Nestled beside Glen Lake, Glen Arbor is a jewel in Michigan's crown. One of its most defining attractions is the Sleeping Bear Dunes, a sprawling natural wonder. These dunes are not just vast stretches of sandy beaches but also feature impressive bluffs that rise a staggering 450 feet above Lake Michigan, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. The rich biodiversity here, from unique flora to diverse fauna, adds to the allure.
But Glen Arbor's appeal isn't limited to its natural beauty alone. The area is steeped in maritime history. Visitors and residents alike can explore the island lighthouse, a testament to the area's navigational past. The US Life-Saving Service stations stand as reminders of the region's commitment to maritime safety. Add to this the charm of coastal villages where time seems to slow, and historic farmsteads that provide a glimpse into the area's agricultural heritage.
All these features combine to make Glen Arbor not just a tourist destination, but a sought-after location for property buyers who want a blend of natural beauty, history, and community.
If you've recently purchased a home in Glen Arbor or if you are considering starting your search for
Glen Arbor homes for sale, you'll need to outline a plan. Moving can be a big project with a lot of shifting components, especially if you are relocating to Glen Arbor from another state or country. These relocating tips will help keep you on task and focused, enabling you to experience a move that is both exciting and stress-free.
1. Research the community thoroughly
Even if you've visited Glen Arbor before, there's always a lot to learn about a new community before you move. Take time to familiarize yourself with Glen Arbor's history and culture. The
town's official website offers unique insight into the atmosphere and personality of Glen Arbor, as well as different activities and a walking map for those who can't wait to stroll the picturesque downtown area. It's also a good idea to join neighborhood social media pages to connect with other people who have embraced the Glen Arbor lifestyle.
2. Visit Glen Arbor ahead of time if possible
It's always best to make at least one trip to your new town if possible. While you can learn a lot about a community from the internet, there's nothing quite like immersing yourself in the culture of Glen Arbor. During your trip, make stops at local small businesses and restaurants, and don't hesitate to ask the business owners and locals what they love most about the town. Look for under-the-radar places while you're in town to get a better idea of where locals prefer to spend their time. While there are a few shops in Glen Arbor, a trip here will help you realize the nuances of life here, such as that most residents will take a weekly trip to Traverse City to stock up on groceries.
3. Create a moving file
There are a lot of documents involved in moving to a new town. From home contracts and financial documents to moving estimates, it's easy to end up completely overwhelmed with paperwork. To keep from losing any of your valuable documents, consider keeping a moving file. While you could use a binder, it probably makes more sense to use a bin or a box, labeled clearly so you know what's inside. Keep this moving file close to you in the months and weeks leading up to your move and put any important paperwork in the file as you go.
4. Calculate your commute
Your commute will directly impact your quality of life, so it's important to know exactly how much time you'll spend driving to and from your Glen Arbor home to your work. Of course, many people work remotely, and if you fall into that category, there's no need to do these calculations. If you work in one of the nearby towns, such as Traverse City or Leland, however, you should do some estimates to see what to expect.
5. Find new doctors and pharmacies
It's easy and exciting to explore new restaurants and shopping centers after you move to Glen Arbor, but before your move, you should establish who your primary care physician is going to be. It's also a good idea to proactively make doctor and dentist appointments at these care providers for everyone in your family before you move. Doctors and dentists often book appointments months in advance. Getting this step handled can leave one less chore for you to tackle after the move date.
6. Hire a reputable moving company
Hiring a moving company can make all the difference in keeping your move seamless. Moving companies can keep the packing process organized and save you a great deal of time. Don't just hire any moving company though. There are hundreds of moving companies who will offer you various deals that might seem excellent but, upon closer inspection, might not be up to your standards. Look at reviews for moving companies you're considering. It's also a good idea to talk to your realtor about any moving companies that they might be able to recommend to you.
7. Use your calendar to keep track of dates
Moving often involves a lot of travel, whether you're driving to your new home or flying. Either way, there will be a lot of dates and appointments to keep track of. Using a calendar can help you stay on track as you progress through the various stages of the moving process. Most people prefer to use their phone's calendar, but it can also be helpful to write down dates in a physical calendar or a day planner. Update it as you go so you don't forget important dates.
8. Hire a cleaning company
Before you leave your current home, having a cleaning company do a full service on the interior is a great way to welcome in the new owners. Additionally, try to schedule a time for a cleaning company to thoroughly clean your new Glen Arbor property. Ideally, this would be done before you move in, so the first time you walk in the front door, you'll be greeted by a sparkling clean interior and the smell of new beginnings.
9. Forward your mail
One of the most important relocating tips is to make sure to forward your mail well before your move. Forwarding your mail ahead of time ensures that you don't miss any vital communications, such as bills or packages. It's easy to forward your mail online through the
United States Postal Service's official website. It can also be done in person if you prefer to visit your local post office and fill out the simple form.
When talking about mail, it’s important to note that Glen Arbor has a post office and both UPS and FedEx drop boxes (not something that can be found in nearby Leland). Knowing details like this will help you get a sense of what life in Glen Arbor will be like.
Robin Vilter can assist in finding Glen Arbor homes for sale
Glen Arbor is a charming community that offers something for everyone. If you're ready to make Glen Arbor your new home, use these relocation tips to ensure a successful move. If you haven't purchased a home yet and want to start your search for Glen Arbor homes for sale, reach out to The Robin Vilter Group.
A luxury real estate expert in Michigan, Robin is well-versed in coming up with creative solutions for all your home buying and selling needs. Robin can help you find your dream home, whether it's located in Glen Arbor or Traverse City.
Contact Robin Vilter today to learn more about how you can start your home search!
