Home inspection in Oak Park Heights.

What we see in Oak Park Heights homes.

Oak Park was first platted on May 27, 1857, by John Parker, William Dorr and others, with lumber, a riverfront sawmill and a barrel company driving the early economy. Highway 36 was cut through in the 1930s, dividing the community, and the area was re-platted and renamed Oak Park Heights in 1938 before incorporating in 1959. The St. Croix Mall arrived in 1960, and residential development has since spread south of Highway 36. The city covers 3.34 square miles, with 4,849 residents and 2,422 housing units in 2020 and a median age of 53.5. Highways 36 and 95 are the main routes.

Three eras of housing mean three kinds of inspection. Houses in the original plat are the oldest, so foundations, basement moisture, older wiring and panels, original sewer lines, windows and chimneys deserve attention. Mid-century houses near the commercial corridor get the same attention, plus roofs, attic insulation and ventilation. Newer townhomes and single-family homes get a hard look at flashing, decks, grading, mechanical installation and ventilation. With a median age above 50, stairs, railings, bathroom safety features and other items that matter for long-term ownership are also worth noting.

Local facts checked September 2026 against: Wikipedia, wchsmn.org.