Explore 21 Key Insights for Lake Ann, MI Commercial Real Estate Opportunities

Lake Ann, MI Commercial Real Estate for Sale and Lease

Lake Ann, Michigan is a charming village nestled in Benzie County, just 15 miles west of Traverse City. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic lakes, and welcoming community, Lake Ann offers residents and visitors a perfect balance between small-town living and access to modern amenities. With vibrant local businesses, nature trails, and waterfront recreation, the area is a hidden gem for those seeking both tranquility and opportunity.

The community thrives on seasonal tourism and growing year-round residential appeal, making it ideal for commercial real estate investment. Whether you're drawn to its close-knit vibe, strong local economy, or proximity to Northern Michigan's most sought-after destinations, Lake Ann delivers a quality of life and business environment that continues to attract entrepreneurs, families, and investors alike.

Real Estate Statistics

Average Price	$650K
Lowest Price	$650K
Highest Price	$650K
Total Listings	1
Avg. Days On Market	7
Avg. Price/SQFT	$74

Property Types (active listings)

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$649,900

17437 Almira Road, Lake Ann

0 Beds 2 Baths 8,790 SqFt Commercial MLS® # 1938085

Lake Ann, MI Commercial Real Estate for Sale and Lease: Prime Opportunities + 21 Insights

Lake Ann, MI commercial real estate for sale and lease offers high-value investment opportunities, ideal for retail, office, and mixed-use developments.

Introduction to Lake Ann, Michigan

Tucked away in the heart of Benzie County, Lake Ann, Michigan, is a hidden gem for savvy commercial real estate investors. With a tranquil setting, a vibrant local economy, and proximity to Traverse City, Lake Ann blends small-town charm with real potential for commercial expansion. This quiet village has begun to draw attention from entrepreneurs and investors looking for a strong return on investment in Northern Michigan.

Overview of the Village and Surrounding Area

Lake Ann may be small, but it's mighty in terms of location. Just 15 miles west of Traverse City, the area benefits from tourist overflow and local demand alike. The picturesque downtown features boutique shops, restaurants, and professional services that cater to both residents and seasonal visitors.

Economic Growth and Business Climate

The business climate in Lake Ann is fueled by tourism, residential growth, and the steady influx of remote workers. With low unemployment and an increasing number of entrepreneurial ventures, Lake Ann supports a diverse range of businesses—from craft breweries to professional services—making it fertile ground for commercial development.

Why Invest in Commercial Real Estate in Lake Ann

Key Drivers of Market Demand

1. Tourism Traffic: Lake Ann’s popularity as a vacation destination brings seasonal foot traffic that supports retail, hospitality, and service industries.

2. Residential Expansion: New housing developments are expanding the local consumer base.

3. Proximity to Traverse City: Lake Ann is close enough to Traverse City to benefit from its economic momentum, but far enough to offer lower property prices.

Long-Term Growth Potential

Commercial properties in Lake Ann are poised for appreciation. The town's increasing visibility among downstate Michigan buyers and out-of-state investors has already spurred demand. Long-term rental opportunities and appreciation trends suggest promising ROI for those willing to plant early roots.

Types of Commercial Properties Available

Retail Spaces

From standalone storefronts to mixed-use buildings with ground-floor shops, retail space in Lake Ann provides ample opportunity. Local needs range from groceries and cafes to specialty goods and convenience services.

Office Buildings

While large office parks are rare, smaller office buildings and converted homes provide ideal space for attorneys, therapists, consultants, and remote tech workers.

Industrial and Warehouse Facilities

A handful of properties on the edge of the village are suitable for light industrial use, including storage facilities, workshops, or fulfillment centers for e-commerce businesses.

Hospitality and Lodging Options

Lake Ann’s tourism appeal makes it a strong contender for boutique inns, bed and breakfasts, and short-term rental investments.

Mixed-Use Developments

Developments that combine commercial storefronts with upper-floor apartments are gaining traction in Lake Ann, especially with increasing demand for live-work spaces.

Lake Ann’s Zoning Regulations and Permitting Process

Zoning Categories and What They Mean

Lake Ann’s zoning designations include:

• C-1 Commercial District: For retail and service businesses.

• R-C Resort Commercial: Designed for tourism-related businesses.

• I-1 Industrial District: Light manufacturing and warehouse space.

• M-U Mixed Use: Live/work developments and flexible usage.

Permitting and Licensing Procedures

To start a commercial project, applicants must go through:

1. Zoning approval from the Village Planning Commission

2. Site plan review

3. State and county inspections (for food service, etc.)

4. Local business licensing

Working with a local real estate broker and commercial attorney simplifies this process and reduces red tape.

Pricing Trends and Market Analysis

Historical Price Trends Over the Last 10 Years

Property prices in Lake Ann have followed the regional trend of steady growth, with notable jumps during 2020–2022 as remote work expanded and Northern Michigan became a relocation hotspot.

Current Average Prices by Property Type

Lease Rate Comparisons

Leases range from $9 to $16 per square foot annually, with retail and hospitality spaces on the higher end due to seasonal demand.

Notable Commercial Developments in Lake Ann

New Builds and Infrastructure Projects

Recent commercial construction projects include convenience stores, artisan coffee shops, and new office suites. Municipal investments in roads and utilities are paving the way for even more development.

Renovated Historic Properties

Investors are also breathing new life into vintage structures, converting century-old homes into charming offices or boutique lodging.

Benefits of Leasing vs. Buying in Lake Ann

Flexibility and Cash Flow Considerations

Leasing offers flexibility for startups and seasonal businesses, allowing for lower upfront capital and fewer long-term commitments.

Tax Advantages and Obligations

Buying provides tax write-offs for depreciation, mortgage interest, and property expenses. Leaseholders, however, can often deduct 100% of their lease payments as business expenses.

How Seasonality Impacts Commercial Real Estate

Tourist-Driven Business Cycles

May through October brings a surge of tourists, making it prime time for hospitality, retail, and food service ventures.

Winter vs. Summer Commercial Traffic

While summer drives the majority of sales, winter business focuses more on locals and holiday visitors. This dual market requires flexible business models.

Top Neighborhoods and Business Zones in Lake Ann

Downtown Business District

Charming, walkable, and the heart of commerce, the downtown area draws consistent foot traffic from locals and visitors alike.

Edge-of-Village Industrial Sites

These quieter locations offer room for operations requiring outdoor space or delivery access, such as auto repair or warehousing.

Commercial Property Investment Strategies

Buy-and-Hold vs. Flip-and-Lease

Long-term ownership offers equity growth and tax advantages, while flipping can yield faster profits if the market timing is right.

Multi-Unit Management for Steady ROI

Purchasing multi-unit properties—especially those with mixed-use functionality—can diversify income and improve cash flow.

Working with a Commercial Real Estate Broker

Brook Walsh: Local Expertise in Lake Ann

Brook Walsh, of BrookWalsh.com, brings unmatched local insight into Northern Michigan’s real estate market. His expertise spans vacation rental potential, zoning navigation, and investment strategy.

What to Expect in the Broker Relationship

• Tailored property searches

• Zoning and permitting guidance

• Investment viability assessments

• Negotiation support

Steps to Purchasing or Leasing Commercial Property

Financing and Lender Requirements

Banks often require:

• Business plan

• Profit/loss projections

• 20–30% down payment (for purchases)

• 3–5 year leases (for leasehold financing)

Inspections and Due Diligence

Expect environmental reports, zoning verifications, and professional building inspections before finalizing a purchase.

Tax and Legal Considerations for Commercial Real Estate

Business Entity Structure

Forming an LLC or corporation limits personal liability and opens up business lending and tax opportunities.

Tax Deductions and Credits

Commercial property owners can deduct:

• Mortgage interest

• Depreciation

• Repair costs

• Utilities and insurance

Future Outlook for Lake Ann’s Commercial Real Estate Market

Population Trends and Housing Growth

Lake Ann is seeing a demographic shift as retirees and young professionals move in, increasing demand for local services and commercial offerings.

Upcoming Developments and Economic Drivers

New residential subdivisions and broadband infrastructure projects are set to drive business activity in the coming years.

Success Stories from Local Business Owners

Case Study: Retail Startup Expansion

A local bakery tripled its space in under three years due to rising demand from tourists and locals. Their expansion was made possible by the flexible zoning in the downtown district.

Hospitality Investment Turnaround

An investor purchased an aging inn, renovated it into boutique lodging, and reached full seasonal occupancy within one year.

Sustainability and Green Development Trends

Energy-Efficient Building Incentives

State and federal programs offer rebates for solar panels, LED lighting, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.

LEED Certification in Commercial Builds

Some new developments in Lake Ann are seeking LEED certification to appeal to eco-conscious consumers and qualify for grants.

How to Attract Tenants or Buyers to Your Property

Marketing Channels and SEO Strategy

Use:

• Local listings and Google Business Profiles

• SEO-optimized real estate websites like BrookWalsh.com

• Social media targeting regional business owners

Professional Staging and Renovations

Even small upgrades—like modern signage or fresh landscaping—can significantly boost curb appeal and lease potential.

Commercial Property Management Services

What to Expect from Local Providers

Commercial property managers oversee:

• Maintenance and landscaping

• Rent collection

• Tenant screening

• Emergency repairs

Northern Michigan Escapes Management Solutions

NorthernMichiganEscapes.com offers professional property management, helping commercial property owners maximize ROI while keeping operations smooth and tenant-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What types of commercial property are most in demand in Lake Ann?

A. Retail and mixed-use properties lead demand, especially in the downtown area.

Q. What’s the average lease rate per square foot?

A. Rates range from $9–$16/sq ft annually, depending on location and property type.

Q. Is Lake Ann’s market more favorable to buyers or renters?

A. Currently, buyers have the upper hand due to relatively low prices, but rental demand is growing.

Q. How long do commercial listings typically stay on the market?

A. Well-priced listings in good locations can move within 60–90 days.

Q. Are there incentives for business relocation or investment?

A. Yes. Local and state grants may be available, especially for green building or tourism-related developments.

Q. Who should I contact to begin the buying process?

A. Start with Brook Walsh at BrookWalsh.com for expert, local commercial real estate guidance.

Conclusion and Expert Guidance

Why Lake Ann Is a Smart Move Now

Lake Ann, MI offers a rare blend of affordability, scenic charm, and commercial opportunity. Whether you're seeking retail space, a professional office, or a development-ready parcel, this village has potential written all over it.

Work with Brook Walsh and Northern Michigan Escapes

For local expertise and personalized guidance in commercial real estate, trust Brook Walsh and NorthernMichiganEscapes.com to help you find, manage, or market your next investment property.

Continue your Northern Michigan commercial real estate search in the communities below or contact Brook Walsh to help you with your search.