Is a Vacation Home in the Brainerd Lakes Area Worth It? Here’s the Real Story

Ah, the second home dream: cozy evenings by the lake, boat drinks at sunset, kids running barefoot down the dock. Sounds idyllic, right? But before you dive in, let’s get real—is buying a vacation home in the Brainerd Lakes Area actually worth it?

Here’s the honest breakdown:

 

• Rental Potential. With platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, you can offset your mortgage by renting it out during peak weeks. Summer rates here can be hotter than a July afternoon on Gull Lake.
• Family Memories. Think: Fourth of July barbecues, fall colors on the pontoon, ice fishing weekends that turn into legends.
• Appreciation. Lake property here isn’t getting any cheaper. Buy now, and you’re investing in tomorrow’s gold mine. (No, not the old mining town type.)

• Maintenance Costs. Second homes need TLC. From dock repairs to that pesky raccoon who thinks your attic is his Airbnb, expect to budget for upkeep.
• Seasonal Access. Some properties might be trickier to reach in the winter unless you’re rocking a snowmobile or a plow.
• Taxes & Insurance. Uncle Sam and his cousin (the county assessor) always get their cut. Factor in property taxes and second-home insurance premiums.

If you’re ready to create your own lake legacy—and willing to put in a little elbow grease—a Brainerd Lakes vacation home can be a dream come true. Just remember: the best second homes come with a healthy dose of reality, too.

 

Need help finding the perfect property? Let’s grab a coffee (or a virtual one), and I’ll walk you through the best buys—and the biggest pitfalls—to watch for.