Buying a luxury home usually means spending well into the millions – especially in coastal hot spots. But did you know there are still a handful of U.S. metro areas where high-end living comes with a six-figure price tag instead of seven? It’s true: in a market where the national median luxury home price is about $1.35 million, a select few cities offer “luxury for less”. These places – many of them in the Midwest – let buyers snag historic mansions, spacious estates, or upscale condos for under $1 million. Just five years ago, such deals were common in 30 big metros, but as of 2025 only seven major cities remain in that category.

What are these rare affordable luxe locales? Think Rust Belt charm and Sunbelt warmth. As one real estate economist notes,…

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When living in Metro Detroit, finding family-friendly dining spots that offer both delicious meals and a relaxed atmosphere can make all the difference for a successful outing. Whether you’re moving to Metro Detroit or are already a local, discovering the best kid-friendly patios in the area is essential for enjoying great food in a welcoming environment. From waterfront views to vibrant city skylines, these patios provide the perfect setting for families to unwind while savoring a variety of menu options that cater to both adults and kids alike. With ample space for children to enjoy and menus that offer something for every taste, these patios are a must-try for any family looking to enjoy a meal out.

Explore 175 outdoor dining spots across Metro…

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From springtime lambs to hayrides in the fall, there’s no shortage of interactive animal adventures for families living in Metro Detroit—or those moving to Metro Detroit and seeking the region’s most charming family-friendly experiences. These hands-on farms blend outdoor fun, gentle animals, and educational encounters, giving kids the opportunity to connect with nature and agriculture right in their own backyard. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or looking for seasonal staples like pony rides and petting zoos, these destinations deliver immersive farm visits that delight all ages.

Here are 16 must-visit farms across Metro Detroit and nearby areas where children can feed goats, bottle calves, ride ponies, and make unforgettable memories.

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Looking for a fun family outing or a relaxing day in the great outdoors? Metro Detroit's U-pick farms offer an exciting opportunity to harvest fresh, local produce while enjoying the beauty of Michigan’s countryside. Whether you’re after sweet strawberries in early summer or crisp apples in the fall, these farms provide an authentic farm-to-table experience that you won’t want to miss. Grab your baskets, bring the family, and get ready to make some delicious memories!

Here’s your guide to the best U-pick farms in Metro Detroit—each offering a unique experience with everything from berries to pumpkins. Whether you're new to U-pick or a seasoned pro, you'll find the perfect farm for your next outing.

If you’re looking for more adventures in the area,…

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Troy, Michigan – For years, anyone driving past Big Beaver Road and Coolidge Highway could see the hulking shell of the former Kmart headquarters, a local landmark left empty since 2006. This 40-acre site, once nicknamed “Fort Kresge” for its fortress-like design, sat as a reminder of Troy’s retail history and its dormant potential. Now, a dramatic transformation is underway. The Troy City Council has greenlit an ambitious redevelopment dubbed Somerset West, and a $40 million philanthropic gift from a prominent local family is jump-starting a state-of-the-art University of Michigan Health center on the property. This mix of public-private momentum has residents buzzing – and with good reason. The project promises to turn an empty office complex into a…

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If you're living in Metro Detroit or even just moving to Metro Detroit, July is one of the best months to dive headfirst into the region’s vibrant summer scene. From massive art fairs and outdoor concerts to fireworks shows and family festivals, Metro Detroit transforms into a celebration of culture, community, and entertainment. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, looking for family-friendly events, or searching for can’t-miss concerts, this month is packed with experiences that highlight the area’s rich diversity and unmistakable summertime energy. With something happening in nearly every corner—from historic celebrations in Clawson and Dearborn to world-class headliners at Little Caesars Arena and Pine Knob—July offers the perfect mix of…

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The Motor City is trading cars for clubs this week as the 2025 Rocket Classic returns to historic Detroit Golf Club. This annual PGA Tour stop has quickly become a beloved summer tradition in Metro Detroit, drawing some of the world’s best golfers – and plenty of local fanfare – to the city’s north side. With a star-studded field, family-friendly events, and a historic course on the verge of a major facelift, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. The stage is set for four days of birdies, community spirit, and pure Detroit pride.

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The Venue: Historic Detroit Golf Club and Its “Old-School” Charm

Founded in 1899, Detroit Golf Club (DGC) boasts two 18-hole courses designed by legendary architect…

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Picture this: a respected Metro Detroit doctor finishes a long hospital shift, changes out of scrubs, and then heads straight to a construction site meeting about a new downtown development. It might sound like an unusual career twist, but it’s a trend gaining traction around Metro Detroit. A growing number of physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals are swapping stethoscopes for blueprints and becoming key players in Metro Detroit’s urban transformation. These unlikely developers are bringing a fresh perspective to real estate – one rooted in problem-solving, community care, and a deep personal investment in the region’s future.

A Trend Emerges: Doctors Turn Developers in Metro Detroit

Metro Detroit’s development scene is no…

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For first-time homebuyers, Michigan is a rare gem – one of the few places in America where owning a home still feels within reach on a modest income. From Detroit’s urban revival to the charming small towns by the Great Lakes, the Mitten State offers an array of entry points for buyers on a budget. But with home prices and interest rates rising nationwide, how affordable is buying a starter home in Michigan today? This article explores why Michigan stands out for affordable starter homes, which cities offer the best deals (and which are tougher), and what new buyers should know as they embark on the journey to homeownership in Metro Detroit and beyond.

Michigan Is an Affordable Haven for First-Time Buyers

Michigan has emerged as one of the most…

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Summer in Metro Detroit means Tigers games, Belle Isle picnics, and of course—food trucks on just about every corner. Whether you're new to the area or born and raised in the Mitten, there's something about grabbing a meal from a truck that just feels right. It's quick, flavorful, often locally owned, and gives you a literal taste of the community.

As someone who's spent decades walking families through life-changing real estate decisions, I always tell my clients: explore the neighborhoods by their food. Food trucks are a great place to start. Below, you'll find my curated list of the best food trucks in Metro Detroit this summer, each one vetted not just for flavor, but for its local roots, unique story, and real community impact.

Want to catch…

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