MNA - Your Next Home - July 2022

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July 2022 Residential

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Commercial

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Rentals

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Vacant Land

M I C H I G A N ■

Waterfront

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Farms

SEE OUR DIRECTORY ON PAGE 8 FOR A FULL LIST OF REALTORS AND BUSINESSES. A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Benzie, Manistee & Mason Counties

Lighthouse Realty 360 E. Parkdale Ave. Manistee Sales & Property Management

231-299-1180

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

231-398-3800 www.goLighthouseRealty.com

www.dwellingrealty.com hello@dwellingrealty.com Caliber Home Loans, Inc., NMLS 15622. Copyright 2021. Equal Housing Lender.

Thinking of buying bunk beds for your home or cabin? NOW is the time to buy!

We have multiple styles in stock starting at $259. $100 OFF ALL NEW BUNK BEDS PURCHASED THROUGH JULY! 50% off home decor items and used furniture is 20% to 50% off the original price!

119 S. Main St., Scottville, MI | 231-757-8733 Tues-Fri 9am-5:30pm • Sat 9am-4:30pm www.holdenshomeemporium.com 2

Your Next Home • July 2022

Serving Northern Michigan Since 1999

NMLS# 162651

Whether you are looking to buy or build, let Genisys Mortgage Professionals guide you home!

Meghan Kirker LOAN OFFICER

231.233.0241 mkirker@genisysmortgage.net NMLS# 1189571 GENISYSMORTGAGE.COM/MKIRKER

July 2022 • Your Next Home

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Your Next Home • July 2022

At Carter Lumber in Ludington, we make the transition into a new home as painless as possible. We have years of experience helping new residents turn their new homes into the permanent home of their dreams.

From kitchen and bath designs to decking, we make the remodeling and building process easy. We’ve been rooted in the community for decades and are proud to welcome you to our beautiful lakeside community.

For more information on how we can help you, visit us in-store or online.

Welcome to the neighborhood!

July 2022 • Your Next Home

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In This Issue REAL ESTATE AGENCIES & REALTORS..................................PAGE Dwelling Realty............................................................... 1 (Cover) Essential Real Estate........................................................ 1 (Cover) Lighthouse Realty........................................................... 1 (Cover) MOM Board of Realtors...............................................................4 Real Estate One: Brooke Sowa...................................................11 Essential Real Estate............................................................. 12-13 Century 21: Gini Pelton.............................................................15 Real Estate One: Kathy Neveu....................................................17 Coldwell Banker: Jamie Gray.....................................................18 Century 21: Kari King................................................................21 Lighthouse Realty: Heather Barker & Casey Tennant.................22 Lighthouse Realty: Kerri Mackey................................................23 Lighthouse Realty......................................................................24 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Caliber Home Loans: Mindy Sedelmaier........................ 1 (Cover) Genisys: Megan Kirker.................................................................3 Metro Mortgage.........................................................................10 Shelby State Bank......................................................................14

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HOME IMPROVEMENT/ DECOR COMPANIES......................PAGE Holden’s Home Emporium, Inc....................................................2 Carter Lumber..............................................................................5 West Michigan Kitchen Studio.....................................................9 Pamela’s Design.........................................................................15 Somsel Lumber Company..........................................................17 REDEEMED.................................................................................19 INSURANCE COMPANIES State Farm Insurance Agency: Mary Sturdevant........................21 MISCELLANEOUS Real Estate Transactions...............................................................7 Business Directory.......................................................................8 ADVICE FOR THE HOME Some surprising stats about home burglaries.............................9 How to conserve energy while keeping the AC on............... 10-11 Explaining easements, setbacks and CCRs................................14 Fourth of July party tips.............................................................16 How to keep pets from causing home fires......................... 18-19 How to prepare for drought in advance.....................................20 Your Next Home • July 2022

Manistee News Advocate Recorded Sales for the Month of: May 2022 V/L NORCONK RD, BEAR LAKE

$7,200

2811 SEYMOUR ST, ONEKAMA

$270,000

10500 CABERFAE HWY, MANISTEE

$57,500

3506 LAKESHORE RD, MANISTEE

$335,000

9133 TAPIO ST, KALEVA

$85,000

9188 ERDMAN RD, ONEKAMA

$275,000

610 RAMSDELL ST, MANISTEE

$55,000

1424 TIMBER RIDGE DR, MANISTEE

$436,000

198 NINTH ST, MANISTEE

$157,000

14763 OAK DR, BRETHREN

$62,000

V/L HUSIER RD, WELLSTON

$132,000

3754 LAKESHORE RD, MANISTEE

13410 BIG FOUR RD, BEAR LAKE

$500,000

V/L GREGORY ST, WELLSTON

1374 TUBBS RD, MANISTEE

$165,000

17675 CABERFAE HWY, WELLSTON

$155,000

603 HIGH BRIDGE RD, WELLSTON

$200,000

17324 SECOND ST, ARCADIA

$85,000

272 FIFTH AVE, MANISTEE

$180,000

465 FIRST ST, MANISTEE

$255,000

17083 FOURTH ST, ARCADIA

$235,500

311 CYPRESS ST, MANISTEE

$127,500

V/L KURICK RD, THOMPSONVILLE

$16,000

3341 JUNGLE INN DR, ARCADIA

$208,500

4346 W FOX FARM RD, MANISTEE

$695,000

7904 & 7906 MAIN ST, BEAR LAKE

$62,500

V/L N TIPPY DAM RD, WELLSTON

$44,500

84 SPINNAKER DR, MANISTEE

$325,000

14695 PANU AVE, KALEVA

$169,000

206 CLEVELAND ST, MANISTEE

$72,000

16890 VALLEY WOOD CT & DOCK, ARCADIA

$25,000 $470,000 $18,500

1807 PINE RIDGE DR, MANISTEE

$325,000

V/L HERKELRATH RD, ONEKAMA

$37,000

586 BROWNING AVE, MANISTEE

$200,000

6443 EIGHT MILE RD, BEAR LAKE

$12,500

603 CYPRESS ST, MANISTEE

$19,500

63 MAPLE ST, MANISTEE

$110,000

V/L LITZEN RD, COPEMISH

$83,000

V/L GLOVERS LAKE RD, THOMPSONVILLE

$37,000

10545 NORTHWOOD HWY, ONEKAMA

$55,000

458 FIRST ST, MANISTEE

$49,900

18676 BURNHAM DR, ARCADIA

$457,000

V/L NUTHATCH DR, THOMPSONVILLE

$39,900

V/L NUTHATCH DR, THOMPSONVILLE

$39,900

3277 LAKELAND DR, ARCADIA

$276,000

329 SECOND AVE & V/L THIRD AVE, MANISTEE $399,900

214 ARTHUR ST, MANISTEE

$190,000

V/L LAKESHORE RD, MANISTEE

V/L CAMP RD, MANISTEE

$90,000

$80,000

V/L CHERRY RD, MANISTEE

$190,000

9970 LINDERMAN RD, BEAR LAKE

$340,000

475 CABERFAE HWY, MANISTEE

$170,000

2492 SUIDA RD, MANISTEE

$262,026

63 CLAY ST, MANISTEE

$100,000

469 FIRST ST, MANISTEE

$145,000

18374 PLEASANTON HWY, BEAR LAKE

$250,000

MAPLE DR, WELLSTON

$15,000

11956 ERWIN RD, COPEMISH

$139,900

463 EIGHTH ST, MANISTEE

July 2022 • Your Next Home

$239,900

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Business Directory ■

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Caliber Home Loans: Mindy Sedelmaier 231-233-0963 Carter Lumber 231-757-9000 www.carterlumber.com Century 21: Kari King 231-651-0923 www.C21Northland.com Century 21: Gini Pelton 231-690-0852 gini@c21boardwalk.com

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Coldwell Banker: Jamie Gray 231-499-1430

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Dwelling Realty www.dwellingrealty.com

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Essential Real Estate 231-942-9334 Therran Ferguson, Broker/Owner 231-510-1790 Michael Kruse 231-690-8882 Jenna Mahoney 231-942-9334 Genisys: Meghan Kirker 231-233-0241 genisysmortgage.com/mkirker Holden’s Home Emporium, Inc 231-757-8733 www.holdenshomeemporium.com Lighthouse Realty Manistee 231-398-3800 www.goLighthouseRealty.com Heather Barker 231-510-5505 Shirley Barker 903-681-6102 Cathy French 231-233-3268 Leah Gannon 517-607-5347 Jeremy “Ox” Glenn 812-929-9289 John Hanson 231-510-5543 Bill LaBelle 239-887-1037

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Mason Oceana Manistee Board of Realtors www.momboard.com Metro Mortgage 231-425-5555 www.metromtg.com Pamela’s Interior Design 231-723-8688 PamelasInteriors.net Real Estate One: Kathy Neveu 231-342-0921 Real Estate One: Brooke Sowa 231.620.3188 Redeemed 231-887-4222 Shelby State Bank www.shelbybank.com Somsel Lumber Co. 231-362-3103 State Farm Insurance Agency Mary Studevant 231-723-9905

■ West Michigan Forest Products

www.wmkitchenstudio.com Ludington 231-480-1200 Byron Center 616-281-6684 Muskegon 231-246-7184 Forest Hills 616-727-0909

Leanne LaBelle Kerri Mackey Emily Pomeroy Dale Smith Cheryl Staszczak Casey Tennant

239-887-0998 231-510-8380 231-510-1303 231-794-9122 248-805-3802 231-233-7613

Your Next Home • July 2022

Some surprising stats about home burglaries

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ome burglaries immediately conjure images of criminals clad in head-to-toe black and lurking outside the homes of unsuspecting homeowners, patiently waiting for the lights to go out so they can enter and steal valuables. Such images have been in the public consciousness for so long that it’s easy to overlook the threat posed by home burglaries. But these statistics indicate just how potent and dangerous a threat burglaries remain.

• More than one million burglaries take place in the United States each year. (Source: The Federal Bureau of Investigation) • More than 137,000 burglaries occurred in Canada in 2020.

(Statista) • Homes without a home security system are 300 percent more likely to be burglarized than homes with such a system. (The National Council for Home Safety and Security) • Residential burglar alarm systems have been linked to a steady decrease in burglaries. Researchers at Rutgers University examined burglaries in Newark over a five-year period, ultimately concluding that an increase in registered home burglar alarms coincided with a decrease in burglaries. (Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice) • Burglaries are more likely to occur during the day than at night.

Break-ins are 6 percent more likely to occur between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. while people are outside of their homes. (NCHSS) • Forceful entry is required in 95 percent of all home invasions.

Forceful entry could involve breaking a window, picking a lock or kicking in a door. Burglars may use pry bars, pliers, screwdrivers, or small hammers to gain entry into a home. (NCHSS)

3 LOCATIONS wmkitchenstudio.com LUDINGTON

5752 W. US 10, Ludington, MI 49431

231-480-1200 BYRON CENTER 7440 Clyde Park Ave. SW Byron Center, MI 49315 616-281-6684 July 2022 • Your Next Home

FOREST HILLS 850 Forest Hills Ave., Suite C Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-727-0909

• Desperation motivates 85 percent of the individuals who break into homes. That underscores how dangerous interactions with burglars can be for residents of homes that have been broken into. (University of North Carolina at Charlotte) • Someone is home during roughly 28 percent of all burglaries, and 26 percent of those individuals are harmed. (U.S. Department of Justice) • Eighty-three percent of burglars admitted they look to see if a home has an alarm before they decide to burglarize it. Sixty percent of burglars admitted they would change their minds about burglarizing a property if they became aware a home as a security system. (UNC Charlotte)

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How to conserve energy while keeping the AC on A ir conditioning is a welcome luxury come the dog days of summer. Few people can imagine getting through a hot summer afternoon without turning their AC on, and that can make July and August some of the more costly months on the calendar in regard to energy consumption.

Though the months of July and August may not seem well-suited to cutting energy consumption, there are ways to conserve that don’t require turning off the AC. • Reconsider the location of your thermostat. The Performance Building Institute, Inc. notes that thermostats are sensitive to heat. Thermostats located near heat-generating appliances like lamps, televisions and computers may be fooled into thinking a home’s interior is warmer than it actually is. That will keep a temperature-controlled AC running longer and more frequently

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than is necessary. If necessary, move the thermostat to a part of the home where there are no electronics and appliances.

• Emphasize maintenance of the AC unit. Even the most energy-efficient AC unit will be forced to work harder, and consume extra energy, if it’s not well-maintained. The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy notes that ENERGY STAR-certified HVAC equipment can yield annual energy savings of 10 to 30 percent.

But such products must be maintained. Annual maintenance appointments with an HVAC technician can ensure the unit is clean and refrigerant levels are correct, helping it run as efficiently as possible.

• Embrace natural ways to keep a home’s interior cool. Cranking the AC is not the only way to maintain a comfortable temperature inside a home during the months of July and August. Closing

Your Next Home • July 2022

curtains on especially warm days keeps the sun out and makes it easier to maintain comfortable temperatures inside without lowering the temperature on the thermostat. Avoiding the stove on hot nights and preparing cold meals or firing up the grill outside is another way to keep the house cool.

and warmer in summertime. Seal cracks around doors and windows to keep the cool air in during the summer. Keeping that air in should allow you to raise the temperature on your thermostat without compromising comfort.

Come the dog days of summer, conserving energy needn’t come at the • Address insulation issues. Cracks around windows and doors cost of comfort. Various strategies can help people reduce their energy affect the temperature inside the home, making it colder in winter consumptions and keep their air conditioners on.

Brooke Hollenbeck Sowa REALTOR®

INTERGRITY • HONESTY • DEPENDABLE

Ranked Top 1% Producer in Sales 231.620.3188 basowa2002@yahoo.com 57 N. Michigan Ave Beulah, MI 49617 July 2022 • Your Next Home

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16954 Caberfae Hwy Wellston

$475,000 #22019638

This fully functioning gas station is right on M-55. 4 pumps and a rec fuel tank sit on just under an acre with store front space totaling 2250sq’ of combined retail, commercial kitchen, freezer and cooler space (complete with new compressors).

$

#

231 W Parkdale Ave Manistee 1800 sq ft

$245,000 #22017239

Local River Adventure Sports Business with an endless amount of opportunity! Home & Business Combined! Manistee Paddle Sport Adventures has a huge following for all the Big & Little Manistee River summer activities including kayaking, river tubing, canoeing, bike and scooter rentals.

$

#

6407 S Outer Loop Drive, 94 • Custer

$36,900 #21108980

18803 N Coates Hwy Brethren

278 2nd Avenue Manistee

$159,500 #22020475

Located on Manistee’s Northside close to Lake Michigan, and not far from Downtown!

1,942 sq. ft. 2 story 4 bedroom 1 1/2 bath with some updates. Fenced backyard and large detached garage with off-street parking.

Home appears to be mechanically sound and has been well cared for by the current owner for many years. Wood-burning stove in the dining room just off the large kitchen and open to the family room. This would make a great starter home, forever home, or Up North getaway. Please schedule your tour today!

$170,000 #22024763

285 5th Street Manistee

$155,000 #22024010

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Adorable 4 bedroom 1 bath home with 2 car garage located close to downtown and Riverwalk. Updates within the last few years include new 200 amp electrical service, all new bath, kitchen appliances and countertops, washer and dryer (main floor laundry) and light fixtures. The main floor has 2 bedrooms with 2 smaller bedrooms upstairs. Would make a great cottage or starter home. Move in ready!

Turn Key. Includes a12’x16’RV Cabin with 50amps of electric for baseboard heat andAC, a 8’x20’tall boy storage shed for the toys and a new 10’x12’insulated building with storage loft and electric installed. 100 amp electrical service with additional 30amp outlet, seasonal campground well water and septic.

Underground High speed DSL/cable is connected. Dues are just $245 annually Whiskey Creek is surrounded by over 22,000 acres of Federal land.Association includes clubhouse, seasonal bath house, year round road service, over 140 acres of common element property. Including 40 acres of water for fishing and swimming and nearly 100 acres of trails for you favorite means of transportation. This place is one of a kind, if you have not explored Whiskey Creek, do it now!

This cozy 2 bed 1.5 bath cabin is situated on 9 ac in the PERFECT location if you love hunting, fishing or just relaxing in the woods. With a gorgeous mix of hardwoods, this property is home to all sorts of wildlife. Sit on your back patio and enjoy the shade as you listen to the birds chirping; load up the kayaks and head down the road to Tippy Dam and enjoy the sun and waves or a calming trip down the river; jump on the quad and cruise the trails on the property through the quoted 20k in mixed timber! This cabin wil allow you the perfect spot to rest your head- coming fully furnished with h$ardwood bunkbeds and other lovable furnishings this is turn key and ready for you to enjoy. Hop out the back door and head to your tree stand in the back this October, overlooking your glorious 9 ac!

$950,000 #21116571

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16863 3rd S Copemish

$210,000 #22024720

5450 Carlson Rd Manistee 7 beds, 3 baths, 3180 SF

Opportunities like this, simply don’t happen every day! Sprawling 80 acre resort on Anderson Bayou of the Big Manistee River.

Extremely well maintained 7 bedroom, 3 full bath home, with combined guest house separated by an attached garage, as well as a 24’ x 24’ bunkhouse style cabin right on the bayou!

$

Three bedrooms and 2 bath with garage offer much comfort here in Heights. You can watch the kids bus stop from the living room bay sit on the porch with your coffee in gorgeously landscaped flower bed this house and offer much potentia owner. Central air, tons of counter s huge open basement complete with , wood room and woodstove that entire house. Add a couple more down there if you want or keep it op area- the possibilities are en

22510 W 12 Mil Irons

$75,000 #22023327

Great opportunity of owning in the heart of Manistee N Forest. It has lot of potentia bath mobile home with add be converted into a nice all y place. Sits on almost 6 acre on the ORV/snowmobile tra 2 car garage. It can be a gr project or it’s ready now for The site has all RV connecti erty is for sale ‘’as is’’. It w long! Seller is related to th

Your Next Home • July 2022

16992 Caberfae Hwy Wellston

$825,000

#22019639

$125,000

7019 W 20 Rd Mesick A rare gem surrounded on all four sides by the Huron-Manistee National Forest. This property has DIRECT and private access to the area’s most loved trails. The forest offers an abundance of wildlife, ideal for a hunter and trapper.

St. h

$99,000 #22019941

$425,000 #22017755

$28,900 #22022539

$30,000 #22003589

In the heart of the Whiskey Creek lies the Woods Trail triangle of approximately 3ac. with the possibility of either commercial, residential or recreation. Underground electric and high speed DSL/cable is available at street. This place is one of a kind, if you have not explored Whiskey Creek, do it now. This not associated with either the WCCA or the WC Lodge. No Dues, Mason County Zoning only. Acreage is estimated only with no current survey. Buyers responsibility to verify all information.

Potter Rd Bear Lake Huge 24 x 20 greenhouse equipped with underground power on 4 large lots in Bear Lake. A short trip to Bear Lake or Lake Michigan, this is the perfect spot to build your forever home. Lots 17-20 total just under an acre for your use.

13604 Caberfae Hwy Wellston 4600 Sq Ft This is the perfect setting for someone looking to take over a booming vacation rental business. With limited openings left for the season, this 5 bed 2 bath house, 4 unit motel and 3 cabins make plenty of room for any occasion.

6384 S Outer Loop Drive, 98 • Custer

$35,000 #22022970

Deeded RV Recreational. Turn Key pull in Ready, Large lot in Whiskey Creek measuring nearly 1 acre. Complete with a 10x10’ storage shed a second 7x7’storage shed with decking, Firewood and pit, 100 amp electrical service with 50amp RV hookup, includes campground Well water with septic with drain field.

Annual dues on this lot is $240 Whiskey Creek is surrounded by over 22,000 acres of Federal land.Association includes clubhouse, seasonal bath house, year round road service, over 140 acres of common element property. Including 40 acres of water for fishing and swimming and nearly 100 acres of trails for you favorite means of transportation. high speed DSL/cable is available at street. This place is one of a kind, if you have not explored Whiskey Creek, do it now www.whiskeycreekcon

16262 Caberfae Hwy Wellston

$125,000 #22015535

This cozy cabin is situated right off of M-55, perfect for all season access. Just down the road from Tippy Dam in the heart of the areas best ORV and snowmobile trails. This 4 acre parcel adjoins the National Forest where you will be able to enjoy thousands of acres at your finger tips. Recently updated essentials; electricity, furnace, windows, siding, all make this a get away to feel good about. The large room on the main and large loft area upstairs could make this a great year round home as well, perfect for a small family wanting 2to be in the KND school district.

9632 Pouzar Road Interlochen Here is a beautiful 15+ aces in Grant township, right in gorgeous Grand Traverse county. WIth a cleared spot to build your dream home, and a usable driveway in, you have all you need right here. A variety of hardwoods and wildlife make this the ideal property for huting and recreational joy.

198 Cleveland St Manistee, MI 3 beds, 1 bath, 1215 SF

le Rd

a property National als. 4bed 1 dition can year round es, located ail. There is reat future r camping! ions. Propwon’t last he agent.

#22019580

This well kept and recently updated home is situated on 14+ acres, complete with a large 40x72 pole barn, separately metered (653 Warfield Rd) with its own well and septic (not hooked up), a 20x12 detached garage and a 12x18 carport perfect for storing your winters wood.

5201 E Sippy Rd Custer

This beautiful 13 acre parcel is adjoining thousands of acres of federal land on the south west corner and is perfectly situated in the heart of Manistee County’s recreation wonderland. Fishing, hunting, hiking and endless ORV and Snowmobile trails make this a prime time destination for an outdoor euthenist.

#22016471

h attached n Copemish walk to the y window or n hand. Once ds surround al for a future space, and a h a workshop at heats the e bedrooms pen for a play ndless!

$299,000

0 Steinberg Rd Wellston

$68,000

#21007049

This beautiful campground and RV park has 65 sites in total! 20 with full hook up, 45 with electricity only.

Complete with a 4 bath bath house WITH laundry service and 2 cute cabins available for primary living or rental!

721 Warfield Rd Wellston 3 beds 2 baths 2,060 SF

$77,000 #22005782

Fixer Upper. 1,200 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 1 bath home with main floor laundry. Home could you extensive remodeling. Was utilized as a long term rental by the current owner for many years.

With some elbow-grease and a bit of vision, this home could be brought back into nice shape.

July 2022 • Your Next Home

Sales & Property Management

231-299-1180

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

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Explaining easements, setbacks and CCRs

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roperty setbacks as well as easements and conditions, covenants and restrictions (CCRs) must be considered before renovating an existing home or building a new one. Setbacks are mandated buffers between surveyed property lines and permanent structures.

Easements are legal designations that enable individuals or entities to use portions of a person’s property for physical access or to build on it for one reason or another. Easements may be owned by utility companies for gas lines or government agencies when sidewalks are on a private property. Additional examples of easements include greenbelt conservation easements, beach easements or view easements, according to The Spruce, a home and lifestyle resource.

CCRs include rules established by many planned communities, subdivisions and planned unit developments. CCRs, easements and property setbacks can affect which type of renovations are allowed on particular plots and may affect the issuance of permits. It’s essential to learn about property easements, CCRs and setbacks in advance and discuss them with contractors when drawing up preliminary plans.

Your property deed or plat map as well as the local building inspection offices can highlight any regulations that may be in effect on your property and if they may affect future projects.

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Your Next Home • July 2022

For Kitchens and Bath Cabinets, Countertops, Installation and Design Come See 433 River Street, Manistee, MI (Open by Appointment - Call today) residential commercial

Pamela Schindlbeck interior/kitchen/bath designer

July 2022 • Your Next Home

PamelasInteriors.net

231-723-8688 15

Fourth of July party tips M

ore than 332 million people live in the United States, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

There’s a good chance that, come July 4th, a considerable number of those individuals will be hosting or attending parties to celebrate American independence.

This year those planning on a July 4th fête can consider these tips as they prepare to celebrate with family and friends.

• Borrow a second grill. Those tasked with grilling often find themselves standing there for hours over hot flames. Cut down on time at the grill by adding an extra cooking surface. That’s easily achieved by having more than one grill going simultaneously.

Cook fast-cooking items like hamburgers and hot dog on one grill, and reserve the other for sausages and chicken, which may need more time to reach safe levels of doneness.

• Stop peeking. Resist any urge to check the food too often. Every time you flip, press or move the meats, you compromise flavor and could make the food dry out.

• Lure insects away. Bees are attracted to sweet smells, but wasps and hornets are drawn to meats. Put a saucer of very sweet soda and some chicken scraps in a far corner of your yard to attract yellow jackets and other stinging insects to that area, drawing their attention away from guests and their meals.

• Hire a lifeguard. If your party will involve time spent in a pool, consider hiring a lifeguard or designate someone to observe pool

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activities. Party hosts may be distracted by other duties, and one can’t count on guests to watch what is going on in the pool. For safety’s sake, a dedicated set of eyes on swimmers can prevent injuries and accidents.

• Give neighbors a heads-up. Parties and barbecues on July 4th are largely expected, but you can offer a courtesy to neighbors by informing them of your plans, including the start time and proposed ending time. If you are close with neighbors, consider inviting them to participate.

• Skip the fireworks. Even if fireworks are permitted where you live, it’s best to avoid the potential safety hazards and leave fireworks displays to the professionals. Shooting off fireworks in neighborhoods causes debris to rain down on guests or land in pools, and it may even be ingested by pets or wildlife. Even sparklers can be dangerous, as they burn at 2,000 F. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says sparklers account for around 60 percent of injuries among children under five during summer festivities.

• Create a patriotic playlist. Use your favorite music streaming service to curate a music list that features America-specific songs, songs about summer and general party tunes. Be sure the music is in the background and does not overpower the conversation.

July 4th plans are heating up. When hosting a party or barbecue, keep it simple and safe.

Your Next Home • July 2022

July 2022 • Your Next Home

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How to keep pets from causing home fires

P

ets can be excitable. Though dogs anxious to get outdoors and play with their owners may be the first image of excited pets to come to mind, cats also can be compelled to move quickly when they hear sudden, loud noises or if they’re startled by visitors.

Excited pets can pose a safety hazard in homes where open flames are commonplace. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association estimates that around 1,000 home fires each year are started by pets.

Pet owners can implement strategies recommended by the American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services to reduce the risk of fire in their homes.

• Be especially careful around and mindful of open flames. Pets can easily tip over candles and gain access to fireplaces when open flames are burning. Extinguish such flames whenever leaving a room, or ask someone to come in and look after pets so they are not left unattended around flames. Even candles on fireplace

#1 SELLING AGENT* CONTACT US TODAY!

231-499-1430 *Of all agents at Benzonia, MI office

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Your Next Home • July 2022

mantels pose a hazard as curious cats can leap onto mantelpieces and tip over the candles.

curious and eager to explore their new surroundings. That makes it easy for them to find trouble even in areas where pet owners think there isn’t any. Confine pets to crates during times of day when you plan to light candles or the fireplace or install gates to keep them out of rooms where they can access open flames.

• Cover stove knobs. Stove knobs are another potential fire hazard in homes with curious pets. Knob covers prevent pets from accidentally turning on burners when no one is looking. Pet owners who let their pets roam free around the house while they’re at work or out running errands should cover stove knobs before leaving their homes.

• Purchase flameless candles. Flameless candles are a great option for pet owners whose pets are energetic or especially curious.

Flameless candles are battery-powered and provide ambient light without an open flame.

• Consider crating pets or limiting access to certain areas if animals are not yet house-trained. Puppies and kittens are especially

• Exercise caution when using a grill and/or firepit. Charcoal grills and firepits are not indoors, but they can still pose a fire hazard outside. If necessary, keep pets indoors when grilling or sitting around the firepit. If you want them to be outdoors at these times, prevent them from accessing areas where the grill and firepit are located.

Pets tend to be curious, and that curiosity can be dangerous around open flames. Some simple tips can reduce the risk of home fires caused by pets.

231-887-4222

172 Memorial Dr. • Manistee (Next to Family Dollar)

Over 50 Vendors! Stop In Today!

July 2022 • Your Next Home

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How to prepare for drought in advance

D

rought is becoming a more frequent problem. According to NASA, the last 20 years have produced some of the driest conditions in the American west on record. When drought occurs, it is now more severe and pervasive than it once was, which underscores the importance of planning for drought before it occurs.

Government efforts to combat climate change, which NASA indicates is behind the increase in drought over the last two decades, might produce large scale change needed to protect against drought. But there’s also steps private homeowners can take to prepare for drought before it occurs.

• Check your well pump regularly. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security urges homeowners who have a well pump on their properties to check them regularly for leaks. If the pump turns on and off while water is not being used, it has a leak. Addressing the leak promptly helps to conserve water, which is one of the most effective means to combatting drought.

• Plant native species. The U.S. Forest Service notes that native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. That means they will require less water and will be hardy enough to withstand heat waves in areas where especially high summer temperatures are the norm.

roots to grow deeper and hold soil moisture. That can help lawns survive drought without much intervention, including extra water during times when water restrictions are in place.

• Reseed lawns with drought in mind. When reseeding a lawn, consider the potential for drought. The DHS recommends individuals in areas affected or likely to be affected by drought plant drought-resistant lawn seed. Drought-resistant grasses, which include Bermuda and Zoysia grass, can withstand prolonged periods without water. However, before reseeding, consult a local lawn and garden professional to ensure the grass will thrive in your area.

• Devise a wise watering strategy. Come late spring, devise a watering strategy to take you through the dog days of summer.

Water-efficient irrigation systems can protect flowers, plants and shrubs during prolonged periods marked by little to no precipitation. In addition, less water will be lost to evaporation when watering during early morning or evening hours when temperatures tend to be less extreme and the sun is not as high.

If possible, hand water during these times of day or set irrigation system timers to do so.

Dry conditions are more common today than they were 20 years ago.

• Raise the blades on your lawn mower. The DHS notes that lawn That reality means homeowners must plan ahead as they try to help mower blades raised to at least three inches encourage grass their lawns and gardens survive drought.

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Your Next Home • July 2022

Give your home the protection it deserves.

Your home is where you make some of your best memories, and that’s worth protecting.

Mary Sturdevant Ins Agcy Inc Mary Sturdevant, Agent

I’m here to help.

LETS TALK TODAY.

306 Parkdale Ave Manistee, MI 49660 Bus: 231-723-9905

CRYSTAL LAKE HOME! PRIVATE FRONTAGE WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS

VACANT BUILDING SITES WITH CRYSTAL LAKE ACCESS READY FOR YOUR DREAM HOME “UP NORTH!”

LAKE MICHIGAN PRIVATE FRONTAGE WITH STUNNING VIEWS

VACANT LOT ATOP GATEWAY HILL ENTERING FRANKFORT

PRICE REDUCED!

3921 CRYSTAL DRIVE BEULAH

4060 SPRING VALLEY ROAD BEULAH

000 HIGHLAND DRIVE BEULAH

530 BEACH ROAD FRANKFORT

000 FRAN AVENUE FRANKFORT

60’ of private frontage on the north shore of Crystal Lake. 3 bed/3 bath home and a 348 sq. ft studio across the street with a full bath.

Views of the turquoise blue waters from almost every room!

Exceptional opportunity to build with seasonal views of Crystal Lake. Prime location within Crystal Highlands Association and access to the Spring Valley Swim Beach, including 2 docks, a deck, and much more. MLS #1886905

Gently sloping .69 acre building site is ready for your home.

Underground electric, natural gas and cable internet/TV. This lot provides all the opportunities to enjoy northern Michigan lake life to the fullest. MLS #1890771

100’ of private Lake Michigan frontage inside renowned Crystal Downs Country Club. Views of Sleeping Bear Dunes, North and South Manitou Islands. Shoreline erosion protection professionally installed in 2020. MLS #1900174

Half-acre lot in the Gateway Heights subdivision on Gateway Hill entering Frankfort. Located in Crystal Lake Township, quiet neighborhood w/ paved public maintained roads, undergroundutilities,naturalgas.

MLS# 1900128

MLS# 1889716

231.651.0923 KARIKINGHOMES.C21.COM July 2022 • Your Next Home

KariKing@C21Northland.com 408 Main St. • Frankfort, MI 49635 Each office independently owned and operated.

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Heather Barker (231) 510-5505

heather@golighthouserealty.com

7231 Chief Rd, Kaleva

3 Bedroom Farmhouse on 3.75 Acres with 2 Car Garage & 30x40 Pole Barn! Sawmill business and lumber available at additional cost.

Offered at $182,000!

CALL HEATHER TO GET YOUR HOME SOLD!

Casey Tennant (231) 233-7613

casey@golighthouserealty.com

13530 9 Mile Rd, Kaleva

2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath home with possible 3rd bedroom upstairs and full basement on .94 Acres in Kaleva!

Offered at $215,000!

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Your Next Home • July 2022

July 2022 • Your Next Home

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Let the Lighthouse Team work for you in 2022!

7231 Chief Rd, Kaleva, MI 49645

18550 Burnham Drive, Arcadia, MI 49613

3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath Farmhouse sitting on 3.75 acres, along with a 2 car garage, a 30 x 40 pole barn with 3 phase 480 electric and overhead crane. The Saw Mill business makes for a potential income property! Fenced in garden area and chicken coop area. Newer roof, windows, septic, and well.

Craftsman style home inspired by architect Alex Wade, 2 Bedroom, 4 Baths, energy efficient timber frame home keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

20 ft of Lake Michigan frontage surrounded by woods. Screened in porch, 3 car detached garage with loft above, and 3 sheds.

Offered at $182,000

Heather Barker • 231-510-5505

9213 Aura St., Kaleva, MI 49645 Great Opportunity! Commercial building with 2120 sq. ft. of usable space. Formerly the Maple Grove Township Hall, this building has a 720 sq. ft. attached garage and is centrally located in the Village of Kaleva, would make a great location for a new office building.

Offered at $89,900

Kerri Mackey • 231-510-8380

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Offered at $779,900

Bill LaBelle • 239-887-1037

7488 Pine Creek Rd., Manistee, MI 49660 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home with a screened in back porch allowing you to enjoy the wooded 2+ acres behind you. Home has a new furnace, new central air, new breaker box, and 3 new windows as well! Two Out-Buildings with electric (14x10, 12x8). All appliances included!

Offered at $130,000

Emily Pomeroy • 231-510-1303

Your Next Home • July 2022