The honest answers, including the unflattering ones.

Yes. The property owns 180 feet of frontage and the only access from the bluff is our stair, so in practice you will have it to yourself. Michigan law allows the public to walk the wet sand below the ordinary high-water mark, so you will occasionally see someone pass by along the water line.

Ninety-six cedar steps in four switchbacked flights, with landings and handrails throughout. Most guests find it easy going down and a genuine effort coming up. It is not suitable for anyone with mobility limitations, and we would not recommend the house for a group where that matters.

Two nights most of the year, three nights on holiday weekends, and seven nights Saturday-to-Saturday from late June through Labor Day. Outside peak season we are often flexible on shorter or split stays — just ask.

Keyless. You will get a door code and a short arrival note three days before your stay, with parking, wifi, and where the good coffee is. There is no key handover and no meeting anyone unless you want to.

Two dogs of any size, for a flat $150 per stay. There is an outdoor rinse shower for sandy paws and a gated section of yard. We ask that they stay off beds and sofas, and that they are not left alone in the house.

Full refund if you cancel more than 60 days before check-in, minus a $150 administration fee. Between 60 and 30 days, 50% refund. Inside 30 days the stay is non-refundable, though we will refund anything we manage to rebook. We recommend travel insurance for peak-season stays.

We take 50% to confirm the dates and the balance 30 days before arrival, by card or bank transfer through a secure link. A refundable $500 damage hold is placed three days before check-in and released within five days of check-out.

Genuinely, yes. Fibre internet at 900 Mbps, a dedicated desk with an external monitor in the garden room, and a screened porch that is a very pleasant place to take a call in September.

Not a formal event, no — the septic system and our neighbours both have limits. A family dinner for the twelve people staying at the house is fine. Anything larger needs a conversation with us first, and the answer is usually a friendly no.

Linens, towels, beach towels, starter coffee and tea, oil, salt, pepper, paper goods, and cleaning supplies are all here. Bring your own groceries, sunscreen, and whatever you want to drink. There is a Family Fare eight minutes away and a very good farm stand at the end of the road in summer.