Spring in Northern Michigan

Happy Spring! Spring in Northern Michigan is a roller coaster of weather, but it's well worth the ride as we approach summer, when the area truly shines. With moderate temperatures, crisp fresh air, and breathtaking beauty surrounding us, summers in Northern Michigan are hard to beat. Before I get ahead of myself, let's discuss what's coming up this spring. It's a busy time of year as many homeowners prepare their spaces for the warmer season. I wanted to share some of my favorite "spring cleaning" tips to make your summer more enjoyable.

Decluttering  

Let’s be real: I feel like I’m constantly decluttering. Over time, I've realized I need less and less in my home. Embracing a minimalist lifestyle has proven beneficial for my mind. To tackle decluttering, I focus on one space at a time, even if it’s just a small drawer. I remove everything from that space and create two piles: donate, and put away. If I haven’t used an item in a year, or since my last cleanout, it goes in the donate pile. If it’s in the wrong place, it goes in the putaway pile. A helpful tip I’ve learned is to donate anything that’s been sitting in the back of my closet for over a year.

Donating

Each month, I start a donation bag. As I move around my home, if I notice something that no longer brings me joy (thanks, Marie Kondo), I add it to my donation bag. Once it’s filled up, I take it to a local donation center. My favorite place to donate is Samaritan’s Closet in Lake Leelanau, a wonderful resale shop that also supports our neighbors in need through its giveaways. The sales from donated items directly contribute to helping those in our community.

Organizing  

Organizing is something I find myself doing constantly. It’s not just an as-needed task; it’s a daily practice that makes everyday life easier. I’ve implemented a bin or bag system that has been incredibly helpful. Opting for clear bins allows me to quickly see everything inside, perfect for finding items when I'm in a hurry. I use open bins for frequently accessed items like cleaning supplies, pantry goods, and fridge items, while closed bins are great for storage, allowing me to stack them and maximize space. This system makes it easy to return items to their designated spots and rearrange as needed. If I find any used batteries, bug spray cans, or any other hazardous waste, I put them in a bin in my garage. Then I schedule an appointment with Leelanau County to drop them off or during one of their hazardous waste collection days. To schedule an appointment or to find their collection dates, you may find them here. 

Embracing the Outdoors

Spring is the perfect time to immerse yourself in nature. With moderate temperatures and minimal foot traffic on popular trails, it's a refreshing time to recharge before summer arrives. Personally, I love hiking in spring because of the mild weather and the less crowded trails. One of my favorite spots is within the National Lake Shore of Sleeping Bear Dunes. If I'm looking for a quick, effective workout, I head to Pyramid Point. The short but steep incline really gets those leg muscles working! Plus, the drive to Pyramid Point through Point Oneida is absolutely stunning—it's where my husband and I had our engagement pictures taken, showcasing the beauty of all seasons. 

Leelanau County really comes alive when cherry blossom season rolls around! The whole area lights up with beautiful pink and white blooms on the cherry trees, and it’s such a happy reminder that spring has finally arrived. It's amazing how much these blossoms mean to our community, especially since cherry farming plays such a big role here. Plus, who doesn’t love the treats from Cherry Republic? The cherry blossoms truly capture the spirit of our beloved region!

Real Estate Tip of the Month  

Spring also marks the beginning of the real estate season in Northern Michigan. As the sun comes out, so do new homes on the market. If you’re hoping to find your dream home by the start of summer, now is the time to begin your search. In our fast-paced market, desirable properties that tick most of your boxes won’t linger long. If you discover a home that meets your needs—budget, location, and size—don’t hesitate to put in an offer! Trust your agent to guide you toward the right home; that’s what I’m here for.

As we embrace the arrival of spring and all the opportunities it brings, I hope these tips inspire you to refresh your home and make the most of this vibrant season. Whether it's decluttering your space, donating to those in need, or organizing your belongings, a little effort can go a long way in enhancing your summer experience. Remember to take time for yourself, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and explore the stunning trails that Northern Michigan has to offer. As the real estate market heats up, stay proactive in your home search and trust the process. Here’s to a wonderful spring and an even more enjoyable summer ahead!