Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Lakeside homes along North Arm Bay, with Forest Lake, the West Arm and Crystal Bay all nearby. North Arm is water in every direction.
The North Arm neighborhood sits along North Arm Drive on North Arm Bay in west Orono, with lake-side homes and views.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.
What’s close by
North Arm Bay, Forest Lake, the West Arm and Crystal Bay are all close for boating and paddling. Noerenberg Memorial County Park’s gardens, Woodhill Country Club (a certified Audubon sanctuary), Long Lake and Colonial Square in Wayzata are short drives. See Orono parks and trails.
What buyers check before they tour
- Schools: North Arm is served by Orono Public Schools (ISD 278), whose schools share a campus along Old Crystal Bay Road, including Schumann Elementary, Orono Intermediate, Orono Middle and Orono High School. Boundaries can change, so confirm the assigned schools for any address with the district.
- Lakeshore: Ask about frontage, dock rights and Lake Minnetonka Conservation District rules, and check the property on FEMA’s flood map. Get an insurance quote early.
- Well and septic: Many Orono homes use private wells and septic systems. Plan a well test and septic inspection where they apply.
- Condition: Roof, windows, mechanicals and drainage tell you more about a home’s next ten years than the paint color does. Plan a professional inspection.
A simple plan for your North Arm move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes around Lake Minnetonka for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.
Getting the house ready, or making it yours
If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Learn more about Orono, its parks and trails and community life, or see nearby Lakeview.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Your next step in North Arm
Homes around Lake Minnetonka are priced lot by lot. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.
Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in North Arm.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Orono homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
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I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.
