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Big Rapids, MI Real Estate News

By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Every month the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce sponser events to help promote area businesses. We have both Rise and Shine events in the morning and Business After Hours in the late afternoon. This months Rse and Shine Event was at Jordan-Balkema Law Office right on Maple Street just East of Michigan. What a beautiful office and with Pere Marquette Catering on the job it was a great start to my day. With all the baby boomers getting ready to retire Elder Law is becoming more important. The Elder Law professionals at Jordan Balkema Elder Law Center (JBELC), are dedicated to providing intelligent, compassionate and timely information about estate planning, probate, Medicaid and all other issues pertaining to elder law. Todd Balkema was our speaker and his entire crew was there ea...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Today, October 26, 2010 the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for a ribbon cutting at Mighty Muffler located right on Northland Dr in Big Rapids. Brian Hatchew has been in business now about 6 months and reports they are doing well. They do all automotive and truck exhausts including some custom work. They have a website for more info. You can find it Here. They are open Monday through Friday 8am-5:30pm and Saturday 8am to 12pm. Welcome to Big Rapids Brian and Sandy. Best of luck in all you do and thanks for reading.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Every month the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce host events for its members to better network together. One of these events is the Business After Hours and this month we had an opportunity to visit Hospice of Michigan in it's Big Rapids location. The speakers for Hospice filled us in on what Hospice is about and how it helps people in their time of need. Their website is a great place to learn more about Hospice and how they work. You can check them out at Hospice of Michigan. If you would like to have your place featured for one of our events contact the Chamber of Commerce (231) 796-7649 and maybe we will see you next month.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Friday October 22, 2010 Wenger Insurance clebrated another location for their company by holding a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony here in Big Rapids, MI. Wenger has been in business for over 80 years and already has a successful operation in the Baldwin, MI area and decided to expand into the Big Rapids, MI marketplace. Shows a great committment to a community when in these tough economic times they are adding jobs to our area. They offer a full line of insurance products from home/business to health insurance at very competitive rates. Check them out on their website at Wenger Agency. Seth and Ernie will always work hard to be your agency. Best of Luck in all you do and thanks for reading.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Lake Osceola State Bank celerbated the opening of another branch office in Big Rapids, MI with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony hosted by the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce. Ribbon Cuttings are another great benefit to belonging to the Chamber. While LOSB already has an office in Big Rapids, this location on Perry Street offers a drive thru and convenience to both the Expressway and Ferris State University. Representatives of the bank spoke about how theis branch came to be. LOSB has a great variety of loan products for both presonal and business lines. Check out their website at Lake Osceola State Bank. Best of luck in all you do and thanks for reading.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
The Mecosta Osceola Intermediate School District celebrated the opening of it's addition to Miller Wing with a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday Oct 21, 2010. The 15,000 sq. ft. addition will also be used for Allied Health, Public Safety and Computer Aided Design programs. Ribbon cuttings are another great benefit offered by the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce. After the ribbon cutting we were treated to a luncheon by the Culinary Arts department. I had no idea they offered maels and was extremely impressed by the food and overall dining experience. I would rate these guys right up there with the best this area has to offer. What surprised me even more was to find out it is open to the public. Check out their website for more info MOISD. Best of luck in all you do and thanks for ...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
When I was doing my morning ritual of reading the ActiveRain posts I came across a post by Karen Crowson entitled Under the Sink- Blog About Anything Challenge . It sounded like fun so I decided to see what lurked beneath my sink as it is an area rarely looked at. If you show homes in a rural setting one thing that is often forgotten during a showing is the quality of the well water. I bought my house long before becoming a Realtor® and one thing that never hit me was to check the water for both taste and chemicals. In the years since I have purchased thousands of dollars of bottled water and am reminded every time I do the laundry that I should have checked the water better. The Challenge to Blog About Anything reminded me yet again when I looked under my sink and the first thing that ...
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By Gary White~Grand Rapids Home Selling Pro Call: 616-821-9375, Real Estate Services You can Trust!
(Flexit Realty "Flexible Home Selling Solutions")
Ever wonder why people make such foolish home selling decisions?  Most of the time it is because they are not given the whole picture of their choices.  They don't take the time to investigate because they are stressed, beat down and just ready to fold.  When dealing with your largest personal asset take a breath before making that final decision that could change your economic life for years. I recently met a couple that had been deprived of the use of their home even though they still legally owned it. The lender's representative told the owners that the bank had paid the taxes and now was claiming the property...the owners would have to move. Let's step back one second so you know they both had lost their jobs and had missed three house payments.  Let's also consider they purchased t...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Being a Chamber member we are often reminded to buy local here in Big Rapids. We even have a Band of Locals Website to help people find where they can grab extra good deals. Here it is: Band of Locals. What a great program. You pay $10 for a Blue wrist band and it entitles you to all sorts of savings. Some deals like Preferred Office Machines who offer 1/2 off copying could save hundreds of $$$ depending on how many copies you need and John Milan is always eager to help. Shopping local isn' just for the stores either. When I buy Jalapeno Brats from Snyder's Market it is because I have never in my life found better tasting brats. They also have the best pulled pork and smoked brisket anywhere. Buying local keeps the money working in and around your community. The lure of the big box stor...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Every Wednesday in Big Rapids right behind the Middle School on N. Michigan the Big Rapids Bandshell Summer Concert has been doing free concerts. Free Wheelin was amazing and lst week Susan Morris and BlueMonk Jazzed it up. This week's must see event is Wednesday, Aug 4, 2010 7pm - 8:30pm. Gypsy Switch featuring Kelly Quinn will be performing for you live at the Band Shell. Should be another huge success. All concerts are free and open to the public so no reason to not stop by and enjoy. Bring a lawn chair and a beverage and enjoy. See you there.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
The Big Rapids Wheels in the Field car show will be held Saturday, July 31, 2010 9am thru Sunday, August 01, 2010 10am right here at the Big Rapids Fairgrounds, bring the whole family to go back in time with these classic cars. Last year it was a great event and this year looks to be even better. Great way to spend the day going back in time and spend the day with the family. See you there.  
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
With the hot days of summer upon us a "Must Do" when in Big Rapids is to check out our community pool. The City of Big Rapids operates the Charles E. Fairman Community Pool from mid June to mid August. Swimming Lessons are provided at a nominal charge. If you cannot afford lessons, please check with the pool staff for scholarships. Lessons are available five days per week for five weeks. Located in the 100 block of Hutchinson Street it features the community swimming and picnic area with grills and a hiking area. The pool is "Z" shaped and is over 10,000 sq ft. It ranges from 2 1/2 feet to 10 feet. Open Swim is held weekdays when the pool is open from 1:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. Weekend hours are from 1:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. What a great way to spend the day...
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By Gary White~Grand Rapids Home Selling Pro Call: 616-821-9375, Real Estate Services You can Trust!
(Flexit Realty "Flexible Home Selling Solutions")
  Listing properties can be a challenge in a buyers’ market.  Some properties have special issues (most) like a neighbor or repairs required, location, schools or other factor that can make the home more difficult to sell. Very seldom do I get a listing where the seller says the home is haunted and the ghost only appears to men!  Now before you decide I flipped my cracker, I do believe in some form of energy and the possibility of communicating with those long gone souls.  How much I believe is on a case by case basis!  My mom told me she would haunt me if I did certain things…like sharing she wore dentures! My wife swears she will haunt me if I get married again if something happens to her…so I do have some reasons to be careful. The seller was very serious about the extra tenant that ...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
I just left the Big Rapids Summer Concert Series at the Band Shell behind the Middle School right on Michigan Ave. This week the featured Free Wheelin', a bluegrass band that did a fantastic job. There was a great mix of bluegrass music mixed in with some humor and singing. As I walked up they played a little song called "Pot Bellied Man". I loved it. The band has four players. Marc Conley on banjo,Dan Seabolt on fiddle, Dave Seabolt guitar and Buck Robinson on the dog house base! I was literally amazed at the tempo of the songs. My fingers would have been bleeding to try and keep up with these guys. To sum it up in one word I would say Amazing. Here's a little description from their FaceBook page: Free Wheelin has been together for over25 years and has opened for such names as the Nit...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Another great "To Do" would be Wednesday July 21st stopping by for a free concert by Free Wheelin'. Concert will be at the Big Rapids band shell, which is right behind the middle school or across the foot bridge from Hemlock Park. Should be a great time and free. Marc Conley, Dave and Dan Seabolt and Buck Robinson are sure to impress you with their snappy Bluegrass. This event is sponsroed by local business and the city of Big Rapids and is free to the public so bring a lawn chair and have fun! This is a rain or shine event in case of rain the concert will be held indoors in the concert room at THE GATE on Perry St next to Staples. Hope to see you there. Best of luck in all you do and thanks for reading.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
This year, July 23rd through the 25th marks the 12th annual Antique Tractor and Gas Engine show hosted by the Big Rapids Antique Farm & Power Club. This event is an all day family outing for all featuring John Deere tractors and equipment, along with a variety of antique tractors, cars, trucks & equipment many with working exhibits. Besides tractor pulls, kids games, parades, flea market, bake sale and a raffle there is always taking in the antique equipment and listening to how things were. Adult admission is $3 (good for 3 days) Children under 12 are Free with paying adult. Located at 15422 Old Millpond Road, Big Rapids, MI. From downtown go East on Maple to the red light by Curries BP and turn right on M20. Folow that to when the road curves left the Farm & Power Club is straight ahe...
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Another great "To Do" is the 2010 Freedom AirFest. This year it will be held at the Roben-Hood Airport on 18 Mile Rd Terminal Building on Saturday, July 17, 2010. People from all over Michigan and surrounding states arrive in colorful and interesting types of planes. Area residents are invited to join the flyer's to share in fun and fellowship at the airport. There is also a Annual Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show held during the AirFest right at the hangers on 18 Mile just North of Big Rapids. The AirFest features plane rides, carnival games, Stormy the magician and even a "Fly In" Pancake breakfast. Looks to be another great year. Stop by and we might see you there. Best of Luck in all you do.  
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Well it is time for the big "To Do" for Big Rapids. The Mecosta County Free Fair started today. Located just north of twon on West avenue the fairgrounds is alive this afternoon with rides for everyone and 4H fun for the whole family. If that isn't enough at 7PM you can enjoy some AWWL Big Time Wrestling. Later this week there is harness racing, figure 8 racing, demo derby, burn outs, lawn mower derby and even the Super Kicker Rodeo. If you are in the area check it out. We might see you there. Best of luck in all you do and thanks for reading.  
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
Both the Parade and the Fireworks will be on the 4th this year in Big Rapids. The parade line-up begins at the Big Rapids Middle School parking lot, and will proceed down Michigan going east to Pine then south on Warren and ending on Linden. Starts at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Gives you time to grab dinner at the Blue Cow before heading out to watch fireworks at the Mecosta County Fairgrounds at dusk. Last year it was a great show and I am sure this years will be as good if not better. If you want to see more Fireworks the Village of Mecosta has their fireworks show on the 3rd of July right at the curve in Mecosta. Enjoy the holiday and be safe.
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By Randy Ostrander, Real Estate Broker, Serving Big Rapids and West Central MI
(Lake and Lodge Realty LLC )
One of the things I love about Big Rapids is there is always something to do. I often post area to do's and for those who enjoy listening to music we have a few to share. For the next couple Wednesday's starting with June 30th at 7PM at the Band Shell behind the Middle School you can enjoy the FSU Community Summer Concerts. These weeks the FSU Summer Band will be playing. What a great way to spend the evening with no charge to listen. Fridays are a double header for music fans. There is music in Pocket Park at noon. Pocket Park is located next to Chemical Bank in downtown Big Rapids. Every week they feature hot area talent. During the Street work they will be across the street in the Farmer's Market area. Another great free event. Later in the day around 7PM Mecosta presents Music on t...
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