Could be my new place?

Yooper, might I suggest that you check with local banks, and search online for foreclosure properties.

http://www.realtor.com/michigan/nbselmi.asp?st=mi&source=web comes to mind.

You would be surprised with what you might find. Places down here in the southern part of the state are selling for pennies on the dollar if you have access to cash. I assume it would be the same in the UP eh!

Example: House built not too far from me sold for 1/2 million on it's first sale. The people lost it and it sold last summer for 43.000 cash. Sits on 5 acres, beautiful large newer home with finished basement and walkout.

Might be worth a shot. You could possibly find something very inexpensive.