2025 Leelanau County Real Estate Market Update: Prices Rise, Sales Volume Surges

2025 Leelanau County Real Estate Market Update:
Prices Rise, Sales Volume Surges

If you’ve been waiting for Leelanau County real estate to “cool off,” 2025 politely declined. Prices rose, sales volume surged, and more homes sold than the year before. Using figures from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors® MLS, here’s what actually happened in the Leelanau County residential real estate market in 2025 and what it means moving forward.

Total Residential Sales Volume Climbs Sharply

Total residential sales volume in Leelanau County reached $326,403,770 in 2025, a +15.83% increase over 2024.

That kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident, especially in a higher-rate environment. It reflects strong demand, confident buyers, and sellers successfully closing at higher price points.

Bottom line: capital is still flowing into Leelanau County real estate.

Total Homes Sold Increased by Nearly 11%

This is the stat that cuts through the noise.

  • 2024 total homes sold: 338

  • 2025 total homes sold: 375

  • Year-over-year change: +10.95%

More homes sold and higher prices means demand isn’t just holding—it’s expanding.

Why this matters:

  • Buyers weren’t just browsing—they were committing.

  • Inventory that hit the market moved.

  • The increase in sales volume wasn’t driven only by luxury closings.

In short: this was real market activity, not statistical inflation.

Median Home Price Reaches $680,000

The median home sales price rose to $680,000 in 2025, an 11.57% increase year-over-year.

Median price tells us what the typical Leelanau County home is doing, and this confirms price strength across the market—not just at the high end.

What it signals:

  • Strong competition for well-priced homes

  • Continued upward pressure from limited inventory

  • Sellers rewarded for correct pricing and preparation

Leelanau County remains a supply-constrained market, and the data shows it.

Average Home Price Shows Healthy, Slower Growth

The average home sales price increased to $870,410, up 4.40% from 2024.

This slightly slower growth compared to the median price is actually good news.

Translation:

  • Fewer extreme outlier sales skewing the numbers

  • A more balanced mix of primary, second-home, and luxury transactions

  • A maturing, stabilizing market—not a declining one

Stability at elevated price levels is a sign of confidence, not weakness.

What This Meant for Buyers and Sellers in 2025

Sellers:

  • Demand is proven, not speculative.

  • Homes are selling—375 of them, to be exact.

  • Pricing strategy matters more than ever.

Overpricing will get noticed faster than it used to. Buyers are motivated, but they’re not reckless.

Buyers:

  • Waiting for a major pullback in Leelanau County has historically been a losing bet.

  • Negotiation opportunities exist, especially on stale or improperly priced listings.

  • Quality homes continue to attract competition.

The smartest buyers in 2025 weren’t timing the market—they were choosing the right property.

Why Leelanau County Continues to Outperform

Leelanau County’s long-term strength comes from fundamentals that don’t change quickly:

  • Limited supply and strict zoning

  • Persistent second-home and cash-buyer demand

  • Lifestyle-driven purchases, not short-term speculation

  • Buyers thinking in decades, not rate cycles

2025 reinforced what locals already know: this market plays the long game.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Leelanau County?

Market stats are useful—but strategy is everything. Whether you’re preparing to sell, evaluating timing, or trying to buy without overpaying, local insight matters.

If you want a straightforward, data-driven read on your situation (no sugarcoating, no national-portal nonsense), feel free to reach out.

Data based on information from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors® MLS. Reliable but not guaranteed. Does not include fractional ownership.

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

2025 Grand Traverse County Real Estate Market Report: Year-End Home Sales Data & Trends

2025 Grand Traverse County Real Estate Market Report: Year-End Home Sales Data & Trends

2025 Traverse City Real Estate Market Report: Key Statistics and Trends in Grand Traverse County

Traverse City, nestled along the stunning shores of Grand Traverse Bay in Michigan, continues to be a sought-after destination for homebuyers seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and vibrant community life. As we move through 2026, the 2025 residential real estate data for Grand Traverse County provides valuable insights for buyers, sellers, and investors.

Based on data from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS (compiled by Oltersdorf Realty), the market showed signs of recovery in sales activity despite slight price corrections.

Overview of 2025 Grand Traverse County Home Sales Statistics

In 2025, Grand Traverse County's residential real estate market demonstrated resilience. While home prices experienced minor declines from 2024 peaks, the number of units sold and overall sales volume rebounded notably.

Year-over-Year Changes (2024 to 2025):

  • Average Sale Price: $528,032 → $519,434 (-1.63%)
  • Median Sale Price: $420,000 → $405,223 (-3.52%)
  • Sales Volume: ~$698M → $749,023,516 (+7.46%)
  • Units Sold: 1,320 → 1,442 (+9.24%)

Data excludes fractional ownership and is based on reliable MLS sources.

Compared to Michigan statewide trends (median home price up 4.7% to $267,600 in late 2025) and national figures (U.S. median existing-home price up 1.7% to $414,400), Grand Traverse County prices remain significantly higher, reflecting its premium lakeside location.

Residential Units Sold: A Strong Rebound

Units sold increased 9.24% from 1,320 in 2024 to 1,442 in 2025 — the strongest annual sales volume since 2021.

10-Year Trend (2016–2025):

  • 2016: 1,741
  • 2017: 1,639
  • 2018: 1,639
  • 2019: 1,805 (peak)
  • 2020: 1,713
  • 2021: 1,732
  • 2022: 1,470
  • 2023: 1,311
  • 2024: 1,320
  • 2025: 1,442

This uptick suggests growing buyer confidence and increased market activity in Northern Michigan.

Total Sales Volume: Healthy Growth

Total residential sales volume reached $749,023,516 in 2025, a solid +7.46% increase from 2024 — despite the modest price softening.

Higher transaction volume more than offset the slight decline in average and median prices.

Average & Median Home Prices: Slight Cooling

  • Average Sale Price 2025: $519,434 (-1.63% from 2024)
  • Median Sale Price 2025: $405,223 (-3.52% from 2024)

Long-term perspective (2004–2025): Both average and median prices have more than doubled since the early 2000s, showing strong long-term appreciation even with the 2025 correction.

This slight price softening creates opportunities for buyers while the market remains fundamentally strong.

What These Trends Mean for 2026 and Beyond

The 2025 data indicates a rebalancing Traverse City housing market:

  • More homes are selling
  • Prices have moderated slightly
  • Inventory is improving regionally
  • Buyer activity is picking up

With national forecasts predicting modest price growth (2–4%) and potentially lower mortgage rates, Grand Traverse County could see continued positive momentum in 2026.

Key factors to watch:

  • Rising inventory across Michigan
  • Strong demand for lifestyle locations like Traverse City
  • Stable local economy (tourism, healthcare, remote work appeal)

Whether you're looking to buy your dream home on the bay, sell your current property, or invest in Northern Michigan real estate, 2026 appears to offer promising opportunities.

For personalized guidance on Traverse City homes, waterfront properties, or the latest Grand Traverse County market updates, contact a local expert today.

Data source: Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS, compiled by Oltersdorf Realty. Figures are reliable but not guaranteed.

This report is based on verified MLS data from the Northern Michigan Realtors. Note that undisclosed home sales and fractional ownership transactions are excluded to maintain data accuracy.

Need Expert Real Estate Advice? Contact Jonathan Oltersdorf Today!

For personalized insights into Grand Traverse 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

Geography of Choice in 2020s America: Traverse City & Leelanau County

The Geography of Choice in 2020s America: What a Recent Domestic Migration Map Reveals — And Why Traverse City and Leelanau County, MI Are Winning Big

National Migration Hotspots and Cold Spots

  • Big winners in dark green: The Upper Rockies (+6.0% of regional population), Greater Ozarks (+3.5%), Texas Triangle (+3.5%), Southern Coastal Plain (+7.1%), and the Northwoods (+3.3% with 56,000 net new residents).

  • The map outlines the Northwoods (Laurentian Mixed Forest Province) stretching across northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and into the northern Lower Peninsula — a sparsely populated, forested region standing out with consistent green shading amid much of the rural Midwest's neutral or purple tones.

  • Major losers in purple: California (1.47 million net loss, -3.7%), the Mississippi Delta (-5.0%), and parts of the Great Plains.

The map emphasizes that migration favors scenic, nature-rich areas with lower costs and outdoor appeal — often rural or small-town spots boosted by remote work.Why the Northwoods — Including Northern Michigan — Are Attracting New Residents. The Northwoods region, including much of Northern Michigan, bucks broader Midwest trends with positive net domestic migration. This aligns with real-world data: Michigan's rural counties (especially in the northwest) saw population growth from 2020-2024 driven by domestic in-migration, offsetting natural decrease. Areas like Traverse City and surrounding counties have benefited from inflows of remote workers, retirees, and families escaping high costs, extreme heat in places like Texas/Florida, or urban pressures elsewhere.Recent reports note people moving into the Traverse City area from southern states, drawn by four-season beauty, community, and relative affordability compared to coastal hotspots.Traverse City and Leelanau County: A Prime Example of "Geography of Choice"Nestled in the heart of the Northwoods ecoregion along Lake Michigan, Traverse City, MI, and Leelanau County embody why people are choosing these areas. The region boasts stunning natural features, a thriving local economy (wine, cherries, tourism), and a peaceful lifestyle that's increasingly appealing in the 2020s.

Why Move to Traverse City or Leelanau County, MI?

  • Natural beauty — Pristine lakes, dunes, forests, and trails.

  • Quality of life — Four seasons, farm-to-table scene, wineries, and small-town vibe.

  • Migration momentum — Positive domestic inflows, especially post-2020, as people seek cooler climates and space.

  • Economic perks — Growing opportunities in tourism, remote work, and agriculture.

If you're considering a move to Northern Michigan, Traverse City and Leelanau County stand out as top destinations in America's shifting "Geography of Choice." The 2020-2024 migration map proves it: people are choosing places like ours for the lifestyle they offer.Have you noticed more out-of-state plates around town?

2024 Grand Traverse County Real Estate Market Report: Year-End Home Sales Data & Trends

2024 Grand Traverse County Real Estate Market Report: Year-End Home Sales Data & Trends

Looking for the latest 2024 Grand Traverse County real estate market trends? This comprehensive year-end home sales report provides in-depth insights into Traverse City home sales, pricing trends, and real estate market performance. Explore historical sales data, compare pricing changes, and discover what’s driving the Northern Michigan housing market.

2024 Grand Traverse County Home Sales Data & Market Trends

The 2024 real estate market in Grand Traverse County saw notable shifts in pricing and sales volume. Below, we break down the key data points for home sales between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, while comparing trends from the past decade (2015-2023). This data includes sales across Acme, Blair, East Bay, Fife Lake, Garfield, Grant, Green Lake, Long Lake, Mayfield, Paradise, Peninsula, Union, Whitewater, and the City of Traverse City.

Key 2024 Grand Traverse County Home Sales Statistics:

  • Total Homes Sold: +0.38% Increase (compared to 2023)

  • Total Sales Volume: +6.04% Increase

  • Average Home Sales Price: +5.64% Increase

  • Median Home Sales Price: +6.04% Increase

Traverse City & Grand Traverse County Housing Market Insights

The Traverse City real estate market has remained strong, with steady growth in home values and increased buyer demand. Rising home prices in 2024 reflect market stability, while inventory levels continue to shape the housing landscape. Whether you’re a homebuyer, seller, or investor, understanding these real estate market trends is crucial for making informed decisions.

Historical Real Estate Market Comparison: 2015-2024

This Grand Traverse County housing market analysis includes data from the Northern Michigan Realtors MLS spanning 2004-2024. By comparing Traverse City real estate trends over the past decade, you can identify long-term growth patterns and market fluctuations.

Why This Data Matters for Homebuyers & Sellers

  • Sellers: Learn how rising home values can maximize your home sale profits.

  • Buyers: Understand market pricing trends to make informed home purchasing decisions.

  • Investors: Gain insight into Grand Traverse County real estate appreciation rates for better investment strategies.

Reliable Grand Traverse County Home Sales Data

This report is based on verified MLS data from the Northern Michigan Realtors. Note that undisclosed home sales and fractional ownership transactions are excluded to maintain data accuracy.

Need Expert Real Estate Advice? Contact Jonathan Oltersdorf Today!

For personalized insights into Grand Traverse County real estate, reach out to Jonathan Oltersdorf at Oltersdorf Realty, LLC.

📞 Phone: 231-271-7777
📧 Email: jonathan@oltersdorf.com
🌐 Website: www.oltersdorf.com

Leelanau County Real Estate vs. S&P 500: (2006-2024)

Leelanau County Real Estate vs. S&P 500: A Data-Driven Market Comparison (2006-2024)

Are you wondering how Leelanau County real estate compares to the S&P 500 over time? Understanding the performance of home values in Leelanau County versus the stock market can provide valuable insights for investors and homeowners alike.

Our in-depth analysis examines the annual average and median home sale prices in Leelanau County from 2006 to 2024, alongside the S&P 500 year-end closing prices for each corresponding year. By analyzing this data, you'll discover key real estate trends and how they correlate with broader market movements.

Over the past two decades, both real estate and stock market investments have experienced significant appreciation. As economic conditions fluctuate, understanding the relationship between home values and equity markets can help you make informed decisions about buying or selling property in Leelanau County.

📊 Check out the chart above for a side-by-side comparison of Leelanau County home prices and the S&P 500 from 2006 to 2024.

For expert insights into Leelanau County’s housing market trends, contact us today! Whether you're considering a vacation home, investment property, or primary residence, staying informed is key to making the best real estate decisions.

2024 Leelanau County Year-End Vacant Land Sales Data

2024 Leelanau County Vacant Land Market Trends: Year-End Insights

Units Sold: +17.26%
Volume Sold: +17.57%

Introduction:

Explore the latest trends shaping Leelanau County's vacant land market with our comprehensive analysis of the 2024 year-end sales data. This detailed report highlights key statistics such as units and volume sold, current inventory levels, and provides actionable insights into the real estate landscape in Leelanau County. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor, this article is your go-to resource for understanding the dynamics of Leelanau County's vacant land market.

Overview:

This analysis covers vacant land sales data from January 1 to December 31, 2024, offering a year-over-year comparison with statistics from 2015 to 2024. Our data spans the entire county, including popular areas like Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City, located in the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

Key Market Trends:

  • Vacant Land Sales Normalization: After a record-breaking year in 2021, the vacant land market in 2022-2024 saw a return to historical averages.

  • Construction Activity on the Rise: Building permits issued in 2024 showed an uptick, both in volume and total value. While new construction remains expensive, the increased activity signals a more stable construction industry in Leelanau County.

Building Permits and Construction Trends:

Leelanau County experienced a significant increase in building permits issued during 2024, along with a rise in their total value. This growth reflects a stabilization in the construction sector despite the ongoing high costs of new builds. The upward trend is a promising indicator for future development and investment opportunities in the area.

Data Source and Accuracy:

The insights in this report are derived from sales data provided by the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. Please note that undisclosed sales are excluded from the analysis to maintain transparency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this information is intended for general review purposes and is not guaranteed.

Why Stay Updated on Leelanau County Real Estate?

Staying informed on market trends is essential for making smart real estate decisions. Whether you're looking to invest in vacant land, build your dream home, or understand the market dynamics, the data provided in this report offers valuable context for navigating the Leelanau County real estate market in 2024 and beyond.

Contact Information: For further inquiries or to explore real estate opportunities in Leelanau County, feel free to contact Jonathan Oltersdorf of Oltersdorf Realty, LLC at:

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions in the Leelanau County real estate market by following us on social media!

What Did Leelanau County Home Buyers Purchase in 2024?

What Did Leelanau County Home Buyers Purchase in 2024?

Discover the latest insights into Leelanau County's real estate market with key statistics from 2024. Learn about home sales, pricing trends, and the most active townships in the region.

Leelanau County Real Estate Overview

In 2024, Leelanau County experienced a dynamic real estate market, with significant trends defining the housing landscape. Notably, 63.3% of all homes sold in the county exceeded the $500,000 price point, highlighting a strong demand for higher-end properties.

Pricing Trends

The most common price range for home sales in Leelanau County in 2024 was $400,000 to $500,000, reflecting high buyer interest in this bracket. Close behind were the $300,000 to $400,000 and $500,000 to $600,000 ranges, showcasing a diverse inventory that catered to various budgets and preferences.

Top Townships by Real Estate Activity

Several townships stood out for their high volume of residential sales. Here are the most active areas in Leelanau County's real estate market for 2024:

  1. Leland

  2. Elmwood

  3. Glen Arbor

  4. Suttons Bay

  5. Leelanau

Each of these townships saw robust buyer activity, offering unique opportunities for prospective homeowners.

Conclusion

The 2024 Leelanau County real estate market was defined by strong demand across various price ranges and significant activity in key townships. Whether you're exploring pricing trends or identifying areas with the highest sales volume, these insights provide a valuable snapshot of the local housing market.

Stay informed and make confident real estate decisions in Leelanau County by following Oltersdorf Realty on Facebook or Instagram.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. Undisclosed sales and fractional ownership sales are not included in the data. This is for basic review purposes only. All attempts for accuracy have been made but cannot be guaranteed.

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

Debunking the Myth: Are Leelanau County Principal Residences Turning Into Vacation Rentals?

Debunking the Myth: Are Leelanau County Principal Residences Turning Into Vacation Rentals?

Interestingly, in 2024, less than half of the homes in Leelanau County—just 46%—were primary residences. A common myth I often hear is that everyone is buying year-round primary homes and converting them into vacation rentals. However, the data doesn’t support this claim. In fact, the percentage of primary homes in Leelanau County has remained fairly consistent over the years, hovering between 45% and 47%. It's actually slightly higher now than it was 15 years ago.

On the other hand, it's clear that the total number of vacation rentals in the county has risen significantly. But the data shows these vacation rentals weren’t year-round primary homes being converted into short-term rentals. Instead, they were already second homes, vacation properties, or long-term rentals. Now, their owners are choosing to rent them out short-term while still using them personally.

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

Where Are Leelanau County Home Buyers Coming From in 2024?

Where Are Leelanau County Home Buyers Coming From in 2024?

Curious about the origins of home buyers in Leelanau County in 2024? We analyzed the data, breaking down the primary mailing addresses (zip codes) of the 338 residential real estate buyers in the area last year. Here’s what we found.

Local Buyers: A Shrinking Share

In 2024, 40% of home buyers came from zip codes in Leelanau County or neighboring Grand Traverse County, which includes Traverse City. However, this percentage has steadily declined since 2014. This shift marks a notable change in the makeup of the local buyer base.

Expanding Reach: Buyers from Across the U.S.

Historically, most Leelanau County buyers originated from areas within a 6-hour drive. But the trend is changing. More buyers are now coming from across the country, especially from western states like Colorado, California, and Texas.

This evolving dynamic signals a growing interest in Leelanau County real estate from a broader national audience, reflecting the area's appeal beyond Michigan’s borders.

Key Takeaways

  • 40% of 2024 buyers were from local zip codes (Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties).

  • There’s a notable increase in out-of-state buyers, particularly from western states.

  • The trend highlights Leelanau County’s growing popularity as a destination for relocation or investment.

If you’re considering buying or selling property in Leelanau County, understanding these trends can help you make more informed decisions. Want to explore the real estate opportunities here? Contact us today!

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

2024 Leelanau Home Buyers - Cash or Financing?

In Leelanau County there were 338 residential home sales in 2024. Did they buy with cash or use financing?

In 2024, there were 338 residential home sales throughout Leelanau County. Of these, 44% were cash purchases (no mortgage), a decrease from the record high of 50% cash sales in 2023. By comparison, Grand Traverse County saw 34.3% of homes purchased with cash in 2024, nearly unchanged from 35.0% in 2023. *Fractional ownership sales are excluded from this data.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. Undisclosed sales and fractional ownership sales are not included in the data. This is for basic review purposes only. All attempts for accuracy have been made but cannot be guaranteed.

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

Current Mortgage Rates - January 2025

Annual Average 30 Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Rates

Just a quick mortgage rate update. We are now 2 weeks into 2025 and 30-year mortgage rates are currently hovering right around 6.93%. In 2024, the average monthly rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 6.72%, slightly lower than the 6.81% average mortgage rate we saw in 2023. Locally, in Leelanau County, all-cash sales without a mortgage accounted for approximately 45% of Leelanau County's 331 total home sales in 2024, marking a noticeable decrease from the 50% of all cash purchases recorded in 2023. Contact your preferred mortgage lender for more info on rates!

Monthly data dating back to 1971 can be found here: http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/

2024 Home Sales Data - Mid-Year Review

Year-To-Date Market Snapshot --> How is the Leelanau real estate market in 2024? Average sales price is up but the median sales price is flirting with it's first decline since 2009.....

Year-To-Date Market Snapshot --> How is the Grand Traverse County real estate market in 2024? Price growth has slowed this year but all data is still trending up!

2023 Leelanau County Year-End Vacant Land Sales Data

2023 Leelanau County Year-End Vacant Land Sales Data

Units Sold: -39.93%
Volume Sold: -34.92%

(click photos below to enlarge)

Introduction: Discover the latest trends in Leelanau County's vacant land market with our detailed analysis of the 2023 year-end sales data. In this report, we delve into key statistics, including units sold and volume sold, current vacant land inventory levels, and we providing valuable insights into the real estate landscape in Leelanau County.

Overview: The data presented covers the period from January 1 to December 31, 2023, comparing vacant land sales statistics from 2013 to 2023 across various townships, including Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City in the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

Market Trends: Following a remarkable year in 2021, both 2022 and 2023 witnessed a return to the historical average for vacant land sales. The graphs illustrate a decline in units sold by 39.93% and a decrease in volume sold by 34.92%, reflecting a market correction after the record-setting sales of the previous year.

Building Permits and Construction Trends: Notably, Leelanau County experienced a downturn in building permits issued and their total value in 2023. This reversal can be attributed to the increased costs of construction materials and labor, leading to a slowdown in the demand for new construction projects throughout the county.

Data Source: Our comprehensive report is based on sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. It is important to note that undisclosed sales are not included in the data, ensuring transparency and accuracy. Please be advised that this information is for basic review purposes only, and while all efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, it cannot be guaranteed.

Contact Information: For further inquiries or to explore real estate opportunities in Leelanau County, feel free to contact Jonathan Oltersdorf of Oltersdorf Realty, LLC at:

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions in the Leelanau County real estate market by following us on social media!

What did Leelanau County Home Buyers Purchase in 2023?

Exploring Leelanau County Real Estate Trends in 2023

Discover the latest insights into Leelanau County's real estate market with a focus on key statistics from 2023. Gain valuable information about home sales, pricing trends, and the most active townships in the region.

In 2023, Leelanau County witnessed a dynamic real estate landscape, with notable trends shaping the housing market. A staggering 62.5% of all homes sold in the county surpassed the $500,000 mark, reflecting a robust market for higher-end properties.

Pricing Dynamics: The predominant price range for home sales in Leelanau County during 2023 was $400,000-$500,000, indicating a significant demand for homes within this bracket. Following closely, the $300,000-$400,000 range also garnered substantial attention, showcasing a diverse range of properties catering to varying budget preferences.

Township Analysis: Among the Leelanau County townships, 2 stood out as the leader in residential real estate sales volume for 2023. Explore the following options and identify the township that experienced the highest real estate activity:

  1. Elmwood

  2. Glen Arbor

  3. Suttons Bay

  4. Leland

  5. Empire

Conclusion: As you delve into the Leelanau County real estate landscape, these insights provide a comprehensive overview of the market dynamics in 2023. Whether you're interested in pricing trends or discovering the most active townships, this information serves as a valuable resource for anyone navigating the local housing market. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions in your real estate endeavors in Leelanau County by following Oltersdorf Realty on Facebook or Instagram.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. Undisclosed sales and fractional ownership sales are not included in the data. This is for basic review purposes only. All attempts for accuracy have been made but cannot be guaranteed.

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

Leelanau County Real Estate Performance vs. S&P 500: A Comprehensive Analysis

Leelanau County Real Estate Performance vs. S&P 500: A Comprehensive Analysis

Curious about how the Leelanau County Housing Market stacks up against the S&P 500 since 2006? Dive into the chart below for a detailed comparison of the annual average and median home sales prices in Leelanau County spanning from 2006 to 2023, juxtaposed with the year-end closing prices of the S&P 500 on December 31 each year. Explore the data and gain insights into Leelanau County's real estate trends.

2023 Leelanau Home Buyers - Cash or Financing?

 

In Leelanau County there were 357 residential home sales in 2023. Did they buy with cash or use financing?

In Leelanau County there were 357 residential home sales in 2023. 50% of all home purchases in 2023 in Leelanau County were bought with cash, up from 39% in 2022. This compares to Grand Traverse County which saw 35% of the houses bought with cash in 2023, up from 34% in 2022….

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS. Undisclosed sales and fractional ownership sales are not included in the data. This is for basic review purposes only. All attempts for accuracy have been made but cannot be guaranteed.

Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, LLC
Phone: 231-271-7777
E-mail: jonathan@oltersdorf.com 

Current Mortgage Rates - January 2024

Annual Average 30 Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Rates

After historically low mortgage rates in 2021 it was not a surprise to see mortgage rates rise in 2022 as the fed fought inflation and the 10 year treasury rates increased throughout the year. However, it was very much a surprise to see mortgage rates in Leelanau County and throughout the nation climb to as high as almost 8% at one point in 2023 before declining slightly to end the year. We finished 2023 with a monthly average mortgage rate of about 6.81% which was the highest since 2006!

Monthly data dating back to 1971 can be found here: http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/

Leelanau Vacant Land Inventory Update - Fall 2023

12/1/2023 Leelanau County Vacant Land Inventory UPDATE! Although home inventory increased a small amount this year, vacant land inventory in Leelanau County remains at it's lowest level in 20+ years with just 120 available parcels on the market compared to 500+ parcels for sale in the summer of 2020 and nearly 1,000 parcels for sale during the summer of 2014!

Leelanau Home Inventory Update - Fall 2023

11/29/23 Leelanau County Home Inventory UPDATE! Good news, inventory actually increased in 2023!!! Throughout 2016-2020 we saw between 325-450 active houses on the market in the peak of summer, that number dropped to just 125 during the summer of 2021 and the summer of 2022 but INCREASED to about 175 available houses during the summer of 2023. This summer we went from 1-2 months up to 2-3 months of inventory of residential real estate in Leelanau County. Months of inventory is the relationship of sales pace to the number of properties currently on the market if no additional homes were added to the supply. Most economist agree that 6 months of inventory is a balanced market, less is a Seller’s market, and more than 6 months is a Buyer’s market. Note: The data is only for Leelanau County.