Explore All that Ada, Michigan Has to Offer

September 9, 2024

Welcome to Ada! Ada, Michigan, is known for its charm and friendly community. Located 15 minutes east of Downtown Grand Rapids, nestled along the Thornapple and Grand Rivers, Ada has elements of historic charm and a thriving business district that is continuing to grow and evolve. From the shops and restaurants in Ada Village, to […]

Everything You Need to Know About USDA Home Loans

September 5, 2024

The USDA Home Loan Program (also known as Rural Development Loans) has long been associated with helping people buy homes in rural areas, but its reach actually extends far beyond where the deer and the antelope roam. While it’s true that this program is a fantastic option for those seeking a home in the rural […]

The Real Cost of Owning a Home in Michigan

September 4, 2024

If you are a first-time homebuyer, it’s important to fully understand what home ownership will actually cost you beyond that selling price you settled on. Because let’s be real — there are a lot of other expenses that comprise the cost of owning your own home.   The Monthly Costs of Owning a Home Buying […]

Gen Z Home Buyers: Making Their Mark in West Michigan’s Housing Market

August 27, 2024

As home prices continue to increase, the trend that we often see, as well as the trend that most people expect to see, is the increase in the ages of those people buying homes. Although on average the age of home buyers nationwide is on the rise as affordability continues to challenge many — there […]

A Guide to Extra Payments: Financial Benefits of Paying More on Your Mortgage

August 27, 2024

Making mortgage payments can start to feel like you’re trying to climb a mountain without the appropriate gear — that is, you’ll start feeling like reaching the top (or paying your loan off) is impossibly out of reach. There are some ways to chip away at the climb slowly, though. Making extra mortgage payments can […]

Self-Employed and Seeking a Mortgage? Here’s What You Need to Know

August 23, 2024

Self-employed individuals and small business owners don’t have to be bogged down by the tedium of punching a clock, reporting to a boss, or adhering to a strict 30-minute lunch break. Instead, they enjoy unlimited income potential, certain tax benefits, and the value of owning something that is their own. In true “every rose has […]

A Comprehensive Guide to Home Possible for Michigan Homebuyers

August 21, 2024

In a real estate market where homeownership can sometimes feel impossible, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible program makes buying a home possible (see what they did there?). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of the Home Possible loan program, exploring its benefits and eligibility criteria to help you make an informed decision about […]

6 Steps to Financial Freedom as a Student: Building Wealth Before Graduation

August 15, 2024

Being a college student comes with a lot of demands—balancing school, work, and the ever-present pressure of financial uncertainty. The purpose of you getting a college education is to set yourself up for a successful financial future, but you don’t have to wait to get started! With the right resources and guidance, you can start […]

Second Home Loan for Vacation Homes in Michigan

August 14, 2024

What Are the Benefits of Buying a Vacation Home? Cottage, cabin, beach house, family home, ranch, casita, or chalet— all are options for your home away from home! Vacation homes are a dream come true for many, but often require an extra investment of time and money. The investment may be greater, but the results […]

Seller’s Guide: Navigating the Traverse City Real Estate Market in 2024

August 1, 2024

For Michiganders and outlanders alike, the call of Traverse City is like the siren song of Lake Michigan. The promise of lakeside locales, trendy restaurants, thriving downtown businesses, and — of course — plenty of beautiful Traverse City homes for sale is enough to draw new people in consistently. Traverse City’s population is growing 0.06% […]