Among the most celebrated locales in Door County, Fish Creek is a captivating enclave overlooking Green Bay. Beyond its charming blend of historical character, waterfront beauty, and thriving cultural scene, Fish Creek offers homebuyers a unique opportunity to own a spectacular home on the Door Peninsula. Below, we look at Fish Creek market trends and the impact on those buying or selling luxury real estate in Door County.
Fish Creek Market Insights
Fish Creek's real estate market is defined by its historic roots, breathtaking waterfront views, and vibrant local culture. The village, located along Highway 42, offers a range of stunning waterfront and water-view properties, each providing a gateway to the tranquil beauty of the bay. Despite its modern amenities, Fish Creek maintains a storybook charm, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a serene retreat and a vibrant community.
The town's lifestyle is a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment. From the natural playground of Peninsula State Park to the creative hub of the Peninsula School of Art, Fish Creek offers abundant activities for residents and visitors alike. Dining and entertainment options are equally impressive, with establishments like Barringer's Restaurant and Alexander's Restaurant offering culinary experiences that celebrate local flavors with a touch of sophistication.
The local real estate market, driven by its unique character and limited availability, is poised for continued growth. As inventory remains tight and demand high, particularly for waterfront properties, prices are expected to maintain their upward trend through 2024. For those looking to invest in Fish Creek, the current market offers opportunity and challenge, with the potential for significant returns in the years to come.
July 2024 Fish Creek Home Price Trends
As of July 2024, Fish Creek's real estate market has seen remarkable growth, split between two distinct price points. With only five listings available heading into the year's second half, the market remains tight, driving up prices significantly. The typical home listing in Fish Creek hits the market between $450,000 to $500,000, with million-dollar waterfront homes along Gibraltar Bluff Road or those north of Main Street and west of Spruce Street often skewing Fish Creek's more typical sales. The million-dollar homes indeed sell but become available far less frequently than those at the lower price point.
So, just how much has Fish Creek's market appreciated?
The community currently ranks 20th among Wisconsin's 50 fastest-growing home price markets between 2019 and 2024. The typical home value in the area is $483,687, reflecting a one-year increase of $33,910 (+7.5%) from the year ending April 2024. The five-year price change is $184,079 (+61.4%). This sustained appreciation underscores Fish Creek's increasing appeal as a desirable location for primary residences and vacation homes. Overall, two additional Door County markets, Egg Harbor (no. 14) and Bailey's Harbor (no. 22), placed among the top 50, a list dominated by markets in Milwaukee-Waukesha, Madison, and Shawano.
Door County Real Estate Summary
The broader Door County market continues to mirror Fish Creek's upward trajectory. Much of the Door Peninsula has seen unabated price growth since 2021, with particular interest in homes and condominiums priced under $500,000. However, these properties are becoming increasingly rare, often leading to multiple offers and swift contracts. Notably, vacant land, particularly in northern Door County, is scarce, with limited availability extending to areas like Sturgeon Bay and its southern regions.
As in Fish Creek, waterfront homes across Door County remain a hot commodity, especially those priced under $3,000,000. With few options below $1,000,000, these properties are quickly snapped up, often in competitive bidding situations. The inventory remains tight across Door County, including in the typically high-demand areas of Sister Bay, Egg Harbor, and Ellison Bay. Fish Creek and Ephraim have seen limited inventory for most of 2023 and 2024, a trend that seems poised to continue into 2025. That isn't to say that properties don't come available, but when they don't linger on the market for long.
Forecast
Looking to the last quarter of 2024 and into 2025, expect Fish Creek's real estate market to maintain its current status quo. We'll see further price increases with limited inventory and strong demand, particularly in the high-end segment. As always, waterfront properties will remain particularly desirable, with the potential for competitive bidding and quick sales being the norm. Should more properties come on the market, we may see a slight easing of the inventory crunch, but overall, the market will remain hyper-competitive.
For prospective buyers, now is the time to act. Whether you're seeking a historic home with stunning bay views, a modern waterfront retreat, or a residence further inland, Fish Creek offers a unique opportunity to invest in one of Wisconsin's most charming and vibrant communities. With the guidance of experienced local real estate professionals, you can navigate the market's complexities and secure your dream property in this idyllic harbor town.
Find Your Dream Home in Fish Creek
Are you ready to explore the best of Door County real estate? Contact Diane Taillon and the team at Arbor Crowne Properties today to start your home-buying journey. Diane and her team's knowledge and expertise will help you navigate the Fish Creek luxury real estate market.
*Header photo courtesy of Arbor Crowne Properties
