Michigan islands for affordable prices? Sounds too good to be true.
Of course there are those Michigan properties that only a select few can afford. For example, Granite Loma in the U.P., priced at $40 million, and Namaste near Traverse City, at roughly $795,000.
But you don't need to be rich and famous to afford your own island. It may not be hidden in some exotic international location, but the privacy and view off the coast of Southeast Michigan is certainly worth your money.
"The homes are as little as $119,000, which I think is very reasonable," said Fran Curtis, a Century 21 real estate agent.
Curtis herself experiences the affordable cost of island living. She keeps a boat or two docked at Harsen's Island, where she shares a nearby secluded home with her husband.
You don't have to be a millionaire to say you have your own island. A fixer-upper on Fisherman's Island, with 2 full acres and a private view of the sunset, ranges from $79,000 to $175,000.
Some residents say they're getting the best of both worlds with island living in Michigan.
"It's great way to be relatively close to the city, yet seem like you're up north," said Ken Podolski, a retired firefighter and Southeast Michigan island owner.
"We hardly lock our doors when we are here, not even at night." added John Childs, an island owner familiar with the remote way of life.
Just think- a large balcony with a view of Lake St. Clair on your own private island. Sound like your dream home? It could all be yours for a little more than $100,000.