Salesperson (MI: 6501329362)
9 years experience
Oceana County, Michigan's real estate market reflects the unique character of this Lake Michigan coastal region, where seasonal tourism dynamics blend with year-round agricultural communities. The county's 108 actively licensed real estate agents serve a diverse landscape that spans from Hart's charming downtown district to the lakefront properties of Pentwater and the rural farmlands surrounding Walkerville and Shelby.
What makes Oceana County particularly intriguing is its dual personality as both a vacation destination and working agricultural hub. Properties range from modest starter homes in New Era to luxury lakefront estates commanding premium prices along the shoreline. The market experiences distinct seasonal fluctuations, with spring and summer months driving significant activity as buyers seek both primary residences and vacation properties in this scenic corner of West Michigan.
Hart serves as the county seat and primary commercial center, offering a mix of historic homes, new construction, and commercial properties that support the area's government and service sectors. Pentwater represents the premium end of the market, where lakefront properties and charming village homes attract buyers seeking both investment opportunities and lifestyle changes. The village's walkable downtown and pristine beaches create consistent demand despite seasonal market variations.
The eastern portions of the county, including Shelby and surrounding townships, feature more affordable housing options alongside working farms and rural acreage. These areas appeal to buyers seeking space, privacy, and agricultural opportunities while maintaining reasonable access to larger population centers. Walkerville and New Era round out the market with small-town charm and properties that often attract multigenerational families and those seeking authentic rural Michigan experiences.
Oceana County's real estate market operates with fascinating complexity despite its relatively small size. Coastal properties command significantly different pricing than inland parcels, creating distinct submarkets within just a few miles of each other. Agricultural zoning, environmental regulations near waterways, and seasonal accessibility all influence property values and buyer behavior in ways that require deep local knowledge to navigate successfully.
The county's economy balances tourism, agriculture, and light manufacturing, creating diverse buyer profiles from retirees and vacationers to young farming families and remote workers drawn by affordable housing costs. This economic diversity provides market stability, though seasonal fluctuations remain pronounced. Properties often sell quickly during peak months, while winter presents opportunities for motivated buyers to negotiate more favorable terms.
With all 108 licensed agents maintaining email contact information, Oceana County offers exceptional connectivity for businesses serving the real estate industry. Mortgage lenders, insurance providers, home inspection services, and contractors can efficiently reach the entire agent population through targeted digital marketing campaigns. This complete coverage becomes particularly valuable given the county's seasonal market patterns and the need for timely communication during peak activity periods.
The relatively small but active agent community creates opportunities for personalized business relationships that might prove difficult in larger metropolitan markets. Service providers who understand the unique challenges of coastal properties, agricultural transactions, and seasonal market fluctuations can position themselves as essential partners to agents navigating Oceana County's diverse real estate landscape.
As of 2/13/2026, Kathryn Rice has 2 properties for sale in New Era and surrounding areas.
$70,000
Listed 2025-12-18
$709,900
Listed 2025-09-30
Kathryn Rice currently has no rental properties available in New Era and surrounding areas. Check back later.