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DECEMBER 2020
From our house to yours, wishing you a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season filled with health, happiness and peace.
231-937-1077
#RockYourListing
www.rockgaterealestate.com
Jackie Bissonette Russell Bissonette Derek Dickerson Associate Broker
989-317-5660
Jeff Empie
Steve Magnusson Brittany Magnusson
Tina Pelton
Serine Petersen
Lois Waldron
Tina Zachow
989-287-4450 616-890-5529 616-433-5297 231-912-1076 231-250-8362 231-414-2345 231-245-7592 616-260-5523 616-581-4941
RESIDENTIAL
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CO M M E R C I A L
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R E N TA L S
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VACA N T L A N D
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WAT E R F R O N T
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Brittany Felde
Associate Broker
231-414-3883
FA R M S
A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE PIONEER GROUP ALSO ONLINE AT HOMEFINDERGUIDE.COM
Wondering what your Home is Worth?
Sue Kempton 231-638-3498
Bob Manzagol 231-349-8096
Kathleen Adams 231-250-3197
Jim Bradley 231-598-4640
Todd Lincoln 989-560-4884
Peter Taylor 989-857-9017
Kolina Mako 989-423-0452
Marshall Henry 231-598-0838
Michael Roberts 989-506-4275
Rich Marino 586-630-8773
Joe Mako 989-303-8544
Rockie Peacock Rick Kempton 231-349-5533 231-349-8300
School section lake
CAMPGROUND
72+ acres
TRI LAKES DOCK ACCESS
Highlands golf course
50 wooded acres
Commercial building
Must see condo
HORSEHEAD LK ACCESS
Country setting
Great starter home Business opportunity
Garage w/cottage
CBLakes.com 2
3 Lots w/garage
2.35 acres
Commercial building
231-972-8300 Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
From All of us at Results Real Estate
129 W. Upton, Reed City Danielle Sundquist www.resultsrealestate.org RealtoR 00
$199,0
#20048182
Historical 5,100sq ft commercial building in Reed City’s downtown business district. Two fantastic retail, office, or professional office spaces. This building allows an amazing opportunity for a new business to get started in one of the units while having the second unit bringing in lease income to offset any overhead. Come be a part of Reed City’s growing community.
00
$118,0
#20033191
Beautiful 40 acres with 2 gated entrances at each end of the property would make a perfect walkout building site. This property includes a barn, deer blind, pasture land, rolling hills, and fruit trees.
00
$398,0
#20047232
This historical 10,000 sq.ft building also known as Reed City Feed & Supply presents itself with huge face lift over the last few years. This profitable Feed Mill operation offers high traffic counts with easy access to and from the crossroads of US HWY 10 & HWY 131. The building offers a working elevator, unloading/bulk load out auger, unloading pit and rotary, 2 loading docks, 8 bays, plenty of dry storage and a rustic/chic storefront that also offers local supplies making this a community minded business to be proud of. Business, Real Estate and equipment are included in the sale price. A 9 ton-capacity feed truck, skid steer w/ forks and bucket are just a few items included on the equipment list. Call today for the complete list.
00
$169,0
#20032653
Location! Location! Location! 52 +/- Acres of hardwoods, pines & open fields to entice the natural habitat. the deer, turkey, and other wildlife are plentiful and offer great outdoor adventures.
Nancy McCallahan associate BRokeR, RealtoR 00
$169,9
#20046789
Are you looking for privacy and seclusion? This 5 BR, 2 Bath ranch home on 5 acres offers you just that! This newer home offers an amazing kitchen with several custom upgrades including granite countertops and oversized center island. Other amenities in this 2100+ square foot home include an oversized master suite with walk in closet and garden tub, beautiful fireplace, spacious living room and family room, new flooring throughout, new paint throughou t, high efficiency furnace, new 12x16 front deck, 12x18 rear deck off the dining room patio into the fenced in backyard, new 12x24 portable shed with electric, other 2 sheds also have electric. Home is completely move in ready - a MUST SEE!!
0
$79,90
#20005593
LAND CONTRACT TERM! Business Opportunity! This previously thriving gas
station / convenience store is now an open canvas to the new buyer. The potential is endless. What was recently known as the Hawkins Country Store offering beer and wine sales, lotto, commercial pizza oven, ice cream station, gas, propane tank refills, tobacco sales, 12 panel walk-in cooler, 3 phase electric, ADT security system, new fountain soda machine, and more! ($89900 on land contract)
Tricia Wirth owneR, BRokeR 00
$108,9
#20042057
Remodeled 3 bedroom cottage offers deeded access to sandy beach front on all sports Rose Lake. This charming cottage offers new carpet & durable LVT wood flooring, butcher block kitchen island, all new paint throughout, lots of natural daylight, lake views from the large picture window, covered front porch, and lots of storage for all your water toys/fishing gear. Call today to make this up-north, family getaway become yours! Come enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating all summer long.
0
$44,90
#20020798
Are you an entrepreneur looking to make your start? This Commercial Building offers multiple uses! Sports Shop? Bait Shop? Repair Shop? Hair Salon? Accounting Office? Insurance Office? This 800 sq ft building is just 1 block off of US-10 and right behind the Chase Gas Station; offering great traffic potential and easy access points to compliment the location, also near rails to trail. Building offers a new roof, new well, new septic, 100 amp electric on a nice sized lot for only $44,900!
www.resultsrealestate.org View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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BUSINESS CARD & PROFESSIONALS
Directory 231-937-1077
8520 100th Ave. , Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com
Jackie Bissonette, Associate Broker 989-317-5660
Making Dreams Come True www.rockgaterealestate.com
Your Lakefront expert!
Dan Bollman, Associate Broker
231-629-2680
Over 30 Years Experience dan@century21whitehouse.com
www.Century21WhiteHouse.com
8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com
KATHY ADAMS
231• 250• 3197 kadamscblakes@gmail.com
BUYING OR SELLING?
My Results Will Move You DRIVEN BY EXPERIENCE & INTEGRITY 129 W. UpTon i reed ciTy
231.629.0352 4
Tricia WirTh
Real Estate
1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI Lori Brock Office: 231-796-4805 Broker/Owner www.rivertownrealestate.org 231-250-8882 Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
Helpful Homeowner Tips PAINTING TIPS Few changes to a room or home can refresh quite like a new coat of paint. You don’t really need to use a big decorating budget or hire a professional to get professional results PREP THE WALLS: Lightly sand before you start to smooth uneven spots of clumps created the last time the walls were painted. Sanding also helps new paint stick better. DON’T SKIMP ON TAPE: It’s worth buying new, quality painters tape to obtain the clean lines professionals are known for. For a couple more dollars, it’s worth it to buy higher quality tape. SHAKE THINGS UP: If your paint isn’t completely mixed, you won’t get a uniform color on walls. A mixing stick alone may not do the job, instead put the lid on the paint can and hold it tightly in place with your thumbs. Then, shake the paint can up and down for a couple minutes. CONSIDER SKIPPING PRIMER: Many paints have the primer built in these days. If you’re making a dramatic color change from a dark purple to a light blue, or painting new drywall that hasn’t been painted before, you will need to use primer, otherwise you can save yourself some work by skipping the primer. FOLLOW A PAINT PLAN: The ceiling should be the first thing you paint as it can easily spill or splatter on walls or trim. Next you should paint the trim boards because you won’t have to worry about taping off the wall, painting the wall becoming the last step. DON’T DILLY DALLY: When painting walls, use a brush to paint a border at the corners but don’t wait too long to paint the walls with a roller as this might cause a bit of a contrast in the colors. CONSIDER TWO COATS: Regardless if you choose one-coat paint or not, you may not evenly cover every square inch of the surface. Therefore, to obtain a more even, rich finish you might want to add a second coat. REMOVE TAPE ASAP: Once you’re finished painting, gently pull off the painters tape at a 90-degree angle as soon as possible. As a general rule, if you leave the tape on a wall too long, there’s a greater chance that the paint will come off with the tape View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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The Strength of Teamwork.
Lori Brock Broker/Owner
231-250-8882
1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI
Yvonne Meyer Realtor
231-468-8068
Bridget Lamoreaux Realtor
616-214-1007
231-796-4805 •
Allitta Hren Realtor
231-250-8192
Jennifer Verdi-Stieg Realtor
231-287-0410
Hailey Brock Realtor
231-527-5769
www.RivertownRealEstate.org
Toilet paper shortages and square foot shortages got you down? Give Rivertown a call - we can help you spare a square. We are ready to list and sell your home today! LAKE MICHIGAN HOME
SOLD! IMPRESSIVE ESTATE
SOLD! SOLD!
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$174,000 • Charlevoix #19008073
Wake up to the ever changing, breath taking view of Lake Michigan. Hilltop view allows you to see the spectacular view of the Leelanau Peninsula and Fox Island. A view that is not easily found/bonus there are 2 public Lake Michigan accesses. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets from your deck. Home has several updates, including a second bath with one of a kind custom design, open shower with porcelain tile floors. The walls are uniquely designed with Petoskey stone inlay, and the bathroom is handicap accessible. Newer furnace and metal roof. All this on 2.4 Acres.
$449,900 • Big Rapids #20040103
Impressive custom designed Muskegon Riverfront Estate. Ideally located on a cul-de sac, offering privacy, yet just minutes from shopping, entertainment and school. Incredible home features 5 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, main floor master bedroom suite w/ walkout deck. Open floor plan with welcoming kitchen ,granite counter tops, main floor laundry. Expansive outdoor living space with many decks and balconies offering elevated exclusive views perfect for unwinding or entertaining. Four car garage! Enough room for all your vehicles and toys plus a 24x16 adorable man cave shed with loft.
SOLD!
HUNTING RETREAT
SOLD! 3.2 ACRES
SOLD! SOLD!
$295,000 • Reed City #19055937
Adorable ‘’Up North’’ Hunting Retreat/Cabin, lakefront, pond front, wooded acreage, 24x48 pole barn for all your toys. 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bath full finished walkout basement, wrap around deck incredible views from every window. If you desire peace, serenity with wildlife surrounding you this is your dream home look no further.
$124,900 • Charleviox #20011729
This home as a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. Older double wide with 3 bed, 1.5 bath.Home has a 2 car attached garage and a separate workshop. This would make an ideal cottage or a year round home. Home is being sold as is. Home next door is also for sale. Buy both and use this home as a rental or move the parents or kids in next door. Buyer to confirm all measurements. More pictures to come, as soon as it is possible to get inside.
SOLD!
$54,900 • Baldwin • #19022517
$194,000 • Big Rapids • #20028461
$12,900 • Baldwin • #20020366
$125,000 • Big Rapids • #20018435
This home offers 3 bedrooms & 1 bath and completely rebuilt and reinsulated in 2000. Property has a wide array of fruit trees including Apple, Plum, Peach and Crabapple. Adorable outside gazebo, fire pit and garden area. The 24x32 garage has 11 foot ceilings, 200 amp electric hooked up, air conditioning and a pellet stove. With 4 separate wells on the property the possibilities are endless.
Nature Lovers Dream Home!! Adorable home is nestled in the woods on almost 10 wooded acres of land on just minutes from town. The home is impeccably maintained and has main floor laundry, patio & large deck for entertaining, 2 car attached garage with work area. Home boasts Quartz counter tops with deep sinks and pull down faucet, Bamboo floors, newer appliances, newly remodeled basement, solid oak doors.
Beautifully wooded 2.2-acre parcel is close to lots of State Land! Perfect spot to set up camp for a great weekend with so much to offer in the area such as fishing on the Pere Marquette and Baldwin Rivers, ORV or snowmobile right to the trails from this property, or build your dream Up North getaway and never leave. Property offers 28 lots so if you want to get the buddies together to go hunting everyone can enjoy their own spot.
Country Charmer only minutes from Big Rapids. This quaint home has been recently updated and new roof installed in 2019. Main floor laundry, 2 sources of heat LP and wood. Home is nestled in the trees with a large patio to relax on. Beautiful she shed, garden area, nice area for a few animals. Beautiful views of the 1.8 acres of peace and serenity. Who could ask for more?? This home has been loved and it shows.
SOLD!
SOLD!
SOLD!
SOLD!
$61,000 • Harrison • #20009355
$124,400 • Stanwood • #19040048
$60,000 • Baldwin • #20000511
$74,000 • Blanchard • #20017036
Up North Retreat!! Cozy wooded location, 2 bedroom 1 bath home Only 3 miles from Harrison offering a little bit of everything for the whole family. From 20 Lakes in 20 minutes for the angler, off road trails for ORVs and snowmobiling, State land for hunting. Perfect opportunity for a Second Home or Summer Cottage. Home offers extra lot with cement pad and basketball hoop, home warranty and move in ready for summer fun.
Location! Location! Location! Adorable home with Creek Frontage 2 bedroom 2 bath, open floor plan- Huge master bedroom suite, alarm system, central air, huge 3 seasons room, partially landscaped, large pole barn with 2 drive in doors, cement and electric. Great Location close to Highway Rogers Heights and Stanwood.=
Looking for that little piece of paradise? A place to get away and relax or a home base as you explore the ATV, snowmobile trails, national forest, surrounding lakes and culture of the area. This is the BEST frontage on the lake. Public beach is located just a stones throw away. Home is turn-key ready. All furnishings stay, bring your personal items & be prepared to have fun and make memories.
Cute Colonial 2 story home featuring 4 bedrooms 1 ½ bath on 2 acres. Beautiful fireplace and matching planter in the living room. Many built in shelves, dressers and desks throughout the home. 2 sheds and many beautiful flower gardens and trees. Vinyl windows & siding and a special area for train lovers. A must see at this price.
Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
Christmas came early. We were gifted with two new agents!!!!! 1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI
231-796-4805 • www.RivertownRealEstate.org
Hailey Brock Hi, I’m Hailey and I am a real estate professional with Rivertown Real Estate. Through many years of Real Estate and Business education, I’ve constructed a competitive process to market and sell your home. I also know how stressful home buying can be, and would love to take the weight off your shoulders. I’m young, eager, and determined to help you with the buying or selling process. I’m available to my clients 24/7 and will work around the clock to make this process simple and stress-free. I can’t wait to see you!
Jennifer Verdi-Stieg My name is Jennifer and I was a realtor for 7 years and left to raise my children until grown. I was also an assistant in real estate to Lori Brock during that time. It helped me gain experience and knowledge of the real estate world. I have plenty of experience in selling and buying homes along with REO’s/ Bank foreclosures. I am happy to be back into real estate and ready to serve the surrounding area.
Happy Holidays from Rivertown Real Estate we would like to thank past,present and future clients for their commitment to our small business without you it would not be possible! View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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stop in and see the experts... at Big Rapids Cash & Carry! Ask about Brookhaven Cabinetry
Don’t forget our full line of Michigan Made Pioneer Cabinetry!
www.pioneercabinetry.net
www.wood-mode.com
South 3rd Ave. Big rapids 130 Big Rapids
Cash & Carry
www.brcc.doitbest.com
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1948
MICHAEL
OIL & PROPANE
231-796-3595
Email us at: bigrapidscashcarry@gmail.com
Premium Diesel Fuel Highway & Off Road • Heating Fuel Gasoline • Kerosene • Propane We have REC Gas & K-1 Kerosene -- Pick Up or Delivery
18655 Northland Dr., Old U.S. 131, Big Rapids | 231-796-8681 www.michaeloilandpropane.com | Online Payment Options Available! 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE!
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Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
Helpful Homeowner Tips BASEMENT LEAKING? Does water leak into your basement during a bad rain storm? Are your block walls insufficiently sealed? Do you need gutters? Is the slope of your yard allowing the rain to run right down your basement? There are many things that can factor into water getting into your basement. Here are a couple things that you can do to prevent this from happening. • Waterproofing paint to cover the block basement walls and help repel water from seeping in. • Watertite caulk to fill any gaps in the wall. Make sure your walls are dry and clean before sealing with paint and caulk. • Add soil to the ground next to the house to create a slope that would push water away from the foundation of the house. • Install gutters Add rain gutter extensions to drain water further away from your foundation. The type of gutter used (aluminum, vinyl, etc) will depend on your local climate. Use a leaf catch cover over the gutter to avoid your gutters clogging which could damage your gutters or cause water to overfill and fall onto your foundation. • Install a sump pump to automatically drain water from your basement if it returns. • If you have window wells, consider putting a cover over them to keep water from pooling near your window. • If not already present, consider adding floor drains to help drain any water flowage from your basement. Plastic Flooring risers can be added to allow room for water to move freely and drain underneath wood, vinyl, or other traditional flooring. • If you currently have water in your basement: Use a combination of mops, squeegees, and buckets to collect and dispose of standing water in your basement Use a dehumidifier to remove remaining water residue. Ensure the dehumidifier is rated to the size of your basement. View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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The Bluffs
Premier Building Sites! Near Downtown Big Rapids
Featuring:
Easy access to US 131 for a quick commute to Grand Rapids or Cadillac.
Scan QR Code for a Video of
The Bluffs
premier home sites. LOT# 2 4 9 14 40 41
• • • • • • •
PRICE $24,500 $19,900 $19,900 $24,900 $34,500 $32,500
DIMENSIONS 109x349x116x277 129x254x140x292 158x261x133x248 155x259x150x225 117x441x158x416 138x468x105x441
MSL# 19051986 19051987 19051988 19051989 19051990 19051991
Now Offering Buyer Incentives!
Premier Building Sites. River Front Building Sites. Favorable Taxes. No City Taxes. No HOA Fees. Some Acreage Parcels. Wooded Parcels
• • • • • •
Close to Downtown Big Rapids. Near Ferris State University. Near Shopping and Dining. Paved Roads. Natural Gas. New Home Construction.
8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
KATHY ADAMS
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com 10
231• 250 • 3197
kadamscblakes@gmail.com Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
$142,900 • # 20048178 Solid ranch style home just outside the Big Rapids city limits in Big Rapids Township. Close enough to walk downtown. This raised ranch style home sits on two lots. Some property behind the home is a wooded city owned lot. Built in 1989, with 1011sf, this two bedroom, bath-and-a-half home has an open floor plan. Large living opens to the dining and kitchen areas. Bath has ceramic tile floors and hand rails in the tub areas. The lower level has large daylight windows in two rooms and can be finished for extra bedrooms or family room spaces. Large laundry with 220V service in lower and storage lockers. Garage is 20 x 20 and can fit two smaller cars. City water, Twp. sewer, natural gas. Large back and front yard to enjoy the outdoor spaces. Handicap ramp in back. Virtual showings.
$129,900 • # 20047015
$1.00 • # 17041429
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. 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! Call for your tour today.
Vacant lot in the Highland Woods area of Canadian Lakes. Perfect lot for using Canadian Lakes amenities or build a home in this peaceful location. Canadian Lakes amenities include golf, pools, fitness center, tennis, restaurants and more. HOA $695.00/annual. It’s a good life in Canadian Lakes!
$1.00 • # 20036898
$1.00 • # 20023385
Great deal on this cleared and ready to build Canadian Lakes lot. Membership to the popular Canadian Lakes Club will be yours with the purchase of this lot. Beautiful club golf courses, pools, beaches, restaurants and more as a member here. Ability to build a home here and live in this wonderful community or just keep the lot and use the amenities.
Buildable lot at the end of a cul-de-sac in the Royal South area of Canadian Lakes, MI. Great spot near Lake Laura and the main clubhouse; which has an indoor pool, fitness center, golf, restaurant and more. Bring your offer and enjoy all the activities that Canadian Lakes is well known for.
KATHY ADAMS
8520 100th Ave. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
231.972.8300
www.canadianlakeshomes.com
231• 250 • 3197
kadamscblakes@gmail.com
Not advertising in the HOME FINDER GUIDE?
Find it in the Home Finder at www.homefinderguide.com
I would be happy to help
Contact Ken Kasprzak Today! ken.kasprzak@pioneergroup.com
231-592-8368
...Get featured today!
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
11
HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE - CHECKLIST & TIPS:
QUARTERLY
PLUMBING Faucets & shower heads Drains Pipes Kitchen & bathroom cabinets Toilets Water heater INTERIOR Wood cabinets and trim Interior doors Garage door Window and door tracks Basement or crawl space Ceramic tile ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating and cooling systems Kitchen exhaust fan Refrigerator Dishwasher Wiring, electrical cords, & plugs Smoke detector GFI outlets EXTERIOR Foundation Landscaping Concrete and asphalt FALL PLUMBING Plumbing shut-off valves Outside faucets Water heater Faucet aerators
INTERIOR Attic
Countertops Tiled areas Shower doors/tub enclosures Weather stripping Sectional garage doors Fireplace ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating system Cooling system
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DATE LAST COMPLETED Check interior and exterior faucets for leaks Clean aerators - Replace washers if necessary Clean with baking soda Pour water down unused drains Inspect visible pipes for leaks Check under and around for leaks Check for stability and leaks Check area around water heater for leaks If you have hard water drain 1-2 gallons water
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________
Apply a wood protection Lubricate hinges Lubricate hardware - Inspect mechanism for free travel Check to see if weep holes are open Clean out dirt and dust Lubricate rollers and latches Check for cracks or any sign of dampness or leaks - Check for any evidence of termites or wood-eating insects Check and clean grout
_____________ _____________
Clean and replace filters if necessary Remove and clean the filter Clean accumulated grease deposits from the fan housing Clean dust from top - Clean refrigerator drain pan - Clean and defrost freezer if necessary Check for leaks Check for wear or damage - Replace if necessary Test for proper operation and replace batteries if necessary Test for proper operation
_____________
Inspect visible areas, vents, and ducts for cracks, leaks, or blockages Check for proper drainage Clean oil and grease
Inspect for proper operation Drain Flush out hot water to remove accumulated sediment Check for proper flow of water - If the flow is reduced, clean the aerator screens - During the first two months, the faucet aerators could require more frequent cleaning Examine for evidence of any leaks - Check insulation and remove or add if necessary Check for evidence of birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc - Check for proper ventilation Inspect for separations at sinks and backsplash - Re-caulk where required Inspect for loose or missing grout or caulking -Regrout or recaulk if necessary Inspect for proper fit - Adjust if necessary Inspect caulking and recaulk if necessary Check caulking around windows and doors Check window and door screens Adjust or replace if necessary Adjust the travel and tension Inspect flues - Clean if necessary - Inspect fireplace brick and mortar for cracks or damage Service heating system and heat pump Remove debris from around units and clean with garden hose - Remove window air conditioner or protect with weatherproof cover Clean and replace filters if necessary
_____________
FALL - ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES
Refrigerator coils Combustible appliances EXTERIOR Roof
Chimney Gutters and downspouts Exterior walls Landscaping
_____________ _____________ _____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ DATE LAST COMPLETED _____________ _____________ _____________
_____________
_____________
Concrete and asphalt Septic system Lawn and patio furniture SPRING PLUMBING Water heater INTERIOR Attic
Countertops Tiled areas Shower doors/tub enclosures Weather stripping ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating and cooling system
Circuit breakers Refrigerator EXTERIOR Decks Roof
Chimney
_____________ _____________ _____________
Gutters and downspouts Windows Exterior walls Landscaping
_____________ Concrete and asphalt _____________
Check for leaks - Check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles - Check vents and louvers for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects - Check flashing around roof stacks, vents, and skylights for leaks Clean and check for deteriorating bricks and mortar - Check for leaks - Check for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects Clean and check for leaks, misalignment, or damage Check for deteriorating bricks and mortar Check siding for damage or rot Check painted surfaces for flaking Trim shrubbery around walls - Remove tree limbs, branches, or debris that can attract insects (no wood or shrubbery should be closer than 3 inches to your house) Maintain grading Check for cracks or deterioration Reseal or repair if necessary Examine septic system drain field for flooding and odor - Have tank pumped yearly Clean and store or cover with weatherproof material
Flush out hot water to remove accumulated sediment
_____________ _____________
Clean Inspect and service if necessary
Examine for evidence of any leaks - Check insulation and remove or add if necessary Check for evidence of birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc. - Check for proper ventilation Inspect for separations at sinks and backsplash - Recaulk where required Inspect for loose or missing grout or caulking - Regrout or recaulk if necessary Inspect for proper fit - Adjust if necessary Inspect caulking and recaulk if necessary Check caulking around windows and doors Check window and door screens Adjust or replace if necessary
DATE LAST COMPLETED _____________ _____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ DATE LAST COMPLETED _____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________
General furnace inspection: Look for rust, scaling on heat exchanger, and proper flame color; note odd sounds or smells; and check condition of venting. Remove debris around units _____________ Exercise _____________ Clean coils _____________ Scrub mildewed areas and treat for water stains, mildew, and fungus Clean - Check for leaks - Check for damaged, loose or missing shingles. Check vents and louvers for birdsnests, squirrels, and insects Check flashing around roof stacks, vents, and skylights for leaks Clean and check for deteriorating bricks and mortar - Check for leaks - Check for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects Clean and check for leaks, misalignment, damage Clean Check for deteriorating bricks and mortar Check siding for damage or rot Check painted surfaces for flaking Trim shrubbery around walls - Remove tree limbs, branches, or debris that can attract insects (no wood or shrubbery should be closer than 3 inches to your house) - Maintain grading Check for cracks or deterioration Reseal or repair if necessary
_____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________
_____________ _____________
Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
WaterCare
REVERSE OSMOSIS DRINKING WATER SYSTEM Insurance for your family. Have peace of mind, with your drinking water safety. SUBSTANTIALLY REMOVES THESE CONTAMINANTS: • SODIUM (Salt) • NITRATES • CHLORINE
231-924-2310 800-382-4450
535 e. main Fremont, mi 49412
• ORGANICS • CHEMICAL CONTENT
Ensing’s
WatErCarE ensingswatercare.com
South end of Big Rapids
®
989-365-3232
313 Vesta six Lakes, mi 48886
Big Rapids
14150 Northland Dr., Big Rapids, MI 49307
231-796-2700 Find us on Facebook or visit our website to learn more!
Stop in and let our knowledgeable staff work with you today! View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
No Job Too Small!
13
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
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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 __________________________________________________ Find it in the Home Finder n DECEMBER 2020
HELPFUL PACKING TIPS & CHECK LIST r Gather boxes in all sizes from friends, neighbors, and stores. r Collect cushioning material such as bubble wrap, foam pellets, furniture pads, old blankets, plastic bags, tissue paper, newspapers, and small towels to use as padding inside boxes. r Create a portable packing kit with marking pens, a tape measure, packing tape, twine, and scissors. Carry it with you as you pack up items around your home. r Reinforce the bottom of boxes with extra tape for added strength. r Label each box with the name of the room in your new home where it should be placed. r List the contents of the box on the side of it. r Number the boxes and keep a list of which boxes go in which room in your new home.
r Label boxes containing fragile items with large red lettering. r Place china in plastic bags and stack plates upright on their sides, not flat. r Pack your TV, stereo, and computer in their original boxes whenever possible. r Keep boxes to 50 pounds or less. r Pack heavy items into their own smaller boxes and place lighter items together into larger boxes.
KITCHEN r Cupboards r Closets r Drawers r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for kitchen: ____________ DINING ROOM r China cabinet or hutch r Light fixture and lamps r Furniture: tables and chairs r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for dining room: _________ LIVING ROOM r Bookcases and contents r Entertainment center and contents: stereo, TV, CDs, videotapes, and so on r Knick knacks and artwork r Lamps r Furniture: couch, chairs, and tables r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for living room: _________ FAMILY ROOM r Entertainment center and contents: stereo, TV, CDs, videotapes, and so on. r Knick knacks and artwork r Furniture: couch, chairs, and tables r Lamps r ___________________________ r ___________________________
r Box numbers for family room: _________ MASTER BEDROOM r Closet r Dressers and contents r Furniture: bed, dressers, night stands, and desk r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for master bedroom: BEDROOM #1 r Closet r Dressers and contents r Furniture: bed, dressers, night stands, and desk r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers of bedroom #1: _________ BEDROOM #2 r Closet r Dressers and contents r Furniture: bed, dressers, night stands, and desk r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for bedroom #2: _________ BEDROOM #3 r Closet r Dressers and contents r Furniture: bed, dressers, night stands, and desk r ___________________________ r ___________________________
(Don’t pack all your books into one box!)
r Don’t move flammable, combustible, corrosive, or explosive items such as paint, gasoline, and ammunition. r Pack a bag of personal items you’ll need during the move (change of clothes, toiletries, medicine, maps, food, and drinks). Keep it in an easy-to-find place when you pack.
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GENERAL MOVING TIPS r Disconnect and bundle cords on television and stereo components. Label each cord with masking tape and a description of where to connect it. r Plan and measure where your furniture will be placed in your new home. It’s helpful to draw a layout of your new home and sketch in the major furniture pieces. r To save time on moving day, move your boxes from the basement, upstairs, or attic to the main floor prior to the move date. Consider carrying items from the back yard to the front yard or garage ahead of time. r Keep your phone connected through moving day to stay in touch with friends, family, and the moving company.
r Box numbers for bedroom #3: _________ STUDY/OFFICE r Computer equipment: CPU, monitor, and printer r Desk and contents r Bookshelves and contents r File cabinets and contents r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for study/office: _________ BATHROOM r Cupboards and contents r Linens and towels r Knick knacks and wall hangings r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for bathroom: __________ ATTIC r Trunks r Boxes r ___________________________ r Box numbers for attic: ______________ GARAGE r Yard equipment and garden tools r Home maintenance equipment and tools r ___________________________ r Box numbers for garage: BASEMENT r Cupboards and shelves r ___________________________ r ___________________________ r Box numbers for basement: __________
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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!
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