After a slow start to the year, Northwest Michigan came alive in June. Closed sales jumped 37% from May, average sale prices pushed above $615,000, and new listings kept climbing as buyers and sellers entered in force. The region has shifted into its busiest stretch of the year, right on its traditional seasonal schedule.
One Number Worth Watching
There’s a single soft spot. New pending sales slipped 12% from May. Summer pending activity swings around a lot, so one month’s dip doesn’t signal a turn. But pending sales lead closings, they’re the market’s earlywarning gauge. July will tell us whether demand reaccelerates or keeps easing. It’s the number to watch, not to worry about yet.
Two Clocks, Two Stories
Zoom out and the picture is healthy on balance. Year-to-date sales are still running 7% behind last year’s pace, but average sale prices have climbed 5%, proof that demand for well-priced homes hasn’t faded. The month surged; the year is still catching up. Both things are true at once.
The Bottom Line
Buyers get the widest selection of homes they’ll see all year. Sellers who price competitively stay well positioned through the heart of the summer season. The market is healthy, just keep one eye on pending sales.
