MNA - Your Next Home - November 2023

FIND THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS...

FREE Nov. 2023

your Next Home W E S T

M I C H I G A N

Residential ■ Commercial ■ Rentals ■ Vacant Land ■ Waterfront ■ Farms SEE OUR DIRECTORY ON PAGE 4 FOR A FULL LIST OF REALTORS AND BUSINESSES. A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Benzie, Manistee & Mason Counties

231-887-4455 www.dwellingrealty.com

Lighthouse Realty 360 E. Parkdale Ave. Manistee Sales & Property Management

231-398-3800

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

www.goLighthouseRealty.com

231-299-1180

In This Issue REAL ESTATE AGENCIES & REALTORS..................................PAGE Dwelling Realty............................................................... 1 (Cover) Essential Real Estate........................................................ 1 (Cover) Lighthouse Realty........................................................... 1 (Cover) Century 21: Kari King..................................................................5 Century 21: Gina Pelton...............................................................5 Lighthouse Realty: Casey Tennant...............................................7 Essential Real Estate................................................................. 8-9 Real Estate One: Kathy Neveu....................................................11 MOM Board of Realtors.............................................................16 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Caliber Home Loans: Mindy Sedelmaier........................ 1 (Cover) Metro Mortgage...........................................................................7

2

HOME IMPROVEMENT/ DECOR COMPANIES......................PAGE Pamela’s Design.........................................................................13 Redeemed.................................................................................13 Carter Lumber............................................................................15 INSURANCE COMPANIES State Farm Insurance Agency: Mary Sturdevant........................11 MISCELLANEOUS Real Estate Transactions...............................................................3 Business Directory.......................................................................4 ADVICE FOR THE HOME Why it pays to work with a real estate agent................................6 3 modern kitchen features to consider......................................10 Organizational tips for bathrooms and laundry spaces.............12 Reap the rewards of a Florida room in your home.....................14 Your Next Home • November 2023

Manistee News Advocate

Recorded Sales for the Month of: September 2023 V/L THIRD ST

$3,000

6529 8 MILE RD

$165,000

V/L SEVENTH ST

$4,000

V/L JOHNSON RD

$167,499

V/L ROBBINS RD

$14,000

239 TENTH ST

$182,500

V/L SMITH RD

$19,900

7953 1ST ST

$185,000

V/L ORCHARD HIGHWAY

$28,000

8758 8 MILE RD

$187,000

908 RAMSDELL ST

$34,000

1883 PARK LN

$187,500

8996 GLOVERS LAKE RD

$36,000

3700 SEAMAN RD

$45,000

198 9TH ST

$190,000

V/L LEECREST BLVD

$45,000

1305 27TH ST

$191,000

17104 FIFTH ST

$55,000

17321 PSUTKA RD

$195,000

V/L JAMES ST

$58,000

FOX FARM RD

$199,000

V/L E FOX FARM RD

$60,000

216 SIXTH AVE

$199,900

V/L PETERS FARM RD

$60,000

V/L PORTAGE POINT

$225,000

14945 WOODS TRL

$67,500

V/L ELEVEN MILE RD

$232,000

18285 NORTHWOOD HIGHWAY

$68,500

V/L GREBE CT

$232,500

9488 JOUPPI RD

$70,000

15266 HEALY LAKE RD

$240,000

V/L NORTHWOOD HWY

$70,000

3374 MAPLEWOOD AVE

$245,000

74 CEDAR CREEK RD

$79,000

V/L MILARCH RD

$295,000

V/L NYRKKANEN RD

$79,900

746 WALL ST

$300,000

12580 BEAR CREEK LN

$83,000

566 MARZINSKI RD

$310,000

4156 DILLING RD

$86,000

1924 RAMONA DR

$315,000

16233 PLEASANTON HWY

$90,000

183 JOSLIN COVE DR UNIT 183

$339,000

V/L DILLING RD

$93,000

185 JOSLIN COVE DR

$349,000

310 RAMSDELL ST

$104,125

11272 CHIPPEWA HWY

$375,000

306 HANCOCK

$105,000

3803 HILLTOP RD

$390,000

V/L AIRPORT RD

$112,500

80 WASHINGTON ST #4

$417,000

7235 PINE CREEK RD

$115,000

712 HARBOR DR

$420,000

1243 SMITH ST

$120,000

8645 HORSESHOE CREEK

$460,000

8566 S PORTAGE POINT DR UNIT 1

$128,500

6704 LAKESHORE RD UNIT 9

$630,000

8566 S PORTAGE POINT DR UNIT 2

$128,500

3824 SMITH RD

$640,000

134 MCKEE ST

$139,000

17696 S RIDGEWOOD DR

$765,000

4047 LAKESHORE RD

$140,000

1361 US-31 SOUTH

November 2023 • Your Next Home

$2,250,000 3

Business Directory ■ Carter Lumber

231-757-9000 www.carterlumber.com

■ Caliber Home Loans:

Mindy Sedelmaier 231-233-0963

■ Century 21: Kari King

231-651-0923 www.C21Northland.com

■ Century 21: Gina Pelton

231.690.0852 gini@c21northland.com

■ Dwelling Realty

www.dwellingrealty.com

■ Essential Real Estate

231-299-1180 Therran Ferguson, Broker/Owner 231-510-1790 Michael Kruse 231-690-8882 Jenna Mahoney 231-942-9334 Chelsea Hild 231-510-3206 Sarah Mahoney 231-357-3001 Phil Landis 231-590-9341 Kevin Bishop 231-303-3595 Cassandra Ferguson 231-383-3580 Suzy Gorski 231-299-0620

4

■ Lighthouse Realty Manistee

231-398-3800 www.goLighthouseRealty.com Heather Barker 231-510-5505 Shirley Barker 903-681-6102 Cathy French 231-233-3268 Leah Gannon 517-607-5347 Jeremy “Ox” Glenn 812-929-9289 John Hanson 231-510-5543 BethAnn Kozicki 231-794-8960 Bill LaBelle 239-887-1037 Leanne LaBelle 239-887-0998 Kerri Mackey 231-510-8380 Emily Pomeroy 231-510-1303 Dale Smith 231-794-9122 Cheryl Staszczak 248-805-3802 Casey Tennant 231-233-7613

■ Metro Mortgage

231-425-5555 www.metromtg.com

■ Pamela’s Interior Design

231-723-8688 PamelasInteriors.net

■ Real Estate One: Kathy Neveu

231-342-0921

■ State Farm Insurance Agency

Mary Studevant 231-723-9905

Your Next Home • November 2023

SPO PONSO NSORED RED CO CONTENT

G ini Pe Pe lt on – Bui B uildin ldingg , Su Sup p or t in ingg , an and G row in ingg th t h e Ma Ma ni niss t e e Co C omm mmuni unitt y With just over 6,000 residents, Manistee is a community where everybody knows each other.

And with her involvement with local community organizations and real estate, it doesn’t take six degrees of separation for you to get to Gini Pelton. With 30+ years of supporting and promoting the beauty of the Manistee community, Pelton is your friendly neighbor who will make anyone excited to live in or visit Manistee.

Gini Pelton has been the #1 real estate agent in Manistee County for the past five years and an ambassador for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce—credentials boasting her love and expertise in Manistee. “I love that I can share the life I live here with other people,” states Pelton, whether she’s selling real estate properties to local families or giving her famous “10 cent tours” to visitors.

Immersing in the Manistee community through local organizations and events has always been a passion for Pelton. However, relocating from South Haven meant she was first an outsider whose love for Manistee would soon make her and her family beloved members

of the community.

So, how did an ambitious woman from Michigan Farm Country make it happen? Pelton’s work ethic was established early on in life by working their 400-acre family farmland as the oldest of 10 siblings. “If you didn’t learn how to work there, I don’t know when you’d ever learn how to work!” Her work ethic established an early foundation of success while still in South Haven, involved in everything from selling cars to owning a children’s store. However, an opportunity in 1992 for her husband to be a part of the opening staff for the newly built Oaks Prison introduced a new chapter for Pelton’s career, who uprooted her and her family’s lives to Manistee.

“Moving to a town where families have lived for generations was a bit hard. But that’s why you have to jump in and volunteer because that’s how you’re going to meet people. Don’t expect other people to get it done for you.” It didn’t take long for Pelton to become a familiar face in town thanks to her involvement with the Manistee Recreation Association coaching 18

Gini Pelton Northland

gini@c21northland.com 231.690.0852 For all your Real Estate needs #JustcallGini #ManisteethePlacetoBe

November 2023 • Your Next Home

seasons for a championship traveling soccer team and community projects such as co-chairing the building of Lighthouse Park. Decades later and her enthusiasm for volunteering continues, currently holding roles on the Manistee Housing Commission, a seat on the Board of Directors of the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, the board for the Munson Manistee Hospital Foundation, and member of Lakeside Club of Manistee County.

Pelton balanced her volunteer pursuits with building her career in Manistee. Her extensive real estate expertise comes from involvement in several aspects of the business. In 1993, Pelton started working for MSHDA as a Housing Agent for Lake, Manistee & Mason Counties. In 2004, she ran Reitz Park & Horizon Pointe. Then, in 2006, did Rental Management for West Shore Rental, leased & sold Property. Finally, in 2012, she became a full-time real estate agent for Century 21, where she’s been ever since.

As a real estate agent, she can relate firsthand to the many families relocating to the Manistee area. “I encourage families to volunteer and get involved.” And notes that Manistee is the perfect location to live or visit for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a better quality of life.

“What we have is a community surrounded by nature, so we have First Street Beach and Fifth Avenue Beach, the Manistee Riverwalk, hiking trails, and skiing within 30 minutes.” In addition, the historic downtown features landmarks like the Ramsdell Theater, the Vogue Theater, and buildings dating back to the early 19th century during the lumber baron era. “I’m lucky. I get to walk four blocks, and I’m at Lake Michigan. Within 10 minutes, I’m downtown with shops and restaurants.”

Pelton agrees that Manistee is a place worth experiencing to see if it’s the right fit. “It’s a quieter lifestyle, but it’s a quality lifestyle” To paint a better

picture, Pelton notes that the nearest Target is an hour away. Still, the Manistee community has everything you need without even leaving town—“we’ve got great stores, restaurants, bars Downtown Manistee and throughout the county. Downtown alone, we have a Kitchen, Beverage, Shoe, Clothing, Home, Gift, Antique, and Collectible stores, along with great places to eat and the two historic theaters. We’ve got it all!”

Between being a top real estate agent, volunteering in the community, and setting time aside for personal life, Pelton has found a healthy balance to give 100% in all her endeavors. “You have to mix fun, work, and volunteering,” she says. Her two children are already adults living in Detroit and New Hampshire, so she’s able to dedicate more time to her passion projects. Her daily agenda can include a line-up of meetings with her various community organizations and realtor duties.

Aside from work, family is a major pillar in Pelton’s life. Lucky to have her husband of 45 years, Scott, who is retired & maintains their home. Lucky to have her 95 year old mother living in Manistee while her brother maintains the family farm. Her children also keep her on the move, with her daughter Caitlin residing in Detroit with her three grandchildren; and her son Conor living in New Hampshire, with a her newest grandchild who she travels to visit. She also finds time to travel for her own pleasure. “Lucky to have traveled this year to Jamaica and Ireland,” although one of her favorite beaches is just a few blocks from home in Manistee.

Gini Pelton is an active member of the Manistee community who makes it her business to connect with local store owners, volunteering her time to support community organizations, and appreciating the beautiful nature surrounding it. Get in touch with Gini Pelton via phone or email to learn more about what makes Manistee special and how you, too, can get involved with the community!

5

Why it pays to work with a real estate agent E quity, pre-approval, contingencies, appraisal. These are terms associated with buying real estate, but even seasoned home buyers may not fully understand them.

Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, but in today’s economic climate, marked by inflation, high interest rates and high home prices across the country, it is more important than ever to understand the minutiae that is involved in buying and selling property. That’s just one of many reasons why buyers and sellers can benefit from the help of a seasoned real estate professional.

Types of real estate professionals Many people use the terms real estate agent, real estate broker and Realtor® interchangeably. While these professionals handle many similar tasks, there are some notable distinctions between them. A Realtor® is a registered term used to describe a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors®. These individuals must adhere to a strict code of ethics, and have access to market data and transaction management services unique to this specific trade organization. A real estate agent is licensed to help people buy and sell real estate, and is paid a commission when a deal is completed. A real estate broker does the same jobs as an agent,

6

but is also licensed to work independently and may employ his or her own agents. The broker also may get a percentage of the commission from agents in addition to his or her own commissions, according to Investopedia.

Buyer and seller A professional may represent either the buyer or seller or both. A buyer’s agent is negotiating for the buyer in the transaction, while a seller’s agent negotiates for the seller. Real estate professionals also can represent both parties, known as dual agency. Typically this does not occur in the same transaction, as that can create a conflict of interest. Commissions typically fall between 5 and 6 percent on real estate transactions, an amount that is split by all real estate professionals working on the transaction.

Why work with a real estate professional?

Homeowners may wonder why they should seek the services of a real estate agent, broker or Realtor®. That’s particularly so for sellers, as buyers typically do not pay a real estate representative any money.

• Expertise: Considering that buying and selling a home is one of the biggest

financial transactions one will make, it makes sense to leave it in the hands of experienced professionals.

• Price a home right: Real estate professionals will conduct a market analysis and look at “comps” in the area to determine a price that is fair and will help a house move.

When working with buyers, the agent or broker also will be able to help them come up with a reasonable offer price.

• Access to MLS: Agents and brokers have access to the Multiple Listing Service, which is widely used across the United States for listing available properties. It helps sellers sell faster and will enable buyers to view multiple properties all in one database.

• Negotiations: Leaving negotiations to a third party removes emotion from the transaction and can help everyone involved resolve issues and agree on acceptable terms.

Buying and selling real estate is a complex process. Real estate professionals can simplify the process and make it more enjoyable for buyers and sellers alike.

Your Next Home • November 2023

Your local purchase, refinance and new construction experts.

- Flexible Programs - Low Rates - Low Down Payment Options - Excellent Service - Conventional, Rural Development, VA, FHA, and MSHDA options available.

Local Experts • Exceptional Service Scan this code to download our mobile appand apply from the palm of your hand!

November 2023 • Your Next Home

MATT MEYER

Regional Vice President NMLS 1622182

KATER OVIEDO Loan Officer NMLS 1379144

231-425-5555 • lakeshore.team@metromtg.com 216 Ludington Ave, Ludington, MI 49431 NMLS 129386

7

2314 Revolt Rd • Manistee 3 beds 2 baths 1,421 SF

Sales & Property Management

231-299-1180

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

$375,000 #23029843

107 N Lakeshore Dr. • Manistee 2 beds, 1 bath, 890 SF

$449,000 #23013788

$4,750,000 #23030761

8

WOW!!! This gem offers rare Lake Michigan views and access UNDER 500K! This two bedroom beach house is situated on a lot large with a 2 car garage. Inside the home you will find original wood trim and finishings with plenty of space for your guests to enjoy. This home would make a lovely get away or short term rental right across the street from Manistee’s favorite 5th Ave beach. They are not making more properties like this one, schedule a tour of this Lake Michigan beach house today!

100 Acres Cherry Road • Manistee Once in a lifetime opportunity!!! 800 feet of private frontage on Lake Michigan!

Approximately 100 Acres located on some of the most spectacular Lake Michigan sandy beach in the entire State. One of the last large developable pieces of property available on Lake Michigan in the State. In the Manistee City limits just south of downtown, the river channel, public beaches, golf courses, hotels, schools, and all of the areas attractions. The secret is out about what Manistee Michigan has to offer and parcel is a perfect candidate to live and enjoy or for development in a City that is really taking off. All serious parties, please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.

$735,000 #21116571

$420,000 #23032695

Well maintained home in a highly desirable area of Manistee county.

This beautiful abundant in wildlife 19.34 acres of mature woods, is located on a dead end road.

Thoroughly insulated home with new windows, metal roof and much more, is move-in ready to be enjoyed for many years to come. Relax in peace and quiet, as you sit on the deck overlooking the pond or go curl up inside by the fire. Property has a creek that is actively running most of the year and a detached metal garage (22’x36’) as well. Don’t miss out, schedule your showing today!

5450 Carlson Rd • Manistee 7 beds, 3 baths, 3180 SF Opportunities like this, simply don’t happen every day! Sprawling 80 acre resort on Anderson Bayou of the Big Manistee River. Extremely well maintained 7 bedroom, 3 full bath home, with combined guest house separated by an attached garage, as well as a 24’ x 24’ bunkhouse style cabin right on the bayou! Over 5,000 sq. ft. of finished living space. Full finished basement 2021. Much of the main house has been remodeled. Outdoor wood-boiler adequate in size for even the large 32’ x 40’ Insulated Pole Barn. Attached boiler mate provides endless hot water. The home features hardwood flooring, many remodeling updates, main floor laundry, large eat-in kitchen, and beautiful scenic views. House and attached guest house each have woodstoves. Abundant wildlife, mature trees, amazing property!!

8916 Hodge Road • Kingsley 4 beds 2 baths 2,300 SF This beautiful farm house was built in 1880 and has been loved since day one. Sitting on 5+ acres and with enough space for all your homesteading needs. Beautifully redone kitchen, brand new interior lighting and appliances, paint top to bottom, flooring in the main living spaces, upgraded HVAC and electric, added a walk in closet to primary room, and a new drainfield are just the start of the upgrades made here in the last year.

The massive barn has received all new electrical wires and outlets, water, new and improved electric fences, and cattle gateway in the back of the barn. A detached two car garage, a huge chicken run, fruit trees, a basketball court, large deck (with hot tub) and a hand laid brick patio made with bricks from TC’s historic Eighth St complete this oasis.

Your Next Home • November 2023

$385,000 #23139332

1335 28th Street • Manistee 3 beds 2 baths 1,520 SF Brand New Home! This 1,520 sq. ft. ranch style home is located in desirable Filer Township. Home is built to current construction code. Heated 50’ X 24’ Barn with three stalls, workshop, possible half bath, and unfinished loft. Steel roof and siding make it a maintenance-free exterior. Custom tile work throughout and several luxury features including; ambiance lighting in the custom cabinetry and bathrooms. Home comes with all new appliances. Large main floor primary bedroom with huge walk-in closet and private full bathroom. Located in the neighborhood of Oak Hill, but tucked in on a wooded backdrop setting with 6 ft, privacy fence. Not far from Lake Michigan. On demand natural gas hot water. Immediate occupancy!!

$394,000 #23016271

10 Bridge Street • Manistee 3 beds, 1 bath 1586 SF

$179,000 #23032055

$235,000 #23028273

Just 1 block up from the Manistee River! 3 Bedroom Bungalow with a 2 stall garage and a nice back yard. New decks on the front and back. The exterior of the home appears to be in great shape! 2 Storage sheds. Main floor laundry.

Located in Manistee Township, not far from the Township Hall and Park, as well as shopping.

Schedule your tour today!

238 W Parkdale Ave. • Manistee 3 Units 3 Units! Great Commercial/Residential Opportunity! Excellent location and excellent condition! Located on the US-31 business corridor in Parkdale just north of Manistee. Large paved private parking lot. Washer & dryer in upstairs apartment.

Separate utilities. Currently the upstairs 2 bedroom apt is rented for $950/month plus utilities. Back main floor apt is rented for $575/month plus utilities. Utilize or lease the 1,000 sq. ft. commercial office space office that could potentially rent for around $900/ month. New roof in 2016. Handicap ramp to main offices.

Vinyl siding. Updated mechanicals. Air in offices and upstairs apartment. New 4’’ well in 2003. New Septic in 2020. High visibility in this Manistee location

November 2023 • Your Next Home

$465,000 #23029893

13544 Caberfae Hwy • Wellston 5192 SF This is a wonderful opportunity to own a campground and motel/cabin complex. Pine Creek Lodge has been family owned for __years. Licensed for 25 campsites, boarding the federal land and the areas favorite ORV and Snowmobile trails. The Resort has a motel which features a bunk house on the main (sleeps 6), main living space upstairs (3bed 1 bath), and another single sleeper unit (1 bed/bath). The main lodge has a shared laundry room for the resort guests, a large kitchen, 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. There are 5 cabins on property, most occupied by month to month tenants. Resort operates off 1 5 in well and has 5 septic tanks servicing the 7 buildings on property.

11855 Morton Road • Manistee 3 beds 3 baths 1,998 SF Built in 2007! Situated on a forest setting is this beautiful 1,998 sq. ft.

3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath ranch style home on 35.43 acres with abundant wildlife in desirable Grant Township, North Mason County. Not far from Lake Michigan,and located between Manistee & Ludington. Some of the features include; large primary bedroom, main floor laundry, hard surface countertops, tile floors in the entry, bathrooms, & kitchen, large 2 car attached garage, newer foundation system in the full basement with 9 ft. ceilings, and a large covered back porch with composite decking. Home is less than 17 years old and built to 2007 construction code.

4831 Meadowview Trail • Custer 2 beds 1 baths 1,000 SF

$205,000 #23029016

This cozy well kept Chalet comes furnished and is adjacent to Federal land. The two bedroom, one bath home with it’s bunkhouse garage is set up to sleep up to 16 people. The home has been meticulously cared for and has been used primarily as second home.

Just imagine, the Manistee National Forest right out your window. This Quality constructed home in the heart of Whiskey Creek, Unit 167 within the Whiskey Creek Condo Association. Dues are $285 per year per lot.

As owner you become part owner of over 130 acres of common element land including 30+ acres of fresh spring water for swimming and fishing, along with miles and miles of trails for your favorite means of transportation. A nice Condo building, campground bath house, recreation committees, this place has it all!

9

3 I

modern kitchen features to consider

t’s well documented that kitchens are the most popular rooms in many homes. Kitchens are where families tend to congregate during holiday celebrations, and many a child has tackled their homework as mom or dad prepares dinner just a few steps away.

like socializing around kitchen islands. Islands provide a versatile functionality that comes in handy when preparing meals on typical weeknights and when hosting friends and family on special occasions like the holidays and birthdays. Islands come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be customized to fit just about any space. Mobile With so much time spent in the kitchen, it’s no islands can be utilized in small kitchens when wonder kitchen renovations are popular. In fact, homeowners want the extra prep space but think data from the National Association of Home Build- the kitchen would be too cramped if a permanent ers indicates kitchens are the most popular room to island were added. remodel. Whether homeowners are planning a full scale remodel or a few tweaks to update the room, 2. Deep sink the following are three popular features of modern The popularity of farmhouse style sinks is proof that large and deep sinks are sought-after among kitchens. today’s homeowners. Farmhouse sinks may be best 1. Kitchen island suited to a particular aesthetic, but a 2021 study A recent survey from the interior design experts from the National Association of Home Builders at Houzz found that kitchen islands are popular found that side-by-side double sinks and walk-in for a variety of reasons. Fifty-eight percent of pantries were the most popular of 30 listed kitchen respondents indicated they enjoy eating at kitchen features. That study surveyed more than 3,200 islands, while 49 percent reported they like islands recent and prospective home buyers. Deep sinks for entertaining. Forty-five percent of respondents are especially useful for people who love to cook,

10

making them a solid addition to any kitchen where home chefs ply their trade most nights of the week.

3. Storage As the NAHB study indicated, kitchen storage space is sought after among modern homeowners. As home cooks expand their culinary horizons and cook more elaborate meals, they need extra places to store specialty pots and pans, ingredients and other materials. Homeowners looking to add more storage in the kitchen can consult with a local contractor about how to create such space. A walkin pantry can do the trick, but homeowners with kitchens where space is more limited may need to get a little more creative. Sliding-door pantries and roll-out shelving in existing cabinets can add functional space in kitchens with close quarters.

Modern kitchens are visual marvels and highly functional spaces. A new island, a deep sink and some extra storage space can help homeowners transform their existing kitchens into spaces that cater to their every need.

Your Next Home • November 2023

Give your home the protection it deserves.

Your home is where you make some of your best memories, and that’s worth protecting.

Mary Sturdevant Ins Agcy Inc Mary Sturdevant, Agent

I’m here to help.

LETS TALK TODAY.

306 Parkdale Ave Manistee, MI 49660 Bus: 231-723-9905

NOVEMBER is the month of GRATITUDE! I’m grateful for serving clients in Benzie County for 20 years!

And referrals, I really like referrals!

ASSOCIATE ASSOCIATE BROKER BROKER

KATHYNEVEU.COM 231-342-0921 | Kathy KathyNeveu.com 231-342-0921 Kathy@ KathyNeveu.com 57 57 N. N. Michigan Michigan Ave. Ave. •• Beulah, Beulah, MI MI 49617 49617

November 2023 • Your Next Home

11

Organizational tips for bathrooms and laundry spaces N

o two homes are exactly alike. While homes typically feature certain common amenities, even in planned communities homeowners do their best to set their homes apart from others in the development.

Certain areas of a home may initially garner less attention than others. This often is the case with small washrooms, sometimes called powder rooms or guest bathrooms, as well as laundry areas. Despite their utilitarian nature, bathrooms and laundry rooms can often benefit from some better organization. The following are some ways to maximize storage and function in these spaces.

Bathroom Apart from a vanity and possibly a medicine cabinet, many bathroom layouts tend to be pretty sparse in terms of storage. So it is up to homeowners to introduce more storage and organizational function.

home. Use them to store extra towels or display decorative items.

in other rooms in the home. Perfecting laundry room organization can take some effort.

• Streamlined containers: Invest in coordinating storage containers (clear are preferable) so that all items can be uniformly put away. First sort through all items to determine which size containers are necessary and how many are required.

• Folding station: A laundry room is more useful with a folding station. It can be a separate counter over cabinetry, or innovative homeowners build a counter over front-loading washing machines and dryers.

• Conceal toilet paper: Homeowners want to have bath tissue on hand, but simply placing it near the toilet can look cluttered or unsightly. Use decorative baskets to house one or two extra rolls and place on shelving or on the toilet tank itself.

• Utilize wall space: Use hooks and shelving to get items off the floor or counters.

Use them to hold brooms, mops, ironing boards, detergent, and much more.

• Freestanding cabinet: Those lucky enough to have linen closets in their bathrooms can keep everything behind closed doors.

In small bathrooms this may not be possible. However, a freestanding cabinet, similar to a kitchen pantry cabinet, can be used if there is space for it. Store all of the linens and other items inside.

• Invest in a pedestal storage drawer: Laundry pedestal storage drawers can be used to keep dryer sheets, laundry pods and additional supplies out of view.

• Use space-saving cabinetry: Pull out drawers and cabinets can be used to hold hampers, ironing boards, and other frequently used items without cluttering up the room.

• Over-toilet shelving: Freestanding units are available from many different retailers, Organizing bathrooms and wash rooms can but they may lack aesthetic appeal. Home- Laundry give these spaces a cleaner, more impressive owners can install open shelves above the Laundry rooms can be very organized or a toilet that coordinate with the style of the catch-all space for objects that simply do not fit look.

12

Your Next Home • November 2023

Gift Certificates Available

Over 50 Vendors! Stop In Today!

231-887-4222

172 Memorial Dr. • Manistee (Next to Family Dollar)

For Kitchens and Bath Cabinets, Countertops, Installation and Design Come See 433 River Street, Manistee, MI (Open by Appointment - Call today) residential commercial

Pamela Schindlbeck interior/kitchen/bath designer

November 2023 • Your Next Home

PamelasInteriors.net

231-723-8688 13

Reap the rewards of a Florida room in your home

W

hen the sun is shining and the weather is warm, who doesn’t want to be outside enjoying all Mother Nature has to offer? The great outdoors often beckons, but it also has bugs. Insects, particularly nuisance bugs like mosquitoes or biting flies, are unwanted visitors when enjoying the great outdoors.

Weather also can put a damper on outdoor plans. It’s challenging to get fresh air and enjoy the yard when it’s raining or conditions are especially humid. Instead of limiting time spent outdoors to those occasions when conditions are favorable, homeowners can install Florida rooms to maximize their outdoor living potential.

The term “Florida room” calls to mind different things. Some define it as a walled extension of a home that features a roof — such as a covered patio, or lanai. According to Tripod Aluminum, Inc., a manufacturer of aluminum building products, a Florida room also may

14

be a screened-in enclosure that surrounds a pool area and is designed to keep bugs and wildlife out of the water. People also may consider a Florida room a sunroom, and it may be screened or feature actual windows that can be opened, according to the resource from Farmhouse to Florida.

Those thinking about renovating to include Florida rooms can consider the following details.

• You don’t need to live in Florida. Florida rooms may be most associated with the Sunshine State, but you don’t need to live there to have one. Consider your climate and build a Florida room that will meet your needs. Do you want to enjoy the space year-round? If so, you might need some sort of heating or cooling to keep things comfortable.

• Decide on the right location. While Florida rooms traditionally are in the backyard, select a spot that works for you. If you

want to maximize morning sunrises, for example, locate the room on the side of the home that faces east. If a view from another side of the house is particularly striking, place the Florida room there.

• Determine your needs. Will you be cooking or entertaining in the Florida room?

If so, design a space that will feature cooking and eating areas. Ensure plenty of ventilation for a grill, and consider other appliances to reduce the need to make trips into the house. Although the Florida room creates some measure of weather protection, choose furniture and fixtures that can stand up to outdoor conditions.

• Add privacy as needed. Curtains, greenery, shades, and other details can create privacy when you don’t want to be visible to neighbors.

Florida rooms add useful space to a home and can help residents connect with nature even when conditions outside are less inviting.

Your Next Home • November 2023

At Carter Lumber in Ludington, we make the transition into a new home as painless as possible. We have years of experience helping new residents turn their new homes into the permanent home of their dreams.

From kitchen and bath designs to decking, we make the remodeling and building process easy. We’ve been rooted in the community for decades and are proud to welcome you to our beautiful lakeside community.

For more information on how we can help you, visit us in-store or online.

Welcome to the neighborhood!

November 2023 • Your Next Home

15

16

Your Next Home • November 2023