The Mortensens' home in Inver Grove Heights was Party Central by design.
"We were the house the kids came to," said Nicolle Mortensen. With its indoor pool, lighted outdoor sport court, theater and a playroom under the garage, the home was a magnet for the Mortensens' five children's friends and various sports teammates.
And as founders of Anytime Fitness, Nicolle and her, husband, Dave, also hosted large business and social gatherings in their home.
With two staircases, two kitchens and six bathrooms, the 10,368-square-foot house could comfortably handle even big parties. "Traffic flowed so smoothly," said Dave.
"We've had close to 100 people and never felt crowded," said Nicolle.
The 2005-built house, set on 2.5 acres just a few miles from the Vikings new training facility in Eagan, was big when the Mortensens bought it in 2008. They made it bigger, finishing the expansive lower level to add the theater, a pub-style bar, a second kitchen and dining area, a sitting area with fireplace and a 400-bottle wine cellar with a Tuscan-inspired tasting room.
"It was designed for multiple experiences," said Dave. "Our goal was to have [guests] feel like it's home."
Now that their children are older, the Mortensens have built a new home on more acreage in Afton. Their five-bedroom house in Inver Grove Heights is for sale for $1.445 million.
And to sweeten the deal, they're throwing in a car — a 1996 white Corvette C4 coupe with removable roof and 36,000 actual miles. It's parked in one of the seven garage stalls waiting for its new owner.
"We have so many great memories," said Nicolle of their time in the house. "It's a home for families who love to be together and to share time with other people."
Kathy and Lisa Madore of Edina Realty, 651-592-4444 or 651-216-1335, have the listing.
Kim Palmer • 612-673-4784
@stribkimpalmer
