn't chase the white-tailed deer as he would of a few years ago. After getting Tikki inside, I noticed the doe was standing her ground. Odd...but thought, what a great picture. I went in for my camera. With her still posing, I snapped a few shots but the light was very low. The pictures were very grainy...not much to share with my blog readers after all.

An hour later, Tikki had to go out again. I looked out first and saw a younger deer running through the same area of the yard. Figuring that I spooked it when I opened the door, I let the dog out but stayed to watch just in case. When Tikki reached his favorite destination between our back door and grass-infested, overgrown firepit, the deer bound out of the woods just in front of the fire area. Our almost blind dog was again confronted by a deer. But seeing me, this younger animal was skittish and bound right back into the woods.

Yesterday was yard work day. It was a cold spring so this was our first lawn cutting of the year. Weeds, sticks and overgrown grass needed to be addressed...After seeing Indiana Jones of course. So mid-afternoon as we pulled into the driveway my youngest son was given the chore of picking up all of the branches that had fallen over the backyard from the oak trees. These branches are thrown into the firepit for future evening activities including roasting hotdogs and marshmallows.

All of the sudden, my son is streaking across the yard for my camera. He came back and showed me the photo of a fawn in the overgrown grass by the firepit. Should we call the DNR to have them get him? I think he has been abandoned.

Thinking back to the morning adventures, I think the fawn's mom might have just delivered the little one when Tikki made his first trip out in the morning. When I checked on the baby (and took a photo or two of my own) it appeared the fawn's legs were not yet strong enough to move. I was certain that the others were out there waiting until darkness to coax their new family member into the woods.

As dusk fell we watched from a safe distance inside our home. Just before the thunderstorm hit last night, three larger deer circled the firepit and encouraged the fawn to use his unsteady legs. The young white-tail was off with his family but gave us a Memorial Day experience we will never forget.

Ready for your own Minnesota Wildlife Adventures? 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.

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***Price REDUCED****601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433

Buying a Home on Minnesota Lakeshore—Is the Water Really Safe?

Understanding Risk of Loss—How Severe Weather Affects Real Estate

East Bethel to Discuss Hwy 65/Viking at Council Meeting Wednesday June 4

Gone in 30 Seconds--Tornado Changes Lives in Anoka & Washington County, MN

Memorable Memorial Day—Another Wildlife Encounter in Ham Lake, Minnesota

*Price REDUCED**601 86th Lane NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433