Maybe you’re thinking of buying a cabin up here in Northwestern Wisconsin.  And maybe, it could be that using or living in your cabin year-round is part of your long-range plan.

Your plan might be a good one.  But be realistic about whether your cabin is a three-season, 3.5 season, or four-season cabin.  In some cases, insulation upgrades and retrofits can be tough. If you are financing the purchase, lenders can be very specific about the type of cabin they will finance. Generally, they won’t finance a three-season cabin. But talk to your lender about what they can finance.

Be realistic, too, about how big that cabin is.  Even if it’s great for a long weekend, is it really big enough for seven days a week, twelve months a year?  Can even two people live in it without getting cabin fever?  Is there storage room?

Next, think outside the cabin box.  Can a new garage with a shop and extra storage solve those problems?  Can you add on?  (Don’t forget, though, to check your local zoning and waterfront setback regulations.  They could limit your options.)

I’d be glad to help you find a cabin for now—and maybe even for later.  And maybe your current cabin is the best long-term solution.  But if trading up is an even better solution, give me a call.  I can help you sell your current cabin and help you find a lake home that’s just right.

Start your Northwest Wisconsin cabin search at Jean Hedren, Edina Realty: http://www.jeanhedren.com/