MNA - Your Next Home - December 2023

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your Next Home W E S T

M I C H I G A N

Residential ■ Commercial ■ Rentals ■ Vacant Land ■ Waterfront ■ Farms SEE OUR DIRECTORY ON PAGE 4 FOR A FULL LIST OF REALTORS AND BUSINESSES. A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Benzie, Manistee & Mason Counties

Sales & Property Management

231-299-1180

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

Lighthouse Realty 360 E. Parkdale Ave. Manistee

231-398-3800 www.goLighthouseRealty.com

231-887-4455 www.dwellingrealty.com

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

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Your Next Home • December 2023

In This Issue REAL ESTATE AGENCIES & REALTORS..................................PAGE Dwelling Realty............................................................... 1 (Cover) Essential Real Estate........................................................ 1 (Cover) Lighthouse Realty........................................................... 1 (Cover) Real Estate One: Kathy Neveu......................................................2 Essential Real Estate................................................................. 8-9 Century 21: Gina Pelton.............................................................12 Lighthouse Realty: Casey Tennant.............................................13 Century 21: Kari King................................................................15 MOM Board of Realtors.............................................................16

HOME IMPROVEMENT/ DECOR COMPANIES......................PAGE Carter Lumber..............................................................................7 Pamela’s Design.........................................................................15

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Caliber Home Loans: Mindy Sedelmaier........................ 1 (Cover) Metro Mortgage...........................................................................5

ADVICE FOR THE HOME Fireplace safety during the holiday season..................................6 Should home equity loans be used to pay off credit card debt?....................................................................10 Garage storage solutions..................................................... 12-13 The benefits of residential solar energy.....................................14

HOME IMPROVEMENT/ DECOR COMPANIES Redeemed...................................................................................5 December 2023 • Your Next Home

INSURANCE COMPANIES State Farm Insurance Agency: Mary Sturdevant..........................2 MISCELLANEOUS Real Estate Transactions.............................................................11 Business Directory.......................................................................4

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Business Directory ■ Carter Lumber

231-757-9000 www.carterlumber.com

■ Caliber Home Loans:

Mindy Sedelmaier 231-233-0963

■ Century 21: Kari King

231-651-0923 www.C21Northland.com

■ Century 21: Gina Pelton

231.690.0852 gini@c21northland.com

■ Dwelling Realty

www.dwellingrealty.com

■ Essential Real Estate

231-299-1180 Therran Ferguson, Broker/Owner 231-510-1790 Michael Kruse 231-690-8882 Jenna Mahoney 231-942-9334 Chelsea Hild 231-510-3206 Sarah Mahoney 231-357-3001 Phil Landis 231-590-9341 Kevin Bishop 231-303-3595 Cassandra Ferguson 231-383-3580 Suzy Gorski 231-299-0620

■ 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 BethAnn Kozicki 231-794-8960 Bill LaBelle 239-887-1037 Leanne LaBelle 239-887-0998 Kerri Mackey 231-510-8380 Emily Pomeroy 231-510-1303 Dale Smith 231-794-9122 Cheryl Staszczak 248-805-3802 Casey Tennant 231-233-7613

■ 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

■ Redeemed

231-887-4222

■ State Farm Insurance Agency

Mary Studevant 231-723-9905

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Your Next Home • December 2023

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KATER OVIEDO Loan Officer NMLS 1379144

231-425-5555 • lakeshore.team@metromtg.com 216 Ludington Ave, Ludington, MI 49431 NMLS 129386

Gift Certificates Available

Over 50 Vendors! Stop In Today!

December 2023 • Your Next Home

231-887-4222

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

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Fireplace safety during the holiday season

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atherings with family and friends are an integral component of the holiday season. Certain rooms in the house are on display more than others, with kitchens, dining rooms and living areas serving as popular places to congregate. Of course, fireplaces also serve as popular gathering spots in homes that feature them.

Lighting a fire in the hearth can make any space more cozy, but doing so comes with some hazards. Consider these fireplace safety tips in advance of the holiday entertaining season.

• Have the fireplace inspected and swept professionally. Prior to lighting the first fire of the season, ensure that a professional inspects the fireplace, chimney and venting to ensure everything is in good condition.

The chimney also should be swept to remove excess debris and buildup that could pose a fire hazard.

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• Keep items away from the fireplace. Wrapping paper, rugs, clothing, magazines, and the like should be kept at least three feet away from the flames, suggests the American Red Cross. Also, make sure decorations are hung securely and a safe distance away from the fire.

• Check your smoke alarms. Be sure the home has working smoke alarms on every level of the house. And keep a fire extinguisher close to the fireplace.

• Never burn wrapping paper. Wrapping paper contains additives, like dyes, that make it burn extremely hot. Do not think of discarding wrapping paper by burning it in the fireplace.

places should not be near each other. Also, the Christmas tree is not safe to burn in the fireplace after the season, as the wood has not been properly dried or seasoned.

• Use a screen on the fireplace. Make sure the fireplace is properly covered by a screen to stop embers from escaping when the wood pops and sparks. The screen also can help keep decorations and other objects from falling into the fire.

• Keep the fireplace clean. Promptly remove any ash and debris from the fireplace after it has cooled to improve indoor air quality and provide greater control over the next fire when it is burned, advises the American Society of Home Inspectors.

• Keep the tree a safe distance away. Al- Fireplaces bring warmth and add ambiance to though it makes for the perfect Christmas a home, particularly during the holidays. But photo backdrop, Christmas trees and fire- safety must prevail when lighting fireplaces.

Your Next Home • December 2023

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!

December 2023 • Your Next Home

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315 4th Avenue • Manistee 2 beds 1 baths 948 SF

Sales & Property Management

231-299-1180

www.MIEssentialRealEstate.com

$157,500 #23143519

Commercial 314 Sibben Street • Manistee

$83,500 #23021070

$4,750,000 #23030761

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Highly sought after ‘’old growth’’ vintage gem built in 1880’s is ready for its next life. This commercial building with store front and residence quarters has the room and character to make a great investment. Grandfathered in to utilize the most of the 2 lots, just blocks away from Downtown Manistee. It is exempt from historical regulations and approved for a variety of uses. Extensive prep work has been completed including building repairs, temp lighting, outlets, fully gutted and Environmental assessment done. Seller is motivated and is willing to consider owner financing & land contract options.

100 Acres Cherry Road • Manistee Once in a lifetime opportunity!!! 800 feet of private frontage on Lake Michigan!

Approximately 100 Acres located on some of the most spectacular Lake Michigan sandy beach in the entire State. One of the last large developable pieces of property available on Lake Michigan in the State. In the Manistee City limits just south of downtown, the river channel, public beaches, golf courses, hotels, schools, and all of the areas attractions. The secret is out about what Manistee Michigan has to offer and parcel is a perfect candidate to live and enjoy or for development in a City that is really taking off. All serious parties, please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.

Well maintained 2 Bedroom 948 sq. ft. Bungalow on a comfortable lot with detached garage. Located on the Northside of the River Channel in Manistee less than 1 mile from Lake Michigan Beaches and Downtown Manistee. Whether you’re looking for a starter home, vacation getaway, or long-term living, this could be a great option. Home could make a great starter home. Home is prepped and ready for immediate occupancy.

Schedule your tour today!

19894 McClish Road • Copemish 3 beds 1 baths 1,196 SF 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on 18 acres!

Countryside views. Two hunting shacks included on the property. Close to Tippy Dam and Hodenpyle Dam. 20min to Crystal Mountain. 40min to Cadillac. 58min to Traverse City.

$220,000 #23032279

10 Bridge Street • Manistee 3 beds, 1 bath 1586 SF Just 1 block up from the Manistee River! 3 Bedroom Bungalow with a 2 stall garage and a nice back yard.

New decks on the front and back. The exterior of the home appears to be in great shape! 2 Storage sheds. Main floor laundry. Located in Manistee Township, not far from the Township Hall and Park, as well as shopping.

Schedule your tour today!

$179,000 #23032055

Your Next Home • December 2023

25.3 Acres V/L Oravainen Road • Kaleva

$159,000 #23030106

$450,000 #23025361

$465,000 #23029893

An Outdoorsman’s Dream!! Enjoy Spring and Fall Runs of Steelhead and Salmon in beautiful Cedar Creek right on your own 25.3 acre property. Creek width about 12 ft. to 15 ft. Depth varies by pools. Frontage on each side of Cedar Creek at Southeast corner. World-class hunting and abundant wildlife. There are hemlock, hardwood and cedar trees. All wooded with dense thicket on the north end. Two parcels being sold together 12.66 acres & 12.64 acres.

Property has some wet areas much of the year. Located in the Heart of Manistee close to so much of what makes Northern Michigan a beautiful place to be outdoors. County maintained road. Schedule your tour today!

$260,000 #23143251

21648 Hulls Road • Copemish 4 beds 3 baths 2,680 SF This spacious home sits on nearly 10 acres and will make the new buyer a wonderful homestead! Nestled between Crystal Mountain and Caberfae peaks. Rolling hills along a quiet road make for quite the peaceful scene for you to enjoy from the large deck facing south. You’ll find a large kitchen opened up to the living room on the main floor along with one large bedroom.

Upstairs another 2 bedrooms and a large space in the basement used as a primary. Park your car in the garage basement and never have to walk outside! Spring will be here soon, get ready to enjoy a large fenced in garden and beautiful perennials planed around the property. Sale can include the happiest chickens on the block!

Seller is willing to include a 10k credit directly to buyer however they will benefit most and more!

17.22 Acres 2213 US Hwy 31 S • Manistee

34 Acres Merkey Road • Manistee

17.22 Acres located on the Commercial corridor In an established trade area ready for any large developments. Underground water and sewer system installed in 2018.

Property borders Us-31 & Nelson Street (perfect for trucking and distribution).

Level property suitable for a variety of Commercial or Residential uses. Manistee Is Expanding from the Casino on the North thru Filer to the South. Sewer project has been complete!!! The time to invest Is today! several new developments In the area. Possible location for a big box store or any number of franchises. Contact Agent for more details.

Great opportunity!!! 700’ feet of private frontage on Lake Michigan! Approximately 34 Acres located on some of the most spectacular Lake Michigan sandy beach in the entire State. Wonderful property to build your Lake Michigan Dream House! In the Manistee City limits just south of downtown, the river channel, public beaches, golf courses, hotels, schools, and all of the areas attractions. The secret is out about what Manistee Michigan has to offer and parcel is a perfect candidate to live and enjoy or for development in a City that is really taking off.

All serious parties, please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.

$2,750,000 #23139868

11855 Morton Road • Manistee 3 beds 3 baths 1,998 SF

238 W Parkdale Ave. • Manistee

Built in 2007! Situated on a forest setting is this beautiful 1,998 sq. ft. 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath ranch style home on 35.43 acres with abundant wildlife in desirable Grant Township, North Mason County. Not far from Lake Michigan,and located between Manistee & Ludington. Some of the features include; large primary bedroom, main floor laundry, hard surface countertops, tile floors in the entry, bathrooms, & kitchen, large 2 car attached garage, newer foundation system in the full basement with 9 ft. ceilings, and a large covered back porch with composite decking. Home is less than 17 years old and built to 2007 construction code.

3 Units! Great Commercial/Residential Opportunity! Excellent location and excellent condition! Located on the US-31 business corridor in Parkdale just north of Manistee.

Large paved private parking lot. Washer & dryer in upstairs apartment. Separate utilities.

Currently the upstairs 2 bedroom apt is rented for $950/month plus utilities. Back main floor apt is rented for $575/month plus utilities. Utilize or lease the 1,000 sq. ft. commercial office space office that could potentially rent for around $900/ month. New roof in 2016. Handicap ramp to main offices. Vinyl siding. Updated mechanicals.

Air in offices and upstairs apartment. New 4’’ well in 2003. New Septic in 2020. High visibility in this Manistee location

December 2023 • Your Next Home

3 Units

$235,000 #23028273

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Should home equity loans be used to pay off credit card debt?

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redit card debt could be compromising the financial security and well-being of millions of individuals.

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans’ total credit card balance in the second quarter of 2023 was more than $1 trillion, and LendingTree reports that the average credit card balances among U.S. cardholders in December 2022 was $7,279. Average balances are lower but still a concern in Canada, where data from TransUnion® indicates the average cardholder had an outstanding balance of $3,909 as of the first quarter of 2023.

Effective credit utilization is a vital component of long-term financial health. The average credit card balances in both the U.S. and Canada suggest many consumers are putting their financial futures in jeopardy by relying too heavily on credit to fund their lifestyles. The good news is consumers tend to have a sense of self-awareness regarding their credit usage, as a recent NerdWallet survey of more than 2,000 adult consumers found that 83 percent of respondents acknowledged they overspend.

Recognition of an over-reliance on credit could be a solid first step toward eradicating debt,

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and consumers who own their homes may con- ically much lower than the rate on credit cards, sider home equity loans or lines of credit in an so homeowners can theoretically save a lot of effort to tame their debt once and for all. money by paying off their credit card debt with a home equity loan.

What is a home equity loan?

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Are there risks associated with using notes that a home equity loan allows home- home equity to pay off credit card debt? owners to borrow money using the equity in Though lower interest rates and consolidated their home as collateral. Equity is the amount a debt are two advantages to paying off consumproperty is currently worth minus the amount er debt with a home equity loan, this option currently owed on a mortgage. So if a home is risky. Perhaps the biggest risk associated is worth $500,000 and homeowners have a with this approach is the potential of losing a mortgage balance of $300,000, then their eq- home. Individuals with substantial credit card uity is $200,000. debt should know that a lack of discipline when using a home equity loan to pay off debt Why do homeowners consider home eq- could result in foreclosure. If homeowners uity loans to pay off debt? cannot make their monthly loan payments on One of the biggest concerns when consumers time, they could lose their home. In addition, wrack up lots of credit card debt is the likeli- Bankrate notes that if a home is sold with an hood that they will end up paying substantial outstanding home equity loan balance, that amounts of interest on that debt. That’s be- balance must be repaid at once. cause credit cards typically have high interest rates. Indeed, the LendingTree reports that Home equity loans can help homeowners coneven consumers with good credit may have an solidate and ultimately eliminate their credit APR around 21 percent on their credit cards. card debt. However, this approach carries a That figure only grows for consumers with low- level of risk, so homeowners may benefit from er credit scores. Bankrate notes that the aver- working with a financial advisor to determine age interest rate for a home equity loan is typ- the best way to pay off their existing debts.

Your Next Home • December 2023

Manistee News Advocate

Recorded Sales for the Month of: October 2023 V/L RIVER RD V/L BIRCHWOOD DR 16321 THOMPSONVILLE RD HARBOR VILLAGE MARINA UNIT # 17 2680 HIGH BRIDGE RD V/L PORTAGE PARK V/L PINE MEADOWS DR V/L JOHNSON RD 17096 STATE ST V/L BUTWELL RD VILLAGE OF ONEKAMA V/L ST PIERRE RD 8532 OSMO ST V/L HOXEYVILLE RD 12460 RUSSELL ST V/L PORTAGE PARK 17693 VIADUCT RD 1388 HILL RD V/L BAKER RD 820 WALL ST V/L THIRTEEN MILE RD 10165 NURNBERGER RD 530 NINTH ST V/L RUDMAN RD V/L HEALY LAKE RD V/L NORMAN RD 814 S TIPPY DAM RD 8277 PORTAGE ST V/L SCHOEDEL RD 15839 PLEASANTON HWY V/L N CUSTER RD FORESTVIEW DR 2138 SNYDER RD 2547 S US-31 HWY 1396 S BAKER RD 356 FIRST ST 4427 CRESCENT BEACH RD 5858 OUTBACK RIDGE 335 RIVER ST 9522 JOUPPI RD December 2023 • Your Next Home

$14,000 $14,000 $15,000 $17,050 $18,000 $20,000 $22,000 $27,000 $29,000 $29,900 $32,000 $35,000 $40,000 $45,000 $46,000 $49,500 $50,000 $59,000 $60,000 $65,000 $65,000 $75,000 $75,000 $85,000 $89,900 $100,000 $100,000 $112,000 $119,000 $120,000 $139,900 $150,000 $150,000 $155,000 $155,000 $159,505 $165,000 $168,000 $170,000 $170,000

15770 HEALY LAKE RD $170,000 283 S MAIN ST $171,000 210 5TH AVE $173,000 266 FREMONT ST $175,000 22440 CABERFAE HWY $175,000 V/L CHICAGO AVE $180,000 3897 PINE CREEK RD $180,000 12082 MAPLE ST $185,000 224 ST MARY’S PARKWAY $190,000 110 WASHINGTON ST $195,000 2271 RED APPLE RD $227,500 115 MCKEE ST $229,000 V/L ADAMSON LAKE RD $229,000 12234 MAPLE ST $234,500 10303 NURNBERGER RD $235,000 14975 CREAMERY RD $235,000 V/L BISCHOFF RD $235,500 5975 FALK RD $240,000 V/L DEER RIDGE DR $240,000 512 FAIRVIEW AVE $254,000 890 HIGH BRIDGE RD $255,000 9289 WALTA AVE & 9274 WALTA AVE $270,000 8110 AMES RD $281,000 5029 S COUNTYLINE RD $291,000 3376 CHIPPEWA HWY $310,000 $315,000 8322 FELDHAK RD 12476 13 MILE RD $337,500 181 JOSLIN COVE DR $339,000 1580 ARBOR DR $375,000 1940 RED APPLE RD $385,000 94 SPINNAKER DR #22 $385,000 706 ROBINSON ST $420,000 8359 SECOND AVE $440,000 12726 COATES HWY $520,000 448 E PINEY RD $555,000 452 HUFF RD $629,000 1400 PARKDALE AVE $740,000 22406 RIVER RD $750,000 262 LAKESHORE DR $1,100,000 11

Garage storage solutions

SPO PONSO NSORED RED CO CONTENT

G ini Pe Pe lt on – Bui B uildin ldingg , Su Supp or t in ingg , an and G row in ingg th t h e Ma Ma ni niss t e e Co C omm mmuni unitt y With just over 6,000 residents, Manistee is a community where everybody knows each other.

And with her involvement with local community organizations and real estate, it doesn’t take six degrees of separation for you to get to Gini Pelton. With 30+ years of supporting and promoting the beauty of the Manistee community, Pelton is your friendly neighbor who will make anyone excited to live in or visit Manistee.

Gini Pelton has been the #1 real estate agent in Manistee County for the past five years and an ambassador for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce—credentials boasting her love and expertise in Manistee. “I love that I can share the life I live here with other people,” states Pelton, whether she’s selling real estate properties to local families or giving her famous “10 cent tours” to visitors.

Immersing in the Manistee community through local organizations and events has always been a passion for Pelton. However, relocating from South Haven meant she was first an outsider whose love for Manistee would soon make her and her family beloved members

of the community.

So, how did an ambitious woman from Michigan Farm Country make it happen? Pelton’s work ethic was established early on in life by working their 400-acre family farmland as the oldest of 10 siblings. “If you didn’t learn how to work there, I don’t know when you’d ever learn how to work!” Her work ethic established an early foundation of success while still in South Haven, involved in everything from selling cars to owning a children’s store. However, an opportunity in 1992 for her husband to be a part of the opening staff for the newly built Oaks Prison introduced a new chapter for Pelton’s career, who uprooted her and her family’s lives to Manistee.

“Moving to a town where families have lived for generations was a bit hard. But that’s why you have to jump in and volunteer because that’s how you’re going to meet people. Don’t expect other people to get it done for you.” It didn’t take long for Pelton to become a familiar face in town thanks to her involvement with the Manistee Recreation Association coaching 18

Gini Pelton Northland

gini@c21northland.com 231.690.0852 For all your Real Estate needs #JustcallGini #ManisteethePlacetoBe

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seasons for a championship traveling soccer team and community projects such as co-chairing the building of Lighthouse Park. Decades later and her enthusiasm for volunteering continues, currently holding roles on the Manistee Housing Commission, a seat on the Board of Directors of the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, the board for the Munson Manistee Hospital Foundation, and member of Lakeside Club of Manistee County.

Pelton balanced her volunteer pursuits with building her career in Manistee. Her extensive real estate expertise comes from involvement in several aspects of the business. In 1993, Pelton started working for MSHDA as a Housing Agent for Lake, Manistee & Mason Counties. In 2004, she ran Reitz Park & Horizon Pointe. Then, in 2006, did Rental Management for West Shore Rental, leased & sold Property. Finally, in 2012, she became a full-time real estate agent for Century 21, where she’s been ever since.

As a real estate agent, she can relate firsthand to the many families relocating to the Manistee area. “I encourage families to volunteer and get involved.” And notes that Manistee is the perfect location to live or visit for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a better quality of life.

“What we have is a community surrounded by nature, so we have First Street Beach and Fifth Avenue Beach, the Manistee Riverwalk, hiking trails, and skiing within 30 minutes.” In addition, the historic downtown features landmarks like the Ramsdell Theater, the Vogue Theater, and buildings dating back to the early 19th century during the lumber baron era. “I’m lucky. I get to walk four blocks, and I’m at Lake Michigan. Within 10 minutes, I’m downtown with shops and restaurants.”

Pelton agrees that Manistee is a place worth experiencing to see if it’s the right fit. “It’s a quieter lifestyle, but it’s a quality lifestyle” To paint a better

picture, Pelton notes that the nearest Target is an hour away. Still, the Manistee community has everything you need without even leaving town—“we’ve got great stores, restaurants, bars Downtown Manistee and throughout the county. Downtown alone, we have a Kitchen, Beverage, Shoe, Clothing, Home, Gift, Antique, and Collectible stores, along with great places to eat and the two historic theaters. We’ve got it all!”

Between being a top real estate agent, volunteering in the community, and setting time aside for personal life, Pelton has found a healthy balance to give 100% in all her endeavors. “You have to mix fun, work, and volunteering,” she says. Her two children are already adults living in Detroit and New Hampshire, so she’s able to dedicate more time to her passion projects. Her daily agenda can include a line-up of meetings with her various community organizations and realtor duties.

Aside from work, family is a major pillar in Pelton’s life. Lucky to have her husband of 45 years, Scott, who is retired & maintains their home. Lucky to have her 95 year old mother living in Manistee while her brother maintains the family farm. Her children also keep her on the move, with her daughter Caitlin residing in Detroit with her three grandchildren; and her son Conor living in New Hampshire, with a her newest grandchild who she travels to visit. She also finds time to travel for her own pleasure. “Lucky to have traveled this year to Jamaica and Ireland,” although one of her favorite beaches is just a few blocks from home in Manistee.

Gini Pelton is an active member of the Manistee community who makes it her business to connect with local store owners, volunteering her time to support community organizations, and appreciating the beautiful nature surrounding it. Get in touch with Gini Pelton via phone or email to learn more about what makes Manistee special and how you, too, can get involved with the community!

Your Next Home • December 2023

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ho doesn’t have a space at home that serves as a catch-all for items that seemingly have no other home? For many, this storage wasteland where items go to be forgotten tends to be the garage. Before long, clutter can overwhelm the space and create an eyesore. Garage clutter also makes the space less functional by making it harder to park a vehicle or store equipment.

Organizing a garage takes work, but the end result can improve the appearance, free up space, make work more efficient, and make it easier to find and use tools more readily. Here are some ways to get started on organizing your garage.

Start with cleaning and culling One of the first steps when organizing a garage is to thoroughly analyze what is needed and what can be removed from the garage. If items belong elsewhere, such as in a shed or the basement, move these items first. Discard damaged or broken items. Next, move on to tools or gear that hasn’t been used in some time. Will you use it again? If the item has been collecting dust for years, you

December 2023 • Your Next Home

likely already know the answer to that question.

weight of pressure put on them. Verify the maximum weight so that racks will not buckle or tip Pile all items in the driveway so you have a clean over and cause issues. slate with which to start. Measure the room to figure out the dimensions so you’ll know how much Utilize overhead space wall space is available for storage.

Overhead storage can be reserved for items that aren’t used frequently, such as seasonal decorations Free up floor space or luggage.

The ultimate goal of a garage storage renovation is to make floor space available, according to Stacey Out of sight Schweiger of Sunshine Organizing. Lifting items Some items should be stored out of sight and off the floor makes access easier, and protects beyond the reach of children and pets. Cabinets items should there be a flood or leaks. and containers can be used and locked to secure materials, such as fertilizers, paints, solvents, and A combination of wall shelves, overhead shelves, other chemicals. cabinets, and wall hooks can help homeowners create more floor area. Organization becomes eas- Additional ideas ier when everything has a designated space where Magnets, pegboards, organization bins and sysit can be easily returned to. tems, and similar products can be used to corral small or errant items like hand tools, fasteners and Consider weight more.

When investing in shelving and racks, remember that many of the items stored in garages tend to Garage organization will take some planning and be heavy. It’s important to ensure that shelves and time, but the end result can be well worth the efhooks are heavy-duty and able to withstand the fort.

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The benefits of residential solar energy S olar energy panels have gained visibility in neighborhoods across the country.

Where it once was a rarity to see solar panels on the roofs of homes, today a stroll or drive around a given community is bound to reveal a number of homeowners have made the transition to solar power. You may be wondering if the investment is worth it.

Solar panels harvest energy from the sun through the use of photovoltaic cells. These semiconductor materials absorb photons from the sun, and the photons release electrons from the atoms of the semiconductor material. According to Forbes, the flow of these electrons within the cell creates an electric current directed to circuits. Solar panels can be placed anywhere there is abundant sunlight, such as in open fields. In residential areas, they’re most often placed on roofs to get the most sun exposure.

Although having solar panels on the roof may affect the aesthetic of a home, many people find the benefits far outweigh such issues.

Consider these perks to going solar.

• Save money: One of the draws of solar

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power is the ability to save money on your monthly utility bill. Electricity costs seemingly rise year after year. The Solar Energy Industries Association® says the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade compared to the cost of electricity, which has risen about five percent. Over the course of a solar panel life span, which is typically between 25 and 30 years, it’s possible to save $25,500 to $33,000 on electricity.

• More affordable: As noted, the cost of installing solar panels continues to drop.

Investopedia says up-front cost of a residential solar power system is between $3,500 and $16,000, depending on the size of the system. Energy.gov says the United States has extended the federal residential solar tax credit, and you can save a 30 percent tax credit on the cost of solar systems through January 1, 2033. Options abound for financing to make solar more affordable.

their homes by $20 for every $1 in savings on electrical bills from solar energy. Homes with solar panels sell 4 percent higher than those that don’t have them.

• Get paid back: Solar incentives in some areas may enable homeowners to turn profits in addition to generating electric bill savings. Solar renewable energy credits compensate you for the electricity that the solar panel system generates.

• Avoid disruptions in power: Strong storms or even accidents that affect power lines can knock out traditional electricity for hours. Battery storage combined with solar energy can be beneficial during a disruption in power, and eliminate the need to purchase a backup generator.

• Protect the planet: Burning of fossil fuels to generate power contributes to carbon emissions. Switching to solar can reduce carbon emissions and help prevent air and water contamination.

• Increased home value: According to Solar energy panels are becoming more visible the National Renewable Energy Laborato- in residential neighborhoods thanks in large ry, homeowners can increase the value of parts to the many benefits such panels provide.

Your Next Home • December 2023

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

December 2023 • Your Next Home

PamelasInteriors.net

231-723-8688

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