When it comes to buying land lover homes in Onaway, MI, working with a knowledgeable local agent is key. Brook Walsh, a trusted Michigan real estate expert, brings deep market insight, personalized service, and a proven track record of helping buyers find the perfect rural property. His understanding of land use, zoning laws, and local listings makes him an invaluable partner in your search for the ideal Onaway home with acreage.
Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $475K |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $79K |
| Highest Price | $2.4M |
| Total Listings | 7 |
| Avg. Days On Market | 41 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $1.6K |
Property Types (active listings)
Browse Onaway Land Lover Homes for Sale
Top 10 Irresistible Onaway, MI Land Lover Homes for Sale in 2025
Introduction to Onaway, MI Real Estate Market
Nestled in the northeastern region of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Onaway, MI has become a beacon for those seeking a quieter, more spacious lifestyle surrounded by nature. Known for its charming small-town appeal, vast woodlands, and access to the state's pristine lakes, Onaway is quickly becoming a top destination for land lover homes—properties that offer ample acreage, privacy, and natural beauty.
Whether you're an avid gardener, an off-grid enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat away from city life, Onaway has something unique to offer. The town blends affordability with unspoiled landscapes, making it an ideal location for land-rich properties that cater to outdoor-minded buyers.
Why Choose Onaway, MI for Land Lover Homes
Access to Nature and Outdoor Recreation
Onaway is surrounded by lush forests, numerous inland lakes, and the majestic Black Lake. It’s a dream for hunters, fishermen, hikers, and ATV enthusiasts. Residents can enjoy kayaking in the summer, snowmobiling in the winter, and birdwatching year-round.
Affordable Acreage with Expansive Views
Unlike more saturated markets in northern Michigan, Onaway offers larger plots at far more reasonable prices. Buyers can often find 10-20 acres for the price of a small suburban lot elsewhere, making it a smart investment for future value and personal space.
Strong Community and Rural Serenity
This town is home to a tight-knit community with a welcoming spirit. From local farmers markets to community fairs, there’s always a way to connect. Yet, the overall pace of life remains tranquil, ideal for retirees, remote workers, or anyone craving space and simplicity.
Check out this video for a look at the Land Lover Lifestyle
Current Trends in Onaway, MI Land Lover Homes for Sale
Housing Market Overview: 2023-2025
Over the past two years, the market for rural and acreage homes in Onaway has seen a consistent rise. As remote work and eco-conscious living gain traction, more families and individuals are exploring life in places like Onaway, where land is plentiful and prices remain attractive.
Average Prices and Lot Sizes Available
Most land lover homes for sale in Onaway range from $90,000 to $350,000, depending on acreage, home size, and amenities. Lot sizes often range between 5 to 40 acres, catering to both modest land buyers and those seeking expansive rural estates.
Types of Properties: From Cabins to Custom Builds
Buyers can choose from quaint log cabins, fixer-upper farmhouses, modern eco-homes, or simply purchase raw land to develop their dream layout. Custom builds are becoming more common, with local builders skilled in creating energy-efficient, land-integrated homes.
Top Neighborhoods and Areas for Land Lovers in Onaway
North Allis Township
North Allis Township is a favorite among those looking for larger parcels with mature forests and rolling terrain. Many homes here come with 10+ acres, perfect for homesteading, hunting, or setting up a sustainable farm. Its quiet, low-traffic roads and proximity to nature trails make it highly desirable.
Waverly Township
Waverly offers both seclusion and accessibility. Known for its beautiful, buildable lots and occasional lakefront properties, it's ideal for land lovers who want privacy without being too far from Onaway's center. Properties here often feature wooded perimeters and open meadows, giving a perfect blend of shaded and sunny areas.
Forest-Facing Properties and Lakeside Lots
If your dream includes waking up to forest views or enjoying coffee beside a lake, Onaway delivers. Numerous listings include land backing up to state forests or bordering Black Lake. These homes provide not only a natural sanctuary but also opportunities for recreation right outside your door.
How to Find the Best Onaway, MI Land Lover Homes for Sale
Choosing a Local Real Estate Agent
Online Listing Platforms and Tools
While Zillow and Realtor.com list many properties, regional platforms like Michigan Country Homes or local real estate offices often feature exclusive listings. Use filters for “lot size,” “acreage,” or “off-grid homes” to narrow down results that fit the land lover profile.
Timing the Market for Best Deals
Spring and early summer are prime times to buy land in Onaway. Sellers often list properties after winter thaw, and buyers can walk the property in full bloom. However, off-season purchases may offer negotiation advantages. Watching listings over a few months helps identify patterns in pricing and value.
Financing and Buying Tips for Land Lover Homes
Mortgage Options and Land Loans
Unlike suburban homes, land purchases often require specific loan types. Depending on whether you're buying land-only or land with a structure, you might need a rural development loan, a farm loan, or a conventional mortgage with land-use stipulations. Credit unions in Michigan and USDA rural housing programs are worth exploring.
Understanding Zoning and Land Use in Onaway
Zoning regulations impact whether you can farm, build a barn, or keep livestock. Before making an offer, check with Presque Isle County’s zoning office to confirm the land’s designation and permissible uses. Also verify access to utilities, road maintenance, and building permit requirements.
Tips for First-Time Rural Homebuyers
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Inspect land thoroughly: Know the soil quality, drainage, and any environmental protections.
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Get a land survey: Confirm property boundaries to avoid future disputes.
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Check utility access: Remote land might need a well, septic system, or solar panels.
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Talk to neighbors: Local insights often reveal hidden pros and cons.
Benefits of Investing in Land Lover Homes in Onaway, MI
Long-Term Property Value Appreciation
As urban dwellers seek space and freedom, demand for rural acreage continues to grow. Onaway, still relatively untapped, offers strong potential for property appreciation, especially with proximity to natural attractions and state-managed lands.
Rental Income Potential from Nature Tourism
Vacation rentals, especially cabins and eco-retreats, are booming in rural Michigan. Owning a land lover home opens the door to Airbnb opportunities, seasonal rentals for hunters and anglers, or hosting eco-tourism experiences like glamping and forest bathing.
Potential Challenges to Be Aware Of
Maintenance and Access Issues in Remote Areas
Remote properties may have unpaved roads or limited winter access. Maintenance of long driveways, water systems, or septic tanks can be more involved than in city homes. Consider year-round accessibility when choosing your lot.
Local Permit and Building Requirements
If you plan to build or renovate, familiarize yourself with local regulations. Some areas have restrictions on clearing land, well drilling, or building size. Hiring a local contractor familiar with rural codes can prevent delays and fines.
What to Look for in a Land Lover Property
Soil Quality, Water Access, and Sun Exposure
If you're gardening or farming, check for loamy, well-drained soil. Southern exposure helps with solar panels and vegetable growth. Access to a natural spring or creek is a plus, but you'll need to ensure water rights and purity.
Off-Grid Living Options and Amenities
Many buyers seek self-sufficiency. Look for properties with potential for solar, wind, or hydro power. Features like rainwater collection systems, composting toilets, and greenhouses can make your property more sustainable and cost-efficient.
Real Stories: Land Lovers Who Moved to Onaway, MI
From Urban Life to Rural Bliss
Meet the Johnsons, who left their Detroit apartment in 2022 and bought a 15-acre plot in Onaway. They now run a small organic farm, homeschool their kids, and say the move “brought them closer as a family and to the earth.”
Families Building Their Dream Eco-Homes
Another couple, the Tanners, built a passive solar home in Waverly Township. With natural insulation, reclaimed materials, and a wood-burning stove, their home is a model of green living—and it cost less than a Detroit condo.
Sustainable Living Trends in Onaway Land Lover Homes
Solar Power and Green Building Practices
The drop in solar panel prices and rise in eco-consciousness have made solar-powered rural homes more popular. Many builders now offer energy-efficient designs with local timber, recycled insulation, and off-grid systems.
Eco-Friendly Landscaping and Native Species
Native plantings reduce water use, repel pests, and attract pollinators. In Onaway, homeowners are embracing natural landscaping with wildflower meadows, rain gardens, and native trees, all while enhancing biodiversity.
Top Real Estate Agency for Land Lover Properties
When searching for the perfect land lover property in Onaway, MI, it’s essential to work with an expert who understands the unique needs of rural buyers. Brook Walsh stands out as one of Michigan’s premier real estate professionals specializing in acreage and nature-based properties. With a reputation for exceptional service, deep local knowledge, and a commitment to helping clients achieve their rural living dreams, Brook Walsh is a top choice for buyers seeking space, serenity, and investment value in northern Michigan.
Client Testimonials and Case Studies
Many satisfied buyers praise Onaway agents for their honesty, deep market knowledge, and help with everything from land surveys to negotiating well rights. A common theme? “They didn’t just sell us land. They helped us find a home.”
FAQs About Onaway, MI Land Lover Homes for Sale
Q1. What is a “Land Lover” home in Onaway?
A. A home situated on a sizable plot of land, often rural, offering privacy, space, and a strong connection to nature.
Q2. Are land-only purchases common in Onaway, MI?
A. Yes. Many buyers purchase undeveloped land to build custom homes, cabins, or vacation retreats.
Q3. What’s the average price per acre in Onaway?
A. It ranges from $2,500 to $8,000 per acre depending on location, accessibility, and features.
Q4. Can I find homes near water in Onaway?
A. Yes. Some listings include properties with frontage on Black Lake or private ponds and streams.
Q5. Are off-grid homes legal in Onaway?
A. Yes, but you must follow local zoning laws and building codes for septic, power, and occupancy.
Q6. What’s the best time of year to buy land in Onaway?
A. Late spring to early fall offers the best visibility and access for evaluating property features.
Conclusion: Make Your Move to Onaway Today
Onaway, MI offers more than just land—it offers lifestyle. For those who dream of space, peace, and connection with nature, land lover homes here present a unique opportunity to own something truly special. Whether you're building a homestead, escaping urban life, or investing in the future, Onaway welcomes you with open arms and wide-open spaces.
Eager to learn more about Onaway Land Lover Lifestyle homes for sale? Connect with Brook Walsh today! We'll be happy to help you through every step of the Land Lover lifestyle real estate buying and selling process.
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