A Summer Morning in Lapeer: Tennis, Family, and Max's Donuts
The Lapeer Summer Tennis Program
For the past few years, my children have been enrolled in the summer tennis program in Lapeer. The program is run by Coach Rodriguez, who has a unique coaching style that I highly recommend. His approach to teaching tennis is not only effective but also engaging, making every session enjoyable for the kids and as a parent, I like that my kids leave each session having learned a new skill.
An Unexpected Turn of Events
This morning, we prepared to head out for another day of tennis. Despite the weather forecast, we were optimistic and looking forward to working on our serves. However, upon arriving at the tennis courts, we discovered that the combination of rain and a high air quality index had led to the cancellation of the day's lessons.
A Visit to Grandma Gigi and Papa John
With the tennis lessons cancelled, we decided to visit Grandma Gigi and Papa John, who live in Lapeer. We thought we might wait and see if the boys' 10 o'clock lesson would still take place. However, as any unannounced house guest knows, it's always a good idea to bring a "gift" when visiting… even if it is your parents!
A Trip Down Memory Lane at Max's Donuts
That's when I had the idea to bring a half dozen donuts from my favorite childhood bakery, Max's Donuts. Located at 350 W Genesee St in Lapeer, Max's Donuts is a local favorite that has been serving the community for years. The bakery is open from 5:00 am to 2:00 pm every day, making it the perfect spot for a morning treat.
Upon arriving at Max's, I was pleased to see that it looked much like I remembered, with the exception of in-store dining no longer being available, likely a result of the Covid era. Despite this change, the bakery still had a warm and welcoming atmosphere… and smelled amazing!
The Donut Selection at Max's
Bro… Yum!
While waiting in line, we watched as a gentleman in front of us ordered two dozen of Max's finest donuts. The variety of donuts available was impressive, and the kids were excited to choose their own.
London ~ chocolate-covered donut with fruity pebbles ~ “The fruity pebbles were sooooooooo yummy!” Rating: 4 out of 4 flip flops
Aria ~ chocolate-covered donut ~ “shrugs shoulders - I love chocolate, this donut is perfect!” Rating: 4 out of 4 flip flops
Jayce ~ donut with purple sprinkles ~ “I really like it, I just wish it was bigger…” Rating: 3.5 out of 4 flip flops
Aiden ~ chocolate sprinkle donut ~ “Sprinkles make everything better! Rating: 4 out of 4 flip flops
My favorite part of our quick visit was seeing 7 customers (no exaggeration!) lined up behind us getting their sugary fix as well. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a locally owned and operated business flourishing on a Thursday morning!
The Verdict
Max's Donuts did not disappoint. I was a bit taken aback at the price of $8.75 for a half dozen, but I am surprised at most prices these days (God that makes me sound old…LOL). The donuts were as delicious as I remembered, and the kids thoroughly enjoyed them. The staff at Max's were wonderful, and the service was prompt. The bakery has received numerous positive reviews online, with many customers praising the excellent donuts and friendly service.
Looking Ahead
I may have inadvertently created a new tradition – tennis followed by donuts. But, why not? It's summer, and a little indulgence never hurt anyone. I can't wait to see the kids' faces next week when they realize that tennis doesn't always equal donuts. But for now, I'm content knowing that we've created some sweet summer memories, thanks to Max's Donuts.
So, if you find yourself in Lapeer, why not stop by Max's Donuts for a sweet treat? And if you've already been, I'd love to hear about your favorite donuts in the comments below!
The Top 5 Reasons to (Not) Work with Me: Because Who Needs a Realtor Anyway?
I just can’t help myself when it comes to utilizing AI. While I use several different tools throughout my workday, I always end up coming back to the all familiar Chat GPT. While thinking of reasons why “you” would want to work with me, I couldn’t help but having some fun with my AI friend. I gave it my top 5 reasons that I think you should work with me and asked it to sarcastically spin it so that they were actually reasons you don’t want to work with me… LOL! It’s fun to get a little goofy every now and again, so take a read and let me know what you think!
Putting the "Real" in Realtor, with a Twist of Sarcasm and a Dash of Self-Deprecation
Reason One: I'm a Procrastination Expert (Or So I Like to Believe)
You know what they say, "Why do today what you can put off until tomorrow?" Well, that's pretty much my life motto. If you're looking for a Realtor who will respond to your inquiries with lightning speed, well, you might want to keep on looking. I mean, who needs promptness and efficiency when you can have an agent who takes their sweet time getting back to you? It's like a real-life waiting game, and hey, patience is a virtue, right?
Reason Two: Expert in the Art of Unintelligible Jargon
Ever wanted to feel like you're trapped in a linguistics lecture from the 18th century? Look no further! I've mastered the art of spouting incomprehensible real estate jargon that will leave you scratching your head in confusion. Why use plain English when you can impress clients with terms like "escrow," "amortization," and "encumbrance"? Let's turn the simple act of buying or selling a home into a mind-bending vocabulary challenge!
Reason Three: The Master of "Oops, I Forgot!"
Remember that time I promised to include your dream home on the viewing list, but somehow it slipped my mind? Yeah, that's just one of my many talents. From forgetting to send important documents to conveniently leaving out crucial details about a property, you can count on me to keep you on your toes. After all, surprises are what make life exciting, aren't they?
Reason Four: BFFs with Murphy's Law
You know how they say that anything that can go wrong will go wrong? Well, I've taken that saying as a personal challenge. Need a smooth and hassle-free real estate experience? Sorry, but my superpower is attracting unexpected obstacles and unforeseen hiccups. From mysterious plumbing leaks to sudden termite infestations, I'll make sure your journey is anything but boring. Just think of me as your very own real estate adventure guide!
Reason Five: Slightly Sardonic Sense of Humor Included
If there's one thing I can guarantee, it's that you won't be bored when working with me. My sardonic sense of humor is an acquired taste, but hey, life is too short to be serious all the time, right? Brace yourself for a steady stream of self-deprecating jokes, witty banter, and the occasional sarcastic remark. Laughter might not solve all your real estate problems, but it can make the journey a whole lot more enjoyable.
Conclusion:
So there you have it, the top 5 reasons (not) to work with me as your Realtor. From my expertise in procrastination to my mastery of perplexing jargon, I'm here to make your real estate journey an unforgettable experience. Just remember, while my approach may be unconventional, my dedication to helping you find or sell your dream home is anything but. So, if you're up for an adventure filled with laughter, occasional frustration, and a healthy dose of sarcasm, let's embark on this real estate rollercoaster together!
Pretty convincing list huh? 😉 Please keep in mind that this is dripping in sarcasm and is meant as complete satire. I’d love to work with you, so if you cracked a smile reading this, we might be a good fit for each other. Call me!! 🤙🤙
Independence Day and Hitting the 'Reset' Button
What a crazy ass year it has been! Seriously… 2020 feels like what 2012 was predicted to be and while I cannot believe it is already July, it feels like it’s taken a decade to get this far. I’m crossing my fingers that we’ll see a much calmer second half to 2020, but that may just be wishful thinking.
This morning I’m sitting here listening to some music and just trying to relax before the hectic holiday plans kick into gear.
Earlier this week, my family and I were able to get away for a few days and it was a nice way to get out of the daily grind and hit the reset button as a family. We tried out our first ever AirBnB and we absolutely loved it! It was right on Lake Huron with our own little private beach and views for days!
Family Picture in Lexington!
I’m showing a few houses to a client later today and then meeting the family at our first party of the day! Here’s hoping you and yours can get out and enjoy the holiday and in spite of the challenges the world is facing, spend some time with those that matter most!
Happy 4th of July!
How good of a seller's market is it? Can it be for real?
Good morning! It is a beautiful Friday morning and I am trying to get this written before my munchkins wake up, so let’s get right to it!
A great many of my peers in real estate have been beating the drum of low inventory and it’s a seller’s market. I’m fairly analytical, so I want to dive into the numbers and see if they were on point or if they were just using “sales tactics” to work their sphere.
To calculate months of inventory (MOI), I first needed to calculate the burn rate, or homes closed in the past 12 months and then average that out. Once the closed rate is calculated, I would take the current number of homes active and for sale and divide by the closed rate to get the MOI.
There has been discussion on what a balanced market looks like, but experts have agreed that roughly 5 to 6 months of inventory is fairly balanced and does not favor either the buyer or seller directly.
Let’s jump in to the numbers and see what my local market is doing.
Lapeer
Average Closed Home Sales per month - 40
Current Inventory - 102
MOI is 2.5 months
Davison
Average Closed Home Sales per month - 35
Current Inventory - 55
MOI is 1.5 months
Woah!! You have heard agents and housing experts saying that it is a seller’s market and I just proved it by the numbers. I cannot tell the future, but I don’t foresee this changing any time soon in my local market.
Food for thought if you had been contemplating selling your home. My weekly market update goes out today at 11:30 with tons of useful information and I even worked in a Lil’ Jon reference as well. Don’t miss it, make sure to subscribe by clicking the My Newsletter tab.
Cheers to the Weekend!
A Family Affair
Kids… My kids are everywhere, all the time, no matter where I go.
For the past few months, the shelter at home order here in Michigan coupled with school being cancelled and my career in real estate being relegated to the non-essential… I have been pushed to evolve into a full time stay-at-home Dad.
Cheers to all of you parents that have juggled working, parenting and just plain 'ol existing during these crazy times!
But... I'm back baby! Regardless of how you feel about the governor's stance in relation to Covid-19, Michigan is crushing it in terms of containing the virus and the real estate market is on fire.
Now that I'm back, I've been fortunate to have helped 2 first time home buyers, one we've closed and one is pending, just this week! You may hear my kids in the background when we’re discussing showings and different properties. They are used prominently in my marketing because they are everywhere, my partners in crime and I wouldn't be the person I am without them.
Call me any time to discuss your real estate needs, my assistants and I are always ready to help! 😁
Start them young! My best sales associates 2020!