The Reinhart Blog

 This week we are featuring Melissa VanDam’s listing — 505 East Huron, #409, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104

Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
Chic brick high-rise condominium in Sloan Plaza.Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
This two bedroom and two bathroom condo is in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. It has a granite and cherry kitchen with breakfast bar. Outside it has two patios and two parking spaces included. Too good to pass up!
Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
With a walk score of 97 out of 100, this downtown Ann Arbor home is around the corner from restaurants and entertainment. Inside the home, you will enjoy unobstructed views.

Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
The unit was completely gutted about 5 years and now features an updated kitchen, hardwood flooring, a lovely master suite with spacious walk in closet, soaking tub, built-ins and more.Q. Does the community have any amenities we should know about?
Secure and safe, this building provides a door man and reserved parking for its residents.

Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
This unit comes with one covered and one additional designated parking space and a storage unit. Amenities include two terraces, one with a privacy screen of greenery and two retractable awnings.Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
This location puts all of Ann Arbor at your fingertips while being in a quiet and well-maintained building. Friends or family can easily visit you for food, fun, or football and use the provided guest parking spaces.

For more information about 3409 Ferry Street, Ann Arbor, MI or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact MelissaVanDam at 734-417-1581.

Looking for homes for sale in Ann Arbor?

After a sunny spring and summer, September is the beginning for fall, football and a new school year. September in the Ann Arbor area means it is time for apple picking, Oktoberfest and many other spectacular events.

Dexter Cider Mill
August – November

The Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest continuously operating Cider Mill in Michigan. Cited by “Hour Detroit” magazine as one of the 101 places to visit in the greater Metropolitan area. Today cider is made the same way it was made 120 years ago by using an oak rack press. The Dexter Cider Mill is open Wednesday – Sunday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. There are no admissions or parking fees.

University of Michigan Football
September – November

Every fall with the return of the school year brings the return of football season. Whether you are a die hard fan or just happen to be in town visiting, the football games make an impression. During the weekends when a game is played at home expect large crowds and allow extra time for your commute throughout the city.  To see the full schedule click here.

Eastern Michigan University Football
September – November

Eastern Michigan University has had a college football team since 1891. They compete in Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the Mid-American Conference. The Eastern Michigan University football team kicks off its 126th season on the gridiron Friday, September 1, 2017. Click here for a full schedule.

Wiard’s Orchards and Country Fair
September – November

Wiard’s Orchards and Country Fair offers entertainment for people of all ages. Activities include fresh cider, apple picking, pumpkin picking, donut shop, bakery, wagon rides, petting farm, and more. The orchard opens in September. Click here to see the full schedule and list of activities.

Thunder Over Michigan
September 2 – September 4

Thunder over Michigan, one of the largest air shows in the nation, is presented by Wayne County Airport Authority. It takes place each summer at Willow Run Airport, which is located just outside Ypsilanti. Enjoy the flying performances in the air or under a massive airplane wing. See endless displays and interactive exhibits along the ramp.

Dancing in the Streets
September 3

Dancing in the Streets is an annual free festival in downtown Ann Arbor. It offers a chance to sample lots of different music and dance traditions, enjoy the downtown, and see some friends in the process. Multiple stages offer visitors a chance to try many different styles of dancing, as well as enjoy mini-concerts and entertain their children with special activities.

12th Annual Dog Swim
September 9 – September 10

Rolling Hills County Park is proud to host the 12th Annual Dog Swim, September 9 and 10, 2017. Get ready for a pup-tacular time as dogs frolic, swim and make new friends at the water park!

There are different time frames for dogs of various sizes. Click here to verify swim times for your dog’s weight.

15th Annual Kerrytown Bookfest
September 10

The Kerrytown BookFest is held each September and is a celebration of books, those who create them and those who read them. Our primary goal is to highlight our area’s rich heritage in the book and printing arts and showcase local individuals, businesses, and organizations. The day will be filled with entertainment, education, and hands-on experiences.

Ann Arbor Russian Festival
September 16 – September 17

The Ann Arbor Russian Festival returns for September 16 and 17 with their fun community and family event. You’ll find a plethora of activities including Russian food, a tea room with authentic sweets, Russian and Ukrainian dancing and entertainment, a kids corner, beautiful and unique gifts for sale, and much more.

29th Annual Apples & Honey
September 17

Apples & Honey is an annual community event celebrating the fall Jewish holidays: Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, & Simchat Torah. This is the largest Jewish gathering in Ann Arbor with hundreds of participants each year. Local Jewish organizations join together to educate the community about their missions and providing opportunities to participate in celebratory activities and holiday themed projects. What started in 1988 as a small event has since grown to a much-anticipated community wide celebration. In addition to hands-on activities and projects, there will, of course, be apples & honey to taste, and food for sale such as pizza, Israeli foods, and kosher baked goods.

Orphan Car Show
September 17

The 20th Annual Orphan Car Show makes its return to Ypsilanti’s beautiful Riverside Park on September 17. Come check out hundreds of now defunct cars and trucks from all over the state. These orphan cars are now rare and some are very difficult to find! Don’t miss out on your chance to view some awesome and historic vehicles.

Saline Oktoberfest
September 22 – September 23

You don’t have to be German to enjoy Saline’s Oktoberfest. An all-American festival with a fun German flavor, Oktoberfest features live German rock and folk music, a Kinderplatz activity area for the little ones, and plenty of scrumptious German and American food. There’s also a Corn Hole Tournament proving that Oktoberfest has something for everyone.

Your Generation in Concert is returning on Friday night and Fifty Amp Fuse The Phoenix Theory on Saturday night. Hear authentic German music by the New Horizon German Band and more on Saturday afternoon!

36th Annual Webster Fall Festival
September 23

The 36th Annual Webster Fall Festival offers old-fashioned country fun for all ages. Activities and attractions feature something for everyone: hay rides, a petting zoo, dog agility demonstrations, historic buildings and displays, vintage cars and farm machinery, a rummage sale, crafts, artisans, and a vintage baseball game. Baked goods, preserves, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the day. The Church luncheon, featuring a pig roast, is served from 11 am to 2 pm.

Turtle Trot
September 24

Run, walk, or jog on the scenic walkways along the Huron River and Geddes Pond with the Michigan Nature Association. This 5K will promote efforts to preserve habitat for turtles throughout Michigan, such as the eastern box turtle, the spotted turtle, Blanding’s turtle, and the wood turtle.

Bewitching Peddlers of Halloween
September 30

For years, this group of hand selected artists have gathered together in the spirit of Halloween. On this day of magic, the veil is lifted and you are invited into an enchanting world, celebrating the very best in Halloween art. This event takes place at the Chelsea Fairgrounds and features arts, crafts, fun, and more. Those wishing to line up early can gain early access at 8 am – 10 am. Doors to the show open for general admission from 10 am – 3 pm.

Inventory of homes for sale is well below historic norms and buyer demand remains high.

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, commented, “Buyer interest is solid, but there is just not enough supply to satisfy demand. Prospective buyers are being sidelined by both limited choices and home prices that are climbing too fast.” When inventory shrinks, available homes become more valuable. This defines today’s real estate market and is good news for sellers.

While multiple offers were common this spring, there are signs that the frenzy is slowing down. As we approach the end of summer, sellers still hold a significant negotiating advantage in many price ranges over factors such as price, inspection, appraisal and financing contingencies. If you‘ve been considering selling your house, you may not want to wait any longer.

For all of the facts about what is happening in your neighborhood, contact a Reinhart Realtor today.

Source: KCM, July 18, 2017

This week we are featuring Elizabeth Brien’s listing —1175 Overidge View Court, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Q.  Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
This pristine home showcases a two story entryway, high ceilings, and lots of windows in an open floor plan which flows into the chef’s kitchen. It has 4 bedrooms, including the master, and laundry room on the top floor. Graceful front elevation showcases brick exterior and thoughtful landscaping.  Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
This remarkable custom home is situated on a private cul-de-sac on the West side of Ann Arbor. Glowing hardwood floors on  both the first and second floors. New owners will enjoy the large deck, fireplace, and nine foot ceilings on the first floor & lower level.Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
Quiet, secluded neighborhood. Minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, while paying township tax rate. Proximate to I-94 and M-14 entrances.  Private 1 acre lot backs to wooded area conferring peace and privacy.  Walk to Dolph Nature Area and Saginaw Woods.Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
Newer roof. Shelving was added in the garage and basement storage area. The interior has been recently painted.  

Q. Does the community have any amenities we should know about?
The community is on a private road, and there is a landscaped common area.  The HOA handles road snow removal as well as upkeep of the common areas. Convenient to Jackson Road shopping.

Q.What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
The living room located in the front of the house provides a perfect theatre for watching the sunset.

Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
The tasteful, neutral finishes allow new owners to instantly make the home their own. Spacious with plenty of storage.  Beautifully finished walk out lower level has a fifth bedroom, full bath, and a game area.

Q.Can you tell us a fun fact about the home?
Mornings in the fall are very peaceful… until game time (Go Blue!).Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
This home is great for a large and/or growing family.  

If you would like more information about 1175 Overidge View Court, Ann Arbor  or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Elizabeth Brien at 734-669-5989 or by email at brienteam@elizabethbrien.com.

In less than 24 hours over 500,000 visitors from across the globe will make the journey to downtown Ann Arbor to experience for the 58th Ann Arbor Art Fair. The art fair will be held 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 20, through Saturday, July 22; and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 23 throughout the streets of downtown Ann Arbor.

During the Summer Art Fair Ann Arbor will transform into an art lover’s paradise where you can experience and enjoy original works of art, street performances, culinary treats and a variety of sidewalk sales.

Getting Around
The best way to get around the fair is to take a shuttle.  This year there are two shuttle opportunities available throughout the fair, TheRide and Trinity Transportation. Both will offer services at a trio of stops.

Trinity will have a Park & Ride shuttle stop at Huron High School, 2727 Fuller Road, which offers two different drop-off points: Fletcher and Washington and South University at Forest. Parking is free, and the round-trip cost is $3. Children 5 and younger ride free. This shuttle operates on Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority’s TheRide will pick up passengers from Pioneer High School, at 601 W. Stadium Blvd., on Thursday through Saturday. Stops will be made at Main Street at William and on State and Madison streets. TheRide also operates the shuttle at Briarwood Mall (near Sears) on State and Eisenhower.

Shuttles are reasonably priced at just $1.50 each way, or $3.00 for a round trip. Students in grades K-12 and Fare Deal cardholders ride for $.75. Holders of Senior and A-Ride identification cards issued by TheRide, and children five years of age and younger, ride free.

For Locals
While Ann Arborites may feel frustrated by the increased traffic and trouble parking there are still many things we can appreciate. For locals the Art Fair provides important economic benefits to the city. A recent economic impact study conducted by the Ann Arbor Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Ann Arbor Art Fair was second only to the University of Michigan for visitor recognition with July being the month Ann Arbor saw the most visitors.

For Families
The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair hosts the Art Activity Zone, with hands-on projects for adults and children. The activity zone is located on Ingalls Mall and runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Kid-friendly art projects include the Legoland Discovery Center, a mixed media mosaic and a figurine making station, with stations hosted by Flipside Art Studio, Clay Work Studio, University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, Cranbrook Art Museum and Detroit Institute of the Arts.

Music and Movement
The Fountain Stage features over 20 acts throughout the four days of the Fair, July 20th – 23rd, creating an intimate and inviting sense of community, complementing the exceptional visual art at the Original Fair. The stage is located on Ingalls Mall, between Washington Street and North University, next to the fountain.

Art Fair App
For those who are looking to navigate the fair there is an app for that. A free iPhone application includes an interactive map of the fair (with geo-location, so users can see their current location in relationship to specific artists), with information about local businesses, AAAF events, the trolley, food, information booths, music stages, parking, and a comprehensive list of artists, with sample images of their work.

This week we are featuring Rick Taylor’s listing —740 Rose Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
Light filled and stunning best describe this custom built 2 story home with many updates featuring only the finest of materials and open concept design. Seller is the original owner.

Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
Features an official Har-Tru clay tennis court, one of only 3 in the entire Ann Arbor area. All tennis equipment is included in the sale of the home.

Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
You’ll feel like you’re up north yet you’re only 5 minutes from downtown Ann Arbor.
Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
Upgrades include newer windows throughout the home, new appliances and a remodeled first-floor master suite.

Q. What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
Situated on 1.7 rolling, wooded and meadow-like acres.

Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by many wonderful features including vaulted ceilings in the living room, a fieldstone fireplace and a gourmet kitchen showcasing granite countertop.

Q. Can you tell us a fun fact about the home?
An awe inspiring two-tiered deck leads you to the Har-Tru tennis court. Known as “Club Mel” it’s the envy of many tennis players.

If you would like more information about 740 Rose Drive, Ann Arbor, MI or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Rick Taylor at 734-223-5656 or by email at rtaylor@reinhartrealtors.com.

This week we are featuring Elizabeth Brien’s listing —1215 Southwood Court, Ann Arbor, MI 48103Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
It’s a contemporary shingled-sided home with a front-facing columned portico. The interior is airy and comfortably livable, with a clean and fresh look.
Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
This is a very airy house with many windows that let in the natural light.

Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
The house is located in a quiet subdivision of one-acre homes and mature landscaping. The house sits on a peaceful cul-de-sac, next to a wooded area. The Saginaw Forest is across the street from the subdivision.Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
The kitchen was updated with new appliances, custom cabinets, quartz countertops, and a granite island for food preparation and eating. There is a new roof, skylights in the den, new Hardee board siding, and updated fixtures in all the bathrooms. There is a renovated full bathroom on the first floor.
Q. Does the community have any amenities we should know about?
Private, peaceful niche neighborhood minutes from popular shopping and all the amenities Ann Arbor’s west side has to offer!
Q. What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
Many windows throughout the home, including a two-story foyer with a wall of windows, give natural light exposure to the entire house. The windows give outside views of the maturely landscaped lawn and a wooded area in the back.

Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
This 3116 sq. ft home is move in ready! New roof, skylights, and hardiplank shake siding.Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
Grounds include a beautiful landscaped front walkway, over an acre of lush front lawn and tree-lined backyard with mature plantings, low voltage lighting on a timer, sprinkler system and a lovely deck with built-in benches.

If you would like more information about 1215 Southwood Court, Ann Arbor, MI or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Elizabeth Brien at 734-669-5989 or by email at brienteam@elizabethbrien.com.

Milan Bluegrass Festival
August 3 – August 5

Every year thousands gather from all over the country for this popular festival just east of Milan at the KC Campground. Eighteen bluegrass performers and bands will entertain the crowds.

 9 to 5 the Musical
August 3 – August 27

Based on the 1980 movie, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, this musical is about three women’s lives in the work force, and dealing with their “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” of a boss. The score is amazing, the jokes are never-ending, and the message is about living to your true potential. You’ll be humming tunes from the show for weeks after you see it!

First Fridays Ypsilanti
August 4

First Fridays Ypsilanti is a self-guided monthly art and culture walk hosted throughout downtown Ypsilanti at multiple venues. On the first Friday of every month, participating venues offer free art activities involving local artists, musicians, and/or tastings. The goal of the First Fridays Ypsilanti is to invite community members into the downtown area to have fun and support local talent and businesses.

Manchester Street Art Fair
August 5

Be sure to save the date and invite family and friends to join you for a fun-filled day in the Village of Manchester. “Run Manchester” kicks off the day’s festivities beginning at 8:00 am and features a 10K, 5K, and 1 mile Fun Run. Once the run has finished, stay to enjoy the following entertainment until 9 pm: juried art fair, 20 family-friendly musical acts in 3 different locations along Main Street, a vintage car show, a dunk tank, live music and more.

The OutFest 2017
August 4 – 6

OutFest is a weekend festival in Ann Arbor to celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer identities, community, and allyship. Friday, August 4 through Sunday, August 6 the community comes together for entertainment, community, vendor, fun and most importantly, pride. The festival, hosted by the Jim Toy Community Center (JTCC), has been moved to August to accommodate an ever-growing festival. All proceeds go to helping support the efforts of the JTCC – a local area nonprofit resource center that provides information, education, social events, and advocacy by and for the LGBTQ and ally community.

The Dragonboat Festival
August 5

The Dragonboat Festival is an annual celebration of DIY building and design, culture, competition, community, and fun.  Dragonboat Festival 2017 will be held at the lower pond of Robin Hills Farm and will feature various competitive Dragonboat races using homemade boats. The event begins at 10 am with a boat exhibition where spectators can visit and photograph the many different boat designs. The exhibition will be followed by a series of boat-race heats around the lower pond where teams will be competing against one another in hopes of advancing further into the competition. The day will conclude with an awards ceremony.

DIYpsi Indie Art Fair
August 5 & August 6

DIYpsi (dip-see) is an art fair featuring all hand-made items. It takes place in Ypsilanti’s business districts once each summer and winter. For two weekends each year, the best indie artists from the area put on this one of a kind shopping experience. The event also includes incredible handcrafted food and drink so bring your appetite!

Dexter Daze
August 11 & August 12

Dexter Daze has occurred annually for 45 years. Enthusiasm and community growth have developed an event that includes artisans, crafters, businesses and free entertainment for the whole family. The event runs Friday from 4:00 pm -10:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.

Saline’s Summerfest
August 11 & August 12

On a fine summer weekend, along the streets of Downtown Saline, a wonderful assortment of activities, attractions, and amusements will bring together people of all ages and interests. It’s a super hometown celebration – Saline’s Summerfest 2017!

Plein Air Festival
August 14 – August 19

For the 5th year in a row, under the curious and watchful eye of the public, local and visiting artists will paint for four days in and around Dexter. The festival culminates with a two-day exhibit and silent auction of all competition artwork in the Tent Gallery in Monument Park. Activities included a friendly competition for professional and emerging artists, a quick-draw painting competition, a silent auction and artwork sale, and more.

Nashbash Music Festival
August 18

Nashville singer/songwriter Sally Barris headlines the 10th Anniversary of the Nashbash Music Festival. Set in the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, the event features a roster of first-class national and local performers in an intimate neighborhood atmosphere, making Kerrytown the place to be on Thursday evening during the dog days of summer. The artistic force behind Nashbash is Whit Hill, a longtime member of the Ann Arbor arts community who now lives in Nashville. True to Nashbash tradition, she and her band Whit Hill and the Postcards join the Nashbash roster, which this year also includes local favorites Hoodang, The Bill Edwards Band, The Judy Banker Band and The Whiskey Charmers. The festival runs from 5:00pm – 9:30pm.

Super Run
August 19

The Super Run is a superhero themed event featuring a 5k and a family friendly fundraising run. The event takes place at Gallup Park in Ann Arbor and goes from 8:00am – 11:00am. Enjoy entertainment and other family activities.

Chelsea Community Fair
August 22 – August 26

The Chelsea Community Fair is hosted at the Chelsea Fairgrounds, which is located just south of downtown Chelsea. The annual fair is organized and run by the Board of Directors and the Daily Activity Fair Committees and takes place in mid-August.

German Park Picnic
August 26

If you are looking for authentic German fare, beer, and dancing look no further than the German Park Picnics. German Park hosts its annual picnics on the last Saturday of June, July and August. The picnics are a true Ann Arbor tradition which have been held every summer for over 75 years. The final German Park Picnic of the summer will take place August 26 from 4 pm – 11 pm and will feature the band Enzianaus Detroit as well as the Thachtengruppe Dancers who will perform at 6 pm and 8:30 pm. Bring cash to buy tickets, refreshments, and souvenirs.

Ypsilanti Heritage Festival
August 26 – August 28

Ypsilanti Heritage Festival is a free community festival featuring arts and crafts, live music, family activities and entertainment, historical presentations, and more. This year’s festival is being held Friday, August 25 through Sunday, August 27. Local’s say that the Rubber Ducky Race (on Sunday at 5 pm) is the highlight of the festival.

Saline Community Fair
August 31 – September 4

Promising something for everyone, the 2016 Saline Community Fair will feature animals, exhibits, music, a car show, rides, food and more. Gates open August 31 at 9:00am.

“Homeowner equity increased by $766 billion over the last year, the largest increase since Q2 2014…” states CoreLogic, with their latest Equity Report revealing that 91,000 properties regained equity in the first quarter of 2017. This is great news for the country, as 48.2 million of all mortgaged properties are now in a positive equity situation, and great news for the 2017 market. This means risk will continue to steadily decline as a result of increasing home prices.

Price Appreciation = Good News for Homeowners

According to the Fannie Mae, more homeowners are beginning to realize that they might have more equity than they first thought, with the majority thinking it’s a good time to sell rather than buy. With a sizable equity position, many homeowners with a mortgage have an opportunity to take advantage of today’s seller’s market and easily move into a housing situation that better meets their current needs.

Unsure of how much equity you have built in your home? Contact a Reinhart Associate today and find out why now could be a great time to sell!

May statistics from the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors show the lack of adequate supply of new listings is driving prices upward versus the same time last year.

538 new residential listings came on the market in May, compared to 639 in May a year ago.  This led to an increase in listing and sale prices. The average list price for May 2017 was $320,853 which is a 7.2 percent increase from last year. The average sale price increased 8.5 percent to $320,360.

Getting the best advice can make a significant difference in tight market conditions. For help creating a real estate plan, contact a Reinhart Realtor today.