Real Estate Statistics
Average Price | $797K |
---|---|
Lowest Price | $85K |
Highest Price | $1.7M |
Total Listings | 10 |
Avg. Days On Market | 54 |
Avg. Price/SQFT | $547 |
Property Types (active listings)
Browse Beulah Waterfront Homes for Sale
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- Under $100,000
- $200,000 - $300,000
- $400,000 - $500,000
- $600,000 - $700,000
- $700,000 - $800,000
- Over $1,000,000
Beulah, MI Waterfront Homes for Sale: Ultimate 2025 Buying Guide
Why Waterfront Living in Beulah, MI is a Dream Come True
Nestled along the shores of Crystal Lake, Beulah, MI is the very definition of Northern Michigan charm. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retirement destination, a family-friendly summer escape, or an investment opportunity in a growing vacation market, Beulah waterfront homes for sale offer something for everyone.
With pristine waters, vibrant seasons, and a close-knit community feel, Beulah has emerged as a hidden gem for waterfront living. Buyers are drawn not only to the beauty of the lake but also the lifestyle it promotes—calm mornings on the porch, midday kayak adventures, and evening bonfires with lakefront views.
The Charm of Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake lives up to its name. With over 9,700 acres of clean, spring-fed water, this glacial lake is one of Michigan’s most spectacular inland bodies. Homeowners enjoy:
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Boating and fishing access
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Swimming and paddleboarding
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Unrivaled sunsets from their backyard
And the best part? Despite its beauty, Crystal Lake is far less crowded than Michigan’s more commercialized lake towns, making it ideal for those who value privacy and peace.
Small-Town Feel with Big-Time Views
Beulah's population may be small, but its appeal is anything but. Picture a place where everyone knows your name, but you're never too far from adventure. Locals and visitors enjoy:
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Walkable streets lined with cafés and boutiques
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Friendly neighbors who wave as you pass
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Festivals like Beulah Art Fair and Crystal Lake Sandcastle Contest
It’s truly a slice of heaven—and the lakefront homes here let you experience that charm every day.
Check out this video for a look at the Waterfront Lifestyle
Types of Waterfront Properties in Beulah
The variety of Beulah waterfront real estate is one of its strongest selling points. No matter your style, there’s a home that will match your vision and budget.
Luxury Lakefront Estates
For buyers seeking elegance and comfort, luxury estates offer:
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Expansive lake frontage
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Custom interiors with gourmet kitchens
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Private docks, boathouses, and guest quarters
These homes make fantastic primary residences or second homes for those looking to host extended family or entertain.
Cozy Cottages and Cabins
Want something quaint with character? Beulah's shoreline is dotted with:
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Classic mid-century cottages
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Rustic cabins with modern upgrades
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A-frame homes nestled in the trees
These options are great for seasonal stays, weekend getaways, or short-term rentals.
Condos with Crystal Lake Views
Prefer maintenance-free living? Several condo developments in the area offer:
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Direct beach access
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Balconies with panoramic water views
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Shared amenities like pools and firepits
These are especially popular among retirees and couples looking to downsize.
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Homes
Many Beulah homes are built with year-round use in mind. Key differences include:
Feature | Seasonal Home | Year-Round Home |
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Insulation | Minimal | Fully insulated |
Heating | Space heaters | Central heating |
Winter access | Limited | Plowed roads, utilities on |
ROI Potential | High in summer | Steady all year |
If you're aiming to rent the home year-round or use it during winter sports season, investing in a four-season property is a wise choice.
Top Waterfront Neighborhoods in Beulah
Location matters—and in Beulah, it can impact not only your view but your investment value. These are the top lakefront areas buyers should explore.
Downtown Beulah Along Crystal Lake
Walking distance to:
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Cafés, restaurants, and galleries
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The public beach and marina
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Year-round community events
Properties here fetch a premium due to their convenience and views.
South Shore Serenity
Known for peace and privacy, this area offers:
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Secluded lakefront lots
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Larger acreages
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Mature trees and natural landscapes
Perfect for buyers looking to build a custom dream home.
Crystal Drive Living
Running parallel to the lake, Crystal Drive features:
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Some of the best views in Beulah
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Mix of modern and classic homes
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Easy access to the Betsie Valley Trail
A top choice for active residents who love the outdoors.
Key Features of Beulah Waterfront Homes
What sets Beulah waterfront homes apart from other Michigan towns?
Private Docks and Boat Access
Most lakefront homes include private or shared docks, making boating, jet-skiing, and fishing effortless.
Wraparound Porches and Panoramic Views
Expect properties with:
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Floor-to-ceiling windows
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Multi-level decks
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Lake views from master suites
This kind of scenic living never gets old.
Beach Access and Lakeside Trails
Some homes sit directly on sandy beaches or just steps from trails, giving you year-round access to:
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Swimming
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Hiking
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Biking
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Cross-country skiing
Your backyard becomes your playground.
Real Estate Market Trends (2023–2025)
Want the numbers? Here’s what the Beulah waterfront market looks like heading into 2025.
Average Price Per Square Foot
Waterfront properties in Beulah range from:
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$375–$700 per sq. ft. depending on size, location, and upgrades
Luxury lakefront homes can exceed $1.5M, while smaller cottages may hover around $400K–$650K.
Inventory and Competition
Low inventory and high demand have made waterfront homes hot commodities. Average time on market: less than 45 days.
Tip: Get pre-approved and be ready to act fast.
ROI Potential and Vacation Rental Demand
Thanks to Crystal Lake’s growing popularity, vacation rental income is surging.
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Peak summer rates: $3,000–$6,500/week
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Average annual occupancy: 60–75%
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Best-performing properties: 3+ bedrooms with dock access
Tips for Buying Waterfront Homes in Beulah
Buying a home by the water isn't quite like buying in town. There are a few unique things to watch out for that can save you time, money, and potential headaches.
Work with a Local Real Estate Expert
This can’t be stressed enough—local knowledge is gold in waterfront transactions. Work with agents who:
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Know which properties offer the best long-term value
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Understand local ordinances and zoning laws
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Can identify hidden issues like shoreline erosion or flood risk
Brook Walsh of BrookWalsh.com specializes in waterfront homes throughout Northern Michigan and brings deep expertise to each client relationship.
Understand Riparian Rights
Owning lakefront property in Michigan often comes with riparian rights, meaning:
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You may own the shoreline and dock rights
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You’re responsible for protecting the natural shoreline
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You may or may not be allowed to add a permanent dock, boathouse, or seawall (depending on DEQ and zoning rules)
Before purchasing, always ask for a detailed property survey and check for any easements.
Look Out for Maintenance Considerations
Waterfront living is beautiful—but it can be tough on structures. Make sure to inspect:
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Wood rot, especially in decks and window trim
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Mold and mildew in lower-level spaces
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Well and septic systems near shorelines
Hiring a home inspector familiar with lakeside properties is a smart investment before you close.
Financing a Waterfront Home
Waterfront homes are often priced above the regional median, and financing them can be slightly more complex.
Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Sellers in Beulah's competitive waterfront market look for serious buyers. Having pre-approval from a reputable lender will:
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Strengthen your offer
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Allow you to act quickly
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Give clarity on your true buying power
Many local banks are familiar with the Beulah market and offer portfolio loans that work better for non-traditional properties.
Understanding Flood Insurance and Policies
Even if Crystal Lake doesn’t have high flood risk, lenders may still require insurance depending on:
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Elevation
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Proximity to water
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FEMA flood zone designation
Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to check the property's risk level and get a quote from a local insurer.
Lifestyle and Activities Near Crystal Lake
Buying a waterfront home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Boating, Fishing and Kayaking Fun
Crystal Lake is over 165 feet deep and teeming with lake trout, perch, and smallmouth bass. Residents enjoy:
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Daily paddles at sunrise
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Wakeboarding and waterskiing afternoons
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Fishing from docks or small motorboats
There are several public access points and marinas, including Beulah Village Park.
Dining, Shopping, and Seasonal Events
From casual bites to gourmet meals, Beulah’s culinary scene is fresh and local:
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The Cherry Hut – a Northern Michigan icon
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L’Chayim Delicatessen – for artisan bagels and sandwiches
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Cold Creek Inn – relaxed, lakeside atmosphere
Downtown offers gift shops, ice cream parlors, and markets—all within walking distance of many waterfront homes.
Hiking and Biking the Betsie Valley Trail
The Betsie Valley Trail stretches 22 miles and connects Beulah with Frankfort and Elberta. Residents use it for:
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Cycling
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Jogging
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Cross-country skiing in winter
Access points run right through town, and several waterfront properties back up to or sit just minutes from the trail.
Notable Properties on the Market
Here are a couple of standout homes recently listed on BrookWalsh.com.
Featured Home: Modern Lakefront Luxury
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Location: South Shore Crystal Lake
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Size: 4,500 sq. ft., 5 bedrooms, 4 baths
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Features: Smart home tech, home theater, infinity dock, fire pit patio
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Price: $2,295,000
A true showcase of upscale Northern Michigan living.
Featured Home: Family-Friendly Cottage Charm
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Location: Crystal Drive
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Size: 1,800 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
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Features: Vaulted ceilings, updated kitchen, 70 feet of sandy frontage
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Price: $769,000
Perfect for seasonal use or vacation rental income.
Online Tools and Resources
Whether you're just starting your search or ready to buy, these resources make your journey easier.
Using BrookWalsh.com for Smart Home Searches
The BrookWalsh.com platform is tailored for luxury and lakefront real estate across Northern Michigan.
Features include:
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Advanced waterfront search filters
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High-resolution photo galleries
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Instant home value estimates
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Neighborhood guides and video tours
Explore Virtual Tours and Video Walkthroughs
More buyers are shopping online than ever before. Look for listings that include:
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3D tours (such as Matterport)
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Drone footage showing lake proximity
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Interior walkthroughs with narration
These tools help you narrow your options before ever scheduling a visit.
FAQs About Beulah Waterfront Real Estate
Q. Is Crystal Lake good for boating and fishing?
A. Yes. It’s one of Michigan’s most beautiful inland lakes. Crystal Lake is deep, clean, and great for powerboats, sailing, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Q. Are waterfront homes in Beulah winterized?
A. Many are, especially modern builds and renovated homes. Be sure to confirm details like insulation, heat systems, and road maintenance with the seller.
Q. Can I use my Beulah lakefront home as a rental?
A. Yes. Many waterfront homeowners successfully rent their properties. Check with the Village of Beulah and Benzie County for any short-term rental regulations.
Q. What’s the best time to buy a home in Beulah?
A. Spring and summer have the most listings, but fall and early winter offer less competition and better negotiation potential.
Q. Are there pet-friendly lakefront homes?
A. Absolutely. Many homes feature fenced yards, easy lake access for pets, and nearby trails that are ideal for dog walking.
Q. How close is Beulah to other Northern Michigan destinations?
A. Beulah is centrally located. You’re about:
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20 minutes from Sleeping Bear Dunes
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40 minutes from Traverse City
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15 minutes from Frankfort and Lake Michigan
It’s a great home base for exploring all of Northwest Michigan.
Conclusion: Make Your Beulah Waterfront Dream a Reality
Living on the water in Beulah, MI isn’t just about real estate—it’s about peace of mind, joy, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the dock, reeling in a fresh catch, or watching the sunset with your loved ones, Beulah waterfront homes for sale offer something more than a house—they offer a lifestyle.
With the guidance of local experts, smart planning, and a touch of patience, your lakefront dream can come true.
Beulah is waiting for you.
Eager to learn more about Beulah, Michigan waterfront homes for sale? Connect with Brook Walsh today! We'll be happy to help you through every step of the Northern Michigan lifestyle real estate process.
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