The iconic red corner building in the heart of Suttons Bay’s commercial district (223 N. Saint Joseph, MLS# 1898352) was listed this month.

The $725,000 asking price is for the real estate only. Retail businesses that call the 3259 square-foot space home — northern Michigan’s science store, Enerdyne, and the game and toy boutique Brain Storm! — are not included in the sale.

Property owner Dick Cookman shares that he’s “seeking an alternative investment,” and that he plans on negotiating a leaseback agreement for the building for two years (with an option to extend an additional two years). Cookman has owned and operated Enerdyne in various locales in the village for 41 years.

He notes Brain Storm! will also continue its lease.

Cookman shares that the 1895 building — with 12-foot ceilings — was originally a Suttons Bay saloon. “There are bullet holes upstairs, and we know they played horseshoes upstairs. It was a wild place back then.” It has also housed a grocery, hardware, and interior design store.

Listing agent Cory Beuerle of Century 21 Northland adds there is bonus potential in the unfinished upper level, complete with bay views. “Another huge plus is the Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization (NBPI) installed on the HVAC system for air quality and safety,” she says. 

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