Mackinac Island has long been a go-to summer getaway for Metro Detroit families and savvy locals. As soon as the weather warms up, many Detroiters make the trek up I-75, hop on a Shepler’s Ferry, and step back in time onto Mackinac’s car-free streets. Between the famous fudge shops, historic Fort Mackinac, and breezy bike trails, the island holds a special place in southeast Michigan’s heart. This summer, there’s one more reason to visit Mackinac Island – a fresh new adventure on the water that’s generating buzz among return visitors and first-timers alike.

Sip N' Sail Cruises, Facebook

Sip n’ Sail Cruises: Sightseeing with a Twist

One of the island’s most popular attractions in recent years has been Sip n’ Sail Cruises, which combines…

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Detroit’s beloved Eastern Market is buzzing with anticipation as Marrow Detroit Provisions prepares to open a game-changing new location in the heart of the historic food district. Marrow – the award-winning restaurant and butcher shop known for its farm-to-table ethos – is converting a 14,000-square-foot former meat facility on Riopelle Street into a hub of sustainable, locally sourced food​. This ambitious project will bring a USDA-inspected meat processing facility, restaurant, butcher shop, and bar under one roof, complete with a spacious outdoor seating area for those sunny Michigan days.

In true Detroit fashion, the groundbreaking was a community affair. On a brisk Tuesday morning in March, Mayor Mike Duggan and Eastern Market CEO Dan Carmody…

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Imagine strolling along a Lake Michigan beach town and discovering that under the sand lies an entire lost town. It sounds like a Michigan legend, but it’s true – the ghost town of Singapore, Michigan once stood near modern-day Saugatuck and was literally buried by shifting dunes​. This “Michigan’s Pompeii” thrived in the 19th century as a lumber boomtown before nature reclaimed it. Today, its fascinating story lives on in local lore and landmarks. As a proud Michigan native and real estate expert, I’m excited to share the tale of Singapore’s rise, fall, and the enduring legacy you can still experience when visiting Saugatuck. From historic anecdotes to travel tips, let’s uncover how this Lake Michigan ghost town came to be buried beneath the sand – and…

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Selling your Novi home involves making smart choices about where to invest your time and money before listing. In a competitive market, it may feel like you need to tackle every possible repair or upgrade to impress buyers. The reality? Not everything needs fixing – and some big projects won’t pay off when you sell. This guide explores the 2024–2025 Novi housing market trends, highlights common home improvements that don’t deliver a strong ROI, and shares expert insights from The Perna Team on what not to spend money on before you sell. Follow these tips to prioritize your prep work and save thousands, all while positioning your home to attract Novi buyers who appreciate value and potential.

Novi’s 2024–2025 Housing Market at a Glance

Before…

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One of Metro Detroit’s most storied hotels just got a new lease on life. The Dearborn Inn – a historic hotel originally built by Henry Ford in 1931 – has reopened after a two-year restoration that beautifully blends its 1930s charm with modern luxury​. Locals and history buffs are buzzing about the stunning transformation of this Henry Ford hotel, which now shines as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. The nearly century-old Dearborn landmark is welcoming guests once again, complete with new dining experiences, family-friendly touches, and a fresh connection to the community.

Dearborn Inn, Autograph Collection, Facebook

A Henry Ford Legacy: The Dearborn Inn’s Storied Past

Founded by automotive icon Henry Ford and designed by renowned…

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Detroit’s dining scene continues to evolve with fresh energy this spring, offering a slate of exciting culinary newcomers that are redefining where — and how — the city eats. Whether you’ve been living in Metro Detroit for years or are just moving to Metro Detroit and looking to get a taste of what the city has to offer, April’s newest restaurant openings promise innovative flavors, stylish atmospheres, and concepts rooted in both cultural heritage and modern creativity. From casual daytime cafés to elevated evening destinations, these new spots reflect the city’s continued rise as a national food destination, where every meal is an invitation to explore Detroit’s rich diversity and dynamic spirit.

Ostrea Detroit, Facebook

Ostrea Seafood

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Owning a home in Metro Detroit is an exciting milestone – but it comes with a few surprises that even lifelong renters might not see coming. As Metro Detroit homeowners, we quickly learn there’s more to that charming brick ranch or classic Royal Oak bungalow than the listing let on. From hidden costs to unexpected joys, homeownership here is an adventure. In true neighborly fashion, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it’s really like to own a home in the Motor City suburbs and beyond. Here are 13 surprising truths (drawn from local experience) about owning a home in Metro Detroit – consider this your friendly heads-up from one neighbor to another.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, some of these will make you nod in…

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Selling your home FSBO (For Sale By Owner) in Downtown Plymouth can be enticing – after all, Plymouth’s housing market has been strong lately, and skipping agent commissions sounds like big savings. But before you stick a “For Sale” sign in the yard, it’s important to understand the local market trends, the FSBO process, and the challenges that come with going it alone. In this guide, we’ll dive into 2024–2025 Downtown Plymouth home values (median prices, days on market, FSBO success rates), walk through the FSBO sale step-by-step, compare doing it yourself vs. hiring an agent (with insight into The Perna Team’s advantages), and even look at who’s buying in Downtown Plymouth these days. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect and how to…

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Introduction: If you’ve been following the Metro Detroit real estate market, you might be scratching your head at the latest news. In March, home sales across Metro Detroit fell by about 14% compared to a year ago. Fewer people are buying homes right now – yet paradoxically, home prices are still rising. The median sale price in the region jumped roughly 6% year-over-year in March (to about $323,950)​. What’s going on here? In this article, we’ll break down the trends behind the numbers, from Detroit housing trends in each county to the factors driving prices up. We’ll also share some neighborly advice for homebuyers and sellers navigating these economic shifts (like rising interest rates and inflation). By the end, you’ll understand why prices keep…

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Whether you’ve been living in Metro Detroit for years or are just now moving to Metro Detroit, one thing is certain—this city knows how to raise a glass. From expertly crafted cocktails served in hidden speakeasies to lively rooftop lounges, European-style wine bars, and neighborhood hangouts steeped in history, Detroit offers a dynamic bar scene as diverse as the people who call it home. Whether you're in search of seasonal craft cocktails, rare global wines, or a perfectly poured pint while catching the game, the Motor City delivers memorable drinking experiences on every corner. This guide to Detroit’s best bars will help you uncover the city’s most celebrated—and surprising—spots to sip, socialize, and savor the moment.

The Congregation, Facebook

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