Lynn's Blog - Big Rapids, MI Real Estate & Surrounding Mecosta County Homes for Sale - Greenridge Realty Oakmont

'Tis The Season... Seller Decorating for the Holidays

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:47:13 -0600

I know it's early to be thinking about holiday decorating, but... the outdoor lights are already starting to appear!

While the exterior landscaping may be looking a little drab until the white fluffy stuff sticks around,
your interior homescape can be more inviting and homey than ever.

If your home is for sale in November and December, it could be looking it's best!

Remember, Sellers, as you decorate:

Don't overdo it! (inside OR out)

If you are putting up a tree, make sure it enhances the room without overtaking it.

You are selling space... and a smaller-than-usual holiday tree inside may help to sell your home.

Have no more than 3 or 4 decorated areas in the main living space.

If you have a tree, that counts as one.
A table centerpiece with candles is nice.
A decorated mantel is good.
A simple wreath on the door or a wall

Take a new look at those treasured pieces. Are they in good shape? If not, they are better left in the box. Everything a buyer sees in your home tells them how much you care about the maintenance of your home. Be sure everything looks fresh -especially greenery and candles.

Keep the miscellaneous odds and ends of decorations in the storage room, (especially anything in less-than-excellent condition). You want potential buyers to focus on the home, not the doo-dads in every nook & cranny.

If you must decorate the bathrooms and bedrooms, One or two small items will do - per room.

Refrain from having every surface covered with candles, pillows, throws and knick-knacks and pictures on the wall of a holiday theme, whether it be Christmas, Hanukah, or Kwanza.

Likewise, refrain from huge displays of villages, train sets, santa or snowmen collections, etc.

I know it will be hard to cut back, so keep in mind how wonderful it will be displaying all of your neat stuff in your new home next year!

This goes for the exterior as well - a little goes a long way. While you may enjoy tens of thousands of lights and other displays, to a potential buyer it may look like a legacy of work they need to compete with if they purchase your home - and they may not want to!

Less is more!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

101 S. Bronson, Big Rapids, MI 49307, Greenridge Realty Oakmont

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:49:31 -0600

This home has newer everything! Roof, insulation, windows, doors, laminate flooring in kitchen, carpeting, appliances - including washer and dryer, fresh paint, kitchen cabinets & counter. Less than two miles to Ferris State University, and just within the City of Big Rapids for municipal water, sewer & natural gas. Low utility costs, with trash pickup included in water bill! Check out the video (under 4 minutes) and there is also a link below it to go to the listing details. Just click on the link!

Click Here For Listing Details: 101 S. Bronson, Big Rapids, MI 49307

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Mecosta County is a great place for Snowmobiles...

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:02:04 -0600

Have you noticed the Snowmobile signs in Mecosta County?

Mecosta County, Michigan, is a very snowmobile-friendly county! If you are looking for a cottage or cabin for your family recreation activities, this is a great place to be.

Many main roads in this county even have a paved shoulder for an extra safety width. This is a great time to buy that get-a-way with a few acres, and many properties adjoin or are near acres and acres (sometimes hundreds!) of Federal and State land. Great hunting, boating, fishing and golfing in Mecosta County as well as other recreational activities including fantastic Rails-to-Trails pathways! Come and take a closer look - where the north begins!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Homebuyer Tax Credit extension just passed the House, 2:20 pm November 5, 2009

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:24:56 -0600

Yay! The Senate amended version of the Homebuyer tax credit bill HR 3548 now has passed the US House - they are still voting as I post this, but there is already a 2/3 majority needed to pass it.

It will go to the President's desk for signature, and may be signed into law yet this week!

Update final vote tally:

Final vote: 403 yea, nay 12

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Anticipation grows as buyers in Michigan await Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension - now passed by US Senate November 4, 2009

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:17:01 -0600

Tax Credit will no longer just for 1st time homebuyers when extension is signed into law.

Excited buyers are looking forward to the extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit,

just passed by the US Senate today, with 98 Yeas, 0 Nays, 2 not voting.

Now the bill goes back to the US House of Representatives for a vote, which should go quickly, and then on to the President for signature.

Not only is the current tax credit being extended, but homeowners who lived in their principal residence (meaning lived there most of each year) for five consecutive years of the last eight years, may qualify for the new part of the credit, up to $6500.

This bill could possibly be signed into law yet this week.

It's a great time to buy a home in Michigan!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Homebuyer Tax Credit extension is not yet passed, as of November 3, 2009

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:51:44 -0600

The Homebuyer Tax Credit has still not passed the Senate. The "cloture" vote that was taken yesterday in the US Senate and passed, was to end debate on the Senate version, and bring it to a vote within 30 hours. Senate amendment 2712 is a replacement in the form of an "amendment", as a substitute for the original House-introduced bill H.R. 3548.

The Senate may do another cloture vote tonight, giving them another 30 hours before vote. After it is passed in the Senate, the House will then have to vote on it, as it is being completely substituted for the original House-originated bill. Only then the President signs it into law.

It is pretty comical reading the Senate Journal sometimes. Yesterday, there were amendment after amendment introduced to change the effective date, starting with seven days after enactment, no six, no five, no four, no three, no two, no... one day after enactment. I'm not kidding.

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Second Annual Downtown Big Rapids Fall Festival Oct. 30 & 31, 2009

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 18:20:50 -0500

Second Annual Downtown Big Rapids Fall Festival Oct. 30 & 31, 2009

Come join in the fun!

Scarecrow competition and fall displays in the storefront windows both days

Friday Oct. 30th, 6-8 pm

Blues band live in front of JC Penney on Michigan St. - Key West Perma Frost

Crossroads Cougar Fall Carnival benefiting student enrichment programs

also in the JC Penney block. 25 cents per ticket or $10 for 50 tickets

Games, Inflatable Play Area, Petting Zoo, Concessions and more!

(If Bad weather carnival will be held inside Crossroads Charter Academy)

Midnight Madness Sale

Saturday, Oct. 31st:

9:30 am Parade Line-up in front of the movie theatre (first 200 participants in parade receive a free kids ticket to FSU Football game 2pm afternoon of the 31st)

10am Parade - Costumes, Pets & Tractors (incl. lawn tractors)

Many other free happenings until afternoon, including:

11am to 1pm- Kids painting fun in Artworks bldg.;

Games & candy distribution in front of Big Rapids Furniture

Inflatables by the Old Pioneer Store (free popcorn)

9am - noon- Giant 500 lb. pumpkin in Pocket Park - carving demonstration

Free cider & donuts at Chemical Bank

11am to noon- Enter your pumpkin recipe at Blue Cow Cafe - Judging & auction of entries at noon

Half time at the FSU game - Children's costume parade (also inflatables at the field)

(There is an admission fee to get into the FSU game)

Be sure to visit the OLD JAIL HAUNTED HOUSE too!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Should I list my Big Rapids home in the fall?

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 12:42:25 -0500

Many people wonder if this is a 'good time' to list their home for sale.

It can be... if your home is priced to sell.

Typically, the overall number of homes that sell in the fall and winter months in Michigan are lower than spring & summer volume, but there are always people who must move at any time of the year.

In Big Rapids especially, there are people looking to relocate due to job transfers which can occur at any time of the year.

Sellers listing at this time of the year need to pay special attention to curb appeal, as fallen leaves and dying foilage can detract in a hurry. Cut back any dead foilage and keep it as neat as possible. A good exterior cleaning can sometimes do wonders as well to make your home more appealing.

Interest rates are still good, which helps keep buyers looking at this time of the year, so go ahead and list if you are ready to price it right... always the key to getting your home sold!

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Buyers: Looking for a great deal under $30,000?

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 10:39:52 -0500

Many buyers search the internet with the intention of getting a fantastic deal under $30,000. There are some great deals out there. There are also a lot of homes in this price range that really need a bulldozer!

If you are seriously thinking of pursuing a home in this price range:

Number 1: You must be ready to buy the property when it comes on the market. If you are a cash buyer, you will have an edge. Many Michigan properties have defects (most common- damage due to freezing - broken pipes, damaged water heaters, broken well pumps, water tanks, etc.)

Many foreclosure sellers will not accept an offer that involves financing. If you are financing, you must be pre-qualified by your lender, and have a letter that says so. If you are paying cash, you need a letter from your bank or credit union stating that you have enough funds in your account to cover the offer.

2: You must have a Realtor working for you who is really committed to helping you find a home in this price range. Many simply will not put a dilligent effort into finding these homes, as the seller commission to an agent could amount to less than $300. Make sure that you sign a buyer agency agreement that gives your agent an agreed upon minimum commission, so they are working for You. The best deals are literally gone within hours of listing, as investors have agents looking for these properties daily.

3: You must be ready to go see the property as soon as it is listed. New HUD properties are listed every Friday in Michigan.

4: If you really want a property, make your best offer immediately. You will not get a new listing for half of the listed price.

5: Request all information available on the property. Your buyer's agent can give you the known tax information, existing well info, survey, plat maps, deed copy, aerial photo, etc. that can help you with your decision-making process.

6: If you are thinking of buying a property to rent, especially multi-family unit properties in a city with rental regulations - do your homework first! For example, the city of Grand Rapids has many rules for landlords, and many fines if you do not comply. Contact the city housing department in your area to access rental ordinances.

7: When buying a property, check with the local government to see if there are any liens or special assessments from the city, township or county for fines, (common: trash in yard, unmowed lawn, failure to register vacant property) liens, (unpaid water/sewer bills, etc.), unpaid taxes. These amounts can be substantial, and sometimes excluded in adendums from the seller that you must sign before the seller will accept your offer.

8: Be aware that when you make an offer, it is highly likely that a seller will require you to sign several pages of an addenum that may negate most of what is in your original offer, stating that the addendum supercedes the purchase agreement. Know what you are signing! These addendums usually state that you are buying the property AS IS, and the seller is not responsible for anything.

For State of Michigan Landlord Tenant Guidelines & forms, (67 page pdf) click here: http://www.senate.michigan.gov/gop/publications/Tenants%20and%20Landlords.pdf

Caveat emptor "Let the buyer beware"

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Sellers: Before you are ready to sell your home...

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:45:27 -0500

Before you are ready to sell your home, you will need to figure out where all of your excess stuff is going to go. As in... Somewhere Else!

The time to get rid of things is before you list your home for sale, and long before that first buyer appears for a showing.

It just doesn't work to say, "We're going to have a yard sale next month". Many buyers, and the Realtors showing your home will store that first impression forever.

Clutter, of course must go, yet many sellers don't realize that overloaded closets and shelves are cluttered! Additionally, those sentimental heirlooms that take up the space that you are trying to sell must go somewhere too!

Take a good look around each room - focusing on one room at a time. Make a plan, write it down, and do it! Things to get rid of, things to store elsewhere, and where that 'elsewhere' might be.

This is not for sissies! It will be hard. But it will be oh-so-rewarding!

http://BigRapidsHomes.Info

http://GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

West Central Michigan (WCAR) Merges MLS with Southwestern Michigan (SWMRIC)

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:25:15 -0500

Buyers and sellers will notice some changes when they search homes for sale and other property listings in Mecosta County, Lake County, Osceola County & Newaygo County.

These four counties make up the geographical area of the West Central Association of Realtors known as WCAR. We have just merged our Multiple Listing Service with SWMRIC (swim-rick), the Southwestern Michigan Regional Information Center.

From a single search site, available through many participating real estate offices and agent's web sites, you can now search listings in the following counties:

Allegan, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Hillsdale, Kalamazoo, Lake, Mason, Manistee, Mecosta, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, Ottawa, St. Joseph, Van Buren, and beyond!

Additionally, the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service will also soon be joining SWMRIC, adding the greater Grand Rapids area!

This is great news for realtors helping you with your searches as well, since we will save time by logging into one main listing server to find properties for you.

Click on this link, and then "Property Search" to try it out! http://www.BigRapidsHomes.Info

or: http://GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

City of Angels musical comedy Thursday, October 30, 2008 - 8pm Williams Auditorium FSU

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:21:05 -0500

Ferris State University Theatre presents the musical comedy "City of Angels", which is not at all like the movie. It is however, about the movie world in the late 1940's. The FSU Theatre production will take place in Williams Auditorium, on State Street in the heart of Big Rapids, Michigan. Great place to see this performance, which promises to be another excellent play by the university players.

"City of Angels" The Musical

FSU Theatre presents the musical "City of Angels", Musical Comedy Book by Larry Gelbart, Music by Cy Coleman, Lyrics by David Zippel.

Los Angeles, the late 1940s: money and the movies beckon like a golden ladder. Screenwriters and cheap private eyes cling to the lower rungs. Blondes shimmer, crooners croon, corruption lurks in every mansion, and just what is an honest buck anyway? It's the world of Cecil B. DeMille and the world of Raymond Chandler.

Date: Thursday, October 30, 2008 - Saturday, November 1, 2008

Time: 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm

Location: Williams Auditorium

Contact: Michael Terry

Group/Organization:FSU Theatre

Email: terrym@ferris.edu

Telephone: 231-591-5600

Visit the Theatre Area Website

www.BigRapidsHomes.Info www.greenridge.com/LynnAfton

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Come to the Fall Festival - Downtown Big Rapids, Michigan October 24th & 25th, 2008 (Friday & Saturday)

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:36:59 -0500

Come to the Fall Festival - Downtown Big Rapids, Michigan October 24th & 25th (Friday & Saturday)

and see the Scarecrow Competition and the Downtown store window decorating competition for fall! JOIN US FOR MANY FUN-FILLED FREE EVENTS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILy!

Featuring Scarecrow Contest throughout downtown, Costume Contest, Kids Games, Family Activities, Giant Pumpkin Carving, Kids & Pets & COSTUMES Parade, Treasure Hunt, Window Decorating Displays Store Competition

(Note: Downtown trick-or-treating for halloween, which is discontinued, is being replaced by Candy Distribution & Games in front of Big Rapids Furniture from 12-3pm Saturday October 25th, see below)

Friday, October 24th:

Treasure Hunt - 6pm - For 250 Downtown Dollar$

Moonlight Madness Sale 6pm to 9pm

saturday October 25^th:

10:30 AM PET & COStume PARade LINE-UP IN FRONT OF bIG rAPIDS CINEMA (SOUTH END OF MICHIgan ST. DOWNTOWN)

11:00 AM PARade STARTS

IMMEDIATELY AFTER PARAde: PUMpkin ROLLING CONTest WILL INCLUDE LOCAL CELBRITIES AND THE FSU LADIES BASKETBALL TEAM. (N. MICHigan ST.)

11AM- 1PM: LIVE REMOTE RADIO BROADCAST BY SUNNY FM

12PM-3PM: CHILDREN'S GAMES & CANDY DISTRIBUTION IN THE PARKING LOT IN FRON OF BIG RAPIDS FURNIture (NORTH END OF MICHIgan ST. DOWNtown)

INFLATIBLES FUN BETWEEN THE BLUE COW CAFE AND THE OLD PIONEER STORE (N. MICHigan ST.)

GIANT 500 POUND PUMpkin CARving DEMONSTRATION AT POCKET PARK BETWEEN CHEMICAL BANK & DAIRY QUEEN.

2PM: MUSIC IN POCKET PARK.

THE SALVATION ARMY IS PROVIDING FREE HOT CHOCOLATE, CIDER & COFFEE

JOIN US FOR MANY FUN-FILLED FREE EVENTS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILy!

EVENT SPONSORS: INFLATIBLES – BERNIE'S DONUTS – THE BLUE COW CAFE – FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTER – BIG RAPIds FURniture

PUMpkin CARving – SOUTHLAND SHOPPING CENTER – SCHUBERG INSURANCE AGENCY

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Blogs button is back, now can we please have SUBSCRIBED then sort PROFESSIONAL without CONSUMER mixed in?

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 19:39:37 -0500

Do you go to 'Blogs' home page and then click on "SUBSCRIBED" view?

Wouldn't it be nice if you could then choose "PROFESSIONAL", so you wouldn't have to sort through all the consumer-intended posts... of those you subscribe to?

It could look like this:

Show:

Channel:

All | Featured | Subscribed

Professional | Consumer | Both

Order:

Most Recent | Most Active | Last Comment

Time:

Today | This Week | This Month | All Time

You could click 'Subscribed', then 'Professional' and not have to see listings, local events, etc. that are posted to the Consumer channel for the blogs you subscribe to.

This will be a great help to those who want to read your AR content, but not Localism posts, etc.

Several people have commented that they have unsubcribed to Rainers who post too much local content in their blogs. With this change, you would have a choice. Right now, the Professional & Consumer buttons on the top bar appear to only sort 'All' posts.

The new addition would also provide the Professional & Consumer sort of 'Featured' posts as well.

What do you think Active Rainers?

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Marvelous Clear-Winged Butterfly

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:44:45 -0500

Talk about transparency! It's all right out there for everyone to see.

Most people have never seen one of these amazing beauties - only about 2" long.

This photo was taken at Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Every year in March and April they have thousands of butterflies hatch. They fly around, sometimes landing on people, or on the many blooming orchids and tropical plants in the giant atrium greenhouse - complete with waterfall.

www.BigRapidsHomes.Info

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Are fragrance 'candles' damaging your walls & ceilings?

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:19:44 -0500

A few years ago, my sister-in-law held a baby shower in her home, and had three glass oil-burning candles lit. Before long, everyone started noticing that we seemed to have grey smudge marks on our faces and arms. We soon figured out that the candles were the source of the soot!

Luckily, the damage to the home was covered by insurance - I believe around $5,000 damage within the few hours time of the candles burning. Everything in the entire home had to be cleaned - even closets full of clothes had been invaded by the oily soot. Walls had to be sealed and repainted.

The reason that I am bringing this up is that I have noticed an increasing number of homes with a grey smoky haze on the walls. In a couple of the homes, it is obvious some kind of candle had been burning on a shelf, with heavy smoke/soot on the ceiling directly above.

A strange common pattern with this soot, is that one of the places it shows up the most is on ceilings in the lines of the ceiling joists.

If you burn any oil candles, lamps, or fragrance candles, check your ceilings. If you see these lines where your ceiling joists are, stop burning the candles before you have more serious damage.

Many candles burn inefficiently and cause soot because of the fragrance oils used. You can avoid this problem by using fragrance 'tarts' with electric melters instead of candles, oil-wicking reed fragrance sticks (non-burning) or other fragrance providers besides candles. Only burn clean-burning candles with no fragrance oils in them to eliminate this problem, and don't use oil-burning lamps or candles.

Also, consider that if oily soot is on your walls, you and your family are also breathing it into your lungs.

For more information: http://chimneykeepers.com/candle_soot.htm

www.BigRapidsHomes.Info

www.Greenridge.com/LynnAfton

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Great Lakes HOMES Compact signed into law

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:01:30 -0500

For ten years the legislators and governors of the eight states in the Great Lakes area have been negotiating the The Great Lakes Compact, limiting withdrawal and re-direction of the Great Lakes fresh water to other areas.

Passed by the legislators of all eight states, (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin), and the US House & Senate, the bill was signed into law Friday by President Bush. Quebec & Ontario, Canada passed similar legislation.

In 1998, an Ontario proposal for shipping 158 million gallons of Lake Superior water per year to Asia precipitated the creation of the pact. For Michigan & other boundary states with companies that bottle water for sale, the jobs are still protected with allowances for withdrawal in containers smaller than 5.7 gallons.

The compact doesn't manage or regulate the lakes, connecting waters, and the St Lawrence River, but requires the Great Lakes states to set up programs within 2 years to manage & conserve water in the ground and in lakes Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior. (Remember the HOMES acronym now?)

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

BBQ Competition & BLUES at Ferris State University - Saturday, September 13, 2008

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:12:46 -0500

BBQ and Blues

The best pre-game party ever to hit Ferris State University!

Enjoy some of the area's finest all-you-can-eat BBQ while listening to a live performance by renowned Grand Rapids blue's artist Big Daddy and the Krewe before the game.

Think your BBQ is the best on the block? Gather a team and compete against other local teams to be crowned "The People's Champion"! Over a thousand dollars in prizes to the winners!

All proceeds will be donated to create scholarships for students demonstrating financial need. For more information, including official rules and an application form, please visit our website. (link below)

Support a great cause while having a ton of fun!

GO BULLDOGS!

$5 for students
$7 for adults
Free for Children 10 and under

Date: Saturday, September 13, 2008

Time: 4:00 PM

Location: Top Taggart Field

Contact: Joe Viviano

Group/Organization:Student Government

Email: JoeViviano@gmail.com

Telephone: 231-349-0644

Click here to obtain an entry form to compete in the BBQ competition!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

New Park & Ride Service - Mecosta & Osceola County Transit

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:45:22 -0500

Check out the new Mecosta & Osceola Transit Authority Park & Ride Service...

Save Gas, save money, save wear & tear on your vehicle! Let someone else do the driving!

Only $1 each way.

For additional information, call MOTA office: 796-4896 E-Mail: motrans@sbcglobal.net

MORNING PICK UP/DROP-OFF LOCATIONS:

5:50 AM Morley Exit 125 Park & Ride Lot - Near US 131 & corner of Jeferson & 200th (east of highway)

6:00 AM Stanwood Exit 131 - 8 Mile Park & Ride Lot - West of US 131

6:15 AM Big Rapids EXit 139 Perry Street & US 131 (Possible drop-offs in Big Rapids area)

6:30 AM 19 Mile exit north of Big Rapids - B & B Gas Station on the corner of 19 Mile & Northland Dr.

6:35 AM Paris Park parking lot

6:45 AM Reed City Drop-offs at different locations

AFTERNOON PICK-UP/DROP-OFF LOCATIONS:

3:15/3:30 PM Reed City pick-up at different locations

3:40 PM Paris Park parking lot

3:50 PM 19 Mile exit north of Big Rapids - B & B Gas Station on the corner of 19 Mile & Northland Dr.

4:00 PM Big Rapids EXit 139 Perry Street & US 131

4:15 PM Stanwood Exit 131 - 8 Mile Park & Ride Lot - West of US 131

4:25 PM Morley Exit 125 Park & Ride Lot - Near US 131 & corner of Jeferson & 200th (east of highway)

For additional information, call MOTA office: 796-4896 Toll-Free: 1-800-228-8028

E-Mail: motrans@sbcglobal.net web site: http://www.motaonline.net/

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE FLEET

MOTA buses are lift equipped to assist any passenger with special mobility needs.

All MOTA staff are trained in Passenger Assistance Techniques to better serve
the customers.

E-Mail: motrans@sbcglobal.net Web site: http://www.motaonline.net/

This information is provided as a public service, and is subject to change at any time without prior notification.

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Reform Michigan Government Now ballot proposal - Update - Being appealed to MI Supreme Court

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:05:42 -0500

Posted here with permission from Doug Merriam, MAR's West Michigan Field Director

Excerpt from August 2008 Field Report -
West Michigan

By: Doug Merriam - West Michigan Field Director

RMGN Update

During the summer months, a very expansive proposal to alter the Michigan Constitution surfaced known as the Reform Michigan Government Now ballot initiative, or RMGN. As you might recall from last month's report, RMGN would place in the Michigan Constitution many things that are popular with voters given their sentiment towards government right now, such as cutting the number of legislators in the State House and State Senate and reducing and limiting the number of departments in the Executive Branch.

However, RMGN also contains provisions that would slant the political playing field in Michigan toward one party while diminishing the voice of a political minority and voters in Michigan's urban cores. This disastrous proposal, which sounds quite appealing from its name, would prove to be harmful for Michigan's homebuyers, sellers, owners, the MAR membership and the citizens of our state.

Last week, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that due to the nature of the proposal being a 'revision' of the entire Constitution (RMGN would make 36 changes to the document) and not an 'amendment' that it should NOT be placed on the ballot. The decision is being appealed to the Michigan Supreme Court by RMGN proponents.

As the legal challenges continue related to this complex matter, MAR will closely monitor the situation along with other organizations that possess traditional Democrat and Republican leanings that realize the disastrous effects it would have on Michigan. Should broad membership action ultimately be needed to defeat this proposal, that message will reach you loud and clear.

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

$7 Million Clubhouse opens at Tullymore - Canadian Lakes, Michigan

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:26:17 -0500

In the heart of Mecosta County, Michigan, lies a jewel "in the palm of heaven". The new $7 million Tullymore Clubhouse is 13,000 square feet and the focal point of the $50 million Villages at Tullymore development. The Tullymore golf course is ranked 14th of public courses in the United States.

Also in the plans are a $10 million recreational center & spa, and new housing for 600. The Villages at Tullymore also includes condominiums and "fractional" housing (similar to timeshares) overlooking the golf course.

Tullymore is one of 5 golf courses in the resort community of Canadian Lakes, Michigan, including 2 public and 3 private courses. Many lakes & rolling hills add to the beauty of the area, with abundant wildlife and recreational activities to suit everyone. Member amenities include indoor & outdoor swimming pools, boating, swimming, fishing on many area lakes; tennis, basketball, dances, and over 60 activity groups!

See more of Canadian Lakes amenities at:

http://localism.com/mi/canadian_lakes

Read more about the opening of the new Tullymore Clubhouse at Mlive.com by clicking on the link below:

http://www.mlive.com/business/grpress/index.ssf?/base/business-6/1219410908242550.xml&coll=6

Home Buyers:

Click here to Search all area Home for Sale listings

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Watching butterflies has taught me...

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 00:04:21 -0500

In all you do, make it intentional.

If you are waiting in the doctor's office - use that time. Don't waste it thinking that you are wasting it.

You can never, ever, get that moment back.

If you can‘t relax, do something active like making a list, checking through your appointment book, or cleaning those extra things out of your purse or wallet. Read a book, strike up a conversation with a future client. If all else seems impossible - just spend your time THINKING.

This does not mean you can never relax and take it easy. It means pay attention to the moments you are relaxing. If it is relaxing in the doctor's waiting room, do it deliberately. If you are relaxing on the beach, do it deliberately, and be in that moment. Allow yourself the pleasure... Enjoy it to the fullest!

That moment can never be replaced, so focus! Whether it's your son or daughter asking a question, or your spouse telling you what their day was like... Focus. Savor that moment.

Working, playing, relaxing... Be intentional & focus.

Never waste precious time. You cannot live that moment over again.

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

You AR Amazing!

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:47:49 -0500

It strikes me that the Active Rain community is such an amazing diversity of beings! As Realtors®, we are bound together by our common membership in the National Association of Realtors®, and yet as individuals, we are as different and unique as a group can be!

Not only are we diverse in ethnicities and religions, but in business philosophies and motivations as well. Some people are very by-the-book when it comes to their business, and others are happy to explore their creative sides at every opportunity to photograph, stage, or make a new flyer pop with special graphics.

I would just like to say that it is great to learn from all of you, and this network is a wonderful addition to the Realtor® toolbox. Thank you to all who particpate, especially the Active Rain people who make this possible!

www.realtor.org

www.BigRapidsHomes.Info

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

Spammed on AR!

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:59:39 -0500

Can anyone tell me if there is a "Report Spam" button on Active Rain?

As an AR & blogging newbie, it really didn't cross my mind that spammers such as the famous UK-originated scams would come through the Active Rain contact channels.

Just received one titled - Contact from Thompson: investment, - claiming a lady has twenty-eight million to invest.

Great! I'll just send them my bank account information, along with my social security number. :)

If you know how to keep spammers out of Active Rain, please share!

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

www.Greenridge.com

How to Take a Better Exterior Main Photo

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:51:26 -0500

There are a few simple things that anyone can do to improve their exterior digital shots. You will be greatly rewarded for spending a little bit of prep time before you shoot, as the main exterior photo is sometimes the only photo a potential buyer will see!

1. Pay attention to what time of day the home will look best, with the least shadowing from the sun on the front of the home. Even homes that are not so great will look better with a sunny, blue sky - even in winter.

2. Take a good look at the home & yard. Do a little exterior 'staging'.

Make sure that all of the doors and windows are closed. Are the blinds or curtains inside askew? At the very least, straighten them - and you may want to close or partially close interior blinds or curtains, so windows don't look "pitch black" in the photos, (or show glare shining through from windows or doors on opposite side of the home). Lack of visible window treatments in photos can make a home look vacant and unappealing.

Also, make sure the garage door is fully closed! Move (or have the homeowner or your assistant help move) any items that should not be in the photo, such as the outdoor trash bin, toys in the yard, and especially vehicles or pets.

3. Take several photos from different angles:

Starting from, and including one side of the home with the front, shoot several photos, varying the horizon line. Shoot all around the front of the home, and then including the other side as well. It takes much less time to shoot many photos and look through them on your computer screen to find the best ones than it does to "photo-shop" & change them.

Try shooting holding the camera low, and angle up, and then hold the camera high, especially for full front views of the home. Many times the best photo has a low horizon, with lots of blue sky, and the home filling about a third of the frame. (If you take a photo on a cloudy grey day, just take a couple. Go back & re-shoot as soon as there is a nice day, and make sure it is the right time of day for that home.)

4. Decide which exterior photo is best. Click back & forth between two of your photos displayed on your computer, and one will usually stand out as better than the other. (Now look at them again & figure out WHY one appeals to you over the other, which will help you with composing photos at your next listing!) Keep comparing all of the other photos to the one you liked best, until you arrive at your top choice. Above all, make sure the focus is very sharp on the photo that you select!

Be sure to 'rename' your top choice for the main photo, so it is easy to find again. (To rename, highlight name or number of photo, right click on the name, select 'rename' and type the new name or listing number, then click on the screen off the box area. New name is saved!)

5. Brighten the photo in a photo program (or mls controls for photos, if you have them available) before you post it on the listing. All photos tend to look darker on the computer screen. You may also want to play with the contrast to add more overall depth, or increase saturation slightly for deeper colors.

These are the basics. Of course if you have lots of time, you can spend hours playing with a photo program & discover all kinds of neat enhancements. If you follow the basic instructions above, though, you will be off to a great start!

Remember - that seller about to list is looking through the listings too, to see which Realtor's photos they like the best.

PS: Follow the above instructions, and if you do color print ads, you will find them popping off the page!

www.BigRapidsHomes.Info

www.Greenridge.com/LynnAfton

www.GreenridgeOakmontRealty.com

Click on the link below to search homes in West Michigan (No ads, no pop-ups!)

Search by County, School District or Zip Code

www.BigRapidsHomes.info