Published July 25, 2023
Cabin Fever: Your Guide to Buying the Perfect Cabin in Minnesota
If you live in Minnesota, there’s a chance you’ve been to a cabin “up north.” Whether it’s your own or someone else’s, what’s not to enjoy about a little escape to a more rustic oasis, sipping coffee on the deck and spending hours on and in the water.
If you don’t own a cabin, but you’ve been thinking about purchasing one, here are a few things to think about before you dive in.
Set a clear budget, and consider all the typical expenses that accompany buying a house: closing costs, an inspection fee, taxes, etc.
When you tour a property, you’ll want to keep your eye out for any major maintenance (since cabins are not most people’s main property, projects can often go undone or previous owners might have gone with quick fixes). Inspections are generally a good idea, especially for a property that is not utilized year round.
Do some research around natural hazards in the area, think floods, wildfires, extreme weather, etc. While you can never predict if any of these would affect your property, it’s a good idea to be aware of potential hazards before buying.
Think about how secluded you want your cabin. Some people prefer a more neighborhood feel while others aim to completely escape to a private oasis. Keep in mind that new construction can always happen, so considering the size of the lot is a good way to know if you might be welcoming new neighbors closeby.
Many people prefer a cabin on a lake, and if this is you, ensure you understand any details such as wake ordinances, dock rules, etc.
You’ll want a real estate agent that you trust and has experience with this type of purchase. While our VIBE agents focus mainly on buying and selling in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, we would be happy to refer you to a top notch agent if you’re considering purchasing a cabin.
Just like any large purchase, there’s a lot to consider when buying a cabin. After you’ve thought about the above list, you’ll also want to contemplate your personal preferences as cabins come in all shapes and sizes. Do you want a wood burning fireplace? An open floor plan? More rustic or more modern? Multiple bedrooms? Direct lake access?
Whether you buy your own cabin or enjoy someone else’s, we hope you have a chance to escape city life this summer!
