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/

13801 E Ingalls Bay Road, Omena – NEW LISTING

Discover this exquisite custom home boasting high-quality finishes and breathtaking western facing sunset water views across Ingalls Bay! The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring quality extra-tall cherry cabinetry, top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, Quartz countertops, and new ceramic tile backsplash added in 2021. The open great room is adorned with large windows and a stone-accented natural fireplace and impressive cathedral ceilings offering ever-changing scenery and panoramic bay views. Additional impeccable details include a main floor master bedroom with private access to the waterside deck, main floor laundry, elegant oak flooring, solid custom wood 2-panel interior doors, and built-ins throughout which add to the home's charm. Step outside onto the magnificent 1,000+ sq. ft. waterside composite deck or within the 16'x10' screened-in porch for your morning coffee or an evening of entertaining friends and family. The cedar-sided exterior, cedar shake accents, and Tongue & Groove cedar finished soffits enhance the home's timeless appeal. This property offers convenience and functionality with its finished 2.5 car attached garage, and an additional spacious workshop prepped with a gas line and a half bath with a utility sink. A partial basement with a cement crawl space houses the mechanical systems. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's a prepped outdoor shower on the side of the home and a backup gas generator for peace of mind. The thoughtfully designed floor plan even allows for a potential addition, making it ideal for those looking for more space in the future. This fantastic Omena property is suitable for year-round living or as a luxurious 2nd home retreat!

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/

3275 N Omena Point Road, Omena – SOLD

SOLD OMENA BAY WATERFRONT HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 8/4/2022
3275 N Omena Point Road, Omena, MI – Ranch Home with 100’ of Southern Facing Frontage on Omena Bay!  
Asking Price: $1,150,000

Rarely available and highly desirable southern facing private frontage on Omena Bay within walking distance of charming and historic downtown Omena! Featured in the Parade of Homes at the time of construction, this beautiful custom built ranch home features an open great room with hardwood flooring, vaulted ceilings, 2 sided gas fireplace, a large kitchen island, a spacious main floor master suite, main floor laundry, and natural gas forced air heat with a/c. A full unfinished basement offers tall ceilings, an egress window, and rough plumbing for a 3rd full bath with potential for an additional bedroom and extra finished living space. Step outside to a heated 2 car attached garage with its own ½ bath, 0.78 acres, 2 additional storage buildings, and dock (included). The private beach is ideal for swimming, boating, relaxation, bonfires, and offers picturesque southern views of the clean turquoise waters of Omena Bay. Fantastic location for a year-round home, vacation property, or potentially a short term vacation rental in Leelanau County!

2022 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2022 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

Lake Michigan Water Levels Down -26 Inches in 24 Months

For the 2nd 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 -18 inches lower compared to this time in 2021 and -26 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 14, 2022                   579.43 feet

Difference from January 14, 2021: -18 inches

Difference from long term average: +12 inches

Difference from highest monthly average (2020): -26 inches

Difference from lowest monthly average (2013): +41 inches

Projected change in levels by Feb 14, 2022:  -1 inches

Click here to open/download the full report for the current month:
http://lre-wm.usace.army.mil/reports/GreatLakes/GLWL-CurrentMonth-Feet.pdf

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/

2021 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2021 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

Some good news 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 last year. 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 15, 2021.  

January 15, 2021                   580.97 feet

Difference from January 15, 2020: -7 inches
Difference from long term average: +31 inches
Difference from highest monthly average (1987): -4 inches
Difference from lowest monthly average (2013): +59 inches
Projected change in levels by Feb 15, 2021: -1 inches

Click here to open/download the full report for the current month:
http://lre-wm.usace.army.mil/reports/GreatLakes/GLWL-CurrentMonth-Feet.pdf

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/

4751 N Panoramic Drive, Omena – SOLD

SOLD OMENA FARMHOUSE & WATERFRONT

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 9/15/2020
4751 N Panoramic Drive, Omena, MI – Farmhouse with 160’ on Omena Bay & ~6.5+ Acres!
Asking Price: $575,000

This classic farmhouse enjoys fully controlled Omena Bay water views and 160’of private Omena Bay waterfrontage on a rarely available ~6.50+ acre partially wooded parcel within a short walk to Downtown Omena! The charming home features 2,169 sq ft of finished living area, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, den, lovely oversized screened-in porch, 3 fireplaces, hardwood flooring, a cozy kitchen with quartz countertops, reclaimed brick flooring, and a wood stove, main floor laundry/pantry, gas forced air and in-floor radiant heating, unfinished basement, low maintenance vinyl siding, generator, and a newer metal roof! Step outside to the beautifully landscaped grounds, a 32’x32’ garage, workshop, storage shed, and the ~6.50 spectacular acres offering unlimited potential for outdoor recreation surrounded by wildlife. Dock your boat and enjoy swimming from your own 160’ beachfront within sight of Knot Just A Bar, the Post Office, and the very friendly Omena community! 

2020 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

2020 Current Lake Michigan Water Levels

If you are 5’6” or shorter and stood at the water’s edge of Lake Michigan in 2013 and then stood in the exact same spot this week, your entire head would now be completely underwater. Water levels are now +66” above the record low levels of 2013.

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 17, 2020.  

January 17, 2020                   581.53 feet

Difference from January 17, 2019                             +18 inches
Difference from long term average:                          +37 inches
Difference from highest monthly average (1987):  +3 inches
Difference from lowest monthly average (2013):    +66 inches
Projected change in levels by Feb 17, 2020:           -1 inches

Click here to open/download the full report for the current month:
http://lre-wm.usace.army.mil/reports/GreatLakes/GLWL-CurrentMonth-Feet.pdf

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/

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales: January to September

The 2017 3rd quarter (January 1 – September 30) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2017 through September 30, 2017 to the same time period in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2017 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume has increased a +11.29% compared to this time last year and total houses sold has increased +7.04% over last year. Average sales price has increased +3.97% and Median Sales Price has increased +0.16%.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS from 2011-2017. Undisclosed 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

2017 Leelanau County Home Sales: January - June

The 2017 2nd quarter (January 1 – June 30) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017 to the same time period in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2017 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume has increased a +14.96% compared to this time last year and total houses sold has increased +5.43% over last year. Average sales price has increased +9.03% and Median Sales Price has increased +0.72%.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS from 2011-2017. Undisclosed 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

4366 N Omena Point Road, Omena – SOLD

SOLD OMENA WATERFRONT HOME

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 7/28/2017
4366 N Omena Point Road, Omena, MI - 100' of Private Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay
Asking Price: $620,000

Nestled within a peaceful natural wooded 1.50 acre setting this year-round architecturally designed cedar sided home enjoys an exceptional 100’ x 619’+ private direct waterfront lot on Grand Traverse Bay! This beautiful home includes 2300 sq. ft. of finished living area, tongue & groove cathedral ceilings and exposed beams throughout, an open great room, 3.5 baths, wood flooring, natural fireplace and gas stove, sunroom, 2 car attached and a 1 car detached garage, large brick paver waterside patio and cedar deck! Quiet desirable location on a paved county maintained road with optional membership available in the Omena Woods Association!

5290 N Omena Point Road, Omena - SOLD

SOLD OMENA WATERFRONT HOME

LISTING SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 5/30/2017
5290 N Omena Point Road, Omena, MI – 100’ of Private Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay
Asking Price: $595,000

Nestled within a peaceful natural wooded setting this year-round home offers 100’ of private sandy beach frontage on Grand Traverse Bay, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2250+ sq ft, large living room with cathedral ceilings and a stone fireplace, loft/study, formal and informal dining areas, main floor waterside master bedroom suite, granite kitchen countertops, 3 season porch, attached 2 car garage, and so much more on a 0.88 acre private lot!

12555 E Tatch Road, Omena – SOLD

SOLD OMENA HOME

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 4/21/2017
12555 E Tatch Road, Omena, MI - 4 Bedroom Home + Large Workshop
Asking Price: $185,000

Desirable one floor living is offered throughout this large move-in ready ranch home featuring 3,000+ sq ft of finished living space, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, open kitchen/living room with a freestanding gas stove, spacious master bedroom suite with a walk-in closet & private bath, 430 sq ft hobby/sewing room, 750 sq ft heated workshop, and an oversized 40x24 attached heated garage! The beautiful 3.22 acre countryside setting also features a sprinkler system, gardens, 2 storage sheds, composite deck, covered porch, and is within walking distance to dinner & the beach in downtown Omena!

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS NEW LISTING!

2017 Leelanau County Home Sales January-March

The 2017 first quarter (January 1 – March 31) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017 to the same time period in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2017 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume has increased a +22.41% compared to this time last year and total houses sold has increased +5.71% over last year. Average sales price has increased +15.79% and Median Sales Price has increased +2.98%. The first quarter is by far the slowest 3 months of real estate sales in Leelanau County, especially with upper price ranges and waterfront property on West Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and Lake Leelanau.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Northern Great Lakes Realtors MLS from 2011-2017. Undisclosed 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

7156 N W Bay Shore Drive, Northport - SOLD

SOLD NORTHPORT WATERFRONT PARCEL

LISTED & SOLD by Oltersdorf Realty LLC on 2/10/2017
7156 N W Bay Shore Drive, Northport, MI – Vacant 150’ of Sandy Frontage on Grand Traverse Bay
Asking Price: $385,000

Beautiful wooded waterfront building site featuring 150’ of private direct sandy bottom frontage on Grand Traverse Bay, 1.67+ private acres, shared pond & creek, natural gas & cable high speed internet available, and a private drive shared with only 2 other homes located just north of Omena well off of M-22! The property corners have been marked and the parcel is ready for your dream home!

2016 Leelanau County Year-End Home Sales

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales
Year-End Totals

The 2016 year end (January 1 – December 31) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016 to the same time period in 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume increased +24.16% over last year's numbers, Units Sold increased +16.01%, Average Sales Price increased +7.20%, and Median Sales Price increased +3.51%.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Traverse Area Multiple Listing Service from 2010-2016. Undisclosed 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

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales: January - September

The 2016 3rd quarter (January 1 – September 30) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2016 through September 30, 2016 to the same time period in 2015,2014,2013,2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

Compared to this time last year 2016 Leelanau County Home Sales Average Price has increased +8.40%, Median Sales Price is up +5.35%, Total Sales Volume is up +28.84%, and Total Units sold has increased +18.85%. 

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Traverse Area Multiple Listing Service from 2011-2016. Undisclosed 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

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales January-June

The 2016 2nd quarter (January 1 – June 30) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2016 through June 30, 2016 to the same time period in 2015,2014,2013,2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

Compared to this time last year 2016 Leelanau County Home Sales Average Price has increased +14.26%, Median Sales Price is up +14.54%, Total Sales Volume is up +22.32%, and Total Units sold has increased +7.05%. 

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Traverse Area Multiple Listing Service from 2011-2016. Undisclosed 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

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales January - March

The 2016 first quarter (January 1 – March 31) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2016 through March 31, 2016 to the same time period in 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2016 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume has decreased a -0.70% compared to this time last year and total houses sold has decreased -5.47% over 2015's total houses sold. Average sales price has increased 5.05% and Median Sales Price has increased +2.54%. The first quarter is by far the slowest 3 months of real estate sales in Leelanau County, especially with upper price ranges and waterfront property on West Grand Traverse Bay & Lake Michigan.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Traverse Area Multiple Listing Service from 2011-2016. Undisclosed 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

2015 Leelanau County Year End Home Sales

The 2015 year end (January 1 – December 31) home sales data have been posted in the charts above. The home sales statistics compare real estate housing sold in Leelanau County from January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015 to the same time period in 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2010. This includes the townships of Bingham, Centerville, Cleveland, Elmwood, Empire, Glen Arbor, Kasson, Leelanau, Leland, Solon, Suttons Bay, and the City of Traverse City within the southeast corner of Leelanau County.

2015 Leelanau County Home Sales Volume decreased -0.23% over 2014's record setting figures and total units/houses sold was up +1.00%. The average sales price has decreased -1.21% and median sales price increased +3.63% over last year. Overall 2015 was a great year for real estate sales in Leelanau County but the unbelievable growth in Grand Traverse County in 2015 is hard to ignore.

This report is based upon sales information obtained from the Traverse Area Multiple Listing Service from 2010-2015. Undisclosed 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