What and Where Leelanau County Homebuyers Purchased in 2025
A Data-Driven Look at Buyer Preferences and Sales Volume
Leelanau County real estate in 2025 told a clear story: buyers were selective, values remained strong, and demand extended well beyond just waterfront trophy homes. By analyzing MLS sales data from 2025, we can break down what types of homes buyers purchased and which townships captured the most sales volume across the county.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Leelanau County, this data matters—because it shows where buyers actually put their money.
What Leelanau County Homebuyers Bought in 2025
In 2025, 375 residential properties closed across Leelanau County. The breakdown of what buyers purchased highlights a surprisingly diversified market.
🏡 2025 Leelanau County Homebuyer Property Types
44% – Other Residential Homes
(Primary residences, inland homes, village properties, and non-waterfront single-family homes)21% – Waterfront Homes
Still highly desirable, but no longer dominating the market like they did during the pandemic surge.13% – Condominiums
Low-maintenance living continues to attract second-home buyers, retirees, and investors.12% – Water View Homes
Buyers are clearly willing to trade direct frontage for views—at a more approachable price point.10% – Homes on 5+ Acres
Privacy, woods, and elbow room remain in demand, especially among full-time residents.
Key Takeaway
Despite Leelanau County’s reputation for luxury waterfront real estate, nearly half of all buyers purchased “non-waterfront” homes. The market in 2025 rewarded flexibility—not just shoreline.
Where Buyers Spent Their Money in Leelanau County
Looking at sales volume by township gives us a clearer picture of where demand—and pricing power—was strongest.
💰 Leelanau County 2025 Residential Sales Volume by Township
Township Sales Volume
Elmwood Township $47,986,600
Leland Township $45,496,000
Suttons Bay Township $45,377,414
Leelanau Township $42,652,569
Bingham Township $38,312,000
Glen Arbor Township $33,305,260
Empire Township $23,406,880
Centerville Township $13,092,197
Kasson Township $11,954,900
Solon Township $11,638,300
Cleveland $7,427,150
City of Traverse City $5,754,500
Township Market Insights
Elmwood Township led the county in total sales volume, benefiting from proximity to Traverse City, newer housing stock, and strong year-round demand.
Leland, Suttons Bay, and Leelanau Townships formed a tight cluster just behind Elmwood—proof that village-based living and water access remain powerful drivers.
Glen Arbor and Empire continued to perform well despite limited inventory, reinforcing long-term value in west-side Leelanau.
Lower-volume townships like Centerville, Kasson, and Solon still recorded meaningful sales, often appealing to buyers prioritizing land, privacy, or price.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2026
The 2025 Leelanau County housing market wasn’t one-note. Buyers spread their purchases across property types, price points, and townships, proving the market is both resilient and nuanced.
If You’re a Buyer:
You don’t need waterfront to be competitive or to see long-term value.
Condos and inland homes remain strong entry points.
Location, not just frontage, is driving appreciation.
If You’re a Seller:
Pricing correctly matters more than ever.
Non-waterfront homes still command serious attention when marketed right.
Data-backed pricing beats “testing the market” every time.
Final Thoughts on Leelanau County Real Estate in 2025
Leelanau County continues to attract a wide range of buyers—from full-time residents to second-home owners—who value lifestyle, location, and long-term stability. The 2025 data shows a healthy market grounded in demand, not hype.
If you want a hyper-local breakdown of your specific township, price range, or property type, that’s where real insight happens.
Based on data provided by Northern Great Lakes REALTORS® MLS. Reliable but not guaranteed. Fractional ownership excluded.
Need Expert Real Estate Advice? Contact Jonathan Oltersdorf Today!
For personalized insights into Leelanau County real estate, reach out to Jonathan Oltersdorf at Oltersdorf Realty, LLC.
📞 Office Phone: 231-271-7777
📧 Email: jonathan@oltersdorf.com
🌐 Website: www.oltersdorf.com