A clear look at two of the most anticipated luxury communities in the northern suburbs—written by a $200M+ producer and local expert in land, luxury, and lakefront real estate.

If you’ve been watching the Ham Lake market, you’ve likely heard the buzz around Elwell Farms and Hidden Forest. These two communities stand out not just for their size and scenery, but for something increasingly rare in the Twin Cities: true acreage living, thoughtful design, and high-end custom homes—all within reach of the metro.

As someone who has worked the northern suburbs for years, with over $200M in sales, 200+ transactions, and multiple recent luxury and waterfront deals, I can tell you these developments mark a major shift in Ham Lake’s long-term appeal.

Here’s what buyers should know.

Elwell Farms: 515 Acres of Conservation-Focused Luxury Living

Elwell Farms spans roughly 515 acres in southeast Ham Lake and brings together open fields, mature trees, and a conservation-first design approach rarely seen in modern developments.

Key Highlights

• 106 custom homesites, many 1+ acres

• Top-tier luxury builders: Gonyea Custom Homes, NIH Homes, Hanson Builders, Stonegate Builders

• Planned 40-acre lake, walking trails, fishing pier, pickleball courts, pavilion, and community green spaces

• Restored wetlands, prairie buffers, and significant preserved open space

• Historic roots, named after James T. Elwell, an early Anoka County figure

• Projected home prices starting around $1.5M depending on location, lot size, and finishes

Why Elwell Farms Matters

Elwell Farms offers a rare blend of acreage, custom building, and community amenities—something high-end buyers have been asking for, but haven’t been able to find at this scale. This is acreage living without sacrificing neighborhood feel or connection to the metro.

It’s truly a legacy community in the making.

Hidden Forest: Wooded Luxury on 1–9 Acre Estate Lots

Hidden Forest is built for buyers who want privacy, natural beauty, and architectural quality. Many lots back up to the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area, giving homeowners genuine seclusion and nature views.

Key Highlights

• Lot sizes 1 to 9+ acres

• Heavily wooded with strong privacy buffers

• Proximity to Carlos Avery WMA

• Custom homes from roughly $1.1M to $4M+

• Paved roads, private wells, septic systems

• Access to the Blaine / Anoka-Hennepin School District

• Showpiece models from TJB Homes, including luxury sport courts, large garages, and high-end finish packages

• Parade of Homes models featuring 4,600+ sq ft, pools, acreage, and modern architectural styles

Why Hidden Forest Matters

Hidden Forest is ideal for buyers seeking a nature-driven retreat without giving up proximity to Blaine, shopping, golf, and schools. Estate lots of this size and quality rarely come to market in the north metro.

Why These Communities Stand Out in Today’s Market

1. Space & Privacy

Large lots, natural buffers, and wooded surroundings—luxury buyers want space, and these communities deliver.

2. Long-Term Value

Custom homes, premier builders, and thoughtfully designed developments appreciate differently than standard subdivisions.

3. Nature & Conservation

Elwell Farms protects wetlands and open space; Hidden Forest backs up to wildlife areas. These aren’t “clear the land and build” developments—they respect the landscape.

4. Location Without Compromise

Ham Lake offers the “quiet acreage lifestyle” while keeping access to the metro’s amenities, schools, and recreation.

My Take as a Northern Suburbs Luxury Specialist

I work with a lot of luxury buyers and families moving to the north metro for:

• privacy

• acreage

• schools

• nature

• and quality construction

Elwell Farms and Hidden Forest check these boxes in ways that few developments do. For clients considering a custom build or exploring long-term value, both communities deserve serious attention.

If you want insight into builder selection, lot strategy, resale considerations, or timing, I’d be honored to walk you through the options. My role is to help you make a decision with clarity, confidence, and long-term vision.

We row together.

Ornell Group Real Estate | Tim Ornell

Tim Ornell | Real Luxury | Ornell Group Real Estate
Northern Suburbs Luxury, Land & Waterfront Specialist
$200M+ Closed Sales | 200+ Transactions
Real Luxury Division (Earned Through Luxury Sales Performance)
Institute for Luxury Home Marketing – GUILD Certified
[email protected] | ornellgroup.com

Content and insights provided by Ornell Group. Real estate services brokered by Real Broker. All market data, pricing, and property information subject to change. Select content refined through AI-assisted tools to enhance clarity and value.