Scoop Up These For-Sale Great Lakes Cottages Before the Temps (and Prices!) Rise

In the summer, the Great Lakes are freshwater beach retreats (with more moderate temperatures), and in the winter, these northern shores are a wintry wonderland of wild waves and fresh powder. The Great Lakes are even home to Coastal Living’s 2017 Happiest Seaside Town, Grand Haven, Michigan! Escaping to these inland waterfronts—whether for the summer or the whole year—is easier than you might expect, and these houses (listed for as low as $209,900) show that dreamy coastal retreats come in all styles and price points.

#1: Black Beauty, $209,900

In downtown Petoskey, Michigan, this 2,270-square-foot house is less than a mile from the shores of Lake Michigan and the Petoskey City Marina. The property was recently renovated, but it maintains its original hardwood floors, crown molding, and high ceilings. This house has four bedrooms and two and a half baths, including a lower-level studio apartment. The 1-acre lot also holds an unfinished guest house.

#2: Relaxed Ranch, $229,600

This cozy brick-front house boasts a basement, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a half-acre lot. It sits just off of Lake Charlevoix, a short drive from downtown Charlevoix, Michigan, and Lake Michigan. The house’s open living spaces and kitchen are recently updated, and the finished basement offers even more room, for a grand total of 2,800 square feet.

#3: Bright and Bold, $249,000

Photo: Courtesy of Trulia
Photo: Courtesy of Trulia

Just outside the heart of Traverse City, Michigan, this cheery townhouse is only a short walk from the waters of Grand Traverse Bay and within easy access of sandy beaches in Traverse City. The end-unit condo has granite counters, ceramic tile, and wood floors; it also has three bedrooms and three full bathrooms, with 1,226 square feet.

#4: Renovated Cottage, $318,000

This house, built in 1900, has undergone a complete renovation. It now offers an open floor plan, hardwood floors, and new paneled ceilings. The updated kitchen has an oversized bar, an island, and butcher block countertops, and the lot has been beautifully landscaped. Located in Suttons Bay, Michigan, this 2-bed, 1-bath house has 1,102 square feet and is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach.

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All images courtesy of Trulia