|
Date: Jan. 24, 2009
Tags: None
Well, I'm very embarrassed  to admit that I've neglected blogging since September! But I looked at my most recent submission and sure enough, it was about Indianhead buying Blackjack and Powderhorn. Anyone in the local area knows that Indianhead backed away from the deal when a lawsuit was started by several prospective Powderhorn purchasers who evidently had an agreement in place before the Indianhead proposal came along. There haven't been any new articles in the paper about the sale lately, but I'll post more as I learn more.
On a personal note, I purchased a rental home in Ramsay (in October) with my IRA funds and I will post a separate blog in the next week or so explaining that whole process. I bought the house, did a major addition to it and started renting it out right before Christmas. It was quite the project and as I said, I'll fill you in more soon.
I also acted as a "foster mom" to a shelter dog and her 5 puppies this fall! In between running around with the rental home project, I cared for this "family" for 8 weeks and fell in love with all the puppies. Fortunately for me, my 14 yr old terrier, Gus, decided he wanted nothing to do with any puppies and so after being tempted to keep one of them, I let them all be adopted!
Business-wise, I referred a number of people to some of the other agents at Snow Country during those couple of super busy months. So it's only been since Christmas that I've gotten back into the full swing of real estate and the year has started out with a blast! Between showing commercial properties, searching for foreclosure properties for an out-of-area buyer, trying to find someone a decent home with a contract for deed possibility, getting sudden interest in a bar/restaurant I have listed and preparing contracts, photos and marketing for two new listings, I have definitely plunged right back into the business!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
 Indianhead Mountain Resort has just issued a major press release regarding their intention to purchase Powderhorn and Blackjack Ski Resorts!!!!
Letters of intent have been executed for the merger of Indianhead, Big Powderhorn and Blackjack Ski Resorts.
The letters of intent are for the owner of Indianhead to acquire the assets of nearby Big Powderhorn and Blackjack ski resorts, a combination that would combine three of the best and most well known ski resorts in the upper Midwest into a single resort. "We are extrememly excited about the opportunity to operate these resorts to the best advantage as a single business, and tailoring our offerings to produce the best possible ski experience to Midwest skiers," said Barry Bolich, General Manager of Indianhead.
The proposed transactions are subject to completion of due diligence and definitive agreements and are targeted to close prior to year end. The purchase price and terms are not being disclosed at this time.
What does this mean for the area? Well, there are no guarantees that this deal is a done deal; there are many obstacles to get past before we can all jump up and down in excitement. But as I see it, if it becomes a reality, there will be one set of management controlling all 3 hills so we should see consistency in services offered at each hill, improvements in customer service, and upgrades to facilities. Costs can be cut by sharing of equipment; there will be less expense of management level salaries and advertising/marketing dollars will be channeled more effectively to bring tourists to the area. Seems like a win-win for everyone involved!
I'll keep you posted as more news becomes available.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
The first thing that grabbed my attention this morning on my MSN home page (and unfortunately, before a cup of coffee) was the headline Deal breaker 6 signs of a crummy real estate agent. Turns out I agreed with 5 of the 6, but just can't go along wholeheartedly with #4:
4. Part-time gig. Just because a real-estate agent has a license doesn't mean it's his or her full-time job. And while some part-time agents are certainly capable, "when you put food on the table for your family selling real estate, you approach things differently," says Mike Sannes of Keller Williams-Big Bear Real Estate in Big Bear Lake, Calif. "If your real-estate agent is actually a waiter, waitress or [another profession], then you are probably not going to be happy with where their priorities are."
The author acknowledges that some part-timers can be capable, but pretty much lumps the majority together as not having their priorities in order. Priorities is the key word for me. I am a part-time agent and the top priority in my real estate business is to not take on more business than I can handle comfortably, so that I can give each client full value of my time.
I do have the luxury of an established software support business that I handle strictly over the phone and internet. I'm on call 40 hrs per week, but most projects are scheduled so I can block out my time accordingly. The "hotline" calls generally last no more than 15 minutes; many days I get no calls. So this business gave me the opportunity to find something new to do that I find interesting and satisfying - real estate fit the bill and offered self control over hours spent working.
I have 9 listings right now; 4 of them are vacant land so they often "get shown" without me ever knowing about it. I'm actively working with 4 buyers, but they're all from out of the area, so when they plan to look at places, I'm warned well in advance for scheduling. I have a good number of clients/customers getting automatic notifications from my MLS database when listings pop up meeting their criteria. Most of my clients are aware of my other business; I usually mention it sometime in getting to know one another process. So I have a part-time income from part-time hours and that's just fine for now. My clients are pretty happy, based on the feedback and referrals I've gotten!
The author of the article claims an agent approaches business differently when "putting food on the table." Perhaps so, but the question that popped into my mind when I first read it was what kind of service is provided to clients if an agent is worried about putting food on the table? As a buyer or seller, do I get a feeling of panic from my agent, a sense of worry over the commission, the impression of being pushed to make a decision to "settle?" If I am that buyer or seller, then I'd choose to have a part-time agent dedicated to helping only a few clients than a full-time agent scrambing to to make ends meet.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
 Snow Country Real Estate proving 2008 a better year than 2007!
A quick look at the statistical reporting the WUPMLS provides us shows that Snow Country Real Estate has sold $3.5 million, keeping us 3rd in sales volume within our board. It's a big increase over $2.3 million in sales at this time last year. We still have 3 agents in the Top 10 Producers list too!
All Western UP offices combined show $20.3 million in sales with average sales amount of $65,000 - compare that to last year sales of $16.7 million and an average amount of $60,000.
Who says the real estate market is down?! In Gogebic County and Hurley, WI we're selling more and the average unit price is up. Not to say some properties aren't having to be marked down in our neighborhoods, but well-maintained homes are holding their own. We're off to a good start in the 2nd half of 2008.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
Just a quick Blog to let you know I'm taking a class regarding Blogging! I'm a real estate agent with a "techie" background so anything I can do to reach more out-of-town buyers via the internet the more I'm interested in learning about it.
I've done simple web site development for a number of years and try to use all the (free) tricks available to make sure my web site gets decent placement in the search engines and adding a blog is one way to do that. I started this blog last winter, mostly writing about infrastructure improvements in Ironwood and about Snow Country Real Estate and the "state of real estate" right now in the Upper Peninsula. I've kept it pretty impersonal, only did one personal blog about my frozen pipes in January.
The class I'm taking (4 weeks down and 4 to go) offers a lot of helpful hints on creating a blog, making it interesting, finding your "writing voice" and gearing it towards your readers. Hopefully, by the time the course is done, I'll be starting to write more entertaining information about Ironwood, Hurley and the surrounding area. My goal is to provide as much info as possible to people looking to retire here, relocate, or buy a vacation place, but I also want my blog to be a quick resource for local people to use to get info about area activities or web links and most certainly, for real estate needs!
|
|
Comments (2) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
 Half of 2008 is gone already - - - Snow Country Real Estate is #2 in sales out of the 8 agencies in our area! Total sales are just under $18 million, well above the $14 million mark of 2007.
Most out of town buyers I receive calls from mention how bad the real estate market is whereever they live and assume the same up in this area. I always have to tell them that we never experienced the "big bubble" like so much of the country and so we never got hit with the "bubble burst" either. The sales numbers do support my comments.
2008 has been a good year for not only the company, but individual agents. We have 5 agents in the top 20 producers (3 in the top 10), a definite improvement over last year. I have a closing scheduled for later in July and another couple of buyers who are close to making decisions, plus a few others who are just starting to look, so I hope to improve my own standing dramatically by the end of the year!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
City of Ironwood community development director, Dan Peterson, says the city is trying to determine how many business owners are interested in participating in Phase III of the facade improvement program before applying for the grant. Phase I and II are still in progress, although Phase I projects must be complete by the end of 2008. Four businesses out of twenty-one original applicants have been finished so far; however, a number of businesses dropped out of the program. There has been some trouble with bids in Phase I and II because of the requirement of business owners to receive two bids.
The city held an informational meeting last week, attended by five business owners. The MHSDA grant covers half the improvement costs with the owners matching their grant. In Phase III, Peterson says the plan is to award only one area contractor all projects on a single bid and therefore, streamline the bidding and construction process.
In this phase Ironwood is eligible to apply for up to $200,000 with the required owner's match of 50%. Grant money may be used for such things as painting, awnings, windows, and lighting.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
A recent survey of Ironwood citizens found that more walking trails were a top recreational concern. The City of Ironwood Recreation Committee has presented a proposal for a walking trail system to the City Planning Commission which will hopefully be approved as soon as possible.
 The trail will run from Riverside Cemetery, hugging the Montreal River as much as possible, out to Norrie Park on the south end of town. Deer trails can be followed in some areas, just brushed and expanded to about 30". The trail won't be blacktopped and motor vehicles will not be allowed to use the trail.
The plan is to start the project in the cemetery which will contain a loop that is 1.5 miles long. The second phase would extend the trail from the cemetery to Norrie Park and be 4.5 miles long. Much of that trail will follow along the old railroad beds with a short stretch of sidewalk along Hemlock St. It will go through the Scott St. neighborhood and the Caves area.
Expenses borne by the city will only be liability insurance, as signs have been donated and manpower to clear and brush trails will be on a volunteer basis. The visitors center on U.S. 2 will provide parking for people using the trail.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
Snow Country Real Estate still ahead of 2007 sales!
Reports from the Western Upper Peninsula MLS Board show total sales dollars for this year in our region is over $10.6 million with SCRE 3rd in sales volume. The region, as a whole, is ahead of 2007 by $3.1 million!
We have 3 agents in the firm in the TOP 10....and the file cabinet in the office which contains "to be closed" transactions is still looking very full.
 Spring is generally the season when people get serious about selling or buying, so I've talked to quite a number of people in the past month. The comment I hear most often is "the real estate market is really down" and fortunately, I've been able to honestly answer that our local market is stable and rising. I always give specific examples of what I'm working on or have just closed and also mention what's going on with the other agents in my office. Everyone reacts with surprise to that info, but are usually pleased. Real estate may be bad news in the national media, but "real estate is local" and the Ironwood, MI and Hurley, WI area is definitely holding its own!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
Snow Country Real Estate
continues with positive sales growth through the end of March!
According to the Western Upper Peninsula MLS Board statistics the total sales dollars for this year in our region is over $8.6 million with SCRE contributing almost 16% of those sales. As a region, we stand at almost double over the same time period in 2007, which was $4.5 million!
Individual agents in our firm are in positions 5, 6, 7, 12 and 21 in sales volume! We've had several closings in April and a number of others scheduled for later in the month and early May.
At our last staff meeting we discussed the general economy of the area (improving), the benefits of Walmart moving into town (more real estate transactions and more jobs available), and the affect gas prices will have our tourism industry (positive, because people still take vacations, but will avoid air travel and long-distance trips so we'll get more regional visitors). All of this bodes well for real estate sales in Ironwood, Bessemer, Hurley and surrounding areas to keep going at a steady pace.
Another phenomenon of the area is the steady influx of retirees. The Western UP is still a place to buy a relatively inexpensive home in a nice, safe community. Many of these buyers are selling homes in metropolitan areas, buying a home here and then planning to travel to Florida, Texas, or Arizona for a month to two months during our winter months. They see this as living the best of all worlds. Many of these people are young retirees, still wanting to work part-time. A very good example is of a couple I sold a home to this winter; she plans to work a few hours per week for an in-home health services company. It's great to welcome these new folks to our community and have them contribute to our neighborhoods and businesses.
|
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
I thought the snow and trail condition reports from the Western U.P. Convention and Visitors Bureau were done for the year, but it's an APRIL FOOL on all of us here in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan!
LATEST SNOW AND WEATHER:
Yes! Yes! And Yes! Yes, we got the snow...best guess is anywhere from about a foot to a foot and a half or so across Big Snow Country...maybe more in the higher places. I know I blasted through a four foot bank after the plow came in Bessemer...so let's go with LOTS! Yes, our trails are open and the season has been extended until next Sunday, April 6th. And Yes, groomers will be out. Take a look at the Web Cams to see for yourself-link is on our home page at westernup.info
CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS:
ONE MORE TIME, TIME JUST GOT BETTER-WAY BETTER! ONE MORE WEEK OF RIDING COULD BE BEST OF SEASON.
Most trails were solid, flat and in really good shape before this snow, so this is going be riding offering up some big time fun. How often can you ride in a sweatshirt?...with temps in the mid-40's? On lots of snow?
Be aware you may into some icy areas and depending when you come you could run into a few wet places-ride accordingly...and as always slow down on corners. If you do want that ONE MORE TIME...it's now. We recommend you STAY OFF ANY LAKES... Just too iffy at this time of year...besides we have miles of trails in great shape. So don't miss this last chance-come on up-have fun-be safe!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
Ironwood, MI has continued its rehabilitation progress with city residents spending almost $2.5 million dollars on home improvements, such as new siding, roofing and window replacements in the past year. Just driving around town will show you a number of local contractor trucks parked in driveways and working on projects. The fix-it/remodeling season is really just getting started, so there should be a lot more ladders, saws and lumber seen in the near future!
The newspaper reports that three residents removed dilapidated structures and the city tore down three more as part of a blight eradication program. Two more homes should be removed once the condemnation process is complete. The city conducted 453 home inspections last year, but would like to see more business inspections happen.
On the business front, Josephson Nursing Home is set to expand; their site plan was approved by the Ironwood City Planning Commission on March 26th. The building will increase from 18000 sq ft to 23000 sq ft and will be able to increase the number of residents from 47 to 67 people.
Progress is also being made on the businesses that were awarded money as part of the Façade Grant program. Pizza King Joe’s, Coleman Engineering, North Light Photography and Mattson’s TV & Appliance are all involved in Phase I with work completed or almost completed. Each business must match the amount they’ve been granted for the building improvements.
The state has strict rules for the bid process and that has considerably slowed down the process of starting the next phase. Two bids are required and there can be only one contractor per project, so it’s hard for some of our smaller, local contractors to get involved. They can work as sub-contractors in their specialty, but they need to work under whoever is selected as the general contractor. The city is working hard to get bids in and get them awarded so work can be done this summer. Here’s looking forward to many more great looking businesses in downtown Ironwood!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
(This report courtesy of the Western U.P. Convention and Visitors Bureau at http://www.westernup.com)
CURRENT SNOW DEPTHS: 18 inches
LATEST SNOW AND WEATHER: In a word...PERFECT! Anywhere from 4" of fresh heavy snow on the ground at Ironwood....7" at Bessemer....the bare cross-streets are covered again...at least for now....Temps for the week are forecasted to be in the mid-30's daytime and teens at night.
If you can get away for a trip - hurry on up....we're getting down to "One More Time, Time."
CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS: We are being told by riders BIG SNOW COUNTRY TRAILS are the best they've been in years. We're not going to give specific  trails this time because I know all the groomers from all the clubs are going to be out with the fresh snow. And I know it's going to make for some great riding...especially this late in the season. Be aware some trails will have icy areas and you may run into a few wet places-ride accordingly...and as always slow down on corners.
Overall, I think you'll be surprised at the condition of our trails. The season ends officially March 31st, so don't pass up this chance to get out and ENJOY!
As always, check with your lodging facility on ice depth and conditions before venturing out on any Lake, especially now. Come on up-have fun-be safe!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
WESTERN U.P. SNOWMOBILE REPORT
March 14, 2008
CURRENT SNOW DEPTHS: 18
LATEST SNOW AND WEATHER:
while daytime temps are mild, nighttime temps in the teens firm things up nicely, thank you very much. Even a few flakes falling now and then. Conditions this season have really been amazing, according to riders across the big snow country trail system. However, it's mid-March folks, and we're getting down to "One More Time, Time."
CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS:
ON ALL BIG SNOW COUNTRY TRAILS: some trails will have icy areas...slow down especially on the corners.
From the Gogebic Range Trail Authority: groomers out on all trails every day or night-all are good to very good.
From Lake Gogebic: Grooming daily-trails in good to very good condition but again, you will find some icy areas-watch for a few bare spots.
Silver City: Low traffic has kept trails in great shape with the exception of in and out of Silver City. #1 from the intersection of 12 to Lake of the Clouds good with that exception...a few spots of water from 11 to the ski hill on 1...11 from the head of 11N is good to very good.
Ontonagon trails are groomed with good coverage and in good to very good condition.
Watersmeet trails groomed and they're reporting good to very good shape.
Overall, I think you'll be surprised at the condition of our trails. While the season ends officially March 31st, I wouldn't pass up this chance to get out and ENJOY!
As always, check with your lodging facility on ice depth and conditions before venturing out on any Lake, especially now.
Come on up-have fun-be safe!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
A Little Brag
I received the ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) designation on March 11, 2008 and now join my Broker, Arlene Schneller and fellow agent, Karen Gullan as the 3rd agent in our Snow Country Real Estate office to earn the ABR designation. I took the 2 day course in December 2006 which also required an elective course to accompany it. Because my background was in software and computer technology, I took the e-PRO course and completed that in July 2007. Additional requirements for ABR were to complete 5 transactions where I acted as a Buyer Representative. My 5th transaction just closed on March 5th and I had the paperwork all ready to send in!
What is a Buyer Representative?
Purchasing real estate is a complex and major transaction with many details to be handled. Depending on state laws and the business arrangement you have with a licensed real estate agent, that agent may actually be negotiating for the seller, not you the buyer. The best way to be certain that an agent is working in your best interests is by signing a buyer representation agreement with an agent. Snow Country Real Estate practices designated agency; whereby, you can choose to be represented by your own agent not necessarily the agent who has the listing contract on a property you may be interested in.
The buyer's representative works for, and owes fiduciary responsibilities to the buyer and has the buyer's best interests in mind throughout the entire process. An ABR will:
-
Evaluate the needs and wants of the buyer and locate properties that fit those specification.
-
Assist the buyer in determining the amount they can afford and show properties in that price range.
-
Assist in viewing properties - accompany the buyer on showings or preview properties to be sure it meets the specified needs and wants.
-
Research selected properties to identify any problems or issues to help the buyer make an informed decision prior to making an offer to purchase.
-
Advise the buyer on structuring an appropriate offer to purchase the selected property.
-
Present the offer to the Seller's Agent and the Seller on the Buyer's behalf.
-
Negotiate on behalf of the buyer to help obtain the identified property - keeping the buyer's best interests in mind.
-
Assist in securing appropriate financing for the property.
-
Provide a list of potential qualified vendors (movers, attorneys, home inspectors, plumbers, etc.) if any of those services are needed.
-
Most importantly, fully represent the buyer throughout the entire real estate transaction.
Why you should use an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR)
Why should you look for the ABR designation before looking for a home? These three letters after a REALTOR's name tell you that you will be working with buyer representative who is committed to your best interests. The ABR Designation is awarded to those REALTORS who have met the specific educational and experiential criteria needed to provide the high level quality service required by REBAC (Real Estate BUYER'S AGENT Council).
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
We've only passed the 2nd month of 2008 and Snow Country Real Estate is up over 30% in sales during the 1st quarter of 2007! Our average per transaction is $119000 for '08 vs. $46000 for '07.
On top of that encouraging news, 4 out of our 6 agents are in the Top 10 for sales volume. Sad to say that I'm not one of those 4, but I do have several transactions "in the works" and I plan to join the ranks of my top producing associates as soon as possible!
A very positive piece of real estate news is that our entire Western Upper Peninsula MLS board has sold over $6 million dollars in the first 2 months of the year. Last year, the first 2 months saw only $2.5 million in sales. Some of the large increase can be attributed to commercial sales this year, which just means more jobs in our area and that brings the potential for more residential sales.
In talking to the various out of town buyers I've worked with in the past several months and in reading lots of publications and blogs, I understand that real estate does seem to be depressed in many areas of the country. However, Gogebic County, MI and Iron County, WI do seem to be holding their own, if not outright picking up speed.
I plan to analyze our sales statistics - for our company and for our entire board - on a monthly basis and will post what I find early each month.
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
From the Western UP Convention & Visitor Center (http://www.westernup.com)
CURRENT SNOW DEPTHS: 19 inches
LATEST SNOW AND WEATHER: Forecast looking good with cold nights and mild days. We have a little more fresh snow, super bases, great grooming and the entire western U.P. Trail System is just about as good as it gets. If you're planning one trip, don't hesitate to head on up.
CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS: Nothing has really changed...Trails across the whole area overall are Good to Very Good to Excellent. All depends when and where you choose to ride. They really are in primo condition.
From the Gogebic Range Trail Authority: All groomers out on all trails; trail 2 is freshly groomed and good to very good condition. The rest of the trails are in very good condition.
From Lake Gogebic: All groomers out on the entire system everyday and conditions reported very good.
Silver City: Plenty of new snow has trails in very good condition.
Ontonagon: tells us with more fresh snow trails are groomed and in very good condition.
Watersmeet: has all trails in great shape and trails are in very good condition.
Bruce Crossing: Trails good to very good; watch for icy corners.
BE AWARE: Tickets are being issued for illegal behavior and sleds, including trespassing, not stopping at stop signs, riding illegal railroad grades and loud or altered exhausts. Just obey the laws and you'll be fine. As always, check with your lodging facility on ice depth and conditions before venturing out on any Lake. Big Snow Country trails are the best they've been in years- Don't miss out these outstanding conditions...Come on up-have fun-be safe!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
On February 14th, Ironwood city officials received a check for $130,718 for Phase II of Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm's façade improvement initiative to help fix up downtown areas. To briefly recap from a blog a week or so ago: Nine building will be refurbished. The city expects to award bids on all the projects in Phase I and II later in February and two projects have been completed to date.
To continue with positive downtown Ironwood news, make a note to check out an article in the Ironwood Daily Globe Progress Edition scheduled for publication on February 28th. Deb Gotham, one of the many hard working and dedicated individuals involved with the Historic Ironwood Theatre has written the article.
The Theatre operates as an independent, non-profit organization, which leases the building from the City of Ironwood. It receives no local tax for its support, so assumes all operating and maintenance costs. This is funded by ticket sales, user fees, a number of fundraising events,  local business support and a grant given by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affiairs.
The theater was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1985, and in 1986 the Downtown Ironwood Development Authority (DIDA) was awarded a grant by the State of Michigan to begin an extensive renovation process to the Theatre. Completed renovations include the seats in the main auditorium and balcony, carpeting, restoration of the ceiling mural, wall and beam decorations. There is also a new stage floor, heating and state of the art lighting and sound systems.
Two other important "restorations" within the Theatre is of the Barton Organ and the  Proscenium Mural, both pictured here. Read more about both these beautiful features of the Ironwood Theatre and see more and larger photos of the organ, mural and all the renovation process at www.IronwoodTheatre.net/theatre_history.html.
….and in the spirit of full disclosure: the author of this Blog also maintains the theatre's web site!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
If you're planning a trip to Ironwood or Hurley over the long President's Day weekend here is the weather and trail conditions report thanks to the Western U.P. Convention and Visitors Bureau.
LATEST SNOW AND WEATHER: The snow on the ground at the Ironwood measuring station is now officially 15"...Forecast normal and President's weekend looks like a super time to come play. CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS: Snow, Cold and Lighter than usual traffic has the trails in great shape. From the Gogebic Range Trail Authority: All groomers out - trail 2 freshly groomed and good-rest of system said to have good snow and in real good shape.
From Lake Gogebic: All groomers out on the entire system and conditions reported good to very good. Heads up! You MUST follow the rules if you don't want a ticket. This means STOP at Stop Signs-rolling stops do not count. Stop. Tickets are being issued. Also-it is illegal to ride active railroad grades-ditto about the tickets. Silver City: Plenty of new snow has trails in very good condition. Trail 1 from White Pine to Silver City and to the Ski Hill still have a few icy patches under the snow. Ontonagon tells us trails are groomed and in good to very good condition. Watersmeet has all trails in great shape and trails are in very good condition. We are continually hearing our Big Snow Country trails are the best they've been in years- PLEASE NOTE: As always, you need to check with your lodging facility on ice depth and conditions before venturing out on any Lake. Don't miss out the outstanding conditions...Come on up-have fun-be safe!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
We’ve all heard the old adage of “real estate is all about location, location, location” right? Well, twice in the past 2 weeks, real estate became all about location to me, in a very personal way! The outside walls to both bathrooms in my house face west and I learned the hard way about frozen pipes.
On January 29th, Ironwood and Hurley had sub-zero temperatures with a wind chill of -52 (severe NW winds); I woke up to a non-functioning sink in my upstairs bath. A couple hours later I was dealing with a burst pipe and water pouring into a downstairs bedroom closet, down through the heat ducts and a rainfall in my basement! After a minute of running around the house in a panic, I thought to shut off the main water valve into the house and the rainfall stopped shortly afterwards.
Once the contractor I generally use for home improvement and fixits showed up, he gave me the bad news that I don’t have any way to access my plumbing. So we started by sawing a hole in my bedroom wall, which backs up to the bathroom sink and found out that the pipes we could reach there were fine, but the rest of the pipes were underneath the bathroom floor. Fortunately, we could cut a hole in the downstairs bedroom closet and he got to the burst pipe to make the fix. He filled the cavity with spray foam insulation and made access panels for the holes in the walls. I had to wash down walls and windows from all the super fine plaster dust that happened from cutting and got the carpets cleaned too.
On February 9th, Ironwood again had sub-zero weather with massive NW winds and a wind chill of more than -40. I woke up around 2:30 am, heard the wind and thought perhaps I should turn on the bathroom sink faucet, just to make sure. Oops, already frozen. I just shut off the main valve and went back to bed. Thankfully, my contractor will work on Sundays and he was able to open the access panel, use a hair dryer to thaw the pipe and get my water running again.
And why did the pipes freeze? This is my 3rd winter in the house and we’ve had weather like this before. Best we can figure out is that I have an exhaust fan mounted on the upper part of the wall in my downstairs bathroom and when the wind hit in the right direction it swirled through that and up a couple of feet to the pipes upstairs. And based on how my walls feel to the touch, it’s pretty obvious I don’t have the best insulation between the walls and the siding on the house!
We thought the foam insulation he added would work and it turned out the cavity he had filled was OK, but the cold air moved into another cavity between the upstairs floor and downstairs ceiling. So for a temporary fix (it being a Sunday), we stuffed all the openings with several of my dog’s kennel pads and I’ll leave the faucet running very slowly. Once the weather warms up enough (hopefully in the next couple of days) he’ll take a look at creating some sort of cover for the exhaust vent on the outside of the house and will insulate further into pipes.
Moral of this story? If you live here already, own a recreational property, or are looking at moving to the “great up north” make sure you know where your main water valve is; make sure you know how to turn off the water to sinks and toilets and that the handles aren’t so rusted/corroded that you can’t; think about where your pipes are located – inside walls or outside walls and can you access them in a hurry; find out how much insulation is in your house; check how much draft you get from your windows – basement windows too; and most importantly, make sure you’ve paid the premium on your home owners’ insurance policy!
|
|
Comments (0) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
|
|
|
RSS Blog Feed