End-of-the-year dog swim

Those of you who know me know that I love to have fun, I love dogs and I love all of the quirky activities that are available in Ann Arbor. The end-of-the-year dog swim at Buhr Pool satisfies all of these criteria! This is the first time that I joined in the fun. My son and I took our one year old golden retriever, Maggie, who had a blast! She was a bit hesitant at first, but there is nothing that can stop her from a tennis ball. By the end of the session she was diving willingly and gracefully. The pure joy of 30 dogs together with balls and water is beyond description. I will definitely make this an annual tradition!

One of my favorite local businesses

I like to support local businesses whenever I can. One of my favorites is Zingerman's Deli. It's so much more than a deli. In fact, I don't remember the last time I bought a sandwich there. Not that the sandwiches aren't divine...I often stop and get my morning latte or cappuccino. Try a little dulce de leche (Mexican caramel) in yours sometime! They also make fabulous breads and sell wonderful cheeses from all over the world. I grew up in Ann Arbor and yet I can't really remember a time that Zingerman's didn't exist. I can't for the life of me picture what was there before they opened. Kerrytown and the Farmer's Market are right across the street and I frequent those places often too (but that's a separate entry). Customer service is at the top of the priority list at Zingerman's, in addition to great food. I also like that they contribute to the community in so many different ways. The owners started a non-profit organization called Food Gatherers whose goal is to feed the hungry in Washtenaw County. Their annual fundraiser, called "Grillin'", is a lot of fun for a very worthy cause. We are fortunate in Ann Arbor to have so many wonderful local businesses!

Great news for Ann Arbor!

The AARP just published a study that they did about the healthiest cities for seniors. They used 20 measures of vitality. They looked at the physical aspects of the communities, as well as the health and habits of their residents and determined that Ann Arbor is the best U.S. city for seniors! There are also so many things to do in this town to keep people happy. I think it's a great city for people of all ages, and I appreciate the nod of recognition from AARP. Here's the link to the article if you'd like to read more.

http://www.aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/healthiest_hometowns.html

Townie Party

One of the things that I love about Ann Arbor is that there are always plenty of things to do. Actually, in the summer, it seems there are TOO MANY things to do! I sometimes lament that I don't have more time to spend on my deck, relaxing, in the summer...but it's because there are so many events that are irresistible. Last night was the annual "Townie Party", which is scheduled the Monday before the Art Fair begins. It's sort of a last hurrah before we are deluged with out-of-towners. A stage is set up on a downtown street and several bands played for us. It was a beautiful evening to hang out on a blanket and listen to music. There were also many ways for children to be entertained. My son began by collecting all of the free stuff. Two frisbees were among the goodies, so we proceeded to play frisbee in front of Hill Auditorium. There were also arts and crafts choices, and of course, balloons. Now the artists are busy getting their booths set up for opening day tomorrow. If you are an Annarborite, most likely you either love or hate Art Fair. We often hear "It's not art, and it's not fair!" I am in the love it camp. It's always exciting to see people rolling in and to check out the art (and people!). The thermometer inevitably climbs to 90 degrees or more for the 4 days of the fair and thunderstorms make it all the more thrilling. I hope to see you all there!

Market Statistics

The Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors recently released the market stats for June. The good news for sellers is that the number of listings are down 28% from this time last year. The good news for buyers is that home and condo prices are now as low as they were in 2000. So, it is still an excellent time to buy a home! Interest rates have gone up slightly in recent weeks. but they are still very good. If you have been waiting for the "perfect" time to buy, I would have to say that you should not wait any longer! We continue to see some serious competition for certain listings, with multiple offers above list price, but even in those situations buyers are getting good deals. If you haven't yet, choose a realtor who is an expert in the area in which you'd like to buy and get started. Contact me today for a consultation!

Urbal fowl

So, you've always wanted chickens, but you want to live close enough to walk or ride your bike to work? Now you can have both! Ann Arbor City Council passed a resolution on Monday night which allows A2 residents to keep up to four hens in the city. This is what I love about Ann Arbor! We're down to earth, and a little bit goofy, but usually trying to do the right thing. I'm sure that there are many people excited at the thought of having fresh eggs every morning. Me? I'm holding out for an alpaca.

Spring market is here!

Whew! I've been meaning to find some time to blog, but things have been absolutely NUTS around here. In a good way! Don't let anyone tell you that the real estate market is bad here in Ann Arbor! For the first time in a long time we are occasionally seeing multiple offer situations and homes are coming under contract when a client is pondering whether to make an offer. So, when you find a home you like, don't assume that you have forever to consider it. Make an offer! It is still a buyer's market, for sure, but it is certainly improving for sellers. We have definitely hit bottom and are inching our way up. If you are considering selling your home, don't put it off. I have clients who are ready and willing to buy, but can't find the right home. Maybe yours is the one!