ON THE MOVE // JULY 2023

The real estate market in West Michigan and Allendale in particular is still very strong, an increase in new home construction which is still woefully behind needed volume to alleviate some of the inventory issues we are seeing in West Michigan. Locally and nationally, interest rates have steadied around the 7% range and there is likely not going to be much fluctuation over the next several months. 7% is still under the 30-year average which means as a buyer this is the right time to buy. Renting is still very expensive and when I’m asked by renters if they should buy now or wait, the answer is “by remaining a renter you are paying someone else’s mortgage! You are carrying renters’ insurance and are at risk of eviction. Buying a home ASAP often gets you your own home, for less than the rent you are paying monthly and helps you build credit and earn equity. There are some great programs from low-income, first-time home buyers and people with low credit scores. Don’t wait any longer to buy.

If you would like to talk more about your options to sell or buy including timing and values, please feel free to message me for some direction.

Gbrown@city2shore.com 1-616-895-8000

Allendale is not just a pit stop on Lake Michigan Drive but a bustling space that continues to grow. Nothing makes this more apparent than the presence of The Rouge Salon and Spa, a high-quality salon, spa, and boutique where anyone can relax and enjoy a moment of wellness.

This month, I was lucky enough to interview the new Rouge Salon and Spa owners: Shanda and Kyle Vandepol!

Continuing The Legacy

The Rouge has been a staple in our community since 2006, when it was founded by Cory and Stacy Anderson, who created an incredible (and successful!) place to pamper yourself here in Allendale. Back in 2007, Shanda worked as a hairstylist for The Rouge, making close ties and great connections with both previous owner Stacy and the Allendale community during her time there.

In May 2019, Shanda parted on excellent terms to pursue her entrepreneurial dream as the Roots Salon and Spa owner in Hudsonville. In March 2023, she and her husband Kyle returned to become co-owners of The Rouge, hoping to preserve the legacy of The Rouge Salon and Spa that Cory and Stacy have built.

"It's been amazing working here with all the stylists and the community for all these years…" says Shanda. "I love the area [Allendale], and I love the people, so I wanted to continue to see The Rouge thrive and grow.”

Shanda Vandepol, a talented hair stylist and cosmetologist, still does some hair behind the chair. Most days, though, she is on the floor ensuring that The Rouge's clients are well taken care of and that its stylists feel supported.

"It was always Stacy's goal, and now mine, to create a culture and mindset of high quality that our team helps build every day," says Shanda.

Kyle Vandepol, an ace in retail and management, hopes to expand Ophelia's Boutique - their onsite clothing and accessories store - to include a men's fashion line. He also