Photos from Lola Audu~Real Estate Broker/Owner Grand Rapids, Michigan Real Estate
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. View of geen houses which hold a number of tropical species of plants.Located in: Grand Rapids, MI
Recently, our office decided to visit some of the downtown Grand Rapids, MI condominium developments. During the tour, we drove by the Voigt House, a historic Victorian Museum. This unique 19th century home was the residence of the Voigt family for 76 years until 1907. It has been preserved with the original furnishings and personal belongings of the family...a fascinating inside view of what life was like in the Victorian era in Grand Rapids.
The Museum is open every Tuesday between 11:00 a.m. ~ 3 p.m. and every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. It is also available for special occasions such as wedding ceremonies and special dinners. On the day that we dropped by, they were preparing for a special fund raising dinner.
The Voigt House is located in a larger historic community in Grand Rapids, Mi known as the Heritage Hill neighborhood. Heritage Hill comprises of approximately 1300 properties adjacent to the downtown Grand Rapids area. The houses date from 1848 and represent over 60 different types of architectural designs. It was this community that the well-to-do, like the lumber barons, teachers, legislatures and judges who shaped the course of the city lived.
Today, Heritage Hill is a vibrant and eclectic community and comprises of a diverse group of professionals, artisans and home owners from every background imaginable. It's a wonderful community to drive through and look at the grand homes which defined the city's past and are continuing to actively shape it's future.
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
I've always admired the dedication of the long distance runner. There is something striking and powerful about the endurance that it takes to run miles and miles and still have the stamina to finish strong. I participated in track & field events all through high-school. I was always a sprinter, so distance running was limited to training and was rarely more than a mile.
Consequently, there's a part of me that wonders what if feels like to run and not be weary. Or at least to run for a long time and actually want to keep on going! Every year, for the last 14 years, thousands of long distance runners gather in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan for a race that has gained increasing national prominence. The Fifth Third River Bank Run. This year, the 25K event will take place on May 10th, 2008. The event has also been selected by the United States Track & Field Association to host the USA 25K Masters Championship in 2008. Prizes for men & women who place in the Top 10 are $21,000.
A feature which has brought added dimension to the race is the Road Warriors Blog. This collection of entries by runners and participants at various levels offers a unique perspective of the Fifth Third River Bank Run. Last year close to 14,000 people from 40 states, Canada, Kenya, Mexico, Russia and South Africa competed in the 2007 event which drew crowds of over 26,000 spectators and observers.
The race starts and ends in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan and is a wonderful showcase for the cityscape which has been transformed by a number of new modern highrises and restoration projects on historic buildings.
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
In spite of evidence to the contrary, there are only 2 seasons in Michigan. Construction Season & Non-Construction Season. With the snow and ice that make it necessary to heavily salt our roads, the thawing and re-freezing is more than the asphalt can bear. Thus the breakdown of our road systems which becomes painfully evident to your car during the Non-Construction Season...particularly during winter.
It seems that this year has been particularly bad. I find myself feeling as though I'm weaving through traffic as I try to avoid some of the biggest Whoppers that I've seen in recent memory. These potholes are scary. Sometimes the jarring is so bad, you feel sorry for your poor car! I'm not alone.
The Grand Rapids Press announced that there is a New Contest being announced for the Photograph of the Biggest Pothole! Apparently, a lot of drivers are experiencing real frustration that our roads which used to be some of the best in the nation are now in such disrepair. But, I'm left wondering...How are people going to get those pictures? That exercise alone could be hazardous to your health!
We live in amazing times. Last night as I watched the results come in from "Super Duper Tuesday," I was thinking about how extraordinary what we are witnessing in America is. Even the pundits are stymied. For the first time since Harding...it looks like the next president will be a Senator.
From there the odds become even more fascinating. The four front runners are a middle aged white woman, a young African American man, an elderly white man and white man from a minority religion. Then there's a preacher who seemed to come from nowhere and has NO money who is winning votes because people are willing to work for him for FREE while the white guy who has tons of money and lots of TV ads can't win enough votes to get ahead.
I'm a little dismayed with this new science of hair splitting the vote. No one seems to be embarrassed about divving up the electorate into white votes, black votes, Latino votes, rich votes, poor votes, red states, blue states, youth votes, elderly votes...Hey, where's the American vote? Even more perplexing...there's far more discussion about the likability factor than there is about issues. In fact, anyone who points out issues is now labelled as mean. What??
Oh, who can forget the images of a former president re-running for his or is it her election?
Well, a small town in Michigan has an event taking place this February 23rd which is oddly descriptive. It is the Outhouse 500...an annual event in which teams parade and race uniquely outfitted outhouses along Main St. It's quite a sight and includes: a 5K run, Live Music, Children's events, Art Contest and a Chili Blast. Participants seem to have a blast!
Sometimes, reality is more absurd than fiction, sometimes it's not! With the events shaping up politically this year, I'm not sure which will be more unbelievable. One thing is certain however,...it promises to be a long, long year before this is all over. So, settle down and watch them race the Outhouses! Unbelievable...but verifiably true. :)
There was an interesting story in our local Northwest Advance newspaper (January 27th, 2008) The article by Jeffrey Cunningham was entitled "City Council debates to to enforce local ordinances." Zoning ordinances can sometimes become prickly issues and this was the case apparently when Fountain View Nursing Home in Coopersville, Michigan complained about neighbors who were letting junk pile up in their yards.
City officials stepped in and forced the offenders to clean up their trash by taking them to court. However, it seems that the same standards have not been applied when the nursing home itself has violated city ordinance by parking a semi-trailer on their property in violation of zoning restrictions in a residential area. According to the paper, City officials have been in contact with the facility, yet nothing has been done in over a year. Fountain View Nursing home uses the trailer as a collection site for its paper-drive fund-raisers.
This issue has brought to the forefront a concern about the enforcement of ordinances. When ordinances are selectively employed, things can become messy. When one party is in violation and is taken to court yet other offenders are treated more leniently, it can look like favoritism.
Then there is the issue of being a good neighbor. Some folks in the community feel that zoning violations should be handled on a person to person basis. Coopersville is a small town and some residents don't feel that the same standards that apply to larger municipalities should pertain here. Some would argue that residents of this small community are more relaxed in their lifestyles and those who want stricter codes can move to more "upscale" suburban enclaves like East Grand Rapids.
The city council has decided to hold a workshop later this month to determine how city ordinances should be enforced in the city. It seems to me that the word "how" is potentially a slippery slope. If how refers to ordinances being enforced on the basis of the legal ordinances...then the moral code of law and justice is upheld. However, if "how" gives latitude to certain violations and turns a blind eye towards others, then there may be a weakening of the moral fiber which binds this community together. It will be interesting to watch how this all plays out.
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
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Grand Rapids, Michigan Real Estate including information on local real estate market conditions and insights from Lola Audu ~l Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate Broker.
Lola Audu, CRS GRI
Associate Real Estate Broker & Owner Audu Real Estate
, Grand Rapids, Michigan
I have been a Realtor since 1995 and have had the opportunity to meet and assist hundreds of families and individuals. Over 95 percent of my clients hear about me from a friend or family member. I don't believe in a cookie cutter approach, rather I think that each transaction should be handled the way a skilled tailor would fashion a suit made to fit.
I have travelled extensively within the United States and several countries. My background in an international community exposed me to individuals from all over the world. As our nation becomes increasingly diverse, this wonderful opportunity I have to live, work, play and gain knowledge about all God's children is a gift I celebrate every day!
*Lola has written and taught a variety of courses. View her Training courses on-line....
An important professional development this year is the opening of our new real estate agency, Audu Real Estate. We've outgrown our previous location and will be moving to a brand new refurbished office on the corner of Alpine and 4 Milejust behind our current office. The address is 3659 Alpine Our office suite is adjacent to Audu Engineering Consultants, a full service civil enginering firm. Audu Engineering Consultants also provides structural services and design consultation for subdivision developers which enhances the options available to our investor clients.
Our team currently has full-time real estate specialists who work with several auxiliary consultants in the lending and inspection industry and strive to provide memorable, grace-filled real estate transactions to our clients, their family and friends. Each Client Specialist at Audu Real Estate commits to a rigorous on-going program of training and personal development. "On Track for Success" our agent training program is a 1-2 year long apprenticeship to ensure that the skill and art required to become a professional real estate practitioner are mastered.
As Internet savvy real estate professionals, we utilize the power of blogs and online professional networking to enhance the flow of information about the housing market in Grand Rapids, Mi and to market the homes we represent. Because we embraced this emerging technology early, our clients receive are kept abreast of the latest developments which are impacting the purchase or sale of a home.
This commitment to excellence and dedication to our clients is expressed daily in follow-up, follow-through and results! Meeting and exceeding your expectations means that home sellers and home purchasers receive extensive research for their homes and several have received multiple offers on homes listed for sale this year; one of the most challenging markets our local area has ever experienced!
Audu Real Estate: How We do Things Differently.
In addition to assisting sellers with selling their homes and assisting buyers with their home purchase, we offer a number of specialized unique services and products which include:
1. Staging your Home for Success
We provide staging expertise to help you make your home a memorable showing experience for potential home buyers and their real estate agents. We have access to a number of individuals who have extensive experience in interior design and home accessorizing. The service of staging can cost several hundreds of dollars, but there are indications that a properly staged home nets 7-13% More than a home which is not staged. This service is FREE to our clients. To learn more....
2. E-Neighborhood Reports- FREE to our Seller & Buyer Clients
An E-Neighborhood Report is a detailed 15-30 page report about the neighborhood including recent sales, types of financing, community demographics, types of homes and much more! We also make this informative report available to buyers to compare up to 4 DIFFERENT communities before making an important investment decision. The E-Neighborhood neighborhood analysis is combined with a Professionally prepared Comparative Market Analysis to focus on homes which are most like yours in your community. The benefits of understanding these facts prior to listing or purchasing a home are important in protecting your home equity. To learn more...
3. Broker is also a trained Loan Originator and has processed closed loans
We are Realtors and this is by choice. But as the mortgage industry has expanded in recent years, it became clear that we needed to have more understanding in this area for the benefit of serving our clients. We are able to provide assistance to clients in selecting the right loan and reviewing options for financing. The Broker's knowledge of financing has helped clients make wise choices in a number of different situations including re-financing a home, negotiating short sales with banks and comparing different mortgage programs. We will work to create a cooperative working arrangement with any Mortgage lender the buyer selects and monitor the transaction to ensure a smooth closing.
4. Experience with Relocation and Sales nationwide and internationally
We have closed transactions with clients in a number of states and have worked with clients who have been relocated or been on assignment overseas during the process of transaction. Lola Audu's cross-cultural experience in living and visiting several countries on three continents gives her a window to the world and this appreciation and dexterity enables us to provide an understanding environment which is sensitive to the unique challenges of differences in backgrounds and culture. We serve and honor the dignity of the human soul and that transcends culture.
5. Foreclosure & Short Sale Negotiation
For Homeowners...
We have successfully negotiated and assisted many clients through the bewildering and disheartening process that often accompanies the unfortunate circumstances which may necessitate a short sale. Our focus and energy is directed in giving sound counsel and providing clarity. We understand that by the time a short sale or foreclosure is necessary, people are drained on a number of different levels. Our goal is to provide the information & support to get the home sold and whenever possible avoid more trauma.
For Home Buyers...
Grand Rapids, Michigan has recently gained national recognition as being one of the most affordable places to live in the United States. This is a solid community and Investors are beginning to appreciate the opportunities that exist here. If you are interested in investing in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, this is an excellent time to be a buyer. We provide a number of services and referrals for Investor clients.
Get Free List of Forclosures in West Michigan and surrounding communities....
6. Thoroughly Well Trained Agents
Every new agent with Audu Real Estate is enrolled in a 1-2 year apprenticeship. In addition to weekly educational classes, agents are required to complete assignments and work with a skilled Mentor to develop their skill set. All contracts are reviewed by the Mentor. Because we know that we can't improve or correct what we do not know, ALL clients are given an opportunity to grade our agent experience. Compliments our agents have received can be viewed here. You can also see Examples of Class Selections and Training offered through Audu Real Estate including our NEW 2007 Learning Series.
7. Negotiation of Transaction & follow-up Through to Closing
We present all offers and include a Net Sheet. There is NEVER a surprise about the proceeds at a closing. Negotation is a skill set and an art form. It requires an understanding of legal implications and an ability to protect and enhance a clients options and position. The real estate transaction is inherently adversarial. Both parties aim to get the best deal possible. We don't think this necessitates enmity. Our aim is to ensure a fair and good result for our clients. We know that our reputation for fairness and competence benfits our clients and their real estate concerns.
When you're ready, Use this Site to Search for Homes in Various Local Grand Rapids Area School Districts....
Search the Local MLS for Homes in Byron Center School District,Allendale School District,
Cedar Springs School District, Caledonia School District
Comstock Park School District, East Grand Rapids School District
Forest Hills School District,Grand Rapids School District
Grandville School District,Wyoming School District
8. Other Stuff...
Yes, there are all sorts of things that we do to serve our clients. First of all, it is our sincere desire to build friendships, not just sell homes. We take the time to really listen and seek to understand. We keep in touch, not just because it is our job, but because we want our clients to be informed participants in the process and we also enjoy touching base. We've assisted with arrangements for cleaning, moving unwanted debris, shoveled snow, made a bed, done some dishes. But, what's this amongst friends! Lastly, we know that no one is introduced to our practice by accident. We strive to discern the true reason for the encounters we experience. Our weekly prayer focus for each client is for God's blessing in their lives in the way they need it most. Sometimes, this may be the greatest service we give.
BLOG DISCLAIMER
The information contained in the articles on this blog is the property of Audu Real Estate. Comments posted in response to individual blog posts are the opinions of the respondents. Audu Real Estate is not responsible for the opinions, thoughts or ideas expressed by visitors to this blog nor for any liability for any damages or losses direct or indirect that may result from the
use or reliance on information contained herein. The information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This blog is provided for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to contact a real estate professional for specific counsel related to their individual real estate needs.
Recent testimonial-- 2008
January 21, 2008
To Whom It May Concern:
After my husband got a new job, we needed to move. Having been married just over a year, we were not planning to become homeowners so soon, but seeing that the market seemed to favor buyers, we decided to look into purchasing our first home. We received a personal referral from a close friend to consider Audu Real Estate. After our initial meeting with Lola Audu, we knew we had found the right real estate agency.
Lola was very personable and genuinely interested in our needs. She asked us what kind of things we were looking for in a home, but she also asked us what our personal interests were and where we saw ourselves in the future. We enjoyed the conversation and were impressed by the holistic approach that Lola took. In addition she explained many of the home buying process basics. Click here to continue reading...
Dear Renee & Lola
I wanted to write a quick note and thank you BOTH for all the love and concern and just plain WORK you put into our journey of finding the "right" owner for my folks home these last 6 months.
I was pleased from beginning to end with everything. It was all handled with such excellence and I am sure quick to refer anyont to your company, Lola :) And thank you for the lovely roses that were delivered to the office on Friday...What a treat!!! You two were the best. Thanks again for everything,
Thank you so-o-o much for your diligence; but most of all for your prayers. Praise God
Flo G.
Dear Lola,
Thank you for taking time for the staging appointment at my folks home. What a neat experience! I learned so much and realized how much you know. Thanks again for being everything God has called you to be.
Love Sue
Dear Lola & Ed,
Thank you for giving us such a smooth closing on the condo. It is always enjoyable to work with professional Realtors like yoursevles.
Best wishes,
Dave
P.S. Let's not wait another 5 years to do another deal!
Things went great! Thank you again.
Rich & Linda
Please visit us on-line at http://www.auduhomes.com/ to view many comments from our clients!
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