Medendorp Real Estate Group

10/24/2026

What if your first home isn't a house at all?

If you've been struggling to find a traditional single-family home that fits your budget, don't overlook condos.

According to Zillow, the typical starter condo costs under $200k nationally. Part of the reason they can be more affordable than a single-family home is because they’re normally smaller.

Sure, you may trade some square footage or a backyard for shared walls and an HOA fee. But you could also get a lower purchase price, great amenities, and less maintenance to handle yourself.

And if that means getting your own set of keys sooner, it could be an option worth exploring.

Your first home doesn't have to check every box you originally imagined. It just needs to be the right fit for your life and your budget right now.

Let's look at what's available in our area and see if a condo could be your way into homeownership.

10/21/2026

Listing 26051804's price changed from $89,900 to $79,900

MLS #: 26051804. Welcome to 1570 N Peterson, set on 3 acres in Laketon Township. This property offers four bedrooms, one bath, natural gas, and an updated electrical service. The property needs a new roof, giving the next owner an opportunity to make improvements to suit their plans. Bring your idea...

10/18/2026

10/18/2026

You can beat Lakeside. Thank you Damon and all in one events for your help.

10/17/2026

Same time of year. 2 very different stories. And mortgage rates are a big reason why.

Last fall, mortgage rates came down and the number of homes for sale barely budged. This fall, rates have climbed above 7%. Some buyers have pulled back, homes are taking longer to sell, and instead of coming off the market, more listings are sticking around.

Since August, the number of homes for sale has grown by about 25,000. So, what does that mean for you?

Buying? You’ve got more homes to choose from and potentially more room to negotiate on price, repairs, or closing costs.
Selling? Buyers have more options, so you’ve got to give them a reason to choose your house. That means getting the price right from day one and making sure your house stands out from the competition.

Want to know what this shift looks like where you live? Drop a comment or send me a DM, and let’s look at the local numbers together.

10/13/2026

You can’t beat Lakeside District Association! 🍂📸

So many smiles and familiar faces at the Lakeside Fall Festival in Lakeside, Muskegon! Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Medendorp Real Estate Group photo booth and helped make the day special.

We love living, working, and celebrating right here in our community. Spot yourself or someone you know? Tag them below! 🧡

Thank you to Damon Williams with On One Events for providing the photobooth and fun consumes for the photos!

Link to access photos https://fotoshare.co/e/KXiNXbM5uir5lVy7BSa3u

10/10/2026

Feeling like buying your first place is still years away? Here’s how to shortcut it.

While data shows saving up and reaching the break even point where owning costs about the same as renting usually takes around 15 years, there are ways to get there faster.

If you set your sights on a starter home, it’s actually closer to seven years. That cuts the time in half. You’re looking at 4.6 years to save and 2.6 to break even.

But keep in mind, those numbers assume you put 20% down. Most first-time buyers put down far less, so that saving timeframe can shrink even more.

DM me, and I'll share a few ways to reach your first home sooner – like talking to a lender about down payment assistance programs.

Since you’ve probably already been saving for a while, you may be closer than you realize.

10/09/2026

🏡 OPEN HOUSE TODAY! 🏡

Come check out 1702 Leif Avenue in Muskegon tonight from 4–6 PM! 👋

Stop by, take a look around, and see if this could be your next home! 🏠✨

📍 1702 Leif Avenue, Muskegon, MI
🕓 Today | 4–6 PM

🔑 Hosted by Eric Ratkiewicz, Realtor
📱 231-300-9856

🔗 Check out the listing: https://www.flexmls.com/share/EiGhl/1702-Leif-Avenue,-Muskegon,-MI-49441

Hope to see you there!

10/09/2026

Listing 26051804's price changed from $99,900 to $89,900

MLS #: 26051804. Welcome to 1570 N Peterson, set on 3 acres in Laketon Township. This property offers four bedrooms, one bath, natural gas, and an updated electrical service. The property needs a new roof, giving the next owner an opportunity to make improvements to suit their plans. Bring your idea...

10/07/2026

Listing 26041284's price changed from $275,000 to $250,000

MLS #: 26041284. Welcome to 14525 Lakeshore Drive! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home sits on just over half an acre in Grand Haven Township, offering privacy while remaining close to Grand Haven's shopping, dining, beaches, and city amenities. This home offers a great opportunity for someone ready to ma...