Winter Guide 2023

SELLING THE DREAM HOUSE

PAT LEAVY’S TAKE ON TWO DECADES OF REAL ESTATE

Article Written by Ross Boissoneau | Northern Express

Real estate is equal parts emotion, therapy, finance, and strategy. Once you find something that appeals to you visually, you strategize to ensure it fits all your needs. The ability to combine those aspects has served Pat Leavy during his more than two decades as a realtor—the last several as one of the top-selling agents in the entire state—as he and his firm have built their brokerage Kidd & Leavy Real Estate, with three locations in Petoskey, Walloon Lake, and Boyne City on Lake Charlevoix, into a powerhouse, primarily serving high-end buyers and sellers.

STARTING OUT UP NORTH

Leavy’s real estate story begins in Bay Harbor. When the tiny resort community just south of Petoskey was being built in the mid 1990s, Leavy was told he’d be a natural in real estate sales there.

As the owner of a successful concrete products business in the metro Detroit area, he was reluctant to uproot his family. But ultimately, the draw of the region was too much to resist. “I told my wife we had an opportunity to go live in paradise, and we took advantage of it.” he recalls.

But it was no paradise at first. “We had a baby, and the first year I made $11,000. I [thought] I might not be cut out for this.” But within a few years, he figured out how to parlay his work ethic and leverage his ever-increasing client base of friends, family, and former customers from downstate, selling them on the lifestyle of northern Michigan he’d already embraced. His lower Michigan clientele knew they had someone up north that they could trust to help them find their dream home.

By 2003, Leavy was ready to expand beyond the confines of Bay Harbor. “My business partner and I went off on our own to expand to Walloon Lake, Lake Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. We opened a little boutique office in downtown Petoskey,” he says. Kidd & Leavy took off selling homes large and small—mostly the former, or at least those boasting bigger price tags.

Today, they have two decades of success under their belts, and Pat says referrals are key for any agency. “I come from a large Irish Catholic family. I know everybody,” he says. But it’s

not enough to know a lot of people. “The key is happy clients; they’ll keep sending friends. And I always put my client’s needs first.”

Flexibility is also crucial, zeroing in on the numbers when dealing with a client who is focused on the financial details, or finding just the right cottage or home that matches their lifestyle. “A good agent has to be a chameleon,” Leavy says.

FOLLOWING THE UPS AND DOWNS

After the recent real estate boom, the market has begun to shift, in part due to rising interest rates to low housing inventory. Prices and number of sales are also coming down in many areas.

Leavy takes it all in stride. For those currently looking to buy a property up north, he says it’s imperative to determine the area they prefer, something you can’t do online.

“Get focused. Take the wheel and drive around, eat out, grab some coffee, see what you like,” he says. “If you want to be in northern Michigan, do you have friends there? If so, ask why they chose that spot. Not every day is a perfect day in northern Michigan. On those rainy and gloomy days, do you have other options to keep the kids and family occupied? You better enjoy the town you’re close to.”

He tells clients to make a checklist about what they’re looking for and what’s most important for them: Boating? Golf? Eating out? Being near town, or getting away from it all?

Location, location, location works…until there is nothing to buy. Pat says the lack of inventory is a hurdle for everyone in real estate and points to Bay Harbor as an example. “Bay Harbor has a ton of condos. There’s only a few condos and houses for sale. That’s stunning.”

He says one of the biggest challenges is selling a relatively expensive in-town home, while vacation properties or high-end cottages at an even higher price point aren’t as problematic. “The hardest to sell is a $500,000-$700,000 [house] in town. If it’s not a cottage, what is the occupation for someone to be able to afford that? Who’s hiring?” On the other hand, “If it’s a vacationer from downstate or Florida, they don’t care. For them, it’s a luxury item.”

As interest rates inch upward, overall sales are slowing, though Leavy says that is immaterial to his cash buyers. For others, however, interest rates are a concern—though perhaps they shouldn’t be, as rates are still at a relatively low point compared to the past. “Over the last 30 years, the interest rate has been (as high as) 9 percent,” he says. (In the ’80s, it was in double digits.) Rates are now hovering around 6 percent, but as Pat notes, “Now 30- and 40-year-olds haven’t seen that high of an interest rate, so it really sets them back.”

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YET

The changes in the real estate market now come with a strong dose of perspective for Pat. In 2020, his

career was going so well, it seemed like nothing could slow sales down— not even the pandemic. “I sold $137 million in 2020,” he says.

What did interrupt things was a serious health challenge. That year, Leavy went through two months of chemotherapy and radiation for throat cancer.

Then in late 2021, his health deteriorated again. He ended up at Mayo Clinic, where he was told his lungs had weakened to the point they were shutting down. He couldn’t leave the clinic and spent 45 days in a hospital bed.

On Feb. 7, 2022, Pat went through an 11-hour double lung transplant surgery.

“I spent five days in the ICU, then walked out a week later,” he says. “I was blessed by the physicians, God, and somebody else who, to me, is

considered an angel donor. I highly recommend that everybody puts themselves on the donor list, because it’s such an amazing thing to help other people live a better life.”

Buoyed by his new lease on life, Leavy has returned to the area and his livelihood with a greater sense of purpose. “The sky is bluer; the grass is greener. I love and appreciate people more now than I ever did before. I can’t thank my friends, family, and all the people who gave me thoughts and prayers enough for sending me their blessings. It really helped. I love my job; it feels like a fun hobby.”

The pivot to remote work during the pandemic allowed Pat to continue working. “I sold $20 million from a hospital bed and ended 2022 with $128 million in sales.”

MEET THE TEAM

PAT LEAVY OWNER

Pat Leavy has invested 24 years in Northern Michigan Real Estate sales after moving to Northern Michigan in 1999. He has attained the position as the #1 realtor in Northern Michigan for many years now and has no plans of slowing down. With boundless energy, perseverance, humor, dogged persistence, and a great staff; Pat works harder than any other agent in Northern Michigan to achieve his client’s goals. He has no fear when it comes to tough negotiations and makes sure his clients are always left smiling at the end. Pat Leavy becomes personally involved in the quest to help his clients buy or sell and loves helping them make unforgettable Northern Michigan Memories.

ASHLEY FRISKE VICE PRESIDENT

Not only was Ashley born and raised in Northern Michigan, but she made it her goal to make Northern Michigan her permanent home. Ashley offers 23 years of real estate experience and has been involved in over $1 billion in real estate transactions over the course of her career. She enjoys the everyday challenges this job brings and prides herself in making sure every deal makes it to the finish line while ensuring clients have the best experience possible. Ashley has been working with Pat Leavy for the last 18 years and together they have built the Pat Leavy brand to be #1 in Northern Michigan. There is no other team that can offer the history of sales, experience, and expertise that Pat and Ashley offer together.

BAY HARBOR WATERVIEW

3760 N. BEACH STREET

4 BEDS | 4½ BATHS | 4,643+/- SQFT.

MLS 470353 | $3,595,000

BAY HARBOR YACHT CLUB

A place to set sail, and to settle in.

There are some places that, once visited, remain in your mind’s eye –and in your heart – forever.

That’s the experience people have when they visit Bay Harbor. Perhaps it’s the natural beauty – the serene lake views of crystal-clear water, the lush woods or the star-filled sky. It may be the residents’ friendly, welcoming approach or maybe just a perfect day spent doing what you love with the people that you love.

At the center of the community is Bay Harbor Yacht Club, a Distinguished Emerald Award winner as one of the

finest private clubs in the world. The Club has served as the social center for boaters and non-boaters alike and is a private, member-owned social club. With exquisite amenities including three renowned restaurants, state-ofthe-art Wellness Center, Relaxation Spa, Racquet Sports, Aquatics Center, and there’s a reason so many call this “home.”

For over 25 years, Bay Harbor Yacht Club has boasted a rich history of bringing families and lifelong friends together. It’s not just a place for dining and cocktails, but a place to relax, meet, to work out and to connect.

THE LIFESTYLE

There is an ease and familiarity that comes from Bay Harbor Yacht Club being a smaller club with a close-knit community.

Yes, the scenery is spectacular, but it’s the members who make the club special. There is a true camaraderie here and joining the club or buying a home within the Bay Harbor community opens the door to an elegant lifestyle with no pretention. Neighbors are friendly, club members are social, and the wide variety of amenities support members in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle during northern Michigan’s four seasons.

BUILDING ON PERFECTION

Through dedication to continue building on perfection, the Club recently embarked on an expansive project to refurbish and renovate the entire Club and add world-class amenities and premier services. This $13.5 million dollar project included a 7,500 square foot Wellness Center, a brand-new Relaxation Spa and Aquatics Center, featuring a children’s splashpad, infinity edge pool and expanded deck setting. Additionally, the Club’s dining facilities are now fully renovated and provide extra indoor and outdoor seating spaces for casual and fine dining.

These newly renovated spaces will serve as the backdrop of countless memories. Each space was intentionally updated to honor personal connections and the picturesque Bay Harbor area amongst members. It is no wonder why the Bay Harbor Yacht Club is referred to as the social epicenter of Bay Harbor.

For more information, please visit bayharboryc.com or contact 231.439.2112 or membership@bayharboryc.com .

A place to set sail, and to settle in.

Dock Your Boat

RENOVATED CLUB. Prioritizing community and worth of renovations in the past year as Contemporary modern design, exquisite enhanced this magnificent setting. Create

WELCOME TO OUR AWARD-WINNING, NEWLY RENOVATED CLUB. Contemporary modern design, exquisite new and redesigned amenities, and elevated service have officially enhanced this magnificent setting.

BAY HARBOR

YACHT CLUB

45º21’39’N 85º1’49’W

Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime with exclusive membership privileges where you can enjoy full, year-round access to all BHYC amenities, programs, activities, and events. Property ownership is not a requirement to join. Contact our Membership Office for more details on joining the Club!

231.439.2112 | membership@bayharboryc.com | bayharboryc.com

BAY HARBOR WATERFRONT

7314 N. PRESERVE DRIVE

150’ ON LAKE MICHIGAN

MLS 470053 | $975,000

BAY HARBOR DOCK

4300 VISTA DRIVE A-18

45’ BOAT SLIP

MLS 470214 | $160,000

BAY HARBOR DOCK

4300 VISTA DRIVE A-25

60’ BOAT SLIP

MLS 469286 | $230,000

BAY HARBOR DOCK

4300 VISTA DRIVE B-08

60’ BOAT SLIP

MLS 469494 | $199,000

LAKE CHARLEVOIX WATERFRONT

08740 BOYNE CITY ROAD

8.48 ACRES | 193’ OF WATERFRONT

PERMIT IN PLACE FOR PRIVATE PIER

MLS 468789 | $2,599,000

WALLOON LAKE WATERFRONT

4454 COTTAGE GROVE

4.94 ACRES | 225’ OF WATERFRONT

MLS 468266 | $2,250,000

PETOSKEY ACREAGE

7341 UPPER BAYSHORE ROAD

163 ACRES | EXCELLENT DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

MLS 466624 | $1,420,000

BAY HARBOR STORAGE

5355 COLLECTIBLES COURT

1,800+/- SQFT. | HEATED WITH BATHROOM

MLS 470149 | $499,000

BAY HARBOR WATER VIEWS

1210 SHORES DRIVE

GOLF & WATERVIEWS

MLS 469468 | $489,000

PETOSKEY PARCEL

500 N. DIVISION ROAD

6.6 ACRES

MLS 469938 | $250,000

ROUND LAKE WATERFRONT CONDO

3480 N. LAKESIDE DRIVE #46

2 BEDS | 2 FULL BATHS | 1,200+/- SQFT

1,000’ OF SHARED FRONTAGE

MLS 469786 | $549,000

BAY HARBOR CONDO

4200 MAIN STREET #206/207

2 BEDS | 21/2 BATHS | 1,330+/- SQFT

MLS 470151 | $399,995

WHY PAT LEAVY

This extraordinary place is where family and friends return each summer to reconnect, reminisce, and enjoy precious moments that you can only experience in northern Michigan; like taking the pontoon boat for a moonlight cruise on your special lake. Everyone deserves the extraordinary because luxury is not about the price- rather it’s about the experience. And when it comes to real estate, experience matters.

I am committed to providing legendary client service with an unparalleled standard of integrity and expertise. I help busy professionals prioritize essential features, conduct tough price negotiations, and get to the closing table as seamlessly as possible. It is always my goal to ensure that my clients receive the most rewarding results when buying, selling, or renting a home up north.

I have been the leader for luxury homes and exceptional properties for sale in this area for over 20 years and I specialize in providing milliondollar service at every price point. No one works harder or makes selling your home easier and more efficient. I am motivated by my client’s success, and I will love every inch of your home while selling it for the highest price in the shortest amount of time. Whatever it takes, I work for you and want you happy.

With three Kidd & Leavy Real Estate locations in Petoskey, Walloon Lake, and Boyne City, I’m able to provide unmatched visibility to enhance the exposure I bring to the lavish homes I represent. Similar to the publication you’re reading today, which is one small piece of my marketing package, I provide superior advertising to all my listings which is unmatched by any other agent. 24 years of building great relationships has allowed me to create an extensive database of qualified buyers and as one of my sellers, you get the advantage of me selling your property before it even hits the market.

I have spent over two decades understanding the Northern Michigan market and I am completely vested in my community. I’m a member of the Bay Harbor Yacht Club, I own a home in downtown Petoskey, a cottage on Walloon Lake, and am also a member of the Detroit Athletic Club (DAC). My community is very important to me and I sit on the Foundation Board of McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital, which has the finest medical care with an easy drive from the most remote places up north.

My priority is to help you achieve your real estate goals and listening is my strong suit that allows me to understand my client’s needs. I would consider it a privilege and a pleasure to work with you. Call me today at 231-838-6700 or email me at patleavy@kiddleavy.com to discuss your goals and your real estate’s value.

Most agents will produce publications similar to this one, but at the end of the day getting results for your clients is what really matters. Whenever you are coming into an area, you want the expert in the industry. My sales history and proven success make me your Northern Michigan real estate expert!

231-838-6700

patleavy@kiddleavy.com

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

We were pleased to work with Pat Leavy and Ashley Friske on the sale of our home. They both provided sound advice, skilled negotiation, and timely service in all aspects of our transaction. We appreciated their professional communications and patient guidance through the entire process. Pat and Ashley know how to do it right! Thank you!

- S. ELWOOD

Working with Pat & Ashley on our recent purchase was an overall wonderful experience! From the initial purchase agreement to the day of closing, they were on it. Every detail was handled with ease. We can’t thank Pat & his team enough for all of their help!

- JOSEPH PALUZZI

Thank you, Pat and Ashley, for helping us to buy a beautiful house in Bay Harbor! Without your help we will never be able to complete this transaction and still be in negotiation process! You are incredibly knowledgeable, understanding, flexible to work with and the greatest negotiator! But the best is your true love for your business and care about your clients. Ashley is a very knowledgeable realtor as well; she answered all my questions and more and was always available to reach by phone or email. I absolutely recommend your group to anyone who is looking to buy or sell homes in this area. Thank you again for all your help! We love it here!

- OLGA PECK