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JULY 2021 Dan Bollman, Associate Broker
231-629-2680
Over 30 Years Experience dan@century21whitehouse.com
www.Century21WhiteHouse.com
Thinking of selling your home or cottage?
Wondering what that home or cottage might be worth? Please call me for a free market evaluation...you might be surprised at your value...in today’s high demand market!
FEaTURED LISTING
Main Canadian Lakes Lakefront 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths
$439,000
I NEED YOUR LISTING! Please Call Me!
NDING PEWaterfront Martiny Lakes
$169,900 RESIDENTIAL
Little Muskegon Riverfront Lot Canadian Lakes
Waterfront Lot Main Canadian Lakes
$24,900
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$29,900
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Lake Laura Lot Canadian Lakes
$35,900
VACA N T L A N D
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Lake access Lot Canadian Lakes
$1,950
WAT E R F R O N T
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A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE PIONEER GROUP ALSO ONLINE AT HOMEFINDERGUIDE.COM
Call Today (231) 972-7129
Email us at: doylerealtyinfo@gmail.com
Demand is stronger than ever right now for properties just like yours here in the Tri-Lakes and surrounding area.
Kevin Doyle, Realtor/Brocker/Owner, Cindi Voss, Realtor/Associate Broker and David Vincent, Realtor/Licensed Drone Operator are all high caliber professionals with extensive experience and knowledge about our local real estate market. When you’re ready, please give us a call for complimentary, no opbligation market analysis of your property. Plus learn all about our personalized marketing strategy that gets your property in front of the maximum number of qualified buyers.
Kevin Doyle Realtor• Broker • Owner
231-679-5610 Doylerealtyinfo@gmail
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Cindi Voss
David Vincent
Realtor • Associate Broker
Realtor • Licensed Drown Operator
Doylerealtyinfo@gmail
David.doylerealtyinfo@gmail
231-679-5611
231-498-3535
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
$120,000 • #20047015 Great ranch style home with access to Horsehead Lake in Mecosta County. This home is move in ready with new flooring and a fresh look. Floor plan has a master suite with full-bath, two additional bedrooms with a second full bath. Tubs in both baths. Large kitchen and living areas. Separate laundry/mudroom. Two sheds with one large enough for a small boat. Big yard with views of the lake from the front deck. Walking distance to the lake access area. Bring your boat and enjoy this lovely home on one of the areas nicest lakes!
$440,000 • #21022715
$440,000 • #21022946
NEW CONSTRUCTION! Proposed beautiful ranch style home with full basement. This to-be-built home offers three bedrooms, 2.5 baths and features open concept living. Great Room with fireplace. Master bedroom en-suite and double walk-in closets. Open kitchen with granite surfaces. Separate office could be additional bedroom. Full basement. Large covered porch at entry and an extra large sundeck with options to enclose and/or add an outdoor fireplace for outdoor living and entertaining. Two car garage. Setting near the Royal North golf course at Canadian Lakes - just a short walk to the course. All Canadian Lakes amenities included - golf, pools, beaches and more.
SOLD SOLD
$425,000 • #21005071
Waterfront home on the Main Chain of Canadian Lakes! Located on a private cul de sac road is this charming 3 BR, 2 BA ranch style home. Featuring 2954 finished sq ft, this home is ideal for vacation, retirement or yr. around living. Property offers a brick front, new furnace in 2020, hardwood floors, paved driveway, composite decking, and a master bedroom and bath. The home has been very well maintained and is move in ready. Located on East Canadian Lake you will have access to all sports recreation, fishing, beaching, and much more.
$24,900 • # 19051989 Lot 14 Fox Glove Circle, 14, Big Rapids - Premier Building or River Front Building Sites, beautiful property that is waiting for you.
$460,000 • #20039732
Well appointed home offers three bedrooms, two full baths, a large sunroom, lower level living, deck and patio - and that’s just a start. There are many extras that go with this home. Boathouse at the water for storage, play house in the yard, whole house generator, air compressor, built-in wench for pulling shore stations, underground sprinklers and more. Hardwood floors, ceramic tile floors, granite bath, solid surface kitchen with custom cabinets. Beautiful gas fireplace in living area. Large flat screen television. Master suite with large walk-in closet/laundry. Come see it! Lower level storage, new roof, furnaces, hot water heater, smoke detectors. Attic space and partial crawl space. Large gun safe stays with home. Loading bench stays with home. Roof in 2013 with 40 year shingles. Chippewa Lake sewer system.
$425,000 • # 21000213
$24,500 • #21020804 Great location to build your new home. This established subdivision has everything you are looking for - favorable taxes, no city taxes, no HOA fees. Located in a nice partially wooded area along the Muskegon River with paved public roads and natural gas. Close to downtown Big Rapids a quaint historic area with dining, shopping and more. Developer is offering incentives for building - call for more information.
$450,000 • # 21011735
Developers look here! Prime 57 Acres with over 800’ of waterfront on the Muskegon River. City water and sewer. Located next to the Bluffs - a Single Family Residential Development. This would also be suitable for farming or hunting. Riverfront with partial wooded land. About 70% tillable. Located just south of downtown Big Rapids and near Ferris State University for easy access to shopping, dining and health care. This is a great opportunity! Call today for more details.
8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
NEW CONSTRUCTION! Proposed beautiful ranch style home with full basement. This to-be-built home offers three bedrooms, 2.5 baths and features open concept living. Great Room with fireplace. Master bedroom en-suite and double walk-in closets. Open kitchen with granite surfaces. Separate office could be additional bedroom. Full basement. Large covered porch at entry and an extra large sundeck with options to enclose and/or add an outdoor fireplace for outdoor living and entertaining. Two car garage. Setting near the main shopping district in Canadian Lakes. All Canadian Lakes amenities included - golf, pools, beaches and more.
Great location for this 33+ acre farm. Large home with extra large 3 car garage and pole barn. Partially sitting on the Chippewa River with a wooded area and tillable land. Perfect for growers! The home has 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Large living room with beautiful window views, dining and kitchen with sunroom and enclosed porch. Hardwood floors, mudroom, Michigan partial basement and additional crawl space. Garage is 30 x 40 and the Barn is 30 x 40. Lots of opportunity in this home located just outside city limits.
KATHY ADAMS
Associate Broker
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
231• 250 • 3197
kadamscblakes@gmail.com 3
BUSINESS CARD & PROFESSIONALS
Directory
Your Lakefront expert!
8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com
616-490-4630 1100 4 Mile Rd NW, Ste D Grand Rapids, MI 49544
KATHY ADAMS
231• 250• 3197
Dan Bollman, Associate Broker
231-629-2680
Over 30 Years Experience dan@century21whitehouse.com www.Century21WhiteHouse.com
kadamscblakes@gmail.com
Cash buyer seeking clean, smoke-free manufactured home, one acre or more, barn or garage.
Call Me Today!
Real Estate
Pam Schwallier Realtor®
queen100@iserv.net
1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI Office: 231-796-4805 Broker/Owner 231-250-8882 www.rivertownrealestate.org
Lori Brock
“Helping Buyers & Sellers for over 50 years”
SILVERNAIL REALTY
Call Today!
17810 205th Ave., Suite #1 Big Rapids, MI 49307
231-796-6329 www.silvernailrealty.com Property Management Land Contracts
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8520 100th Ave. , Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 Katy VanCuren
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
729 W. River Hills Ct. • Newaygo $309,900
616-490-4630 1100 4 Mile Rd NW, Ste D Grand Rapids, MI 49544 Cash buyer seeking clean, smoke-free manufactured home, one acre or more, barn or garage.
Call Me Today!
Pam Schwallier, Realtor® queen100@iserv.net
10255 S. Osborn Avenue • Fremont 21020824 • $149,900
109 E. Edelweiss 17, Fremont 19057765 • $14,900
Nearly new, sharp decor, 5 bed, 3 bath ranch on large, landscaped lot. 3 beds, 2 baths on main, including owner’s suite. Large kitchen w/granite island, formal dining & living room w/slider to deck. Mud room w/ laundry off garage. 2 bedrooms, bath, family room, & 2 large storage areas in lower walkout. 2-stall garage, fire pit, new shed & fence.
Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath home on 1.2 country acres. Living room, eat-in country kitchen with lots of cabinets and counter space, and a convenient main floor mud room/laundry. The owner’s suite has its own bath, and the remaining two bedrooms share a bath. There’s an oversized 2-stall attached garage with loft storage, a 32x40 pole barn with hoist beam and overhead storage, plus two 8x10 storage sheds to keep your autos, toys, workshop and lawn equipment under cover. It is conveniently located between Fremont and Newaygo, mere minutes from Bridgeton and the Muskegon River.
At the end of a cul de sac, this lot is perfect for a walk-out with serene views of fields and wetlands. Quiet private paved streets, natural gas, public water and sewer available. Gatehouse and pickleball courts on site. Moderate maintenance fees include mowing and trimming, snow removal and some exterior maintenance. Very close to Water’s Edge Golf Course, and just at the edge of Fremont. Pets allowed with permission.
6 Lots E Vienna, Meister, Edelweiss 8,17,24,25,26,27 • Fremont 19057779 • $99,900
405-408 E Vienna Lane 24,25,26,27 • Fremont 19057777 • $69,900
302 Meister Road 8 • Fremont 19057767 • $14,900
SPRING PRICE BREAK!!! Opportunity for a builder or developer to create common wall and site condos in Garten Haus Estates. Purchase includes 6 Units: MLS# 19057763, 19057765, 19057767, 19057772, 19057774 & 19057776. If duplex or multiple units are built, HOA applies for each unit. Sliding scale HOA Fees $50 for vacant lots, $125 for exterior low-maintenance homes, more for higher maintenance homes. Lots may also be purchased separately.
“Helping Buyers & Sellers for over 50 years”
SILVERNAIL REALTY 17810 205th Ave., Suite #1 - Big Rapids, MI 49307
Lots are suited for common wall townhouses or condos, or combine lots for site condo. Quiet private paved streets, natural gas, public water and sewer available. Gatehouse and pickleball courts on site. Moderate maintenance fees include mowing and trimming, snow removal and some exterior maintenance. Backs up to Water’s Edge Golf Course, and is just at the edge of Fremont. Pets allowed with permission. Purchase includes 62-13-36-450-024, 025, 026 & 027.If duplex or multiple units are built, HOA applies for each unit. Sliding scale HOA Fees $50 for vacant lots, $125 for exterior low-maintenance homes, more for higher maintenance homes. Tap fees waived with full price offer.
Lot suited for site condo. Quiet private paved streets, natural gas, public water and sewer available. Gatehouse and pickleball courts on site. Moderate maintenance fees include mowing and trimming, snow removal and some exterior maintenance. Very close to Water’s Edge Golf Course, and just at the edge of Fremont. Pets allowed with permission. $2000 tap fee to be paid to developer at close. If duplex or multiple units are built, HOA applies for each unit. Sliding scale HOA Fees $50 for vacant lots, $125 for exterior low-maintenance homes, more for higher maintenance homes. Tap fees will be waived with a full price offer.
Call Today!
231-796-6329
Sue Glatz
www.silvernailrealty.com Katy VanCuren, GRI, CRB, ABR, Broker/Owner Sue Glatz, Associate Broker • Terry Weaver, Salesperson Katy Property Management • Land Contracts VanCuren
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Nothing on the market that fits your families needs? Why not BUILD your next home.
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• Conveniently close to Big Rapids • Minutes from Expressway • No H.O.A. Fees! • Underground utilities Site Condo gas, electric, sewer, water, Charter Cable • Very Affordable Lots • Wooded lots with acreage available • Stunning Views • Enter off of Madison or Sheridan (behind fairgrounds) SOLD
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View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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Helpful Homeowner Tips UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN Adding value to your home doesn’t mean you have to put a lot of money into it. Doing some little things such as updating a faucet or cabinet hardware can make a large impact, especially when you’re indoors more during the winter months. NEW CABINET HARDWARE: It’s faster than cabinet re-facing and can drastically change the look of your cabinets without spending a large amount of money. There are many different options available to find the right look for your kitchen. INSTALL A NEW BACKSPLASH: Most kitchens require only a few boxes of tile to create a backsplash and give the room a new, more dramatic look. A tile backsplash doesn’t require taking down cabinets or redoing countertops which makes it an easy and inexpensive kitchen update. ADD A COAT OF PAINT: Painting walls will give you a great do-it-yourself project and add to your home’s appeal. Color options create an instantaneous new look for any room in your house. UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING: Distinctive lighting fixtures are an easy and fun way to put a little accent in your kitchen. Under cabinet lighting, track light systems and pendant lights are a great way to add personality to your kitchen, pleasant accent light, illuminate task areas, spotlight an island or special cabinet. UPDATE YOUR FAUCET: This is one of the easiest ways to update your kitchen without spending a lot of time or money. There are several styles and finishes to choose from that range in price to fit anyone’s budget. NEW APPLIANCES: Though a more expensive update, consider an investment in new appliances that will provide great benefit in the long run. The kitchen’s primary function is for preparing and cooking meals, so the room is only as good as its appliances. A variety of styles and models will not only help fulfill your basic needs, but also provide a look and feel to make your kitchen look impressive. These are just a few examples of small things you can do to enhance the look of your home whether you plan to put it on the market or not. 6
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
The Strength of Teamwork.
Lori Brock Broker/Owner
231-250-8882
1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI JUST LISTED!
Yvonne Meyer Realtor
231-468-8068
Bridget Lamoreaux Realtor
616-214-1007
231-796-4805 •
$700,000 • Chase #21023970
COUNTRY CHARMER
$149,900 • Reed City #21021238
IMPECCABLE HOME
$199,900 • Evart #21019859
EqUESTRIAN FARM
Allitta Hren Realtor
231-250-8192
Affordable living Country Charmer 2 BR, 1 BA home is surrounded in a rainbow of flowers, Sit in your 3 seasons room and enjoy the view or spend all your time in the adorable she shed. Newer windows, newer well, newly insulated metal roof. Home is perfect for the beginning family and could easily be used by the empty nesters ready to downsize. Home is warrantied for that extra piece of mind.
$199,900 • Evart #21021690
One of a kind vintage home features all the style and characteristics of a time gone by with all the modern conveniences. Exquisite Victorian Home with no expense spared in the restoration features 4 BR, 2 BA, beautiful hardwood floors, central air, large formal dining, main floor master suite, beveled glass windows, French doors, bay window, 3 seasons porch, 2 car detached garage, covered deck and the grand rounded porch makes the perfect spot to unwind.
$899,000 • White Cloud #21014165
Turn of the century home...home has been lovingly restored and boosts all the charm and character of years gone by, but with all the news that you desire windows, roof, furnace, electrical, cosmetic updates and siding. Incredible place to raise your family!! 5 BR, 3 1/2 BA, tons of storage, 2 stairways, 3 car garage, beautiful woodwork ,hardwood floors, sitting room, parlor, huge living room, formal dining and a beautifully landscaped yard. This home was once a duplex so it is metered separately so it could be a duplex again easily. Walking distance to town and schools.
51 ACRES
$179,000 LeRoy #21011979
231-527-5769
$59,900 • Stanwood #21021259
This 1,816 square foot home was built on a lot size of 2.0700 Acre(s). Dreaming of your own Hobby Farm? Adorable farmhouse features 4 BR, possible fifth with large loft that could be made into an additional bedroom, outbuildings for all your needs. Pole barn offers set up for cattle, & box stall for horses, cement floor, electricity and water, fenced in paddocks and hay storage. 2 beautiful acres to view from your large deck . Just bring the animals and family get ready to enjoy the peace and serenity of Country life.
MOTHER-IN-LAW APARTMENT
231-287-0410
Hailey Brock Realtor
www.RivertownRealEstate.org
Hunters Custom Dream Home!! 96 Wildlife filled acres!! Once in a lifetime opportunity to own your own executive hunt camp or year round home the possibilities are endless. 3 BR 2 BA, almost new home, features a huge master bedroom suite, open concept floor plan, large kitchen with island and tons of counter space, a large mud room/main floor laundry. Expansive outdoor living space with 2 large decks-both with incredible views perfect for unwinding and or entertaining. 24x12 storage shed is perfect for all the toys and gear you will be using on your privately owned fish stocked pond.
HOBBY FARM
Jennifer Verdi-Stieg Realtor
68 ACRES
$325,900 LeRoy #21011980
Equestrian Living Oasis! Turn-Key 40 acre property! Upon entering the 3 BR, 2 BA home you will immediately be embraced by the coziness of this home. Huge updated kitchen, large master bedroom suite, spacious living room w/ real wood fireplace to cozy up to on those winter nights, enormous walk-out deck is perfect to relax and entertain. The equestrian facility checks all the boxes including: 15 box stalls, heated BA, 120’ x 60’ dust controlled indoor riding arena, tack room, office, heated lounge, wash rack. Be amazed by the 150’x220’ dressage arena, 8 separate paddocks w/shelters, brand new 3 car 30’x56’ garage with loft and professional round pen training arena and the entire property is fenced for safety.
LANd CONTACT TERMS
$29,900 Paris #21023231
Hunters! Hunters! Hunters! Look no further!!! 54 Acres of Prime hunting land with a hunting cabin that has already had some remodeling done. Bring your own beverage, ammo and buddies and make some memories! Priced to sell at $179,900, also includes a fixer upper trailer for the buddies you don’t like!
Turn of the Century Farmhouse! Picturesque property, 4 bedrooms, original hardwood flooring, pocket doors, French doors, incredible woodwork and trim, Victorian style leaded glass windows, wrap around deck/parlor with all the charm of years gone by. Property boasts 69 acres with many outbuildings including pole barns, hip roof barns, chicken barns and beautiful rolling pastures. This could be your dream farm with a little hard work you will have a show piece property.
Land Contract Terms!!!! Stunning 1.5 acre building site close to Big Rapids, Hilltop location, Country Living! Buy this little piece of paradise now and build your dream home when the price is right. Hurry Will NOT Last Long! Listed at $15,900 for cash offers and $22,900 for Land Contract Terms
28 ACRES
79 ACRES
160 ACRES
$119,900 Reed City #21010658 Have you been looking for the perfect place to build, hunt, or get-a-way to? Well look no further! This property and location offer something for anyone looking to build or hunt. Wooded 28.5 Acre parcel is located conveniently close to US131 in Ashton. Call me today to make this property yours!!
$319,000 Stanwood #21016292 79.5 Wooded acres on the corner of Buchanan & 150th Avenue. Right next to it is 160 Acres parcel also for sale. Buy one or Both, limited acreage for sale in Stanwood Area. This won’t last long.
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
$639,000 Stanwood #21016291 160 Wooded acres on a Paved Road. Right next to it is 79.5 Acres parcel on a corner lot. also for sale. Buy one or Both, limited acreage for sale in Stanwood Area. This won’t last long.
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Helpful Homeowner Tips THE GREEN, GREEN GRASS OF HOME
With the outdoor season upon us, there are a few simple ways to help your lawn stay lush and green and become the pride and joy of your neighborhood. You can start by giving your lawn a good raking to create a de-thatching effect and “wake up” the lawn for the season. Cutting Regular cutting of the lawn is important because it thickens the grass. Cutting it little and often is better than all in one go. Switch directions and patterns so the grass blades aren’t pressed in the same direction each time. In the middle of summer, you might want to keep the grass a little longer so it withstands periods of drought. Fertilizing Cutting the grass removes nutrients that need to be replaced to achieve healthy growth. From the beginning of spring, you should fertilize the lawn every four or five weeks. Nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous are important ingredients for a healthy lawn. Application amounts and instructions are available on most fertilizer packaging. Watering If you want a lawn that is lush and green all summer, watering is important. How often you need to water your lawn depends on temperature and humidity. When a lawn needs water, the grass will begin to take on a blue-gray tint, and the older grass blades will begin to curl up and wilt. New lawns should be watered once a day so seeds can germinate and a solid root system can form. You can water your lawn by hand or select from a variety of sprinkler options or automated irrigation systems.
With persistence, you can win the battle against weeds using the right tools, herbicides or weed-n-feed products. Also, the grass roots need air in order to grow, therefore it is important to occasionally aerate your lawn to clear away dead roots and thatch to create more breathing space for the lower parts of the grass plus help stems grow better. 8
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
License #59-12
SEPTIC TANK CLEANING LLC
“FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1979”
LICENSED & INSURED
Home Septic Inspections • Competitive Rates Commercial-Residential • Septic Tanks Vacuum Cleaned Portable Toilet Rentals For Any Occasion
Serving Kent, Montcalm, Newaygo and Surrounding Areas
616-951-7171
Premium Diesel Fuel Highway & Off Road • Heating Fuel • Gasoline • Kerosene • Propane
We have REC Gas & K-1 Kerosene Pick Up or Delivery 24 Hour EmErgEncy SErvicE AvAilAblE!
MICHAEL
OIL & PROPANE
18655 Northland Dr., Old U.S. 131, Big Rapids, MI
231-796-8681
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1948
www.michaeloilandpropane.com Online Payment Options Available!
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Helpful Homeowner Tips ENERGY EFFICIENCY There are many ways to reduce a household’s energy use from simple adjustments in behavior to comprehensive home improvements. The main reasons to conserve energy are to save on utility bills and protect the environment. Some of the more common ways to conserve energy are: Replace your light bulbs • Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume an excessive amount of electricity and need replacing more often than energy efficient bulbs. • Halogen incandescent bulbs, CFLs and LEDs use 25-80% less electricity and last 3-25 times longer than traditional bulbs. Install a programmable or smart thermostat • Automatically turn off or reduce heating and cooling during times when you’re away or sleeping. • Depending on the model, programmable thermostats can save you $180 per year. Install energy efficient windows • To prevent heat loss through your windows, replace single-pane windows with double-pane ones. • In warmer climates, heat gain through your windows may be a problem. • Window shades, shutters, screens and awnings can also provide an extra layer of insulation between your home and external temperatures. Weatherize your home • Sealing air leaks around your home is a great way to reduce your heating and cooling expenses. • Apply caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks or cracks Purchase energy efficient appliances • On average, appliances are take up about 13% of your total household energy use. • Energy efficient appliances may have higher purchase prices but cost less to operate Consider a new water heater • Purchasing an energy efficient water heater will reduce your water heating expenses. Use smart power strips • Advanced power strips can shut off the power to electronics when not in use. • Can be turned off at an assigned time, during inactivity or through remote switches. Adjust your day-to-day behavior • Energy conservation is as simple as turning off lights or appliances when not in use. • On occasion, to save energy hang dry clothes, wash dishes by hand, turn down the heat and use your air conditioner less in the summer as heating and cooling expenses constitute nearly have of an average home’s utility bill. 10
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
COVERAGE FOR THE THINGS YOU CARE FOR ■ Coverage you can customize to meet your needs ■ Contact me for a free coverage review
Call or hit my website to complete a quote online! Let me help you get smart about your coverage options.
Sara Esiline Your Local Agent
400 N STATE ST BIG RAPIDS, MI 49307 SESILINE@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/sesiline Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
ENSLEY ROOFING LLC.
Ice and Snow Removal Flat Roofing Residential & Commercial
FREE ESTIMATES
Leaks and Repairs on all types of Roofing, 14x70 Trailer-rubber Roof.
616-636-8288 Cell:
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
616-240-0863
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Helpful Homeowner Tips MULCH CAN HELP YOUR PLANTS THRIVE As you begin to plan your spring landscaping, mulch can help your plants thrive so don’t forget to consider your options. BENEFITS OF MULCH • Completes the look of your yard or flower bed • Acts as a natural weed control • Maintains moisture levels in your soil, protecting from over and under watering • Acts as a barrier to fluctuating temperatures that can damage your plants • Plant-based mulch adds nutrients back into the soil as it decomposes TYPES OF MULCH • Leaves or grass clippings decompose quickly and enrich the soil • Bark is decorative, decomposes slowly and adds nutrients to the soil • Wood chips are decorative, decompose quickly and add nutrients to the soil • Stones or pebbles are decorative but not beneficial to the soil like plant-based mulch, but won’t have to be replaced every year HAVING SUCCESS WITH MULCH • Protect the yard around your planting bed with edging • For new plants, shrubs or trees, install them in the soil before you add mulch and allow plenty of room to grow. Adding mulch retains water. • When adding new mulch to a perennial planting bed, remove the old layer so you don’t cause rot, starve from nutrients or kill them. • Mulch should never be more than three inches thick in a planting bed • For mature plants, shrubs or trees, clear mulch away from a four-inch area around each plant base to prevent too much water and rot. 12
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
Helpful Homeowner Tips GALLERY WALL Simple ways to change the look and feel of any room. A personalized gallery can change the vibe of an entire room and also reflect your style, passions and inspirations. It’s a great way to showcase the things you love in life including family, friends, pets and places. How you decorate a wall can create a feeling of warmth and style for your home. SUPPLIES It’s easy to get started with a few simple supplies such as picture frames, painter’s tape, nail hanging kits, hammer, level and tape measure about all you need. CHOOSE A THEME The first step is determining what inspires you. Is it artwork or photos, or both? What are your color options or do you prefer black-and-white, or maybe a mix of both. Matching frames or a mix? There really isn’t a wrong answer as gallery walls are not permanent and can be easily replaced if you get tired of it. MOCK UP A WALL LAYOUT You can literally drive yourself crazy trying to create the perfect wall. Remember if you smile when you see it, go with it. Cut out shapes, lay them on the floor, arrange them with painter’s tape, re-arrange so you can see it in various layouts, etc. Be careful not to overdo it but remember you can always add or subtract to the wall as your mood changes once it’s installed. INSTALLATION Determining where the nails should go for each frame can be tricky. You don’t want to pound nail holes all over the wall, but keep in mind that repairing old nail holes with spackling and paint is fairly easy. So, follow your plan and adjust slightly when necessary. Use patience and try to put the nails in spots that can be interchangeable with various frames. Now that you’ve created your first gallery wall, you will realize that you can repeat as often as you like. Depending on your energy level and mood, you can change your wall every year or with each changing season. You can experience with painting the wall to match or contrast with frames or artwork. View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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Helpful Homeowner Tips FIXING THAT LEAKY FAUCET Fixing a leaky faucet may not be as difficult as you might think. For most faucets it’s usually a simple fix and can take less than an hour. Faucets are an important part of your home but can be annoying when they start dripping. TOOLS YOU MAY NEED • Screwdriver • Slip-joint pliers • Penetrating oil • Allen Wrench, depending on the faucet Depending on the faucet and the type of issue it has, you may need other items. You might also consider purchasing a new faucet as they come in different price points, styles, models or it may just be time to get a new one. HOW TO STOP THAT DRIP STEP ONE – You will first want to shut off your water supply. If your house does not have shutoffs for individual fixtures, you will need to shut off the main supply. STEP TWO – Assess your faucet. Where is the leak coming from and what type of faucet is it? Is the leak coming from the base or the spout? Disassemble the faucet where the leak comes from. There are many different types of faucets and different parts based on the faucet type. There are one-handle, two-handle, pull-out, pull-down, just to name a few. STEP THREE – Disassemble the faucet. Use your Allen wrench, screwdriver and/or your slip-joint pliers to get to where the problem is with the faucet. STEP FOUR – Once you have found the problem, replace what may be worn or broken. This could be as simple as a washer or an O-ring, or be a little larger like a cartridge. STEP FIVE – Make sure that the faucet is clean before reassembling. Inspect the pieces or holes in the faucet and clean them out if they are clogged or dirty, and then you can reassemble the faucet. SAVES YOU MONEY! In the end, by investing some time to fix this problem, you wind up saving money. A small leak could waste anywhere from a few gallons of water to hundreds of gallons over the course of a year. 14
Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021
MOVING CHECK-LIST
Simple ideas to keep yourself organized and stay on task.
TWO MONTHS BEFORE MOVING r Sort through your belongings to reduce the number of things you move. r Have a garage sale or donate items you no longer need to charity. r Decide whether to move yourself or hire professionals. Make reservations with a moving company or truck rental company. Tip: Call three companies for estimates to compare.
r Gather packing supplies: boxes, packing material, tape, felt markers, and scissors. r If you’re moving a long distance, make travel arrangements with the airline, hotel, and rental car agency. If you’re driving to your new home, get maps and plan your travel route. r Save all moving receipts, because some moving expenses may be tax deductible. Check the current tax code for requirements. r Place your legal, medical, financial, and insurance records in a safe and a accessible place. r Purchase insurance coverage for valuables to be moved. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ONE MONTH BEFORE MOVING
r Start packing items that aren’t regularly used such as off-season clothes and decorations and items in storage areas (garage, attic, and closets). r Make travel arrangements for your pets. r If you’re driving, get your car tuned up. r Get medical records from your doctors, dentist, optometrist, and veterinarian. r Send items (rugs, drapes, clothing, quilts, bedding) to the cleaners. r Back up important computer files to floppy disk. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
TWO WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
r Contact your utility companies (gas, electric, water, cable, trash collector, and local phone service providers) and notify them of your move. r Sign up for services at your new address. r Contact your long distance phone company and notify them of your move. r Call friends and family and recruit help for the moving day if necessary. r Confirm your travel reservations. r Arrange to close or transfer your bank account, if appropriate. Pick up items from safety deposit box. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ONE WEEK BEFORE MOVING
r Pick up items from the cleaners, repair shops, or friends. r Pack a survival kit of clothes, medicines, special foods, and so on to carry you through the day after arrival in your new home. r Finish packing all boxes minus what you will need in the final week. r Inform the post office of your upcoming move. Send change-of-address cards with your new address and phone number to: r Friends and family r Banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, and other financial institutions r Magazines and newspapers r Doctors, lawyer, accountant, Realtor, and other service providers View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
r State and federal tax authorities and any other government agencies as needed r Workplace, schools, and alma maters r Voter registration office and motor vehicle bureau r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
THE DAY BEFORE
r Set aside moving materials, such as tape measure, pocket knife, and rope. r Pad corners and stairways of house. r Lay down old sheets in the entry and hallways to protect floor coverings. r Remove hanging fixtures. r If moving yourself, pick up the rental truck and a hand truck or dolly to move heavy boxes. r If you’re driving, check oil and gas in your car. r If you’re traveling, make sure you have tickets, charge cards, and other essentials. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
MOVING DAY
Carry with you: r The keys to your new home. r Map of new town and directions to your house. r The telephone number of the moving company. r Cash or traveler’s checks. r Documentation related to the sale of your home. r Your insurance policies and agent’s phone number. r Your current address book or personal planner. r Prescription and non-prescription medicines. r Enough clothing to get by if the movers are late. r Any important personal records and documents. r Any items of great personal value to you that are virtually irreplaceable (for example, a photo album). r Back-up copies of important computer files. r Sheets and towels for the first night in your new home. r Personal hygiene items (for example, toothpaste, soap, razor) r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ARRIVAL DAY
r Show movers where to place furniture and boxes. r Check inventory to ensure that everything was delivered before signing delivery papers. Note any damages on the inventory sheet. Tip: It’s helpful to have the movers read off the inventory numbers on boxes and furniture while you check the inventory list.
r Unpack any valuable items, such as silver, art, and jewelry, upon arrival. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
AFTER THE MOVE
r Walk and drive around your neighborhood and community to orient yourself and your family. r Get new drivers licenses, library cards, voter registration cards, and bus passes. r Enroll children in school. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
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231-972-8300
Kathleen Adams 231-250-3197
Bob Manzagol 231-349-8096
Sue Kempton 231-638-3498
Kolina Mako 989-423-0452
Joe Mako Rockie Peacock 989-303-8544 231-349-5533
33+ acres on Chippewa river
Jim Bradley 231-598-4640
Todd Lincoln Michael Roberts 989-560-4884 989-506-4275
Peter Taylor Marshall Henry 989-857-9017 231-598-0838
Rich Marino 586-630-8773
Rick Kempton 231-349-8300
Custom condo on tullymore golf course
8 acres - school sec lake & rainbow pond
Newly constructed home
2.68 acres on all sports tiff lake
1.2 Acres on All sports big john brown lk
Sunset shores – 55+ gated community
Updated ranch w/Horsehead lake access
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Find it in the Home Finder n JULY 2021