Investment Opportunities

Resort Real Estate Investing: Expert Insight, Trusted Results

Resort properties in the Brainerd and Gull Lake regions offer an incredible opportunity for lifestyle enjoyment and long-term investment potential. Whether you’re looking for a cabin, a lakeside condo, or a rental-friendly resort unit, choosing the right property requires local insight and industry expertise.

That’s where The Nicholson Group comes in.

Kristen, Ani, and our team have extensive knowledge and hands-on experience working with resort and investment properties across the Up North market.

We help our clients understand:

Revenue and occupancy trends
Seasonal vs. year-round rental opportunities
Resort-specific rules and rental programs
Property management options
Long-term value and resale potential
Proximity to amenities — especially golf and waterfront access

We don’t just help you buy a property — we help you make a smart investment that fits your goals, lifestyle, and financial future.

Up North Minnesota Resorts & Golfing – Your Guide from The Nicholson Group

Minnesota’s “Up North” lake country is known for its sparkling shorelines, world-class golf, and iconic resorts that have welcomed generations of families. Whether you’re planning a getaway or considering investing in a resort property, The Nicholson Group is here to guide you through the very best this region has to offer.

Below are some of the top resorts in the Brainerd Lakes and Gull Lake area — all with excellent lodging, dining, lake access, and exceptional golfing options.

Grand View Lodge - Nisswa, MN

Grand View Lodge is one of Minnesota’s most celebrated lake resorts, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Situated on beautiful Gull Lake, the resort features exceptional dining, upscale accommodations, and endless activities.
Golfing: Grand View is home to 45 holes of championship golf, including the renowned Pines and Preserve courses. With tree-lined fairways, rolling terrain, and pristine conditioning, it’s one of the premier golf destinations in the Midwest.

Perfect For: Family vacations • Golf getaways • Weddings • Corporate retreats

Lost Lake Lodge – Nisswa, MN

Tucked away in a quiet lakeside setting near Nisswa, Lost Lake Lodge offers a more intimate and all-inclusive resort experience. With two beautiful lake shores, cozy cabins, and a reputation for care-free family vacations, it’s designed for making long-lasting memories.
Golfing: The resort is surrounded by multiple top-tier golf courses within a short drive, giving guests easy access to the area’s best greens without sacrificing relaxation.

Perfect For: Couples • Quiet retreats • Nature lovers • All-inclusive stays

Cragun’s Resort – Brainerd, MN

Located on Gull Lake, Cragun’s Resort strikes a great balance of family-friendly fun and serious golf credentials. With a fullrange of lodging from lakeside cabins to lodge rooms, it’s built for groups, couples, and families alike.
Golfing: Home to the Legacy Courses — 45 holes of championship-level golf, including a newly redesigned 18-hole by PGA Tour pro Tom Lehman. Whether you’re chasing a serious round or just looking to enjoy the scenery with your clubs in hand, Cragun’s delivers.

Perfect For: Golf groups • Families • Large gatherings • Year-round fun

Quarterdeck Resort – Nisswa, MN

Quarterdeck Resort sits on the west shore of Gull Lake and offers a relaxed-but-refined lakeside retreat. With modern lodging, beachfront access, and a playful atmosphere under the motto “#MoreFunOnGull”, it’s geared toward those wanting both comfort and fun.
Golfing: Surrounded by 20+ golf courses in the Gull Chain region, giving guests easy access to some of Minnesota’s best fairways — all just minutes away.

Perfect For: Weekends with friends • Boaters • Social groups • Modern lake vacations

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort – Deerwood, MN

Though slightly off the Gull-Chain axis, Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort remains a standout in the Brainerd Lakes region. It’s known as Minnesota’s original golf resort, offering classic lake resort charm paired with exceptional golf.
Golfing: Features signature courses like Jack’s 18 — winding through hardwood forest and lakes, and Alec’s 9 — ideal for a lighter round or family outing. Ruttger’s is a great pick when you value traditional resort ambiance, strong golf, and a bit more tranquility away from the busiest lake-resort hub.

Perfect For: Classic Minnesota vacations • Multigenerational trips • Golfers who love tradition

Ready to Explore Up North Resort Living or Investment Opportunities?

Whether you're dreaming of a lakeside escape, a golfer’s paradise, or a high-performing rental property, The Nicholson Group is here to guide you every step of the way.