Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $1M |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $54K |
| Highest Price | $5M |
| Total Listings | 15 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $235 |
Property Types (active listings)
Browse Downtown East Jordan Homes for Sale
- All Listings
- Under $100,000
- $100,000 - $200,000
- $200,000 - $300,000
- $300,000 - $400,000
- $400,000 - $500,000
- $900,000 - $1,000,000
- Over $1,000,000
Downtown East Jordan, MI Homes for Sale – Discover 21 Incredible Living Perks
Introduction to East Jordan, Michigan
Nestled between Lake Charlevoix and the Jordan River, Downtown East Jordan, MI offers a picturesque small-town charm with modern amenities, making it one of Northern Michigan’s hidden gems. For homebuyers seeking serene lake views, vibrant community life, and a growing real estate market, East Jordan delivers in spades.
Whether you're in the market for a cozy cottage, a renovated historic home, or a new construction property with modern touches, East Jordan caters to all tastes and budgets. This article uncovers everything you need to know about homes for sale in downtown East Jordan—packed with perks you probably didn’t know existed.
A Glimpse into the City’s History
East Jordan’s history is steeped in lumber, ironworks, and resilience. The city developed in the late 1800s and flourished thanks to its advantageous location along key waterways. Many of the homes today still showcase classic architectural elements from those early days, beautifully blended with modern comforts.
Why Buyers Are Eyeing Downtown East Jordan
It’s not just the natural beauty that draws people here. Homebuyers are discovering:
-
Affordable waterfront real estate
-
Strong community ties and low crime
-
Easy access to outdoor adventures
-
Walkable downtown brimming with local businesses
-
High-speed internet—perfect for remote workers
Let’s dig deeper into the booming real estate scene.
Real Estate Market Overview
Current Median Home Prices
As of 2024, the median listing price in Downtown East Jordan hovers around $285,000, offering excellent value compared to other lakefront communities in Northern Michigan.
| Property Type | Median Price | Avg. Sq. Ft. | Price/Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Family | $295,000 | 1,800 | $164 |
| Condos | $240,000 | 1,200 | $200 |
| Waterfront | $425,000 | 2,100 | $202 |
Market Trends in 2024
East Jordan has seen a 12% increase in home value appreciation year-over-year, signaling high demand and limited inventory—especially for lakefront and renovated homes.
Investment Opportunities
Downtown homes near Main Street or along the Jordan River attract vacationers and digital nomads, creating solid income potential for Airbnb or seasonal rentals.
Check out this video for a look at the East Jordan community
Popular Property Types in Downtown East Jordan
Single-Family Homes
Charming craftsman bungalows, spacious ranch-style homes, and modern builds offer a variety of floorplans and lot sizes—perfect for families, retirees, or investors.
Waterfront Properties
With Lake Charlevoix and the Jordan River at your doorstep, waterfront homes offer unparalleled views, private docks, and premium value.
Historic Residences
Turn-of-the-century homes are a staple here, many featuring:
-
Wrap-around porches
-
Stained glass windows
-
Handcrafted wood trim
…and loads of character.
Condominiums and Townhomes
Ideal for low-maintenance living, several newer condo developments offer luxurious finishes, open floorplans, and walkable access to downtown.
Neighborhood Breakdown
South Arm District
Located along the south shore of Lake Charlevoix, this area boasts:
-
Lakefront homes with private access
-
Peaceful streets perfect for families
-
Strong appreciation in property values
Main Street Area
The beating heart of East Jordan, Main Street homes are:
-
Steps from dining and shopping
-
Near the marina and Jordan River Boardwalk
-
Often restored with high-end touches
Lake Charlevoix View Homes
Properties perched on hills or bluffs offer panoramic views—especially during fall color season—making them some of the most desirable listings in the area.
Key Features of Downtown East Jordan Homes
Architecture Styles and Design Influences
You'll see a blend of:
-
Craftsman and Colonial Revival
-
Cape Cod and Modern Farmhouse
-
Scandinavian-inspired minimalist builds
Lot Sizes and Outdoor Spaces
Whether you want a low-maintenance urban lot or a half-acre backyard with mature trees, Downtown East Jordan has options.
Common Renovations and Modern Upgrades
Home upgrades often include:
-
Quartz or granite countertops
-
Hardwood flooring and tiled showers
-
Smart home systems and EV charging
Benefits of Living in Downtown East Jordan
Walkability and Small-Town Vibes
Downtown East Jordan is pedestrian-friendly, with tree-lined sidewalks, boutique shops, and friendly neighbors who wave hello.
Lake and River Access
Residents enjoy:
-
Kayaking the Jordan River
-
Boating on Lake Charlevoix
-
Fishing right from their backyard
Community Events and Local Attractions
Year-round events include:
-
Freedom Festival (July 4th)
-
Music in the Park series
-
Holiday Light Parades
-
Weekly Farmers Markets
Schools and Educational Opportunities
Public Schools Overview
Operated by East Jordan Public Schools, the system has:
-
Great teacher-to-student ratios
-
A well-rated high school
-
Sports and arts programs that thrive
Private and Charter Options
Nearby Boyne City and Charlevoix offer private school options, and some East Jordan families participate in school-of-choice programs.
Nearby Colleges and Universities
Within a 1-hour drive:
-
North Central Michigan College
-
Northwestern Michigan College (Traverse City)
-
Lake Superior State University satellite campuses
Transportation and Commuting
Proximity to US-131 and M-66
Downtown East Jordan connects easily to regional highways, making commuting to:
-
Boyne City – 10 minutes
-
Charlevoix – 20 minutes
-
Petoskey – 35 minutes
…a breeze.
Public Transit and Accessibility
While the town is small, BATA and regional transit options are available, and many residents bike or walk year-round.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Local Restaurants and Coffee Shops
Notable favorites:
-
The Rowe Inn (gourmet dining)
-
Foundry Bar & Grill (burgers + beer)
-
The Lunch Box (breakfast spot)
-
Mug Shots Coffee House (local roaster)
Downtown Boutiques and Markets
You’ll love:
-
Handmade crafts from local artisans
-
Seasonal produce from farmers markets
-
Antiques, apparel, and home goods galore
Arts, Culture, and Live Music
Catch performances at:
-
East Jordan Civic Center
-
Raven Hill Discovery Center
-
Outdoor concerts at Memorial Park
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Lake Charlevoix Boating and Fishing
Boaters have direct access to:
-
Lake Michigan (via Round Lake)
-
Pristine fishing spots
-
Marinas and beach parks
Trails, Parks, and Nature Reserves
Popular options:
-
Jordan Valley Pathway (18-mile trail)
-
Rotary Park & Sports Complex
-
Wildwood Rush Zipline Adventure
Winter Sports and Ski Access
Only 15 minutes to Boyne Mountain, where you’ll find:
-
60+ ski runs
-
Tubing, snowshoeing, and Nordic trails
-
An indoor water park for the kids
Local Economy and Employment
Key Industries in East Jordan
Downtown East Jordan may feel quaint, but it's no slouch in terms of economic activity. The community thrives on a blend of tourism, small business, and manufacturing.
Top employers include:
-
East Jordan Plastics – a major local manufacturer
-
Jordan Valley EMS and healthcare services
-
Seasonal tourism businesses like marinas, outfitters, and hospitality
Entrepreneurship is also encouraged through local grants and business incubators.
Remote Work Appeal and Internet Access
Thanks to investments in rural broadband infrastructure, East Jordan now offers high-speed fiber internet, making it a remote worker’s haven. Many buyers looking to escape the bustle of city life find East Jordan a great place to plant roots while working from home.
Cost of Living and Affordability
How East Jordan Compares to Nearby Cities
East Jordan is significantly more affordable than nearby tourist hubs like Petoskey or Traverse City. This affordability makes it attractive to retirees, first-time buyers, and investors.
| City | Median Home Price | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| East Jordan | $285,000 | 87 |
| Petoskey | $410,000 | 104 |
| Traverse City | $465,000 | 110 |
Utility Costs and Property Taxes
Homeowners in East Jordan enjoy:
-
Lower property taxes (approx. 1.4%)
-
Affordable utility rates
-
Efficient services through the City of East Jordan Municipal Department
Buying Process: What to Expect
Pre-Approval and Financing Options
It’s a competitive market, so getting pre-approved is crucial. Popular financing options include:
-
FHA and VA loans
-
Rural Development Loans (East Jordan qualifies!)
-
Conventional 20% down mortgages
Working with Local Agents
Partnering with a local real estate expert who understands the East Jordan market—like the team at BrookWalsh.com—can help uncover off-market listings, navigate inspections, and negotiate the best deal.
Home Inspection Tips
Given the age of many homes, focus inspections on:
-
Roofs and foundations
-
Plumbing and electrical systems
-
Insulation and HVAC performance
Selling in Downtown East Jordan
Best Times to Sell
Peak selling seasons run from March through August, with summer drawing the most foot traffic and second-home buyers.
Pricing Strategies
Don’t overprice. Instead:
-
Study recent comps
-
Highlight upgrades
-
Emphasize location and proximity to water
Staging and Marketing Tips
To stand out:
-
Use high-quality listing photography
-
Highlight unique features (lake views, walkability, historical charm)
-
Use local MLS + platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com
-
Share listings via NorthernMichiganEscapes.com if renting or selling an investment property
Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
Navigating the Local Market
Start early, move quickly. Properties—especially renovated and waterfront homes—don’t last long on the market.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
-
Don’t skip inspections
-
Check for zoning restrictions (especially if renting seasonally)
-
Ensure floodplain compliance if near the Jordan River
Frequently Asked Questions
Q . What’s the average home price in Downtown East Jordan?
A. As of 2024, the average listing price is approximately $285,000, with some lakefront homes exceeding $450,000.
Q. Are there lakefront homes available?
A. Yes! Many properties offer direct access to Lake Charlevoix or the Jordan River, complete with private docks and panoramic views.
Q. How’s the school system?
A. East Jordan Public Schools are well-rated for their class sizes, community involvement, and extracurricular opportunities.
Q. What are the best neighborhoods in East Jordan?
A. Top picks include:
-
Main Street Historic District
-
South Arm Shores
-
Lake Charlevoix Bluffs
Q. Is East Jordan a good place for retirees?
A. Absolutely. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful views, accessible healthcare, and plenty of outdoor recreation.
Q. Can I buy investment or vacation rental properties here?
A. Yes, and many homeowners use services like NorthernMichiganEscapes.com to rent seasonally. Be sure to check with the city about short-term rental ordinances.
Conclusion
Downtown East Jordan, MI, is a hidden treasure on Lake Charlevoix, offering the ideal balance of natural beauty, community charm, and real estate opportunity. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, retiree, or investor, you'll find something truly special here.
Don't wait for the market to climb even higher—reach out to BrookWalsh.com today and start your journey toward calling East Jordan home.
Explore homes in the downtown lifestyle communities below or contact Brook Walsh to help with your search. You can also reach Brook by phone at (231) 459-3179 for all of your Northern Michigan real estate needs.
Browse All Downtown Communities
- Downtown Alanson
- Downtown Alpena
- Downtown Atlanta
- Downtown Bay Harbor
- Downtown Beaver Island
- Downtown Bellaire
- Downtown Beulah
- Downtown Boyne City
- Downtown Cadillac
- Downtown Central Lake
- Downtown Charlevoix
- Downtown Cheboygan
- Downtown Cross Village
- Downtown East Jordan
- Downtown Elk Rapids
- Downtown Ellsworth
- Downtown Empire
- Downtown Frankfort
- Downtown Gaylord
- Downtown Glen Arbor
- Downtown Grayling
- Downtown Harbor Springs
- Downtown Hillman
- Downtown Honor
- Downtown Houghton Lake
- Downtown Indian River
- Downtown Interlochen
- Downtown Johannesburg
- Downtown Kalkaska
- Downtown Kewadin
- Downtown Kingsley
- Downtown Lake Ann
- Downtown Lake City
- Downtown Leland
- Downtown Levering
- Downtown Lewiston
- Downtown Mancelona
- Downtown Manistee
- Downtown Manton
- Downtown Maple City
- Downtown Northport
- Downtown Onaway
- Downtown Onekama
- Downtown Petoskey
- Downtown Rogers City
- Downtown Roscommon
- Downtown Suttons Bay
- Downtown Tawas City
- Downtown Thompsonville
- Downtown Traverse City
- Downtown Walloon Lake
- Downtown Williamsburg