Got first-time home buyer questions? Ross Bacon of May Group Realtors covers the hardest part of buying a house, the biggest mistakes buyers make, and whether you should buy a smaller home first.

In this video, Ross Bacon of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids answers the most common first-time home buyer questions he gets every day: how to get started, why talking to a lender comes before everything else, the difference between your approval amount and your comfort zone, what closing costs and earnest money actually mean, how long the buying process takes, whether you really need an agent, how to make a competitive offer, what the hardest part of buying a house really is, the biggest first-time buyer mistakes to avoid, and whether buying a smaller starter home makes sense for you.

Who This Is For

This is for anyone thinking about buying their first home and feeling overwhelmed by the process. Whether you’re just starting to research or you’re almost ready to make a move, this video will help you feel informed, confident, and prepared — not rushed.

Timestamps

0:00 — Introduction

0:33 — How do I get started?

1:40 — Approval amount vs. your comfort zone 

2:15 — What type of lender should you use?

3:33 — Down payment requirements by loan type

4:40 — How long does the buying process take?

5:20 — Do you really need a buyer’s agent?

6:28 — How do you know what to offer?

7:20 — What’s the hardest part of buying a house?

6:53 — Are you ready to buy? Final thoughts

Have a question we didn’t cover? Or starting the conversation about buying in the Grand Rapids area, reach out using the link below. We’d love to help. Subscribe for more real estate tips and information all about living in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

LET’S CONNECT

Grab our free First-Time Home Buyer tips: https://mailchi.mp/marketgr/homebuyer 

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com  

Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors

#firsttimehomebuyer  #homebuyertips  #buyingahouse  #grandrapidsrealestate  #realestatetips #firsttimebuyermistakes  #homebuying101  #mortgagetips  #preapproval  #realestate  #westmichiganrealestate  #remax #starterhome #howtobuyyourfirsthome

This video is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or mortgage advice. Loan programs, down payment requirements, and closing cost estimates vary by buyer, lender, and market conditions. Always consult a licensed real estate professional and mortgage lender for guidance specific to your situation.

Thinking about moving to the West Grand neighborhood in Northwest Grand Rapids? In this video, Scott Bradford with the May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids takes you on a tour of West Grand's boundaries, housing market, local events, and best food spots, so you know exactly what to expect before you buy or rent here.

⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS

Introduction (0:00) 

Boundaries & Location (0:21) 

Housing & Real Estate (0:58) 

Local Businesses & Community Events (1:44) 

Summary (2:59)

Scott Bradford with the May Group at RE/MAX Grand Rapids is back with another episode of Living in Grand Rapids, this time exploring the West Grand neighborhood in Northwest Grand Rapids, Michigan.

What Makes West Grand Unique

West Grand is a diverse, vibrant neighborhood known for its electric mix of residential areas, local businesses, and cultural attractions. It's home to families, young professionals, and artists, all drawn to the tree-lined streets, community gardens, and neighborhood parks that give the area its welcoming, green feel.

Where Is West Grand Located?

West Grand is a large neighborhood bordered by the Grand River to the east, Bridge Street to the south, Valley Avenue, Walker Avenue, and Bristol Avenue to the west, and Dunlap Street and Nason Street to the north.

West Grand Real Estate

Out of nearly 7,000 households in West Grand, about 51% of residents are renters. Active single-family home listings currently range from $160,000 to $325,000, while multi-unit listings range from $225,000 to $415,000. Overall, West Grand remains a reasonable and accessible area to purchase a home in the city of Grand Rapids.

Community & Events

West Grand hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year. One highlight this summer is Storytime at Lincoln Park, held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:00 PM with stories, free books, ice cream, and special guests for kids and teens of all ages. It's a partnership between Read GR, Grand Valley State University, John Ball Area Neighborhoods, the West Grand Neighborhood Organization, and the City of Grand Rapids Office of Special Events. Check the West Grand Neighborhood Association's website for additional events throughout the year.

Food & Local Businesses

Along Bridge Street and Leonard Street, you'll find some of West Grand's best food and drink spots, including Blue Dog Tavern (a dog-friendly patio favorite), New Holland Brewery, Condado Tacos, The Holiday Bar, and Salvatore's Italian Restaurant.

West Grand is a lively, welcoming neighborhood with a mix of housing options, local amenities, and community events for residents to enjoy. If you're considering a move to Grand Rapids, this is a neighborhood worth exploring.

LET'S CONNECT

📍 See homes for sale in West Grand: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/west-grand/ 

Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide 

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com 

Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors

👍 If you enjoyed this video, hit subscribe for more Living in Grand Rapids episodes!

#GrandRapidsRealEstate #WestMichiganRealEstate #GrandRapids

Curious if Grand Haven, Michigan is as good as everyone says? In this video, we're taking you through one of West Michigan's most beloved lakeshore towns, from the beach and downtown to the food scene, schools, and the events that keep people coming back year after year.

⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS

Introduction (0:00)Grand Haven Beach & Lighthouse (0:30)Downtown Grand Haven & Washington Avenue (0:50)Outdoor Activities & Trails (1:13)Local Food Scene (1:32)Is Grand Haven Good for Families? (1:50)Grand Haven Musical Fountain (2:10)Festivals & Seasonal Events (2:30)Final Thoughts (2:40)

Grand Haven, Michigan is one of West Michigan's most popular lakeshore communities, and it's easy to see why. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, charming downtown, family-friendly atmosphere, and year-round outdoor fun, which makes it a favorite for both summer visitors and people looking to relocate to the area.

Grand Haven BeachOne of the biggest draws is the beach. Grand Haven State Park features wide sandy shores, unforgettable Lake Michigan sunsets, and the iconic Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier, one of the most photographed landmarks in the state. Whether you're swimming, relaxing in the sun, or taking a sunset walk along the pier, the waterfront is the heart of this town.

Downtown Grand HavenDowntown is packed with locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, coffee houses, ice cream parlors, and waterfront restaurants. Washington Avenue is the main street and the perfect spot for an afternoon of shopping and dining, especially during the warmer months when outdoor events and live music fill downtown.

Things to Do in Grand HavenOutdoor lovers have plenty to explore too, including miles of biking and walking trails like the Lake Shore Trail, plus boating, fishing, and kayaking on Lake Michigan and the Grand River. Pair that with local favorites like Pronto Pup or a sunset dinner at Noto's at the Bil-Mar, and you've got a town built for making memories.

Is Grand Haven Good for Families?Families are drawn to Grand Haven for its welcoming community, highly rated schools, parks, and year-round activities, including the Grand Haven Musical Fountain, one of the largest musical fountains in the world. Add in festivals like the Coast Guard Festival, farmers' markets, and art fairs, and it's clear why this community has such a strong sense of togetherness.

If you're thinking about visiting, moving to, or buying a home in Grand Haven, this video will give you a real feel for what life here is actually like.

Want to learn more about Grand Haven real estate or West Michigan living?

📍 Read about Grand Haven, MI, and browse homes for sale in Grand Haven: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/grand-haven/
📱 Contact May Group Realtors:

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com 

Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide 

Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors

#GrandHavenMichigan #WestMichiganRealEstate #GrandRapidsRealEstate

What should you prioritize when buying a house? Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors breaks down the most common home buyer questions and the answers that actually make a difference.

In this video, Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids answers the most common questions she gets from home buyers: what to prioritize when buying a house, why pre-approval matters before you start shopping, how to understand closing costs, the difference between needs vs. wants, what the hardest part of buying a home really is, and exactly what to do (and not do) during showings. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or returning to the market, this is a practical guide to navigating the process with confidence.

Who is this video for?

This is especially helpful for first-time home buyers, anyone who’s felt overwhelmed by the process, or buyers who want to go in prepared.

Video Chapters

0:00 — Introduction

0:25 — What to prioritize when buying a house

0:53 — Get pre-approved before you start shopping

1:25 — Learn the purchase process upfront

1:50 — Understanding closing costs

2:30 — Needs vs. wants: making your list

2:58 — The hardest part of buying a home

3:33 — What to do (and not do) at showings

4:21 — Final advice & next steps

If you’re thinking about buying a home and have questions, reach out. Our team would love to help guide you through the process.

📱 Contact May Group Realtors:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://marketgrandrapids.com

Download our Free Relocation Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/relocation-guide

Instagram: @MayGroupRealtors

#buyingahouse #homebuyertips #firsttimehomebuyer #grandrapidsrealestate #realestate #homebuying101 #realestatetips #househunting #westmichiganrealestate #remax

Thinking about moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan? Before you load up the moving truck, there are a few things nobody tells you until it's too late. Ross Bacon with May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids shares the honest picture of what life in Grand Rapids is actually like — and what to expect before you make the move.

⏱️ VIDEO CHAPTERS

Introduction (0:00)

Michigan Is a Title State (0:22)

Grand Rapids Traffic (1:27)

Getting In and Out — GRR Airport (3:01)

Rethinking Your Commute Math (4:33)

Closing Thoughts (6:34)

What No One Tells You About Moving to Grand Rapids

Moving to Grand Rapids is one of the best decisions you can make — but there are a few things that trip up almost every newcomer, and knowing them ahead of time makes all the difference.

Michigan Is a Title State

If you're relocating from an attorney state like Georgia, New York, Massachusetts, or South Carolina, you're used to having a lawyer at the closing table. Michigan works differently. Here, a licensed title company handles your closing — no attorney required. The process is smooth and efficient, but it will feel different than what you're used to. Lean on your real estate agent and get comfortable with your title company early.

Grand Rapids Traffic Is Not What You Think

Coming from Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, or any major metro? You're about to experience something genuinely surprising. Grand Rapids runs on a sensible grid system, highway access actually works, and the entire metro area is compact enough to cross in 20 to 25 minutes on a normal day. Locals will warn you about the 28th Street corridor on a Saturday. They mean well.

Rethink Your Commute Math

This is the one that catches almost every out-of-towner off guard during the home search. In a big metro, 30 to 40 minutes from work lands you in a nice suburb. In Grand Rapids, 30 to 45 minutes from downtown could put you in a completely different county. Think in miles, not minutes. A 10- to 20-minute commute here still gives you access to a huge portion of the metro — and that range can get you a four-bedroom home with a backyard on a quiet street, something that simply does not exist at that price point in most American cities.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)

GRR is Michigan's second busiest airport, handling more than four million passengers a year with nonstop service to over 30 destinations. It is also in the middle of a major transformation — Project Elevate, a $500 million+ investment that includes a newly expanded Concourse A and a $135 million terminal enhancement project. GRR is the first small-hub airport in the United States to implement a consolidated baggage inspection system. You are not driving to Detroit to catch a flight.

Grand Rapids is growing fast. And now you get to grow with it.

🏡 Ready to start your home search in the Grand Rapids area?

Search homes for sale: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/grand-rapids-home-search/

Download our Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide

Contact us now:

Call or Text: (616) 330-2555

Email: [email protected]

More from Group Realtors:

Website 🌐: http://marketgrandrapids.com

Instagram 📸: / maygroupgr

Thinking about selling your home? Here are 5 proven tips to get your home ready to sell — and you can start before you even meet with a Realtor.What This Video CoversIn this video, Josh May of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids walks you through 5 actionable steps every home seller should take before listing. From decluttering and depersonalizing your space to detailed touch-ups, deep cleaning, and knowing when to bring in a professional — these strategies help your home appeal to more buyers and sell for more money. No major renovations required.Who This Is ForThis is for homeowners thinking about selling in the next 6 to 12 months who want to get ahead of the process and avoid last-minute stress. Whether this is your first time selling or your fifth, these tips work in any market.Timestamps0:00 — Introduction0:21 — Tip 1: Declutter your home1:04 — Tip 2: Depersonalize your space1:37 — Tip 3: Detailed improvements2:16 — Tip 4: Deep clean2:49 — Tip 5: De-stress with a professionalIf you found this helpful, hit subscribe — I post new real estate tips every week. Ready to talk about selling your home? We'd love to help. Book a free consultation using the link below, and let’s get your home ready for the market.SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1 Contact us now:Call or Text: (616) 330-2555Email: [email protected]More from Group Realtors:Website 🌐: http://marketgrandrapids.comInstagram 📸: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/#homesellingtips #realestate #sellmyhome #grandrapidsrealestate #housetips The information in this video is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional real estate advice. Results may vary based on local market conditions. Always consult a licensed real estate professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Grand Rapids gets all the attention, but the best places to live in West Michigan might actually be just outside of it. In this video, Josh May with RE/MAX of Grand Rapids breaks down 4 hidden gem communities within 45 minutes of Grand Rapids that more people should be talking about.

*VIDEO CHAPTERS*

Introduction (0:00) 

Rockford, Michigan (1:06) 

Saugatuck, Michigan (2:22) 

Greenville, Michigan (3:21) 

Ada, Michigan (4:24) 

Big Takeaway (5:25)

*Michigan’s Hidden Gems: Cool Cities Beyond Grand Rapids*

When people start researching a move to West Michigan, Grand Rapids is almost always the starting point. It makes sense. It is the second-largest city in Michigan and has a lot going for it. But what a lot of people discover after digging a little deeper is that some of the most desirable places to live in the entire region are the smaller communities just outside of it.

In this video, we highlight four communities that consistently surprise people with how much they offer.

*Rockford, Michigan* sits about 15 to 20 minutes north of Grand Rapids and has one of the most authentic small-town feels in all of West Michigan. The entire downtown is built around the Rogue River, making it walkable, connected, and genuinely enjoyable to spend time in. Local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and the Riverwalk trail system make Rockford the kind of place where people actually live in their community. It also has strong schools and a good mix of home styles and price points.

*Saugatuck, Michigan* is a completely different experience, and that is exactly the point. Located about 40 minutes west along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Saugatuck is defined by its coastal feel, vibrant art scene, and the kind of lifestyle that makes it feel like a permanent vacation. Oval Beach is one of the best beaches in the state, and the downtown is filled with galleries, shops, and waterfront character. For buyers who put lifestyle above everything else, Saugatuck is worth serious consideration.

*Greenville, Michigan* is about 30 minutes northeast of Grand Rapids and has become a go-to for buyers who want more home for their money. Larger lots, more square footage, and lower price points make Greenville attractive to people who are feeling priced out of closer-in communities. Beyond the value story, Greenville has a growing downtown, riverfront parks along the Flat River, and a strong local community that keeps people rooted there long-term.

*Ada, Michigan* has transformed significantly over the past several years into one of the most sought-after areas in West Michigan. The village has been redeveloped with intention, featuring a walkable downtown anchored by the Ada Hotel, alongside luxury homes, private wooded settings, and gathering spaces that feel high-end without being cold. Ada sits just minutes from Grand Rapids, making it the ideal option for someone who wants privacy, upscale living, and easy access to the city all at once.

Whether you are drawn to Rockford's river town walkability, Saugatuck's lakefront lifestyle, Greenville's space and affordability, or Ada's luxury and community, there is a version of West Michigan built for how you want to live. You do not have to be in Grand Rapids to have an incredible life here.

📍 Thinking about making a move to West Michigan? We would love to help you figure out which community is the right fit. Start by grabbing our free Relocation Guide: https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1 

Contact us now:

Call or Text: (616) 330-2555

Email: [email protected]

More from Group Realtors:

Website 🌐: http://marketgrandrapids.com

Instagram 📸: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/

#WestMichiganRealEstate #MovingToMichigan #GrandRapidsRealEstate

Thinking about visiting John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan? In this video, we’re covering everything families need to know before they go — from the best exhibits and ticket prices to tips for visiting with young kids. John Ball Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, and it keeps getting better every year.

⏱️ VIDEO CHAPTERS

Introduction & Zoo Overview (0:00)

New Exhibits & What's Coming (1:03)

Is It Worth Visiting? (1:26)

Animals & Exhibits Walkthrough (1:44)

Tickets, Pricing & Membership (2:55)

Zoo Events Throughout the Year (3:13)

Tips for Visiting With Kids (3:46)

About the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids

John Ball Zoo was founded in 1891, making it one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Located right in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, the zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 200 species, with a strong mission rooted in conservation and education.

What's New at the Zoo in 2026

2026 marks the zoo's 135th year in Grand Rapids, and there is a lot to look forward to. A brand-new 3,500-square-foot river otter habitat is opening around Memorial Day weekend. The Pygmy Hippo Pavilion, added in 2024, has already become one of the most popular spots on the grounds. And looking further ahead, giraffes are expected to arrive around 2028.

Exhibits & Animals

The zoo has something for every type of visitor. Highlights include the chimpanzee exhibit with a spacious indoor viewing area, tigers, lions, and bears, the enclosed reptile house, camel rides, and a hands-on hobby farm where kids can interact with animals up close.

Tickets & Pricing

General admission runs $15 to $25 per person. Children three and under are free. If you plan to visit more than once, a membership is absolutely worth considering.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early fall offer the most comfortable weather, and animals tend to be most active in the morning hours. Fall is especially great for families thanks to the annual Zoo Goes Boo event in October, where kids can trick-or-treat through the zoo in costume with live entertainment.

Tips for Visiting With Kids

Plan for about two hours. Arrive early when animals are most active. Wear comfortable shoes because there is real walking and some hills. Pack snacks and build in breaks. The dedicated kids' play zone is a great mid-visit reset, and the hobby farm is a favorite for younger children.

Read the Full Grand Rapids Zoo Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/blog/grand-rapids-zoo-guide

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1 

Contact us now:

Call or Text: (616) 330-2555

Email: [email protected]

Moving to Grand Rapids? Pick up our FREE relocation guide!

https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide

More from Group Realtors:

Website 🌐: http://marketgrandrapids.com

Instagram 📸: https://www.instagram.com/maygroupgr/

#GrandRapids #GrandRapidsZoo #JohnBallZoo

Downtown Grand Rapids is packed with incredible restaurants, and today, we are breaking down the best spots you need to try. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or thinking about making Grand Rapids home, this guide covers everything from upscale date-night dining to the best casual bites, all walkable from the heart of the city.

Introduction (0:00)

The Downtown Skywalk (0:21)

Downtown Staples (0:44)

Final Thoughts (2:11)

*The Best Places to Eat in Downtown Grand Rapids*

If you are planning a trip to Grand Rapids or considering a move to the city, the downtown restaurant scene is one of the first things you need to know about. The area is incredibly walkable, and the concentration of great restaurants makes it one of the most enjoyable neighborhoods in West Michigan to explore on foot.

*Getting Around: The Downtown Skywalk*

If you are staying at the Amway Grand Plaza, JW Marriott, or Courtyard Marriott, you are connected to the downtown Skywalk, a climate-controlled walkway running from Van Andel Arena to DeVos Hall. It is a game-changer in the winter months and puts you within easy reach of several restaurants featured in this video.

This video is just a starting point. The downtown Grand Rapids restaurant scene has more depth than most cities of its size, and it keeps growing. If the lifestyle here appeals to you, the downtown condo market puts all of this right at your doorstep.

Read the Full Downtown Grand Rapids Restaurant Guide: https://marketgrandrapids.com/blog/places-to-eat-downtown-grand-rapids/

Browse Downtown Grand Rapids Condos for Sale: https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/lifestyles/downtown-grand-rapids-condos/

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1

Contact us now:

Call or Text: (616) 330-2555

Email: [email protected]

Moving to Grand Rapids? Pick up our FREE relocation guide!

https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide

More from Group Realtors:

Website 🌐: http://marketgrandrapids.com

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#GrandRapidsRealEstate #GrandRapids #westmichigan

If you are thinking about moving to West Michigan and researching Grand Rapids suburbs, there is a good chance Allendale, MI, has already shown up in your search. And for good reason. This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Allendale so you can decide if it might be the right fit for your next move.

⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS

Introduction (0:00)

Location (0:34)

Allendale Housing & Real Estate (1:34)

Allendale Schools (2:17)

Is Allendale a Good Place to Live? (2:38)

Summary (3:30)

Allendale offers a combination of newer housing, strong schools, a convenient commute, and easy access to both Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan that is hard to find anywhere else in the region.

So, if you’re wondering if Allendale is a good place to live, the short answer is yes, especially if you are looking for that comfortable suburban feel without giving up access to city amenities. One of the things people mention most often after choosing Allendale is how it feels a little quieter than some of the other Grand Rapids suburbs, while still being incredibly convenient to everything you need.

Overall, Allendale offers a quality of life that appeals to a wide range of people. It checks a lot of boxes: newer homes, a tight-knit community feel, excellent outdoor recreation, and a location that puts you within reach of both the city and the lakeshore.

To explore Allendale in greater detail, check out this full guide:

Living in Allendale, MI: A Guide to One of Grand Rapids' Best Suburbs - https://marketgrandrapids.com/blog/living-in-allendale-mi/

View homes for sale in Allendale, Michigan https://marketgrandrapids.com/buy/communities/allendale/

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLKp_rEg77NKMFthOTVeiw?sub_confirmation=1

Contact us now:

Call or Text: (616) 330-2555

Email: [email protected]

Moving to Allendale? Pick up our FREE relocation guide!

https://mailchi.mp/8b5aff1055a5/relocation-guide

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#Allendale

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