Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Have Any Homes for Relocating Families?

Yes, we do.

If you are thinking of relocating to the northeast region of Minnesota for one of the new good paying jobs in the mining industry; our communities are ready to welcome you.

There are home ownership opportunities available in most of our towns and cities. Some of our older housing stock was built in the late 70's and although basically sound, may need some updates. Other newer homes in subdivision developments may meet your needs without any remodeling. Our market prices may seem more affordable if you are moving from metro areas. Our mortgage lenders are competent and accommodating. This is good; it will allow you to establish home ownership equity more quickly.

There is a strong network of Real Estate agencies and you can link to the most up-to-date MLS listing information directly from this website.

Where Should We Begin Looking?

Perhaps you should start close to where your job opportunity is located.

Don’t be afraid to seek housing options in our small communities.

Many of these communities are quiet, safe neighborhoods with convenience stores and hometown restaurants. No matter which small town you choose, you are still only minutes from all the bigger “city services” strategically located in Virginia, Hibbing and Grand Rapids.

We are really one “regional housing” neighborhood with comprehensive medical care hospitals and clinics; quality primary, secondary and post-secondary education facilities; both name-brand regional shopping centers and unique local shops; lakes, woods, parks and other natural resource recreation areas; and many diverse cultural opportunities are easily accessible to your family.

Every one of our 31 cities has their own personality and amenities. Take a drive to our area and visit with local people. You will find a healthy community that fits your family and a house to call “home”.

Are There Any Jobs in the Housing Industry?

There are jobs with local contractors, and there is room for new companies to provide services.

Contractors, developers, and skilled trades people are needed in northeast Minnesota. As homes are vacated by aging seniors seeking assisted housing options; rehab services are needed to ready these homes for new young families relocating for jobs in our region. Creative, skilled entrepreneurial workers do recognize the potential and will seize the opportunity.

Several funding resources for rehabilitation projects are being developed. Please explore some of the opportunities by linking to the University of Minnesota Small Business Service Centers website.

Are There Large Tracts of Land Available for Development?

The entire northeast region has been carefully assessed by the Arrowhead Regional Development Council and parcels of development land have been identified in both St. Louis County and Itasca County communities.

Most of the development land has infrastructure extension possibilities. Some of the current land parcels suitable for development are tax-forfeited, owned by government entities or by private parties. Serious developers can receive assistance in grouping parcels and exploring local development resources from the Range Readiness Housing Expeditor Team. Contact information available on this website.

A comprehensive dynamic Housing Study is available to demonstrate demographic and economic impacts on potential development and specific housing expansion needs identified. After reviewing the summary on this website, you can submit a request for the full study. A special free housing report meeting is scheduled for June 24, 2008 and there is still time to register.

Specific map information is also available by linking to the ARDC website, the Itasca County HRA website, and the St. Louis County Development Center website.