Discover Silver Lake, MI Homes for Sale: Top Features & Market Insights

Silver Lake

Silver Lake, Michigan is a vibrant lakeside community nestled between rolling sand dunes, lush forests, and sparkling freshwater. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor adventure, Silver Lake offers residents and visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. The community thrives year-round with activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and ORV dune rides at Silver Lake State Park.

Homeowners enjoy everything from cozy log cabins and waterfront cottages to luxurious lakefront estates, all with easy access to local shops, restaurants, and family-friendly events. Whether you're seeking a full-time residence, seasonal retreat, or investment property, Silver Lake welcomes you with scenic views, warm neighbors, and a lifestyle that truly captures the essence of Northern Michigan living.

Real Estate Statistics

Average Price	$1.3M
Lowest Price	$320K
Highest Price	$2.9M
Total Listings	13
Avg. Days On Market	66
Avg. Price/SQFT	$435

Property Types (active listings)

Browse Silver Lake Homes for Sale

• All Listings
• $300,000 - $400,000
• $400,000 - $500,000
• $700,000 - $800,000
• $800,000 - $900,000
• Over $1,000,000

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Price Range

Save Search

Sort by:

Price, high to low

$2,895,000

0 Silver Harbor Drive, Traverse City

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 1918917

Pending

$2,325,000

333 S West Silver Lake Road, Traverse City

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,979 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933693

New

$1,975,000

536 Brakel Point Drive, Traverse City

5 Beds 2.5 Baths 3,680 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935937

$1,850,000

↓ $100,000

5163 Silver Cove Drive, Traverse City

5 Beds 3 Baths 2,564 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934848

$1,499,000

↓ $200,000

383 Finehout Drive, Traverse City

3 Beds 2.5 Baths 2,729 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934642

$1,249,000

↓ $331,000

5161 Silver Pines Road, Traverse City

4 Beds 3 Baths 4,225 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1932727

New Pending

$1,050,000

238 S East Silver Lake Road, Traverse City

4 Beds 1.5 Baths 1,600 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935723

$890,000

220 N West Silver Lake Road, Traverse City

3 Beds 2 Baths 2,100 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933150

Pending

$860,000

5232 Highland Drive, Traverse City

5 Beds 3 Baths 2,812 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1934374

$749,900

950 S Silver Place, Indian River

4 Beds 4 Baths 4,325 SqFt Residential MLS® # 201835347

$429,000

↓ $36,000

5153 Silver Pines Road, Traverse City

4 Beds 2 Baths 2,192 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1933177

New Pending

$365,000

838 Meadow Drive, Traverse City

3 Beds 1 Bath 1,189 SqFt Residential MLS® # 1935956

$319,900

↓ $10,000

13042 Silver Lake Resort Road, Wolverine

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,164 SqFt Residential MLS® # 201834873

Silver Lake, MI Homes for Sale | Discover Value + 25 Must-Know Facts

Explore listings, pricing trends, investment tips & outdoor amenities in this thriving Northern Michigan community.

Introduction to Silver Lake Real Estate

Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan’s natural beauty, Silver Lake is a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of tranquility, recreation, and real estate opportunity.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, seasonal vacationer, or savvy investor, Silver Lake, MI homes for sale provide a diverse range of property types to suit your needs.

Silver Lake attracts buyers from all over the country thanks to its crystal-clear waters, charming communities, and affordable lakeside living. This isn't just a place to visit—it's a place to call home. With increasing demand and limited inventory, now’s the time to dive into everything Silver Lake has to offer.

Why Buyers Are Drawn to Silver Lake

• Scenic Lakeside Living: Wake up to glassy water views and the call of loons echoing across the lake.

• Strong Investment Potential: Steady appreciation and growing rental demand make this market hot.

• All-Season Destination: Boating and hiking in summer, ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter.

• Welcoming Communities: Friendly neighbors, small-town charm, and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Location Overview: Where is Silver Lake, Michigan?

Silver Lake sits in northern Lower Michigan, often associated with locations near Traverse City, Mears, and Oceana County. It’s within driving distance to major tourist destinations like Sleeping Bear Dunes and the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering both seclusion and accessibility.

Nearby Cities and Travel Times

• Traverse City – 1 hour

• Grand Rapids – 2 hours

• Chicago – 4.5 hours

• Detroit – 3.5 hours

With convenient access to US-31 and M-22, you're never far from city amenities or lakeside adventures.

Local Weather and Seasonal Appeal

Silver Lake boasts four distinct seasons:

• Spring brings wildflowers and mild temps

• Summer offers warm days perfect for swimming and boating

• Fall is famous for vibrant foliage and harvest festivals

• Winter sees cozy snow-covered cottages and winter sports

Check out this video for a look at Silver Lake

Types of Properties Available in Silver Lake

From budget-friendly cabins to million-dollar lakefront estates, Silver Lake offers something for every buyer.

Waterfront Homes

These are prime real estate with private docks, beach frontage, and panoramic views. Perfect for full-time living or seasonal retreats.

Cabins and Cottages

Rustic charm meets modern comfort. These properties often come with wood-burning fireplaces, cozy porches, and wooded lots.

Luxury Homes and Estates

High-end homes with features like gourmet kitchens, vaulted ceilings, spa bathrooms, and lake access. Often custom-built and situated on larger lots.

Investment Properties

Ideal for short-term rentals. Think duplexes, condos, or homes with in-law suites—turnkey options ready for income.

Current Real Estate Market Trends

The Silver Lake housing market is heating up. Here’s a breakdown of current trends:

Average Home Prices and Sales Data

• Median Home Price: $395,000

• Lakefront Homes: Range from $500,000 to over $1.5M

• Cabins/Cottages: Typically priced between $250,000 and $400,000

Days on Market and Inventory Levels

• Average Days on Market: 38 days

• Low Inventory: Homes often receive multiple offers within a week

Price Per Square Foot

• Lakefront Properties: $340–$475/sq ft

• Off-Lake Homes: $200–$275/sq ft

These numbers are climbing due to increased interest in Michigan’s inland lakes and post-pandemic relocations.

Neighborhoods and Communities Around Silver Lake

Each pocket around Silver Lake has its own unique character:

Family-Friendly Communities

Subdivisions with playgrounds, cul-de-sacs, and school bus routes—ideal for year-round residents.

Private and Gated Communities

Offer added security and exclusive amenities like clubhouses, marinas, or tennis courts.

Rural vs. Suburban Living Options

• Rural: More land, privacy, and space for outbuildings or farming.

• Suburban: Paved roads, HOA-managed neighborhoods, and closer proximity to town.

Top Features Homebuyers Love

Silver Lake properties often feature sought-after upgrades:

Lake Views and Private Docks

Nothing beats a morning coffee on the dock or sunset paddle on your private lakefront.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Decks, screened porches, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens are common and perfect for entertaining.

Modern Kitchens and Interiors

• Granite or quartz countertops

• Stainless steel appliances

• Open-concept living areas

Whether rustic or modern, homes here are built for comfort.

Cost of Living and Property Taxes

One of the key appeals of Silver Lake is the balanced cost of living—you get serene lakeside living without the exorbitant price tag often found in other waterfront communities.

Comparison to Nearby Towns

Silver Lake provides an excellent value, especially for retirees and remote workers looking for a peaceful escape with a reasonable budget.

Tax Benefits for Michigan Residents

• Principal Residence Exemption (PRE): Reduces property tax for primary homeowners

• Homestead Credits: Potential state tax refunds based on income

• No Local Income Tax: Unlike many other states

These savings make owning property in Silver Lake even more attractive—more money in your pocket for that boat or new kitchen renovation.

Schools and Education in Silver Lake

Education options are family-friendly and accessible, with quality public schools and nearby institutions for continued learning.

Public School Ratings

Silver Lake is served by Shelby Public Schools and other nearby districts, including Hart and Pentwater. These schools rank well for:

• Teacher-to-student ratios

• Academic performance

• Extracurricular opportunities

Nearby Colleges and Universities

If you're raising a family or pursuing continuing education, Silver Lake is within reach of several respected institutions:

• Muskegon Community College – 45 min

• Ferris State University – 1.5 hours

• Grand Valley State University – ~2 hours

This makes Silver Lake not only a good place to live, but one to grow and learn.

Outdoor Activities and Local Attractions

You don’t just buy a home in Silver Lake—you buy a lifestyle.

Boating, Fishing, and Hiking Spots

• Silver Lake State Park: A 3,000+ acre outdoor playground for off-roading, swimming, and picnics

• Little Sable Point Lighthouse: An iconic photo-op and beach-day destination

• Fishing: Anglers catch bluegill, perch, and bass year-round

• Hiking Trails: Quiet forested paths and open dunes—ideal for photographers and adventurers alike

Parks, Trails, and Public Access Areas

• Golden Township Park: Kid-friendly, clean, and well-maintained

• ORV Trails: Silver Lake is one of the only places in the Midwest where you can drive your ATV on sand dunes

Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to do without ever leaving the area.

Year-Round Living or Seasonal Escape?

Many buyers ask: Is Silver Lake a place to live year-round, or better as a summer home? The answer: it depends on your lifestyle.

Pros and Cons of Each Option

Winterization Tips for Seasonal Homes

If you go the seasonal route, protect your investment with these tips:

• Drain pipes and winterize plumbing

• Install a smart thermostat

• Secure your dock and water toys

• Hire a property manager (NorthernMichiganEscapes.com can help!)

Short-Term Rentals and Investment Potential

The vacation rental market around Silver Lake is booming, especially during spring and summer.

Airbnb and Vacation Rental Opportunities

• Weekly summer rentals bring in premium rates

• Holiday weekends book out months in advance

• High demand for 2–4 bedroom homes near dunes and parks

Rental rates average $200–$500/night, depending on amenities and lake access.

Property Management Considerations

Don’t want to deal with check-ins and cleanings? Hire a pro.

Northern Michigan Escapes offers full-service management—cleaning, maintenance, bookings, and even concierge service.

Building a Custom Home Near Silver Lake

If you can’t find your dream home, why not build it?

Popular Builders and Custom Home Plans

• West Shore Builders

• Huron Custom Homes

• Maple Hill Homes

These builders specialize in lakefront designs, energy efficiency, and Michigan-style architecture.

Zoning Laws and Permits

Before you build:

• Check zoning maps through Golden Township

• Apply for septic, well, and driveway permits

• Ensure shoreline regulations are followed

The process is manageable—and often faster than in larger cities.

Transportation and Commuting

Getting around Silver Lake is easy, but here’s what you should know:

Access to Highways and Major Roads

• US-31 runs north-south and provides quick travel

• M-20 and M-116 offer scenic routes through forest and lake country

Public Transit and Ride Shares

• Limited local transit—plan to own a car

• Ride share options like Uber are available but limited during off-seasons

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Whether you're retiring or raising a family, healthcare access is essential.

Nearest Hospitals and Clinics

• Mercy Health Lakeshore Campus – 30 minutes

• North Ottawa Community Health – 45 minutes

• Urgent care clinics in nearby Hart and Shelby

Senior Living and Assisted Care Options

Silver Lake is senior-friendly with facilities offering:

• In-home care

• Assisted living communities

• Physical therapy services

Community and Lifestyle

Silver Lake has a tight-knit, welcoming community that’s proud of its local traditions.

Events, Festivals, and Markets

• Apple & BBQ Festival – Held each September

• Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion – A must-see for off-roaders

• Local Farmer’s Markets – Fresh produce, baked goods, crafts

Dining and Entertainment Options

• Silver Lake Chicken Shack – A local favorite

• Whippy Dip – The go-to spot for soft-serve

• Live music at local taverns and lakefront patios in summer

Working with a Local Real Estate Agent

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, the right real estate agent can make all the difference.

Benefits of Local Expertise

Local agents know:

• Which properties offer the best ROI

• The nuances of lakefront permitting and setbacks

• Upcoming pocket listings and off-market deals

• Who to call for inspections, docks, or remodels

For expert guidance, connect with Brook Walsh—your go-to local expert in Silver Lake and beyond.

Tips for Choosing the Right Realtor

• Ask about lakefront transaction experience

• Verify Michigan licensure and brokerage affiliation

• Check reviews on Google or Zillow

• Ask for a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) for any property of interest

Homebuying Tips for Silver Lake First-Timers

It’s exciting to buy a home in such a picturesque place—but don’t skip the fundamentals.

Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Most local sellers require a pre-approval letter with offers. Partner with lenders familiar with lakefront and seasonal properties.

• Aim for a credit score of 700+

• Be ready with 2 years’ tax returns and bank statements

• Ask about second home or vacation loan programs

What to Expect During Closing

Here’s the typical timeline:

1. Offer Accepted

2. Inspection + Appraisal (7–14 days)

3. Title Review + Escrow Setup (10–20 days)

4. Final Walkthrough + Closing (30–45 days total)

Always review HOA rules and well/septic records before finalizing.

Selling Your Silver Lake Property

If you're a current owner, this market is hot—but that doesn't mean you can skip strategy.

Staging Tips and Photography

• Clean windows to highlight lake views

• Add fresh mulch, flowers, or a fire pit for curb appeal

• Use drone footage for aerial lake proximity shots

Pricing Strategy and Timing

• List in late spring for summer buyers

• Price based on lakefront footage and interior upgrades

• Work with a Realtor who knows how to market lifestyle, not just square footage

Legal and Financial Considerations

Lakefront properties come with unique financial and regulatory elements.

Title Insurance and Escrow

Be sure the title is free of easements or dock disputes. Always use a local title company familiar with Silver Lake specifics.

Capital Gains and Tax Implications

• Primary residences may qualify for capital gains exclusions

• Investment or vacation properties may require 1031 Exchange planning

• Consult with a real estate attorney or CPA

Future Development and Real Estate Outlook

Silver Lake isn’t just a great buy now—it’s poised for continued growth.

Planned Projects and Expansions

• Road infrastructure improvements

• State park facility upgrades

• Increased fiber-optic internet access to support remote workers

Predicted Property Value Trends

• Year-over-year appreciation of 6%–8%

• Continued high demand for short-term rentals

• Land value climbing as inventory tightens

Buyers who get in now stand to reap long-term rewards.

External Resources

Here are helpful links for more information:

• Property Management Services

• Golden Township Government and Zoning Info

FAQs About Silver Lake, MI Real Estate

Q. What is the average cost of a lakefront home in Silver Lake?

A. Expect to pay between $500,000 to over $1.5 million, depending on frontage, lot size, and home features.

Q. Can I rent my home seasonally?

A. Yes! Silver Lake is popular for vacation rentals, especially near the dunes. Be sure to check local township rules and secure proper permits.

Q. Are there HOA fees in Silver Lake neighborhoods?

A. Some neighborhoods have modest HOA fees for road maintenance or shared amenities, but not all do.

Q. What’s the best time of year to buy?

A. Late fall and winter often bring less competition and more negotiating power, though spring listings offer more variety.

Q. Is Silver Lake good for year-round living?

A. Absolutely. Many residents enjoy peaceful winters and vibrant summers, making it ideal for full-time or part-time living.

Q. How do I find a trusted local realtor?

A. Start with BrookWalsh.com—an expert in Northern Michigan real estate with experience in vacation rentals, luxury homes, and investment properties.

Conclusion: Is Silver Lake Right for You?

Silver Lake, Michigan, offers the perfect balance of relaxation, recreation, and return on investment. From dreamy lakefront cottages to high-yield vacation rentals, the opportunity here is vast—and growing.

If you’re looking for a place where crystal-clear waters meet small-town charm, Silver Lake is calling.

Ready to buy, build, or sell? Contact Brook Walsh to start your journey or explore exclusive listings in Northern Michigan.

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.