Today, we explore Okoboji, a remarkable area in Iowa's Great Lakes region. Here, we'll explore the heart of what makes this place so special. From the sunning natural beauty and lively community events to the rich arts scene and outdoor adventures, Okoboji offers a blend of peace with access to everything you need. Join us to uncover the many reasons why calling Okoboji home might just be your next great adventure.

Iowa's Hidden Gem - Okoboji

Located in the northwest corner of Iowa, Okoboji is an incredible little town known for its stunning chain of glacial lakes. Beyond the beauty of these natural landmarks, the welcoming spirit of the community that lives here is another major reason people relocate here. Each lake offers its own unique charm,…

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Fun-Filled Activities for Families

Okoboji is often recognized as a popular vacation town in Iowa, but it is more than that. It is a great place for children to play outdoors, explore new places, and learn. Each year, many parents with young children move to the Okoboji area, and they will find that this community has much to offer them.

If you have children, here are five kid-friendly places near Okoboji you should consider visiting.

Kid-Friendly Activities Around Okoboji, IA

Arnolds Park Amusement Park

For over a hundred years, Arnolds Park Amusement Park has been entertaining children of all ages. This popular amusement park can be found on Lake Street just across the bridge from Okoboji. The park is home to 26 rides, one of which is…

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Relocating to Okoboji, Iowa?

Moving to Okoboji marks an exciting start to the next chapter of your life. Okoboji is a popular vacation destination in Iowa, and for good reason. The natural beauty of the area is stunning. The town is home to a great collection of local businesses and restaurants, and there are plenty of recreation options well worth exploring.

Once you finish unpacking your boxes and settling into your new Okoboji home, here are five things you need to do.

Explore West Okoboji Lake

For many residents of Okoboji, life on the lake is what it is all about. Nothing is more relaxing than a day spent on the lake, escaping the heat of an exceptional summer day.

West Okoboji Lake is part of a series of lakes known as the Iowa Great…

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Incredible Okoboji Condos For Sale

Condos for sale in Okoboji are a great option for all kinds of buyers. Whether you are a first-time buyer who appreciates the affordability of this market, a retiree who loves to golf, or you have a family and appreciate the great recreation opportunities, there are plenty of reasons to move to Okoboji.

Especially if this is your first condo purchase, there are a few things that you will need to consider. Here is our Okoboji condo buyer’s guide.

Is Condo Living Right For Me?

Ownership

Condo ownership isn’t the same as homeownership. In some ways, owning a home is pretty straightforward. When you buy the property, you own the land and all of the structures upon it. When you invest in a condo, this is not…

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6 Things To Do in Autumn in Okoboji

Spending autumn in the Okoboji area is one of the most wonderful experiences you can have in this truly stunning part of Iowa. It's the perfect time of year, when the heat and bugs of summer have been toned down, along with the crowds that are synonymous with the state's top vacation destination. Fall in Okoboji represents the idyllic window of time between the blistering months of summer and the chilly months of winter, both of which also offer unique and appealing draws to the region. However, it's easy to see why autumn is a favorite among those who call Okoboji their seasonal home. Scenic, temperate, comfortable, cozy, and full of festive glow, this time of year is rich with activities and you're bound to make fabulous memories that will last a…

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how to prepare your home for vacation rentals

As companies like Airbnb become increasingly more popular and the cost of living continues to increase, it is tempting for homeowners to consider using their property as a short-term vacation rental. Depending on your location, your lifestyle, and your property, renting your home could be a great way to make a bit of extra cash.

However, renting your home out for the weekend isn’t as simple as creating a profile on Airbnb. You will need to properly prepare your space and be willing to accommodate the needs of your guests where possible.

Here are some considerations before you start to rent your home out.

Consider Your Space

Depending on whether you live in an apartment, a condo, a full-sized house, or on an acreage, your home will look…

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how to choose a realtor

Your house is more than a building. It’s a home where you have formed many precious memories. For most people, it is also their single biggest asset. When it comes time to sell your home in Okoboji, it is important that you find the right realtor to help you. You want to work with someone who not only understands how important your home sale is to you, you want someone who is a leading expert in their field.

When it comes time to choose an Okoboji listing agent, you might find yourself overwhelmed. There are dozens of real estate agencies to choose from. How do you distinguish which agent will be able to help you sell your home for the highest price and the shortest period of time?

Here are some tips on how to choose a Realtor to sell your home…

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popular summer events in okoboji

The Iowa Great Lakes region is an ideal place to spend your summer, a calm and family-friendly enclave where there is always plenty to do. Locals are truly year-round adventurers, taking advantage of the rich landscapes and culture throughout every single season. The area is bursting with a variety of classic attractions, events, and festivities that truly embody the local atmosphere. If you're considering moving here, it's a smart idea to get a taste of what the region an offer. Here are some of the most anticipated events coming up in the Iowa Great Lakes Region!

The 61st Season of Okoboji Summer Theatre

Hosted by Stephens College, the 61st Season of Okoboji Summer Theatre shows that this summer tradition was built to last and is a true…

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Summer home staging tips for Okoboji homes

Staging your home can seem like a frivolous part of an otherwise demanding selling or rental process. But don't underestimate the effects of this seemingly simple undertaking. Whether you're planning to sell your home or find the perfect tenant to rent it out to, staging is a crucial step in getting the most out of your home. Proper staging can not only increase the appeal and value of your property, it can help you find a tenant or buyer that's a perfect fit for your home. If you're not sure how to begin staging a home this summer, the experts at Hoien Realty can help. Here are our top tips for creating an amazing staged home this summer.

Start Outside

When you think of home staging, its easy to get caught up in the idea of interior design. But…

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tax benefits of vacation homes

Okoboji is the perfect place to invest in a vacation home. Billed as "Iowa's greatest vacation destination", this is a land of dramatic formerly glaciated landscapes, lush green meadows, and pristine lakefront property. On any given day in the warmer months, you can go water skiing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, or boating. There is also amazing hiking and mountain biking. In the winter, you can ski, skate, and snowshoe. It's truly a year-round paradise. But apart from the recreational and luxury advantages of owning a vacation home, there are great tax benefits too. If you're not familiar with these read on to find out whether you might qualify.

1. Home Improvement

If your second home needs renovation work, you can deduct interest on a home…

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