Monday, March 8, 2010

grand rapids' first neighborhood

Did you know that Grand Rapids is home to one of the largest urban historic districts in the country? The neighborhood known as Heritage Hill, is a showcase of more than 60 architectural style of homes that date from 1848.

With a premier location in the City, the "Hill", as it is commonly referred to, is a truly walkable neighborhood-close to theaters, restaurants, boutique shops, universities, and for many of its residents...work.

Bound by Crescent Street to the north, Union to the east, Pleasant to the south and Lafayette to the west, the 1,300 homes within the historic district are unique and beautiful. Many have been lovingly restored.


Heritage Hill is also home to the spectacular Meyer May House - designed by America's most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

The home was built in 1909 for a prominent Grand Rapids businessman. It was subsequently acquired by Steelcase Corporation, restored to its original splendor, and opened to the public in 1987. You can tour the house year-round, and admission is free!

If you love the character and history an old home offers, and want to be close to downtown, Heritage Hill is a great choice. With the average price of a home under $200,000, there are tremendous values to be found. Several apartment and condominium communities are also located in the Hill. The best resource for rental options can be found through the Heritage Hill Neighborhood Association.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

living in downtown grand rapids

If you're looking to move downtown, you certainly have a lot of choices. Between homes and condos, there are currently more than 140 properties for sale in the area defined as Grand Rapids' city limits. You can live efficiently in a 600 square foot condo, or live large in one of the new penthouses at 38 Commerce or the McKay Tower.

Just look at some of the wonderful spaces that await you, such as this bright, open kitchen in a great old building downtown:

 

Even the bath offers a nod to the past. Love the brick wall with the old mural!
On the opposite end of the design spectrum, the new residences on Commerce hint at a more modern, urban feel:


Grand Rapids is abuzz with excitement and activity. And there are even more choices in the neighborhoods surrounding downtown Grand Rapids. If you ever have questions about homes or condos for sale in and around downtown Grand Rapids, I can help.