Winter in southwest Michigan is beautiful — but it’s also cold, long, and often unpredictable. As temperatures drop in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, and surrounding areas, many homeowners start to feel the impact not just in the air, but on their utility bills. The good news? You can  keep your home warm and cozy without  overspending on energy. With a few smart adjustments and preventative steps, Michigan winters become a lot more manageable (and affordable). Here are the to

Winter in Southwest Michigan can be beautiful—but it can also be tough on your home if you’re not prepared. Between lake-effect snow, freezing temperatures, and long cold snaps, now is the perfect time to make sure your home is protected, energy-efficient, and ready for the months ahead. Here are the must-do  winter prep steps for homeowners in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, and surrounding areas. 1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing Southwest Michigan winters routinely hit bel

As we look ahead to 2026, the housing market may be poised for a meaningful rebound — but not without its own set of opportunities and challenges. Below are several major trends that experts are predicting for next year, and what they could mean for homebuyers and sellers in Southwest Michigan , including Kalamazoo, Portage and Mattawan . 1. Sales Volume Is Expected to Jump The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)  forecasts a 14% increase in existing-home sales in 2026 ,