If you’re considering a move to Grand Rapids, one of the first questions you’ll ask is simple: what does it actually cost to live here month to month? While Grand Rapids remains more affordable than many larger metro areas, costs can vary significantly depending on neighborhood, housing type, and lifestyle choices.

This guide breaks down the real cost of living in Grand Rapids—from housing and utilities to transportation and taxes—so buyers and relocating residents can better understand what to expect before making a move.

👉 If you’re relocating, our complete guide to moving to Grand Rapids, MI offers a broader overview of neighborhoods, schools, and the local housing market.

Housing Costs in Grand Rapids

Housing is the largest factor influencing overall cost of living in Grand Rapids. Prices vary widely based on:

• Neighborhood

• Proximity to downtown

• School district

• Home type (single-family, condo, multi-family)

Some buyers are surprised to learn that two homes with similar square footage can differ dramatically in price simply due to location. Entry-level homes, move-up properties, and newer construction all occupy very different segments of the local market.

👉 You can explore current price ranges through Grand Rapids homes for sale and nearby communities.

Housing costs typically represent the largest portion of monthly expenses for most households, often accounting for 25–35% of total housing-related spending depending on price range and financing structure.

Utilities and Everyday Expenses

Utilities in Grand Rapids are generally manageable, though seasonal changes affect costs.

Common considerations include:

• Heating costs during winter months

• Electricity and water usage

• Internet and mobile services

Home age and energy efficiency play a significant role, which is why buyers often weigh charm versus operating costs when comparing properties.

Transportation and Commuting Costs

Compared to larger cities, commuting in Grand Rapids is typically straightforward and affordable.

Most residents benefit from:

• Shorter drive times

• Easy highway access

• Lower fuel costs than major metros

Transportation expenses can vary based on commute distance, but many buyers find they spend less time and money getting around than expected.

Taxes and Local Cost Factors

Property taxes and income taxes are important considerations for homeowners moving to Michigan.

Key things buyers should know:

• Property taxes vary by municipality and school district

• Homestead exemptions can reduce owner-occupied tax rates

• Millages and assessments differ by area

Because taxes are location-specific, understanding them at the neighborhood level is far more helpful than relying on city-wide averages.

👉 Neighborhood-specific insights are covered in our Grand Rapids neighborhoods guide.

How Cost of Living Varies by Neighborhood

One of the biggest advantages of Grand Rapids is the ability to choose a neighborhood that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Buyers will notice:

• Urban neighborhoods often carry higher price-per-square-foot

• Suburban communities may offer more space for the cost

• Outlying towns can provide larger lots and quieter settings

This flexibility allows buyers to prioritize what matters most—whether that’s walkability, schools, space, or long-term value.

👉 Our Best Grand Rapids neighborhoods for home buyers guide compares lifestyle and pricing across popular areas.

How Grand Rapids Compares to Other Midwest Cities

Many relocating buyers find Grand Rapids offers a strong balance between affordability and quality of life when compared to other Midwest metros.

Common comparisons include:

• Lower housing costs than larger regional cities

• Competitive wages relative to cost of living

• Access to amenities without big-city congestion

For buyers moving from higher-cost regions, Grand Rapids often allows for increased purchasing power.

Final Thoughts on the Cost of Living in Grand Rapids

While no city is immune to rising costs, Grand Rapids continues to offer a relatively balanced cost of living—especially for home buyers who take time to understand neighborhood-level differences.

By focusing on housing, taxes, and lifestyle priorities, buyers can make informed decisions and avoid surprises after relocating.

👉 If you’re considering a move, start by exploring homes and neighborhoods that align with your budget and lifestyle goals.

Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important decisions home buyers make when moving to Grand Rapids. While price and home features matter, lifestyle, location, and long-term value often matter just as much.

Grand Rapids offers a wide range of neighborhoods—from walkable urban areas to quieter suburban communities—each with its own character and pricing trends. This guide breaks down some of the best Grand Rapids neighborhoods for home buyers and explains how to decide which area fits your goals.

» If you’re relocating, start with our complete guide to Moving to Grand Rapids to understand the broader market first.

How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Grand Rapids

Before focusing on a specific area, buyers should consider a few core questions:

• Do you prefer walkability or more space?

• Is school district a priority?

• How important is commute time?

• Are you buying for long-term stability or flexibility?

In Grand Rapids, neighborhoods just minutes apart can feel very different, which is why understanding lifestyle fit is key.

Best Neighborhoods for Walkability & Urban Living

Buyers who enjoy restaurants, coffee shops, and easy access to downtown often gravitate toward Grand Rapids’ more urban neighborhoods.

These areas typically feature:

• Older homes with character

• Smaller lots

• Higher demand for well-maintained properties

• Strong resale interest

Urban neighborhoods appeal to professionals, creatives, and buyers who value convenience and culture.

» Explore walkable areas and nearby listings through our Grand Rapids neighborhoods guide.

For specific local comparisons, explore Eastown's older homes and Wealthy Street area, Heritage Hill's historic houses and condos, and Creston's north-side housing and parks. Compare individual addresses, property condition and routes to the places you use.

Alger Heights offers established southeast-side housing around the Alger Street business area and Seymour library. Ottawa Hills adds winding residential streets and varied architecture in Grand Rapids, beside the separate East Grand Rapids city. Riverside Gardens focuses on residential blocks near Riverside Park within the broader Creston association area. Compare actual addresses, property condition, parking and routes to your destinations.

Best Neighborhoods for Families & Long-Term Living

Many buyers prioritize space, schools, and long-term stability. Suburban-style neighborhoods around Grand Rapids often offer:

• Larger homes and yards

• Quieter streets

• Strong owner-occupancy

• Consistent resale demand

These areas tend to attract move-up buyers and families planning to stay for several years.

» Browse communities popular with families in Ada, Rockford, and Hudsonville.

Best Neighborhoods for First-Time Home Buyers

First-time buyers often focus on value, affordability, and future appreciation. Certain Grand Rapids neighborhoods provide:

• More accessible price points

• A mix of housing styles

• Opportunity to build equity over time

Buyers who remain flexible on finishes or updates often find strong long-term value in these areas.

» View current listings and price ranges across  Grand Rapids and West Michigan. 

Neighborhoods Offering Long-Term Value & Appreciation

Some buyers prioritize neighborhoods with strong historical appreciation and continued demand. These areas typically share:

• Desirable locations

• Limited inventory

• High buyer competition

• Strong resale performance

While entry prices may be higher, these neighborhoods often hold value well through market cycles.

How Pricing Varies by Neighborhood

Home prices in Grand Rapids vary widely depending on:

• Proximity to downtown

• School district

• Lot size and housing age

• Overall demand

Understanding neighborhood-level pricing helps buyers avoid overextending—or missing opportunities where value exists.

» Our Moving to Grand Rapids, MI guide explains how pricing, inventory, and demand vary across the city.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Grand Rapids Neighborhood

There is no single “best” neighborhood in Grand Rapids—only the best fit for your lifestyle, budget, and goals. Buyers who take time to understand how neighborhoods differ tend to feel more confident and satisfied with their purchase long-term.

If you’re early in your search, exploring multiple areas and watching how homes move within each neighborhood can provide valuable insight before making a decision.

» Start exploring available homes by neighborhood to see what fits your plans.

Grand Rapids, Michigan, a regional center of culture and commerce, has become one of the most popular places to relocate in the Midwest. With a strong job market, diverse neighborhoods, and a relatively affordable housing market compared to larger metro areas, Grand Rapids attracts everyone from first-time buyers to growing families and relocating professionals. I have personally even worked with a few sets of former "snowbirds" moving back to West Michigan from Florida, because they preferred the Midwestern climate.

Considering a move to West Michigan? This guide will walk you through what to expect—from housing costs and neighborhoods to schools and the local real estate market—so you can make informed decisions before buying a home.

Start Here: Key Guides for Moving to Grand Rapids 

• Best Grand Rapids Neighborhoods for Home Buyers 
• What It Really Costs to Live in Grand Rapids 
• Renting vs Buying in Grand Rapids 
• How School Districts Affect Home Prices 
• How Long It Takes to Buy a Home in Grand Rapids 

Why People Are Moving to Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids consistently draws new residents because it offers a balance that’s hard to find elsewhere:

• A growing economy anchored by healthcare, manufacturing, and tech, among other industries

• A vibrant downtown with restaurants, breweries, and entertainment. In 2026-27, two great new amenities will open downtown - Acrisure Amphitheater and Amway Stadium. 

• Easy access to Lake Michigan, trails, and outdoor recreation, and its a "golf mecca" 6 months of the year

• Distinct neighborhoods with very different lifestyles and price points

For many buyers, Grand Rapids feels like a “big small city”—large enough to offer opportunity, but still manageable day-to-day. For a small city, GR has world class amenities.

Cost of Living in Grand Rapids

Compared to many metro areas across the U.S., Grand Rapids remains relatively affordable, though prices have increased in recent years.

Housing costs vary significantly depending on:

• Neighborhood

• School district

• Proximity to downtown and access to transportation

• Housing type (single-family, condo, multi-family)

Utilities, transportation, and everyday expenses generally fall below national averages, which is one reason many relocating buyers find they can afford more home here than in their previous city.

The Grand Rapids Housing Market Overview

The Grand Rapids housing market has been competitive for several years, though conditions shift seasonally and year-to-year.

Key things buyers should understand:

• Inventory levels vary by price point and neighborhood

• Well-priced homes often sell quickly

• New construction exists but is limited in some areas

• Multiple-offer situations are still common in certain segments

Buyers moving from out of state are often surprised by how localized the market can be—two neighborhoods just minutes apart may behave very differently.

Grand Rapids Neighborhoods: Finding the Right Fit

One of the biggest advantages of Grand Rapids is the variety of neighborhoods available. Rather than one “best” area, buyers tend to choose based on lifestyle.

Popular Neighborhood Types Include:

• Urban & walkable areas near downtown

• Established neighborhoods with homes showing character

• Suburban communities with newer housing and larger lots

• Outlying towns offering more space and quieter living

Each area comes with its own pricing trends, housing styles, and long-term appreciation patterns.

For example, here's an urban neighborhood and a suburban area to compare and contrast:  Riverside Gardens and Ada.

Schools and School District Considerations

School districts play a major role in home values and buyer demand throughout the Grand Rapids area. Some buyers prioritize district boundaries, while others focus more on specific programs or commute convenience.

Important considerations:

• District boundaries don’t always align with city boundaries

• School reputation can affect resale value

• Taxes and millage amounts may vary by district

Because school preferences are highly personal, buyers benefit from reviewing multiple areas rather than focusing on a single metric.

Commuting, Transportation, and Daily Life

Most residents find commuting around Grand Rapids manageable compared to larger cities. Major highways provide easy access to downtown, surrounding suburbs, and neighboring communities.

Many buyers also appreciate:

• Shorter drive times

• Growing bike and trail networks

• Proximity to parks, rivers, and recreation

Lifestyle fit often matters just as much as the house itself.

Buying vs Renting in Grand Rapids

For those relocating, deciding whether to rent or buy first is a common question.

Buying may make sense if:

• You plan to stay several years

• You want predictable housing costs

• You’re comfortable navigating a competitive market

Renting may make sense if:

• You’re new to the area

• You want time to explore neighborhoods

• Your timeline is uncertain

Local guidance can be especially helpful here, since rent prices and availability vary widely.

How to Start Your Home Search in Grand Rapids

For most buyers, the best first steps include:

1. Exploring neighborhoods that match your lifestyle

2. Understanding current pricing in those areas

3. Getting clear on budget and financing

4. Watching how quickly homes are selling

From there, buyers can narrow their focus and move forward confidently when the right opportunity appears.

Here's a few communities to check out:  Heritage Hill, Hudsonville, and Lowell

Final Thoughts on Moving to Grand Rapids

Relocating to Grand Rapids offers a mix of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life that continues to attract buyers from across the country. The key is understanding how local neighborhoods, pricing, and market conditions differ so you can make informed decisions from the start.

If you’re exploring a move, taking time to research—and working with someone who understands the nuances of the local market—can make all the difference.

See four units in one stop!

Saturday Noon-2pm

Unit 621C- $185,000

Click photo to see unit details.

Unit 207- $220,000 

Unit 212- $234,000 

Unit 125- $245,000

Even if you think they've already started to freeze.

Article From HouseLogic.com

By: Jamie Wiebe

Published: November 02, 2015

New homeowners may have heard that winterization is important, but in the hubbub of your first year living in a home you own (finally!), it can be easy to overlook the need to prepare for the cold weather ahead. After all, it's just not something renters deal with; prepping pipes for winter is often the landlord's job.

Ideally, you should winterize your pipes in the fall, before winter seriously sets in. But if you've forgotten and all of a sudden you're in the middle of a deep freeze, there's still time to prevent disaster.

Here are some easy techniques to save your pipes from bursting:

#1 Turn On Your Faucets

If the temperatures have dropped into freezing and intend to stay there, turning on your faucets -- both indoors and out -- can keep water moving through your system and slow down the freezing process. There's no need to waste gallons of water: Aim for about five drips per minute.

#2 Open Cabinet Doors

During cold weather, open any cabinet doors covering plumbing in the kitchen and bathroom. This allows the home's warm air to better circulate, which can help prevent the exposed piping from freezing. While this won't help much with pipes hidden in walls, ceilings, or under the home, it can keep water moving and limit the dangerous effects of freezing weather.

#3 Wrap Your Pipes

If your pipes are already on their merry way towards freezing, wrapping them with warm towels might do the trick. You can cover them with the towels first and then pour boiling water on top, or use already-wet towels -- if your hands can stand the heat (use gloves for this). This should help loosen the ice inside and get your system running again.

#4 Pull Out Your Hairdryer

A hairdryer (or heat gun) can be a godsend when your pipes are freezing. If hot rags aren't doing the trick, try blowing hot air directly on the pipes. Important note: You don't want to use a blow torch or anything that produces direct flames, which can damage your pipes and turn a frozen pipe into an even worse disaster. You're trying to melt the ice -- not your pipes.

#5 Shut Off The Water if Pipes Are Frozen

Have your pipes already frozen? Turn off the water immediately. (Hopefully you know where the master shut-off is, but if not, now's the time to find it!)

Make sure to close off any external water sources, like garden hose hookups. This will prevent more water from filling the system, adding more ice to the pile, and eventually bursting your pipes -- the worst-case scenario. This also will help when the water thaws; the last thing you want after finally fixing your frozen pipes is for water to flood the system -- and thus, your home.

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this. Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®Copyright 2019.  All rights reserved.

By: Amy  Howell Hirt
Published: October 19, 2016

Solve the problem of corralling your stuff once and for all.

You purged. You donated. You discarded. Yet, even with excess items banished from your home, clutter is creeping back in. The real culprit? All those household essentials and cherished keepsakes still need a tidy, convenient spot to live. Without accessible storage, these must-haves quickly take over countertops and corners, garages, and the great outdoors. But with a little creativity, you can reclaim these spaces while keeping all your things right in reach.

Get inspired to declutter your home with these clever solutions that turn everyday items and locations into sneaky storage spots right under your nose.

1. Curate Your Clutter

Sometimes the difference between "clutter" and "collection" is all in the presentation. After falling in love with film photography as a student, Nicholas Hendrickx amassed an expansive assortment of cameras -- from $1 thrift-shop finds to high-end brands like Hasselblad -- scattered throughout his home.

To give his treasures the respect they deserve, he invested in a simple display case from Ikea -- white to match the other cabinetry in his work space. Through Hendrickx's careful spacing and grouping, even old flashbulbs and film holders are now part of an artful installation.

"It's nice to be surrounded by these beautiful cameras that each have a memory connected to it," he says.

2. Capitalize on Crevices

That 6-inch space between your refrigerator and the wall can either be a destination for dust bunnies or the answer to your small-kitchen storage woes. Classy Clutter blogger Mallory Nikolaus spent just $110 to build a pull-out pantry for canned goods and spices. The 64-by-31-inch cabinet is constructed of primed pine boards and dowels, with a handle and metal casters that allow it to smoothly slide back into its slim space -- not that this creation deserves to be hidden. The polished yet quirky piece is finished with beadboard on the back and a spray-painted chevron pattern inside.

Because it's supported by the wall on one side and the refrigerator on the other, Nikolaus notes it's important not to pull the cabinet out too far.

3. Conceal an Eyesore, Create Storage

Who doesn't love a double-duty fix? For a mere $10, this yard-sale armoire enabled handy homeowner Melodye Farrar to conceal her home's electric and cable boxes and create built-in storage for a garden hose and cleaning supplies.

Situated next to the back door, the space was a longtime eyesore, but it took just one day to remedy. Farrar and her husband removed the top and back of the armoire and built a concrete-stone foundation to keep the cabinetry out of any standing water. Two L-brackets and concrete anchors secure the top of the armoire to the wall, and a coat of marine varnish protects the wood from the elements.

For Farrar, the cabinet makes it much more enjoyable to entertain in the surrounding garden area, with cleaning supplies close at hand yet out of sight.

4. Beef Up Bed Storage

Your bed takes up prime real estate in your home. And for all but eight hours of the day, it doesn't serve much of a purpose. Why not put that space to work? Beds with built-in drawers are convenient for in-season clothing, while lift-up mattresses like this Ikea model offer a box-spring-size storage area for items you don't reach for every day.

Prefer to DIY your way to clever bed storage? Atlanta-based organizing expert Gigi Miller suggests going the old-school route. Those risers you relied on in your cramped college dorm room will lift your bed from 3 to 6 inches off the ground, providing enough space to slide storage containers underneath. Miller recommends clear containers on wheels for maximum ease, and canvas bins lined with cedar planks for keeping clothing fresh.

5. Pegboard Pots and Pans

Julia Child knew how to cook. She also knew how to keep her kitchen organized. One of its most renowned features? A floor-to-ceiling pegboard for her French copper pots and pans. It's an ideal way to gain storage by using vertical surfaces. And it's affordable. A basic 2-by-4-foot pegboard made of plastic or pressed wood will run you less than $10, and a starter kit with mounting hardware and hooks costs less than $20.

As for the aesthetics, "A kitchen pegboard can be both functional and beautiful if done right," Miller says. Paint, frame, or cover it with fabric for a pop of personality and color, and keep the look polished by grouping similar items -- pots and pans on one board, utensils on another.

6. Make a Mobile Yard Work Station

It's a condition that can afflict even the most organized garage: Little by little, all those yard and garden tools find their way onto workbenches and the floor, crowding out cars and humans alike. Professional organizer Amanda Kovattana fought back, using reclaimed materials to reclaim her garage.

This ingenious rolling cart is constructed from two doors, unused sewer pipe, and salvaged closet rods -- all mounted on four beefy casters. The one material Kovattana purchased for the project: a pegboard for odds and ends that might otherwise end up on the floor.

This project took Kovattana, an experienced carpenter, about six hours to build. But even for a novice, the time invested will pay off in spades when you don't need a search party to find the darn rake.

The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes and entertainment. Before you make any major decisions using this information, we would love to hear from you and discuss your individual situation! Call us today at (616)439-1190

By: Amy  Howell Hirt
Published: May 01, 2017

How not to make money mistakes as a fledgling homeowner.

The negotiations are over. Your mortgage is settled. The keys to your first home are in hand.

Finally, you can install your dream patio.

You can paint the walls without losing your security deposit.

Heck, you could knock out a wall. You're soooo ready to be a homeowner.

So ready in fact, you're about to make some costly mistakes.

Wait, whaaat?

"You have to rein it in and be smart," says Daniel Kanter, a homeowner with five years under his belt. Especially in your first year, when your happiness, eagerness (and sometimes ignorance) might convince you to make one of these eight mistakes:

#1 Going With the Lowest Bid

The sounds your HVAC system is making clearly require the knowledge of a professional (or perhaps an exorcist?).

But you've been smart and gotten three contractor bids, so why not go with the lowest price?

You might want to check out this story from a Michigan couple. Rather than going with a remodeler who'd delivered good work in the past, they hired a contractor offering to complete the work for less than half the cost, in less time.

A year later, their house was still a construction zone. You don't want to be in the same spot.

What to do: Double-check that all bids include the same project scope -- sometimes one is cheaper because it doesn't include all the actual costs and details of the project. The contractor may lack the experience to know of additional steps and costs.

#2 Submitting Small Insurance Claims

Insurance is there to cover damage to your property, so why not use it?

Because the maddening reality is that filing a claim or two, especially in a relatively short period, can trigger an increase in your premium. "As a consumer advocate, I hate telling people not to use something they paid for," says Amy Bach, executive director of nonprofit United Policyholders, which works to empower consumers. But, it's better to pay out of pocket than submit claims that are less than your deductible.

Save your insurance for the catastrophic stuff. "You want the cleanest record possible," Bach says. "You want to be seen as the lowest risk. It's like a driving record -- the more tickets you have, the more your insurance."

Some insurance groups, like the Insurance Information Institute and National Association of Insurance Commissioners, say it's hard to generalize about premium increases because states' and providers' rules differ. But this stat from a report by UP and the Rutgers Center for Risk and Responsibility at Rutgers Law School is pretty sobering: Only two states -- Rhode Island and Texas -- got top marks for protecting consumers "from improper rate increases and non-renewals" just for making:

•An inquiry about a claim
•A claim that isn't paid because it was less than the deductible
•A single claim

Your best protection? Maintaining your home so small claims don't even materialize.

#3 Making Improvements Without Checking the ROI

Brandon Hedges, a realtor in Minneapolis-St. Paul, recalls a couple who, though only planning to stay in their home for a few years, quickly replaced all their windows. When the time came to sell, he had to deliver the crushing news that they wouldn't get back their full investment -- more than $30,000.

New windows can be a great investment if you're sticking around for awhile, especially if windows are beyond repair, and you want to save on energy bills.

Just because you might personally value an upgrade doesn't mean the market will. "It's easy to build yourself out of your neighborhood" and invest more than you can recoup at resale, says Linda Sowell, a REALTOR? in Memphis, Tenn.

What to do: Before you pick up a sledgehammer, check with an agent or appraiser, who usually are happy to share their knowledge about how much moola an improvement will eventually deliver.

#4 Going on a Furnishing Spree

When you enter homeownership with an apartment's worth of furnishings, entire rooms in your new home are depressingly sparse. You want to feel settled. You want guests at your housewarming party to be able to sit on real furniture.

But try to exercise some retailing willpower. Investing in high-quality furniture over time is just smarter than blowing your budget on a whole house worth of particleboard discount items all at once.

What to do: Live in your home for a while, and you'll get to know your space. Your living room may really need two full couches, not the love seat and a recliner you pictured there.

#5 Throwing Away Receipts and Paperwork

Shortly after moving in, your sump pump dies. You begrudgingly pay for a new one and try to forget about the cash you just dropped. But don't! When it comes time to sell, improvements as small as this are like a resume-builder for your home that can boost its price. And, if problems arise down the road, warranty information for something like a new furnace could save you hundreds.

What to do: Stow paperwork like receipts, contracts, and manuals in a three-ring binder with clear plastic sleeves, or photograph your documents and upload them to cloud storage.

#6 Ignoring Small Items on Your Inspection Report

Use your inspection report as your very first home to-do list -- even before you start perusing paint colors. Minor issues that helped take a chunk of change off the sale price can cause cumulative (and sometimes hazardous) damage. Over time, loose gutters could yield thousands in foundation damage. Uninsulated pipes? You could pay hundreds to a plumber when they crack in freezing temperatures. And a single faulty electric outlet could indicate dangerous ungrounded electricity.

What to do: Get the opinion and estimate of a contractor (usually at no charge), and then you can make an informed decision. But remember #1 above.

#7 Remodeling Without Doing the Research

No one wants to be a Negative Nancy, but there's a benefit to knowing the worst-case scenario.

Homeowner Kanter tells the time he hired roofers to remove box gutters from his 1880s home. Little did he know, more often than not aged box gutters come with more extensive rot damage, which his roofers weren't qualified to handle.

"We had to have four different contractors come in and close stuff up for the winter," he says. Had he researched the problem, he could have saved money and anxiety by hiring a specialist from the start, he says.

What to do: Before beginning a project, thoroughly research it. Ask neighbors. Ask detailed questions of contractors so you can get your timing, budget, and expectations in line.

#8 Buying Cheap Tools

You need some basic tools for your first home -- a hammer, screwdriver set, a ladder, maybe a mower.

But if you pick up a "novelty" kit (like those cute pink ones) or inexpensive off-brand items, don't be surprised if they break right away, or if components like batteries have to be replaced frequently.

What to do: For a budget-friendly start, buy used tools from known quality brands (check online auctions or local estate sales) that the pros themselves use.

The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes and entertainment. Before you make any major decisions using this information, we would love to hear from you and discuss your individual situation! Call us today at (616)439-1190.

By: Stacey Freed
Published: October 05, 2017

Like telling your lights to turn on and off when you're miles away.

Your home: You love it, but sometimes you have to leave it.

Whether it's the eight hours a day or eight days on a dreamy beach, allowing your biggest investment to fend for itself can be stressful. And it's a legit concern; when your home looks empty, break-ins happen. A lot. Ugh.

You could deter burglars by never leaving your house again. Or you could do the next best (OK, way better) thing, and just make it look like someone is there all the time. Here's how.

#1 Light Up a Room (From the Road)

Your parents may still rely on their lighting timer -- on at 8 p.m., off at 7 a.m. That old-fashioned option still works, but apps are more fun. They not only turn your lights on and off, but can do so randomly for a more realistic effect. And you can decide to flip on your porch light while sipping a mojito in Fiji.

You can Google your options, but one affordable example is the Lutron Casta Wireless system (about $80 for the device and $55 per switch). You replace your current wall switches with these wireless ones and "talk" to your lights from afar.

#2 Fake a Netflix Binge

Nothing says "we are definitely home" like the colorful glare of a television dancing in the window.

Put the little FakeTV gizmo where it can project light onto a curtain, and that's exactly what your home will say to passersby.

The device (which runs between about $20 and $40 depending on size) plugs into an adapter and can either work on a timer or with a light sensor, so it can switch on when it gets dark.

#3 Change Up Your Shades Remotely

Leave your window shades down while you're gone and you might as well put out a "Gone Fishin'" sign.

Check out wireless options to throw some shade on the go. Several companies have systems -- including Hunter Douglas PowerView, Pella Insynctive, and Lutron Serena -- that allow shades to go up and down at your command for about $300 to $500 a window.

#4 Make Some Noise

Burglars can change plans in a hurry at the first sound of life inside a home -- they're a bit tetchy that way. So one option when you're just gone for the day is a noise app, like Sleep And Noise Sounds that can play on a homebound phone, tablet, or computer. With noises like vacuuming and a boiling kettle, it can deter a thief who cracks open a window.

#5 Make Them Ring And Run

"Burglars will often ring your doorbell, and if no one answers, they'll go around back and kick in the door," says Deputy Michael Favata with the Monroe County Sheriff's office in New York. Now you can answer the door with the Ring Video Doorbell ($180 for the basic model).

If someone pushes the doorbell, you can talk to them through an app on your phone. Whether it's your nosey neighbor or a sketchy stranger, you can say, "I'm in the basement" while you're really on the slopes. They'll never know. And even if they don't believe you, they know they're being watched (insert devilish laugh here).

#6 Try a No-Tech Technique

Not everything requires a gadget. Here are ways to up your home security without downloading a single app:

•Hire a house sitter. Then someone will be home.
•If there's snow, have a neighbor walk up and down the path to your door, shovel a passage up to the garage door and drive in and out of the driveway. If it's hot out, ask them to keep your plants looking fresh with regular waterings. And don't forget to bring them a nice gift from your getaway.
•Ask friends, family, or neighbors to just be present on your property -- use your patio, play in your yard, or bring in the mail.
•Invite a neighbor to keep a car parked in your driveway. During the holidays, they may be happy if they need overflow for visitors.
•Install a fake security camera for as low as $8. Burglars may not notice these fakes don't have all the wiring necessary to be real. And their blinking red lights offer reasonable doubt.
•Get a dog. A real dog. While you're at work or running errands, nothing deters bad guys and gals like a barking, slobbery security guard. And when you go away, having a pet sitter stay can be as economical as some boarding facilities (especially if you have multiple dogs), and you'll get the benefit of a human and canine sentinel.

The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes and entertainment. Before you make any major decisions using this information, we would love to hear from you and discuss your individual situation! Call us today at (616)439-1190.

By: HouseLogic
Published: February 27, 2018

Getting smart -- about what to do, ask, and avoid -- can move you ahead of the crowd.

Ah, the open house -- a chance to wander through other people's homes and imagine yourself knocking out walls and gut rehabbing their kitchens. This is what dreams are made of (or at least episodes of HGTV).

In all seriousness, going to open houses (and scheduled private showings) is one of the most exciting parts of the home-buying experience. Beyond the voyeuristic thrill, visiting houses allows you to assess things that you just can't see online.

Anyone who has taken a super-posed selfie knows that a picture doesn't always tell the whole truth. Professional listing photos can make small rooms look spacious, make dim rooms bright, and mask other flaws of a home -- but you don't know any of that until you actually see the house yourself.

You can tour houses at any point, but it can be helpful to first discuss your needs and wants with your partner (if you have one), do some online research, and talk with your agent and your lender. That way, you -- and your agent -- can take a targeted approach, which saves you time and can give you an edge over your buying competition.

So, before you start viewing, follow these tips to get prepared.

Make It Your Job to Know Which Houses Are "Open"

There are four ways to know when a house is available for viewing:

•Ask your agent. He or she will have details on specific properties and can keep you informed of open houses that fit your criteria.
•Use listing websites. A number of property sites let you search active listings for upcoming open houses. On realtor.com?, for instance, when searching for properties, scroll over the "Buy" tab and click the "Open Houses" link to see upcoming ones in your area.
•Scroll social media. On Instagram, for example, you can search the hashtag #openhouse, or similar tags for your city (#openhousedallas, for example), to discover open houses. Many real estate agents and brokerages also post open house announcements on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter; find ones from your area and start following.
•Drive around. Cruise through the neighborhoods you're interested in -- it's a good way to get a sense of the area amenities -- and look for open house signs.

And while you're searching, be sure to jot down the location, time, and date for any open house that strikes your fancy. It will make it that much easier to plan times and routes for hitting as many homes as possible.

Get There Early (and Say Hi to the Neighbors)

If you're seriously interested in a home, show up to the open house early. That way you'll beat the rush, and the agent showing the house (AKA the host) will have time to focus on you and your questions.

And don't be shy! Many home buyers hop from one open house to the next without talking to the listing agent. But chatting up the host can help you learn information that you wouldn't get by only touring the premises.

If a house seems like a match, take a walk around the neighborhood. Strike up conversations with the neighbors to get an insider's perspective on what life in that community is really like -- families, singles, what the vibe on the block is like, and whether the homeowner's or condo association (if there is one) is easy to work with.

Ask Lots of Questions, But Avoid TMI

To make the most of your open house visits, have a list of questions in mind for the host -- and take notes while you're there, so you can keep track of what you learned.

At the same time, remember this: Your interaction with the host could be the beginning of negotiations with them. If you end up making an offer, you'll use the information you've gathered to inform your bid. (They'll also remember that you were an engaged yet courteous person, which can't hurt your cause.)

Equally important: Oversharing could hurt your negotiating power.

Be careful about what information you share with the agent hosting the event. This person works for the seller -- not you. The host can and will use stats they've gleaned about you to counter, reject, or accept an offer.

Keeping that in mind, here are eight questions you can ask a host to help determine whether a house is a good fit for you:

Have you received any offers? If there are already bids on the table, you'll have to move quickly if you want to make an offer. Keep in mind: Listing agents can't disclose the amount of any other offers, though -- only whether they exist. When does the seller want to move? Find out the seller's timeline. If the seller is in a hurry (say, for a new job), they may be willing to accept an offer that's below list price. When is the seller looking to close? Price isn't the only factor for many home sellers. One way to strengthen your offer is to propose a settlement date that's ideal for them. For example, a 30- to 45-day closing is standard in many markets, but the seller may want more time if they haven't purchased their next home yet. Is the seller flexible on price? Most listing agents won't tip their hand when you ask this question, but there's always a chance the agent says "yes." And, in some instances, the seller has authorized their agent to tell interested buyers that the price is negotiable. In any case, you might as well ask. (It's kind of like googling for a coupon code when you buy something online.) How many days has the home been on the market? You can find this information on the internet, but the seller's agent can give you context, especially if the house has been sitting on the market for a while. Maybe the home was under contract but the buyer's financing fell through, or the seller overshot the listing price and had to make a price reduction? Knowing the backstory can only help you. Has the price changed? You can see if there's been a price reduction online, but talking to the listing agent is the only way to find out why the seller dropped the price. Are there any issues? Have there been any renovations or recent repairs made to the home? Some upgrades, like new kitchen appliances, are easy to spot, but some are harder to identify. Specifically ask about the roof, appliances, and HVAC system because they can be expensive to repair or replace. BTW, repairs like a leaky faucet, aren't things that need to be disclosed. What are the average utility costs? Many buyers don't factor utility bills into their monthly housing expenses, and these costs can add up -- particularly in drafty older homes. Ask the listing agent what a typical monthly utility bill is during the summer and during the winter, since heating and cooling costs can fluctuate seasonally. Be prepared for higher utility bills if you're moving from an apartment to a single-family home.

Now that you've got your answers, there's one last thing to do: Thank the host before you go. You never know -- you could be seeing them again at the negotiating table soon.

The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes. Before you make any major decisions using this information, we would love to hear from you and discuss your individual situation! Call us today at (616)439-1190

Countdown to a perfectly clean guest-ready home no matter how much -- or little -- time you have.

By: Anne Miller

Published: September 21, 2018

It feels great to have a clean, organized, well-functioning home when you've got guests coming. Especially around the holidays. It's like your gift to you.

Here's how to get that satisfying feeling -- no matter how much time you have. Just choose your starting point on this checklist:

Three (or More) Weeks to Go

Think big picture. Get anything that requires a pro or installation out of the way now. No one wants calamity to strike when guests are pulling into the driveway.

•Get your HVAC maintained if it's overdue.
•If you have a self-cleaning oven, clean it now. An oven is most likely to break down during the cleaning cycle, so don't save this task for last.
•Replace any appliance on its last legs. You don't want your hot water to go out or fridge on the fritz with a houseful of guests.
•Steam-clean upholstery. (Or hire a pro. It's a big job)
•Hire a handyman for those repairs you've been putting off.
•Check outdoor lighting. Replace old bulbs and call an electrician to address any bigger issues.

Two Weeks to Go

It's not panic time yet. Focus on decluttering and a few deep-cleaning tasks now, and you'll have a more manageable to-do list when the clock really starts ticking down.

•Do a deep declutter. It'll make things easier to keep clean.
•Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high-up shelves.
•Wipe down baseboards.
•Clean out and organize the fridge.
•Wash windows to make the entire house feel brighter and cleaner.
•Toss washable shower curtains and drapes in the washing machine and re-hang. Easy.

One Week to Go

It's strategic cleaning time. Here's what to tackle now -- things your family won't easily undo before your guests arrive.

•Declutter again.
•Vacuum and dust guest rooms. If they're low-traffic, the cleanliness should hold with just a quick wipe-down right before they arrive.
•Wipe down walls.
•Wipe down kitchen and dining room chairs and tables, including the legs. You'd be surprised how grimy they get.
•Deep clean the entryway -- and make room for your guests' stuff.

72 Hours to Go

The final cleaning stretch is on the horizon.

•Do another declutter.
•In the kitchen, toss stove burners, drip pans, and knobs into the dishwasher for an easy deep clean.
•Wash kitchen cabinet fronts.
•Scrub the kitchen floor.
•Clean and shine appliances.

48 Hours to Go

Now it's time to get serious.

•Clean and sanitize garbage cans to banish mystery smells.
•Wipe down doorknobs, faceplates, and light switches. They're germ magnets.
•Clean the front door.
•Deep clean the bathroom your guests will use, and close it off if possible.
•Wash guest towels and linens.

24 Hours to Go

Your guests' bags are packed. Time for final touches.

•Do a final declutter - by now it shouldn't take more than five minutes.
•Give one final wipe-down to toilets, tubs, and bathroom sinks.
•And another final wipe-down in the kitchen.
•Do all the floors: mop, vacuum, sweep, etc.
•Make guest beds and set out clean towels.
•Plug in nightlights in guest baths.
•Put out guest toiletries so they're easy to find.
•Add a coffee or tea station in the guest room or kitchen.
•Get your favorite smell going, whether it's a scented candle, spices in water on the stove, or essential oils.
•Use rubber gloves to wipe off pet hair and dust from furniture. It works.
•Do the full red carpet: Sweep or shovel porch, steps, and outdoor walkways.

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this. Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®Copyright 2019. All rights reserved.