Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Northern Michigan Real Estate Experts
Founded on principles of integrity, knowledge, and a genuine commitment to excellence, we have established ourselves as the premier luxury real estate provider in Northern Michigan. Our team leverages the global reach of the Sotheby's International Realty Network while maintaining deep local expertise in communities like Bay Harbor, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. With decades of combined experience, our agents deliver personalized service, innovative marketing strategies, and unparalleled access to buyers worldwide.We specialize in properties ranging from luxury lakefront estates to cozy cabin retreats, ensuring every client receives tailored guidance. Our leadership team brings international recognition for sustainable development and unmatched market knowledge, making us the brokerage of choice for Northern Michigan real estate.
Services
Real Estate Sales
Property Marketing
Global Network Access
Local Expertise
Client Support
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 38+ years of Northern Michigan market expertise through veteran agents like Brad Rellinger.
- Our global network includes 1,115 offices worldwide and 26,500 sales associates across 84 countries.
- We implement custom marketing plans leveraging Sotheby's prestigious brand recognition.
- Our team includes internationally recognized developers like David V. Johnson with award-winning projects.
- We provide dedicated client support from initial consultation through transaction completion.
Services
Real Estate Sales
Our expert agents facilitate residential property transactions across Northern Michigan's premier locations. We specialize in connecting buyers and sellers through targeted marketing strategies that leverage both local market knowledge and the Sotheby's International Realty global network. Our team handles everything from initial consultations to closing, ensuring seamless transactions for properties ranging from vacation cottages to luxury estates.
Luxury Home Marketing
We create bespoke marketing campaigns for premium properties that combine Sotheby's brand prestige with digital innovation. Our approach includes professional photography, virtual tours, and access to an international buyer database. This specialized service ensures luxury listings receive maximum exposure to qualified buyers through both traditional real estate channels and art-world connections unique to the Sotheby's brand.
Global Network Access
Leveraging our affiliation with 1,115 global offices and 26,500 sales associates, we connect Northern Michigan properties with qualified international buyers. Our agents receive specialized training in cross-border transactions and maintain relationships with Sotheby's art auction professionals to reach high-net-worth clients seeking luxury real estate investments in scenic Michigan locations.
Local Market Expertise
Our team possesses unparalleled understanding of Northern Michigan's unique real estate landscape, including lakefront regulations, seasonal property considerations, and community-specific market trends. With agents like Brad Rellinger who've lived in the region for 38+ years, we provide accurate pricing guidance and strategic advice tailored to the area's distinct seasonal economy and vacation property market.
Client Support Services
From initial offer to closing, our dedicated support team ensures smooth transactions through meticulous documentation management and coordination. We provide comprehensive assistance with property inspections, title transfers, and local regulatory requirements. Our client-focused approach includes regular communication updates and personalized guidance to help buyers and sellers navigate Northern Michigan's specific real estate processes.
People
David V. Johnson
Broker / Chairman
Internationally recognized entrepreneur and luxury community developer with expertise in ecological development. Leads Victor International Corporation's resort communities and holds multiple industry awards from organizations like the Urban Land Institute and CNBC International Property Awards.
Brad Rellinger
Managing Broker
Michigan native with 38 years' experience in Northern Michigan real estate. Holds real estate license since 1995 and broker license since 2005. Specializes in Walloon Lake and Petoskey area properties with deep knowledge of inland lakes and Mackinac Island markets.
Bernie Schaffer
Manager / Associate Broker
31-year Harbor Springs real estate veteran who founded Schaffer Real Estate. Fluent in German, former Director of Emmet Board of Realtors, and Grievance Committee member. Known for matching properties to buyers' specific needs in the Lake Michigan region.
Linda Parker
General Manager
Licensed real estate salesperson since 2003 with oversight of office operations and transaction coordination. Member of Emmet Association of REALTORS, Michigan Association of REALTORS, and National Association of REALTORS. Ensures smooth day-to-day business management.
Michelle M. Denise
Marketing Manager
Client support specialist managing marketing initiatives and brand representation. Coordinates promotional efforts to maintain the firm's prestigious market position while providing direct client assistance through all transaction stages.
Questions
What Northern Michigan areas do you specialize in?
We focus on Bay Harbor, Walloon Lake, Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, Upper Peninsula, Indian River, and Good Hart properties.
How does your global network benefit local sellers?
Our affiliation with 1,115 international offices connects Northern Michigan properties with qualified buyers worldwide through Sotheby's prestigious brand.
What property types do you handle?
We represent luxury lakefront homes, cabin retreats, vacation properties, and estates across Northern Michigan's premier locations.
How experienced is your team?
Our agents have 38+ combined years of Northern Michigan expertise, including international award-winning developers and veteran local specialists.
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