[windfarmer]

As a period-architecture fanatic, I'm overawed at the solid architectural gems that grace these streets.

My questions are these:

1) How many homes are typically for sale at one time in these neighborhoods?

2) How long do they usually stay on the market? Am I wrong to assume that these fine properties would not be on the market for more than three months or so?

3) Are any of these homes single family or are they all subdivided into apartment-rentals?

On a side note: while I realize the profit to be made in renting out individual units to college students, it seems to take away from the original glory of these homes.. Surely the historic committee has words to say about the homes being converted into apartments, no? No offense to any landlords who practice this, I'm simply asking from the point of one who appreciates this type of grand architecture.

[magellan]

Originally Posted by windfarmer

As a period-architecture fanatic, I'm overawed at the solid architectural gems that grace these streets.

My questions are these:

1) How many homes are typically for sale at one time in these neighborhoods?

2) How long do they usually stay on the market? Am I wrong to assume that these fine properties would not be on the market for more than three months or so?

3) Are any of these homes single family or are they all subdivided into apartment-rentals?

On a side note: while I realize the profit to be made in renting out individual units to college students, it seems to take away from the original glory of these homes.. Surely the historic committee has words to say about the homes being converted into apartments, no? No offense to any landlords who practice this, I'm simply asking from the point of one who appreciates this type of grand architecture.

I think, but could be mistaken, that the city of GR does not allow single family homes to be split into multi-units anymore. You might check with the Planning Commission/Zoning Board to be sure.

City of Grand Rapids - City Home - W5

In Heritage Hill, I'd say it's probably a 50/50 mix of homes that were split at one time and those that have stayed true to their original single-family layouts. I've heard of multi-units being converted back to single-family and some very odd things found behind the walls, like fireplaces, alcoves, hidden wine cellars, etc..

In case you didn't know windfarmer, Heritage Hill is one of the largest residential historic district in the country, with over 1300 protected homes. It came very close to being almost completely demolished in the 60's to expand the downtown business district up onto the hill. They have a tour of homes that's a must see.

If you want to learn more (like the real estate questions you have), I'd give these guys a shout:

Heritage Hill Neighborhood Association, Grand Rapids, Michigan

[windfarmer]

Thanks Magellan, Heritage Hill reminds me of the kind of neighborhood with homes that might be featured on the HGTV show If Walls Could Talk. So many architectural treasures, so little time.. believe me it is enough enjoyment just strolling through these streets.

Wow! It's a shame anyone would dare "think" of demolishing these homes! Glad people came around and saved them.