Real Estate Statistics
Average Price | $330K |
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Lowest Price | $52.9K |
Highest Price | $1.5M |
Total Listings | 87 |
Avg. Days On Market | 46 |
Avg. Price/SQFT | $211 |
Property Types (active listings)
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Roscommon, MI Homes for Sale: Uncover Hidden Gems + Top 15 Insights
Introduction to Roscommon Real Estate
Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Roscommon, MI offers homebuyers an irresistible mix of natural beauty, affordability, and small-town charm.
Whether you're dreaming of a lakefront retreat, a cozy cabin, or a family-friendly home near top-rated schools, Roscommon delivers.
With the keyword Roscommon, MI homes for sale strategically placed at the start, let’s take a deep dive into what makes this town a hidden gem for real estate seekers.
Why Choose Roscommon, MI?
A Snapshot of the Community
Roscommon is a picturesque village surrounded by rolling hills, towering pines, and shimmering waters. It’s a place where neighbors greet each other by name and local diners know your order before you sit down.
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Population: ~1,000 in the village, ~25,000 in the county
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Vibe: Friendly, laid-back, outdoorsy
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Known For: Higgins Lake, Au Sable River, and great schools
Natural Beauty & Outdoor Recreation
Few places in Michigan can rival the year-round recreation opportunities in Roscommon:
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Summer: Boating, swimming, and kayaking at Higgins Lake and Houghton Lake
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Fall: Scenic drives and vibrant foliage
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Winter: Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing
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Spring: Trout fishing in the Au Sable River
Cost of Living and Affordability
Compared to metro areas like Traverse City or Petoskey, Roscommon offers affordable real estate with no sacrifice on lifestyle. Lower property taxes, utility costs, and insurance rates sweeten the deal for both first-time buyers and retirees.
Check out this video for a look at Higgins Lake in the Roscommon community
Roscommon, MI Housing Market Overview
Average Home Prices & Market Trends
As of mid-2025:
Home Type | Average Price |
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Single-family home | $190,000 |
Waterfront home | $325,000 |
Cabin or cottage | $150,000 |
Vacant land | $25,000 per acre |
Roscommon’s real estate market remains stable with modest appreciation—ideal for long-term investment or retirement planning.
Types of Properties Available
Buyers can find:
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Ranch-style homes on quiet streets
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Waterfront homes with private docks
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Historic homes with rustic charm
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Turnkey cottages ideal for Airbnb
Buyer Demand & Seasonal Trends
Spring and summer bring peak buyer activity, especially for waterfront homes. Winter often offers less competition and better deals, particularly for motivated sellers.
There are many different housing options in Roscommon including condominiums for sale, downtown homes for sale, land lover homes for sale, luxury homes for sale, and waterfront homes for sale.
Best Neighborhoods in Roscommon
Village of Roscommon
Perfect for those who want to walk to shops, cafes, and schools. Many homes here are:
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Historic 2-3 bedroom homes
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Updated cottages with fenced yards
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Close to the Roscommon Elementary and High School
Higgins Lake Area
Home to some of the clearest waters in the Midwest, this area is in high demand.
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Waterfront and lake-access homes
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Ideal for vacation or second homes
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High short-term rental income potential
Au Sable River Corridor
Tranquil and forested, this region appeals to nature lovers and anglers.
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Riverfront cabins and modern homes
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Great for kayaking, canoeing, and fly-fishing
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Rich in wildlife and peace
Types of Homes for Sale in Roscommon
Waterfront Homes
These are the crown jewels of Roscommon real estate, especially those on Higgins Lake or Au Sable River.
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Private docks
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Panoramic views
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Premium price tags, high returns
Cabins & Cottages
Rustic charm meets modern convenience.
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Ideal for seasonal use or rentals
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Many are fully renovated
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Surrounded by woods, trails, and wildlife
Family-Friendly Subdivisions
These homes are located close to schools, parks, and grocery stores.
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Ranch and bi-level homes
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Ample yard space
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Safe, quiet neighborhoods
Key Amenities & Local Services
Schools & Educational Facilities
Roscommon is part of the C.O.O.R. Intermediate School District, offering:
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Roscommon Elementary School (K-5)
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Roscommon Middle and High Schools
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Roscommon Area Public Library with community programming
Healthcare & Emergency Services
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Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital (15 mins away)
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Urgent care clinics and family physicians in town
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Local fire and police departments provide fast emergency response
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
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Family-owned diners, pizzerias, and breweries
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Weekly farmer's markets and artisan fairs
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Grocery stores like Family Fare and Dollar General
What to Expect When Buying Here
The Buying Process Step-by-Step
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Pre-approval from a Michigan lender
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Search for homes with a local expert like Brook Walsh
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Make an offer
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Inspection and appraisal
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Close and move in!
Working with a Local Realtor
A local Realtor understands seasonal market cycles, well/septic systems, and vacation rental regulations—especially vital in areas like Roscommon.
Inspection & Appraisal Considerations
Be prepared to evaluate:
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Well and septic health
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Woodstove or propane systems
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Seasonal access (plow routes, road easements)
Investment Opportunities in Roscommon
Rental Income Potential
Waterfront homes and cabins near Higgins Lake offer strong ROI, especially on short-term rental platforms.
Fix-and-Flip Properties
Foreclosures and estate sales occasionally pop up—ripe for renovation and resale.
Long-Term Appreciation
While modest, property values are consistently rising thanks to increased demand for Up North living.
Lifestyle Perks of Living in Roscommon
Four-Season Recreation
No matter the time of year, Roscommon delivers something special:
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Summer: Boating on Higgins Lake, fishing in the Au Sable River, hiking in South Higgins Lake State Park
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Fall: Scenic drives on M-18, local cider mills, leaf-peeping
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Winter: Cross-country skiing at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, snowmobiling trails galore
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Spring: Wildflower hikes, trout season, peaceful shoulder-season living
It’s the kind of place where the outdoors are your backyard and every season offers a new adventure.
Community Events & Festivals
Locals take pride in hosting year-round community gatherings that bring folks together:
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Higgins Lake WinterFest
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Roscommon Art Festival
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Au Sable River Canoe Marathon
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Farmer’s markets and outdoor concerts
Peace, Privacy & Slower Pace
Roscommon provides the “Up North” experience you’ve been craving—fresh air, open skies, and quiet nights by the fire.
Comparisons with Other Northern Michigan Markets
Roscommon vs. Grayling
Feature | Roscommon | Grayling |
---|---|---|
Population | Smaller | Larger |
Waterfront Homes | Higgins Lake, Au Sable River | Manistee River, Lake Margrethe |
Vibe | Quieter, rural charm | Slightly more urban amenities |
Roscommon is better suited for buyers looking for peace, privacy, and lake access, while Grayling may appeal to those needing bigger town conveniences.
Roscommon vs. Gaylord
Feature | Roscommon | Gaylord |
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Real Estate Prices | Lower | Higher |
Skiing & Golf | Nearby but smaller-scale | World-class facilities |
Community Feel | Slower-paced | Tourist-focused |
Choose Roscommon if you want to stretch your dollar and enjoy low-key living without the tourist crowds.
Roscommon vs. Traverse City
Traverse City may be the “big city” of Northern Michigan, but Roscommon offers a refreshing alternative.
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Lower home prices
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Less traffic and tourism
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Better access to natural areas, fewer short-term rental restrictions
Tips for Out-of-State and Remote Buyers
Virtual Tours & Remote Closings
Thanks to modern tech, buying a home in Roscommon without stepping foot in it is totally doable. Many local agents, including BrookWalsh.com, offer:
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Drone videos
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Facetime/Zoom walkthroughs
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Electronic signatures for all documents
Local Lenders & Financing
Use Michigan-based lenders familiar with unique aspects like:
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Seasonal access roads
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Well/septic requirements
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Cabins or log home financing
Navigating HOAs and Deed Restrictions
While most properties here are HOA-free, some lakefront neighborhoods have guidelines on:
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Short-term rentals
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Dock installations
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Tree removal
Always ask for a copy of restrictions before closing.
Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
Overpaying in Competitive Seasons
Prices near Higgins Lake spike in summer. To avoid overpaying:
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Shop off-season (fall/winter)
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Work with an agent who can negotiate effectively
Skipping the Pre-Approval Process
You’ll need a strong pre-approval letter to make a competitive offer—especially during busy seasons when cash buyers may dominate.
Failing to Consider Winter Access
Many seasonal roads aren’t plowed in winter. If you're planning to live year-round, check access and township plowing services.
Local Real Estate Laws & Property Taxes
Zoning and Land Use Info
Roscommon County has varying zoning across townships. Popular designations include:
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R1 – Residential
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C1 – Commercial
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FR – Forest Recreation (often more relaxed rules)
Property Tax Breakdown
Taxing Body | Typical Millage |
---|---|
County | ~4.5 mills |
Township | 1-2 mills |
School | ~18 mills (non-homestead) |
Michigan’s PRE (Principal Residence Exemption) allows homeowners to pay lower school taxes if it’s your primary residence.
Transfer Taxes and Fees
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Michigan State Transfer Tax: $3.75 per $500
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County Tax: $0.55 per $500
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Title Insurance & Closing Costs: Varies, estimate 2–4% of home price
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there waterfront homes for sale in Roscommon, MI?
A. Yes! Higgins Lake and the Au Sable River feature stunning homes with private lake access, docks, and scenic views.
2. What’s the average cost of homes in Roscommon?
A. Most homes range between $150,000 and $300,000, with waterfront homes priced higher depending on location and features.
3. Can I use a home in Roscommon as a vacation rental?
A. Absolutely. Many buyers use their homes as short-term rentals when not in use—just check for township restrictions first.
4. What are winters like in Roscommon?
A. Winters are snowy and ideal for skiing, snowmobiling, and cozy cabin vibes. Just make sure your road gets plowed!
5. How close is Roscommon to major cities?
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30 minutes to Grayling
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1 hour to Gaylord
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1.5 hours to Traverse City
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3 hours to Metro Detroit
6. Do I need a Realtor to buy in Roscommon?
A. Yes. Local expertise is key—especially with seasonal properties, waterfront rules, and off-market listings.
Conclusion: Make Roscommon Your Home
Roscommon, MI isn’t just a place—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a weekend lake retreat, a peaceful retirement haven, or a full-time family home, the real estate market here has something for everyone.
With Roscommon, MI homes for sale offering value, natural beauty, and strong investment potential, there's no better time to buy than now. Embrace the Northern Michigan dream—one that’s rooted in community, surrounded by nature, and grounded in peace.
Start your journey today with BrookWalsh.com—your trusted guide to Roscommon and beyond.
Continue Your Northern Michigan Real Estate Search. Explore homes and real estate in the Northern Michigan communities below or contact Brook Walsh to help you with your search.
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