WHAT
Unique in both size and location, this spectacular offering is a Leelanau Peninsula dream with many potential uses. Situated between Traverse City and Suttons Bay, this contiguous 184-acre parcel is a mile-long measure of rolling hills, evergreen forests, and sweeping countryside vistas. For the orchard grower: this property is home to a 62+ acre actively maintained orchard with over 7300 healthy cherry trees – a Northern Michigan specialty! Near to the Leelanau County Wine Trail, this parcel could easily be reimagined as a spectacular vineyard. For the individual: this is a legacy estate in the making, offering the privacy and charm of a rural setting, yet proximate to all of Leelanau’s most desirable destinations. Lastly, for the developer: this large-format property is zoned rural residential and has been approved by Bingham Township for a site condominium project of 78 residential units, 2+ acres each. Although presently farmed and undivided the proposed “Leelanau Estates” is ripe with opportunity.
WHERE
Just south of the Village of Suttons Bay, and a quick drive to Traverse City. Near the Leelanau Wine Trail.
WHY
This may be the last large, continuous high and dry parcels of land on the Leelanau Peninsula.
This exceptional property will appeal to 3 distinct markets. For the buyer looking for the ultimate estate size-parcel in a superior location, this could be it. For the buyer who wishes to continue the culture of farming, and potentially enjoy the financial benefits of tree depreciation and qualified agricultural exemption, with the added benefit of having the orchard maintained by a local fruit grower, this is a smart buy. Vintners should look closely at the topography, soil borings, and the location. The site condominium plan called “Leelanau Estates” was approved in 2009. Since that time the township has adopted a clustered development plan so other configurations with larger parcels sizes and fewer roads is a viable option.
Other details: The parcel is zoned Rural Residential, with minimum lot size is 2 acres. There is 990 feet of road frontage as well as a 66-foot easement to Erdt Rd. Residential, agricultural and recreational uses are legally permissible. Utilities available to the site include natural gas, electricity and telephone. There are two commercial water wells near the road that are not in use. Hunting is reported to be quite good.