You're not going to find serenity on the highway...

More and more often, we get requests for buyers who want a high level of privacy and seclusion but they also want to be on a paved road with cable internet.  Good luck with that...  The reality is, true peace and quiet are most often found off the beaten path.  Another scenario never to be found is someone wanting a downtown condo with space for a large garden.  Not...  Gonna...  Happen...

I can certainly understand the desire to be close to amenities like health care, dining, shopping and the like, especially for those looking to live in an area full time or spend the entire season there.  In northern Michigan, however, access to those amenities from a secluded cottage in the woods most often involves travel down some gravel roads.

Connectivity to the internet is also very important to most people and frankly, essential for many in order to operate business while away from home.  Fortunately there are a number of options including satellite internet, cellular internet and others that don't require hard lines run to the property.  Better yet, take some time away from the internet!  (not right now, you should keep reading this blog)  Paddle a river, walk a woodland trail, lay in a hammock near running water or find any other way you can to truly unplug.  It's good for the soul.

I guess what I'm saying is, you usually can't have it both ways.  If you want to watch deer wander through your yard and see an eagle snatch a trout from a stream while enjoying your morning coffee, you're more likely to find it a few more miles out.  Add 10 minutes to the drive into town and it's amazing how much serenity can be found!

Consider these properties as great examples

Located on a phenomenal trout fishing section of The Manistee River, this well done 3 bed, 2 bath cottage home offers stunning river views, a huge river side deck and gazebo and over 1,100' of pristine, secluded frontage.  It's within 40 minutes of Traverse City and is adjacent to 100's of acres of state land.  Offered at $229,900.  Click HERE for details.

This one comes pretty close to that dream scenario.  It offers over 20 wooded acres within 10 miles of Traverse City with over 700' of frontage on both sides of the river.  A large building site and separate garage site have already been approved and developed offering great river views.  It's ready for your foundation and dream home or cabin.  Offered at $229,900.  Click HERE for details

He who has the most signs loses...

It is truly interesting how perception becomes reality.  The one that comes up most often in real estate is the perception that the agent with the most signs out and about is likely the most successful agent in the area.  Every one of those signs is in the yard of a property that agent has been UNABLE TO SELL...  The agent with the most signs in yards is just the one with the most unsold properties.

My goal is to have absolutely no signs in place because it will mean I've successfully sold all my clients' properties.  Go ahead and interview that agent whose signs are all over the place but talk to at least two others you get through recommendation or your own online research.  You'll be more likely to find the agent who is truly the best fit for you and your property.  With any luck, you won't have a sign in your yard for long.