In this short instructional video, the speaker outlines the essential variables to assess when evaluating waterfront property on Omena Bay, a naturally sheltered harbor within Grand Traverse Bay. The key factors include: (1) the parcel’s orientation relative to the dominant wind, which affects exposure and wave action; (2) the bottom composition at the site, influencing anchoring and dock construction; (3) the depth 50–100 feet offshore and the gradient of the drop‑off, which determines the required dock length; (4) long‑term water‑level fluctuations that impact usability over time; and (5) the adjustability of the dock to accommodate those fluctuations. The speaker emphasizes that Omena Bay’s behavior is governed by its landform, prevailing wind directions, and repeatable seasonal cycles that have persisted for decades, shaping how any waterfront property will function.
