Lifestyle

Land Lover

Welcome to Northern Michigan’s Land Lover Lifestyle community—where wide open spaces, serene natural beauty, and a deep connection to the outdoors define everyday living. This unique region is a haven for those who crave privacy, self-sufficiency, and scenic surroundings. Whether you're drawn to rustic log cabins nestled in the woods, modern farmhouses with rolling pastures, or sustainable homes built for off-the-grid living, you’ll find the perfect blend of comfort and countryside charm here.

Residents enjoy year-round outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, hunting, gardening, and snow sports—all just steps from their front door. Many properties include large acreage, private trails, barns, and outbuildings, making them ideal for hobby farmers, equestrians, and nature enthusiasts.

Land Lover Lifestyle Homes for Sale | Northern Michigan

Real Estate Statistics

Average Price $602K
Lowest Price $50K
Highest Price $16M
Total Listings 1,371
Avg. Days On Market 107
Avg. Price/SQFT $306

Property Types (active listings)


Browse Land Lover LifeStyle Homes for Sale

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4265 Balsam Lane, Boyne City

$16,000,000

↓ $2,000,000

4265 Balsam Lane, Boyne City

14 Beds 8 Baths 5,700 SqFt Residential MLS® # 475226
6424 Brackett Road, Williamsburg

$12,000,000

6424 Brackett Road, Williamsburg

8 Beds 7 Baths 21,000 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1926752
W Top O' The Lake Road 199 Acres, Gulliver

$10,300,000

W Top O' The Lake Road 199 Acres, Gulliver

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 476202
New
6625 Grand Prix Drive, Williamsburg

$9,950,000

6625 Grand Prix Drive, Williamsburg

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1935553
1439 Lindburgh Lane, Cheboygan

$7,450,000

1439 Lindburgh Lane, Cheboygan

5 Beds 7 Baths 9,300 SqFt Residential MLS® # 468365
New
3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

$6,850,000

3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1933705
New
3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

$6,850,000

3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

3 Beds 1.5 Baths 1,632 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933700
6378 S Mac Road, Baldwin

$6,690,000

6378 S Mac Road, Baldwin

43 Beds 17 Baths 11,563 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1860043
9371 Onominese Trail, Northport

$5,950,000

9371 Onominese Trail, Northport

3 Beds 3.5 Baths 6,258 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934738
Pending
9224 E Duck Lake Road, Suttons Bay

$5,725,000

9224 E Duck Lake Road, Suttons Bay

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1930330
1439 Lindburgh Lane, Cheboygan

$5,695,000

1439 Lindburgh Lane, Cheboygan

5 Beds 7 Baths 9,442 SqFt Residential MLS® # 474119
220 Water Street, East Jordan

$4,999,000

220 Water Street, East Jordan

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 475596
1034 S East Torch Lake Drive, Bellaire

$4,950,000

1034 S East Torch Lake Drive, Bellaire

4 Beds 3 Baths 3,845 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934404
00 Lovers Lane, Suttons Bay

$4,800,000

00 Lovers Lane, Suttons Bay

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1934130
New
18599 Mission Point, Traverse City

$4,700,000

18599 Mission Point, Traverse City

11 Beds 11 Baths 6,233 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935725
10292 E Fort Road, Suttons Bay

$4,598,000

10292 E Fort Road, Suttons Bay

5 Beds 6 Baths 8,881 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1931622
2721 Nelson Road, Traverse City

$4,399,000

2721 Nelson Road, Traverse City

4 Beds 5 Baths 6,945 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934261
New
6658 World Cup Lane, Williamsburg

$4,250,000

6658 World Cup Lane, Williamsburg

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1935555
8843 & 8741 Burgess Road, Charlevoix

$4,000,000

8843 & 8741 Burgess Road, Charlevoix

4 Beds 4 Baths 3,880 SqFt Residential MLS® # 469586
Pending
11767 Wild Cherry Lane, Kewadin

$4,000,000

11767 Wild Cherry Lane, Kewadin

6 Beds 3.5 Baths 4,144 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933853
Pending
10343 E Hilltop Road, Suttons Bay

$3,990,000

10343 E Hilltop Road, Suttons Bay

4 Beds 4.5 Baths 3,520 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1929798
6075 Arabian Lane, Williamsburg

$3,950,000

6075 Arabian Lane, Williamsburg

5 Beds 4.5 Baths 4,468 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933760
New
3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

$3,900,000

3619 Tompkins Road, Traverse City

3 Beds 1.5 Baths 1,632 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933699
8401 S Sullivan Road, Cedar

$3,725,000

↓ $174,000

8401 S Sullivan Road, Cedar

4 Beds 3.5 Baths 6,200 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934780
6730 Matheson Road, Northport

$3,632,000

6730 Matheson Road, Northport

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1925454
12150 N Seven Pines Road, Northport

$3,600,000

12150 N Seven Pines Road, Northport

5 Beds 3 Baths 3,876 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934614
1133 W Thumb Lake Road, Vanderbilt

$3,500,000

1133 W Thumb Lake Road, Vanderbilt

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,400 SqFt Residential MLS® # 475759
7822 W Welch Road, Empire

$3,500,000

7822 W Welch Road, Empire

3 Beds 3 Baths 3,064 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935414
New
6495 Idle Dice Drive, Williamsburg

$3,350,000

6495 Idle Dice Drive, Williamsburg

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1935554
14750 Mallard Drive, Traverse City

$3,300,000

14750 Mallard Drive, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1921135
New
8765 Beckett, Johannesburg

$3,250,000

8765 Beckett, Johannesburg

3 Beds 1 Bath 2,000 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1936171
410 S Golden Beach Drive, Kewadin

$3,250,000

↓ $100,000

410 S Golden Beach Drive, Kewadin

5 Beds 5.5 Baths 4,570 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933860
6360 Trillium Trail, Harbor Springs

$3,000,000

↓ $250,000

6360 Trillium Trail, Harbor Springs

5 Beds 4 Baths 4,390 SqFt Residential MLS® # 474371
Tbd Sturgeon Bay Dr, Harbor Springs

$3,000,000

Tbd Sturgeon Bay Dr, Harbor Springs

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 465900
21500 S Pipe Island, De Tour Village

$2,995,000

21500 S Pipe Island, De Tour Village

3 Beds 1 Bath 1,938 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935435
1995 San Marino Trail, Kewadin

$2,995,000

1995 San Marino Trail, Kewadin

4 Beds 4 Baths 4,422 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1932893
Pending
10292 E Fort Road, Suttons Bay

$2,950,000

10292 E Fort Road, Suttons Bay

5 Beds 6 Baths 8,881 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1931623
6036 Brackett Road, Williamsburg

$2,950,000

6036 Brackett Road, Williamsburg

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,145 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1931048
0000 N Garfield Woods Drive, Traverse City

$2,950,000

0000 N Garfield Woods Drive, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1930060
Tbd W Wingleton, Baldwin

$2,900,000

Tbd W Wingleton, Baldwin

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1926127
Pending
0 Timberlee Drive, Traverse City

$2,900,000

0 Timberlee Drive, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1890706
0 Silver Harbor Drive, Traverse City

$2,895,000

0 Silver Harbor Drive, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1918917
5575 M 72, Williamsburg

$2,800,000

↓ $1,100,000

5575 M 72, Williamsburg

5 Beds 3.5 Baths 4,694 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934492
Vl Cedar Run Road, Traverse City

$2,800,000

Vl Cedar Run Road, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1928660
New
6894 Gem Twist Way, Williamsburg

$2,750,000

6894 Gem Twist Way, Williamsburg

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1935468
7683 Herendeene Trail, Lake Ann

$2,750,000

7683 Herendeene Trail, Lake Ann

3 Beds 4 Baths 4,240 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935386
10775 East Traverse Highway, Traverse City

$2,750,000

10775 East Traverse Highway, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1921653
New
Vl 000 Brackett Road, Acme

$2,700,000

Vl 000 Brackett Road, Acme

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1935992

Land Lover Lifestyle Homes for Sale in Northern Michigan – Discover 15 Irresistible Retreats

Introduction to the Land Lover Lifestyle

Introduction to the Land Lover Lifestyle


If you’re someone who dreams of waking up to rustling leaves, mountain-fresh air, and birdsong instead of traffic noise—congratulations, you’ve got a land lover’s heart. Northern Michigan is tailor-made for folks who long for wide-open spaces, big skies, and a lifestyle that blends comfort with the great outdoors. Whether you’re yearning for a rustic log cabin tucked into the woods or a modern farmhouse with rolling pastureland, this region delivers a unique brand of tranquility and freedom.

Why Northern Michigan? A Land Lover’s Paradise

Nature’s Playground: Forests, Lakes, and Rolling Hills

Northern Michigan’s untouched beauty is its biggest draw. Sprawling forests, thousands of inland lakes, and the shimmering Great Lakes create an unspoiled landscape that’s begging to be explored. Here, land lover lifestyle homes often come with private acreage, dense woodlands, or even waterfront access. It’s the kind of setting where you can disconnect and truly live in the moment.

Four Seasons of Fun: Activities Year-Round

Each season brings its own set of adventures. Fall colors dazzle with fiery hues. Winter offers pristine powder for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and maple syrup runs. Summer? That’s for boating, fishing, and backyard BBQs. When you buy land in Northern Michigan, you're not just getting a home—you’re getting a year-round adventure hub.

Types of Land Lover Lifestyle Homes

Rustic Cabins and Log Homes

Rustic Cabins and Log Homes

These are perfect for those craving an old-school Up North feel. Expect exposed beams, fieldstone fireplaces, and cozy interiors that smell like pine. Many feature hand-hewn logs and sit deep in the woods—true getaways.

Modern Farmhouses on Acreage

Farmhouses in this region blend classic architecture with modern flair. Think wraparound porches, metal roofs, and spacious kitchens. With ample land, there’s space for gardening, livestock, or simply soaking in the views.

Off-the-Grid and Eco-Friendly Homes

For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, Northern Michigan offers plenty of sustainable homes. Solar panels, composting toilets, and rainwater collection systems let you live in harmony with nature.

Equine Properties and Ranch Estates

Got horses? You’re in luck. Many homes here feature fenced paddocks, riding arenas, and barns—ideal for the serious equestrian or hobby rider.

Hobby Farms and Homesteads

More folks are embracing the back-to-the-land movement, and Northern Michigan is ideal for it. Raise chickens, grow organic produce, or try your hand at beekeeping. These properties are a land lover’s dream.

The following are our favorite Land Lover communities:

Land Lover Lifestyle

Alanson, Michigan

Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Alanson offers a peaceful, rural charm that’s perfect for those seeking wid...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Beaver Island

Welcome to Beaver Island, Michigan’s best-kept secret for those seeking land-rich living paired with peaceful island c...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Boyne City, Michigan

Nestled between the shores of Lake Charlevoix and the rolling hills of Northern Michigan, Boyne City is a haven for those wh...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Brutus, Michigan

Brutus, Michigan is a hidden gem for those seeking a lifestyle immersed in natural beauty, privacy, and space to roam. Nestl...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Charlevoix, Michigan

Tucked between the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, this northern Michigan gem offers a rare blend of rustic cha...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

East Jordan, Michigan

East Jordan, MI is a haven for land lovers seeking space, privacy, and a deep connection to nature. Nestled at the southern ...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Ellsworth, Michigan

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Northern Michigan, Ellsworth offers a tranquil haven for nature enthusiasts, hobby farme...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Mackinaw City, Michigan

Nestled at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Mackinaw City offers a rare blend of scenic beauty, rich hi...

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Land Lover Lifestyle

Petoskey, Michigan

Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Petoskey is a picturesque community that offers a rare blend of natural beauty, s...

Photo of Petoskey, Michigan community Photo of Petoskey, Michigan community
 

Check out this video for a look at Land Lover Lifestyle

Top Locations for Land Lover Homes in Northern Michigan

Top Locations for Land Lover Homes in Northern Michigan

Petoskey and Bay Harbor

Known for its charming downtown and Lake Michigan shoreline, Petoskey is perfect for those wanting rural charm near amenities. Bay Harbor adds a luxury touch with high-end homes and marina access.

Boyne City and Lake Charlevoix Region

Boyne City offers a vibrant, small-town vibe along with easy access to Lake Charlevoix. Acreage properties here combine lake life with land ownership.

Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula

Traverse City is Northern Michigan’s cultural hub—great restaurants, wineries, and events. Head west to Leelanau Peninsula for rolling vineyards, peaceful homesteads, and dreamy sunsets over Lake Michigan.

Gaylord and the Alpine Region

With its Swiss-inspired architecture and central location, Gaylord is ideal for hunters, skiers, and land lovers who want to be near forests and trails.

Harbor Springs and the Inland Waterway

This upscale community offers privacy, elegance, and access to Michigan’s famed inland waterway. It’s perfect for buyers seeking both land and luxury.


Features and Amenities Buyers Crave

Outbuildings, Barns, and Workshops

When purchasing a land lover lifestyle home in Northern Michigan, the dream goes well beyond four walls and a roof. It's all about space, peace, and possibilities.

Large Acreage and Privacy

Most land lover homes sit on generous parcels—5, 10, or even 100+ acres. That kind of elbow room gives homeowners a real sense of freedom. You can build trails, hunt your land, harvest firewood, or just enjoy the peace of not seeing a neighbor’s porch light at night.

Natural Materials and Custom Architecture

Homes here often highlight nature’s bounty with fieldstone foundations, hardwood floors from native trees, and custom designs that honor the land. The use of reclaimed materials and craftsmanship elevates the living experience.

Outbuildings, Barns, and Workshops

It’s not uncommon to find homes with fully equipped barns, pole buildings, and detached garages. For DIYers and hobbyists, having a dedicated workshop is a huge plus. Some properties even feature greenhouses or artist studios.

Trails, Water Access, and Scenic Views

Whether it's a babbling brook out back, deeded lake access, or a system of private hiking trails, outdoor features are essential. Many homes capitalize on their location with wraparound decks, observation towers, or screened porches for bug-free summer nights.

Understanding the Market for Land Lover Homes

Understanding the Market for Land Lover Homes

Current Trends and Buyer Demand

Interest in rural real estate skyrocketed in recent years. The pandemic made work-from-home lifestyles more viable, and many discovered a yearning for open skies and open floor plans. Land lover homes now appeal to a wide spectrum: retirees, remote workers, young families, and investors.

Pricing Insights and Value Drivers

Prices vary greatly depending on acreage, location, and home condition. Proximity to lakes or ski resorts can significantly raise property values. So can upgrades like solar systems, high-speed internet access, and newer outbuildings.

Investment Potential and Appreciation

Northern Michigan remains a strong long-term investment. As remote work continues and urban buyers seek space and serenity, demand is projected to climb. Whether you flip, rent, or hold, a land lover property here could be a solid financial move.

Financing and Buying Land-Based Properties

Land Loans vs. Traditional Mortgages

Not all lenders treat land the same way. Vacant land or homes on large parcels may require special loans with higher down payments and shorter terms. It's critical to work with mortgage officers experienced in rural and agricultural properties.

Working with Local Experts

Local real estate agents (like Brook Walsh) know the ins and outs of wells, septic inspections, zoning, and local ordinances. A seasoned expert can save you time, stress, and money.

Maintenance Considerations for Rural Living

Living the land lover lifestyle means embracing a little more responsibility. But with preparation, it's smooth sailing.

Septic, Wells, and Utilities

Most rural properties rely on private wells and septic systems. Regular inspections are a must. Power outages? Backup generators are wise. Some areas offer natural gas; others use propane tanks or wood heat.

Snow Management and Seasonal Access

Northern Michigan winters are stunning—but snowy. Long driveways may need plowing or snow-blowing. If your home’s tucked down a seasonal road, four-wheel drive is a must and snowmobile access might even be a bonus!

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Living in Northern Michigan

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Living in Northern Michigan

Solar Power and Geothermal Systems

Many land lover properties lean into sustainability. Solar arrays, geothermal heating, and energy-efficient appliances aren’t just environmentally friendly—they’re wallet-friendly long-term.

Wildlife Preservation and Stewardship

Owning large parcels means sharing your land with local wildlife. Responsible stewardship—like planting native species, managing timber harvests, or enrolling in conservation easements—helps preserve Michigan’s natural beauty for generations.

Navigating Zoning and Land Use Regulations

Residential vs. Agricultural Zoning

Zoning matters. Want to raise livestock or run a business from your barn? You’ll need the right zoning classification. Each county in Northern Michigan has its own rules, so consult the experts before purchasing.

Conservation Easements and Building Restrictions

Some properties are subject to easements that limit development. These can protect views, reduce taxes, or complicate future plans. Due diligence is key before making an offer.

Testimonials from Land Lover Homeowners

"We traded our downtown condo for 20 acres in Charlevoix, and we’ve never looked back. The peace, the privacy, and the night sky—it's unreal."
— Jessica and Luke T., new homesteaders

"Our Boyne City ranch gives us room for horses, a giant veggie garden, and trail access. It’s like living in a postcard."
— Natalie R., equestrian and outdoor enthusiast

"We bought a fixer-upper cabin near Petoskey and turned it into a short-term rental. Between the lake and the ski hills, it's booked year-round!"
— Chris M., investor

Tips for Selling Your Land Lover Lifestyle Home

Tips for Selling Your Land Lover Lifestyle Home

Staging for Acreage Properties

Curb appeal counts—even when your curb is a gravel road! Mow fields, trim trees near the house, and highlight usable outdoor space like firepits or picnic areas.

Highlighting Unique Features in Listings

Use professional photos, drone footage, and detailed property descriptions to showcase your land. Features like hunting blinds, trails, water frontage, and outbuildings are huge selling points.

External Resources for Land Buyers


Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a land lover lifestyle home?

A. It’s a home that sits on substantial land—perfect for those who value space, nature, and outdoor living. These homes might be cabins, farms, ranches, or eco-friendly retreats.

Q. What are the benefits of owning acreage in Northern Michigan?

A. You’ll enjoy privacy, recreation, investment potential, and a deeper connection to nature. Many landowners also enjoy hobbies like gardening, hunting, or horseback riding.

Q. Are there any drawbacks to rural living?

A. Yes—maintenance, longer drives to town, and limited public services can be challenges. But for many, the lifestyle far outweighs the inconveniences.

Q. How do I finance a land lover home?

A. You may need a special land or construction loan, especially for raw land or non-traditional structures. A local lender or broker familiar with rural properties is your best bet.

Q. What outdoor activities can I enjoy near these homes?

A. Hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, ATV riding, snowmobiling, wildlife watching—you name it. Northern Michigan is an outdoor playground.

Q. Is Northern Michigan a good place to invest in real estate?

A. Absolutely. It’s one of the Midwest’s most sought-after vacation regions, offering strong ROI potential for vacation rentals, fix-and-flips, and long-term holdings.


Conclusion: Find Your Northern Michigan Land Lover Dream Home

Conclusion: Find Your Northern Michigan Land Lover Dream Home

There’s something magical about owning land in Northern Michigan. The peace, the views, the self-sufficiency—it’s more than just real estate. It’s a lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a personal sanctuary, an investment, or your forever homestead, land lover homes deliver unparalleled value and joy.

Let us help you find the perfect fit.


Call to Action and Contact Info

Start your search today at BrookWalsh.com
Curious about vacation rental potential? Visit Northern Michigan Escapes

Whether you're buying, selling, or dreaming—we’re here to guide you home.

Explore homes and real estate in the 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.