Northern Michigan: The Emerging Market for Savvy Real Estate Investors

April 11, 2025

Northern Michigan is gaining attention—not just for its natural beauty and lakefront living, but as a smart place to invest. In 2025, real estate investment trends are turning toward regions that offer value, long-term appreciation, and lifestyle appeal. Northern Michigan checks all those boxes.

From quaint coastal towns to quiet inland villages, this region is evolving into a compelling market for both new and experienced investors. If you're looking to diversify your portfolio or purchase income-generating properties, now is the time to pay close attention to Northern Michigan real estate.

Here’s why more investors are making moves in this promising part of the state—and how you can do the same.

Why Northern Michigan Is on the Radar

The landscape of real estate investing is shifting. As urban areas experience price saturation and increased competition, investors are expanding their scope. Secondary markets, particularly those with vacation appeal and limited housing supply, are now at the forefront of strategic acquisitions.

So, what makes Northern Michigan stand out?

  • Tourism-Driven Demand: With four-season appeal and popular destinations like Traverse City, Leland, Charlevoix, and Petoskey, vacation rentals see steady demand throughout the year.
  • Lifestyle Migration: More buyers are leaving large cities for small towns where they can enjoy a slower pace of life—especially with the flexibility of remote work.
  • Inventory and Value: While prices have increased, Northern Michigan real estate still offers better value per square foot compared to other lakefront markets.

The convergence of lifestyle, affordability, and increasing interest makes this region ideal for long-term growth.

Real Estate Investment Trends 2025: A Shift to Quality and Location

Real estate investment trends in 2025 highlight a growing preference for properties that are both personally usable and income-producing. Investors are searching for assets they can rent out seasonally or year-round, and later repurpose for personal use or resale. Northern Michigan fits this model perfectly.

Buyers are now seeking:

  • Short-Term Rental Homes: Cottages, condos, and lake houses with strong seasonal appeal.
  • Multi-Use Properties: Homes with guest suites, accessory dwelling units, or space for home offices.
  • Undervalued Parcels: Land that can be developed or held long-term.

On the other hand, investors are increasingly avoiding over-leveraged city markets in favor of sustainable growth and manageable holding costs. This makes Northern Michigan real estate investment an increasingly attractive choice.

Towns to Watch in Northern Michigan

While there are many communities with potential, several towns are emerging as standout options for investment. These areas combine charm, demand, and growth potential—key ingredients for smart investing.

Leland

Leland offers a rare combination of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities. It’s especially attractive for investors interested in vacation rental income. Homes close to Lake Leelanau or downtown Fishtown district perform well, especially during the summer months. Low inventory means demand is consistently high.

Suttons Bay

This walkable village along Grand Traverse Bay has seen growing interest from buyers looking for income properties. With restaurants, wineries, and waterfront parks, Suttons Bay caters to both year-round residents and weekend travelers.

Traverse City

Traverse City continues to lead the region in growth and development. While prices are higher, the year-round rental demand and diverse property types—condos, single-family homes, and new construction—make it ideal for those seeking strong returns.

Glen Arbor and Empire

For investors focused on short-term rentals, these towns near Sleeping Bear Dunes offer consistent tourist traffic and scenic surroundings. Properties near the lakeshore or within walking distance to town are especially desirable.


Investment Property Types in Demand

The Northern Michigan real estate market supports a variety of investment strategies. Depending on your goals, you’ll find several viable paths to explore.

Popular options include:

  • Single-Family Homes: Ideal for short-term vacation rentals or long-term tenants.
  • Cottages and Cabins: Often more affordable and in high demand during summer and fall.
  • Duplexes and Multi-Units: Perfect for steady monthly income.
  • Land or Fixer-Uppers: Long-term value with renovation or development upside.

Savvy investors are also using 1031 exchanges to roll gains from other markets into Northern Michigan real estate. The relative affordability and lifestyle upside of these properties make them an attractive replacement option.


Navigating Local Regulations

Before purchasing a short-term rental or development lot, it’s critical to understand local zoning and permitting requirements. Some municipalities in Northern Michigan have enacted rules around vacation rentals, while others remain flexible. Working with a local real estate team gives you a major advantage here.

They can help you with:

  • Interpreting township-specific ordinances
  • Identifying grandfathered rental properties
  • Avoiding restricted zones or seasonal-use limitations
  • Recommending professional contacts for permits and inspections

Make sure you have a clear understanding of use restrictions before committing to a purchase.


Long-Term Outlook for Northern Michigan Real Estate Investment

What’s the long-term potential of this market? Investors watching real estate investment trends in 2025 should take note: Northern Michigan is well-positioned for future appreciation.

Factors driving long-term value include:

  • Scarcity of Buildable Land: Especially near shorelines and downtown districts
  • Generational Appeal: Families often keep property in the area for decades, reducing turnover
  • Lifestyle-Driven Value: Homes here are not just assets—they’re destinations

As infrastructure improves and tourism continues to thrive, appreciation is expected to outpace many other Midwestern markets. If you're considering a Northern Michigan real estate investment, this is a prime window to secure properties before demand pushes values even higher.


Reach Out to Leelanau Living Realty Group

Investing in Northern Michigan is more than a financial decision—it’s a strategic move with long-term lifestyle and equity rewards. Whether you're eyeing a short-term rental, looking for land to build, or ready to expand your portfolio into a promising market, Leelanau Living Realty Group is the partner you need.

With years of experience in the local market and a commitment to client success, the team can help you identify hidden opportunities and avoid costly missteps. Reach out to Leelanau Living Realty Group today to explore available properties and take your next step in Northern Michigan real estate investment.

A brown leather couch is sitting in a living room next to a plant.

Best Home Decor and Furniture Stores Near Leland, MI

By Spotzer Spotzer • April 11, 2025
Leland, MI, is a picturesque town that pairs timeless charm with stylish living. For homeowners and buyers looking to enhance their properties, knowing where to shop for quality furniture and distinctive home decor is essential. Whether you're furnishing a lakefront home, remodeling an investment property, or simply adding finishing touches, the Leland area is filled with exceptional stores that offer everything from custom-built furniture to curated lifestyle accents. This guide highlights the best places near Leland where you can find furniture and decor pieces that elevate any interior. As you explore these stores, you'll find options for every aesthetic—whether you’re drawn to modern minimalism, coastal chic, or rustic comfort. The Find North : Curated Lifestyle and Home Goods Right in the heart of Leland, The Find North is more than just a local store—it’s a reflection of the lifestyle that draws people to this beautiful area. Located within the Harbor Shops on North Lake Street, this well-loved boutique brings together a carefully chosen mix of home goods, decor, gifts, and apparel. It’s a convenient stop for both locals and new homeowners wanting to infuse their space with a touch of Leland character. The Find North offers seasonal items, kitchenware, throw blankets, and accessories that perfectly suit the relaxed yet stylish atmosphere of Northern Michigan living. Their products also make thoughtful gifts for housewarming or welcoming guests. If you're furnishing a second home or updating a short-term rental, The Find North offers tasteful pieces that add warmth and character without overpowering the space. Edward’s Home Furnishings : Quality and Service in Suttons Bay Just 20 minutes from Leland, Edward’s Home Furnishings in Suttons Bay is a trusted name in Northern Michigan. This family-run business has been helping homeowners furnish their spaces since 1983. With a reputation for personalized service and high-quality furnishings, Edward’s is the kind of store where you can expect expert guidance along with a wide selection of trusted brands. Their showroom features living room, bedroom, and dining room sets in various styles, from timeless traditional to comfortable transitional. They also carry a range of mattresses, lighting fixtures, and accessories that can bring cohesion to your home’s design. In addition, Edward’s offers custom ordering, which means you can tailor pieces to fit your room’s dimensions or preferred palette. If you’re staging a home for sale or moving into a new property, this store provides both the essentials and the unique touches that make a home stand out. Underbark Furniture Workshop : Custom Creations in Maple City Located just south of Leland in Maple City, Underbark Furniture Workshop offers something truly special—bespoke furniture handcrafted to order. Owner Peter Marsh has been designing and building custom pieces for over 40 years, and his workshop is a go-to for homeowners looking to bring a vision to life. Underbark’s offerings include dining tables, bed frames, cabinets, and more—all made using solid hardwoods like cherry, walnut, and maple. What makes this shop stand out is the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each project. If you’ve ever struggled to find a piece that fits your room just right, this is the place to visit. The team works closely with clients to create items that meet exact measurements, material preferences, and style goals. Whether you're designing your dream home or enhancing a rental property, Underbark offers the quality and customization to make your space shine. Home Again Decor : Amish-Made and Reclaimed Furniture Home Again Decor, located in Highland, Michigan, is worth the longer drive for anyone passionate about handcrafted furniture. Specializing in Amish-built furnishings and reclaimed wood pieces, this store has quickly become a favorite for those who value authenticity and durability. The selection includes everything from farmhouse-style dining tables to upholstered headboards, all built with high-end materials like live-edge walnut and hand-finished pine. Many items are sourced from small workshops throughout the Midwest, which adds a personal, human touch to each piece. Their showroom also features statement decor—like oversized wall clocks, mirrors, and lighting fixtures—that make a big impact in large living areas or open-concept homes. But here’s the kicker: Home Again Decor also offers design consultations and furniture customization options to suit your space perfectly. Bartletts’ Home Interiors : One-Stop Home Design in Charlevoix If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution for home interiors, Bartletts’ in Charlevoix has everything you need. This family-run business has been serving homeowners for over 70 years with furniture, flooring, mattresses, and window treatments all under one roof. Their furniture showroom features respected brands in classic, contemporary, and transitional styles, with plenty of options for customizing fabrics, finishes, and configurations. Bartletts’ also has an in-house design team available to help coordinate colors and layouts, which can be a big help for anyone settling into a new home or planning a remodel. Reach Out to Leelanau Living Realty Group Creating a space that reflects your taste and enhances your lifestyle starts with the right home—and the right guidance. Leelanau Living Realty Group brings local expertise and personalized service to clients looking to buy or sell in the Leland area. Whether you're upgrading a current home, seeking a lakeside property, or preparing a residence for the market, they’re here to help you every step of the way. With deep roots in the community and a strong understanding of Northern Michigan’s unique real estate landscape, Leelanau Living Realty Group can connect you to properties and resources that align with your vision. Contact them today to find your ideal home in Leland—and start designing a space you’ll love for years to come.
A construction worker is standing on top of a wooden structure.

Building a House in Leland, MI

April 11, 2025
Building a house is an exciting journey, especially when it takes place in a scenic destination like Leland, Michigan. This charming town in Leelanau County is known for its historic waterfront district, sandy shores, and timeless natural beauty. If you're considering a custom-built home in the area, you’ll be joining a growing number of homeowners who value both personalization and a lifestyle immersed in the outdoors. From securing land to working with the right professionals, the building process in Leland is a unique blend of planning, patience, and creative vision. Here’s what you need to know as you prepare for your new construction project. Why Build in Leland? Leland offers a distinctive mix of small-town living and breathtaking surroundings. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a seasonal getaway, or a long-term investment property, the value of new construction in this area is clear. You’ll enjoy: Natural Beauty: With Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Leelanau to the east, scenic views and outdoor recreation are always close by. Architectural Freedom: Building from the ground up allows you to design a home that reflects your personal style while maximizing functionality. Privacy and Customization: New builds offer control over layout, energy efficiency, and the integration of smart-home technology. Building in Leland gives you the chance to own a piece of Northern Michigan that’s tailored precisely to your vision—whether that means an open-concept modern farmhouse or a timeless lakeside cottage. Finding the Right Lot Before construction begins, you'll need to secure the right piece of land. Available lots in Leland vary in size, terrain, and location. Some are tucked near historic Fishtown, while others are further inland with rolling hills and wooded acreage. Working with a local real estate agent is critical at this stage—they can help you identify properties that align with your long-term goals and are suitable for building. Important factors to consider when choosing a lot include: Access to Utilities: Not all parcels come with hookups for water, sewer, electricity, or internet. Zoning Restrictions: The township has building regulations that influence what can be developed and where. Topography: Sloped land may increase construction costs but could offer dramatic lake views. Proximity to Shoreline: If your dream includes lake access, make sure to account for Michigan’s shoreline protection laws. Some properties in Leelanau County come with existing site plans or soil testing already completed, which can speed up the process. Choosing a Builder Partnering with a reputable builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Local experience matters—builders familiar with Leelanau County know how to work within local ordinances, navigate seasonal weather challenges, and source high-quality materials. When interviewing potential builders, ask about: Past projects in the Leland area Relationships with local subcontractors and suppliers Timeline estimates for project phases Warranties, insurance, and licensure Customization options, including architectural design and finishes It’s also helpful to tour recently completed homes or request client references. A good builder will walk you through each step, from permitting and excavation to final inspection. Planning and Permitting Leland Township has specific guidelines for residential construction, and it's important to understand them before beginning the design phase. Permits are required for all new homes and may take several weeks to process, depending on the scope of the project and the time of year. Permits and approvals to account for include: Zoning and Land Use: Confirm your property is zoned for residential use. Building Permits: These ensure compliance with local safety codes. Soil and Septic: If your lot is not connected to municipal sewer, you’ll need health department approval for a septic system. Environmental Regulations: Properties near protected shorelines or wetlands may face added restrictions. Working with both a builder and real estate professional familiar with local codes will help you avoid costly delays or setbacks. Make sure to include a buffer in your project timeline for permitting and inspections. Designing Your Leland Home Designing a custom home is one of the most exciting parts of the process. In Leland, many homeowners draw inspiration from their surroundings, blending natural elements with clean, functional design. Whether you're building a cozy year-round retreat or a larger vacation property, there are countless ways to reflect your lifestyle in the layout. Key design considerations: Orientation: Position windows and outdoor living spaces to capture morning sun, lake views, or prevailing breezes. Energy Efficiency: Use high-performance insulation, windows, and HVAC systems to manage year-round comfort. Materials: Choose materials suited to Northern Michigan’s climate—durable roofing, moisture-resistant siding, and engineered wood products are popular choices. Outdoor Space: Decks, screened porches, or patios enhance your connection to the natural setting. Don’t forget to consider storage for seasonal gear, guest accommodations, or even a home office—spaces that add value and functionality over time. Timeline and Budget Considerations Building a house is a substantial investment of time and money. The average timeline for a custom home in Leland can range from 8 to 14 months, depending on the size, complexity, and weather conditions. Supply chain issues or permit delays can extend that timeline, so it's wise to build in some flexibility. Cost variables to keep in mind: Site prep: Clearing land, grading, or driveway installation Labor and materials: Vary based on your home’s design and chosen finishes Permit fees: These differ by township and project scope Contingency fund: Always plan for unforeseen costs—typically 10–15% of your total budget Working with a local real estate team during your build can be especially helpful. They can connect you to trusted professionals, track the area’s home values, and even assist with future resale strategy. Contact Leelanau Living Realty Group When it comes to building your dream home in Leland, the right real estate partner can make all the difference. Leelanau Living Realty Group brings local expertise and a deep commitment to client success. They understand the ins and outs of land acquisition, zoning, and neighborhood dynamics—helping you avoid costly mistakes and stay focused on your goals. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or already exploring design options, Leelanau Living Realty Group is here to guide you from start to finish. Reach out today to take the next step toward building a custom home in one of Michigan’s most beautiful destinations.