Month: January 2022

Some Highlights

• According to a Gallup poll, real estate has been rated the best long-term investment for eight years in a row.
• Real estate tops the list because you’re not just buying a place to call home – you’re investing in your future. Real estate is typically considered a stable and secure asset that can grow in value over time.
• Let’s connect today if you’re ready to make real estate your best investment this year.

To time travel in Detroit, all you need is a few tokens. Ready Player One is an arcade bar packed with throwback games that bring back the fun of the ’80s and ’90s. The bar’s fun décor and themed drinks ensure a stop here is a big win. Here’s what you need to know to get ready for a trip to Michigan’s Ready Player One.

The arcade is located in tucked into the heart of Detroit in the basement of the Globe Tobacco Building. It has become one of the city’s hidden gems.

The arcade was founded in 2017 by two friends who were avid gamers. They decided Detroit needed a new arcade bar and Ready Player One was born!

Step inside and you’ll be transported back a couple of decades. You may see some games that you haven’t played in years. They are just as fun as you remember!

The bar serves plenty of great beverages. You don’t have to settle for a juice box like you did as a kid – they have spiked drink pouches that will fuel your gaming for hours. Choose from flavors like Purple Power Punch, Mango Sunrise, and Sonic Blue!

There are dozens of throwback games to choose from, including Ms. Pac-Man, Tetris, and Commando.

If you’re a pinball player, you’ll have a very good time at Ready Player One. They have a lot of tempting options. All you need is a drink and some tokens!

Ready Player One is open Wednesday-Sunday and is open late. See the current hours and other details here. If analog games are more your thing, you might want to grab a seat and play one of the fun board games at the Card Table.

The post Travel Back To The ’80s At Ready Player One, A Retro-Themed Adult Arcade In Michigan appeared first on Only In Your State.

There was a time when much of Michigan was covered by gorgeous and wild virgin timber. While the 1800s logging era transformed the state’s landscape, there are still some places that appear much as they did before Europeans arrived. One of those spots is Hartwick Pines State Park. The park contains some remnant old-growth forest and a hike through the park will take you across the serene AuSable River. Here’s why this is a hike you need to experience.

The trail is located in Hartwick Pines State Park, a 9,700-acre state park in the lower peninsula of Michigan. It’s located in Crawford County near Grayling and it’s about three hours north of Detroit.

The park is connected to Michigan’s logging history. The area was heavily logged but in the 1920s, a logging company preserved a section as a memorial to the logging industry. The section of white pines and red pines is known as the Hartwick Pines. It’s surrounded by thousands of acres of second-growth forest.

The park has the feel of Michigan before the logging era. The AuSable River Trail is a path that introduces hikers to the forest’s beauty.

The trail is 3.3 miles in length and it travels through an area of towering trees.

The trail crosses the AuSable River twice, via small bridges. The river, which means “sand river” in French, is considered one of the best trout fisheries east of the Rockies.

The forest is incredibly fragrant and you’ll hike over a bed of soft pine needles. The trail can become soft and muddy at times so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

With the exception of one steep climb the trail is fairly flat – it’s a relatively easy hike that can be completed in about an hour. Because the trail is in a state park, you’ll need a Michigan Recreation passport to get to the trail. Learn more about the park here. If you love easy but scenic hikes, here are some more trails that won’t disappoint.

The post An Easy But Gorgeous Hike, AuSable River Trail Leads To A Little-Known River In Michigan appeared first on Only In Your State.

One key question that’s top of mind for homebuyers this year is: why is it so hard to find a house to buy? The truth is, we’re in the ultimate sellers’ market, so real estate is ultra-competitive for buyers right now. The number of buyers searching for a home greatly outweighs how many homes are available for sale.

While low inventory in the housing market isn’t new, it’s a challenge that continues to grow over time. Here’s a look at two reasons why today’s housing supply is low and what that means for you.

1. New Home Construction Fell Behind for Several Years

The graph below shows new home construction for single-family homes over the past five decades, including the long-term average for housing units completed. Builders exceeded that average during the housing bubble (shown in red on the graph). The result was an oversupply of homes on the market, so home values declined. That was one of the factors that led to the housing crash back in 2008.

Since then, the level of new home construction has fallen off. For the last 13 straight years, builders haven’t been able to construct enough homes to meet the historical average (as illustrated in green on the graph). That underbuilding left us with a multi-year inventory deficit going into the pandemic.

2. The Pandemic’s Impact on the Housing Market

Then, when the pandemic hit, it fueled a renewed appreciation and focus on the meaning of home. Having a safe space to live, work, school, and exercise became even more important for Americans throughout the country. So, as mortgage rates dropped to at or below 3%, buyers eagerly entered the market looking to capitalize on those low rates to secure a home that would fulfill their changing needs. At the same time, sellers hesitated to put their houses on the market as concerns about the pandemic mounted.

The result? The number of homes available for sale dropped even further. A recent article from realtor.com explains:

“Last month, the number of home listings dropped 26.8% compared with the same time a year earlier. This meant there were about 177,000 fewer homes listed in what’s already typically a slower month due to the holidays and colder weather. . . .”

What Does All of This Mean for You?

For a buyer, low inventory can be a challenge. You want to find the home of your dreams, and you don’t want to settle. But what if there just aren’t that many homes to choose from?

There is some good news. Experts are projecting more homes will soon become available thanks to sellers re-entering the market. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, shares this hope, but offers perspective:

“We expect that we’ll start to see a turnaround and inventory will stabilize and start to go up a little bit in 2022. . . . But that means we’re looking at inventory levels of roughly half of what we saw before the pandemic. For buyers, the market is likely to continue to move fast. If you see a home you like, you want to jump on it right away.”

Basically, inventory is still low, even though more homes are coming. But you shouldn’t put your plans on hold because you’re waiting for those additional houses to hit the market.  Instead, stick with your search and persevere through today’s low inventory. You can find your next home if you’re patient and focused.

Remember your goals and why finding a home is so important. Those things should be the driving force behind your search. Share them with your agent and be clear about your priorities. Your trusted advisor is your greatest support as you navigate today’s low housing supply to find the home of your dreams.

Bottom Line 

If you’re planning to buy this year, the key to success will be patience given today’s low inventory. Let’s connect to discuss what’s happening in our area, what homes are available, and why it’s still worthwhile to prioritize your home search today.

When you’re ready for an unforgettable overnight adventure, Michigan has you covered. Throughout the state, curious adventurers can appreciate pretty campgrounds, opulent hotels, and everything in between. If you’re on the hunt for the ideal combination of history, charm, and access to natural beauty, we’ve got the ideal spot in mind. Round up the family and step aboard for memories at this caboose hotel in Michigan.

The marvelous Caboose Inn is located off Conger Street in the lakeside town of South Haven.

There are actually two separate cabooses here, each with its own unique touches and charms. The Caboose Inn operates as part of the broader Harbor Inn, which offers an array of suites and downtown stays.

When you’re looking for something genuinely special, though, you can’t go wrong with one of these authentic 1920s cabooses. Both sit in the vicinity of the Depot, which once served as the town’s railroad station.

Caboose #1 is known as the Louisville/Nashville and it offers access to a fun conductor’s perch, which proves popular with guests of all ages. It features a queen bed, couch, full bath, kitchenette, and more.

If you opt for Caboose #2, you’ll be staying in an original train car that was built for the Illinois Central Railroad. Check out a screened porch, futon, queen bed, full bath, and gorgeous wooded interior.

Regardless of which caboose you select, you’ll be completely charmed by this welcoming spot. When the weather is hot, guests can even make use of the on-site swimming pool and catch a few rays of sun.

Of course, the Caboose Inn’s convenient location is another draw. Visitors will enjoy walkable access to downtown South Haven, the Black River, and beachfront beauty along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a romantic getaway or seeking a family excursion, you’ll find it easy to fall in love with the Caboose Inn. History and modern comforts meet here in the most wonderful way.

For additional information about the Caboose Inn and the broader Harbor Inn, including booking details, click here. Have you been lucky enough to spend the night at this caboose hotel in Michigan during previous vacations? Share your memories with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another unforgettable lodging spot by filling out our nomination form here. 

Searching for another interesting place to stay? You’ll want to read about this picturesque state park lodge in Michigan.

The post Spend The Night In An Authentic 1920s Railroad Caboose Near The Shores Of Lake Michigan appeared first on Only In Your State.

Last week, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac jumped from 3.22% to 3.45%. That’s the highest point it’s been in almost two years. If you’re thinking about buying a home, this news may have come as a bit of a shock. But the truth is, it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Experts have been calling for rates to rise in their 2022 projections, and the forecast is now becoming a reality. Here’s a look at the projections from Freddie Mac for this year:

• Q1 2022: 3.4%
• Q2 2022: 3.5%
• Q3 2022: 3.6%
• Q4 2022: 3.7%

As the numbers show, this jump in rates is in line with the expectations from Freddie Mac. And what they also indicate is that mortgage rates are projected to continue climbing throughout the year. But should you be worried about rising mortgage rates? What does that really mean for you?

As rates increase even modestly, they impact your monthly mortgage payment and overall affordability. If you’re looking to buy a home, rising mortgage rates should be an incentive to act sooner rather than later.

The good news is, even though rates are climbing, they’re still worth taking advantage of. Historical data shows that today’s rate, even at 3.45%, is still well below the average for each of the last five decades (see chart below):

That means you still have a great opportunity to buy now with a rate that’s better than what your loved ones may have paid in decades past. If you buy a home while rates are in the mid-3s, your monthly mortgage payment will be locked in at that rate for the life of your loan. As you can see from the chart above, a lot can change in that time frame. Buying now is a great way to protect yourself from rising costs and future rate increases while also securing your payment amount for the long term.

Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Forecasting at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“Mortgage rates surged in the second week of the new year. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 3.45% from 3.22% the previous week. If inflation continues to grow at the current pace, rates will move up even faster in the following months.”

Bottom Line

Mortgage rates are increasing, and they’re forecast to be even higher by the end of 2022. If you’re planning to buy this year, acting soon may be your most affordable option. Let’s connect to start the homebuying process today.

Whether or not you’re a full-blown history buff, there’s something undeniably fun about setting foot inside a quirky and educational museum. Most of us associate museums with expensive art pieces or even incredible fossils, but one fun spot here in the Great Lakes State stands out in the most wonderful way. As you look for your next family-friendly adventure, consider this fun telephone museum in Michigan.

The Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum is located in the small town of Montrose.

When you’re looking for a special place to visit with loved ones, this one-of-a-kind museum is so worth checking out. By the time you’re done here, you’ll be loaded with all sorts of unforeseen knowledge.

From the outside, the museum is unassuming and might not catch your eye. Inside, though, you’ll find a genuinely amazing collection of telephones and phone accessories from throughout the generations.

As you explore the on-site exhibits, you’ll see phones dating back the late 1800s, when telephone technology was a brand new innovation. For younger visitors, even the most modern landlines will prove impressive.

If that weren’t enough, the museum is home to the world’s largest collection of character phones and vintage enamel Telephone Pioneer pins. This underappreciated slice of history certainly deserves a closer look.

Chat with friendly staff members, who will happily assist you in navigating the various displays. From rotary phones to operators to the development of cellular technology, the breadth of information here is wide.

Snap a few photos of the most unique telephones or take part in a handful of interactive exhibits. Amid all the phone-centric information, you’ll also find details and artifacts about the history of Montrose itself.

The next time you’re looking for an out-of-the-box family excursion, hop in the car and make your way to the Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum. This unforgettable locale is calling your name.

For further details about this delightful telephone museum in Michigan, click here. Have you and your loved ones been lucky enough to tour this spot during previous visits to the area? What did you learn during your visit? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another fun museum in Michigan by filling out our nomination form here.

If you’re still seeking adventure, you’ll want to check out this family-friendly road trip in Michigan.

The post Michigan Has An Entire Museum Dedicated To Telephones And It’s As Awesome As You’d Think appeared first on Only In Your State.

Are you ready to take your fun to the next level – literally? Whether you’re feeling especially adventurous, seeking a romantic outing, or simply searching for the most unique way to appreciate the marvels of the Motor City, we’ve got you covered. You might be used to seeing the many delights of the D from the ground, but hopping on one of these incredible Detroit helicopter tours will take you on the adventure of a lifetime.

My Flight Helicopter Tours operates and departs from Detroit City Airport on Conner Street.

When you’re searching for the ultimate high-flying adventure, this unique company has you covered. My Flight offers truly unbeatable tours of the Motor City for the entire family from aboard a bonafide chopper.

There are several flight options to choose from, with tours suitable for every age and interest. If you’re seeking something simple, try the Quick Hop tour, which highlights a handful of notable locations.

Looking for a longer and even more scenic in-air experience? Opt for the breathtaking Detroit Skyline tour, which can even be appreciated at night for an additional fee – talk about a magical experience.

Catch impressive views of a true Detroit landmark aboard the Ambassador Bridge tour or stir up some romance when Valentine’s Day rolls around with a champagne inclusive holiday helicopter tour.

When you’re seeking the ultimate experience, it’s impossible to go wrong with the Big D tour. At a rate of $300 per person, it certainly isn’t cheap – but you’ll cover nearly every iconic section of the Motor City.

During your experience, you can rest assured that safety is of the utmost importance. Prior to takeoff, every passenger will receive a safety briefing and have the opportunity to ask questions of knowledgeable staff.

As you prepare for your next grand and original outing here in the Motor City, turn your eyes to the sky. After all, with help from My Flight, you could be soaring high above the streets of Detroit in no time at all.

To learn more about these amazing Detroit helicopter tours, click here. Have you been fortunate enough to see Detroit from the air during a previous tour? Share your experiences and photos with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another one-of-a-kind Motor City adventure by completing our official nomination form here.

If you’re looking for more on-the-ground fun, read about this natural wonders road trip around Detroit.

The post Most People Have No Idea You Can Do This One Awesome Activity In Detroit appeared first on Only In Your State.

Are you ready to embrace the wonders of Michigan, both natural and manmade? Our beloved state is home to all sorts of impressive landmarks, whether you’re partial to outdoor attractions, unique buildings, or something in between. If you’re eager to explore a handful of the most iconic and fascinating destinations here in the Great Lakes State, we’ve got you covered. Take a spin along our Michigan landmarks road trip.

Note: for the sake of driving time, we recommend tackling this trip over the course of a long weekend or even extending it into a full vacation to make the most of your adventure. To access an editable version of our route map, click here.

1. Belle Isle

When tourists arrive in Detroit, many are keen to explore Greektown, attend a sporting event, or learn about the history of Motown music. While all these options are absolutely worthwhile, we love spending time on the beautiful Belle Isle. This island park takes visitors on a whimsical adventure with its historic aquarium, Detroit River views, stunning conservatory, hiking spaces, playgrounds, fountain area, and so much more. You’ll have to pay a small fee to enter the park, but the memories you’ll make on Belle Isle are priceless.

2. The Big House

Whether or not you’re a fan of the University of Michigan Wolverines, a trip to Michigan Stadium (“the Big House”) belongs on your bucket list. There’s something inexplicably magical about stepping into this gargantuan stadium, which boasts the title of America’s largest stadium and the third-largest stadium in the entire world. With a capacity of 107,601 people, the Big House is a manmade marvel – and even a drive by its exterior will captivate you.

3. Michigan State Capitol Building

You don’t have to be a political buff to appreciate the sheer architectural beauty of the Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing, which has stood since 1878. This gorgeous structure features a Renaissance Revival style and stands 267 feet tall – and you’ll surely want to spend time basking in its splendor. Whether you’re marveling at colorful paintings within the interior dome or simply appreciating the building’s exterior grandeur, you’ll be impressed.

4. Big Red Lighthouse

Known officially as the Holland Harbor Lighthouse, this eye-catching landmark sits along the shores of Lake Michigan and stands out among the surrounding sand and dune grass. Since its initial opening in 1872, “Big Red” has become nothing short of iconic for visitors to the beaches of Holland. While the lighthouse itself is no longer publicly accessible, it can still be viewed and appreciated from Holland State Park, which bustles with activity in the summer and makes for a unique strolling spot in the winter months.

5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

No matter how many times you’ve seen Sleeping Bear Dunes, you’ll almost certainly find yourself enchanted by this breathtaking spot. Situated along the impossibly blue waters of Lake Michigan, the dunes themselves tower high above the water and offer everything from hiking trails to overlooks that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. For our favorite view of the shoreline, check out the Empire Bluff Trail.

6. Mackinac Bridge

No tour of Michigan’s iconic landmarks is complete without an experience at the Mackinac Bridge, sometimes referred to as the Mighty Mac. Since its grand opening in 1957, the bridge has enhanced travel between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan and offered drivers the chance to experience the Straits of Mackinac from above. At a whopping 26,372 feet, the bridge is decidedly sprawling – and we firmly believe that every Michigander should cross it at least a few times.

7. Tahquamenon Falls

While we could list dozens upon dozens of iconic spots in the Upper Peninsula, our space is limited for the purposes of this road trip – so we went with a true classic. Tahquamenon Falls, which actually consists of two impressive waterfalls, will sweep you away on a natural adventure unlike any other in the state of Michigan. Whether you drop by in the midst of summer heat, take a stroll when fall colors bloom, or appreciate the frozen falls in all their icy glory, you’ll be overwhelmed by this destination’s beauty.

Have you and your loved ones checked out any of the places on our Michigan landmarks road trip? We know our list only scratches the surface, so let us know what we should include in our future articles. Share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or make an official recommendation by completing our nomination form here.

If you’re searching for even more adventure, read about these exciting treetop adventures in Michigan.

The post This Epic Road Trip Leads To 7 Iconic Landmarks In Michigan appeared first on Only In Your State.

When you’re feeling hungry, the list of restaurants to try here in the Great Lakes State is seemingly endless. You might opt for an upscale seafood restaurant, a tiny waterfront cafe, or a chain eatery that satisfies your every craving. If you’d like to try something truly original, though, one barn restaurant in Michigan certainly deserves your attention. Round up a few hungry loved ones and head out for a bite to eat.

The Barn is located along Torrey Road in the town of Fenton, which sits in Genesee County.

Whether you’re seeking a new favorite dinner spot or simply hoping to grab a few drinks with friends, this fun locale certainly fits the bill. It’s easy to understand why the Barn has become a favorite hangout for locals.

As its name implies, The Barn features a barn-inspired design – but that’s not where the story ends. The restaurant is actually constructed using reclaimed wood from an 1863 barn that once stood nearby.

While the present style of the building is undeniably modern, there’s something amazing about dining amid pieces of a long-gone era. Upon stepping inside, you’ll appreciate the confluence of past and present.

Of course, the building’s history is just part of its charm. The Barn also boasts an inventive California surfing-inspired theme, which makes for a truly creative and upbeat place to dine and sip drinks.

Many guests stop by to watch sporting events, while others stop in with family and friends for a delicious meal. The menu here ranges from brunch options to standard dinner fare to late night snacks and more.

Dig into a mouthwatering burger with all the fixings, opt for a build-your-own macaroni bowl, try a tasty french bread pizza, or embrace the eatery’s surf theme by ordering a plate of fresh fish and chips.

If that weren’t enough, The Barn offers opportunities for on-site curling, broomball, ice skating, and more at its awesome ice rink and heated outdoor patio area. This is so much more than a restaurant and bar.

Whether you’re fascinated by local history, enamored with California surf culture, or simply seeking a fun place to get away from it all, this barn restaurant in Michigan delivers. You’ve just found a new favorite.

For additional information about the Barn, including full food and drink menus, click here. Have you attended an event or enjoyed a meal at this one-of-a-kind barn restaurant in Michigan during previous outings with loved ones? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another top dining option by filling out our official nomination form here.

Is your mouth still watering? You might want to read about this nostalgic roadside restaurant in Michigan.

The post There’s A Delicious Restaurant Hiding Inside This Unique Michigan Barn That’s Begging For A Visit appeared first on Only In Your State.