Downtown Holland, Michigan, is an enchanting wonderland where rich history meets vibrant modernity, offering visitors and locals
alike a captivating small-town experience with an international flair. Known for its unique Dutch heritage, this charming district is filled with picturesque streets, delightful boutiques, and a lively arts scene that beautifully intertwines to create an inviting atmosphere.
Stroll along the award-winning heated sidewalks to explore an extraordinary array of locally-owned shops and craft stores, each brimming with distinctive products and warm, friendly service. Indulge in delectable Dutch pastries at the local bakeries, or savor international cuisine at the renowned eateries that dot the downtown scene. The lively calendar of events, from bustling farmers' markets to the unforgettable Tulip Time Festival, transforms the area into a dynamic hub of celebration and community spirit year-round.
Art lovers will find themselves drawn to the artistic expressions showcased at local galleries and studios, while architecture enthusiasts will be captivated by the beautifully preserved historic buildings that grace the downtown landscape. Holland’s vibrant downtown is a testament to community pride and cultural richness, promising an experience that is wonderfully refreshing and uniquely fulfilling. Come for the beauty; stay for the spirited embrace of camaraderie in this delightful Midwest destination.
Charming Downtown Holland
Charming Downtown Holland: A Midwest Gem with a Dutch Twist
Downtown Holland, Michigan, is an enchanting wonderland where rich history meets vibrant modernity, offering visitors and locals alike a captivating small-town experience with an international flair. Known for its unique Dutch heritage, this charming district is filled with picturesque streets, delightful boutiques, and a lively arts scene that beautifully intertwines to create an inviting atmosphere.
Stroll along the award-winning heated sidewalks to explore an extraordinary array of locally-owned shops and craft stores, each brimming with distinctive products and warm, friendly service. Indulge in delectable Dutch pastries at the local bakeries, or savor international cuisine at the renowned eateries that dot the downtown scene. The lively calendar of events, from bustling farmers' markets to the unforgettable Tulip Time Festival, transforms the area into a dynamic hub of celebration and community spirit year-round.
Art lovers will find themselves drawn to the artistic expressions showcased at local galleries and studios, while architecture enthusiasts will be captivated by the beautifully preserved historic buildings that grace the downtown landscape. Holland’s vibrant downtown is a testament to community pride and cultural richness, promising an experience that is wonderfully refreshing and uniquely fulfilling. Come for the beauty; stay for the spirited embrace of camaraderie in this delightful Midwest destination.
FEATURED STORY
What Most People Overlook When Buying a Home in Holland
by Tantzi Habsburg
uying a home in Holland, Michigan, is about more than choosing a house that looks right or fits your budget. Along the Lakeshore, small details can make a big difference in how comfortable and affordable your property is over time. The location of a home near the water brings unique conditions that may not appear in a listing, but can strongly affect maintenance, energy costs, and long-term value.One area that surprises many buyers is how local zoning rules can limit future changes. Some neighborhoods have restrictions on additions, fences, or even exterior paint colors.
6 | HelloHolland, Michigan • Fall Issue
Tantzi Habsburg
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tantzi Habsburg is a RE/MAX Lakeshore real estate agent specializing in West Michigan’s lakefront properties. With a background in natural resource protection, seamanship, and construction, she brings deep knowledge of Michigan’s waterways and homes. A lifelong lake enthusiast, she helps clients buy and sell along Lake Michigan’s scenic shoreline communities from Grand Haven to South Haven.
Others fall under township ordinances that regulate short-term rentals or boat storage. A buyer planning to remodel or rent out part of the property should confirm what is allowed before making an offer. It is easy to fall in love with a view, but harder to undo a rule that limits what you can do with the space.Drainage and soil conditions are another concern. Properties near Lake Michigan or inland waterways can experience seasonal flooding or shifting ground. Drainage patterns that seem minor in summer may lead to soggy lawns or basement leaks after spring thaw. A local inspection and a review of floodplain
Hello Holland, Michigan • Fall Issue |7
What Most People Overlook When Buying a Home in Holland
uying a home in Holland, Michigan, is about more than choosing a house that looks right or fits your budget. Along the Lakeshore, small details can make a big difference in how comfortable and affordable your property is over time. The location of a home near the water brings unique conditions that may not appear in a listing, but can strongly affect maintenance, energy costs, and long-term value. One area that surprises many buyers is how local zoning rules can limit future changes. Some neighborhoods have restrictions on additions, fences, or even exterior paint colors. Others fall under township ordinances that regulate short-term rentals or boat storage. A buyer planning to remodel or rent out part of the property should confirm what is allowed before making an offer. It is easy to fall in love with a view, but harder to undo a rule that limits what you can do with the space. Drainage and soil conditions are another concern. Properties near Lake Michigan or inland waterways can experience seasonal flooding or shifting ground. Drainage patterns that seem minor in summer may lead to soggy lawns or basement leaks after spring thaw. A local inspection and a review of floodplain maps can reveal whether a home needs special grading or sump pump systems. Those small precautions often save homeowners from large expenses later. The lake itself also shapes everyday comfort. Winds off Lake Michigan can be strong and unpredictable, especially in winter. The direction of those winds affects how warm or cold a home feels, even with the same insulation and windows. South-facing properties may benefit from natural warmth and light, while those facing north often experience more drifting snow and higher heating costs. An experienced local agent can help you understand how these patterns play out across different parts of Holland. Another overlooked factor is maintenance from lake exposure. Salt and moisture in the air can wear down siding, decking, and outdoor fixtures faster than in inland areas. Buyers should look closely at the age and condition of exterior materials. Homes built with durable finishes or designed with wind protection often prove more efficient to maintain. A pre-purchase inspection focused on exterior wear can help gauge future upkeep costs. A local real estate expert can translate these subtle differences into clear, practical guidance for each neighborhood. Their understanding of drainage, zoning, and microclimates helps buyers make choices based on how a home will truly perform, not just how it looks on paper. For most people, buying a home in Holland is a major decision that blends lifestyle, investment, and location. The beauty of the Lakeshore comes with responsibilities that are easy to overlook without local insight. By asking careful questions and seeking knowledgeable guidance early, buyers can find a property that not only fits their budget but also endures the elements and community expectations for years to come.
A local realestate expert canturn these subtledifferences into practical guidancefor each neighborhood.
maps can reveal whether a home needs special grading or sump pump systems. Those small precautions often save homeowners from large expenses later.The lake itself also shapes everyday comfort. Winds off Lake Michigan can be strong and unpredictable, especially in winter. The direction of those winds affects how warm or cold a home feels, even with the same insulation and windows. South-facing properties may benefit from natural warmth and light, while those facing north...
FEATURED STORY
Finding the Right Season to Buy a Lakeshore Home in West Michigan
by Tantzi Habsburg
Buying a home on the lakeshore involves more than just choosing the right location. The timing of your purchase impacts both the homes available to you and the price you’ll pay. In West Michigan’s competitive waterfront market, understanding seasonal trends can give you an edge.Spring typically brings the largest wave of new listings. Many homeowners list in April or May, just as the weather improves and buyers re-enter the market. This season offers the widest selection, from cottages to year-round residences, and attracts families hoping to move before fall. However,
8 | HelloHolland, Michigan • Fall Issue
Tantzi Habsburg
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tantzi Habsburg is a RE/MAX Lakeshore real estate agent specializing in West Michigan’s lakefront properties. With a background in natural resource protection, seamanship, and construction, she brings deep knowledge of Michigan’s waterways and homes. A lifelong lake enthusiast, she helps clients buy and sell along Lake Michigan’s scenic shoreline communities from Grand Haven to South Haven.
more inventory also means increased competition—bidding wars become common, and sellers often have the upper hand.Summer remains active, but with subtle shifts. Good weather draws visitors to open houses, yet many of the best listings may already be under contract. Buyers beginning their search in June or July face quick turnaround times, as desirable properties rarely linger during peak season.Autumn marks a noticeable shift. As school starts and vacation season ends, demand slows. Sellers who haven’t found a buyer may become more flexible, and some listings drop in price before winter. For buyers, fall is
Hello Holland, Michigan • Fall Issue |9
Finding the Right Season to Buy a Lakeshore Home in West Michigan
Buying a home on the lakeshore involves more than just choosing the right location. The timing of your purchase impacts both the homes available to you and the price you’ll pay. In West Michigan’s competitive waterfront market, understanding seasonal trends can give you an edge.
Spring typically brings the largest wave of new listings. Many homeowners list in April or May, just as the weather improves and buyers re-enter the market. This season offers the widest selection, from cottages to year-round residences, and attracts families hoping to move before fall. However, more inventory also means increased competition—bidding wars become common, and sellers often have the upper hand.
Summer remains active, but with subtle shifts. Good weather draws visitors to open houses, yet many of the best listings may already be under contract. Buyers beginning their search in June or July face quick turnaround times, as desirable properties rarely linger during peak season.
Autumn marks a noticeable shift. As school starts and vacation season ends, demand slows. Sellers who haven’t found a buyer may become more flexible, and some listings drop in price before winter. For buyers, fall is often the best time to negotiate—opportunity meets preparation for those ready to act.
Winter can be both challenging and rewarding. Fewer homes are listed, but those that remain are often priced by motivated sellers. With less competition, buyers can take their time and sometimes secure favorable terms. The tradeoff is limited selection and the challenge of viewing waterfront properties when shorelines are frozen or snow-covered.
Ultimately, the best time to buy depends on your goals. If variety is your priority, late spring provides the most options. If value matters more, fall and early winter may offer better negotiating conditions. Buyers who plan ahead, track listings year-round, and work with a knowledgeable local agent can take full advantage of these seasonal shifts.
Lakeshore communities like Holland, Grand Haven, and Saugatuck follow similar seasonal patterns, though local demand can vary. Holland’s strong year-round market means desirable homes sell quickly in any season, while smaller towns may experience slower periods after summer.
Your ideal timing also depends on your lifestyle. If you want to enjoy summer in your new home, aim to close by late spring. Buyers seeking a year-round residence may benefit from waiting until fall, when there’s less competition and more room to negotiate.
There’s no single perfect month to buy, but understanding how the market shifts throughout the year can help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.
Fall can bethe seasonwhen opportunitymeets preparation for lakeshorebuyers who are readyto act.
often the best time to negotiate—opportunity meets preparation for those ready to act.Winter can be both challenging and rewarding. Fewer homes are listed, but those that remain are often priced by motivated sellers. With less competition, buyers can take their time and sometimes secure favorable terms. The tradeoff is limited selection and the challenge of viewing waterfront properties when shorelines are frozen or snow-covered.Ultimately, the best time to buy depends on...
