Exceptional 10.70-Acre Hobby Farm Bordering State Park

Offered at online-only auction, this remarkable 10.70± acre hobby farm presents a rare and compelling opportunity to acquire a highly versatile country property in an outstanding location just northeast of Faribault, Minnesota. Situated at 8465 170th Street E., Nerstrand, MN 55053, this property combines a spacious and well-maintained five-bedroom home, multiple functional outbuildings, productive pasture ground, and the extraordinary advantage of directly bordering Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Properties offering this level of privacy, functionality, and natural beauty—while remaining within convenient reach of town—are seldom available, especially through a competitive auction format.

Online Auction Details

Bidding for this property will be conducted entirely online, allowing buyers the flexibility to participate from anywhere.

Bidding Opens: Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 8:00 AM
Bidding Starts Closing: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 4:00 PM

To allow prospective buyers ample opportunity to inspect the property in person, several open house dates have been scheduled:

Saturday, January 17, 2026: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Thursday, January 22, 2026: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Monday, January 26, 2026: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

These open houses provide a valuable chance to fully appreciate the home, land, outbuildings, and the surrounding natural setting prior to bidding.

A Rare Setting Backing to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

One of the most exceptional features of this property is its direct border with Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, a treasured natural area known for its old-growth hardwood forests, scenic trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. This adjacency provides breathtaking views, unmatched privacy, and immediate access to miles of hiking trails and outdoor recreation. For nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who value a peaceful rural environment, this setting is truly extraordinary.

Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, turkeys, birds, and other native species frequenting the area. The park boundary also ensures long-term protection of the neighboring land, preserving the natural landscape and preventing future development behind the property. This creates a sense of permanence and serenity that significantly enhances both enjoyment and long-term value.

Spacious and Flexible 5-Bedroom Country Home

Originally built in 1953 and thoughtfully updated over the years, the two-story country home offers more than 4,600 total square feet, including 2,816+ square feet of finished living space. Designed with flexibility in mind, the home features both a main residence and a separate live-in suite, making it ideal for multi-generational living, extended family, guests, or potential rental use.

Main Residence

The main portion of the home offers a warm and inviting layout that blends classic country charm with modern updates. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area creates a natural gathering space, enhanced by beautiful Asian Walnut hardwood floors that add warmth and character. The spacious kitchen provides abundant cabinetry and storage, making it well-suited for daily living as well as entertaining.

A main-floor laundry and mudroom add practicality, especially for country living, while the main-floor bathroom features a dual vanity and tiled shower for comfort and convenience. Upstairs, the home offers four generously sized bedrooms, all finished with durable and stylish luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, along with a convenient half bathroom. This layout provides ample space for family, guests, or home office needs.

Live-In Suite

The separate live-in suite is a standout feature, offering a level of independence and versatility rarely found in rural properties. This space includes an updated open kitchen with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, creating a modern and functional environment. The living room is highlighted by a wood-burning fireplace with a stone surround, adding both ambiance and warmth.

Narrow oak hardwood flooring enhances the character of the suite, while a main-level full bathroom with a large linen closet adds storage and convenience. The finished basement expands the living area further, featuring a 15′ x 14′ primary bedroom suite with a walk-in shower, along with LVP flooring throughout the basement living space. The option for a separate entrance allows for privacy between the suite and the main home, making this an ideal arrangement for extended family or guests.

Mechanical and Utility Updates

This property has seen significant investment in mechanical systems and utilities, offering peace of mind to future owners. Key updates include a conforming mound septic system installed in 2022, ensuring modern compliance and reliability. The home is heated by a Slant/Fin CHS-110 on-demand boiler system (2017), paired with a 115-gallon electric hot water heater (2017) to support the home’s size and usage needs.

Additional updates include a new pressure tank installed in 2024, fiber optic internet service for modern connectivity, and a water softener system with 15 GPM service flow. Electrical service is robust with 200-amp service, and the property includes a septic pump alarm for added protection. Electric service is provided by Steele–Waseca Cooperative, known for reliability in rural areas.

Extensive Outbuildings, Barns, and Workshop Space

The property is exceptionally well-equipped for hobby farming, livestock, storage, and workshop needs. A 68′ x 36′ two-story barn with milk house anchors the farmstead. This barn includes an on-demand hot water heater, water softener, and an LB White hanging heater, and is currently set up for milking two dairy cows. It remains in solid, usable condition and can be adapted for a variety of agricultural or storage purposes.

A 24′ x 15′ granary, remodeled for workshop or hobby use, adds further versatility. This building features in-floor heat in the basement, insulation, sheetrock, and both water and electrical service—making it suitable for year-round use. Additional structures include a 32′ x 28′ detached garage with two overhead doors, a 64′ x 32′ equipment pole shed with sliding door, and a 56′ x 32′ pole shed that is in need of updates and repairs, offering additional potential for the next owner.

Land, Pasture, and Rural Lifestyle

Approximately 5± acres of the property are in pasture, making it suitable for livestock, hay production, or small-scale crop use. The remaining acreage includes the homesite, outbuildings, and land that transitions seamlessly into the adjoining state park. This blend of usable agricultural land and natural surroundings makes the property especially appealing to hobby farmers, homesteaders, and those seeking a balanced rural lifestyle.

The location northeast of Faribault provides the best of both worlds: peaceful country living with convenient access to town amenities, services, and major roadways. Whether your goal is farming, outdoor recreation, or simply enjoying a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, this property delivers exceptional flexibility.

Additional Property Information and Auction Terms

2025 Property Taxes: $3,718
Legal Description: Part of the North Half of Section 17, Wheeling Township, Rice County, MN

Auction Terms: A $10,000 earnest money deposit is required and is non-refundable if the buyer fails to close. The remaining balance is due in full on or before March 10, 2026, at which time the buyer will receive possession and clear marketable title. The property is selling in AS-IS condition, with no warranties or guarantees expressed or implied, and no contingencies whatsoever. All real estate taxes payable in 2026 will be prorated to the date of closing. All bidders must have financing arranged prior to the auction.

A Truly Unique Opportunity

This online auction represents a rare chance to purchase a well-rounded country property offering space to live, work, and farm—set against the backdrop of one of Minnesota’s most beautiful state parks. Whether you are seeking a hobby farm, a multi-generational living arrangement, or a peaceful rural retreat with unmatched natural surroundings, this 10.70-acre property stands out as a truly special offering.