Some Retailers Still See Opportunity in West Michigan

Michigan's economic struggles always seem to be in the forefront of the media and on people's minds. And rightly so, all business sectors have struggled and many people have had to make moves that would be right for their family. Interestingly enough, as others have moved out of state, Johnny's Lunch has decided to Move Into Michigan. Can you believe it?

Johnny's Lunch sees Michigan and Grand Rapids in particular as an opportunity. Johnny's Lunch is a Ohio franchise with quick-serve hotdogs and burgers with "extremely low" prices (Beeke). Johnny's Lunch is a 72 year old company with national expansion plans with Livonia, Michigan being their first stop. Closer to home in Downtown Grand Rapids in the Monroe Center is our first Johnny's Lunch. Three more franchises are planned to open up in other areas of Grand Rapids as well.

Why did Johnny's Lunch decide to come to Michigan when others have been leaving? Here's what the president George Goulson had to say, "We knew all that stuff going in. We also knew in Michigan there's a lot of opportunity to get in on the ground floor." (Beeke).

HMMMM!

Aren't Enterpreneurs looking for the ground floor opportunities? Noodles & Co. franchises have also benefited from the low cost products as people may be trading down from the upscale restaurants to more "casual dining". Did you know, that the Michigan market for Noodles & Co. has outpaced any of their other markets? Interesting.

Good things are happening in Michigan and in Grand Rapids. It depends on how you want to look at the cup... is it half full or half empty? Johnny's Lunch believes its over half full!

References: Beeke, Candace. "Retailers debate coming to Michigan." Business Review Western Michigan. May 15-21, 2008.

As Gas Prices Rise, More People Are Conscience of Saving Money

The weather used to be the common conversation. Nowadays, our conversations focus around the high gas prices at the pump. You'll listen to the talk radio as they discuss the oil prices per barrel and then how it affects us, the consumer. The other day, I heard talk on the radio about how bike sales were now on the rise. Maybe, with the higher gas prices we' ll have a now physically fit America? OR we could do a lot of complaining about the prices, start walking more, buy better high efficiency cars or suck it up and deal with whatever gas prices may come our way. It's a choice!

When you build a new home, you also have a choice. You can choose to build with wood OR you may want to consider another method. Let's face it ~ with the high heating and cooling costs and overall increased costs in many areas, we may have to start thinking about the future and how we can control some of these issues and actually save money. Now that is a remarkable thought!!!

What I'm talking about is ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) construction. Does the thought of concrete walls make you think of a bomb shelter? Honestly, it did for me. Why else would you use concrete for walls? It just seemed odd.

However, with knowledge of the product and the benefits it provides, it really just makes sense. Here's what you need to know about this type of construction. Those who have researched this product, swear by it and realize the benefits immediately. Let me explain.

1. Most important to you... High heating and cooling costs should make you seriously consider ICF's that can reduce energy costs by 80%.


2. They provide a healthier indoor air quality due to the lack of air infiltration through the solid concrete walls. This is HUGE, just ask anyone with bronchial or health issues.


3. Obviously, concrete walls are very durable. The insurance industry is starting to pressure government into creating homes that are more durable. (ICF Builder)


4. Noise reduction is a noted benefit in areas with high traffic. A very quiet setting.


5. Finally, concrete is the best solution when it comes to withstanding and surviving extreme weather. Now, I know that Michigan is not prone to hurricanes, but did you know that just recently we did have an earthquake nearby. I thought that only happened in California?


6. Homeowners who live in ICF homes, are adamant that this is what they want. (ICF Builder) That statement in itself should hold a lot of weight for those considering ICF construction.

If you are considering a brand new home construction project, you really need to consider the bottom line. One of the common misconceptions is that this type of construction is for the elite and is very expensive. It really is quite affordable.

My next home that I build will have ICF construction because I understand the long term benefits specifically for me as it relates to energy efficiency and indoor air quality. A great energy efficient home located in the great area of Canadian Lakes across from Tullymore Golf Course (the third largest golf course in the COUNTRY!!!), is priced fantastic and has all these benefits plus radiant and geothermal heat. It's only $179,900.00, which is a steal for the area amenities and the benefits it has. I would seriously consider this home myself except I want to stay a little closer to home which is Grand Rapids.

Perfect for anyone considering a healthy home or wanting to be within walking distance to the Lakes and Tullymore Golf Course! Open May 18th from 2-4 pm!

You've Heard of Viral Marketing but Have You Heard of a Viral Community

In a shortened condensed version, or more aptly put, my version of viral marketing is what every business owner yearns for. Its where you do a great job for someone and they tell 10 people who tell 10 people, who tell 10 people. O.K. maybe not 10 people each time, but you get the jist. Your reputation for business explodes because of this great reputation you have built by good ole' word of mouth advertising.

So, that's viral marketing. ...

What I've noticed is that our great place of Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan is a great viral community. I'm amazed at how many people know everyone else, know the best places to hang out and have their own little sense of community within the much larger community of downtown Grand Rapids. People are usually very friendly and courteous and obviously love the attributes of Downtown Grand Rapids with its walkable access ways to some of the best restaurants and hangouts in town. To the beautiful parks, bridges and scenic views of the downtown skyline over the river. To just being the hub of Grand Rapids and the place to be. Downtown Grand Rapids is still small enough to feel like a community, yet is getting the draw of the life of a big city. Personally, I appreciate it because it isn't as big as some of the other big cities such as Chicago and it's still a lot of fun to be apart of.

Downtown Grand Rapids is it's own viral community in that it's its own community... if that makes sense. It tends to draw the younger singles and also the babyboomers. Other people love just to be apart of the action ~ which lends itself to a really good mix of people.

Now, because I'm in real estate, I wouldn't be doing downtown Grand Rapids any justice if I didn't mention the condos in downtown Grand Rapids and of course, Union Square where I have a couple of listings. I have other ones coming up in the area and are very familiar with the condo projects in the area, so if you are looking in the near future for a condo and want to be apart of this fantastic viral community, you can contact me at anytime at tstone@grar.com