Ask for Belinda, Key Realty

06/19/2026

How to Spot a Well-Maintained Home
Fresh paint and staged furniture can make almost any house look good — that's the point. What you actually want to know before you fall in love with the countertops is whether the home has been well cared for. That difference shows up in places that never make it into the listing photos.
Start Outside
Walk...

Learn how to look past the staging and spot the signs of a truly well-maintained home, from the foundation grading and roof condition to the mechanical systems and small details that reveal how a property has really been cared for.

06/17/2026

Section 8 housing vouchers are designed to help low-income, disabled and elderly people afford decent housing. Here is how they work.

The federal government offers assistance to allow low-income families, disabled people and the elderly to rent homes through the Section 8 Housing program.

06/16/2026

✅ Love this

Olive vibe 🫒

06/15/2026

How to Make Your Home Look Move-In Ready
Most sellers focus on price, but buyers are making a different calculation when they walk through your door. They're asking whether the home feels like somewhere they could actually live. That answer forms fast, often before they've made it past the entryway. So the question worth asking before you list...

Most sellers focus on price, but buyers are making a different calculation when they walk through your door. They're asking whether the home feels like somewhere they could actually live. That answer forms fast, often before they've made it past the entryway. So the question worth asking before...

06/14/2026

📋 Ensure a smooth transition into your new home by taking care of these essential tasks.

06/14/2026

👋 Numbers are in for Kalkaska, MI 49646, May 2026

What’s happening

- Inventory & Supply: 3.67 months supply, a 33% increase from last month, down 3% year-over-year.
- Price Trends: Average sold price at $310,000, reflecting a 39% increase from last month.
- Days on Market: Average of 30 days, a 36% drop from last month, indicating faster sales.

Why it matters

- Pricing Strategy: With a average sold price of $310,000 and rising, strategic pricing can maximize returns.
- Market Leverage: Reduced median days on market suggests a competitive environment favoring well-presented homes.

Now what

1.Set the Right Price: Align your listing price with the current average sold prices.
2. Stage Your Home Effectively: With quicker sales, ensure your home stands out to capture buyer interest.
3. Engage a Local Expert: Work with a knowledgeable agent to navigate the active vs. pending listing dynamics.

Kalkaska offers charming attractions like the annual National Trout Festival and several lakes for summer fun. . For personalized advice on listing your home in Kalkaska, contact Belinda Mercado at Key Realty, via [email protected] 231-645-2600

06/13/2026

✨Today is inspection day✅ Even though the home is only a few years old, I always encourage my clients to have the inspection. Today we will be utilizing Big Moose.

Thinking of skipping the home inspection on that newer home? 🛑

Think again!Just because a house is only a few years old doesn't mean it’s flawless. There are a lot of moving parts and different subcontractors involved in building or updating a house, and mistakes absolutely happen.Here is why an independent, professional home inspection is always a must:Hidden Mistakes: Builders are human! An inspector can find hidden hazards like ungrounded electrical outlets, poor ventilation, or improperly sealed roofs that could cost you thousands in the long run.Warranty Leverage: If it's a new build, a professional report gives you the exact leverage you need to force the builder to fix defects while it's still entirely their responsibility.Peace of Mind: You are making a massive financial investment. Knowing your home’s plumbing, HVAC, and foundation are in top shape before you move in is priceless.Don't rely solely on builder walkthroughs—hire your own trusted professional to make sure your dream home doesn't turn into a nightmare!

👉Want to know how to protect your biggest investment? Reach out to a certified local Home Inspectors to get an unbiased assessment.

06/13/2026

How to Maintain Decks and Patios for Long-Term Use
Your outdoor living space is worth protecting. Whether you have a wood deck, a composite platform, or a poured concrete patio, neglect tends to compound quickly. A small crack ignored now can become a serious repair bill later. The good news? Most of what keeps these spaces in good shape is straightforward...

Your outdoor living space is worth protecting. Whether you have a wood deck, a composite platform, or a poured concrete patio, neglect tends to compound quickly. A small crack ignored now can become a serious repair bill later. The good news? Most of what keeps these spaces in good shape is...

06/12/2026

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home, and it needs inspecting twice a year. Keep your family safe and dry with this guide to inspecting your roof yourself.

A sound roof is crucial to your home’s most essential function: shelter. Good maintenance of your roof protects you from the elements and expensive repairs.