Wally Kidd Real Estate Blog - Walter J. Kidd's Blog

Northern Michigan’s lakeside beauty is the kind of getaway that welcomes everyone with open arms. A patchwork of charming towns, peaceful beaches, and breathtaking landscapes, this region stands out as one of the best places to stay in Northern Michigan. Whether you’re planning an adventure with the family, a couples escape, or a solo retreat, Northern Michigan is ready to enchant. Among its many treasures, four towns shine brightest—Petoskey, Boyne City, Harbor Springs, and Charlevoix—each offering unique attractions and a warm atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home.

Walloon Lake

Walloon Lake is a sparkling jewel tucked away among Northern Michigan’s rolling hills and thick forests. This beautiful lake is famous for its crystal-clear…

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Hiking Northern Michigan Nature Preserves and State Parks

Fall transforms Northern Michigan’s nature preserves and state parks into vibrant landscapes of red, orange, and gold. Popular trails near Walloon Lake, Harbor Springs, and Petoskey wind through scenic forests, around tranquil lakes, and up gentle hills. This time of year is perfect for brisk hikes, as cooler air and fewer bugs create ideal conditions. Bring a camera to capture the outstanding fall foliage Michigan is known for, and watch for wildlife preparing for winter. Every family member, from seasoned hikers to casual walkers, will find trails suited to their abilities in this region’s protected lands.

Biking Scenic Routes Near Walloon Lake and Petoskey

Cyclists can take advantage of…

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Top Things to Do in Harbor Springs, Michigan

Along the shores of Lake Michigan, Harbor Springs is a charming destination that beckons to those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning waterfront views and vibrant community, this amzing town offers tons experiences just waiting to be explored. Find the top things to do in Harbor Springs by following along with this blog to find exactly what you are looking for.

Cultural Attractions

Harbor Springs boasts a vibrant cultural scene that celebrates our local heritage and artistic talent. From stunning art galleries to rich historical sites, the town offers plenty of opportunities to immerse ourselves in the community's cultural fabric.

Art Galleries and Studios

We take pride…

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Where to Buy a Lake House in the Petoskey Area: Top Spots & Tips for Your Dream Retreat

If you’re dreaming of a serene getaway, the Petoskey area might just be the perfect spot for your lake house. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this region offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a spacious family home, the options here are abundant.

We’ve know the local real estate market very well and have discovered some of the best lakes to cater to various preferences. From waterfront properties with breathtaking views to quaint cottages tucked away in the woods, there's something for everyone. Below are a few lakes that made the cut best lake homes in the Petoskey…

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Walloon 2024 YTD Market Update

As 2024 comes to a close, Walloon Lake’s real estate market has once again proven its strength, with tight inventory and continued appreciation in property values.

Here's an overview of this year:

  • High-End Activity: Three notable sales at $9.25M, $5.95M, and $4.7M highlighted the remarkable strength at the top of the market. I had the privilege of representing all three properties and two of the buyers.
  • Rising Price Per Square Foot: Of the seven waterfront homes sold this year, five exceeded $1,000 per square foot, compared to just two in 2023—a clear indicator of Walloon's growing value.
  • Entry-Level and Mid-Tier Trends: The entry-level market ($1.5M–$2M) remains quiet, with limited inventory…

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The Walloon Woodies & Classic Car Show is one week away!

My father, Jack Kidd, organized the inaugural Walloon Woodies event in the summer of 1992. All these years later, I’m proud to carry on the tradition in his memory and see it grow with the local community. Featuring some of the most significant classic wooden boats and cars in the country, this special event honors and celebrates these important pieces of history. 

No boat is more iconic to the history of Walloon than the beloved 17, and this summer we’re celebrating 90 years of Bill Loughlin’s innovative design. You’ll find the very first 17 sailboat, built by Loughlin and Henry Cawthra during a deep freeze in the winter of 1934, freshly restored and on display in the center…

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the Best Fishing Spots on Walloon Lake

Walloon Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the World and offers many different types of fishing opportunities for fishing enthusiasts looking to get their hands on a prized catch. We have done our research to help you pin-point exactlty where you should start fishing and what you should fish for. The following article will help you discover where you need to be fishing on Walloon Lake, whether from a boat or on the ice!

Top Fishing Spots on Walloon Lake Michigan

Walloon Lake, a prized gem in Michigan, offers an array of top-notch fishing spots. Let's delve into these locations and see what makes them unique.

Best Locations for Various Fish Species

  1. Shadowy Coves: These hidden…

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The Beauty of Summer in Northern Michigan

 

July and August in Northern Michigan are all about reveling in summer’s bounty. The woods are vibrantly green with pine, birch, and fern dominating the forest. The waters are crystal clear and refreshingly cold. Sunset holds off until well past 9 pm, eventually welcoming a riot of stars to the night sky. From days spent sailing on the lake to feasts of oak plank whitefish, corn on the cob, and cherry pie, these are the cherished days when generations of families gather to carry on deeply rooted traditions. The frenzy of 4th of July festivities have come and gone, but what I’m most looking forward to is all that is still ahead this summer. 

 

Take a drive and you’re bound to come across one of the…

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Wally Kidd Blog: Up North Winter Activities

 Up North Michigan Winter Activities

Thank you, Hotel Walloon, for this amazing photo!

 

Winter in Northern Michigan means a deluge of crystal snowflakes and a variety of ways to best enjoy it. The spectacular natural scenery is a welcome sight for adventurers who relish these colder months.  So bundle up, have a warm beverage nearby, and head outdoors to experience the best of what this area has to offer.

This corner of Michigan boasts three of the best ski resorts in the country, providing downhill skiers and snowboarders ample opportunities to hit the slopes. Whether you tackle the runs at Boyne Mountain, the Highlands, or Nub’s Nob, you’re in for an exhilarating ride with beautiful vistas at every turn. Each resort offers…

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Wally Kidd Blog: Holiday Events & Traditions of Northern Michigan

Happy Holidays! Festivities are in full swing in Northern Michigan, with plenty more to be enjoyed in the coming weeks. Revelry kicked off Thanksgiving weekend with Christmas tree lightings, parades, and open houses from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs. Each town in the area is trimmed with garland and twinkling lights, the ski resorts are becoming busier by the day, and hot chocolate is the drink of choice. With an abundance of holiday activities on offer, it’s the perfect time to gather with family and friends to celebrate and create cherished memories. 

Whether you take to the slopes or not, the area’s spectacular ski resorts are resplendent with holiday decor and events. Adorn…

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