May 2013 Ann Arbor Real Estate Statistics

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on June 13, 2013

May 2013 real estate sales statistics have been posted by the the Ann Arbor Area Board of REALTORS®.

The average sales price was $246,305, an increase of 20% over last year.
New listings are up 16% over the previous month and 7% over last year.
The average days on the market has decreased from 71 days to 39 days.

The market is on the upswing and now is a great time to sell your Ann Arbor area home! If you are thinking of selling or buying a home in the Ann Arbor area we’d love to hear from you. Please contact us today with any questions you may have or to get started! We look forward to hearing from you!

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Ann Arbor Ranked as One of the Most Well-Read Cities

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on June 10, 2013

Ann Arbor ranks on top of many “Best City” lists, but recently Ann Arbor has another benchmark they can check off: 6th Most Well-Read City in the United States. Compiled by Amazon.com, Ann Arbor has shown its position as a city that loves to read – including books, e-books, magazines, and newspapers. Beating out cities like Berkeley, California and Seattle, Washington, Ann Arbor is letting the nation know we are interested in everything fiction and non-fiction.

How Did We Make The List?

Amazon.com’s list is created annually after they thoroughly analyzed the sales of print and Kindle-format materials on a per-capita basis in cities of more than 100,000 as of June 1, 2012. The list is proof that the country is reading, according to Sara Nelson from Amazon’s Editorial Department. But the more interesting question is what book is Ann Arbor’s favorite? That answer is “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn. It was the most purchased book in Ann Arbor as of this year.

Are Ann Arbor Residents Buying Books Locally or Online?

According to Nicola Rooney, owner of Nicola’s Books, the answer is yes and no. Though Amazon does consist of a majority of book sales, Rooney has noticed an increase of local business since the downtown Borders closed. Customers are looking for recommendations, local expertise, and the right atmosphere to find their books. With this in mind, people love visiting book shops, perusing a little bit, and maybe bringing a copy to a nearby coffee store. Reading is apparently on the top of Ann Arbor’s mind and is no doubt contributed by the University of Michigan’s student base.

Amazon’s Top 20 List

Alexandria, VA
Knoxville, Tenn.
Miami, FL
Cambridge, Mass.
Orlando, FL
Ann Arbor, MI
Berkeley, CA
Cincinnati, OH
Columbia, SC
Pittsburgh, PA
St. Louis, MO
Salt Lake City, UT
Seattle, WA
Vancouver, WA
Gainesville, FL
Atlanta, GA
Dayton, OH
Richmond, VA
Clearwater, FL
Tallahasee, FL

With this in mind, the better question is what book have you read recently? Feel free to share in the comments sections below!

Click Here to Explore Ann Arbor Real Estate

Dexter Wellness Center Open With Focus on Fun, Fitness, Exercise and Healthy Living

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on June 9, 2013

The Dexter Wellness Center is now Open and the focus is on Fun, Fitness, Exercise, and Healthy Living.

Kathy Toth and Builder, Architect Steve Brouwer — Kathy Toth with Builder-Architect Steve Brouwer

The Dexter Wellness Center is a beautiful state-of-the-art fitness facility offering something for everyone when it comes to your well-rounded health and fitness. Local Builder Architect, Steve Brouwer, Owner and President of A. R. Brouwer Company said that “We are very pleased to be a part of such an important community asset.” The project was completed on time and to raving reviews. The new facility incorporates into the 2-level plan a Basketball Court, Swimming and Therapy Pool, Fitness Studios and Track. View the floor plan here before you go.

Check out some of the following activities: Group Exercise; Aquatic Classes; Indoor Cycling; Yoga and Pilates; Personal Training; and even Massage Therapy. Maybe you prefer taking group classes. Take time to become a part of the Five Healthy Towns Project (5H). Dexter, Michigan is included in this forward thinking initiative. The goal is to create the healthiest 5 communities in the Midwest. They include Chelsea, Dexter, Grass Lake, Manchester and Stockbridge, Michigan. So let’s get moving. Read More about (5H).

All types of memberships are available at the Dexter Wellness Center, such as standard, corporate, family. If you have any questions at all you can call them at 734.580-2500, or ask your questions online. Get your start on fitness and make it a part of your everyday lifestyle. The Dexter Wellness Center is located at 2810 Baker Road in Dexter, MI.

Dexter, Michigan Boasts About Mindo Chocolate and How They Got Their Start From Scratch

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on June 2, 2013

We have many things to be proud of in our local community. Mindo Chocolate Makers in Dexter, Michigan is featured in this video and they explain why their chocolate tastes so good. Willy Wonka watch out because this chocolate is smooth and silky as you will see in this bean-to-bar chocolate video below. Learn more about how Mindo Chocolates got their start from Scratch.

Want to taste some of this magic? Check out the list of locations where you can buy Mindo Chocolates. I am sure Barbara Wilson, co-owner, will appreciate Michiganders buying locally. They are located at 11061 Trinkle Road, Dexter, MI 48130. Contact them by email at [email protected] or phone them at 734.660.5635; see their facebook photos.

The process can take time from beginning to end but well worth the excellent taste of Mindo Chocolate!

Come visit us at 3134 Baker Rd in Dexter . Stop by to talk about Dexter Real Estate with the Toth Team, Keller Williams Realty.

Ann Arbor Real Estate: What I Want For Summer!

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on May 29, 2013

Why wait until Christmas to get what you want for your home? The summer is the perfect time to make your dreams become reality — more specifically in the backyard and patio area. When the weather is this great in Ann Arbor, you don’t want to waste it indoors, sitting on the couch and watching television all day. You want to be outside, lounging about in a hammock or hosting fun backyard parties for friends and family. You can even celebrate your children’s birthday party with a small get-together outside. It’s the perfect space for children to run around and play together, so it’s important that you get what you want and turn your backyard into a paradise waiting to be enjoyed.

Here’s some ideas to get your Summer list started:

The Relaxing Backyard

Ann Arbor Relaxing Backyard — by Smith & Vansant Architects PC

If what you want for summer is a relaxing backyard, set your yard up like a lounge area. Tie the hammock to some trees, line up some chairs, and maybe introduce the backyard to an outdoor table to enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs outside. With the calls and beauty of nature all around you, relaxing should be a breeze.

The Entertainment Backyard

Ann Arbor Entertainment Backyard — by Colorworks Studio

If you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse to put a big screen television outside, this is it. Serving as the perfect entertainment venue for sports games, friends and family can relax outside, enjoy the warmth of the firepit, and not miss a single second of the game. Turn the regular sports party into something memorable and make all your neighbors jealous!

The Chef’s Backyard

Ann Arbor Chefs Backyard — by Holloway Company Inc.

Everyone loves delicious food, especially legendary burgers and ribs from the grill-master himself. If you want the perfect backyard setting for cooking and entertaining guests, it’s time to build the neighborhood’s best grill station. Design a cozy patio area for guests to relax under, yet still be able to admire the natural surroundings. Have the grills heated up and let the pleasing aromas do their work. No doubt friends will be begging to come back for seconds.

What You Want for Summer

These ideas should serve as great starting points to making your dreams come true for the summer. Everyone wants a great place to relax outside and have great parties in. If you’re looking for a great home that you can enjoy the outdoors with, check out our current home listings in Ann Arbor:

Click Here to View Ann Arbor Homes with Excellent Backyards

In an Ann Arbor State of Mind: The Cube

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on May 13, 2013

What State of Mind are You In?

Nothing can explain the complexity and artistic edge of Ann Arbor except the University of Michigan’s Cube, otherwise known as Endover. One look at it and you’ll find yourself contemplating an endless loop of thoughts. You might walk up to it and trace your fingers along its straight edges, but nonetheless you’ll continue to ponder how Endover remains standing on its pointed side. This is the atmosphere Ann Arbor has continued to pursue, not only within the University of Michigan’s campus grounds, but throughout downtown. Nothing has to be normal. Any town has shops visitors can peruse and look around, but only Ann Arbor has built-in fairy doors for their special guests. Only in Ann Arbor do you find alley bars with decorated murals plastered on their outside walls.

This is what the cube represents in Ann Arbor. It’s a testament to the city’s artistic creativity and fun-filled atmosphere. It’s a town that you can sit along a street-side cafe and muse about daily life. You can watch residents shop around or you can join in the fun. Our suggestion is to head to one of the Wolverine’s football games and feel the excitement of the community. Nowhere in Ann Arbor is life boring and normal. Living here is all about relaxation and fun.

With all this said, however; the more important question is which state of mind are you in?

Click Here to View Ann Arbor Real Estate

City Comparison: Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on May 3, 2013

Relocating to a new area is littered with challenges. Which city and neighborhood is the best? Is it a safe place to live in? Are their good schools for my children to attend? These are all basic questions that run through everyone’s minds when they decide to move — and they’re the questions everyone wants answered. Some homeowners relocating to the Michigan area might be narrowing down their choices between 2 distinct cities: Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids. Both areas are great towns, but each has its own distinct set of characteristics that makes their communities unique. Here are some simple breakdowns that might help you in your search for the right choice:

Ann Arbor:

Characterized by the University of Michigan and its artsy downtown area, Ann Arbor has expanded from the usual college town and become a distinguished community filled with some of the state’s best schools, a dozen parks to fulfill your nature side, and one of the healthiest economies. Housing is a little more expensive than Grand Rapids, but it’s traded off with more home features. Ann Arbor has tons of condos and lofts equipped with luxurious amenities; and the best part is that they’re located within walking distance of many shops, restaurants, art galleries, and the university campus. The community is more diverse and the job market has been steadily growing.

Grand Rapids:

Grand Rapids has a stronger “small town” feel, plenty of jobs, and even commands an amazing skyline. Compared to Ann Arbor’s outdoor culture, Ann Arbor wins; however, Grand Rapids has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the area. It also has easy access to Lake Michigan, which means local boaters and fishermen can head north for a good weekend adventure. The city is more work-oriented when compared to Ann Arbor’s academia feel (from the University of Michigan). It offers a great, secluded place to call home, especially for those looking to escape the city.

Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids

For more information and details about the comparison, click here.

Moving to Ann Arbor, MI

If you feel Ann Arbor might be a city you’d like to move to, but still want more information, feel free to contact us (click here). We’d be happy to address any concerns you might have, and we’d be happy to send you recommendations. If you’re looking to get a feel for the real estate market, search our current home listings by clicking the button below.

Click Here to View Ann Arbor Homes for Sale

Ann Arbor Real Estate for Sale; 2310 Hilldale, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on April 30, 2013

2310 Hilldale

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Square Feet: 1,214

This nicely updated and appointed northeast side ranch is just 2 miles from the U of M Medical Center. This home is at the end of a cul-de-sac and borders the wooded Ann Arbor Green Belt Area. At the entry you are greeted by hardwood floors throughout. Nice efficient kitchen that overlooks a deck and fenced in backyard. The three bedrooms on the entry level are serviced by a full bath. In the finished lower level there is an additional bath, family room with fireplace, recreation area with pool table and plenty of storage area. Attached is a 2.5 car garage with a separate private workshop that is perfect to work on a hobby or just to get away. Updates include: Roof, kitchen, flooring and lower level. Show and sell this Ann Arbor Real Estate today!

Things to Do in Ann Arbor, MI

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on April 26, 2013

Ann Arbor, MI is the place to be all year around. From summer to the winter, there is plenty to do in this beautiful city. The city experiences the beauty of the seasons changing; therefore there are plenty of activities to do throughout the year. The city offers plenty to do for people both young and old since it also has a large population of college students.

Summer Playground

In the summer, visitors and locals can fish in the pristine lakes and enjoy the natural landscaping. Every year, the city hosts the Ann Harbor Summer festival that highlights culture and art in the city. The festival lasts over three weeks and displays performances and shows that range from independent movies to interpretive dance. The city also offers plenty of well-maintained golf courses perfect for any golf enthusiasts needing to get their 18-holes in. The city also offers plenty of parks for individuals to jog or take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful Ann Arbor summer weather.

The City Life

Since it is considered a college city, there are plenty of fun restaurants and bars in the city. For the young crowd, the city offers a vibrant lifestyle. There are an multitude of bars and pubs to check out that offer plenty of brews on tap. For families and the older crowd, there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, giving options to cater to anyone’s food craving. The college community brings an assortment of dining options, giving both visitors and residents a vast variety of cuisine options.

Fall Paradise & Winter Wonderland

Autumn in Ann Arbor is full of energy and nature’s beautiful scenery. College students are just getting back to school, and there is a bit of excitement for new beginnings in the air. The change of seasons brings cooler air to the city, so a whole new set of autumn activities emerge. Visitors can drink hot apple cider, and watch as the leaves change for the season. Go pumpkin picking and enjoy the city’s fun decorations for Halloween.

Winter brings cold and the snow. Locals have long packed away their summer shorts and replaced them with snowsuits. Ann Arbor does see quite a bit of snow during the winter season, but with the frost comes the option for cross-country skiing or skating. Bundle up and enjoy the many winter activities available in the city, then end the day by a warm fire enjoying a cup of hot chocolate.

Spring Time

With the winter passing, brings new life with springtime. Though still a bit chilly, a snowsuit is no longer a necessity in Ann Harbor. Enjoy the blossoming flowers and the plants coming back for the spring. Enjoy the warmer weather by walking around the city and taking in its rich culture. While walking around the city stop in to check out the local boutiques and shops.

Ann Arbor is the perfect destination for any season. The seasons bring a variety of new activities to do and see while in this beautiful city.

Click Here to View Ann Arbor Real Estate

What To Do At Bandemer Park In Ann Arbor, MI

Posted by Toth Team Worldwide on April 23, 2013

Bandemer Park is located in the Michigan city of Ann Arbor and is nestled on a reclaimed patch of wood and prairie land on the banks of the Huron River. As one of the newest parks in the city, created on land bought by the city in 1985, Bandemer Park has some entertaining activities for visitors alongside a large area of woodland with walking and cycling trails. On the eastern side of the Huron River the Argo nature area runs almost parallel to Bandemer Park on the western banks of the river with both parks offering spectacular views of the river from long, unpaved walking trails.

What Makes Bandemer Park Interesting

At just under 37 acres of parkland Bandemer Park is part of the Washtenaw County Border to Border Trail and sits at the northern edge of Ann Arbor. Bought using funds given to the city by Ted and Mary Bandemer the park named after them has evolved to include a large number of different amenities, including a nine hold disc golf course and dirt trail bike course. One of the major reasons to visit Bandemer Park is the availability of leisure areas like picnic tables and grills for use by the general public.

Boating and canoe activities are popular amongst the visitors to both Bandemer Park and the Argo Nature Area. On the eastern banks of the Huron River the Argo Nature Area is home to the canoe rental center and canoe launch allowing access to the Huron River. For those wishing to experience a more competitive boating experience the Ann Arbor Rowing Club has its headquarters in the southern portion of Bandemer Park.

The Nature Area

It is impossible to discuss the Bandemer Park and Argo Nature Area without mentioning the vast variety of plant life and landscapes that make up the area. The 22 acre Argo Nature Area is home to two distinct regions divided into the northern and southern regions of the park; in the north black oaks and shagbark hickory trees dominate, while in the southern portion of the Argo visitors can walk among the willow and basswood that make up the park. Across the river in the Bandemer Park a number of distinct landscapes have been created from the filled in former river bed, which makes up the majority of the 36.9 acres. With non native species introduced to populate the parkland former fields have been reclaimed alongside dry prairie land; other regions of the park are made up of wetland areas of trees and shrubs.

Ann Arbor Real Estate

To find a home near the Bandemer Park, search our current listings:

Click Here to View Ann Arbor Real Estate

Category: Ann Arbor

How Did We Make The List?

Are Ann Arbor Residents Buying Books Locally or Online?

Amazon’s Top 20 List

The Relaxing Backyard

The Entertainment Backyard

The Chef’s Backyard

What You Want for Summer

What State of Mind are You In?

Ann Arbor:

Grand Rapids:

Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids

For more information and details about the comparison, click here.

Moving to Ann Arbor, MI