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

Lot 6 – N Indian Camp Road, Northport – SOLD

SOLD GRAND TRAVERSE BAY WATERFORNT LOT

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 11/19/2025
$720,000 – Lot 6 – N Indian Camp Road, Northport, MI – Vacant Parcel with 104’ of Direct Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay!  

Dreaming of a peaceful waterfront location to build your vacation retreat or forever home in Leelanau County? Hitting the market for the first time since 1961, this ~1.18-acre vacant parcel offers 104 feet of private, direct frontage on Grand Traverse Bay—complete with unique views of Gull Island. The land is level, untouched, adorned with mature towering trees, and is accessed by a private dead-end road. A recently completed soil evaluation (perc test) confirms suitability for a traditional on-site septic system. High-speed fiber internet was installed along the road in spring 2025. With no known deed restrictions, you’ve got the freedom to bring your vision to life. Situated just 2.5 miles south of the charming Village of Northport and within a short drive of all the amenities of Traverse City! Vacant building sites on Grand Traverse Bay are becoming quite hard to find, don’t miss out on this one!

Lot 134 – N Cherrywood Ct, Northport – SOLD.

SOLD AFFORDABLE NORTHPORT VACANT LOT

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 8/22/2025
$29,000 Lot 134 – N Cherrywood Ct, Northport, MI – Vacant Parcel within 1400’ of Sandy Grand Traverse Bay Access!

Nice location tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac within Cherry Home Shores! This beautiful, 0.26 acre affordable wooded building site offers level terrain, perc test/site survey showing suitable conditions for a septic system and is situated just ~1400 feet from sandy beach access on Grand Traverse Bay! Cherry Homes association amenities include hiking trails, 4 waterfront parks with shared access to Grand Traverse Bay, clubhouse with tennis/basketball courts, playground, and dues of only $65/year! No short-term rentals are allowed. All association info can be found at: https://cherryhomeshores.com/

10895 N Shore Drive, Northport – SOLD

SOLD VILLAGE OF NORTHPORT RANCH HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 7/7/2025
$410,000 - 10895 N Shore Dr, Northport, MI
2 Bedroom Ranch on 1 Acre in the Village of Northport!

Tucked away in a quiet location at the northern edge of the Village of Northport, this peaceful ranch offers a rare price point for one of Leelanau County’s most desirable communities. Just a quick 1-mile bike/walk from Northport’s vibrant waterfront park, beaches, marina, shops, restaurants, library, schools, and more—you’re close to it all, yet tucked away on a ~0.80 acre parcel of land. This cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers approximately 1,262 square feet of living space, a large 2 car detached garage, rear screened-in porch, municipal sewer (with a small assessment still in place), and a private well. Whether you're looking for a year-round home, a vacation getaway, or an investment with upside, this one checks all the boxes. The home offers plenty of potential for updates and improvements, offering the perfect canvas for your vision. Northport is a welcoming, artsy village nestled on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, at the northern edge of picturesque Leelanau County. It's a gateway for boating, beaches, hiking, and all things lakeside living. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Up North charm. Note: Square footage and acreage are approximate.

Lot 69 – E Cherry Park Drive, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT VACANT LOT

SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 5/29/2025
$40,000 – Lot 69 – E Cherry Park Drive, Northport, Northport, MI – Vacant Parcel within 1300’ of Sandy Grand Traverse Bay Access!

Nice location tucked away on a quiet street within Cherry Home Shores! This beautiful, 0.36 acre affordable wooded building site offers easy level terrain, perc test/site survey showing suitable conditions for a septic system and is situated just ~1300 feet from sandy beach access on Grand Traverse Bay! Cherry Homes association amenities include hiking trails, 4 waterfront parks with shared access to Grand Traverse Bay, clubhouse with tennis/basketball courts, playground, and dues of only $65/year! No short-term rentals are allowed. All association info can be found at: https://cherryhomeshores.com/

2025 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2025 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

Lake Michigan Water Levels Down -10 Inches in Past 12 Months

After several years of Lake Michigan water levels holding steady we are now starting to see a noticeable drop in Lake Michigan / Grand Traverse Bay water levels in 2025 as they have decreased 10 inches from this time last year.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers collects and publishes current / past Lake Michigan water level data which is very important to many property owners in Leelanau County & Grand Traverse County who own real estate on Lake Michigan or Grand Traverse Bay. Their last reading took place on January 10, 2025.  

January 10, 2025                   578.02 feet

Difference from January 10, 2024: -10 inches

Difference from long term average: -6 inches

Difference from highest monthly average (2020): -43 inches

Difference from lowest monthly average (2013): +24 inches

Projected change in levels by Feb 10, 2025: - 1 inch

For more information on current & past historic records regarding the Great Lakes Water Levels please visit: http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/Great-Lakes-Information/Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/Water-Level-Forecast/Weekly-Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/

9.70 Acres – E Wood How Lane, Northport - SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT ACREAGE

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 9/16/2024
9.70 Acres – E Wood How Lane, Northport, MI – Beautiful wooded building site at the northern end of Leelanau County!
$180,000

This quiet and tranquil 9.70 acre mature wooded parcel provides unmatched privacy with the convenience of a county-maintained roadway and enjoys flat and rolling terrain ideal for building a new home with a walk out basement! Newly installed Fiber Optics line has just been installed on E Wood How Lane. Soil tests by LCHD have been completed and on file for installation of a Septic System.  Natural gas is available on N Lighthouse Point Road. Wonderful area of quality homes just 6 miles north of the Village of Northport and nearby numerous Lake Michigan beaches, and hiking trails! The parcel backs to lots within the Cherry Homes Development, an adjoining vacant lot and home within Cherry Homes Development is currently available (mls 1924231). 

13121 N Knollwood Drive, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT AFFORDABLE HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 9/10/2024
13121 N Knollwood Drive, Northport, MI – 3 Bedroom & 2 Bath Ranch Home on 2 lots!
 
$253,000

This well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home is nestled within a very private wooded setting offering 988 sq ft of finished living area and additional full unfinished walkout basement with potential to double the size of living area!  Home offering includes a second adjoining buildable lot.  Affordable living and an ideal location for a primary or vacation home within the very desirable Cherry Homes Development which offers wonderful amenities, 4 waterfront parks with access to Grand Traverse Bay/Lake Michigan, a community center, hiking trails, paved publicly maintained roads, tennis/pickle ball court and more! Natural gas and high speed internet is available! All association info can be found at: https://cherryhomeshores.com/ , short term rentals are not allowed.

2024 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2024 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

Lake Michigan Water Levels Up +1 Inch in 12 Months

For the 4th year in a row the good news continues for many waterfront property owners on Lake Michigan as the most recent readings indicate that water levels are now holding steady and just +1 inches higher compared to this time in 2023 and -32 inches lower than this time in 2020! January 2020 - July 2020 saw record high water levels on Lake Michigan which caused massive investment in shoreline protection throughout Leelanau County and the region.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers collects and publishes current / past Lake Michigan water level data which is very important to many property owners in Leelanau County & Grand Traverse County who own real estate on Lake Michigan or Grand Traverse Bay. Their last reading took place on January 12, 2024.  

January 12, 2024                   578.90 feet

Difference from January 12, 2023: +1 inch

Difference from long term average: +5 inches

Difference from highest monthly average (2020): -32 inches

Difference from lowest monthly average (2013): +35 inches

Projected change in levels by Feb 12, 2024:  -1 inches

For more information on current & past historic records regarding the Great Lakes Water Levels please visit: http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/Great-Lakes-Information/Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/Water-Level-Forecast/Weekly-Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/

320 S Shabwasung Street, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT AFFORDABLE HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 11/3/2023
320 S Shabwasung Street, Northport, MI
Affordable Fixer-Upper within the Village of Northport!
$198,500

Escape to the charming coastal Village of Northport with this cozy bungalow offered at a rare price point for this vibrant community! Whether you're seeking an owner-occupied residence, a vacation retreat, or an investment property, this home offers a unique opportunity you won't want to miss. Northport is a quaint, artistic coastal Village located along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay at the Northern tip of scenic Leelanau County and your gateway to boating, fishing, outdoor and lakeside enjoyment. Situated just steps from the Community Center and the Village waterfront park, entertainment, a swimming pool, shopping, library, restaurants, bakery, marina, schools and convenience! This cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath bungalow offers 598 sq ft of living space, municipal water, and sewer (assessment paid in full). Relax and unwind in the enclosed back porch perfect for enjoying morning coffee or evening breezes.  This home is being sold in "as-is" condition, offering the perfect canvas for your vision. Great potential for those looking to invest in a thriving community and to own a piece of Leelanau County charm!

Lot 166 - N Forest Beach Shores, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATERFRONT LOT

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 4/6/2023
Lot 166 - N Forest Beach Shores, Northport, MI – Vacant Parcel with 50’ of Direct Sandy Private Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay!
Asking Price: $189,000

Experience the beauty of waterfront living with this stunning property that offers 50 feet of direct sandy private frontage and breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay! The vacant building site gradually slopes down to the water's edge, making it the ideal location for those seeking a serene spot for a primary or vacation home in Leelanau County. Rest assured, a recent soil evaluation has been conducted to ensure the suitability of a traditional on-site septic system. Located in the Cherry Home Shores development, this property is conveniently situated near the end of a quiet, low-traffic, and paved county-maintained road. The neighborhood offers a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, tennis and basketball courts, natural gas, and high-speed internet and cable TV. This is the perfect place to relax and take in the picturesque views of the private frontage on Grand Traverse Bay! Lot location is just north of 14240 N Forest Beach Drive, Northport. All association info can be found at: https://cherryhomeshores.com/ , short term rentals are not allowed.

2023 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2023 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

Lake Michigan Water Levels Down -7 Inches in 12 Months

For the 3rd year in a row the good news continues for many waterfront property owners on Lake Michigan as the most recent readings indicate that water levels are now -7 inches lower compared to this time in 2022 and -32 inches lower than this time in 2020! January 2020 - July 2020 saw record high water levels on Lake Michigan.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers collects and publishes current / past Lake Michigan water level data which is very important to many property owners in Leelanau County & Grand Traverse County who own real estate on Lake Michigan or Grand Traverse Bay. Their last reading took place on January 14, 2022.  

January 13, 2023                   578.87 feet

Difference from January 13, 2022: -7 inches

Difference from long term average: +5 inches

Difference from highest monthly average (2020): -32 inches

Difference from lowest monthly average (2013): +34 inches

Projected change in levels by Feb 13, 2023:  -1 inches

For more information on current & past historic records regarding the Great Lakes Water Levels please visit: http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/Great-Lakes-Information/Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/Water-Level-Forecast/Weekly-Great-Lakes-Water-Levels/

11568 E Casperson Road, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATER VIEW HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 1/6/2023
11568 E Casperson Road, Northport, MI – 3 Bedroom Home on 8.67 Acres with Year-Round Bay Views!
Asking Price: $459,000

Incredible year-round picture-perfect Bay views are enjoyed from throughout this charming turn-key vacation retreat or primary home situated on 8.67 acres! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home features 1,300+ sq ft of finished living area, an open great room with vaulted ceilings and cherry hardwood flooring, a cozy wood burning natural fireplace, spacious waterside composite deck with views for miles, central air conditioning, gas forced air heating, newer roof, newer septic & well, cable high speed internet/tv, and so much more!  The 8.67 acre parcel offers room to roam and a variety of potential land division options, has direct pond frontage, and is situated just south of the delightful Village of Northport. Short term rentals are allowed in Leelanau Township (with a rental permit). Buyer should confirm all land division options and short term rental requirements with the zoning department. Time to start making your very own Leelanau County memories!

12063 N Foxview Drive, Northport - SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATER VIEW LOT

SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 10/6/2022
12063 N Foxview Drive, Northport, MI - 1.69 Acre Water View Lot + Lake Michigan Access
Asking Price: $475,000

Stunning western facing sunset views of Lake Michigan are enjoyed from this 1.69 acre ridge top building site within The Shores subdivision in Northport Michigan! 4,000 feet of shared water access on Lake Michigan is just steps away!

14967 N Cathead Bay Drive, Northport - SOLD

SOLD LAKE MICHIGAN WATERFRONT HOME

SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 7/15/2022
14967 N Cathead Bay Drive, Northport, MI - 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath home on 2.21 acres with 200’ of direct private frontage on Lake Michigan!

Asking Price: $1,695,000

14316 N Forest Beach Shores, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATERFRONT HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 7/8/2022
14316 N Forest Beach Shores, Northport, MI – 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Cottage with Direct Private Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay!

Sold Price: $635,000

Private direct walkout water frontage and beautiful Grand Traverse Bay water views are enjoyed from throughout this absolutely charming and well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath “Up North” cottage! Easy gradual slope lot right to the water’s edge! Significantly remodeled in 2005, the home features include an open great room with an attractive floor-to-ceiling stone wood burning fireplace, full wall of waterside Pella glass doors offering wonderful water views and an abundance of natural light, a spacious waterside oversized private master suite with vaulted ceilings, en suite bathroom & private waterside balcony, large first floor bedroom, dedicated main floor laundry/mud room, and a forced air furnace that was converted to natural gas in 2020! Step outside to the low-maintenance exterior featuring vinyl siding, waterside deck, and a welcoming screened-in porch perfect for relaxation while taking in picturesque views of your private frontage on Grand Traverse Bay! Ideal Leelanau County vacation retreat or year-round home! All association info can be found at: https://cherryhomeshores.com/ .

9021 N Carlson Road, Northport - SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT VACANT PARCEL

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 6/22/2022
9021 N Carlson Road, Northport, MI - Vacant 5.11 wooded building site with existing well & septic

Asking Price: $110,000

8580 N Bayview Avenue, Northport – SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATERFRONT HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 5/26/2022
8580 N Bayview Avenue, Northport, MI – Classic A-Frame Cottage with 165’ of Private Sandy Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay!

Sold Price: $810,000

This classic A-Frame cottage is situated on an exceptional 2.39 acre waterfront parcel featuring 165 feet of direct private sandy beach on Northport Bay and direct frontage on a beautiful flowing meandering creek! Nestled among large hardwoods & pines the cottage features 1 bedroom and an additional sleeping loft, wood cathedral ceilings & wood interior walls, floor to ceiling waterside windows, hardwood floors, and a propane gas heating stove with floor to ceiling brick chimney and metal roof. Step outside to enjoy the large waterside deck and/or the second front deck and the beautiful creek. Wonderful outbuildings include a carport, detached 24’ x 25’ garage, and a floored 18’ x 14’ storage shed. The unique winding creek that flows into Grand Traverse Bay offers potential for a variety of landscapes & walking paths/bridges, and the soft sandy beach is ideal for recreation & relaxation with picturesque views across the Bay of Northport Point! Use the A-Frame as a 2nd home vacation property, rental property, or remove the structure and build your Leelanau County dream home on this unique parcel!

E Camp Haven Road, Northport - SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT VACANT PARCEL

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 5/13/2022
E Camp Haven Road, Northport, MI - 7.70 Acre Vacant Parcel

Sold Price: $52,000