Navigating the True Costs of Living in Bay Harbor, Northern Michigan

From a mining and cement plant that scarred over 1200 acres of land on the shores of Lake Michigan to a luxurious residential community, Bay Harbor has made an incredible transformation. Many people have no idea about everything Bay Harbor offers but also the cost to get it! Hi, I am Geno D’Angelo, a local Northern Michigan real estate agent helping you make the move to Northern Michigan. Today we are going to do a deep dive into Bay Harbor

Bay Harbor Offerings and Lifestyle

Bay Harbor isn't just a place to live; it's a lifestyle. With more than 20 different neighborhoods, 5 miles of waterfront, over 100 public boat docks, and 100 private "dockominiums," this community offers a blend of opulence and natural beauty. The amenities include three 9-hole golf courses, a Swim and Fitness Center, Yacht Club, Marina, and Spa.

Swim and Fitness Center

For those fitness enthusiasts, the Swim and Fitness Center provides an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The membership includes a $4k initiation fee at closing and approximately $1850 per year.

Yacht Club

Bay Harbor's Yacht Club is a hub of exclusive activities. With a $45k initiation fee, $1000 annual capital dues, and $6850 for annual dues prorated to the closing date, members enjoy tennis, platform tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball courts. The club also features a private beach with complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats. With over 1300 events every year, it hosts a variety of activities from holiday celebrations to musical festivals and kids carnivals.

Marina

The Marina offers a range of services, including private showers, restrooms, coin laundry, electric and water hook-up, Wi-Fi, dockside sanitary pump, dock carts, and concierge services. Boat launch and trailer parking, as well as bicycle rentals, contribute to a complete boating experience.

Real Estate in Bay Harbor

Median Prices:

• Standalone Home: $2,075,000
• Condo: $635,000

Notable Sales:

• Highest Condo Sale: $4,000,000 (8 bed, 8 bath penthouse)
• Highest Overall Sale: Over $13 million, 15,000 sq. ft., 6 beds, 6 baths, 130 ft. of frontage with six fireplaces

Dues: 

Range from $6,000 to $14,000 per year, depending on the community within Bay Harbor

• Additional costs include taxes, mortgage, insurance, and membership fees for amenities like the Yacht Club or Swim Club

Membership Types

Bay Harbor offers various membership types, including Resident, Non-resident, Annual, Winter, and Legacy memberships. Residents can own multiple properties but only need one membership.

Downtown Bay Harbor

Downtown Bay Harbor is a thriving community with restaurants such as Nomad, Maple and Batter, Vintage in the Inn at Bay Harbor, and Knot Just A Bar. You'll find clothing boutiques, a candy store, a hair salon, a bank, and a Center for the Arts that hosts hundreds of events each year, including concerts, ballets, and educational programs.

In conclusion, Bay Harbor is a place where luxury meets natural beauty, offering a plethora of amenities and activities. However, the true cost of living here depends on the specific community within Bay Harbor and the lifestyle you desire. If you're considering making Bay Harbor your home, understanding these costs and memberships is crucial for a seamless transition. Feel free to reach out to me at 231-487-6141 for more information or assistance in exploring Bay Harbor's real estate offerings.

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