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DINING GUIDE CRAFT COCKTAILS PGS 10-14; 42-49
SPECIAL: Ron Thomas Rise Above Ventures
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INSIDE D 8 RISE ABOVE VENTURES Ron Thomas is now committing his adult life to try to re-shape the area as something bigger than what it was when he first found it
D 15 DR. ANNE ABRAHAMSON Special areas of interest for Dr. Abrahamson include sports medicine, EMG, and musculoskeletal medicine - with a special focus on pain management
D 17 WYANDOTTE ANIMAL HOSPITAL Like most businesses the animal hospital has had to go to extraordinary measures to maintain their staff and clients’ safety
D 21 DRC CLEANING SOLUTIONS For the last eight decades, people in Southeast Michigan have trusted DRC Cleaning Solutions for all of their commercial and residential needs
D 24 EXPERT HEATING & COOLING Expert Heating & Cooling suggests being proactive vs. reactive with your HVAC systems to save time and money
D 26 MANS LUMBER & MILLWORK Mans Lumber features Trex composite decking, premium lumber and moulding, and kitchen and bathroom design
D 31 DOWNRIVER’S TOP REALTORS Finding your dream home starts with finding the right realtor/real estate team
D 45 TOP CONTRACTORS 2021 In this special section we are highlighting some of the most highly rated Home Contractors in the Downriver area
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The Best Care for your Best Friend
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BIZ UPDATE 2021
Joseph (Joe) Gruber, Director of the Wyandotte Downtown Development Authority (DDA), shares news and views of past, current, and future development in his city INTERVIEW JOSEPH MYRICK | CAMERON JONES
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hings are shaking up in Downtown Wyandotte. With several big projects in the works, there’s a lot to be excited about. Newly opened in the former bank on the corner of 1st Street and Maple Street is a combination of office space utilizing 13,000 of the 24,000-square-foot building. Then, in the remaining space an upscale restaurant called The Vault on First and six apartments are currently under construction. Also on Biddle Avenue are a handful of new medical office buildings being planned near the medical campus. A couple of blocks off Biddle, the Downriver Actors Guild is looking at the former St. Elizabeth Church to create a new performing arts center. Over on Oak Street, Michigan Legacy Credit Union’s Wyandotte branch is receiving a remodel that’s as innovative as it is imaginative. The financial institution will introduce an interactive teller machine that allows members to conduct business virtually with a live teller. The machine, designed to look like a vintage jukebox, will complement the branch's 1950s theme redesign. According to Wyandotte’s Downtown Development Authority Executive Director, Joseph Gruber, one of the most significant projects is The W Lofts coming to the site of the former post office. This development will feature commercial space, residential units, as well as a rooftop bar and pool. Gruber explains that this growth is one of the largest the area has seen since the late ’70s. Like many communities, Wyandotte was heavily impacted by the 2008 housing crisis. Despite this, the city was fortunate enough to see sprouts of recovery relatively soon, such as the redevelopment of the former Sears Roebuck into a mixed-use building that houses Community Choice Credit Union, Daly Merritt Insurance, and six loft apartments. “We are a resilient community and have bounced back thanks to the strong foundation of the business owners and business community,” says Gruber. With these updates will come an expected increase in traffic, a challenge Gruber says the DDA is prepared to meet. “Not many people know, but the city owns and operates 11 surface parking lots throughout the Downtown area. That’s hundreds and hundreds of spaces available, totally free, 24 hours a day.” Looking toward the future, Gruber says the former city hall is being looked at with a local developer, “That’s a huge opportunity and probably one of the last great development opportunities on Biddle Avenue.” With a promising future on the horizon, Wyandotte continues to be a local destination for everyone.
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The model the Wyandotte DDA has constructed is one that will bring prosperity to everyone who calls Wyandotte home.
WYANDOTTE IS A CITY THAT HAS FOUND SUCCESS IN BALANCING A TRENDY DOWNTOWN WITH BEAUTIFUL RESIDENTIAL AREAS June/July 2021
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biz profile
RISE ABOVE VENTURES Becoming a real estate developer was key to giving back to his childhood home. “I understand that this place is special,” Wyandotte resident Ron Thomas gushes about his city. “At the moment I feel like my greatest purpose is to do my part to help my hometown realize that potential.” EDIT JOSEPH MYRICK
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Grosse Ile ROBBIN MOYER Director of Marketing
734 - 282- 4640 ext 1 robbin@grosseilemag.com GrosseIleMag.com | Facebook @GrosseIleMag | Twitter @GrosseIleMag
profile
“The hard truth is that ‘easy success’ is a myth. Success is simple but not ‘easy’” A native of Wyandotte, Ron Thomas is now committing his adult life to try to re-shape the area as something bigger than what it was when he first found it. “I am a product of this city,” he says proudly. “I was born here. I was educated in its classrooms. Its culture is my culture.” For Thomas, becoming a real estate developer was his key to giving back to his childhood home. A home that has yet to achieve its full potential, but holds impressive attributes for a brighter future. Wyandotte is already noteworthy for its illuminating waterfront and charming nightlife, but Thomas still envisions a brighter reality for this quaint Downriver communty. “I am a native who left for many years with no intentions of returning, but after having the privilege of experiencing so many places, I understand that this place is special,” the Wyandotte
resident gushes about the city he adores. “At the moment I feel like my greatest purpose is to do my part to help my hometown realize that potential.” Thomas is long past the days where he was a teenager walking into City Hall with his own money to pay past due utility bills so that the lights could turn back on and so that his sister could take a shower. Or the kid who was once enamored with building things in shop class. It was during these years that his journey to becoming who he is today started to take shape. Using a work ethic instilled by his parents and an urge to pull himself out of tough times simply by creating, he’s molded himself as, in his own words, a “30-something working professional,” with a “relentless determination to change [his] path.” His first step in doing just that was by founding Rise Above Ventures - his first business he started 16 years ago originally under the name Rise Above Entertainment. He borrowed the phrase “Rise Above” from his childhood icon, expert bike rider Mat Hoffman. Thomas himself is a huge BMX fan and rider himself. So much so that he’s applied his June/July 2021
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“Lately, I get a lot of credit for the work of many, but none of the recent accomplishments belong to me alone” Ron Thomas started his first business 16 years ago under the name Rise Above Entertainment - borrowing the phrase, “Rise Above” from his childhood icon, expert BMX bike rider, Mat Hoffman.
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love for BMX into perfecting his craft in real estate. “When I used to tour doing bike stunt performances, kids would often ask ‘How did you learn these cool tricks?’” He begins to explain. “To which I would reply ‘What you do is pedal real, real fast – and then practice for 10 years.’” In more blunt terms, anyone hoping to find themselves in Thomas’ position as a brand owner and developer must “be patient and persistent. That is the best advice I can offer. Willingness to singularly focus on your objective for years on end, without any expectation of reward or recognition along the way, seems to be a universal prerequisite to success. I don’t know if I’ve encountered something costlier than impatience – or people more successful than those who just work without the expectation of immediate gratification. The hard truth is that easy success is a myth. Success is simple, but not easy.” And so, with that in mind, patience has afforded Thomas to become a broker with Options Realty, partner in AGA Nation, and recently helped unveiled a new restaurant, The Vault on First, which joined his Maple Professional Building in March. And that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface on his future projects in development. Although he’s careful not to reveal too many of his plans too early, he is comfortable sharing it’s likely that he’ll be redeveloping the former City Hall building at 3131 Biddle Ave. starting in early 2022 with Joe Gruber, di-
rector of the Downtown Development Authority, as well as he and Joe Daly, bringing eight residences to market on the 4th floor of 3200 Biddle Ave. Most importantly, Thomas has found his biggest success through his first and biggest venture into the city: The Offices in Wyandotte. The project saw Thomas go out of his way to transform a bevy of buildings in the Oak Street area into a co-working space. From there, he and his partners sought to reinvigorate even more buildings that were connected together on First Street. This formed the basis for a new, second location of The Offices. Above everything else, through all of his successes, Thomas stays humble. Regardless of the amount of success he’s achieved, he knows he couldn’t have done it without the people around him. “Lately, I get a lot of credit for the work of many. But none of the recent accomplishments belong to me alone. I have investors, partners, banks, a city that’s gone out of its way to facilitate my efforts, a spouse who carries her own weight, and mine on occasion, staff, and contractors - who all work toward things that present as my own accomplishments. I appreciate the recognition, but it’s rightfully shared. We are a team. I am thankful for each of them, andthat matters more than anything else.”
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For The Offices in Wyandotte membership info please call 734 506 0077 ext. 1, or visit theofficesin.com
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Body Energy Fitness® Pilates Studio
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DR. ANNE ABRAHAMSON Special areas of interest for Dr. Abrahamson include sports medicine, EMG, and musculoskeletal medicine - with a special focus on pain management
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f you’re looking for a personalized approach to optimal health, look no further than Great Lakes Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation in Wyandotte. “As a physiatrist, I have always focused on patient quality of life,” explains Dr. Anne Abrahamson. Great Lakes Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specializes in managing pain through a comprehensive and tailored wellness program established between a physician and patient to address and/or prevent the unwanted symptoms that occur due to aging. “Through careful consideration of the patient’s program goals and past medical history, we assist them in fulfilling their ideal
state of health. We manage this while also maintaining a patient-centric, efficient, personal environment. The results patients enjoy are so satisfying.” Dr. Abrahamson says that it was while on vacation where she met a physician whose beliefs on alternate therapies encouraged her to further her interest in health and fitness. Later while pursuing education via A4M and The International Peptide Society, Dr. Abrahamson was introduced to Dr. William A. Seeds, founder of the Seeds Scientific Research and Performance Institute. As a fellow of the program, she attends meetings every few months to collaborate and learn. “The training is ev-
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TOP DOC Dr. Anne Abrahamson is a life-long resident of the Downriver area. She received an undergraduate degree from Wayne State University in Nutrition and Food Science, and then her Medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine. She completed her residency as well as her post-doctoral studies at William Beaumont Hospital, and is Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.
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TOP DOC “We’ve received a Four Star rating!” Great
Start
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Great Start to Quality helps families find quality childcare, preschool, early education development centers. helps and families find andquality childcare,
Infants • Toddlers • School Age Programs Curriculums Utilized
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Grosse Ile ROBBIN MOYER Director of Marketing
734 - 282- 4640 ext 1 robbin@grosseilemag.com GrosseIleMag.com | Facebook @GrosseIleMag | Twitter @GrosseIleMag
profile
Continued from page D 16 idence-based, backed by research, and approaches disease in a radically different framework: disease reversal and prevention from the cellular level,” says Dr. Abrahamson. “Our group are considered ‘Masterminds.’” Unlike impersonal approaches, Great Lakes Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation strives to include patients in their wellness plan. “Education is key to improving health. Education regarding physical activity, diet, exercise, even which supplements should be taken
and when and how is invaluable. Patients know what their goals are, they just need the tools to help achieve them.” Great Lakes Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation offers a broad range of healing practices including peptide therapy, photobiomodulation red light therapy bed, laser therapy, lipotropic injections, IV nutritional therapy, hormonal therapy, TRT, regenerative injection therapies including PRP therapy and exosomes, medical and cosmetic botox. Not only is pain managed, but patients doing proactive treatments may experience improved energy levels, sleep, mental focus, weight management, amplified exercise performance, stamina and recovery.
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Great Lakes Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation is located at 3247 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte. For more information call 734-287-3000, visit greatlakesrehab.net or greatlakeshealthandwellness.com
BIZ PROFILE
WYANDOTTE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Like most businesses the animal hospital has had to go to extraordinary measures to maintain their staff and clients’ safety
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he team at the Wyandotte Animal Hospital has been working hard during the pandemic to keep not just pets healthy, but their owners as well. Like most businesses, the animal hospital has had to go to extraordinary measures to maintain their staff and clients’ safety. The biggest change is asking clients to remain in their car for the duration of the appointment. According to Dr. Paul Crawshaw, the re-
EDIT JACKI KILBRIDE
PHOTO IAN POKRIEFKA
“I’m a big believer that having a pet is awesome for distress and making your life better” – Dr. Paul Crawshaw
quirement can be frustrating for clients, but he appreciates that people have been generally understanding of the temporary change. With these additional measures, Dr. Crawshaw says that they are immensely busy but continue to service clients as quickly as possible. “It’s a struggle, and we’re usually quite fast and efficient in what we do, but we can’t be in this situation,” says Dr. Crawshaw. While the practice is currently too busy to employ new procedures, Dr. Crawshaw June/July 2021
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BIZ PROFILE
GABRIEL RICHARD AT A GLANCE • Gabriel Richard offers more Advanced Placement/Honors level classes than any other area school (24 total)
Continued from page D 18 is considering making use of Telemedicine in the future, which would enable clients to video call about their pet’s concern. Areas where this may be helpful include pets recovering for a skin infection and determining how much longer they need to continue treatment. Besides the pandemic, Wyandotte Animal Hospital has seen some recent additions, one of which is Simparica Trio, a chewable pill for dogs that prevents fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites. This new favorite combines
• Gabriel Richard is the only school in the area to offer American Sign Language (ASL) on site
• • • • • • • • •
100% graduation and college acceptance rate 18:1 student to teacher classroom average 1:1 technology program Every student has a Chromebook DECA program 30+ sports teams including lacrosse One-of-a-kind athletic turf field State-of-the-art gymnasium More than $7.3 million awarded in college scholarships for the Class of 2019
• More than 8,000 hours of service to those in need were provided by the Gabriel Richard community in 2018-19
GABRIEL RICHARD CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
15325 Pennsylvania | Riverview, MI 48193
“It’s a GReat day to be a Pioneer!” 734-284-3636 | GabrielRichard.org
what would be two treatments into one, and lasts two months, so pet parents don’t have to convince their dog to take as many pills as often. The practice also welcomed a new vet, Dr. Kathy Wells. Dr. Wells has over 30 years of practice, and according to Dr. Crawford, “she’s got a great bedside manner and gets along well with the team.” If there has been at least one positive outcome of the Coronavirus, it’s been an increase in people adopting pets and spending more time with their animals, says Dr. Crawford, who has two border terriers of his own. Says the doctor, “I’m a big believer that having a pet is awesome for distress and making your life better. So many people have gone out and bought pets, and it’s probably a lifesaver.”
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Wyandotte Animal Hospital is located at 4448 Biddle Ave. For additional info please call 734-284-6466 or visit wyandotteanimalhospital.com
HOUSE +HOME
The D Profile features the Top Realtors and Top Contractors in Downriver each year as a special resource for Downriver residents and businesses
In our newly expanded ‘House + Home’ coverage we profile individuals and businesses that help you care for one of the most important investments in your life – your home! Read and save these pages as your ‘resource guide’ for local businesses that offer vital services to Downriver residents – from maintaince or improvement – to buying or selling your home
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FAMILY OWNED 4TH GENERATION
313-381-1492 2323 FORT ST., LINCOLN PARK BusensAppliance.com
ROBBIN MOYER Director of Marketing 734 - 282- 4640 ext 1 robbin@visitthed.com
VisitTheD.com | Facebook @VisitTheD | Twitter @VisitTheD
CLEAN solution For the last eight decades, people across Southeast Michigan have trusted DRC Cleaning Solutions for all of their commercial and residential needs EDIT SUNDRA HILSINGER
PHOTO IAN POKRIEFKA
HOUSE + HOME
When the pandemic began, DRC was equipped to handle the situation DRC Cleaning Service is the only company in Southeast Michigan to offer the HALO fogging system
D
uring these uncertain times, there is still a constant when it comes to quality cleaning. There may have never been a better time to have a trusted cleaning service than in 2020. For the last eight decades, people across Southeast Michigan have trusted DRC Cleaning Solutions for all of their commercial and residential needs. In 1940, Jerry Jankowski began Down River Cleaning as a window cleaning company. When Jerry’s son Robert Sr. became involved, the business expanded to include janitorial services, and in 2010, Robert Sr.’s children, Bob Jr., Randy, and Robin, expanded the company to conduct emergency restoration services. Most recently, the fourth-generation has come aboard, looking to further improve DRC’s overall service. While Parker Jankowski (one of Robert Sr.’s twelve grandchildren) has been involved with the family company for many years, after graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in business management, he’s ready to contribute his own experience. “Parker is going to take us to that next level,” says Robin Jankowski-DeDecker, DRC Cleaning Solutions Vice President. Since beginning work full-time, some of Parker’s contributions include launching DRC’s social media pages, various marketing initiatives, and adding office technology that will help improve service across the board.
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One of the great things about working with a family-owned business is their commitment to their community. DRC’s glowing online reviews as well as their healthy customer retention records, some being customers for over 60 years, proves their reputation of providing the highest quality of service. When the pandemic began, DRC was equipped to handle the situation. Outside of using the usual high-grade disinfectants, DRC is the only company in Southeast Michigan to use the HALO fogging systems. These HALO foggers emit a mist of Silver Nitrate (AGNO3) and high-volume hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into the air, disinfecting even the hardest to reach surfaces without leaving any residuals behind. “Using this process, we have enabled many of our essential clients to remain in operation,” says Bob Jr. Disinfecting services have been performed in both residential and commercial settings such as; corporate offices, medical facilities, municipal buildings, chemical plants, and pharmaceutical manufacturers. Additional services offered by DRC include carpet cleaning, window washing, pressure washing, biohazard cleaning, restoration for fire, mold, or water damage and more. All services are competitively priced. If residential or commercial cleaning seems unessential, 2020 has certainly proved otherwise. As Parker explains, “A lot of people don’t recognize the value behind cleaning services, but it’s something that needs to be done to ensure a clean and safe environment.” For over 80 years, DRC Cleaning Solutions has been committed to doing the job people don’t want to do themselves and doing it right.
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For more info about DRC Cleaning Solutions, call 888-379-6690, visit DRCCleaningSolutions.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram: @DRC_CleaningSolutions
There may have never been a better time to have a trusted cleaning service than in 2020
HOUSE + HOME
expert
ADVICE EDIT JACKI KILBRIDE
PHOTOS JANE FIJAL
As temperatures continue to rise, many businesses are preparing to turn on their air conditioning units. And while it’s easy to take for granted that your building’s AC kicks on at the push of a button, this may not always be the case. Expert Heating and Cooling suggests being proactive vs. reactive to save both time and money for your business. Expert Heating and Cooling offers a wide array of both residential and commercial heating and cooling services. They even have an emergency line, in case your heating or cooling issue occurs outside of standard business hours. From commercial add and replacement, new construction, and emergency service, the staff at Expert Heating and Cooling are well-versed in it all. But what if you would rather avoid an emergency in the first place? Expert Heating and Cooling has you covered there, too. Both owner Mark Angellotti, and Alyssa Angellotti, Expert’s Sales and Marketing Manager, stressed the importance of regular maintenance for your building’s heating and cooling systems, just as you would do with your vehicle or home. “Typically we do maintenance once in the heating season and once in the cooling season,” Mr. Angellotti said, although he and Ms. Angellotti also noted that certain HVAC systems may even require a more rigorous maintenance schedule. The staff at Expert Heating and Cooling can work with you to determine the best schedule for your system’s unique needs.
They can also help you determine if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. “It’s important that you don’t run your system to the point of failure,” said Mr. Angellotti. “It’s better to look into the possibility of replacement prior to the system dying.” The knowledgeable staff at Expert Heating and Cooling are also happy to help with new, pandemicrelated concerns that many business owners have. “We are working with our customers on an individual basis to determine how much outside air is being brought into their building,” said Mr. Angellotti. “The best solution to indoor air quality is more outside air.” Additionally, Expert’s staff are also helping customers choose the best air purification products on the market. Although there are only a few Covid-tested air purifiers out there, the ones that exist have been generally wellreceived by customers. And not only will an Expert staff member help you select the best unit for your business, but they also handle the installation. Expert Heating and Cooling’s long-standing reputation for honesty and integrity, in addition to their years of experience, make them an obvious choice for your company’s HVAC needs, whether it’s emergency service, maintenance, installation and removal, or air filtration. They are located in Taylor and serve the entire Southeast Michigan area.
“We are working with our customers on an individual basis to determine how much outside air is being brought into their building”
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For additional information from the experts at Experts Heating & Cooling, please call 844-EXPERT-1 or visit expertheatcool.com
‘The best solution for HVAC issues is to be proactive vs. reactive’
HOUSE + HOME
DECKED OUT
Mans Lumber & Millwork features Trex composite decking, premium lumber and moulding, kitchen and bathroom design EDIT LEXI MENTZEL
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he family-owned and operated Mans Lumber and Millwork opened in 1900. Today, they have locations in Trenton, Canton, Birmingham, and Ann Arbor and surrounding communities. While they offer household remodeling services, such as kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and flooring, they also offer Trex composite decking. Composite decking means that the wood will not scratch, twist, or fade over time. With Trex, there is no need to constantly stain it every year. The composite deck boards are low-maintenance and high-performance, so you can enjoy your Trex deck rather than spending countless hours on upkeep every year on a wooden deck. Besides, Trex composite decks are made of 95% recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood, sawdust, and plastic film. Trex decks are fade and stain resistant, termite resistant, splinter-free, and mold and mildew resistant.
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Trex composite decking will not warp, rot, crack, or split - and is easy to clean with just soap and water With the largest in-stock selection of Trex products in the state of Michigan, Mans Lumber is the best place to purchase a dream deck. Also, Mans Lumber works with the top Trex installers to build and install the deck perfectly at your home. Trex is available in 20 deck colors, ranging from deep auburn to light brown, dark brown to a light gray, and even a dark gray. Besides decks, Mans Lumber also sells Trex’s deck accessories, like outdoor lighting and both composite and aluminum railing. The Trex railings come in six different colors, ranging from black to white, gray to tan, and brown. With the pandemic, everyone wants to be outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. Having a deck makes that easier, whether you want a personal escape or a place to host a small dinner party for friends or family.
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For more information on Trex composite decking offered by Mans Lumber & Millwork, please visit manslumber.com/decking
GAP Realty: Alex Pandoff Alisha Sulla Realtor® 313-588-0121 alishasulla@gmail.com
Cathy Tschirhart Realtor® 734-516-6508 ctschirhart@mi.rr.com
Rene Louis Realtor® 313-215-6171 rablou2@comcast.net
Laura Davis Realtor® 734-558-9414 Soldbylauradavis@gmail.com
Lori Harrington Realtor® 734-341-5572 gapagent@gmail.com
Paul Hrivnak Realtor® 734-654-9079 paul_hrivnak@hotmail.com
Sherry Fraczek Realtor® 734-678-7196 sherry4hus@comcast.net
Tony Holguin Realtor® 734-686-5958 tonyholguin10@gmail.com
T urn Key:
Owner/Broker 734-231-3672 alex@athomedownriver.com
Alison Reedy Realtor 734-363-0765 alisonreedy4@gmail.com
Craig Jerore Realtor® 313-671-8845 realtorcraigjerore@gmail.com
Jan Gaddis-Linne Associate Broker 734-216-2219 janinegk@email.com
Lisa Beaudrie Realtor® 734-512-7965 lisabsoldmine@gmail.com
Lynette A. Houser Realtor® 734-934-9899 Houserlynette@gmail.com
Rey Balmaceda Realtor® 734-716-7464 reybjr@yahoo.com
Sonya Thomas Realtor® 313-207-4272 sonyathomas012@gmail.com
Ed Fraczek
Brooke Villalba Realtor® 734-686-7017 brookevillalba@yahoo.com
Bruce Metzger Realtor® 734-925-1672 housemanbruce@yahoo.com
Fadi Zarka Realtor® 313-657-9564 fdzarka@gmail.com
John Brannon Realtor® 734-676-9121 john@brannons.com
Lisa Kinney Realtor® 734-765-4252 lisasthekey@gmail.com
Mary Rosecrans Realtor® 734-771-7202 maryrosecrans@yahoo.com
Suzie Chesney Realtor® 734-775-9933 Suziechesney1@gmail.com
Tim O’Neill Realtor® 313-363-9221 bigtim18@hotmail.com
Realtor® 734 657 3251 1hockeydad@comcast.net
Samuel Cummings
Amy Sexsmith
Bobbie Farber
V.P., Director of Operations 734-250-7173 scummings@turnkeytitleagency.com
Processer 734-250-7248 asexsmith@turnkeytitleagency.com
Senior Account Executive 734-772-3714 bfarber@turnkeytitleagency.com
NOT PICTURED: Addison Holguin, Brandon Kappeler, Brandon Nichols, Brian Louis, Carrielynn Parker, Don Fecay, Donna Colley-Andrews, Frank Kopczynski, Jason Bryant, Jeanette McComb, John Gonzalez, John Lopez, Keith Balcom, Kelly Holguin, Lauren Tillery, Linda Kaiser, Lisa Bryson, Sonya Thomas, Marlene Nauts, Mike Boyar, Nathan Hall, Princess King, Renata Rae Ballas, Ruby Carswell, and Kimberly Hixson.
Get Your Move On! BUYING - SELLING • Residential • Commercial • Vacant Land • New Construction
Call for a FREE home evaluation! Alex Pandoff, Owner/Broker Direct: 734-231-3672
734-772-5055 or 855-772-5055 12170 FORT ST., SOUTHGATE | www.GAPRealtyMichigan.com
Introducing: Downriver’s newest Title Agency! TurnKeyTitleAgency.com | 734-250-7173
It ’s the sign you’re looking for! 2232 Eureka Rd., Wyandotte
734-284-8888 2736 Chelsea St., Trenton
734-479-6000 Residential • Commercial • Certified HUD Broker
Jerry Miller, Broker/Owner Raychel Miller • Brooke Anderson • Nancy Burczycki Alice Burton • Jeff Comer • Fred Decaminada • Sharon Elsesser Wayne Flaishans • Lorrie Hart • Ann Hatley • Ray Laurin • Tim Loeckner Jimmy Martin • Jason Ptak • Sheryl Randazzo • Jody Roberts • Joan Wanat Dennis Barrow • Beth Napier • Jamie Rutkowski • Mike Bardoni Kathryn Wilson • Matthew Burton • Greg Vella • Greg Hunter Tom Muller • Marisa Maniaci
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Downriver
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Our feature section highlights local Real Estate, Realtors, and Broker Agents whom help with finding our dream home.
Our 2021 Realtor® Guide featuring TOP REALTORS® in the Downriver region is especially important to us during the challenging time our area has been experiencing recently.
2021 Realtor Guide
®
Finding your dream home starts with finding the right realtor/real estate team EDIT SUNDRA HILSINGER
A
nyone who has bought or sold a home knows the value of a good realtor. Both novices and those seasoned in real estate can benefit from the guidance and partnership of an expert who knows all the ins and outs of the market. Considering that purchasing a home is one of the biggest transactions someone will make in their life you’ll rely rather heavily on an agent who will work with you to make that purchase. Some key traits to look for is someone passionate about the real estate market is a good communicator and truly cares about you and your overall experience. If you’ve tried asking your friends for recommendations or searched endlessly online for agents with the magic number of positive reviews and still feel like the selection is too random there is another option. In this section we’ve highlighted some of the most highly rated real estate agents Downriver. These agents are as familiar with the area as they are with the real estate process. We invite you to read a little about each one to find out what makes them stand out helping you make an informed decision about the person who will take you from the beginning to end of the entire process. n June/July 2021
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Downriver ❭❭ MAG.COM
Top Realtors
Real Estate
Facts column Buying a home during a pandemic? Here’s what you need to know…
Deanna Coleman - 2021 President Southeastern Border Assoc. of REALTORS®
W
hile the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed real estate transactions for some people, housing markets in many areas of the country are showing a strength and resiliency unimaged earlier this spring. It’s critical to understand the pandemic’s impact on real estate, from simply touring a home to the ability to close transactions. “Whether you are new to homeownership or have been a homeowner for years, this is an unprecedented time. We want to ensure that during this pandemic, we can provide essential tips from REALTORS® for buyers and sellers so they have a safe and hassle-free experience,” said Deanna Coleman, 2021 President of the Southeastern Border Assoc. of REALTORS®
What buyers need to know… Home tours will look a little different – Where in-person showings are still offered, potential buyers can expect quicker tours and may be asked to take extra precautions, such as removing shoes, using hand sanitizer and refraining from touching items in the home. Many sellers have offered virtual tours of their homes through pre-recorded videos or live video streams. In fact, according to a recent NAR survey on the pandemic’s impact on real estate, three in five REALTORS® said they are guiding buyers through virtual home tours. D 32
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Interest rates are low – While new social distancing measures change how buyers view potential homes, interest rates are near all-time lows and home prices are holding steady. As more people file for unemployment, however, mortgage lenders may tighten lending standards, subsequently driving up rates – or delayed demand could push rates down further. Potential buyers can prepare for homeownership by understanding their budget, building a good credit history, and getting prequalified for a mortgage. Don’t expect a discount – Nationally, home prices are holding steady, with the majority the same or higher from one year ago, according to NAR. In fact, the median existinghome price for all housing types was $310,600 in August 2020 – up 11.4% from August 2019 – and marked 102 straight months of yearover-year price gains as the number of homes sold hit the highest level since December 2006. Expect Delays – Those terminating a lease should leave some wiggle room, even an extra month or two, between moving out of a rental and into a new home in case of an unexpected delay. Hiring moving crews may prove challenging, so buyers should give movers as much notice as possible ahead of their scheduled move. n For more information about the Southeastern Border Assoc. of REALTORS® visit sebrealtors.com
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PURE ELEGANCE! 20428 East River Rd., Grosse Ile The great curb appeal is just the beginning! The minute you enter you are greeted with such inviting warmth and beauty that you won't want to leave! The gracious foyer, leads to the fantastic kitchen that will make cooking a pleasure, enjoy the meal in the large dining area off the kitchen or for more formal occasions, the dining room. Living room hosts a lovely fireplace & library all with beautiful view of the river. A Master Suite screams luxury with fireplace and beautiful bathroom, 1st floor laundry rounds out the main level. The floating staircase takes you to a loft area, 3 large bedrooms, full bath and the "in-laws quarters" which also has a private staircase. Beautifully finished basement is complete with the 3rd fireplace, bathroom, and an abundance of storage. Oversized attached 3 car garage. There's more! At the back of the property is a 4 bay outbuilding with a huge loft/ office; the works at the waterfront, seawall, docks, hoists, electricity, water. IMMACULATE!
S. Brooke MacNee ABR, GRI, Broker/Owner 9105 Macomb St., Ste A Grosse Ile, MI 48138 Cell: 734-558-6306 E-mail: brooke@mbamail.com
www.mbarealty.com Real estate agents affiliated with MBA Realty Group, Inc. are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of MBA Realty Group, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity. MBA Realty Group, Inc. makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy therof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. All dimensions provided are approximate. To obtain exact dimensions, MBA Realty advises you to hire a qualified architect or engineer.
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Downriver ❭❭ MAG.COM
Top Realtors
Alex Pandoff, Owner/Broker 12170 Fort St., Southgate | 734-772-5055 | alex@athomedownriver.com
Alex Pandoff, Owner/Broker - GAP Realty Group
The housing market is difficult for many currently looking to buy a home. However, Alex Pandoff and the GAP Realty Group team offer a simple piece of advice for those needing to make their offer stand out. “When you’re putting in an offer, you have to think like a seller,” Pandoff said. “Everyone is going above asking price or offering acceleration clauses. You have to think about what you’d want from a buyer when making your offer.”
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Pandoff has experience in that field. Before marriage, he would move every couple of years. However, after tying the knot, he decided he needed stability but was still interested in seeing the latest and greatest when it came to houses and how people kept them updated. That interest drove him to get his real estate license in 2005. Pandoff has been running GAP Realty since 2015, celebrating five years of business in December 2020.
GAP was started after Pandoff spent more than three years running a local branch of another real estate company. What Pandoff saw while running that branch was a system that wasn’t designed to create success for all involved. “I was ready to break out and run with my own ideas, instead of following the lead of someone else,” Pandoff said. “Our payment structure enables our agents to concentrate on their career as a REALTOR® vs. working multiple jobs,” Pandoff continued. “This helps make everyone on the team successful.” That focus has paid off. In 2020, GAP set a new record in sales and is continuing to grow. Pandoff is looking for additional agents to grow his team and even offers to help those interested in real estate figure out where to take the class. Additionally, the GAP team offers to mentor new realtors and help them break into the field. Those interested in real estate or looking for a realtor are invited to meet Pandoff and the GAP team in person at their office during the Fort Street cruise the last weekend in June at 12170 Fort Street in Southgate for their Fort Street Cruise Party. n
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Top Realtors ❬❬
Downriver
MAG.COM
S. Brooke MacNee, Broker/Owner 9105 Macomb St., Grosse Ile | 734-671-6611 | brooke@mbamail.com
S. Brooke MacNee, Broker/Owner - MBA Realty Group
IT’S ALL ABOUT PEOPLE,” says Broker/Owner S. Brooke MacNee, whose MBA Realty Group ranks #1 in Grosse Ile sales volume. Brooke says “Buying and selling real estate is an emotional process as it is a family’s home where they eat, sleep, laugh, cry, grow and live their life together. Because it’s also one of the most significant invest-
Photo - Jessica Laine Photography
fore you know it, we are out with their kids looking for their new home to raise a family. It’s crazy how time flies.” Our agents’ compassion and desire to make meaningful connections extends beyond their interactions with clients. We strive to build strong relationships with our fellow real estate professionals, as well as with attorneys, contractors and all the individuals who play crucial roles in getting a deal done from start to finish. “Having a network of people to refer or recommend to clients, friends and family is a huge benefit and a service beyond just selling real estate,” Brooke said. “You don’t buy or sell your home every day,” she says. “It is our job to make the real estate process look easy.” MBA Realty Group is a boutique independent office with eight outstanding agents with in depth knowledge of the market. “We are a small group, and although we work individually in sales, we are a team that works together to meet the needs of our clients,” said Brooke. n
ments a person makes, listening, hearing, and understanding the needs and expectations of clients is an absolute necessity.” “The most rewarding part of our business is building long-term relationships,” Brooke, a lifelong island resident, said. “Our clients often become friends for life. We watch their young families grow, and be-
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Downriver ❭❭ MAG.COM
Top Realtors
Jason Czarnik, Broker/Owner 8420 Macomb St., Grosse Ile | 734-671-2280 | czarnikj1@hotmail.com
Jason Czarnik, Owner/Broker - Island Realty
If 2020 was a test of businesses ingenuity and dedication, Grosse Ile real estate agency Island Realty passed with flying colors. “We have such a great team of sales agents, and I am proud that the majority of them were able to achieve their personal records for sales units and volume in 2020,” says Island Realty Broker and Owner Jason Czarnik. “Watching them succeed is the best part of my job.” After working in sales for nearly ten years, Jason taught in the Southgate School District until being laid
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off in 2013. It was then that he decided to pursue a childhood interest in real estate and make what he called the right career move, joining Island Realty as a sales agent. After earning his broker’s license in 2018, Jason purchased the business with his wife Cindy in 2019. Despite the challenges 2020 wrought, Jason says that four of his agents reached 100% on their sales commission scale, three more than the previous year. “Overall, it was a fabulous year to be in real estate, and we’ve been very fortunate to be a part
of it,” says Jason. With this success, Island Realty has also been sure to give back, donating a portion of their closed sales commission each quarter. This is in addition to the numerous sponsorship donations they made throughout the year, including contributing to the Rock CF Foundation in March and Mimi’s Mission in September. 2020 also marks the first year Island Realty presented their Grosse Ile High School scholarship. To accommodate for COVID-19 restrictions, Jason says that creating remote listing and buying programs was instrumental in meeting client’s needs. They also did not let training fall by the wayside, instead moving to Zoom meetings and training sessions. The pandemic aside, the closing of the Wayne County Bridge necessitated the addition of office space in Wyandotte that will ease the cost and time needed for off-island clients and sales agents to get to the Grosse Ile office. Looking to the future, Jason says, “Our mission statement is ‘To build and maintain lasting relationships with our clients and to successfully market our real estate services with the utmost integrity and professionalism while continuously striving to be the best.’” n
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Top Realtors ❬❬
Downriver
MAG.COM
Kim Draper, Realtor ® 8420 Macomb St., Grosse Ile | 734-249-3290 | kimdraperhomes@gmail.com
in every sale. She understands the life impact of buying and selling a home, and plays a role in all aspects of the process for her clients, giving validity to her tagline, “The Difference is in the Details”. Kim attributes a large portion of her 2020 success to referrals, “I’m constantly working to demonstrate that I’m the one who will go the extra mile for my clients. While I thrive on working hard and earning business through my knowledge of the market, it’s a wonderful feeling to have past clients refer me to someone close to them. The act of referral is a true testament to my work and solidifies that what I’m doing to help people is really working.” Kim brings a fresh perspective utilizing new methods of communication to market homes and is always looking for the next unique idea to give her listings an advantage. She has established a portfolio of contacts to help her with her efforts including contractors that assist her clients well after the sale is finalized. Kim continuously seeks ways to personally improve, and in a short amount of time, she has positioned herself as a true expert in the industry. n
Kim Draper, Realtor® - Island Realty
As Grosse Ile’s rising real estate professional, Kim Draper closed out her second full year as an agent nearly doubling her own 2019 sales record
and earning top producer for the second year in a row. Her drive continues to motivate her towards success and her dedication is apparent
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Top Realtors
Lisa Sobell, Assoc. Broker & Realtor ® 734-934-6148 | lisa@realestateone.com | lisasobell.com Lisa made a career change from education to real estate in 2015. Retiring early from teaching was always a goal of hers, and once her real estate career was set up in 2017, she made the move and has never looked back. By 2018, Lisa had established a great book of business as a Realtor® and was honored with the Real Estate One President’s Circle of Excellence Award that year. “While winning awards is fun, it’s the work I do that keeps me motivated,” Lisa says. “Seeing the relief and joy of my clients as they sell their beloved family home,
and the excitement of my new buyers when they get the keys to their dream home, is what makes this career so rewarding.” Lisa has earned her SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation through the National Association of Realtors®. n
Rose Koval, Realtor ® 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile | 734-671-3020 | rose.koval@century21.com Rose Koval - with over 30 years’ experience, and having been with Century 21 Riverpointe on Grosse Ile since starting her career in real estate - recently received the CENTURION 21 honor for being a top producing CENTURION winner in the global Century 21 System for 21 or more years. E. Ann Redfield, Broker/Owner at Century 21 Riverpointe, noted Rose’s ability to go ‘above and beyond’ by providing personalized, unique moments to consumers throughout the real estate experience.
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“I value and appreciate my clients and welcome the opportunity to make a difference in their lives and in the overall community,” says Rose. “I’m there to help my clients understand the process, interpret complex information, anticipate and solve problems and ultimately create a seamless real estate experience.” n
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Top Realtors ❬❬
Downriver
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E. Ann Redfield, Broker/Owner 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile | 734-671-3020 | eann.redfield@century21.com
(Left to right): Century 21 Riverpointe - Trista Cortis-Redfield, Tashia Redfield-McEady, E. Ann Redfield
It is our mission at Century 21 Riverpointe to use our knowledge, caring and integrity to help you achieve all of your real estate dreams and goals. We have come a long way since our office first opened in 1984. Over the past 37 years, we have moved from being your real estate agents to being your trusted real estate advisors, using technology, experience and sincerity to turn your transaction into an extraordinary experience to be celebrated every step of the way. We know that buying a home is often the biggest investment that a
person will make in their lifetime, and whether you are buying or selling property, the anxiety during the process can seem consuming. Our aim is to relieve as much stress as possible by being your negotiator, educator, advocate and partner through the entire process, from helping you prepare your home (or your credit report) to referring you to movers and assisting you with utility company transfers. Though it may seem overwhelming to you, we have done this over 12,000 times and we love using our
experience and expertise to ease your mind. Call us today to talk about your real estate dreams and goals. We would be honored to help you fulfill them. n
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Downriver ❭❭ MAG.COM
Top Realtors
Diane Koralewski
Barbara J. Biskner
734 552-5284 | dianektherealtor@gmail.com
734-771-6950 | barbara@barbarabiskner.com
For over 35 years Diane Koralewski of Premiere Realty Group has been assisting people find the home of their dreams, to raise their families, or live out their golden years. “Communication is the key to success,” says Diane. “Whether buying or selling, I will be responsive, accessible and knowledgeable.” Today’s market is quick and fast moving, be prepared - and call Diane “K”. n
Barbara has lived in Downriver for most of her life, and has been in the Real Estate business for more than 20 years. Most of Barbara’s business is from referrals by her past clients “Which is the highest compliment a Realtor receives,” she says. “It’s always rewarding when past clients call you to sell their home when they are ready to purchase again.” “Our home is our refuge, and hopefully our favorite place to be,” says Barbara. “And with the pandemic our homes must fill even greater roles than ever before. They must serve as classrooms, offices, conference rooms, and play spaces.” “My biggest advice to buyers has always been, ‘Don’t settle, this is not a pair of blue jeans, it must be a good fit,’” Barbara says. “A home must be suit the buyer’s needs and lifestyle.” Barbara notes that “It’s my job as a Realtor® to be resourceful and patient, and to educate and prepare my clients to assure a smooth transaction.” Always meeting new people, working with past clients, making new friends along the way, staying in contact, is truly rewarding to Barbara. “I love to assist folks purchasing a home, I can’t imagine having any other job!” n
Deanna Barrett 734-497-9591 | deanna.synergy@gmail.com Deanna Barrett of Synergy Realty Group began her career in 1994 selling new construction homes in the Chicago area. She returned to Real Estate in 2011. Deanna has lived in 8 different communities, providing her with a unique knowledge of the Downriver area. “I am continually taking classes throughout the year to better serve my clients - both buyers and sellers,” says Deanna. n
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Top Realtors
Penny Tarwacki, Broker/Owner 3217 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte | 734-676-4663 | penny_tarwacki@yahoo.com
contractor business, we don’t qualify for small business loans. My bills stayed the same, my agents couldn’t come to the office, and we had 12 weeks of not being able to have faceto-face contact with customers.” She adds that she is thankful for Michigan REALTORS® hard work with Governor Whitmer in developing a plan to allow a safe return to work in May. “Now the market is really strong,” Penny says. “Houses are selling for really high prices. Wyandotte is up about around 14%, value-wise, from last year.” As adjustments continue to be made and struggles ensue, one thing that Penny is grateful for is how the local community is filled with people who support each other. It’s why Wyandotte remains a good place to do business!” n Penny Tarwacki, Broker/Owner - New Dimensions Realty
The Wyandotte business landscape has undergone dramatic changes over the past year. For example, establishments like The Vault on First, which is held its grand opening in March, is a new addition to the neighborhood. Meanwhile, other local businesses are either struggling or shutting down entirely due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Still others are determined to persevere despite the challenges New Dimensions Realty is one of those businesses.
New Dimensions Realty is a young business having been open for six years. However, the agency’s broker/owner, Penny Tarwacki, has 33 years of real estate experience, and the rest of New Dimension’s agents have a combined 75 years’ of experience. Unfortunately, being forced to shut down last year didn’t help their record of growth. “We’re still recovering,” Penny says. “Being as we are an independent
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