Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $579K |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $1K |
| Highest Price | $13.5M |
| Total Listings | 274 |
| Avg. Days On Market | 38 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $371 |
Property Types (active listings)
Resort LifeStyle Homes for Sale
- All Listings
- Under $100,000
- $100,000 - $200,000
- $200,000 - $300,000
- $300,000 - $400,000
- $400,000 - $500,000
- $500,000 - $600,000
- $600,000 - $700,000
- $700,000 - $800,000
- $800,000 - $900,000
- $900,000 - $1,000,000
- Over $1,000,000
Discover Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale in Northern Michigan
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a place that feels like a vacation every day, resort lifestyle homes for sale in Northern Michigan might be calling your name. Whether you're yearning for ski-in/ski-out chalets, lakeside cottages, or golf course estates, Northern Michigan offers a luxurious lifestyle wrapped in natural beauty. With year-round recreational opportunities and amenities galore, it's no surprise that these homes are hot property.
Introduction to Resort Living in Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan is more than just a scenic getaway—it's a way of life. The region, dotted with charming lakeside towns, top-tier resorts, and forested trails, offers a blend of tranquility and adventure that’s hard to match. Resort living here means access to upscale amenities, maintenance-free communities, and proximity to four-season outdoor activities.
What Makes Resort Lifestyle Homes So Desirable?
Scenic Beauty All Around
From the sparkling shores of Lake Charlevoix and Torch Lake to the tree-covered hills near Boyne Mountain, Northern Michigan’s natural landscapes offer picture-perfect views from just about every window.
Access to World-Class Amenities
Most resort communities provide homeowners with exclusive perks such as:
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Private pools and spas
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Golf courses and tennis courts
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Fitness centers and clubhouses
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Ski lifts and cross-country trails
Year-Round Recreational Opportunities
One of the best parts about Northern Michigan is its four-season appeal. You’ll enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, hiking and biking in spring and summer, and fall colors that draw photographers from around the world.
Northern Michigan offers a great selection of resort lifestyle homes for sale. There are a lot of Resort Lifestyle communities within Northern Michigan and you can view all of them at the bottom of this page. However, the following are our favorite resort communities:
Bay Harbor
Bay Harbor, MI is a world-class resort destination that offers an unmatched blend of luxury, leisure, and lakeside charm. Tu...
Birchwood Farms
Birchwood Farms Golf & Country Club is a prestigious gated community nestled in the scenic hills just outside Harbor Spr...
Boyne Highlands
There’s no reason you shouldn’t experience that brief yet deep relaxation that vacation brings you all year-roun...
Boyne Mountain
Nestled in the heart of breathtaking Northern Michigan, Boyne Mountain Resort Lifestyle Homes invite you to experience a vib...
Crystal Mountain Resort
Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan, is a vibrant, all-season community nestled in the heart of Northern Mich...
Grand Traverse Resort
Grand Traverse Resort is a premier residential and vacation destination located just outside Traverse City, Michigan. Known ...
Harbor Cove
Nestled along the shores of Little Traverse Bay, Harbor Cove Resort in Harbor Springs, Michigan, is a picturesque lakeside c...
Hemingway Pointe Club
Hemingway Pointe Club Resort, located on the southern shores of Lake Charlevoix in East Jordan, Michigan, offers an exclusiv...
Otsego Resort
Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, The Otsego Club Resort in Gaylord offers a refined blend of year-round recreation...
Shanty Creek Resort
Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan’s rolling hills and sparkling lakes, Shanty Creek Resort is a vibrant, four-...
The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Nestled amid the rolling hills and pristine forests of Northern Michigan, The Highlands at Harbor Springs Resort offers an e...
The Homestead Resort
The Homestead Resort, located in the charming town of Glen Arbor, MI, offers a picturesque and vibrant community where resid...
Treetops Resort
Treetops Resort, nestled in the picturesque town of Gaylord, Michigan, is a premier four-season destination offering an exce...
Trout Creek
Nestled in the heart of Harbor Springs, MI, Trout Creek Resort offers a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and natural beauty...
Windward
Nestled amid the scenic beauty of Harbor Springs, MI, Windward Resort offers residents the best of resort-style living with ...
Top Resort Communities in Northern Michigan
Boyne Mountain Resort
A hub for both summer and winter activities, Boyne Mountain offers ski-in/ski-out condos, access to Avalanche Bay Waterpark, and two championship golf courses.
Bay Harbor
This upscale community near Petoskey offers waterfront estates, boutique shopping, fine dining, and a deep-water marina—perfect for yacht owners.
Crystal Mountain
Ideal for skiers and golfers alike, Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville is a family-friendly resort with luxury accommodations and year-round festivals.
Shanty Creek Resorts
Located in Bellaire, Shanty Creek provides three distinct villages, five golf courses, and ski slopes for all skill levels.
Trout Creek
A hidden gem, Trout Creek offers a mix of townhomes and condos with access to hiking trails, fishing ponds, and tennis courts.
Check out this video for a look at the Resort Lifestyle
Home Styles Found in Northern Michigan Resorts
Mountain-View Chalets
Rustic and charming with vaulted ceilings and stone fireplaces—these homes are perfect for cozy winter retreats.
Waterfront Villas
Modern, sleek, and steps from the water. Ideal for boaters, paddleboarders, or anyone who wants to wake up to a lake view.
Golf Course Estates
These homes are perched along the fairways, offering peaceful mornings and immediate access to tee time.
Luxury Condominiums
Often turnkey and maintenance-free, these condos feature upscale finishes and access to shared amenities like hot tubs and fitness centers.
Who Buys Resort Homes in Northern Michigan?
Second-Home Owners
Many buyers use these properties as seasonal escapes from urban life—especially those from Chicago, Detroit, and even as far as Florida.
Vacation Rental Investors
Savvy buyers see these homes as revenue-generating assets, renting them out when not in use to offset mortgage costs.
Retirees Seeking Active Lifestyles
Retirees love the blend of peace and play, with plenty of social events, nature trails, and nearby healthcare.
Investment Potential of Resort Properties
Rental Income Possibilities
Many resort homes pull in six-figure rental revenue during peak seasons, especially those near ski slopes or lakes.
Year-Round Demand
Unlike some resort areas that are seasonal, Northern Michigan offers year-round appeal with skiing, boating, hiking, and festivals.
Appreciation Trends
The market for Northern Michigan resort homes has shown consistent appreciation, driven by remote work, tourism growth, and limited inventory.
Lifestyle Amenities Offered
Pools, Spas, and Fitness Centers
Enjoy a swim, soak, or workout without leaving your community. These shared amenities add incredible value to your lifestyle.
Private Beach Access and Marinas
Many waterfront resorts provide sandy beaches, dock slips, and kayak storage, making life on the water seamless.
Golf, Skiing, and Hiking Trails
Get outdoors and stay active—trailheads, chair lifts, and fairways are just a short walk or golf cart ride away.
Pros and Cons of Resort Home Ownership
Benefits of Carefree Living
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Maintenance handled by the HOA
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Security and privacy
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Community events and activities
Considerations for HOA Fees
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HOA dues can range from $300 to over $1,000 per month
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Make sure the included services match your lifestyle needs
Tips for Buying a Resort Home
Work with a Local Resort Specialist
A local agent—like those at BrookWalsh.com—understands nuances of resort inventory, pricing, and rental income potential.
Understand Rental Restrictions
Some communities limit short-term rentals—important if you plan to rent your home when not using it.
Evaluate Amenities vs. Monthly Costs
Luxury amenities come at a price. Ensure your HOA fees provide real value based on your usage.
Why Northern Michigan is a Top Resort Destination
Four-Season Appeal
Northern Michigan isn't a one-trick pony. From fresh powder in winter to lakeside breezes in summer, every season brings its own flavor of fun. The fall color tours and spring wildflower hikes just add to the year-round magic.
Proximity to Lakes and Forests
You'll find more than 11,000 inland lakes, sprawling forests, and rivers throughout the region. Whether you're into boating, biking, or backcountry skiing—it's all right at your doorstep.
Vibrant Local Towns and Events
Harbor Springs, Petoskey, Boyne City, and Charlevoix aren’t just postcard-pretty—they're bursting with charm. Think: art fairs, farmer’s markets, waterfront concerts, and culinary festivals that attract people from all over the Midwest.
Spotlight: Featured Listings of Resort Homes
Waterfront Homes Near Petoskey
Petoskey's Lake Michigan shoreline offers stunning waterfront properties, complete with private beaches, panoramic views, and million-dollar sunsets.
Golf Villas in Harbor Springs
Tucked between fairways and forests, these homes are popular among retirees and weekend warriors alike. With direct access to courses like Boyne Highlands, you’ll never miss a tee time.
Slope-Side Cabins at Boyne Highlands
Imagine finishing your last ski run and stepping right into your hot tub. These ski-in/ski-out homes make that dream a reality and often come fully furnished—perfect for rentals and personal use.
Financing Options for Resort Homes
Traditional Mortgages vs. Jumbo Loans
Due to higher property values in resort communities, jumbo loans are common. Lenders typically require excellent credit and 20% down, though some local credit unions offer flexible options.
Investment Property Lending
If you're purchasing for vacation rental income, expect slightly higher interest rates. Lenders will consider projected rental income, especially for homes in high-demand areas.
Cash Purchase Considerations
Cash buyers often have more negotiating power. In a competitive market like Northern Michigan, that can make the difference between landing your dream home or losing out.
How to Maximize ROI with Vacation Rentals
Use of Property Management Companies
Companies like Northern Michigan Escapes offer full-service vacation rental management—marketing, cleaning, maintenance, guest services, and more—making ownership stress-free.
Pricing Strategies for Peak Seasons
Peak pricing during ski season, summer weekends, and holiday breaks can dramatically increase your ROI. Smart owners adjust rates using dynamic pricing tools or experienced management companies.
Marketing via Multiple Platforms
From Airbnb and Vrbo to direct bookings and Google Travel, the more platforms you use, the greater your booking potential. Quality photos, great reviews, and responsive communication all boost visibility.
Legal and Tax Considerations
Short-Term Rental Regulations
Local ordinances can vary widely. Some communities have nightly rental caps or permit requirements, so it's vital to understand the rules before buying.
Property Tax Rates in Resort Areas
Expect higher tax assessments in sought-after locations. However, if you use the home as a rental, you may be eligible for business-related deductions.
Capital Gains on Second Homes
If you later sell your resort home, capital gains taxes may apply—unless you convert the property to a primary residence or structure a 1031 exchange.
Building New vs. Buying Resale
Pros of Custom Builds in Resorts
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Tailored to your tastes and needs
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Energy-efficient and modern finishes
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Strong resale appeal due to newer construction
Availability and Timelines
Lot availability is limited in some areas, and build times can run 9 to 18 months depending on location and season.
Maintenance and Resale Value
Newer homes typically require less upkeep and command higher resale prices, especially in popular resort zones.
Sustainability and Green Building in Resorts
Energy-Efficient Features
Today’s resort homes often include smart thermostats, triple-pane windows, and solar panels—appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
LEED-Certified Developments
Some communities aim for LEED certification, ensuring that everything from insulation to landscaping meets high environmental standards.
Eco-Tourism Trends
As buyers become more sustainability-focused, properties that align with eco-tourism values often stand out in the marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are resort lifestyle homes in Northern Michigan good for year-round living?
A. Absolutely! With four-season recreation and well-developed infrastructure, many buyers live in these homes year-round.
2. Can I rent out my resort home when I’m not using it?
A. Yes, many buyers offset costs through short-term rentals. Just make sure your community allows it and check local regulations.
3. Do resort homes come fully furnished?
A. Often, yes—especially condos and turnkey vacation homes. This is ideal for investors looking to rent quickly.
4. What are average HOA fees for resort homes?
A. HOA fees range from $300 to $1,200/month depending on amenities like pools, snow removal, fitness centers, and concierge services.
5. Is Northern Michigan a better investment than other resort regions?
A. For many, yes. It offers relative affordability, growing tourism, and a loyal repeat-visitor base—factors that contribute to strong ROI potential.
6. What’s the best way to tour these homes if I live out of state?
A. Virtual tours, FaceTime showings, and 3D walkthroughs are common. Work with a local agent familiar with resort properties for the best insight.
Conclusion: Embrace the Resort Lifestyle in Northern Michigan
If you're dreaming of a place where fresh air meets luxury living, resort lifestyle homes for sale in Northern Michigan are a perfect fit. These properties offer a unique blend of elegance, adventure, and income potential—whether you’re buying a forever home, vacation escape, or investment opportunity.
From ski slopes to sandy beaches, fine dining to fly fishing, Northern Michigan proves that you really can have it all. So why wait? Start your journey to resort living today and discover what makes this region such a magnetic destination.
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.
Search Homes for Sale in Other Northern Michigan Resorts
- Bay Harbor Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Birchwood Farms Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Boyne Highlands Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Boyne Mountain Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Caberfae Peaks Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Crystal Mountain Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Grand Traverse Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Harbor Cove Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Hemingway Pointe Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Otsego Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Shanty Creek Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- The Homestead Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Treetops Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Trout Creek Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale
- Windward Resort Lifestyle Homes for Sale