Empire Real Estate

Empire Real Estate

Welcome to Empire, Michigan—a hidden gem nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan. This charming village, part of the picturesque Leelanau County, is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil lifestyle. With a population of just over 300 residents, Empire offers a close-knit community vibe that makes it an ideal place for families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Empire is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore just a stone's throw away. Here, you can hike through pristine forests, bask in the sun on sandy beaches, or take in panoramic views of the lake from the towering dunes. The area is also rich in outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to fishing and birdwatching, ensuring that there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to its natural wonders, Empire boasts a vibrant local culture. The village is home to charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and farm-to-table restaurants that celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. Throughout the year, residents and visitors alike can partake in community events, farmers' markets, and seasonal festivals that showcase the best of what Empire has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, invest in a vacation property, or simply explore a quaint town with plenty of character, Empire, MI, is an ideal choice. Experience the warmth of this delightful village and discover your perfect slice of paradise along Lake Michigan.

Newest Listings in Empire

$499,900
3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 1948404 MLS ⋅ Village Of Empire BLDG.
Location, location, location! Rare opportunities like this in the heart of downtown Empire don't come along often. Just a short stroll to Empire Beach—arguably one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world—as well as James R. Johnson Park, pickleball and shuffleboard courts, the covered gazebo with South Bar Lake access, local shops, restaurants, and everything this charming Lake Michigan community has to offer. Set on a rare double lot, this character-filled home offers over 1,700 finished square feet, blending timeless charm with thoughtful updates. Features include original hardwood floors, 9-foot ceilings, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, an updated full bath, main-floor laundry, three oversized bedrooms, an oversized covered front porch, and a detached garage with an attached workshop. Whether you're searching for a year-round residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity, this is your chance to own in one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after beach towns. Properties on Niagara Street rarely become available—don't miss this exceptional opportunity!

10176 Niagara Street, Empire
$174,900
1948378 MLS ⋅ Timber View Ridge BLDG.
Some properties ask you to fit your plans to the land. This one gives you the freedom to let the land fit your plans. Whether you envision your home perched to capture panoramic views of Big and Little Glen Lakes and Lake Michigan beyond, or tucked into the landscape for a more secluded feel, the possibilities are yours to explore. Every season brings a new perspective, from vibrant fall colors to sparkling winter mornings and summer sunsets stretching across the water. Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in Timber View Ridge, this parcel is surrounded by common space on three sides, creating an uncommon sense of privacy and openness. Two established driveway locations are already in place, making it easy to bring your vision to life. One leads to the elevated building site where the views take center stage, while the second provides access to the lower portion of the property, complete with an existing firepit and additional space for entertaining, relaxing, or creating your own outdoor retreat. Until you're ready to build, the property also provides the opportunity to bring your camper and start enjoying the land right away while you plan Life in Timber View Ridge extends well beyond your property lines. Thoughtfully designed across 160 acres, the community offers shared walking trails, preserved open space, and a peaceful setting that feels miles away from the everyday. Yet you're only minutes from Empire, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Lake, and Lake Michigan beaches, with Traverse City close enough for shopping, dining, and an easy commute. Whether you're ready to build now or simply looking for an exceptional piece of Northern Michigan to call your own, this property offers the space, setting, and flexibility to create something you'll enjoy for years to come.

0000 W Timber Wolf Court, Empire
$139,900
1948367 MLS ⋅ Westview BLDG.
Some properties simply offer a place to build and others offer a lifestyle that's worth building around. Located in the quiet Westview development just outside the village of Empire, this wooded parcel combines privacy, natural beauty, and an unbeatable location in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes Country. Tucked near the end of a private road, mature hardwoods and evergreens create a peaceful setting, while the rolling terrain offers the opportunity for a variety of home designs, including the potential for a walkout lower level. Whether your plans include a full-time residence, a weekend retreat, or the retirement home you've been dreaming about, this property provides the flexibility to create a space that fits the way you want to live. Westview's building requirements, including a 1,200-square-foot minimum and matching accessory structures, help preserve the neighborhood's character while still allowing you to make the home your own. What truly sets this property apart is everything waiting just beyond the driveway. Within minutes you can spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, hiking the Empire Bluffs, biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, boating and fishing, or exploring the shops and restaurants of Empire and Glen Arbor. Every season brings something new to enjoy here in the Up North. When the adventure is over, you'll appreciate coming home to a setting that feels peaceful, private, and a world away from the everyday, while still being only about 30 minutes from Traverse City. It's a location that reminds you why so many people dream of calling Northern Michigan home.

0015 S Westview Drive, Empire
$399,900
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1947948 MLS
Some homes are measured by numbers. The best ones are measured by the life they make possible. This thoughtfully maintained home offers comfortable living in a setting that invites you to slow down and enjoy everything Northern Michigan has to offer. A private primary suite features its own ensuite bath and the overall layout makes the most of every square foot. Step outside onto the back deck and discover a spacious backyard that naturally becomes an extension of the home. Mature trees provide privacy and welcome shade, while sunny clearings create the perfect setting for gardening, backyard games, family barbecues, or evenings gathered around a bonfire beneath the stars. The location is where this property truly shines. Just minutes from Empire, you'll have easy access to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, the crystal-clear waters of Big and Little Glen Lake at the Narrows, and the endless outdoor adventures of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Spend your days hiking, biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, kayaking, or exploring the local shops and restaurants in nearby Empire, Glen Arbor, and Honor before returning home to your own peaceful retreat. Located in the highly regarded Glen Lake School District and offering an easy commute to Traverse City for work, shopping, and entertainment, this home presents an opportunity to enjoy one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after communities. Because in the end, the best homes aren't remembered for their measurements. They're remembered for the life that's lived there.

11530 S Benzonia Trail, Empire
$95,000
1947861 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
2.5 Wooded Acres Near Sleeping Bear Dunes – Private & No Restrictions Discover the perfect canvas for your northern Michigan dream home on this beautiful 2.5-acre parcel in Southwest Leelanau County. Tucked away on Aring Drive—a quiet, private lane just off Osborn Road—this level property is beautifully wooded with mature hardwoods and native conifers. Building here is seamless: the flat, easily navigable terrain offers multiple ideal building sites. Best of all, the land is free from restrictive subdivision covenants, bound only by Empire Township’s minimum square footage requirements. A formal road maintenance agreement is already in place to protect your investment and ensure easy year-round access. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being steps from the famous Shore-to-Shore hiking and riding trail. You are also just minutes from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Lake, Glen Arbor, Leland, and the pristine beaches of Lake Michigan. Whether you want to build a seasonal cabin or a year-round custom estate, this property offers unmatched privacy and convenience.

002 S Aring Drive, Empire
$2,095,000
4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1947589 MLS ⋅ Metes And Bounds BLDG.
Nestled on the tranquil north shore of pristine Pearl Lake, this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath Cape Cod offers an exceptional combination of waterfront beauty and peaceful Northern Michigan living. With approximately 87 acres, approx. 600 feet of natural frontage on Pearl Lake as Well as approx. 2000 ft. on Brooks Lake. The property provides an ideal setting for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the crystal-clear waters. A welcoming covered front porch spans the entire length of the home, creating the perfect place to relax and take in the surrounding scenery, while a spacious rear patio offers additional outdoor entertaining space. The home also overlooks a picturesque natural pond, attracting abundant wildlife. Completing the offering is a detached 2-car garage and a setting that blends privacy, recreation, and timeless Up North charm. Offering a rare opportunity to create an extraordinary Northern Michigan estate encompassing acreage, multiple lakes, and exceptional privacy.

16043 Wagner Road, Empire
$1,400,000
1947590 MLS ⋅ Metes And Bounds BLDG.
Rarely does a property of this significance become available. Encompassing approximately 80 acres with nearly 2,000 feet of frontage on crystal-clear, spring-fed Brooks Lake, this remarkable parcel has remained in the same family for more than 100 years. Majestic mature timber frames the shoreline, creating an incredibly private setting with numerous spectacular building sites overlooking the lake. Road frontage on both the north and south boundaries provides convenient access and future flexibility, while the property may be split, offering additional possibilities. With its natural shoreline, public lake access, and unmatched combination of acreage, waterfront, and history, this is a true legacy property unlike anything else on the market. Additional 7 acres w 600 ft. on Pearl Lake with home also avilable.

Pettengill Road, Empire
$695,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1947588 MLS ⋅ Metes And Bounds BLDG.
Nestled on the tranquil north shore of pristine Pearl Lake, this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath Cape Cod offers an exceptional combination of waterfront beauty and peaceful Northern Michigan living. With approximately 7 acres and 600 feet of natural frontage featuring a sandy and gravel lake bottom, the property provides an ideal setting for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the crystal-clear waters. A welcoming covered front porch spans the entire length of the home, creating the perfect place to relax and take in the surrounding scenery, while a spacious rear patio offers additional outdoor entertaining space. The home also overlooks a picturesque natural pond, attracting abundant wildlife. Completing the offering is a detached 2-car garage and a setting that blends privacy, recreation, and timeless Up North charm. Adjacent 80-acre waterfront parcel on Brooks Lake is also available, offering a rare opportunity to create an extraordinary Northern Michigan estate encompassing acreage, multiple lakes, and exceptional privacy.

16043 Wagner Road, Empire
$1,200,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1946967 MLS ⋅ Timber View Ridge BLDG.
Some homes impress you with what you can see. This home impresses you with what you discover. Stepping inside you'll find warm tongue-and-groove ceilings, quality finishes including granite countertops, and thoughtfully designed living spaces suited for everyday living and entertaining. Multi-zone in-floor radiant heat provides exceptional year-round comfort throughout the home, including the primary bath. What separates this property from the ordinary is the way it was built. Insulated concrete forms and concrete siding provide durability and energy efficiency. Features like the Electronic Air Elite air purification system, generator hookup, and new boiler installed in 2025 offers added efficiency and peace of mind. The kitchen faucet and garbage disposal were also recently upgraded. Step outside and you'll find a spacious 40-foot deck overlooking a private backyard and wooded common area beyond. It's the perfect place to host summer gatherings or relax after a day of work or play. The heated and insulated 30x30 garage is more than just a place to park vehicles. With room for hobbies, projects, and storage, this versatile space was previously USDA approved and operated as a small business, offering endless possibilities for the next owner. Tucked away at the end of a quiet road in Timber View Ridge, this home is surrounded by nature and bordered by wooded common area. It's location places you close to everything that makes living in the Up North so desireable. Spend your days exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes, biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, relaxing on Lake Michigan beaches, or play a round at The Dunes Golf Course across the road. Traverse City's shopping, dining, and entertainment are less than 30 minutes from your doorstep. For added space, the adjoining lot to the north is available for purchase. Built with intention, maintained with care, and thoughtfully designed, it's a home that continues to reveal its value long after the first impression.

11770 S Mistys Trail, Empire
$479,900
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1946670 MLS ⋅ Fox Hills BLDG.
A place in the country - tucked into a wonderful neighborhood surrounded by all the delights of Leelanau County. This family house sits halfway between Empire and TC, in the award winning Glen Lake school district. Fifteen minutes from either downtown TC or the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore with all its beaches, hiking, biking and delights. A huge lawn with woods out back, a basketball court off to the side and spaces inside perfect for a family with kids of any age. 4 bedrooms + an office/den. A floor plan with spaces for every moment. The photos tell the story - but seeing it will charm your soul. Showings start Saturday, June 20th.

13179 S Martin Lane, Empire
$119,900
1946340 MLS ⋅ Empire Hills BLDG.
Build your Northern Michigan home in the desirable Empire Hills development. Offered separately or together, Lots 5 (MLS 1946339) and 6 are each listed at $119,900 and feature approximately .75 acres per parcel. Tucked away on the back side of the development, these gently rolling homesites provide a peaceful setting with added privacy, mature trees, multiple building site possibilities, and distant glimpses of Lake Michigan. Purchase one lot or combine both for approximately 1.5 acres, creating even greater privacy and flexibility for your future home. Enjoy the convenience of a paved road and underground utilities available at the road, providing an ideal foundation for your future home. Located just minutes from the Village of Empire, Lake Michigan beaches, the Empire Bluff Trail, and the renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this exceptional location offers convenient access to hiking, biking, boating, dining, and everything that makes Leelanau County one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after destinations. For additional information about Empire Hills, including building restrictions and community guidelines, visit www.empirehills.com.

00 W Sleepy Valley Drive, Empire
$119,900
1946339 MLS ⋅ Empire Hills BLDG.
Build your Northern Michigan home in the desirable Empire Hills development. Offered separately or together, Lots 5 and 6 (MLS 1946340) are each listed at $119,900 and feature approximately .75 acres per parcel. Tucked away on the back side of the development, these gently rolling homesites provide a peaceful setting with added privacy, mature trees, multiple building site possibilities, and distant glimpses of Lake Michigan. Purchase one lot or combine both for approximately 1.5 acres, creating even greater privacy and flexibility for your future home. Enjoy the convenience of a paved road and underground utilities available at the road, providing an ideal foundation for your future home. Located just minutes from the Village of Empire, Lake Michigan beaches, the Empire Bluff Trail, and the renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this exceptional location offers convenient access to hiking, biking, boating, dining, and everything that makes Leelanau County one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after destinations. For additional information about Empire Hills, including building restrictions and community guidelines, visit www.empirehills.com.

00 W Sleepy Valley Drive, Empire
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