The "Real" Estate Blog

 The "Real" Estate Blog, specialarea Community

Here in the "Real" Estate blog, we will answer the questions, uncomfortable or comfortable, that many of our friends in the general buying and selling public need to know about.  There is much that goes into the buying and selling of real estate that is pretty much common sense.  But what about those issues, or those questions in which the answers aren't really common sense, or contain more grey, than strictly black and white?  We are here to help YOU by answering your real estate questions, and do our best to give you a perspective from the Real Estate professionals.

Area Insights

Brooks North

Brooks North in Okoboji

Brooks North is a newer housing development located on a cul-de-sac offering beautiful views of Brooks Golf Club, ponds, nature areas, the bike trail system and the Nature Center. There are many beautiful homes and only a few vacant lots remain. Brooks North is located on the North end of Brooks Golf Club in Okoboji, IA.

Memorial Park Milford

Memorial Park Milford in Milford

Memorial Park Milford
Located on the Northern side of Milford, Memorial Park offers not only playground equipment for the kids but several softball/baseball fields. The fields not only house Little league/School baseball and softball games but also a very popular Slow Pitch Softball league on Sundays during the summer months.

Great Lakes Guide Service

Great Lakes Guide Service in Outdoors

If you like to fish but don’t know the area or if you think you’d like to try fishing but don’t know where to start, give Great Lakes Guide Service a call. Shane is an avid fisherman. With over 20 years of experience as a professional Iowa fishing guide, he really knows the Iowa Great Lakes and how to find the fish. He has half day and full day o... ptions.  Show More

The Okoboji Tile Shop

The Okoboji Tile Shop in Arnolds Park

The Okoboji Tile Shop

Ben Zenor, a local tile installer established The Okoboji Tile Store in 2012. Ben has been doing tile work for years. He is experienced with new construction, remodel and has done work on custom showers, backsplashes and floors.

The Okoboji Tile Shop also sells tiles, as well as cabinets, countertops and ... bamboo wood flooring.  Show More

Brooks Golf Course

Brooks Golf Course in Okoboji

Brooks Golf Club is one of the premier golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes. Located in Okoboji, Iowa, Brooks is one of the few 27 hole golf courses in Iowa. I've personally been a member here for a number of years, and can tell you that not other course offers the beauty and upkeep that Brooks provides. The numerous flower beds, Caribbean beach...  like bunkers, bent grass fairways, natural prairie grass, and rolling hills provide for an aesthetic pleasure as you play all 27 holes. Brooks also has one of the nicest practice facilities in the state as well. Come say hi to John, Bret and their teams of professionals. if you are an avid golfer and in Boji, you won't want to miss these links.  Show More

Emerald Hills

Emerald Hills in Arnolds Park

Emerald Hills Golf Course is one of the premier golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes. Golfers throughout Okoboji will tell you that compared to the rest of the golf courses around, Emerald Hills is probably the most challenging. When I grew up as a kid, we lived just a half block from the back side of the course. We would sneak on with a couple ... short little clubs and balls we found walking the course and sometimes spent more time being chased by the sprinklers than trying to hit golf balls. Emerald Hills was owned by Gordy and Bette Benit many years ago and they can be credited with growing this course into the masterpiece it has become. Later purchased by Randy Rohlfsen and a few others, Emerald has flourished as one of the best courses around. If memory serves me right, Randy has been there since the early 1990's and has always had a strong conviction to help young golfers. He has taught and coached numerous high school teams, and they also put on a 5 day junior camp every year which has been a tremendous hit. I grew up on this course and can honestly say, you better be hitting the ball straight!  Show More

Arnold's Bark-ery

Arnold's Bark-ery in Arnolds Park

This new business to the lakes area is sure to be a hit! Arnold's Bark-ery makes healthy, fresh made snacks for all of the lucky dogs in the surrounding Okoboji area. They also provide natural, and holistic pet foods in their shop. A fun place to bring your dog to shop, as well as a place to get them groomed. What a fun addition to the area!

Tweeter's

Tweeter's in Okoboji

Tweeter's Bar & Grill a great casual restaurant in Okoboji, no matter what you're craving. Their extensive menu makes it easy for large groups to gather, and appeal to all tastes. Tweeter's offers catering, daily specials, and nightly features. Since they're open year round, Tweeter's is a favorite among locals, and tourists alike.

The Hair Team

The Hair Team in Spirit Lake

Looking for the best full service Salon in Spirit Lake, then check out The Hair Team located on Lake Street in downtown. Amber and Tammi are the best Duo in town. Looking for the best updo for your wedding party look no further. They have a very enticing wedding package with a complimentary breakfast for you and your bridesmaids to make your day as...  smooth as possible.  Show More

Los Pueblos

Los Pueblos in Arnolds Park

Los Pueblos is a family owned business known for serving some of the best food around with a very festive atmosphere. Enjoy one of their famous margaritas while you munch on some chips and salsa. Whether you are in the mood for enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, or fish tacos, they have something the whole family can enjoy!

Okoboji Expedition Co.

Okoboji Expedition Co. in Okoboji

Okoboji Expedition Co is a bicycle and outdoor sports store in Okoboji, Iowa. We are located on the eastern shore of West Okoboji Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes region. The Okoboji Expedition Company carries bicycles, kayaks, cycling apparel, cross country skis, and snowshoes along with all the needed accessories for all of the above. We also special... ize in custom bike fittings and offer winter spinning classes.
We offer bicycle products from Specialized, Cervelo, Co-motion and Alchemy. We also stock Oru kayaks and paddle boards from SOL, Tubbs snowshoes, Atomic cross country skis and outdoor clothing from Mavic, Pearl Izumi and Louis Garneau. Stop in and see us… you’ll be glad you did.
  Show More

Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion

Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion in Milford

Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion
2501 Boji Bend Dr
Milford, IA 51351

Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion offers a LOT.

Facilities Include: Banquet area with a giant indoor rug slide, kitchen/catering, Bar area, Conference Room, 2 Outdoor Pools, Boji Bay Legacy Park Concert area, mini golf, as well as the Clubhouse restaurant.

... One can rent out the pools for a concert, or the Banquet area for weddings/parties.  Show More

The Sports Page Bar & Grill

The Sports Page Bar & Grill in Spencer

Sports Page is a fan favorite restaurant in Spencer, Iowa. With their never ending menu, with classic American food, its sure to please everyone that visits! With TV's everywhere you look, you won't miss any of the action, whether it be football, baseball, basketball, or any of the other major sports, Sports Page has you covered! This family friend... ly restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere for all to enjoy.  Show More

Bridges Bay Resort

Bridges Bay Resort in East Lake Okoboji

Bridges Bay Resort is built on the land purchased a few years prior which used to be owned by the Nielsen family of Arnolds Park. This huge complex consists of a hotel, 3 condo buildings (a 4th is under construction), and over 100 vacation cabins. A popular part of the resort is the indoor waterpark that cabin and condo owners have access to, but...  also, so does the public for a fee. Braccos is a fantastic summertime restaurant and bar which is frequented by boat, by car, and by foot, especially from the owners of the condos and cabins. All of the units at Bridges Bay have an opportunity for a boat hoist, and it is an extremely popular destination for out of towners looking for a vacation spot in Okoboji. Because Bridges Bay is not within the city limits, many owners utilize property management companies to help them rent their units by the day, week, and month. I've personally sold and shown many condo and cabin units and would be delighted to help.  Show More

The Inn of Okoboji

The Inn of Okoboji in Okoboji

3301 Lakeshore Drive

Okoboji, IA 51355

WEBSITE

For a little History of The Inn dating back to the 1890's CLICK HERE

The Inn at Okoboji offers so much to do and so much history. Located on 500 feet of West Okoboji Lake lakeshore, the views are amazing. The Inn is a hotel/resort, with a dining and a full service...  facility designed for meetings, gatherings, events and weddings.

Also, The Inn has a 9 hole executive golf course and is partnered with other local golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes Area. They also have in door and out door pools with a hot tub, docks, and an on-site boat lift

If you are looking for a family friendly place to watch the fireworks on the 4th of July while avoiding the congestion of the Amusement Park area, this is your spot. You don't have to be a guest of the hotel, but the 500 feet of lakeshore provide ample seating for hundreds of people to have a good time. They offer live music and offer hot dogs and hamburgers, so come enjoy the day and stay for the fireworks.
  Show More

Hidden Gem

Hidden Gem in Ayrshire

Beautiful views and living on the lake without all the other commotion. Silver Lake in Ayrshire is a great place to find tranquility with every day life. Boating, fishing and friendly neighbors is what you will find in this hidden gem.

Ruthven Meat Locker

Ruthven Meat Locker in Ruthven

Ruthven Meat Locker is a local family owned business. Ruthven Locker at the Lakes is their 2nd retail store (with the original Meat Processing plant being a staple in the small town of Ruthven, Iowa). They are a full service meat shop providing their customers with excellent high quality cuts of beef & pork. Also provided are smoked meat snack... s which they make right on site in Ruthven. Sure to please even the pickiest of palates! Ruthven Meat Locker prides themselves on promoting other local small businesses by selling them in our Spirit Lake store. You find everything from fine wood pieces to local honey, microgreens, baked goods, and delicious cheesecake. The Butcher’s Wife is always available to answer your questions and take special orders. Come on in and you’ll soon see that the rumors are true!  Show More

St. Albin's Episcopal Church

St. Albin's Episcopal Church in Spirit Lake

St Alban’s Episcopal Church
23rd St & Zenith Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 10 a.m.
Tuesday at 9 a. m. (Holy Eucharist-no music)

Bay View Gifts & Garden

Bay View Gifts & Garden in Spirit Lake

Bay View Gifts & Garden
3202 Hwy 71
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Bay View Gifts & Garden is another opportunity for those of you who are looking for antiques. One can find other Gifts, Outdoor Décor and Plants here as well. Take a look at the selection of Adirondack chairs as you drive by on Hwy 71. Located across the street f... rom us at RE/MAX Lakes Realty  Show More

Kiwanis Park

Kiwanis Park in Spirit Lake

Kiwanis Park
1100 23rd St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Close to the schools, Fareway Grocery and the bike trails, Kiwanis park offers a Shelter house, access to the bike trail system, good playground equipment, especially for younger kids, grills, park benches, picnic tables and has handicap-accessible restroomsKiwanis Park
1100 23rd ... St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Close to the schools, Fareway Grocery and the bike trails, Kiwanis park offers a Shelter house, access to the bike trail system, good playground equipment, especially for younger kids, grills, park benches, picnic tables and has handicap-accessible restrooms
  Show More

Sunset Travel Agency

Sunset Travel Agency in Milford

Start planning now for all of your fall and winter getaways. We are specialists in all inclusives, cruises, family reunions, honeymoons and destination weddings. In specific areas we are specialists in Mexico, Disney, cruises and hotels. You can have confidence is Sunset Travel Agency with over 35 years of experience in the travel industry.

EAST SUNNYVILLE

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of East Lake Sunnyville in the Lake Section of the Area Category.

Bracco

Bracco in Arnolds Park

Bracco World Cafe brings you to the beach, and tropics; you almost forget that you're in Iowa, and not in Mexico! They have the best exotic drink menu anywhere in town. This family owned restaurant has a menu like no other, featuring Island, Asian, and American cuisine. They offer a casual atmosphere for coming right off the boat. Bracco also has a...  large bar area, complete with sand, and hammock chair beach chairs, to ensure ultimate relaxation.  Show More

WEST Algona

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of West Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category

Winther Stave & Co

Winther Stave & Co in Spencer

At Winther, Stave & Co., LLP we use a team approach. You have a team of accounting professionals at your disposal, not just one person. With specialists in many different areas, we can draw on that breadth of knowledge and experience to help with services ranging from taxes, to payroll, to wealth preservation.

Buyer and seller real estate app, right at your fingertips.

Buyer and seller real estate app, right at your fingertips. in The

Browse real-time MLS listings in the Iowa Great Lakes Region
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Every 30 seconds, a RE/MAX agent helps someone find their perfect place. Let us help you find yours.

1. Search "SellBoji" in your app store on your cell phone.
2. Download the app
3. Create a profile to access info or save searches (This is not necessary to browse the listings)
4. Enjoy all the benefits of the real estate app
  Show More

Beach Street Boutique

Beach Street Boutique in Arnolds Park

Arnolds Park Boutique offering beautiful clothing that is reasonably priced, and unique. They have a variety of sizes - beautiful clothes and accessories!

"Turn-Over" Thermocline

Referred to locally as the lake turning over the thermocline is a feature of lakes with deep water. The water on the top of the lake changes temperature much more variably during the year. On West Lake, it can reach as much as 75 degrees in July while the water below, greater than 35 or 40 feet deep is relatively stable around 45 degrees. In the ... fall and early winter, the top strata of the lake will cool to below 45 degrees, and then because it becomes denser, it will "sink" below the lower strata, thus, displacing it and making the lake "turn-over". In the deepest part of West Lake (near the 136ft mark), no light is availble, and hence little life is known whether fish or plant. Typically questions are raised as to why the surface water gets dirty for a short period of time in the fall, this this is the standard answer.  Show More

Quality Ice Fishing

Quality Ice Fishing in Lake Minnewashta

The ice is in and its time to mark some fish! Drag the sled right down the ramp off of Dam Road in Arnolds Park and you are catching fish in minutes. On Minnewashta, no spot is a bad spot. Surrounded by a number of beautiful lake homes, the scene is perfect for drilling some holes and jigging your way to a fresh meal. Gills, perch, crappie and wall... eye will keep you busy in your fish shack. If have not fished on Lake Minnewashta, now is the time.  Show More

The Family Diner

The Family Diner in Spirit Lake

The Family Diner is Spirit Lake, IA is a local favorite! They offer up a large portion for small money, but whether you come early or late you may be in for a wait. With homemade bread and the largest sausage patty you have seen, The Family Diner is consistently delicious. They are open only for breakfast and lunch and closed two days a week. In...  my former career at Stylecraft, the family diner was definately a favorite when our friends would visit from North Carolina. They were always inpressed with the bread and rolls and corn beef hash.  Show More

Furniture Mart

Furniture Mart in Spirit Lake

Furniture Mart
2502 17th St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Located just west of Walmart and next door to the Ramada Inn, The Furniture Mart offers a HUGE floor space filled with a great selection of furniture. Selections include Living Room, Dining, Bedroom and Office furniture. They also offer Mattresses, TV Stands and different Decor an... d Accent pieces. In home delivery available as well.  Show More

Good News Community Church

Good News Community Church in Okoboji

Good News Community Church
1010 Julia Street
Okoboji, IA 51355

Services
Sunday at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

The Barefoot Bar

The Barefoot Bar in Okoboji

Arguably the most iconic spot in all of the lakes area, Barefoot Bar is the one place you must visit when you're here for the summer. They have the best blended drinks, as well as every other cocktail you can think of, served in their signature cups. Its the perfect place on the lake to sit back and relax with friends, while enjoying the view, and ... all of the palm trees. Barefoot Bar also has a menu, to enjoy some food while you're soaking in the sun. Its even the perfect place for kids, with a full swing set, and even a slide that goes right into the lake!  Show More

Consumers Lumber Company

Consumers Lumber Company in Spencer

Consumers Lumber Company is the only locally owned and operated building center in the area. They have been proudly serving the best builders and homeowners with the best materials and services since 1906.
They have locations in Spirit Lake and Spencer Iowa with a complete line of building materials and builder’s hardware. They also have full...  showrooms of millwork, stone, decking and cabinetry.
Dollars spent with Consumers Lumber stay in Dickinson and Clay counties. They support all the area schools and youth organizations along with several other community charities. Consumers Lumber Company is also very proud of the fact that their 15 employees have over 200 years of combined service to our company and that they all live, shop and play here.
They offer timely and accurate project bids and drawings to better serve the areas builders and homeowners. They also provide free and fast delivery to the four county area.
  Show More

AFLAC

AFLAC in Milford

Your local agent providing the Aflac benefit and service is Adam Roos (Milford). Aflac offers protection to families with a goal of reducing financial stress through income-loss and asset-loss protection. Aflac insures more than 50 million people. Aflac also offers different Supplemental Medical coverages. You can reach Adam at 712-330-4790 or ... adam_roos@us.aflac.com  Show More

Miracle Truss Buildings

Miracle Truss Buildings in Spirit Lake

Miracle Truss Buildings may be new to area but the company name has been around for decades. This company provides do-it-yourself building kits with clear-span web steel trusses that are made right here in the USA. It is also veteran owned. You can customize kits for garages, homes, shops, RV and marine, commercial, agricultural, cabins, hangar... s--anything you can imagine! Call 800-208-1969 for an appointment at their design center located at 1703 Hill Ave in Spirit Lake, or visit their website at miracletruss.com to read all about them. The knowledgeable staff is ready to help you with your next project. Free quotes, too!  Show More

The Coffee Shop & Cafe

The Coffee Shop & Cafe in Milford

This establishment offers a variety of coffees, espressos and smoothies plus mouth-watering baked goods--not to mention the fabulous breakfast and lunch items--made to order! There are daily specials as well as homemade soups. Did I mention this all comes with an Italian flair? The staff is amazing and the atmosphere inviting. Located at the Ga... teway to the Iowa Great Lakes on Okoboji Ave (Hwy. 71) in Milford. Stop in, you won't be disappointed!  Show More

The Clubhouse

The Clubhouse in Milford

The Clubhouse
2501 Boji Bend Dr
Milford, IA 51351

The Clubhouse is a smaller, comfortable restaurant with great food and a good atmosphere and even better food. There is a full bar, TV’s for the games, access to the pool area and inside and outside seating.

Gilbert Park

Gilbert Park in Spirit Lake

Gilbert Park
601 Hill Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Located on a large piece of land, with green space for kids to play and 500 feet of East Lake Okoboji shoreline. Also available are a large shelter house, basketball court, 2 public floating docks, playground equipment park benches, picnic tables and handicap-accessible restrooms

The Boonedocks

The Boonedocks in Arnolds Park

The Boonedocks is your one-stop-shop! They have it all. Full selection of beer, wine, grocery items, and of course gasoline. Located right in Arnolds Park!

Okoboji Appliance Repair

Okoboji Appliance Repair in Okoboji

Dependable & knowledgeable residential appliance repair company. Servicing most major brands of appliances in the Okoboji area. Hours are M-F 8am - 5pm. 24-hour service available.

Erpelding, Voigt & Co., L.L.P.

Erpelding, Voigt & Co., L.L.P. in Okoboji

For more than 45 years, we have been providing tax preparation, business planning, financial reporting services and personal financial planning. Founded in 1974, Erpelding, Voigt & Co., LLP has grown to encompass more than 49 professional associates and staff in five locations. As a progressive accounting firm employing the latest technologies,...  we have developed a reputation for professional excellence through the consistent high quality services we provide. We bring a wealth of knowledge and value to each of our clients.  Show More

Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware in Spirit Lake

3401 Berquist Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Local hardware store in Spirit Lake owned by Gary & Peggy Fick & Cynthia Fick. The selection and the service are excellent at Ace Hardware, if you have a need they are quick at helping you find it. You can find Ace HW by going on Hwy 71 South from Walmart, it is located on the East side...  of the road at the 3rd stop light.

Open at 7:30 am Monday through Saturday and 10 am on Sunday.

Ace Hardware has more than 4,600 stores in 50 states and 70 countries. Each store is independently owned.
  Show More

Lake Park Housing Authority

Lake Park Housing Authority in Lake Park

In 2013 the Lake Park Housing Authority was established to provide assistance to low and moderate income housing. The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors voted to release over $400,000 of TIF monies from two housing development projects to the Lake Park Housing Authority. The housing authorities goal is to preserve the Lake Park housing Stock, en... sure safe housing and give assistance to rehab dwellings in Lake Park, increase owner occupied housing, down payment assistance. Funds of up to $25,000 are available for eligible applicants.  Show More

Boji Toes

Boji Toes in Arnolds Park

If you're visiting the lakes area, and want to be pampered, Boji Toes gives the best pedicures in town! Also offering manicures, from traditional to shellac, as well as waxing, they really take pampering to the next level. I also know that they love to get male clients, and will even offer them a beer! Talk about great service!

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Spirit Lake

We understand the importance of good dental hygiene and oral care and are committed to providing you the best care in a fun, pleasant environment. Using the latest technology, our experienced staff works together as a team to give you exceptional quality treatment from the time you walk in for your initial visit.

Ruthven Meat Locker

Ruthven Meat Locker in Spirit Lake

Ruthven Meat Locker is a local family owned business. Ruthven Locker at the Lakes is their 2nd retail store (with the original Meat Processing plant being a staple in the small town of Ruthven, Iowa). They are a full service meat shop providing their customers with excellent high quality cuts of beef & pork. Also provided are smoked meat snack... s which they make right on site in Ruthven. Sure to please even the pickiest of palates! Ruthven Meat Locker prides themselves on promoting other local small businesses by selling them in our Spirit Lake store. You find everything from fine wood pieces to local honey, microgreens, baked goods, and delicious cheesecake. The Butcher’s Wife is always available to answer your questions and take special orders. Come on in and you’ll soon see that the rumors are true!  Show More

Spirit Lake United Methodist Church

Spirit Lake United Methodist Church in Spirit Lake

Spirit Lake United Methodist Church
1812 Gary Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 8:30 a.m. (Traditional)
Sunday at 10:30 a.m. (Contemporary)

Hibachi 88

Hibachi 88 in Spirit Lake

Hibachi 88 is a great place to enjoy Chinese food and sushi! They have a large dinner menu and also have a separate lunch menu. If you don't feel like going out or cooking at home call for take out there is something for everyone. If you are a sushi fan make sure to try the Boston roll it is one of my favorites!

Haywards Bay

Haywards Bay in West Lake Okoboji

Haywards Bay on West Lake Okoboji boasts low approaches and one of the few areas on West Lake to offer sand beaches. Renowned for the "bay of the flags", you will know you are in Haywards bay because of the all the American flags on the end of the docks. Fishing is great in Haywards Bay and the sunsets are one in a million. To get to Haywards Ba... y by car, one would drive the east side of the lake on Lakeshore Dr.  Show More

 

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Matt Rogers

Cell: 712.330.0604

Aaron Jones

Cell: 234.234.2342

Greg Harvey

Cell: 712.330.1573

Brooke Johnson

Cell: 641.420.2172

Janie Gilmore

Cell: 712.339.0574

Charlie Lewis

Cell: 712.229.9809

Kymm Johnson

Cell: 712.320.6737

The "Real" Estate Blog Homes For Sale

$215,000

Status: Active
1652 Exchange Street #20, Okoboji, IA 51355

  241331

 2

 2

  1,024


Listed by : NEXTHOME AT THE LAKES, BRIDGET JOHNSON (712.336.9999)

$214,900

Status: Active
3215 3rd Street, Spencer, IA 51301

  220978

 2

 1

  1,116


Listed by : NORTHWEST IOWA REALTY, CRISTY JONES (712.580.4692)
Price Adjustment

$214,900

Status: Active
1705 11th Avenue #1705, Spencer, IA 51301

  241301

 2

 1

  1,269


Listed by : CLARKEN REALTORS®, EDITH CLARKEN (712.362.4332) & CLARKEN REALTORS®, MIKE CLARKEN (712.362.4332)

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