Welcome to 3984 5 Mile Road in Traverse City—an opportunity to create your own Northern Michigan retreat on an ideal lot in a location that truly delivers the best of both worlds: quiet countryside living just 1 mile from the shimmering shoreline of Grand Traverse Bay, and only minutes from downtown convenience. This is the kind of property that invites imagination. Set on a beautifully positioned parcel with mature landscaping and open space, the setting already feels intentional—private, established, and ready for someone to take it to the next level. Whether you're envisioning a refined year-round residence, a weekend escape, or a long-term compound with room to grow, the foundation is here. Outdoors, the lifestyle unfolds immediately. A private inground pool anchors the backyard complemented by a covered rear patio designed for long summer evenings, relaxed gatherings, and quiet mornings surrounded by nature. The terraced landscaping adds dimension and character to the yard, while an integrated sprinkler system keeps everything effortlessly maintained and green throughout the season. What truly elevates this property is the rare combination of storage, workspace, and future flexibility. The tandem 2-car attached garage connects seamlessly to the home via a breezeway, offering everyday convenience while also providing a rear section already adapted into heated additional living or recreation space—perfect for a studio, gym, workshop, or bonus lounge. And then there's the bonus structure that opens even more doors. An improved 28x46 pole barn with dedicated workshop space expands the possibilities significantly. With room for additional parking for up to two more vehicles, the property comfortably accommodates four cars total when desired. Whether you're building out a hobby space, housing recreational equipment, or simply planning for future expansion, this structure gives you the freedom to do it. The result is a property that doesn't just offer space—it offers potential. A place where your Northern Michigan vision can evolve over time, shaped by your needs and your imagination. All of this, just minutes from beaches, boating, wineries, dining, and everything Traverse City is known for—yet set just far enough back to feel like your own private escape. If you've been looking for a property that gives you room to breathe, room to build, and room to dream, this is one worth seeing in person.