Second Home Investment-Western Michigan (Dearborn, Holland: condos, homes, university)

[Buddykatt]

My husband and I are planning to invest in a second home in Western Michigan within the next year. We currently live in PA. He's retired; I teach in a university and have summers and other long breaks free. We don't want to cut ties in PA as one son lives here, but all of my family still live in Michigan, where I grew up (Dearborn).

We are looking to purchase a second home in the Holland-Grand Haven area--we love the water (would love to be able to walk to a lake, if not living on it). What are the pros/cons of each city, in your estimation, with an eye to investing in a second home? We are not "nightlife" people, but do love the shops, the arts, and nature.

[OhioBound?]

In my opinion, GH has more of a nightlife and attraction for retirees and young people. It is a busy town with lots of beauty. Holland is also beautiful, but it is quieter and more family oriented. Hope College may also have an appeal for you since you teach at a university. There are more cultural opportunities in Holland. If you are not Christian Reform, you may want to know about the religion's beliefs. Homes are affordable in GH, but I don't know about Holland.

[suydam]

If you're not on the water, I think Grand Haven would be a better fit. They are putting up some great condos in the city, and there are blocks of homes within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the downtown...so you can walk to dinner and the beach.

The City of Holland is a little further off the water and the water within walking distance of the downtown is Lake Macatawa marina-space, not beach. That said, Holland's downtown is growing (quickly) and bigger than Grand Haven. They are doing some great things in Holland.

You cannot go wrong either way. Great communities, great beaches, you'll love it.

[magellan]

Originally Posted by suydam

If you're not on the water, I think Grand Haven would be a better fit. They are putting up some great condos in the city, and there are blocks of homes within walking distance of Lake Michigan and the downtown...so you can walk to dinner and the beach.

The City of Holland is a little further off the water and the water within walking distance of the downtown is Lake Macatawa marina-space, not beach. That said, Holland's downtown is growing (quickly) and bigger than Grand Haven. They are doing some great things in Holland.

You cannot go wrong either way. Great communities, great beaches, you'll love it.

You're definitely right. They're also adding a lot of great condos and new cottages near the State Park in Holland. I love that area.