Doug Sheneman City2Shore Real Estate

06/05/2026

It's National Donut Day today! Go grab yourself one or a dozen to share! 🍩😊

06/03/2026

Smaller homes are having a moment.
That’s because affordability is tight and, for many buyers, smaller is what fits the budget. And builders are listening.
Newly built homes have been trending smaller since 2014 – and that’s on purpose.
They're more affordable than larger homes. And many come with built-in community amenities like walking trails, fitness centers, and even co-working spaces, so less space still delivers.
If you've been feeling priced out of bigger homes, a smaller one could fit your budget and your lifestyle. And with brand-new everything, it may not feel like as much of a compromise as you think.
Call me and I can let you know what's available in our area. 616-522-8822

06/01/2026

05/29/2026

After a year or more of rates coming down, things have changed. And lately, mortgage rates have been climbing again.
And if that's made you wonder whether you should delay your move until they drop, you're not the only one.
The honest truth is that rates probably won't come down much until inflation cools off and some of the global uncertainty settles. And no one knows exactly when that'll be.
But what most headlines won't tell you is that rates aren't the only thing that affects affordability. Sure, they’re a big factor, but not all of the affordability news is bad.
Wages, home prices, and inventory are all trending in a direction that could still help make your move possible.
Want to know what that actually looks like for your situation? Give me a call. 616-522-8822

Because even though rates are higher, there are pockets of opportunity in any market, if you know where to look.

05/27/2026

You’ve probably heard of the Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan. But do you know what it offers?
In a recent survey, 68% of Veterans didn’t know they may be able to buy a home with zero money down. 77% didn’t know PMI isn’t always required.
Many also have no idea they may be able to count their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) as income.
Any of those VA loan benefits could make homeownership more achievable than you realize.
If you’ve served (or know someone who has), get in touch with me and I will get you in touch with a trusted lender for more information on VA home loan options and what you may qualify for. 616-522-8822

05/25/2026

Today we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage, service, and dedication will never be forgotten.
Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day as we spend time with family, friends, and community. ❤️🤍💙

05/22/2026

Now might be a smart time to look at newly built homes.
Builders are motivated to keep their inventory moving, so they’re offering incentives like mortgage rate buydowns and closing cost help to draw in buyers.
It also means they may be more flexible on price. In fact, the median price for newly built homes just hit a five-year low for this exact reason.
Builder perks and lower prices? That’s a combo worth paying attention to.
Call me to talk through what’s available in our area and which builders are offering the best incentives today. 616-522-8822

05/20/2026

Closed in Fruitport!🔑
It's always bittersweet to see wonderful clients move on from a home filled with so many memories, but I couldn't be more excited for my sellers as they begin a new chapter. Working with this family has truly been such a blessing, and I am beyond thankful for the trust, friendships and relationships that real estate continues to bring into my life. I am also happy for the buyers who now get to enjoy this incredible home and property for years to come. Congratulations to everyone involved! 🏠✨

05/18/2026

80% of homeowners still expect to get their asking price or more when they sell. But right now, only about 40% actually do.
That might sound surprising, but it’s not. It’s normal.
The issue is where those outdating pricing expectations are coming from.
Some sellers are still pricing high just to “see what happens.” And that strategy doesn’t work now that inventory has grown.
When a house is priced above where it should be today, buyers don’t negotiate. They move on to other options.
That’s when homes sit, and sellers have to slash prices – sometimes below what they could’ve gotten if they’d just priced right from the start.
That’s why the sellers getting the best results right now are doing something different.
They’re pricing at (or even slightly below) market value from day 1. Because that’s what creates demand early and puts you in a position to sell faster… and potentially for more.
So don’t price based on the past. Price for today’s market.
If you want to be part of the forty percent with a winning strategy, call me. 616-522-8822

05/16/2026

Hey Facebook friends - If you have items you need to get rid of and we still have space left in the dumpster, you are welcome to use it!
I hosted an event for our Allendale neighborhood this morning, and currently, there is still some space available.