Published March 14, 2024

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

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Written by Geno D'Angelo

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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