Muskegon Area Rental Association News

❄️ Winter Weather Reminder: Extreme Cold in Michigan

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:03:10 GMT

With prolonged freezing temperatures impacting the Muskegon area, we want to share a seasonal reminder for both property owners and tenants. These are standard cold-weather precautions many already follow, but extreme conditions are a good time to double-check.

For Property Owners & Managers

Extended cold weather increases the risk of frozen pipes, heating issues, and weather-related maintenance concerns. A quick review can help prevent avoidable damage.

Cold Weather Reminder Checklist:

Confirm all heating systems are functioning properly
Encourage tenants to maintain consistent thermostat settings
Monitor vacant units closely during freezing temperatures
Allow water to drip in vulnerable plumbing areas when appropriate
Open cabinet doors where plumbing is exposed to cold air
Inspect doors and windows for drafts
Respond promptly to cold-related maintenance requests

For Tenants

Extreme cold can affect plumbing, heating systems, and overall comfort. A few simple steps can help protect your home during freezing conditions.

Tenant Cold Weather Reminders:

Keep heat set at a consistent temperature
Do not turn off heat, even if you are away briefly
Allow faucets to drip if advised by management
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
Report any heating, water, or maintenance issues immediately

Staying proactive during extreme winter weather helps protect properties, reduce emergency repairs, and ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable.

Stay safe and warm everyone!

Muskegon Lake Delisted as EPA “Area of Concern” - Why This Matters to Our Members

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:36:12 GMT

Muskegon Lake Delisted as EPA “Area of Concern”
A Landmark Environmental Win for Muskegon

MUSKEGON, MI — In a major milestone for the community and the environment, Muskegon Lake has officially been removed from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) “Areas of Concern” list, marking the successful completion of decades of cleanup and restoration work.

This accomplishment signifies the full resolution of all nine environmental impairments previously identified in the Muskegon Lake watershed, including issues related to water quality, habitat degradation, and loss of recreational value.

The removal from the list represents a remarkable comeback story for Muskegon — once a hub of industrial activity that left behind pollution and ecological damage, and now a revitalized destination for recreation, tourism, and waterfront development.

“This is not just an environmental achievement; it’s a community victory,” said a City of Muskegon spokesperson. “Through the dedication of local residents, environmental groups, and public agencies, Muskegon Lake is now healthier, cleaner, and thriving once again.”

The City of Muskegon, along with partners such as the Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership, West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), has worked tirelessly for decades to restore the lake. Efforts included habitat restoration, sediment cleanup, shoreline improvement, and pollution reduction.

Beyond environmental benefits, the delisting opens new doors for economic and recreational opportunities along Muskegon’s waterfront. Developers and property owners can now invest with greater confidence, knowing that the area’s long-term environmental health is secure. The improvement is also expected to enhance property values and attract more visitors, boaters, and anglers to the region.

The City of Muskegon and local partners plan to continue long-term monitoring and maintenance to ensure the lake remains a clean and vibrant natural resource for future generations.

Why This Matters to Our Members
For the Muskegon Area Rental Association and our members, this achievement underscores the region’s strong growth potential and increasing appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. A cleaner lake and revitalized shoreline mean stronger community pride, higher tenant interest, and continued upward momentum in the local housing and rental market.

Muskegon’s Future Looks Bright
With its renewed waterfront, thriving local economy, and growing reputation as one of Michigan’s most promising lakeshore communities, Muskegon is stepping confidently into a new era. The city’s transformation is not only a testament to environmental recovery—but also a powerful sign of the opportunities that await those who believe in Muskegon’s potential.

Michigan Weather Alert

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:16:09 GMT

Michigan is currently experiencing severe winter conditions due to a polar vortex, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and snow across the state. Wind chills are expected to drop as low as -40°F in some areas, with additional snowfall impacting travel and safety.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, dress in warm layers, and take precautions to prevent frozen pipes and other weather-related issues.

Stay updated with local weather reports and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals in your community.

Please ensure your properties are winter-ready and keep an eye on weather updates to avoid disruptions.

Stay safe everyone! Keep warm and Take Care!

Recent developments in Muskegon, Michigan's rental market

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:53:54 GMT

Recent developments in Muskegon, Michigan's rental market include:

Short-Term Rental Regulations:

In October 2024, the Muskegon City Commission approved an ordinance capping short-term rentals at 4% of housing in each area. This move aims to address concerns about housing shortages and neighborhood impacts.

Source: WOOD TV

Rental Price Trends:

As of January 2025, the median rent in Muskegon is $1,300, reflecting a $200 increase from January 2024. This 18% rise indicates a tightening rental market.

Source: Zillow

These changes highlight the evolving dynamics of Muskegon's rental landscape, with regulatory measures and rising rents influencing both property owners and tenants.

Wishing You a Happy and Prosperous New Year

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 15:30:59 GMT

Dear Members,

As we welcome 2025, We want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued membership and support of the Muskegon Area Rental Association/Lakeshore REIA.

Your trust, involvement, and commitment are the foundation of everything we do, and we are truly honored to serve as your partner in the rental industry.

This past year, your dedication to MARA has empowered us to provide valuable resources, educational opportunities, and advocacy for our members and the community. Together, we’ve built a stronger network and created impactful solutions that elevate the rental business landscape in Muskegon.

Looking ahead, We are excited about what we will achieve together in 2025 and beyond. With your continued support, we aim to bring even greater value to your membership.

Thank you for being an essential part of MARA. Wishing you and your family a joyful, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year. Here’s to another year of growth, success, and collaboration!

Warm regards,

Muskegon Area Rental Association/Lakeshore REIA

Hope Your Christmas is Magical!

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 23:14:51 GMT

Legislative Update

Gary Hall — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:29:04 GMT

The Legislature finished the FY 23/24 budget on June 28 th . This budget is the largest in the state’s history at $81.7 billion dollars. There are several one-time funded projects in the budget which may require further revenue in the upcoming years. There were also several additions to the School Aid budget including raising per pupil funding. The main two budget issues that are important to RPOA-M are the $50 million increase for the Michigan Housing and Community Development Program and the $2 million dollar increase for the State Land Bank Authority. The Michigan Housing and Community Development Program was created to generate more affordable housing and revitalize downtown areas. The majority of those new funds will be going to a grant program for pre-weatherization and home repairs.

Through the months of July and August the Legislature is scheduled for six days total of actual session and days for potential committee hearings. Historically, any days scheduled in the summer are very light on business. The majority of members will be spending time in their districts working directly with their constituency. They will be back with a regular session schedule after Labor Day. As a result, Lansing will be relatively quiet the next several weeks.

Michigan Supreme Court To Hear Short Term Rental Case

Gary Hall — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 14:13:21 GMT

Supremes Agree To Hear Short-Term Rental Case

The Michigan Supreme Court agreed to hear oral arguments on an Ottawa County couple's appeal of a ruling that said their home cannot be used for a short-term rental.

The court's recent order invited the Michigan Townships Association and Michigan Municipal League as well as the Real Property Law and Government Law Sections of the State Bar of Michigan to submit a brief on the issue.

No date for arguments has been set as of today.

Susan REAUME's 2017 application for a short-term rental license that would have allowed her and her husband to rent out their 5,300-square-foot home at 18190 Lovell Road was denied and the local Zoning Board of Appeals denied her appeal.

The Ottawa County Circuit Court affirmed the denial as did the state Court of Appeals, who held short-term rental wasn't permitted under the township's zoning ordinances. (See "Court Rules Township Can Ban Short-Term Rentals," 5/22/19.)

Short-term rentals in residential areas is an issue that reached the Legislature in April 2017 when Rep. Jason SHEPPARD (R-Temperance) and then-Sen. Joe [HUNE] (R-Hamburg Twp.) introduced HB 4503 and SB 0329, respectively, that proposed mandating all residential zones allow short-term rentals. Both were referred to committees where they stalled. (See "MLTB: Leave Short-Term Rentals Under Control Of Local Governments," 10/4/17 and "Short-Term Vacation Rentals Pit Locals, Property Owners," 4/28/17.)

In January, Sheppard introduced HB 4046, which limits regulation of vacation rentals and short-term rentals by local zoning. The proposed bill has been referred to the Committee on Local Government and Municipal Finance. (See "Realtors, Municipals Go Toe-to-Toe Over AirBNB Rental Zoning," 5/1/19.)

New Website!

Gary Hall — Mon, 25 Nov 2019 17:13:32 GMT

The Mara is excited to announce that we have updated our website. This will give our members more access to information about upcoming events and make it easier for investors to join the MARA and manage their memberships.