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<h3>The Greenwich Village of Grand Rapids&nbsp;</h3><p>Eastown is a rather small area of Grand Rapids—taking up only 70 square blocks. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. Eastown has been described as the Greenwich village of Grand Rapids. This neighborhood is home to many local businesses and unique stores that sell antiques and one-of-a-kind items. Eastown’s proximity to both Aquinas College and downtown Grand Rapids makes it a popular place for college students to rent, which means plenty of great coffee shops and cheap dining options such as The Pita House, Mulligan’s Pub, and Yesterdog.</p><p>The resident population of Eastown is incredibly diverse, but everyone has one thing in common—they care deeply about their neighborhood. The Eastown Community Association is a very active neighborhood organization committed to keeping business and home owners informed about community issues, promoting community events and initiating improvement projects. Their mission is “to foster a safe, diverse, and walkable Eastown neighborhood by creating opportunities for neighbors and friends to engage and connect.” With its distinctly bohemian feel, Eastown is a great place for buyers who are looking to avoid the crowdedness of downtown living without sacrificing the availability of entertainment options and a thriving community.</p><h3>Eateries&nbsp;</h3><p>Dining options from both ends of the spectrum&nbsp;<br>Eastown offers a wide selection of dining options, so no matter what your tastes are, you’re sure to find something that you love!</p><p>Terrais a local favorite, featuring plenty of high-quality organic, gluten free, or vegan options. This place is magic—somehow, even the dishes with their most exotic ingredients and bewildering combinations tasty homey and wholesome. It’s always busy, so any time you go, you’ll likely have to wait for a table—but I promise, it’s worth it.</p><p>However, if you’re not into the all-natural food fad, Yesterdog—an infamous Eastown hangout—may be more up your alley. Yesterdog is a vintage hot dog shop, complete with a hand-crank cash register and an antique jukebox. Yesterdog was opened in 1976 and has won the title of “Grand Rapids Best Hotdog” in Grand Rapids magazine every year since 1991—the year the category was created. It’s also notable for its appearance in the film American Pie. Yesterdog is one of the most historic and beloved restaurants in all of Grand Rapids. Even if you don’t like hot dogs, it’s a worthwhile stop for the real Eastown experience!</p><p>Eastown Community Association&nbsp;<br>Get involved in the neighborhood!&nbsp;<br>Eastown is a great place to live if you’re looking to really be involved with your community, not simply own a house in the neighborhood. The Eastown Community Association strives to encourage community development through hosting panels and sponsoring neighborhood improvement projects. Topics of discussion have included urban forests, homelessness, getting access to locally grown produce, fair housing, and environmental improvements. They have also hosted art galleries and poetry readings for members of the community. Get involved with the ECA by volunteering to sponsor, host, and coordinate events, or simply check the schedule on their website and attend one yourself! If you want to be a part of shaping the place you live into a community that you want to be a part of, then Eastown is the place for you!</p>

EastTown

School Bus on american country road in the morning

<h3>Forest Hills&nbsp;</h3><p>A big old piece of land with great schools.&nbsp;<br>Forest Hills is located just outside the city of Grand Rapids and provides access to all the amenities of the city while simultaneously giving residents access to world class schools.</p><p>Technically, Forest Hills is an “unincorporated community” that exists primarily for census purposes, but locally “Forest Hills” most commonly refers to the outstanding school district by the same name.</p><p>As a school district, it encompasses portions of Ada Township, Grand Rapids Township, Cascade Township and even parts of the cities of Grand Rapids and Kentwood! Buyers who want an excellent school system and are searching for property in West Michigan, will almost always find themselves asking, “Is it in Forest Hills?”</p><p>The world class schools have &nbsp;drawn people of all ages. There are 100’s of million dollar homes scattered throughout Forest Hills, but incredibly, it is sometimes possible to find homes listed for under 150k!</p><p>Forest Hills covers approximately 50 square miles and virtually any type of property can be found in that space. If you are looking for an incredible condominium community in an urban setting, downtown Ada or Celadon will have what you need!</p><p>If you want to get away from your neighbors, it’s easy to do! There are plenty of acreages available, and they range in size from small 1-2 acre parcels, all the way up to 20 acres or more. There are plenty of option for every kind of buyer! So — if you are interested in moving to one of the best school districts in West Michigan. You can do it. Time to start dreaming about what kind of house you want!</p><p>••</p><h3>Tell me more about these schools&nbsp;</h3><p>How good are they really?&nbsp;<br>Forest Hills is home to 3 incredible high schools. Northern, Central, and Eastern are all top notch schools. As a district, only East Grand Rapids schools ranked higher. Perhaps the best thing I could possibly say about these schools is simply that I send my kids to Forest Hills… and they like it! As crazy as it sounds. My kids like their school. They must have some miracle workers on staff. In fact, I would like to give a shout out to the staff at Orchard View Elementary who worked hard this year to make sure that all 3 of my girls had a wonderful experience. It helps that the student to teacher ratio is a very low 19 to 1!</p><p>Forest Hills offers student an enormous amount of opportunity in athletics. Soccer, Football, Volleyball, Golf, Diving, Hockey, Cheer are just a FEW of the options offered by Forest Hills schools.</p><p>The world class fine arts center offers incredible opportunities in music, and performance art, as well as sculpture, and paining. Every year, incredibly talented artists (such as &nbsp;STOMP and the Indigo Girls) come through Forest Hills Fine Art Center giving residents the opportunity to attend small and intimate performances.</p><p>So, in answer to my question: The schools are good. They are really, really good.</p><h3>Housing Values to increase 50% in 10 years.&nbsp;</h3><p>According to Math.&nbsp;<br></p><p><strong>Part 1 of the equation: Demand</strong></p><p>Forbes ranked Grand Rapids, the best city in all of the US to raise a family in 2012 and within the Grand Rapids area, Forest Hills is arguably the most desirable place to raise a family. Given the fact that people are continuing to pro-create, it is safe to say that the demand for family friendly housing is going to steadily increase!</p><p><strong>Part 2 of the equation: Opportunity</strong></p><p>Just this year, Grand Rapids was rated the best place for property investors in 2016. In other words, the property values are the most undervalued in the nation. Once again, Forest Hills is arguably the most desirable area in Grand Rapids.</p><p>These two factors tell me that Grand Rapids housing is going to continue to catch up to pricing in other major markets over the next few years, and Forest Hills is going to lead the way.</p><p><br>Is there a place for me in Forest Hills.&nbsp;<br>… yes. yes there is.&nbsp;<br>If you think Forest Hills might be a great place to move. You are right. At the time of this writing, all of our agents live here. We would love to help you make the move!</p>

Forest Hills

Reeds at the water's edge and autumn fog on the lake at sunrise

<p>Though it’s just four miles from downtown Grand Rapids, EGR has a classic but lively vibe all its own. East Grand Rapids offers all the accessibility of city living with the addition of easy access to recreational areas and woodland trails. At the heart of East Grand Rapids is Gaslight Village, a few blocks of shops and service providers, which includes everything from dry cleaning services, to grocery stores, to Pilates and Yoga studios. And there’s no shortage of great places to eat—whether it’s for a classy sit-down meal, a cup of coffee, Chinese takeout, or frozen yogurt. Gaslight Village is also home to upscale boutiques such as the Snapdragon Boutique or Bella Furs, which boast unique items that you won’t find in a mall or department store.</p><p>In addition to these city options, East Grand Rapids has 10 parks and natural areas which include a 4.2-mile trail around Reeds Lake, popular among cyclists and runners. This route features off-road trails, sidewalks, paved pathways, and boardwalks. East Grand Rapids is a refined yet modern neighborhood that strikes the perfect balance between city life and wide open spaces.</p><h3>A Night Out in EGR&nbsp;</h3><p><br>Historic Restaurants and Modern Entertainment&nbsp;<br>For dining options, Rose’s is a must. Rose’s is perhaps the most famous dining option in East Grand Rapids. It was first opened in 1901 and is now recognized as a historic landmark. The menu demonstrates Mediterranean/Italian/Americana influences. The building itself is located right on Reeds Lake and has an enclosed patio with a beautiful view of the lake.</p><p>For entertainment, East Grand Rapids has plenty to offer, two of the most popular being the Brush Studio and the Circle Theatre. Brush Studio features “paint and sip” art classes. Grab a friend, get a group together, or go solo. Pick a date and then show up and enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer while you create the evening’s featured painting with the guidance of the class instructor—no artistic ability necessary!</p><p>In the summer, East Grand Rapids’ Circle Theater shows five main stage productions—three musicals and two plays, as well as one family-oriented Magic Circle production, which usually entails the retelling of a myth or fairytale. In all, these total sixty performances each summer! Additionally, the Circle Theater hosts many summer concerts featuring artists from a variety of genres.</p><h3>Reeds Lake&nbsp;</h3><p>A Natural Oasis in the Suburbs&nbsp;<br>Reeds Lake is a central attraction of the East Grand Rapid’s area. It’s a great place to relax or get some exercise! In total, it has 176 acres of public space, which includes many trails, parks, and beaches. The Waterfront Park features a 425ft. floating boardwalk near the shore. The largest park at Reeds Lake is called the Manhattan Park. It’s 43 acres total and includes a playground, a picnic shelter with grills and tables, beach volleyball courts, softball diamonds, tennis courts, and a soccer field. Common activities on Reeds Lake include water skiing, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and (in the summertime) enjoying the sunshine! The open recreational areas provide the perfect place for large group activities or celebrations. East Grand Rapids hosts many yachting regattas on the lake, as well as the Huntington Reeds Lake Run and a triathlon. In the summer, enjoy movie screenings and barbequing in the park, concerts, and an extravagant 4th of July celebration.</p>

East Grand Rapids

Wooden tables bridge, with perfect circular shape, leading to an autumn garden.

<h2>The city outside the city&nbsp;<br></h2><h3>A year in Rockford</h3><p>Summer begins with a bang in Rockford. When school lets out, the Start of Summer Celebration begins! The streets of downtown Rockford are transformed into carnival grounds, complete with rides, vendors, performances, and a fireworks show. On any regular summer day in Rockford, you may see fishermen casting their lines at the Rockford Dam, couples kayaking down the Rogue River, or families biking the White Pine Trail, which runs right through the heart of downtown. The summer Sidewalk Sale attracts shoppers from all over Grand Rapids looking to find a deal on high-end boutique clothing or artisan crafts. Rockford’s Famer’s Market—voted America’s favorite in 2011—takes place every Saturday morning May through October. Fresh produce of all kinds, flowers, honey, bread, and lots more make it the perfect place to pick up your regular groceries or even indulge in something special. While you’re shopping, don’t forget to stop by Rocky’s for ice cream, it’s a city favorite!</p><p>Rockford is bustling with activity in the summer, but there’s plenty to do in the winter months as well. The Santa Parade is a well-attended event which welcomes the Christmas spirit to Rockford. Trees lining the streets and along the dam are lit up with lights, and Christmas tunes play quietly from the lampposts. Winter is the perfect time to take a stroll through downtown and window-shop. If you have kids, you know kids, or you feel like a kid yourself, check out Aunt Candy’s Toy Company, (but give yourself plenty of time, there is a lot to look at!) Then, step into a local restaurant, like Ramona’s Table or Marinades Pizza for something to eat, or grab a cup of coffee from Sweetland Chocolates &amp; Coffee to warm up. Or, if you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can sign up for the Sweetheart Splash and take an icy plunge into the river for your valentine. Summer, fall, winter, spring—whatever the season, there’s always plenty to do and see in the city of Rockford, MI!</p><h3>Dining in Rockford&nbsp;</h3><p><br><strong>Ramona’s Table</strong> relocated to Rockford a few years ago, and locals were glad to add it to the collection of delicious restaurants downtown. Ramona’s menu features gourmet sandwiches and deli salads, along with some of the best desserts. Ever. Their secret? Nearly everything on the menu is made in-house and it’s always fresh. Best of all, Ramona’s patio looks out over the Rockford dam, so you can take in the view while you enjoy lunch, dinner, or cocktails.</p><p>Another new addition to Rockford is the <strong>Rockford Brewing Company. </strong>Their mission is serving quality local brews and promoting community and culture in the area. RBC is a venue for many talented local artists and musicians and a popular gather place for locals. Many of their local beers are offered for a limited time only, so check out their online beer catalog to see the selection before you go! Great beer, amazing art, and live music make Rockford Brewing Co. the perfect atmosphere for a night out!</p><p><strong>White Pine Trail&nbsp;</strong><br>Stretching 92 miles from northern Grand Rapids, through Rockford, and on to Cadillac, the White Pine Trail is Michigan’s longest trail. The section of the trail through Rockford runs along the dam on one side and city-proper on the other. The White Pine Trail is great for running, cycling, roller blading, walking dogs, etc. Whether you’re just getting in a little exercise or you’ve planned a day-trip with your family, the White Pine Trail in Rockford is the perfect place to start!</p><p>If you think Rockford could be the perfect place to find your new home, let’s get together and answer any questions you may have. We love this town and would love to have you as a neighbor.</p>

Rockford

<h3>Beauty, Luxury and Comfort….&nbsp;</h3><p>Ada Township is home to some of the most luxurious homes in Grand Rapids. The Grand River converges with the Thornapple River which runs directly through Ada and gives access to miles of waterfront property. Ada is home to some of the most influential people in West Michigan. The philanthropic efforts of the Van Andel and Meijer families is legendary and their proximity to Ada Township has helped to ensure that Ada will be a beautiful, fun, and convenient place to live for decades to come!</p><p>There are plans in the works to redevelop an enormous portion of downtown Ada to attract young families, visitors and small business. New retail and restaurants will increase the walkability of the neighborhood will certainly drive up property values.</p><p>Ada is the kind of place that you settle down. With a tight knit community and a passion for excellence, residents rarely have a reason to move!</p><h3>Living on the Thornapple&nbsp;</h3><p>Skiing, Kayaking, Fishing and Friendship&nbsp;<br>The 88 mile Thornapple River begins in Eaton County which is just southwest of lansing. It gathers briefly in the Thornapple Lake before meandering through Hastings, Middleville, and Caledonia. As it approaches Ada, the Thornapple widens into a truly magnificent river with enough width and length that homeowners on the river can participate in all of the activities that waterfront property can offer. This all-sports river has everything that you would find in Michigan’s premium lakes.</p><p>The Thornapple continues it’s unusual northward journey until it joins the Grand River just on the north side of Ada. The Grand then continues on through downtown Grand Rapids, and East to the Big Lake. (Third Coast)</p><p>The section of river that runs into Ada, is one of the most beautiful places in all of West Michigan. Riverfront property on the Thornapple represents community, family, beauty and luxury all at once. These properties are always in demand. If you happen to own one, you are sitting on some of the best land in West Michigan. If you happen to want one, you should get on a list! These properties don’t come for sale frequently, and when they do, they don’t stay on the market long. If you are interested, you should find someone who knows the area and will keep on the look out of you! Hint: We are very good at this.</p><h3>Are you ready for the best?&nbsp;</h3><p>Ada is it. Let us help you find your SweetSpot.&nbsp;<br>Whether it’s lakefront property or small town living you are looking for. We would love to help. Drop us a line and we can get working on finding your SweetSpot today!</p>

Ada Village

<h2>Welcome to one of the Greatest Cities in America!&nbsp;</h2><p><br>If you are already convinced that Grand Rapids is the place for you, or if you are moving here for a job or for family, then you will want to check out our neighborhood pages which are designed to help you find the perfect place to live in Grand Rapids.</p><p>On the other hand, if you are considering Grand Rapids amongst a number of other potential locations, then read on to discover why you should move it to the very top of your list! Grand Rapids is named for the Grand River Rapids that once rushed through the downtown core, bringing logs and people into the city. Since that time, the river has become one of Grand Rapids’s most under-utilized assets. However, in recent years, efforts to restore the rapids to their original state have begun in earnest.</p><p>The River is becoming a symbol of the ingenuity and the attitude of the people who live in Grand Rapids. We love our city and we are continually looking for ways to make it better. Old buildings get renovated. New Buildings are built. Better Highways are planned for. Better Transportation is coming. The river is better. The sports teams are getting better! Sidenote:</p><p>Dear franchise owners. Please bring your professional sports team to Grand Rapids. &nbsp;It is the one thing we lack… although I think that we might just create our own with the Boys in Blue! in the meantime, my hat is off to the Griffins and the Whitecaps!</p><h2>Big City&nbsp;</h2><p>Art, Music, Sport, Dance, Recreation, Science, Food&nbsp;<br>If you come to live in Grand Rapids from a big city, there are 4 major things that you can expect to miss out on. Smog, Noise,Traffic and Crime. We apologize to those of you who are enamored by these aspects of City Life. If you cannot live without these 4 things, then you probably don’t want to live in Grand Rapids.</p><p>On the other hand, if you are looking for a city where it is easy to find work, come live in Grand Rapids. Our unemployment rate is consistently amongst the lowest in the nation due to the diversity of industry and our economic strength. We do a lot of furniture, and a lot of medical. We dabble in auto but we don’t depend on it like Detroit. Tech is up and coming with some new incubators that have recently launched.</p><p>If you are looking for a city with a heartbeat, come live in Grand Rapids! Artists and Musicians thrive here due to incredible support of some of our cities most influential business’. If you haven’t heard of ArtPrize…. click the link. It’s crazy.</p><p>If you like eating. You might want to live in Grand Rapids. Ok….this is a passion of mine, and seriously, I would advise anyone who loves food to just pack their belongings and move here right now. I don’t know how it happened, but Grand Rapids has become a destination for all things food. And wine. And Beer.</p><p>If you are moving for Work or Play, Grand Rapids has you covered! Oh! I nearly forgot! We were listed as the #1 place for families by Forbes Magazine… and ALSO #1 place to invest in property. &nbsp;Conclusion – You should live in Grand Rapids where everything is awesome. …. and this lake.</p><h2>Small Town&nbsp;</h2><p>Safety, Community, Friendly, Fun&nbsp;<br>Make no mistake, Grand Rapids is a Big City. It has everything that you would expect to find in a thriving Metropolitan area, BUT – Grand Rapids hasn’t lost it’s sense of small town community! Grand Rapids is bustling… not busy. It’s friendly, not fast. It’s laid back and it’s not likely you will get lost.</p><p>It isn’t a perfect city, but for a city of our size, it is very safe, very friendly and very fun. &nbsp;If small town is your thing, then you will want to check out some of the surrounding neighborhoods such as Ada, or Forest Hills.</p><p>If all of this doesn’t make you want to live in Grand Rapids, I don’t know what will. But maybe this. or this.</p><p>Here is a small sampling of the properties available right now in Grand Rapids.</p><p>Are you ready to make the move?&nbsp;<br>We know the city, and we love it….and we love helping other people to fall in love with it. So let us help you to come and LIVE in Grand Rapids!</p>

Greatest Cities in America!

Grand Rapids Real Estate