Living in Grand Rapids

May Group Realtors
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Leisure
  • Updated Biweekly

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. 4d ago

    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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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.

  6. Jul 6

    Living in West Grand: A Neighborhood Guide

    Thinking about moving to the West Grand neighborhood in Northwest Grand Rapids? In this video, Scott Bradford with the May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids takes you on a tour of West Grand's boundaries, housing market, local events, and best food spots, so you know exactly what to expect before you buy or rent here. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS Introduction (0:00)  Boundaries & Location (0:21)  Housing & Real Estate (0:58)  Local Businesses & Community Events (1:44)  Summary (2:59) Scott Bradford with the May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids is back with another episode of Living in Grand Rapids, this time exploring the West Grand neighborhood in Northwest Grand Rapids, Michigan. What Makes West Grand Unique West Grand is a diverse, vibrant neighborhood known for its electric mix of residential areas, local businesses, and cultural attractions. It's home to families, young professionals, and artists, all drawn to the tree-lined streets, community gardens, and neighborhood parks that give the area its welcoming, green feel. Where Is West Grand Located? West Grand is a large neighborhood bordered by the Grand River to the east, Bridge Street to the south, Valley Avenue, Walker Avenue, and Bristol Avenue to the west, and Dunlap Street and Nason Street to the north. West Grand Real Estate Out of nearly 7,000 households in West Grand, about 51% of residents are renters. Active single-family home listings currently range from $160,000 to $325,000, while multi-unit listings range from $225,000 to $415,000. Overall, West Grand remains a reasonable and accessible area to purchase a home in the city of Grand Rapids. Community & Events West Grand hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year. One highlight this summer is Storytime at Lincoln Park, held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:00 PM with stories, free books, ice cream, and special guests for kids and teens of all ages. It's a partnership between Read GR, Grand Valley State University, John Ball Area Neighborhoods, the West Grand Neighborhood Organization, and the City of Grand Rapids Office of Special Events. Check the West Grand Neighborhood Association's website for additional events throughout the year. Food & Local Businesses Along Bridge Street and Leonard Street, you'll find some of West Grand's best food and drink spots, including Blue Dog Tavern (a dog-friendly patio favorite), New Holland Brewery, Condado Tacos, The Holiday Bar, and Salvatore's Italian Restaurant. West Grand is a lively, welcoming neighborhood with a mix of housing options, local amenities, and community events for residents to enjoy. If you're considering a move to Grand Rapids, this is a neighborhood worth exploring. LET'S CONNECT 📍 See homes for sale in West Grand: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/west-grand/  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 #GrandRapids

  7. Jun 22

    Grand Haven, Michigan: Things to Do & Local Tips

    Curious if Grand Haven, Michigan is as good as everyone says? In this video, we're taking you through one of West Michigan's most beloved lakeshore towns, from the beach and downtown to the food scene, schools, and the events that keep people coming back year after year. ⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS Introduction (0:00)Grand Haven Beach & Lighthouse (0:30)Downtown Grand Haven & Washington Avenue (0:50)Outdoor Activities & Trails (1:13)Local Food Scene (1:32)Is Grand Haven Good for Families? (1:50)Grand Haven Musical Fountain (2:10)Festivals & Seasonal Events (2:30)Final Thoughts (2:40) Grand Haven, Michigan is one of West Michigan's most popular lakeshore communities, and it's easy to see why. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, charming downtown, family-friendly atmosphere, and year-round outdoor fun, which makes it a favorite for both summer visitors and people looking to relocate to the area. Grand Haven BeachOne of the biggest draws is the beach. Grand Haven State Park features wide sandy shores, unforgettable Lake Michigan sunsets, and the iconic Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier, one of the most photographed landmarks in the state. Whether you're swimming, relaxing in the sun, or taking a sunset walk along the pier, the waterfront is the heart of this town. Downtown Grand HavenDowntown is packed with locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, coffee houses, ice cream parlors, and waterfront restaurants. Washington Avenue is the main street and the perfect spot for an afternoon of shopping and dining, especially during the warmer months when outdoor events and live music fill downtown. Things to Do in Grand HavenOutdoor lovers have plenty to explore too, including miles of biking and walking trails like the Lake Shore Trail, plus boating, fishing, and kayaking on Lake Michigan and the Grand River. Pair that with local favorites like Pronto Pup or a sunset dinner at Noto's at the Bil-Mar, and you've got a town built for making memories. Is Grand Haven Good for Families?Families are drawn to Grand Haven for its welcoming community, highly rated schools, parks, and year-round activities, including the Grand Haven Musical Fountain, one of the largest musical fountains in the world. Add in festivals like the Coast Guard Festival, farmers' markets, and art fairs, and it's clear why this community has such a strong sense of togetherness. If you're thinking about visiting, moving to, or buying a home in Grand Haven, this video will give you a real feel for what life here is actually like. Want to learn more about Grand Haven real estate or West Michigan living? 📍 Read about Grand Haven, MI, and browse homes for sale in Grand Haven: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/grand-haven/📱 Contact May Group Realtors: Email: contact@marketgrandrapids.com  Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com  Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide  Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors #GrandHavenMichigan #WestMichiganRealEstate #GrandRapidsRealEstate

  8. Jun 15 ·  Bonus

    What to prioritize when buying a house | Home Buyer Tips

    What should you prioritize when buying a house? Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors breaks down the most common home buyer questions and the answers that actually make a difference. In this video, Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids answers the most common questions she gets from home buyers: what to prioritize when buying a house, why pre-approval matters before you start shopping, how to understand closing costs, the difference between needs vs. wants, what the hardest part of buying a home really is, and exactly what to do (and not do) during showings. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or returning to the market, this is a practical guide to navigating the process with confidence. Who is this video for? This is especially helpful for first-time home buyers, anyone who’s felt overwhelmed by the process, or buyers who want to go in prepared. Video Chapters 0:00 — Introduction 0:25 — What to prioritize when buying a house 0:53 — Get pre-approved before you start shopping 1:25 — Learn the purchase process upfront 1:50 — Understanding closing costs 2:30 — Needs vs. wants: making your list 2:58 — The hardest part of buying a home 3:33 — What to do (and not do) at showings 4:21 — Final advice & next steps If you’re thinking about buying a home and have questions, reach out. Our team would love to help guide you through the process. 📱 Contact May Group Realtors: Email: contact@marketgrandrapids.com Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors #buyingahouse #homebuyertips #firsttimehomebuyer #grandrapidsrealestate #realestate #homebuying101 #realestatetips #househunting #westmichiganrealestate #remax

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About

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
    181
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © May Group Realtors
  • Show Website
    Living in Grand Rapids