Woods to Water Blog - Colton Maher's Blog

Manhattan Point on the Whitefish Chain

A one-stop-shop success story

At Woods to Water, we pride ourselves on being more than just a real estate company. We’re a partner at every step of the journey, helping our clients find, design, and manage properties that go beyond a home—they become memories, investments, and opportunities. Manhattan Point is a perfect example of how our one-stop-shop approach brings big dreams to life.


Photo by Jon Kreye

From Purchase to Possibility

When the owners of Manhattan Point set out to find their ideal property, they knew they needed a partner who understood the unique dynamics of the Brainerd Lakes Area. With the help of a Woods to Water real estate agent, Paul Augustinack, they found a newly built home…

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Modern living in the BLA.

Pequot Lakes has always been a go-to destination for those who love the beauty of the Brainerd Lakes Area. It's also soon-to-be home to Trailside Estates — a thoughtfully designed new construction community that combines modern living with the charm and recreation opportunities that make this region so special. Whether you’re dreaming of a new cozy spot to call home or seeking the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, Trailside Estates delivers on every front.


A Home That Works for Your Lifestyle

New construction means starting fresh—with no surprises. At Trailside Estates, every home is crafted with high-quality materials and today’s most sought-after features, including:

  • Custom Kitchens: Granite…

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Winter in northern Minnesota isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace it, the season is nothing short of magical. It’s the backdrop for some of the most unique, exciting, and downright quirky events of the year. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s always something happening to help you celebrate the coldest season in true "up north" style.

Ice Fest 2025

Jan 4th - 5th | Breezy point, mn

Fun all weekend long! A winter market, bags tournament, ice skating, bonfire and smores, hayrides, live music + more! Visit their Facebook page for all the details.

Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous

Jan 16th - 18th | HOLE IN THE DAY BAY, GULL LAKE, MN

Starting at Trailside Park in Pequot Lakes — antique and vintage snowmobile show,…

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We're feeling merry & bright. 

There's no shortage of Christmas events this year in the Brainerd Lakes — head out and get into the spirit for the best time of year! 

Nisswa City of Lights

November 29th | DOWNTOWN NISSWA, MN

11:00am — Food Vendors open on Main Street near the Chamber

3:30pm — Main Street closes (no parking!) – Big Axe Brewery to Main Street Ale House

3:30pm — Polar Express Storytelling (limited seating) - Caboose (across the street from Pioneer Village)

4pm — Bonfires will be lit along the Paul Bunyan Trail

4pm — Blinky Lights for sale on Main Street

4-5pm — Wadena/CLC Community Bands Brass Ensemble - RW Jewelers Patio

4pm — Polar Express Storytelling (limited seating) - Caboose (across the street from…

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Nisswa City of Lights

Friday, November 29th, 2024 | Nisswa, Minn. 

It's time for one of the best events of the year! (at least we think so). Check out the schedule for this year's Nisswa City of Lights Celebration and head out to Nisswa on November 29th! 



Schedule courtesy of Nisswa Chamber of Commerce and is subject to change. 

11:00am — Food Vendors open on Main Street near the Chamber

3:30pm — Main Street closes (no parking!) – Big Axe Brewery to Main Street Ale House

3:30pm — Polar Express Storytelling (limited seating) - Caboose (across the street from Pioneer Village)

4pm — Bonfires will be lit along the Paul Bunyan Trail

4pm — Blinky Lights for sale on Main Street

4-5pm — Wadena/CLC Community Bands Brass Ensemble…

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Fall muskies in the North Country

FINALLY FALL: The best time of year for the outdoorsman. 

Leaves are at full color, hunting seasons are open, fall fishing, and fall festivities are well under way! Most hunting seasons have opened up in September such as archery deer, waterfowl, and grouse! Despite the warmer temps most hunters are still finding success. Outdoorsmen wait all year for these few quick months we get!

Hunting the cold fronts has been the ticket early this fall when we got them. I try to target big temp swings and higher pressure days. Moon phases also play a huge role for movement to be seen. With gun season approaching make sure to check those stands and get those guns sighted in. The rut is near!

SUCCESS STORY: 

I was…

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In the Brainerd Lakes Area, our local farms aren’t just about producing food—they play a vital role in strengthening and sustaining the community. Buying local doesn’t just mean fresher produce and better flavor; it means investing in the people who make northern Minnesota thrive. And whether you’re picking up veggies at the farmer’s market, signing up for a CSA, or heading out to a U-pick farm, there are so many ways to access this homegrown goodness.

Why Buy Local?

When you buy from local farms, you’re not only enjoying the freshest fruits, vegetables, and meats, but you’re also supporting sustainability, boosting the local economy, and keeping family farms alive. These farms use eco-friendly methods and focus on producing food…

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Kyle Narveson, Realtor®

In the Brainerd Lakes Area, new construction offers an opportunity to create a home designed for modern living while also being a solid long-term investment. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence or a vacation property, building new comes with several advantages that make it a smart choice in today’s real estate market.

Customization to Fit Your Lifestyle

One of the biggest perks of new construction is the ability to design a home that works for your specific needs. Instead of adapting an older property to fit your vision, you start with a blank slate. Whether you need space for hosting gatherings or a practical layout for everyday living, building new allows you to customize everything from the floor plan to…

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ACBS Vintage Boat Week and International Show

SEPT 11 - SEPT 14 | BAR HARBOR SUPPER CLUB, NISSwa, MN
The Antique & Classic Boat Society's International Boat Show will return to Gull Lake September 8-15, 2024. The 49th edition of this renowned gathering is themed "Woods And Water II" and will again be situated at the famous Bar Harbor Supper Club in Lake Shore, Minnesota. The ACBS International Boat Show consistently draws some of the top vintage boats in the world. The opportunity to see over 100 of the finest boats on the planet assembled in one place will make this an extraordinary show! Don't miss it. See the event page for details. 

Cheers to 3 years - Anniversary Party at MN Traders Co.

SEPT 14 | MN…

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Content by Isaiah Moengen, Realtor®

Dreaming of owning a home?

Whether it’s a lake home, a cozy cabin in the woods, or somewhere inbetween — many of us dream of homeownership. With the right resources and guidance, turning that dream into reality is more achievable than you might think! In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to make homeownership a reality, starting with the most crucial first step: the buyer consultation. This meeting with your real estate agent is your chance to lay the groundwork for your home search and ensure you’re on the right path.

1. Understanding the Buyer Consultation

What is a Buyer Consultation?

A buyer consultation is the initial meeting between you and your Realtor. During this session,…

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