The Blog
Community Highlights
Real Estate
On The Blog
Winter in West Michigan | 2025
The snow has officially fallen and the holidays are getting us into the winter spirit already! Here’s a list of activities and events that are
Having a Gilmore Girls Fall in Grand Rapids
Every time Fall rolls around, we notice that Gilmore Girls rolls right back around with it, and we are SO here for it. Maybe you
Searching for Cheap Land to Build On in Michigan? Here Are 5 Things You Need To Consider!!
Here Are 5 Things To Think About If You Want To Buy Cheap Land Let’s Talk About Buying Land! 1. Are there wetlands on the
12 Unique Shower Venues in the West Michigan Area
Planning a shower of some sort? Whether you’re planning your besties bridal shower or your baby shower or another fun event, we’ve got a fun
5 Down Payment Assistance Programs In Michigan You Should Know About
5 Down Payment Assistance Programs in Michigan You Should Know About So, you’ve found the perfect house, you’re dreaming of how to decorate it, but
Fall in West Michigan | 2024
Calling all Fall lovers, we know you’re out there!! Fall is basically here now that it’s September (or maybe you’ve been in Fall mode since
Do you need help paying for home repairs?
Do you need help paying for home repairs? Keeping up on and affording home maintenance and repairs can be a challenge and get really expensive
10 Restaurants with Outdoor Patios in Grand Rapids | 2024
A list of 10 outdoor patios in Grand Rapids to visit this year! The local businesses that make Grand Rapids home are nothing short of
Big Changes Coming to Real Estate This Summer: What You Need To Know If You’re Buying Soon
Big Changes Coming to Real Estate This Summer: What You Need to Know If You’re Buying Soon Hey there Home Buyer! There are several changes
The Hard Truths About Downsizing Your House
The hard truths about downsizing As you can see from the title, we want to talk about the difficult parts of downsizing so you are
How to Sell a House While in Distress
How to sell a house while in distress If you’ve decided to sell your house for a reason that may not be ideal, we are
4 Local Non-Profits Doing Affordable Housing Right Now
4 Local Non-Profits Doing Affordable Housing Right Now Finding affordable housing can be a challenge, but several non-profits in the Grand Rapids Metro area are
Summer in West Michigan | 2024
There’s loads to do in the summer in West Michigan and we’re here to share a list of some of our fav summer activities for
What To Expect When Buying An Estate Property
Navigating the Emotional Maze: What to Expect When Buying an Estate Property Picture this: you’ve found a charming old house with all the character and
How To Sell Mom’s House Now
How to sell mom’s house ORIGINAL POST FROM THE LOCAL ELEMENT Losing a parent is one of life’s most challenging experiences. As you are walking
25 Murals You’ll Love in Grand Rapids
25 Murals You’ll Love in Grand Rapids Welcome to Grand Rapids Where art runs through the veins of the city and is a part of
Let’s Talk About The Housing Crisis
Let’s talk about the housing crisis and how to find affordable housing in the West Michigan area.
Spring in West Michigan
Spring in West Michigan Each season brings new and exciting opportunities! Greater Grand Rapids and West Michigan are great places to be in any season.
Activities for the Kiddos in Greater Grand Rapids
Things to do with Kiddos in Greater Grand Rapids West Michigan is beyond kid friendly and we’re here to share with you some of our
Using the ‘BRRRR Method’ to Invest in West MI Real Estate
Using the ‘BRRRR Method’ to Invest in West Real Estate Market The BRRRR Method, which stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, is a real
Types of Home Loans
Types of Home Loans 6 Types of Home Loans for Home Buyers As a future homeowner, it is equally important to research the types of
The Ultimate Guide to Date Night in Grand Rapids
Date Night in Grand Rapids Your go-to guide for date night planning in Grand Rapids! No, but really, we’re covering a variety of date nights
Grand Rapids Local Coffee Shops We’re Loving
A list of local coffee shops that are worth a shout out in Grand Rapids!
5 Recent New Businesses to Check Out in West Michigan
5 new businesses that we’re loving!
Winter in West Michigan | 2024
Learn more about the winter fun happening in the Greater Grand Rapids and West Michigan area! From holiday events to festive light shows, there’s so much to do!
3 Most Important Things to Look for When Buying a House
Location, neighborhood amenities, and the home’s interior condition are the most important things to look at when buying a home. Let’s dive into the details!
Fall Instagrammable Spots in West Michigan
Instagrammable Spots for the Fall in West Michigan Fall in West Michigan is beyond Instagrammable and we have a list of spots for you to
Fall in West Michigan 2023
There are SO many great things to do in Grand Rapids to celebrate fall! Learn more about them today.
Dog-Friendly Spots in Grand Rapids and Beyond
Calling all dog owners and dog lovers! West MI has many dog-friendly spots. Get the full guide of patios, parks, and shops to take your furry friend to.
Family Opportunity Mortgage
Are your parents or disabled adult child looking to buy a new home? If they cannot finance the home by themselves, you might be able to help them!
Prepare to Sell Your Home
Have you been thinking of selling your home? Get top dollar for your home by doing these 6 things that our local experts recommend.
What The Heck Is Happening In The West Michigan Real Estate Market?!
It has been quite the rollercoaster of a year and we are here to tell you exactly what is happening in the West Michigan real estate market.
Camping in Mid Michigan
Mid-Michigan is the perfect destination for your summer camping trips. Learn more about all the fantastic campgrounds to visit in the area.
Michigan Summer Day Trip Idea: Traverse City and Northern Michigan!
If you’re looking for a fun summer day trip to plan before the end of summer, then look no further! Plan your day in Traverse City and Northern Michigan.
Unlocking Wealth: The Power of Real Estate Investing
Discover the numerous benefits of investing in real estate and how real estate investments can pave the way to financial stability and wealth accumulation.
Restaurants With Gluten Free and Dietary Options in Grand Rapids (and Beyond)
You’re guide to gluten-free and dietary restaurants in Grand Rapids! Connecting YOU to your local community.
1031 Exchanges Explained
1031 Exchanges Explained Hey Fellow Investors! So you’re looking to learn a little bit more about 1031 Exchanges – awesome! Below is a quick overview.
West Michigan Food Festivals Summer 2023
West Michigan Food Festivals Summer 2023 Facebook Twitter LinkedIn West Michigan has an abundance of food festivals this summer. So, if food is your love
Major Attractions in Grand Rapids
Major Attractions in Grand Rapids Introducing you to some of the activities and accessories that make Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids. These staple pieces of GR
43 West and North Michigan Counties to Pay Millions to Former Property Owners
Did you lose your home to foreclosure in Michigan between 2013-2020? 43 West and North Michigan Counties are paying millions to former property owners. Read more to see if you qualify.
Cabins for Sale in West Michigan
Cabins for Sale in West Michigan West Michigan is known for its natural beauty, unique landscapes, and enchanting summer getaways. As temperatures rise and the
Summer in West Michigan
Summer in West Michigan There are so many fun things to do during the hot Summer months in West Michigan! Greater Grand Rapids and West
20+ Instagram-able Spots in Grand Rapids
Whether you’re looking to take your annual family photos or just snap a pic for Instagram, we have the perfect spot for YOU! Explore the
Planning a West MI Wedding? We’ve got some local recommendations for ya!
Planning a West MI Wedding? We’ve got some local recommendations for ya! Wedding season is approaching which means that we HAVE to talk about planning
5 Reasons to Move to West Michigan
Considering a move to a new location with natural beauty and affordable living? Look no further! Explore what makes West Michigan living so great.
Get Rid Of That Old Fridge, Finally!!
Ready to clear out that space, save money on your energy bills, and get a rebate from Consumers? Click Here to Learn More
Local Gifts for Your Mom
Local Gifts for Your Mom Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate the most important woman in our lives! This
Am I Ready to Purchase My First Home?
Am I ready to purchase my first home? If you’re considering buying your first home, it’s important to assess your readiness to take on this
5 Reasons Why You Should Buy a Condo
Condominiums are becoming a popular choice for homebuyers, and for good reason! Read our top 5 reasons why you should consider buying a condo.
Tips for Making Your Spring Cleaning Fun!
Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get your home in tip-top shape!
LOCAL Impact: ICCF
LOCAL Impact: ICCF Who are they? ICCF is a equitable housing nonprofit in Grand Rapids that supports those looking for safe, clean, and affordable homes.
5 Steps To Selling Your Home
Looking to sell your home? Don’t miss out on these five key steps for a successful sale!
Green ‘Houses’ for Sale in West Michigan
Happy almostttt St.Patricks Day! 💚We don’t know about you, but we want to start celebrating early by showing you some green “houses” for sale.
Women Owned Businesses in the Grand Rapids Area
Women Owned Businesses In honor of Women’s History Month, we wanted to take the opportunity to highlight some of the fantastic Women-Owned businesses in the
West Michigan Communities with the Most Coffee Shops
The Grand Rapids coffee scene is truly a staple in West MI. Are you looking to try a new coffee shop? Find the perfect one for YOU today!
West Michigan Influencers
Did you know micro-influencers typically get more engagement and marketing performance metrics? Why might this be? Well, micro-influencers are more likely to have strong relationships
Spring in West Michigan
Spring in West Michigan Each season brings new and exciting opportunities! Greater Grand Rapids and West Michigan are great places to be in any season.
Heritage Hill Has Our Heart
Heritage Hill Has Our Heart Heritage Hill how do we love thee? Oh, let me count the ways! I love thee to depth, breadth, and
Must Visit Black-Owned Businesses in the Grand Rapids Area
Local Black-Owned Businesses In honor of Black History Month, we at The Local Element wanted to take this as an opportunity to highlight some of
January 2023 Real Estate Market
Market Update It has been a ride these last 4 months… We are here to tell you that the real estate market is constantly changing.
Our January Giveback: Together We Rise
Our January Giveback: Together We Rise/Foster Love Here are The Local Element we love to get our Local Experts involved in events so that we
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Mocktail Guide
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Mocktail Guide Have you heard of “Dry January”? If you haven’t it’s a campaign (and a popular trend) that takes place
The Ultimate GR Dinner Restaurant Guide
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Dinner Guide Grand Rapids is full of locally owned restaurants that make for such a fun night out on the town!
Helping You Find Your Favorite West Michigan Community
Communitites in West Michigan Helping You Find Your Favorite Community in West Michigan Since August 2021, housing prices in Grand Rapids have increased by 27.3%.
Top 100 Real Estate Terms to Know
Real Estate Terms Top 100 Real Estate Terms to Know We have put together this ‘Agent Glossary’ for you who are studying for the state
Building a Home in West MI
When building your dream home, it’s important to have a realtor by your side to help with the legal stuff, financing options, and ensuring your voice is heard (With no extra fees)
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Lunch Guide
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Lunch Guide Our Top 10 Lunch Spots in Grand Rapids So we’ve talked about our favorite brunch spots (click here to
West Michigan Local Businesses That Opened in 2022!
Local Businesses That Opened in 2022 You guys already know that we are passionate about supporting local businesses here at The Local Element Real Estate
2023 Design Trends: HBA’s Fall Parade of Homes
2023 Design Trends 2023 Design Trends from HBA’s Fall Parade of Homes We were thrilled to partner with the GR Home Builder Association to both
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Brunch Guide
The Ultimate Grand Rapids Brunch Guide Our Top 10 Brunch Spots in Grand Rapids Ok GR, it’s time to discuss a very serious topic: BRUNCH!
Relocating to West Michigan
Relocating to West Michigan Are you thinking about relocating to West Michigan? First, Welcome! What an exciting adventure you are about to go on! Our
Services for First Time Home Buyers
Hey, Hey First Time Home Buyers – We’re Here to Help! We offer a full-service experience that will make buying your first time buying home
Making Friends in West Michigan in 2023
Making Friends in Grand Rapids We know that moving to a new city can be overwhelming and a little bit nerve wracking when it comes
Winter Activities in West Michigan
Winter Activities in West Michigan Each season brings new and exciting opportunities! Greater Grand Rapids and West Michigan are great places to be in any
5 Date Night Ideas In Grand Rapids
5 Date Night Ideas in Grand Rapids Plan the Perfect Date Night in Grand Rapids Looking for a weekly adventure or weekend activity to share