Northern Michigan Real Estate Blog

Thanks for visiting my blog where you'll find content relevant to real estate in Northern Michigan, vacation information, rental market updates and more!

Nov. 25, 2024

Welcome to LakeView Bay Harbor!

Introducing LakeView Bay Harbor: Luxury Living in the Heart of Northern Michigan

Welcome to LakeView Bay Harbor, the newest condominium development in the prestigious resort community of Bay Harbor, Michigan. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Little Traverse Bay and infused with the charm of Northern Michigan, LakeView Bay Harbor offers a lifestyle of unparalleled community and convenience.

Whether you’re seeking a serene lakeside retreat, a vibrant year-round home, or a vacation property with all the modern comforts, LakeView Bay Harbor delivers the perfect balance of luxury and lifestyle. Here’s what makes this development the ultimate destination for your next chapter.


Prime Location in the Heart of Bay Harbor

Located in one of Michigan’s most sought-after resort destinations, LakeView Bay Harbor offers easy access to everything that makes Bay Harbor exceptional. Residents can enjoy stunning lake views, world-class dining, boutique shopping, and an abundance of outdoor activities. The community is just a short drive from the charming towns of Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Charlevoix, expanding your options for exploration and entertainment. There are multiple airports within an hour's drive including small FBOs and major airlines.


Thoughtfully Designed Residences

LakeView Bay Harbor features a range of meticulously designed floor plans, offering options to suit every lifestyle. Featuring four bedrooms, these condos are crafted with luxury and functionality in mind. Standard features include high-end finishes such as hardwood flooring, granite countertops, and state-of-the-art appliances, ensuring every detail of your new home exceeds expectations.


Unmatched Amenities

Living at LakeView Bay Harbor means enjoying more than just a beautiful home—it’s a lifestyle. Residents have access to top-tier amenities designed to enrich their daily lives, including:

  • Access to Bay Harbor Yacht Club with mandatory membership for owners
  • Private access to East Park featuring trails, waterfront, playground and access to Little Traverse Wheelway paved pathway.
  • Gated access for Gem or NEV access to Bay Harbor community. 

From active pursuits to quiet moments of reflection, LakeView Bay Harbor is a place where you can truly have it all.


Your Gateway to the Bay Harbor Lifestyle

Bay Harbor is renowned for its year-round appeal. In the summer, spend your days boating, golfing, or exploring the shoreline. When winter arrives, enjoy skiing, cozy fires, and festive holiday events. With every season, Bay Harbor offers something special, making it the perfect place to call home.


Now Accepting Reservations

Excited to join this vibrant new community? LakeView Bay Harbor is now accepting reservations! With pricing starting at $2,000,000, these condos offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of Bay Harbor’s future. Early buyers can take advantage of special incentives, so don’t wait—contact our sales me today to learn more and secure your dream home.


Contact Us to Learn More

Discover why LakeView Bay Harbor is the ideal place to begin your next adventure. Reach out any time to learn more about floor plans, customization options, and the Bay Harbor lifestyle.

Phone: 231-844-4410
Email: Stephanie@jonesNorth.com
Website: www.LakeViewbayharbor.com

We look forward to welcoming you to LakeView Bay Harbor—a community where luxury and lifestyle meet

 

Lakeview at Bay Harbor from the South

Feb. 15, 2023

Walloon Lake Michigan Ice Fishing

Ice fishing on Walloon Lake is an activity that is popular with anglers from all over the region. This picturesque lake, located in northern Michigan's Lower Peninsula, is home to a wide range of fish, making it a perfect destination for ice fishing. Not only is the fishing great, but the area is also home to many wonderful dining and lodging options.

One of the best spots for ice fishing on Walloon Lake is near the southern end of the lake, where the water is deeper and the fish tend to congregate. This area is also a popular spot for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, making it a great location for a day of outdoor activities.

Another great spot for ice fishing on Walloon Lake is near the western shore, where there are several shallow bays that are known to be productive fishing areas. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to catch a range of fish, including bluegill, crappie, northern pike, walleye, and perch.

After a day of ice fishing, visitors to Walloon Lake can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the area's many restaurants. The Barrel Back Restaurant, located on the shores of Walloon Lake, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, steaks, and burgers. The restaurant also has a cozy fireplace, making it a great place to warm up after a day on the ice.

Another great restaurant in the area is The Junction, located just up the street from the boat launch. This restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of delicious dishes, including homemade soups, sandwiches, and pizza. The Junction is a great place to grab a bite to eat after a day of ice fishing.

Walloon Lake is also located just a short drive from Boyne City and Petoskey, two charming towns that offer a range of dining and lodging options. Boyne City, located just 10 minutes from Walloon Lake, is known for its charming downtown area, which features several great restaurants and unique shops. Petoskey, located just 20 minutes from Walloon Lake, offers a range of lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels.

Ice fishing on Walloon Lake is a fun and exciting activity that draws anglers from all over the region. With its abundant fish populations, scenic surroundings, and great dining options, Walloon Lake is the perfect destination for a winter getaway. Visitors to the area can also take advantage of the nearby towns of Boyne City and Petoskey, which offer a range of dining and lodging options.

Feb. 15, 2023

Ice Fishing on Crooked Lake Michigan

Ice fishing on Crooked Lake Michigan is a popular winter activity that draws anglers from all over the region. Located in the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Crooked Lake is known for its abundant fish populations and stunning winter scenery. With its crystal-clear waters and pristine natural surroundings, Crooked Lake is a winter wonderland that provides anglers with a unique fishing experience.

One of the best things about ice fishing on Crooked Lake is the variety of fish that can be caught. The lake is home to a variety of species, including bluegill, crappie, northern pike, walleye, and perch. Anglers can use a variety of fishing techniques to catch these fish, including jigging, tip-ups, and live bait.

When it comes to ice fishing on Crooked Lake, the key is to find the right spot. Fish tend to congregate in certain areas of the lake, and it’s important to do some research and get advice from local experts before venturing out onto the ice. Anglers should also make sure they have the right equipment, including ice augers, ice fishing rods, and warm clothing.

Ice fishing on Crooked Lake is not only a fun activity, but it can also be a great way to spend time with family and friends. Many anglers bring along hot drinks, snacks, and even a portable grill to cook up their catch right on the ice. It’s also important to follow safety guidelines and be aware of the conditions on the lake, including ice thickness and weather conditions.

In addition to the great fishing, ice fishing on Crooked Lake also provides anglers with the opportunity to enjoy the winter scenery. With its snow-covered forests and frozen lake, Crooked Lake is a beautiful place to spend a winter day. Many anglers also take advantage of the nearby snowmobile trails and other winter activities in the area.

Ice fishing on Crooked Lake Michigan is a unique and exciting winter activity that draws anglers from all over the region. With its abundant fish populations, stunning winter scenery, and variety of fishing techniques, Crooked Lake is the perfect place for both experienced and novice anglers to enjoy a day on the ice. Whether you’re looking for a fun day with family and friends or a solo fishing adventure, Crooked Lake has something for everyone.

Feb. 3, 2023

Winter Weather in Petoskey Michigan

Petoskey, Michigan is a beautiful and picturesque town located in the heart of northern Michigan. During the winter months, the area is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of outdoor activities and a unique and breathtaking landscape.

The average temperature in Petoskey during the winter months (December-February) is around 20°F, with occasional dips into the single digits and occasional warm-ups into the 30s. Snow is a common occurrence, with an average of around 50 inches of snowfall during the winter months.

Despite the cold temperatures and snow, the winter months are a popular time to visit Petoskey, as the area offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors and locals alike. Some of the most popular winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

The Little Traverse Bay area is also known for its stunning winter sunsets, which can be seen from many of the parks and public spaces in the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled adventure, Petoskey has something to offer during the winter months.

If you're planning a trip to Petoskey during the winter, it's important to be prepared for the cold weather. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a warm coat, as well as sturdy winter boots. Additionally, be prepared for snow and ice on the roads and sidewalks, and take extra precautions while driving.

Overall, Petoskey is a wonderful destination during the winter months, offering a unique and beautiful landscape, a variety of outdoor activities, and a charming and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life or just enjoy a winter getaway, Petoskey is the perfect place to be.

Feb. 3, 2023

Things to do Up North in Febuary

Petoskey, Michigan offers a variety of fun and exciting activities for visitors and locals alike, especially during the month of January. Here are some of the best things you can do within thirty minutes of Petoskey:

  1. Visit the Little Traverse History Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Petoskey and the surrounding areas. Explore artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that highlight the region's past and present.

  2. Take a scenic drive along the Tunnel of Trees: This 20-mile stretch of M-119 is one of the most beautiful drives in Michigan, offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests.

  3. Go cross-country skiing at Petoskey State Park: Take advantage of the beautiful winter weather and enjoy a scenic cross-country ski adventure through the park's rolling hills and forests.

  4. Enjoy a day of shopping and dining in downtown Petoskey: Browse the unique shops, restaurants, and cafes in the heart of the city. Try some of the area's famous smoked whitefish or other local delicacies.

  5. Visit the Bear River Valley Recreation Area: This park offers a variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing.

  6. Take a snowmobile tour of the area: Explore the beauty of northern Michigan on a guided snowmobile tour through the surrounding forests and countryside.

These are just a few of the many fun and exciting activities you can enjoy within thirty minutes of Petoskey in January. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something for everyone in this charming Michigan town.

May 7, 2020

Michigan Real Estate - Back in Business

Today we can FINALLY get back to the business of Real Estate in Michigan! Below are the requirements/recommendations from the Michigan Realtors association.  When possible, these should be followed until further notice.  I know this in an inconvenience for everyone, but it's important to be safe right now!

 

As of May 7, 2020, Michigan Realtors® may once again conduct in-person listing appointments and showings. However this does not, of course, mean business as usual. Requirements of Executive Order:

1. All in-person meetings with sellers and showings must be done by appointment.
2. No more than four persons may be at the property at one time. No in-person open houses are permitted.
3. All persons must maintain a 6-foot social distance at all times. Use of PPE while in the home is    STRONGLY encouraged.
4. Landlords/property managers may not arrange in-person showings of a rental unit until after the current tenant has vacated.

Additional mitigation measures to consider:

1. Consider limiting in-person showings to potential buyers who have been pre approved for financing. Use photographs, virtual showings and floorplans to help buyer clients narrow down their housing needs and wants prior to any in-person showings.
2. Realtors® are encouraged to work together to avoid consecutive multiple showings in order to avoid overlapping appointments.
3. Consider providing marketing materials and other information relevant to the home electronically in advance of the showing.
4. Encourage sellers not to be present during the showing. Ask sellers to turn on all of the lights and leave interior doors, drapes and blinds open. This will ensure that anyone entering the home will not need to touch the light switches and doorknobs throughout the home.
5. Ask sellers to clean and disinfect all frequently touched surfaces prior to and after the showing.
6. Agents conducting a showing are encouraged to meet their clients at the home rather than drive their clients to the showing. If you are meeting your clients at a home, ask them to wait in the car for your arrival. 7. Discourage anyone who does not need to view the home from attending a showing.
8. Encourage the use of masks and gloves while viewing a home.
9. Ask buyers to refrain from touching any surfaces in a home (including light switches and interior doorknobs). Do not share phones, pens or tablets.
10. Minimize the time physically present at the home. After a showing, rather than engaging in a discussion with your clients while still at the property, consider waiting to discuss the home via email or phone.



There will be a flurry of market activity in the coming weeks.  I have multiple new homes coming to market ASAP!  As always, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out any time.  Stay Safe!     - Stephanie Jones                         
April 14, 2020

Northern Michigan Real Estate Covid-19 Update

UPDATE AS of 4/27/19

It appears we are still not allowed to operate per the governor.  We do not have any indication if we will be sidelined until May 15 or not, but it does not seem like there is urgency in the state administration to get safe businesses back to work!

 

I think it's time to update everyone interested in Northern Michigan real estate on how the industry is currently affected by the Covid19 pandemic.   As a Michigan business, we are required to follow the governor's guidelines and per her executive order, real estate sales is not an essential activity. 

So, what does this mean for the real estate market Up North?  Technically, we can do everything necessary to conduct real estate transactions and close on the sale of a home.  Title companies, banks, appraisers and inspectors are all still able to function during the "stay at home" order.  What is not allowed are: in-person showings, listing photography, in-person client meetings or realtor walk-throughs of a property.  

BUYERS

If you are looking to purchase a home in Northern Michigan in the next month, you still can! My advice is to work together to narrow down the property you are most interested in and decide if you'd like to proceed pending an in-person walk through.  Our MLS only posts 25 pictures and most agents do not have professional virtual tours available (I'm NOT most agents), but homeowners have been helpful with providing additional pictures and video when requested.  I will work with you during the negotiation process to ensure you get the best deal possible.  We know that every dollar counts, especially during what are sure to be trying economic times.

SELLERS

If you are thinking about selling your home, there is a lot that can still be done between now and the time the "stay at home" order is lifted.  We can gather all of the information about your home, conduct a market analysis, and finalize the marketing plan.  When it comes to pictures and video, I will coach you on how to get decent shots with your cell phone.  I will then have those photos professionally improved to ensure the best online presentation for your home. When the order is lifted I will bring in a  professional for  photography, drone and 3D virtual tour creation.

We don't yet know the full economic impact of this pandemic on the Northern Michigan real estate market.  What I do know for sure is that my web traffic is at an all time high and people are shopping right now.  The buyer for your home may be on the lookout today and you don't want to lose them to another property!

I think it's important to remember that this is first and foremost a health crisis.  The economy was strong before and the housing market was in great shape.  For a lot of us 2008 is still a fresh memory.  This is NOT a housing crisis. Rates are still great and there is still a ton of demand.  I also expect the shortage of available homes on the market to keep prices stable.

If you have questions, want to talk houses or just see if it's snowing, please feel free to reach out any time!

Wishing everyone health and safety!

-Stephanie

April 18, 2017

Up North Real Estate Market Heating Up!

As the snow melts and we welcome the arrival of spring, sales are really starting to heat up.  If you are thinking about selling, I recommend taking the steps to market your property now.  It's important to remember that you may have a month or more worth of work to do to the home to get it ready to list.  Because of this, you don't want to get started too late and miss the summer buying season!

As a buyer, it's important to know the current market conditions when preparing to shop.  Even though our market is not as hyper-competitive like some areas like Grand Rapids right now, we are still seeing multiple offers on desirable properties.  This means it's more important than ever to have your financing in order and be prepared to make a strong first offer.

If all this seems intimidating, don't worry!  I'm here to help work on your behalf.  If you are looking to maximize profit on the sale of your current home or get your new dream home, call me any time and we can discuss your options.

 

April 4, 2017

My New Website

Over the past five years, I have been through at least four different iterations of what my website should be. Throughout that experience I've come to the realization that my website needs to do three things really well:

1. Provide home shoppers a clean and easy to use property search tool

2. Equip sellers with up to date market reports and pricing analysis

3. Be a hub of knowledge for Northern Michigan vacation homes, primary residents and investors

I think with the development of this new site, all of those goals can be achieved.   Enjoy viewing Northern Michigan's finest homes, save your searches and sign up for an account so you can stay up to date on the latest real estate happenings! 

The listings, pricing and home status are updated multiple times per day on my site so check back often!

If you have any questions or suggestions for improvement, please don't hesitate to reach out any time!

 

- Stephanie

 

Posted in New Website Launch