10 Essential Tips for Buying Your Summer Vacation Home in Michigan

1. Pick Your Perfect Region For Your Vacation Home

Michigan is home to a wide range of vacation destinations, each offering its own vibe. Whether you’re drawn to the wine trails and beaches of Traverse City, the artsy charm of Saugatuck, the crystal-clear waters of Torch Lake, or the peace and quiet of the Upper Peninsula, take the time to explore. Visit during different times of the year—not just peak summer—to get a feel for the town, weather, and traffic.

🍩Sweet Tip: Make buying a vacation home fun and take a week vacation to visit different cities. Airbnb can make renting a home in your interested cities easy.

2. Understand Lake Access

Just because a home is near the water doesn’t mean you’ll have easy or private access to it. Many properties advertise “lake access” but that might mean a shared path, distant beach lot, or even limited seasonal access. Make sure you understand exactly what kind of rights you’re getting—private frontage, deeded access, or public access—and how it could affect your day-to-day summer experience and property value.

🍩Sweet Tip: Ask neighbors nearby how often they use their access and if it ever gets crowded—you’ll get the real story, not just the listing spin agents listing provide when for those buying a vacation home.

4. Consider Long-Term Resale Value

Even if you plan to keep this home in the family for generations, it’s smart to consider the long-term value of your investment. Look for areas with growing tourism, strong school districts, or infrastructure improvements like new restaurants, marinas, or retail. These signals often lead to increased demand and appreciation. A home that gives you years of joy and grows in value? That’s the sweet spot.

🍩Sweet Tip: Ask your agent for comps from five years ago—if the area has appreciated steadily, you’re likely on the right track.

5. Buy A Vacation Home By Budgeting for All Seasons

Buying a vacation home means you’re responsible for it year-round, even if you only visit a few months out of the year. Think beyond the mortgage—factor in utilities, property taxes, insurance, lawn care, and snow removal. You’ll also want to winterize your home each year to avoid frozen pipes or storm damage. These “hidden” costs can catch buyers off guard if they’re not planned for up front. Don’t know where to start looking for an affordable vacation home? Take a look at these 5 affordable vacation destinations!

6. Don’t Buy A Vacation Home Without Factoring in Travel Time

The further away your vacation home is, the less likely you’ll use it regularly. A beautiful lakefront cabin won’t do you much good if it’s a seven-hour drive and feels like a burden to reach. Aim for a location that fits comfortably into your weekend or long-weekend routine. If you’re flying, consider proximity to regional airports and local transportation as well.

🍩Sweet Tip: Set a drive-time limit (e.g., 3.5 hours or less) and stick to it—you’ll be surprised how much more you use your home when it’s easy to reach.

7. Inspect for Weather Wear

Michigan’s weather can be tough—humid summers, snow-heavy winters, and lakeside storms can wear down a property over time. Before buying, schedule a thorough inspection with someone familiar with Michigan’s seasonal issues. Make sure they look for roof damage, foundation settling, drainage issues, mold, and any needed shoreline protection. Spending a little more now on a quality inspection can save you thousands in repairs down the line.

8. Think Rental Potential

If you’re not planning to use your vacation home every week, short-term rentals can be a great way to generate extra income. Look into local regulations—some Michigan towns have banned or restricted Airbnb-style rentals, while others require permits or occupancy limits. Also research seasonal demand and comparable listings to see what you could realistically earn during peak summer months. Even a few weeks of rentals could help offset annual costs. Take a look at some Airbnb tips.

🍩Sweet Tip: When buying a vacation home invest in tasteful furnishings and cozy touches—vacationers will pay more for homes that feel welcoming and photo-worthy.

9. Check Internet and Utilities

Remote and lakeside living often means trade-offs in infrastructure. Cell service can be spotty, internet may be limited to slower satellite providers, and some properties rely on wells and septic tanks. If you plan to work remotely, stream TV, or run smart-home devices, double-check what services are available and whether any upgrades are possible.

10. Fall in Love With the Town Too

A summer home isn’t just about the structure—it’s about the entire experience. Explore the local community, from restaurants and farmers markets to hiking trails and festivals. Make sure the pace of life, the culture, and the people align with how you want to spend your summers. If you can picture yourself enjoying more than just the porch or the beach, you’ve likely found the right place.

🍩Sweet Tip: If the town makes you smile on a rainy day, it’ll bring you joy all summer long.