Which of These Lake Michigan Homes Suits You Best?

Let’s play a game of “Would You Rather” with a real estate twist. Would you rather live in a Third Ward condo with stunning skyline views, or a historic home near Lake Park?

The Third Ward condo is a fourth-floor corner unit with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the harbor (and the Hoan Bridge!). It has a two-sided fireplace, a modern kitchen outfitted with walnut cabinets and granite countertops, a 55-foot gallery wall and two indoor parking spots.

The Lake Drive house is a 99-year-old Mediterranean Revival mansion with an airy interior. Some rooms, including the kitchen, are in need of a refresh, but it comes with lots of extras: an attached garage, a second-story kitchenette, three replaces, an indoor sauna and a stained-glass skylight.

Personally, I’d be more than willing to sacrifice a little square footage to live right in the Third Ward. But even in the middle of summer, that Finnish-style sauna is calling to me.

Disclaimer: These houses were on the market at the time this article was written, but one or both of them may have been purchased before this magazine reached you. Check a listing website like redfin.com for the latest information.