Where to Find Lakefront Property in Western Michigan

“Pure Michigan” is more than a tourism promotion – it is also a way of life. Michigan is well-known for its natural beauty – and particularly its many freshwater lakes. These lakes are a great place to both live and play, making lakefront property an attractive option for Michiganders.

Finding lakefront property in Western Michigan requires a bit of thought and planning. Before embarking on your search, you should have a good idea of your needs and budget. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you should then do your research and ask a lot of questions to make sure that you are making a good investment. Our construction and real estate team can work with you to help you find the perfect piece of property to build your Western Michigan lakefront home.

Based in Grandville, Snowden Builders has constructed high-end, premier quality custom homes in Western Michigan for more than three generations. We pride ourselves in using the finest craftsmanship and materials for each build – as well as offering a customer-focused approach. If you’re contemplating purchasing a lakefront property to build a custom home, we can assist you with evaluating your options. Reach out today to talk to a West Michigan custom home builder about your plans to build a beautiful house on your lakefront lot.

What to Consider Before Buying Lakefront Property

Living on a lake is a dream for many Michiganders. In addition to bordering 4 of the 5 Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie – Michigan is also home to more than 11,000 inland lakes. This includes more than 50 lakes within just a few miles of Grand Rapids.

There are a lot of great reasons to own a lakefront home, whether you want to make it your full-time residence or have it as a weekend retreat. Lakefront property can be a great investment that will appreciate over time. It also offers so many intangible benefits, like the deep relaxation you experience when sitting out on your deck overlooking the water with your friends and family.

Of course, buying lakefront property does present some different issues compared to buying a landlocked piece of land. You should have a good understanding of exactly what you want before embarking on a search for property. You should also take the time to research the aspects of waterfront property that are different from property that isn’t on the water.

Environmental Considerations

One of the biggest concerns with a waterfront property is flooding. Waterfront properties are often located in flood zones, and if you’re mortgaging the property, you will be required to purchase flood insurance. Even if you’re buying the property in cash, it’s still worth buying flood insurance to protect your investment. You’ll want to take the risk of flooding and the cost of flood insurance into account when deciding whether or not to purchase waterfront property. 

Flooding isn’t the only environmental concern for waterfront property either. Wind, waves, and ice can all eat away at the shoreline and cause erosion over time. You may have to invest in barriers or other control solutions to reinforce the shoreline. 

Land Considerations

Soil near lakes may not always be suitable for building or a septic system. A perc test may be required before any building can take place. If the land fails a perc test, then it will be unsuitable for a standard septic system. There are alternative systems that can be installed, and soil engineers can remediate bad soil for construction, but this will increase the cost to build on the land. 

Land elevation is another important consideration for building near water. If the land doesn’t drain well and the building site isn’t high enough up from the water, you can have issues with soggy soil and an elevated risk of flooding. 

Lifestyle Considerations

Finally, there are lifestyle considerations to factor into your purchase decision. If you’re looking to enjoy high-speed boat activities like water skiing, tubing, and jet skiing, then you’ll want to find an all-sports lake to live on. If you’re more interested in enjoying views of the water and engaging in slower-paced water activities like kayaking or paddle boarding, then finding an all-sports lake may be less of a concern. 

Lakes can also be private and only accessible to residents or public and available for everyone to enjoy. If you’d like to avoid boat congestion and having a large number of boaters near your property, then you may want to look at private lakes as opposed to public lakes. 

Having a lakefront home can be a reality. Snowden Builders has unique experience constructing custom homes along Western Michigan’s many lakes. We can offer you advice on everything from the features you want in a piece of property to how to best situate your new home to take advantage of gorgeous lake views. We also offer real estate services to guide you on your search for a lakefront property. 

Finding Lakefront Property in Western Michigan

Western Michigan has many lakes dotting the region. This means that there are plenty of options when it comes to finding a lakefront property in the area. The real challenge may be narrowing down exactly where you want to buy.

Define Your Needs & Budget

To start, you should define your needs and your budget. Start by considering where you want to buy and how big you want the lot to be. Your ideal location may vary based on whether the property will be your primary residence. If so, then you will need to factor in things like commute time and proximity to stores, restaurants, schools, and more. 

You should also consider the type of lake that you want to live on – including both the size and how developed it is. Your ideal might be to have just a handful of neighbors, or you might want to build in a more popular (and populated) place. Lot size also plays a role here. You should determine the acreage that you need to build the kind of house that you want for your lifestyle.

A consideration of your needs should also include a list of desired features. Do you want lake access? Potential for outdoor activities like boating? Is it more important to you to have privacy? Do you want to be able to build close enough to the water to have stunning lake views?

At this stage, you should also set a budget for the land and construction as well as ongoing costs. While knowing average costs can be helpful, our team can more accurately estimate construction costs when you schedule a consultation with us. Maintenance costs can be higher on a lakefront property, in addition to any fees that might be assessed on lakefront property owners. These factors should be part of your overall budget.

Start Your Search

Once you have a better idea of what you want and how much you want to spend on the property, the fun begins! You should start by researching lakes in your area that fit your criteria. A local real estate agent can often help with the process and can even offer advice on local regulations and restrictions on lakefront property development. They can also offer insight into the local community.

In Western Michigan, there are many great lakefront communities to choose from – as well as less developed lakes if you are looking for a more secluded retreat. We’ve included some of the most popular all-sports lakes in West Michigan below.

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is the crown jewel of West Michigan’s waterfront real estate. With expansive sandy beaches, stunning sunsets, and a reputation for upscale coastal living, properties along Lake Michigan offer exceptional long-term value.

Lake Macatawa 

Located just minutes from downtown Holland, Lake Macatawa is a prime destination for boaters and lake lovers who want direct access to Lake Michigan. The lake’s deep water channels and marina access make it a favorite among yachting enthusiasts.

Gull Lake

Known for its crystal-clear waters and upscale atmosphere, Gull Lake is one of West Michigan’s most prestigious inland lakes. Located near Richland, it features a vibrant mix of full-time residences and luxury vacation homes.

Green Lake

Tucked between Caledonia and Wayland, Green Lake is a quiet and scenic option for buyers looking for a more relaxed lakefront lifestyle. With its calm waters and natural surroundings, it’s a great choice for kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying peaceful lake views.

Muskegon Lake

Muskegon Lake blends the energy of a working harbor with the charm of recreational lake living. With direct access to Lake Michigan through the Muskegon Channel, it’s a prime location for boaters and anglers. The lake is bordered by parks, marinas, and revitalized neighborhoods, making it attractive to buyers who appreciate urban conveniences near the water.

Gun Lake

Gun Lake is a favorite for those seeking a fun and social lake environment. Spanning over 2,600 acres, it offers ample space for boating, tubing, fishing, and jet skiing. The lake’s irregular shoreline creates numerous private coves and peninsulas, making waterfront property both plentiful and unique.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake is considered by many to be one of the most desirable lakes in West Michigan to live on. It’s large enough to accommodate water sports, but small enough to avoid crowds and large power boats. With a long-standing custom of no-wake fishing nights, you’re guaranteed peaceful evenings on Silver Lake. 

Bostwick Lake

Bostwick Lake, just northeast of Grand Rapids, is known for its peaceful waters and established lakefront community. The lake’s calm conditions make it perfect for paddleboarding, pontooning, and quiet mornings on the dock.

Bass Lake

Bass Lake offers a quiet, nature-rich setting with clear waters and a reputation for excellent fishing. The lake is particularly appealing for its blend of privacy and proximity to Lake Michigan.

Bills Lake

Bills Lake in Newaygo County is a spring-fed, all-sports lake known for its turquoise water and exceptional clarity. Tucked into a wooded setting, it offers a private and peaceful atmosphere with limited public access, enhancing its exclusivity.

Wabasis Lake

Wabasis Lake is one of the larger inland lakes in Kent County and is known for its recreational versatility. With a public park, boat launch, and campground nearby, it’s a popular destination for weekend visitors as well as full-time residents.

Horsehead Lake

Nestled in Mecosta County, Horsehead Lake is a quiet, family-friendly destination that offers a mix of year-round homes and vacation properties. Known for its calm waters and wooded surroundings, it’s ideal for kayaking, fishing, and pontoon cruising.

Cobb Lake

Cobb Lake, located in Barry County, is a smaller, quieter lake ideal for those who prioritize serenity and natural beauty. It’s surrounded by a mix of full-time homes and seasonal getaways, many with expansive lake views and mature trees.

Mona Lake

Positioned between Muskegon and Norton Shores, Mona Lake offers a unique blend of urban convenience and waterfront living. With direct access to Lake Michigan via a channel, it’s a great choice for boaters who want to explore bigger waters.

Pine Lake

Pine Lake, located in Barry County near Delton, is a large, all-sports lake with a strong community feel and a reputation for summer fun. It actually consists of multiple connected basins, offering varied waterfront experiences from quiet coves to open boating areas.

Wall Lake

Wall Lake in Barry County is a spring-fed, all-sports lake known for its clear water and relaxed, upscale atmosphere. With a strong community and limited public access, it offers a quiet escape that still allows for motorized boating, water skiing, and paddleboarding.

Long Lake

Long Lake is especially desirable for its size and water quality. It supports a wide range of recreational activities.Its gently sloping lots and beautiful sunrises make it a favorite for both seasonal retreats and full-time living.

Crooked Lake

Crooked Lake is a mid-sized all-sports lake with a laid-back feel. It’s known for good fishing, quiet mornings, and a strong sense of community among lake homeowners.

Wilkinson Lake

Wilkinson Lake offers a quiet, semi-private feel with a wooded shoreline and calm waters ideal for kayaking and wildlife viewing. While smaller than some nearby lakes, it has become a popular destination for those looking to escape the city without venturing too far.

Pleasant Lake

Pleasant Lake lives up to its name with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and a mix of recreational activities. It’s suitable for fishing, swimming, and a range of other boating and water sports activities.

Podunk Lake

Podunk Lake in Barry County is a quiet, all-sports lake just 8 minutes southwest of Hastings. It offers excellent conditions for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Lake Allegan

Lake Allegan is a dammed section of the Kalamazoo River and offers a more natural, wilderness-style lakefront experience. With miles of shoreline and a largely undeveloped perimeter, it’s ideal for buyers looking for privacy and space.

Hutchins Lake

Just south of Fennville, Hutchins Lake is a spring-fed lake popular with both seasonal visitors and full-time residents. Its proximity to Saugatuck, wineries, and local orchards makes it a favorite for those looking to combine a lakefront lifestyle with nearby cultural and culinary attractions.

Algonquin Lake

Algonquin Lake, located near Hastings, is a private, all-sports lake with a residential focus. With no public access, the lake maintains a quiet atmosphere and a tight-knit community feel. It’s a desirable option for buyers who want recreational opportunities without the weekend crowds.

Hess Lake

Hess Lake in Newaygo County is an all-sports lake that combines fun and affordability. Popular with boaters, jet skiers, and anglers, it has a strong sense of community and is especially active in the summer months.

Working with a Western Michigan custom home builder is often a great way to find a piece of property that works for you. Once you have narrowed down properties, we can offer our insight on the suitability of the land for construction. We can also help you decide what property might be best for your particular needs in terms of the house size and type that you want. As seasoned Western Michigan on your lot builders, we are adept at analyzing properties on behalf of our clients so that they can make the best possible investment.

Before purchasing any lakefront property, you should ask the following questions:

• Is the property located in a flood zone? If so, does it require flood insurance?
• If the property has a private septic system, did it pass inspection? When was it last inspected or pumped?
• Are there any environmental or wildlife considerations with this property?
• How close to the shoreline can you build?
• Are there any zoning restrictions on waterfront lots in the area? 
• What property and lake rights you are purchasing. Are there any easements or restrictions on the property or your use of the water?
• What recreational activities are allowed or prohibited on the lake?
• Is there a homeowners’ association or a lake association? What role does the association play in managing the lake?
• What is the condition of the shoreline in the summer? How deep is it? What types of weeds are typically present?
• How is the lake water level controlled and who controls it?
• What is the quality of the lake water? When and how is it tested?
• Are there future development plans for the lake?

You should also consult with experts who can study the soil, check slope conditions, and review erosion history.  This is incredibly important for anyone building a house on a lakefront property, as you will want to make sure that the soil is stable and the lot is suitable for building a house. If you don’t have a geotechnical expert in mind, we can recommend one for you.

Build a Gorgeous Custom Lakefront Home with Snowden Builders

If you are lucky enough to buy a lakefront property, the last thing that you want is to settle for a run-of-the-mill builder. Snowden Builders is renowned for constructing truly exceptional, high-end custom homes. We have particular expertise in lakefront homes, building luxurious retreats along the water that will bring our clients joy for generations to come.

Snowden Builders is a family-owned construction company that takes a client-centered approach to building custom homes. We can help you build the stunning lakefront house of your dreams. To learn more about building a lakefront home in Western Michigan or to schedule a consultation with our team, give us a call at 616-532-1800 or fill out our online contact form.