REALTOR® , gri carla@oakrealtymn.com (320) 493-1361 JOHN
john@oakrealtymn.com (763) 244-7031
JENNA POTTER REALTOR® , gri, crs jenna@oakrealtymn.com (612) 801-4967
angie@oakrealtymn.com (320) 274-5737
720 Elm Street East | PO Box 298
Annandale, MN 55302
Local: 320.274.5737 Fax: 320.274.8210
501 Maple Avenue North | PO Box 564
Maple Lake, MN 55358
Local: 320.963.2088 Fax: 320.963.2089
600 8 th Avenue | Suite 1
Howard Lake, MN 55349
Local: 800.489.4625
COPYRIGHT
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
DISTRIBUTION
The Heart of the Lakes Property Portfolio is distributed at a number of local businesses and establishments. If you would like a copy mailed directly to your home or business, just drop us an email, we would be happy to send you one.
DIGITAL EDITION
You can view an interactive digital version of each Property Portfolio edition online at www.issuu.com/oakrealty. Contact us or sign-up on our web site to have it emailed directly to you.
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Exceptional custom built patio home situated on 5 beautiful acres in prime location. Entering the home you will love the open design and easy flow that this one level home was intended for. The grand foyer leads to the entertaining part of the home with the living, dining and kitchen connecting to one another. The private owners suite has great views of your acreage along with oversized walk in closet and luxurious private bath. The other 2 bedrooms both have walk in closets and are spacious. Located on the back side of the home you have a great room that leads to a stamped concrete patio with built in fire pit a great spot to relax and enjoy nature. On the front side of the home your covered porch is a great place to retreat to and enjoy some quiet country life. The 4 car attached garage is completely finished, you also have a 40 X 40 pole shed with all the extra space for the toys and your private workshop.
7630 LAKE JOHN DRIVE, ANNANDALE
$1,449,900 | #6597386
The Preserve at Lake John was mindfully crafted and has become the most desired upscale neighborhood on Lake John. This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home has been built with lake life in mind. Entertaining will be a breeze with custom kitchen, dining room surrounded by windows and a vaulted great room. Retreat for the night in the main level owner’s suite featuring vaulted ceiling and a private bathroom complete with a soaking tub and walk-in closet. Created for gathering, the walk-out lower level features an open family room with a fantastic wet bar that leads to the sliding glass door opening to the lakeside patio. The lower level is finished with a 3/4 bathroom, exercise room including rubber floor and 2 additional bedrooms. You will fall in love with over 75 feet of sandy-hard bottom shoreline featuring breathtaking sunsets. Spanning across 411 acres, Lake John is an area favorite for fishing and boating enjoyment!
LAKE JOHN
County Acres
With its majestic, towering trees, this custom home looks and feels like your own private forest sanctuary with immaculate landscaping. Built with gathering and entertainment in mind, enjoy a grand entrance, formal dining room, expansive living room with gas fireplace, beautiful kitchen with a large island and coffee bar. Retreat to the primary suite with a lavish private bathroom, complete with a jetted tub and walk-in closet with glass sliding door that conveniently opens to the laundry room. Imagine spending your nights in the impressive three-season porch with a wood fireplace and electronic shades. The porch opens to the backyard surrounded with gorgeous landscaping, custom lighting and a hot tub surrounded by a spacious. Envision your nights spent relaxing in the hot tub with truly glorious views. The triple garage offers floor drains and a third stall designed as an owner's hideout or make it your hobby room. The home is finished with a second bedroom, three-quarter bathroom, office with built-in credenza & bookshelves and a half bathroom. The lush green 5.2 acres lead you to a 42x75 pole shed separated into a generous garage area, 30x42 wood working space and an office complete with a bathroom and welcoming covered porch. Here, the beauty and tranquility are reminders that nature is often the best company.
6095 COUNTY ROAD 3 SW, COKATO
$1,150,000 | #6563527
16490 STATE HIGHWAY 55 NW, SOUTH HAVEN
$1,350,000 | #6600282
Step into your own private paradise with this spectacular custom built country home. Gently rolling land encapsulated with trees, gardens, and amazing landscape all nestled into nearly 32 acres. Enter the home through the dynamic entryway, open to plenty of natural light from large windows throughout an open floor plan. Living room boasts 9-foot vaulted ceilings throughout and huge windows offering a picturesque view. Kitchen is full of custom cabinetry, granite countertops and built-in upgrades. Retreat to the primary bedroom suite, complete with private bath and walk in closets. This home has so much detail and well thought out features, including high efficiency geothermal heating and cooling. Lower level also exhibits 9-foot ceilings and walks out to the patio surrounded by meticulously maintained landscaping, flower gardens and pond. This one-of-a kind property has so much to offer and is sure to bring peace and joy!
13465 80TH STREET NW, ANNANDALE
$549,900 | #6582589
Situated along the Lake Sylvia peninsula, this completely custom home is calling you to start your own cherished traditions. The floorplan was customized for the lot and features lake views from every corner you turn. Entertain in the kitchen with two-tone cabinets, large center island and even a butler's pantry. Soaring ceilings lead into the dining room & living room glowing from the gas fireplace. Spanning the entirety of the upper level, the spacious owner's suite offers generous walk-in closet, three-quarter bathroom and laundry. Gather in the walk-out lower level offering a family room and recreation room featuring a wet bar and glass door to lakeside patio. An additional bedroom, office, second laundry and full bathroom completes the lower level. Every lake home needs a bunkhouse, this may be your favorite space. Fresh air awaits, savor the outdoors with gorgeous landscaping and lush green grass. Lake traditions start here!
As a company, there are a few things that we
believe
EDUCATION FIRST
Our focus in every working relationship is on educating our buyers and sellers to the very best of our ability. If you are well educated, we believe you will feel comfortable with the sales process and be prepared to make the best decisions for yourself.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE MATTERS
We know the neighborhoods, woods, roads and water. How is the fishing? What length would the school bus ride be? Is this road plowed in the winter? There are thousands of good questions. Your agent will have answers.
RELATIONSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT
We maintain strong relationships with service providers in our area that you may need in your purchase or sale. This assures you that you will have quality answers and solutions when questions or an unexpected problem arise.
TEAMWORK IS ESSENTIAL
Our agents are independent, but are supported by the whole of the office. We believe that working together impacts our service in a powerful way. When we help each other out, we are able to better serve our customers and clients.
NEGOTIATION IS KEY
Putting an offer on the table as a buyer, or reviewing an offer that is being presented to you, is a pivotal moment in any search or sale. Guidance that is clear, informative, and sincere is important. Our agents will take you through each step with your best interest in mind.
WE ARE A MARKETING COMPANY
We are driven by creativity, excellence and innovation. Advertising should be smart and targeted. One checklist does not apply to all, so expect a plan that is customized to your one-of-a-kind property! Beware, we love to talk marketing!
THIS SHOULD BE FUN
We don’t deny that buying and selling real estate can be among the most important decisions you will make, but we hope it will be fun too. We are privileged to be your guide, and hope that in the end, it is a road you will be glad you traveled.
1351X 53RD STREET NW, ANNANDALE
$649,900 | #6638863
Imagine your days spent on this 63 +/- acres of gorgeous rolling farmland. 50 +/- of those ares are tillable. Enjoy southern views of the countryside and French Lake in the distance all set on a scenic and quiet location. CPI (Crop Production Index) is showing an Avg at 80.6 (Wright County Avg 70.8) on this Property. Located just a short drive to Annandale and Cokato offering fantastic amenities.
810 MORRISON AVENUE S, ANNANDALE
$69,000 | #6634046
Great opportunity to build a new home in desirable golf course community. Walk to the Country Club and meet friends and neighbors at the Restaurant/ Bar which is open year-round. The lot borders the community playground, volleyball and basketball courts. The property next door is owned by the same party. Tragically, the home was burnt down. Owners are in the process of having the home professionally demolished. The lot next to the house is also available so there is an opportunity for a double lot if desired. You will feel right at home in this well established neighborhood. Hop in your golf cart and get to know the neighbors. The city of Annandale, with boutiques, eateries, a brewery, coffee shop, churches and more is located about a mile away.
New luxury townhomes being built in heart of Southbrook Golf Course. These stylish units have a fresh modern look with high quality finishes. The open interior design and layout makes for easy living. Primary bedroom offers a large walk in closet, double sinks with quartz countertops, tile floor and curbless tile shower. There is a 2nd bedroom along with a den that can used as a home office. Off the mud and laundry room a nice added feature is the built in storm shelter. Living room is complimented by a gas fireplace with built ins on each side and opens to the kitchen and dining room. Kitchen is lined with quartz countertops, center island with sink, and custom cabinets. The rear covered porch is ideal for private entertaining or retreating for quiet time. The front porch has a view of the 9th hole and great spot to say hello to neighbors. Association handles the snow removal and lawn mowing so all you have to do is play and enjoy life.
Red Door Retreat
Your family vacation search ends here at this expansive home with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, complete with all the comforts of home. The water is just a few steps away, spend your days gliding through more than 1,500 acres of pristine Lake Sylvia water. Situated in a quiet neighborhood, you will awaken to song birds and fall asleep to the sounds of waves.
Gather in this comfortable home, built in 2023. Spread out in the main level surrounded with views of Lake Sylvia. The spacious kitchen has all the modern amenities you’ll need to enjoy your vacation on the lake. Spread out in the living room and dining room offering wonderful space for the whole family. Turn-in for the night in the main level master suite or one of the 4 upper level bedrooms complete with 2 three-quarter bathrooms. Spend some quiet time curled up on the lakeside patio while taking in the Lake Sylvia shoreline or enjoying with Swedish fireplace that is perfect for s’mores year-round!
Imagine your perfect day out on the water warmed by the sun shining down as the fish bite or watching the kiddos giggle as you tow them behind the boat. This is a home you can come back to year after year and create some memories, Lake Sylvia is only steps away. Pack up your family, and head for the lake!
OUR ROOTS START HERE
At the heart of who we are, and why we all love what we do, is the Annandale area itself. The Heart of the Lakes, as it has long been called, is a wonderful lake country area that attracts young families and retirees. Many who once vacationed here now live here full time, and it’s no wonder why. It’s a charming small town with great schools and endless recreation. It is important to us that we surpass being just knowledgeable of the area, and that we also provide you with service that goes above and beyond. As clients of ours, you will be treated like a neighbor... because you are. There are a couple of things at the core of what “Seriously Local” means:
NICHE MARKETING
Our focus is here. We know the local market, and its history, extremely well. If you’re looking at property and want to know specifics about fishing or a local school bus route, we have your answers. If you’re selling, these are things your buyer will want to know about too. As an independently-owned office, we make all of our own decisions, and at the heart of those decisions are what is best for serving our clients and the community.
LOCALLY-FOCUSED TECHNOLOGY
We won’t adopt a tool or system just to impress you, but we will implement technology that makes sense for you as a buyer or seller. For that reason our web site, www.oakrealtymn.com, is useful and full of local information. It offers quick links to area lakes, a fantastic map search, and upcoming open house information. Our daily hot list is a favorite, and the only resource of its kind for immediate updates solely on the Heart of the Lakes market.
HEART FOR THE COMMUNITY
This area is much more than the place we work. We are all active in the community, from various non-profit/civic groups to lake associations, schools and churches. We love participating in local traditions like Annandale’s historic 4th of July parade, Maple Lake St. Patrick's Day Parade, Clearwater Heritage Days Parade, Annandale Expo among many others. We also join in to support other surrounding communities in their celebrations as well.
Seriously Local
because we embrace the Heart of the Lakes
Residential Lots
15XXX 60TH STREET SW, COKATO - (4) 2.5 ACRE PARCELS
xciting new sub-division just on the South edge of the city limits. Lined with a row of mature trees, you'll fall in love with views right from your window. Lots are 2.5 level acres offering plenty of space for your forever home. Enjoy a short drive to a variety of local shops and dining options Cokato has to offer.
CLEARWATER LAKE
9644 KRAMER AVENUE NW, ANNANDALE
$725,000 | #6626322
Nestled on the shores of Clearwater Lake you will find this quaint chalet style lake home that is surrounded by pure nature. County land surrounds you on all sides meaning complete privacy at the lake. Once you enter the home you will notice the well designed interior that produces exceptional views in all directions of your outdoor paradise. The attention to detail along with quality craftsmanship will be appreciated as you flow through the home. The main level is all open with the upper level loft used for sleeping quarters. The lower level offers another sleeping area with built in bunks. The garage was added in the last few years and is not used as your typical garage. Garage is finished and used as an additional entertaining area and includes an upper level loft area. The upper level loft area in the garage can be used as a home office, additional sleeping or recreational room. Relax in the sauna before you dip into the hot tub on waters' edge.
EAGLE LAKE
8832 BISHOP AVENUE NW, MAPLE LAKE
$649,900 | #6625257
Well maintained 3-bedroom home on Eagle Lake offering great curb appeal awesome views of the lake. The end of the road location offers peace and privacy. Perfect for anyone wanting to live the "lake life". Bedrooms are located on the main level as you walk into the home and the kitchen, living-room and sun-room are in the lower level providing a more convenient access to the lake. There are 2 PID's included in this sale. The second PID has a 24x16 garage and is where the mound system is. There is an irrigation system with water supplied from the lake helping to keep the grass and gardens lush all summer long. A fish cleaning station and a shed is located near the shore where lake toys and equipment can be stored. Seller will be leaving the docks, boat lifts and assorted lift removal tools and even a fishing boat.
65164 365TH STREET, WATKINS
$500,000 | #6611870
Wonderful opportunity to have new modern home built on the lake. The new home will offer great views of the water from the interior of the home. Cozy up in front of the fireplace and capture the natural beauty on the outside. The main level of the home has an open design and layout ideal for entertaining at the lake. The upper level includes 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and the laundry room. The owners suite will be lakeside and includes dual sinks, tile shower and spacious walk in closet. The kitchen offers a large center island with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and ample cabinets. This wooded lot is located on a dead end street for quiet peaceful area to have a lake place. Clear Lake offers fishing and recreational fun. The photos of the home are from the builders model home and this is what will be built on the lot.
95 MYRTLE AVENUE S, ANNANDALE
$230,000 | #6633977
Situated in the heart of Annandale, this home is walking distance to wonderful amenities, fantastic parks & beaches and Annandale Middle School. The home includes three bedrooms, living room, family room, kitchen, unfinished basement and backyard deck. Splashes of natural light are offered throughout the home from many large windows. The triple garage offers a third-stall recreation space with see-through garage doors allowing for fantastic sunlight throughout the space, enjoy entertaining! A level yard with mature trees and landscaping is the perfect backdrop to enjoy warm summer evenings or crisp fall mornings in the Heart of the Lakes.
There’s no life more wonderful than The Preserve at Lake John, an upscale development with glorious sunsets tucked away on a quiet street. This is a new and exciting development offering stunning expansive lakeshore lots with sandy-hard bottom shoreline, perfect for your dream home in a wonderful neighborhood.
LAKESHORE LOTS STARTING at $419,900
This is your perfect opportunity to join the Clearwater Forest Resort Community, located on Clearwater Lake and nestled on 40 acres! This home is livable year-round on lot #42 offering a quiet and serene lifestyle you crave while still living amongst the community. Enjoy peace and quiet on this lot with woods in the back and mature trees on the lot that shades the home! You do rent the lot. This spacious home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings, laundry room, and updated kitchen area. Enjoy everything the resort has to offer including? Community heated pool, private lake access and marina, dock rental slips, playground, fish cleaning facility, and showers to name a few! Boat slips are available to enjoy Clearwater Lake with its great fishing spanning over 3,100 acres of water. Join some activities throughout the summer, and you'll surely find this community a great one to be a part of!
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8947 INGRAM AVENUE NW, ANNANDALE
$875,000 | #6631334
Nestled on the northeast shore of Cedar Lake, professional limestone block landscaping spans the entirety of the property offering the perfect backdrop for lake views. Be welcomed with a main level featuring a spacious kitchen and living room leading to the lakeside family room warmed by a gas fireplace, the ideal place to unwind after a day of work or outdoor recreation. Retreat to the upstairs complete with a primary suite featuring a lakeside deck and walk-in closet. The upper level also includes a second bedroom, walk-thru bathroom and den. Recently remodeled, the lower level offers a living room, third bedroom and three-quarter bathroom. Step outside to the expansive lakeside patio with a built-in fireplace. With a double garage and additional garage on a back lot, you will have more than enough storage space. Need more? A Tahoe Fish N Ski boat and trailer is included!
CEDAR LAKE
LAKE JOHN VIEWS
7541 LAKE JOHN DRIVE, ANNANDALE
$489,900 | #6548736
This new patio home will be The Preserve of Lake John's newest home added to this premier development. This vibrant modern new home will consists of over 1700 square feet of open living space for the easy carefree lifestyle you desire. The open front porch and oversized side patio are premium outdoor entertaining spaces and designed to capture the sights and sounds of the water and neighborhood. Your interior entertaining areas have an open concept which allows the freedom to flow easily from room to room. The well thought out private primary bedroom and bath offers the ideal layout you have been looking for. Both of these rooms along with a large walk in closet and laundry area are all attached for simple ease of use. The grand center island is located perfectly for both the kitchen work station and entertaining your guests. Construction has started so come and purchase this new home today.
2XX MYRTLE DRIVE S, ANNANDALE
$35,000 | #6573431
Nicely wooded city lot at an affordable price. Would make a nice spot for a rambler patio home style home. Located just off Highway 55, nice and easy access, ideal to get going where you need to go. Walking distance to downtown Annandale. Lot is surrounded by mature trees for privacy and shade for the home. The lot is centered to all Annandale has to offer. Open to any builder so choose your builder and get going a building your new home.
Shadowland's Guest House
Experience the Heart of the Lakes finest waters with a vacation stay in a luxurious waterfront home on Lake Sylvia, available to guests seeking a getaway to an exceptional lake country setting. Come, stay, and see what the beauty of this area is truly all about.
Set on 4 private acres of the renown Lake Sylvia Peninsula, this spacious waterfront home is available for year-round enjoyment. Its thoughtful floor plan comfortably accommodates up to 10 adult guests. Relax by the wood burning fireplace or take in the stunning views from the lakeside deck or screened in porch. Families with children, don’t pass it by. With an expansive lakeside lawn that stretches along 450+ feet of pristine shoreline, this is a haven for fun and play.
You will enjoy the crystal clear waters of two private swimming beaches each offering a dock, the beautiful apple orchard and mature trees, and certainly the home itself. A full screened porch allows you and your guest’s pleasant outdoor dining rain or shine. Gathering spaces throughout invite you to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with family and friends. Great for boating, summer and winter fishing, snowmobiling, summer and winter skiing, and so much more. Property offers a kayak, paddle boat, stand up paddle boards, canoe, hammock, lakeside fire pit and a pickle ball court. Isn’t it time you treated yourself to a week away?
13XXX CENTRAL AVENUE, BECKER
$59,900 | #6534121
Wonderful opportunity to build on this level lot near the corner of Central and Sherburne Avenue. Conveniently located within blocks of many Becker amenities including schools, parks, and restaurants. This oversized city lot has an open building site while mature trees wrap around, offering shade and privacy. Enjoy building on this available site that does not include an HOA or neighborhood covenants. Open to all builders. Beautiful site close to...EVERYTHING!
35
$229,900 | #6633553
Incredibly charming and maintained, this adorable home encompasses 3 bedrooms with one on the main and two on the upper level and 1 1/2 bathrooms. Pride of ownership radiates throughout this home with the immaculate, original wood floors that span across the main level, authentic solid wood doors, custom built-in pass through that brightens the kitchen and dining spaces and tender care that is evident among every area. Situated on a spacious lot that includes a paver patio with a pergola above that looks over the large backyard and one stall garage. This sweet spot is within walking distance to many Maple Lake amenities.
LINDEN AVENUE S, MAPLE LAKE
May the wind always be at your back...
The ideal winter day is few and far between for ice boats - basically a sailboat that travels on thin blades or runners on the surface of the ice. Heavy snow puts a damper on the ice, and most lakes offer just a week or two of activity before Mother Nature shuts them down for the season. Sailors need enough wind to make the boats go, but not so much that it leads to havoc. Unlike soft-water sailors, iceboat racers cannot see the wind on the water. When gusts hit, they react by feel alone, executing split-second decisions to get up to a desired speed, not to mention making it back to shore in one piece.
Dust off your thermos, unpack your boots, pull out your sweaters...it’s time to enjoy winter! Minnesota winters offer many of our favorite sports - downhill & cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snow tubing, ice skating, snow shoeing and so much more. Crisp cool mornings or evenings sprinkled with a fresh blanket of snow bring an excitement with it that only a true Minnesotan may appreciate. Embrace, enjoy and build that snowman!
Pictured: Ed Mader - Pleasant Lake, Annandale
1XX MAPLE STREET, CLEARWATER
$250,000 | #6163968
Unique investment opportunity overlooking the Mississippi River located near Clearwater's Historic Main Street. 1.75 beautiful acres ready for an entrepreneur's creative touch or your dream home. Zoned R-4 Residential Low Density while also being in the Wild & Scenic Corridor this vacant lot would be ideal for single family homes, a two-family dwelling, town-homes, or manor homes with city water and city sewer connection close by. Surrounded by mature trees for added privacy, this level lot can be subdivided into 7 lots. Contact Clearwater's Zoning Administrator for further land use information. Conveniently located near I-94 and County Road 24.
290 BROWN AVENUE NORTH, ANNANDALE
$348,500 | #6537261
Welcome to Hunters Cove newest addition. Brand new twin home with each unit having over 1400 square feet of one level living space. The open concept and design on the interior provides the simple lifestyle you have been desiring. Off the back of the home you will find a sun room and patio that overlooks the natural landscape of the development and adds wonderful backdrop to your back yard oasis. The home offers 2 bedrooms and baths, laundry area near both bedrooms and excellent kitchen layout which is complimented with center island and walk in pantry. Prime location as the home is located on the western edge of town so slick access to all the amenities that the area and Annandale has to offer.
3633 COUNTY ROAD 115 ST. AUGUSTA
$579,900 | #6619474
Country living opportunity with updated walk out rambler and huge shop to boot. Home has had several updates and is move in ready. The 5 car detached garage also has a shop area, ideal for home base business. The shop is over 6000 feet and was used for automotive repair/ body work. Can be used for a variety of business related fields, construction, automotive, truckers this could be your shop. The vaulted living room has ample space and ready for you to set up how you desire. The great room is great place to enjoy your country views in any season. The stone gas fireplace provides warmth and comfort as you enjoy some down time. Property offers excellent entertaining space inside and outside. Lower level offers a family room, 3/4 bath and spacious bedroom with large walk in closet. Property is ideally located with its proximity to St. Cloud and neighboring communities and access to major highways.
431 CEDAR PLACE, MAPLE LAKE
$279,000 | #6596877
Welcome to this nice 4 bedroom townhome in Maple Lake. This home has been meticulously maintained, and has been well cared for, down to the last detail. This home has four bedrooms on one level, along with upper level laundry. Primary bedroom has bathroom suite complete with walk in closet. Great living space on main level, including a dining room with walk out to back yard. Kitchen boasts large center island, and great cabinet space. Large utility room, including extra closet and storage. Two car garage is sheetrocked and insulated, ready to sand and paint! Home is close to amenities of town, including school, stores, post office and more.
660 RIVERVIEW DRIVE #640, MONTICELLO
$269,000 | #6597223
This home sits in a great location on the edge on Monticello. Boasting great views of the Mississippi River (especially in the winter), you are sure to enjoy. Primary bedroom with walk in closet, and pass through bath. Large family room provides lots of room. Kitchen provides lots of countertop and cabinet space for all of your storage and kitchen prep! Utility room with stackable washer and dryer, also on the main level. Garage has two stalls, with a hot and cold water spicket to wash up all of your vehicles, making cleaning easy. Basement is unfinished, providing lots of opportunity to expand your finished living space, with tons of storage space, and a nice family room to complete. Easy access to I-94, and just minutes from shopping, restaurants, hospital and schools.
OUR HISTORY
Oak Realty was founded in 1974 when Don Bruggeman purchased Daryl Gunnarson Realty, and changed the name to Oak Realty after its location on Oak Avenue, Annandale’s charmed Main Street. Our red and white leaf was born and along with it, a tradition of providing quality real estate service in the Heart of the Lakes area.
In 1986 Don’s son Steve joined the business. Opportunities to own lakeshore property were abundant in those days. Lake homes and cabins in the area ranged from $40,000-$100,000 and real estate companies literally held the keys to their front doors. The Sunday Star Tribune was widely-agreed to be the resource for new listings, and buyers often came through our office door with that ad in hand, eager to look at property.
We expanded into the 90’s and outgrew the office on Main Street. In 1996 Oak built a new office with more space and visibility on Highway 55. Steve purchased the business in 2000, and soon after the Internet began to change the industry in profound ways. By 2001 we had our first web site and the fat MLS books were collecting dust in the corner. Oak Realty acquired Lake Country Properties in neighboring Maple Lake in 2007, our local presence expanded to two offices, and our staff grew again. In 2024 we celebrated a milestone, 50 years in business. The anniversary also marked a new beginning. Though excited about where perseverance and hard work has brought the company in its early years, we’re even more excited about what lies ahead.
Our approach to business has changed greatly due to the shift in how buyers and sellers can obtain information. Over the years, however, the true relationship between agent and client hasn’t changed. Since our founding over 51 years ago, our success has been carried by our ability to build long-lasting relationships. Relationships based on honesty, respect and fair business practices. We love taking our customers for a drive through the area and educating them on the various lakes, neighborhoods and their histories. While the majority of today’s buyers (and sellers) have done research online before speaking to an agent, many are quick to realize there is a lot to learn about this area, and a visit with a local expert is a great place to start.
We are proud to be an innovative company. We enjoy seeking new solutions to bring into our business and have continued to do so as we grow and change. We want tools that help us do our job better and more efficiently, and systems that help you buy or sell property with greater confidence. While no one can predict the future, it seems almost a certainty that the Heart of the Lakes will continue to retain its warm character and draw new people to its lakes and countryside. For those that its lifestyle appeals to, (frankly, we wonder how it couldn’t) our friendship and services will be there.
AN AWARD WINNING YEAR
Minnesota Monthly - Best Real Estate Professionals
Best of Central MN Community's Choice Awards - Finalist
Twin Cities Business & Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine - Super Real Estate Agents
Experienced and knowledgeable REALTORS® ready to assist you in a relaxed, comfortable setting. A free, complete market analysis of your lakeshore, residential, land or commercial property.
Complimentary wall-sized individual area lake map prints.
Complimentary area maps.
Excellent marketing resources and high-quality advertising. A foundation of success with over 51 years in business.
