Living in Grand Rapids

May Group Realtors
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This podcast brought to you by May Group Realtors with RE/MAX of Grand Rapids is all about (you guessed it) living in Grand Rapids! We'll talk about everything that's happening in our community from events, restaurants, neighborhoods, and of course, we have to talk a little about Real Estate too!

  1. Sep 28

    Rockford vs. Sparta vs. Cedar Springs, MI Compared

    Thinking about moving north of Grand Rapids? Rockford, Sparta, and Cedar Springs are three of the most popular small towns near GR, and in this video we break down what makes each one different, from home prices to schools to commute times, so you can figure out which one is the right fit for you. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS Introduction (0:00)
 Rockford: Rogue River & Established Downtown (1:11)
 Sparta: Apple Country & Affordability (2:08)
 Cedar Springs: Red Flannel & New Growth (3:08)
 Commute to Grand Rapids (3:57)
 Which Town Is Right for You? (4:20) Rockford, Sparta, and Cedar Springs are all within 10 to 15 minutes of each other and roughly 20 minutes from Grand Rapids, but each has its own personality, price point, and lifestyle. In this video, Doren Colley with The May Group at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids walks through what each community is known for and who tends to be the best fit for each one. Rockford is the most established of the three, with the Rogue River running through town, access to the White Pine Trail, a walkable downtown, and a strong lineup of restaurants, breweries, and community events. The Rockford School District is also a major draw for families, known for strong academics and a big, welcoming sports culture. All of that comes at a premium, making Rockford a great fit for buyers who want an amenity-rich, established small-town experience. Sparta has a more rural, agricultural feel and leans fully into its identity as apple country, complete with orchards and the annual Apple Fest. Home prices in Sparta tend to be the most affordable of the three towns, making it a strong option for first-time buyers or anyone looking for more house or property without a long drive from Grand Rapids. Cedar Springs blends established neighborhoods with a wave of new development as the Grand Rapids area continues to grow north. It offers great access to the White Pine Trail and Cedar Springs Brewing Company, along with the town's signature Red Flannel Festival each fall. Price-wise, Cedar Springs typically lands between Sparta and Rockford, offering a solid mix of value and growth potential. When it comes to commute times, all three towns sit about 20 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, giving residents easy access to the city without giving up that small-town pace of life. If you're weighing Rockford vs Sparta vs Cedar Springs for your next move, this video breaks down exactly what you need to know before making a decision. Thinking about relocating to Grand Rapids or the lakeshore? Grab our free Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide Have questions or want to talk more about a move to or around West Michigan? Contact The May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 330-2555 Email: info@marketgr.com Follow us for more Grand Rapids and West Michigan content: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/ #GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan

  2. Sep 14

    What to Know Before Moving to Grand Rapids

    Thinking about a move? Here are the things to know before moving to Grand Rapids that most people don't find out until they've already lived here. From surprising commute times to what your money really buys, this is the local's guide to getting settled the right way. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS Introduction (0:00)  Commute & Getting Around (0:30)  Outdoor Life & Recreation (1:05)  Biking Community (1:40)  Flying In & Out: Gerald R. Ford Airport (2:23)  Cost of Living (3:08)  Final Thoughts (3:56) Grand Rapids Commute and Getting Around One of the biggest surprises for newcomers is just how far you can live from downtown Grand Rapids and still have an easy commute. In most major metro areas, thirty minutes barely gets you past the city limits. Here, that same thirty minutes can put you in a small town, on a few acres of land, or on a lake, and you are still a short drive from downtown. Average commute times run around 20 to 22 minutes, without the gridlock you would expect in Chicago, LA, or New York. That means buyers can often trade a slightly longer drive for more land and more house for their money. Outdoor Living Built Into Everyday Life Outdoor access here is not just a weekend trip away; it is part of daily life. The Grand River runs straight through downtown and fills with steelhead and salmon every fall and spring, so fly fishing minutes from the office is completely normal. Add in dozens of inland lakes for boating, Lake Michigan beach towns like Grand Haven and Saugatuck about 45 minutes to an hour away, and wooded hiking trails at Millennium Park, Almont Park, and Provin Trails, and it is easy to see why so many transplants fall in love with the lifestyle here. A Bigger Biking Community Than You'd Expect Grand Rapids has been ranked among the most bike-friendly cities in the country, and the trail network backs it up. The Grand River Greenway is on track to connect more than 80 miles from downtown all the way to Lake Michigan, with mountain bike systems offering over 100 miles of singletrack nearby. Group rides are easy to find and join, and they are one of the best ways to get to know the city and the surrounding areas. An Airport That Actually Makes Travel Easy Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers nonstop service to more than 35 destinations across seven airlines, so a connecting flight often is not necessary. On a normal day, you can arrive about 45 minutes before boarding, move through security without a wait, and still have time for coffee before your flight, a very different experience than O'Hare or Atlanta. What to Know About Cost of Living Cost of living in Grand Rapids runs meaningfully below the national average, with groceries about 10 percent below average and utilities, healthcare, and transportation close to national norms. Housing is the area to watch. The average home sale price in Kent County is currently around $400,000, with homes selling in about six days on average, often above asking price. It is still far more affordable than Chicago, Denver, or the coasts, but it is no longer the deal it was a few years ago. If you are considering a move to Grand Rapids, the May Group at RE/MAX would love to help you plan it out and answer any questions along the way. Thinking about moving to Grand Rapids? Grab our free Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide Have questions or want to talk more about a move to or around West Michigan? Contact The May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids  Phone: (616) 330-2555  Email: info@marketgr.com Follow us for more Grand Rapids and West Michigan content: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/ #GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan

  3. Aug 31

    Best Lakeshore Towns Near Grand Rapids for Commuters

    Thinking about moving to Grand Rapids but don't want to give up lake life? Here's the truth about how close you can actually get to Lake Michigan without leaving the Grand Rapids area, plus the best lakeshore towns to check out for a day trip, weekend getaway, or your next move. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS  Introduction (0:00)  Saugatuck & Douglas (0:55)  Holland, Michigan (1:42)  Grand Haven (2:22)  Spring Lake (2:56)  Muskegon (3:28)  Final Thoughts (4:04) Grand Rapids is known for its art, culture, and outdoor recreation, but sometimes you need a break from the city and a little lake air. The good news is that some of the best lakeshore towns in Michigan are only 30 to 45 minutes away, which makes them perfect for a weekend escape or even a full-time move. Saugatuck & Douglas are about 40 minutes from Grand Rapids and known for art galleries, boutique shopping, and standout restaurants like The Butler, The Southerner, and Bowdie's in Saugatuck, plus Everyday People Cafe in Douglas. Don't miss Oval Beach, one of the best beaches in the Midwest, or Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Holland, Michigan is about 35 minutes away and one of our favorites. Known for its Dutch heritage, the Tulip Time festival, windmills, gardens, and Lake Macatawa, Holland also has a picture-perfect downtown and great food at spots like Butch's Dry Dock, Boatwerks Waterfront, and Alpenrose. Grand Haven, about 40 minutes from Grand Rapids, is a classic summer town with sandy beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a charming boardwalk. Catch the sunset at Grand Haven State Park and grab dinner at Snug Harbor along the Grand River. Spring Lake, roughly 35 minutes away, is nestled between Spring Lake and the Grand River and perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Explore the historic waterfront district and stop by Arcadia Brewing Company. Muskegon, about 45 minutes out, is up and coming with something for everyone, from the Lake Shore Museum Center to the boardwalk and Pere Marquette Park. Local favorites include Lake House Waterfront Grill and The Deck. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or considering a permanent move to the lakeshore, these West Michigan towns offer a great escape without straying too far from Grand Rapids. Looking for homes in these lakeshore communities? Browse listings here: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/real-estate-for-sale-grand-haven/ Thinking about relocating to Grand Rapids or the lakeshore? Grab our free Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide Have questions or want to talk more about a move to or around West Michigan? Contact The May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids  Phone: (616) 330-2555  Email: info@marketgr.com Follow us for more Grand Rapids and West Michigan content: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/ #GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan

  4. Aug 17

    Pros & Cons of Living in East Grand Rapids

    Thinking about East Grand Rapids? Amazing schools, walkable streets, and Reeds Lake views come with a real price premium and limited inventory. Here are the honest pros and cons before you buy. What This Video Covers In this video, local realtor Abby Cribbs breaks down the honest pros and cons of living in East Grand Rapids: what locals love (top-rated schools, walkability, Gaslight Village, Reeds Lake, and a short commute to downtown Grand Rapids) and what they don't always mention (the price premium, older homes, low inventory, and higher property taxes). By the end, you'll know exactly what you're trading off, and whether it's worth it for you. Who This Is For This is especially helpful for families weighing top schools against home size, buyers comparing East Grand Rapids to Ada, Cascade, or Forest Hills, and anyone relocating to West Michigan who wants a straight answer instead of just the highlights. Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction  0:35 — Why everyone wants to live in East Grand Rapids  1:22 — Walkability (Gaslight Village, Reeds Lake)  2:02 — Community and top-rated schools  2:17 — The real downsides (price, lot size, taxes)  3:03 — Older homes and limited inventory  3:40 — Who East Grand Rapids suits best  4:18 — Closing thoughts If you're thinking about moving in or to West Michigan, our team would love to help. Subscribe for more honest neighborhood breakdowns, and if there's another area you'd like covered next, drop it in the comments below. 👉 Search homes for sale in East Grand Rapids, MI: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/real-estate-for-sale-east-grand-rapids/  👉 Get our free West Michigan Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide    👉 Call or text us: (616) 330-2555 👉 Email us: info@marketgr.com  👉 Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/   #eastgrandrapids #grandrapidsrealestate #westmichiganrealtor #livingingrandrapids #michiganrealestate #reedslake #gaslightvillage #relocatingtomichigan #grandrapidshomes #westmichiganliving Disclaimer: This video is for general informational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal, or real estate advice. Home prices, taxes, and inventory conditions change over time. Consult a licensed local realtor or financial advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

  5. Aug 10 ·  Bonus

    What Not to Do Before Buying a Home

    Thinking about buying a home in the next six months? Getting pre-approved isn't the finish line. Here are the financial mistakes that can quietly cost you your home purchase, and how to avoid them. What This Video Covers In this video, Doren Colley with The May Group at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids walks through the most common financial missteps buyers make between pre-approval and closing, from missing a credit card payment to moving large sums of money without telling your lender. She covers exactly what to avoid with your credit, your income, your savings, and your spending so your approval stays on track. These are the same reminders we give to every client we work with. Who This Is For This is for anyone planning to buy a home in the next several months, especially first-time buyers who've been pre-approved and don't realize their finances are still being watched right up until closing. Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction  0:35 — Don't miss a credit card payment, open a new line of credit, or close credit accounts without talking to your lender  1:30 — Don't buy large or expensive items or decrease your savings  1:48 — Don't quit your job or change careers  2:05 — Don't move large amounts of money around  2:31 — Don't start house hunting too early  2:41 — Final thoughts If this was helpful, subscribe for more real talk on what it actually takes to buy a home and why our team loves living in Grand Rapids, Michigan. And if you're getting ready to buy in the near future, we'd love to help!  LET’S CONNECT Grab our free First-Time Home Buyer tips: https://mailchi.mp/marketgr/homebuyer  Email: info@marketgrandrapids.com  Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com  INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/  FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/marketgrandrapids  #homebuyingtips #firstimehomebuyer #mortgagetips #realestateadvice #grandrapidsrealtor #homebuyingprocess #grandrapidsrealestate #buyingahome Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for personalized financial or lending advice. Always consult your lender or financial advisor before making major financial decisions related to your home purchase.

  6. Aug 3

    Living in Rockford, MI: Is It Right for You?

    Is Rockford, Michigan, a good place to live? In this episode of Living in Grand Rapids, Josh May breaks down the schools, home prices, commute, and lifestyle in one of West Michigan's most beloved small towns, and who actually thrives here versus who probably won't. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS  Introduction (0:00)  What Rockford, MI Is Known For (1:22)  The Rockford Lifestyle: Rogue River & White Pine Trail (2:14)  Rockford Public Schools (3:15)  Is Rockford Expensive? Home Prices & Inventory (4:03)  The Commute to Grand Rapids (5:16)  Downtown Rockford & The River Scene (6:08)  Tradeoffs: Nightlife, Diversity & Car Dependency (7:02)  Who Thrives in Rockford (and Who Doesn't) (7:37)  Final Thoughts (8:41) ABOUT ROCKFORD, MICHIGAN Rockford, Michigan is located about 15 miles north of downtown Grand Rapids, and it has managed to grow over the years while keeping its small-town, community-first feel. People know Rockford for its charming downtown, excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community, with local restaurants that know regulars by name and neighborhoods where kids still ride bikes until the streetlights come on. THE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Rockford is the lifestyle. The Rogue River flows directly through downtown, and residents spend their summers kayaking, canoeing, fishing, paddle boarding, and relaxing along the riverwalk. Rockford also connects directly to the White Pine Trail, a paved trail stretching more than 90 miles, making it easy to bike, run, or walk right from downtown. SCHOOLS AND REAL ESTATE The Rockford Public School District is consistently one of the highest rated in West Michigan, and it's a major reason home values here have stayed so strong. Compared to much of West Michigan, Rockford runs on the higher end for home prices, though it's still considered affordable next to major metro areas nationally. Inventory stays limited, and well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods often see multiple offers. COMMUTE AND DAILY LIFE Most residents commute to downtown Grand Rapids in about 20 to 30 minutes, with easy access to the Medical Mile, Corewell Health, and other major employers. Rockford is a car-dependent community outside of downtown, so anyone moving from a highly walkable city should expect an adjustment. DOWNTOWN AND TRADEOFFS Downtown Rockford is small but active, filled with local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, breweries, and community events, with the river as the backdrop for much of summer life. It's not trying to be downtown Grand Rapids, which is exactly why people love it. That said, it's quieter than other parts of the metro, with less nightlife and less diversity, which matters to some buyers and not to others. WHO ROCKFORD IS RIGHT FOR Rockford tends to be the perfect fit for families who prioritize schools, professionals who want a quieter lifestyle close to Grand Rapids, outdoor enthusiasts, and buyers looking for long-term stability in both lifestyle and home values. If you're considering a move to West Michigan, we'd love to help you find the right fit. 👉 Search homes for sale in Rockford, MI: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/rockford/   👉 Get our free West Michigan Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide   👉 Call or text us: (616) 330-2555 👉 Email us: info@marketgr.com  👉 Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/  #RockfordMichigan #GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate

  7. Jul 20

    Your Ultimate Guide to West Michigan Parks

    Looking for the best parks in West Michigan? In this episode of Living in Grand Rapids, Doren Colley with the May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids shares his favorite parks and outdoor spaces around Grand Rapids, from family-friendly neighborhood parks to hiking trails and hidden beaches just a couple of hours away. Grand Rapids has a big-city energy with restaurants, live music, and even a Beer City USA title, but some of the best moments here happen when you slow down. Whether that means a morning trail, a playground afternoon, or a quiet bench with coffee, West Michigan has a park for every kind of day, and this video breaks down exactly where to find them. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS  Introduction (0:00)  What Are the Best Parks in West Michigan? (1:00)  Best Family Parks & Playgrounds (1:17)  Trails for Walking, Running & Biking (2:19)  Quiet, Natural Parks (2:47)  Choose Your Own Adventure (3:08)  Beyond the City: Beaches & Dunes (3:25)  Final Thoughts (4:07)  What Are the Best Parks in West Michigan? It's one of the questions Doren gets asked most, and honestly, it's a tough one to answer because there are so many great options. Instead of a top ten list, this video walks through favorite parks and outdoor spaces based on the type of experience you're looking for, from playgrounds to peaceful hikes. Best Family Parks in Grand Rapids: If you have younger kids, Grand Rapids and the surrounding communities are full of neighborhood parks with playgrounds, splash pads, open fields, and gathering spaces. Some of the local family favorites include Millennium Park, Riverside Park, Hager Park, and Townsend Park, all of which offer large green spaces, trails, playgrounds, and reservable pavilions for parties and family reunions. For something closer to the neighborhoods, Garfield Park and Richmond Park are easy to get to and great for quick afternoon outings, complete with well-loved disc golf courses. Trails, Biking & Quiet Natural Spaces: For walkers, runners, and bikers, the White Pine Trail is a West Michigan favorite, stretching more than 90 miles from Comstock Park to Cadillac with a paved, mostly flat path perfect for dog walkers, families with strollers, and long-distance athletes alike. For a quieter, more natural setting, Doren recommends Pickerel Lake Park, Lewton Park, Townsend Park, and Roselle Park, all beautiful spots for wooded trails and a little solitude. Beyond Grand Rapids: Beaches, Dunes & State Parks. Within a couple hours of Grand Rapids, you'll find some of the most beautiful beaches and dune systems in Michigan. Doren shares one of his favorite outdoor adventures, backpacking at Nordhouse Dunes along Lake Michigan, about two hours northwest of the city, where you'll find white sand, crystal clear water, and a beach that feels almost private. Whatever kind of day you're looking for, whether it's a playground and a picnic table or a challenging hike, West Michigan has a park to match. Watch the full video to find your next favorite outdoor spot, and let us know in the comments which West Michigan park is your favorite. *LET'S CONNECT* Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide  Email: contact@marketgrandrapids.com  Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com  Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors 👍 If you enjoyed this video, hit subscribe for more Living in Grand Rapids episodes! #GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan

  8. Jul 13 ·  Bonus

    First-Time Home Buyer Questions Answered | Grand Rapids Real Estate

    Got first-time home buyer questions? Ross Bacon of May Group Realtors covers the hardest part of buying a house, the biggest mistakes buyers make, and whether you should buy a smaller home first. In this video, Ross Bacon of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids answers the most common first-time home buyer questions he gets every day: how to get started, why talking to a lender comes before everything else, the difference between your approval amount and your comfort zone, what closing costs and earnest money actually mean, how long the buying process takes, whether you really need an agent, how to make a competitive offer, what the hardest part of buying a house really is, the biggest first-time buyer mistakes to avoid, and whether buying a smaller starter home makes sense for you. Who This Is For This is for anyone thinking about buying their first home and feeling overwhelmed by the process. Whether you’re just starting to research or you’re almost ready to make a move, this video will help you feel informed, confident, and prepared — not rushed. Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction 0:33 — How do I get started? 1:40 — Approval amount vs. your comfort zone  2:15 — What type of lender should you use? 3:33 — Down payment requirements by loan type 4:40 — How long does the buying process take? 5:20 — Do you really need a buyer’s agent? 6:28 — How do you know what to offer? 7:20 — What’s the hardest part of buying a house? 6:53 — Are you ready to buy? Final thoughts Have a question we didn’t cover? Or starting the conversation about buying in the Grand Rapids area, reach out using the link below. We’d love to help. Subscribe for more real estate tips and information all about living in Grand Rapids, Michigan. LET’S CONNECT Grab our free First-Time Home Buyer tips: https://mailchi.mp/marketgr/homebuyer  Email: contact@marketgrandrapids.com  Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com   Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors #firsttimehomebuyer  #homebuyertips  #buyingahouse  #grandrapidsrealestate  #realestatetips #firsttimebuyermistakes  #homebuying101  #mortgagetips  #preapproval  #realestate  #westmichiganrealestate  #remax #starterhome #howtobuyyourfirsthome This video is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or mortgage advice. Loan programs, down payment requirements, and closing cost estimates vary by buyer, lender, and market conditions. Always consult a licensed real estate professional and mortgage lender for guidance specific to your situation.

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This podcast brought to you by May Group Realtors with RE/MAX of Grand Rapids is all about (you guessed it) living in Grand Rapids! We'll talk about everything that's happening in our community from events, restaurants, neighborhoods, and of course, we have to talk a little about Real Estate too!

Information

  • Creator
    May Group Realtors
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    184
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © May Group Realtors
  • Show Website
    Living in Grand Rapids