Oakland County Lifestyle https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com The Energy | The Culture | The Lifestyle Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:03:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 https://i0.wp.com/oaklandcountylifestyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-O-2.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Oakland County Lifestyle https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com 32 32 171560347 It’s Soup Season in Michigan https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/its-soup-season-in-michigan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=its-soup-season-in-michigan Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:03:25 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1658 While I really enjoy a goood soup all year around, I particularly love soups in the Autumn and Winter seasons. There is just something about a hearty soup that feels like a warm hug on a cold or damp day. Since our clocks changed an hour giving me a little extra prep time, I decided ... » Learn More about It’s Soup Season in Michigan

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While I really enjoy a goood soup all year around, I particularly love soups in the Autumn and Winter seasons. There is just something about a hearty soup that feels like a warm hug on a cold or damp day. Since our clocks changed an hour giving me a little extra prep time, I decided to make some delicious lentil soup today. I usually add a little spicy kick to my soups but opted not to do so because my 1 year old grandson is now ready to enjoy soups too. Here is an easy to make lentil soup. Enjoy and share your favorite soup in the comments below.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly and set them aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika to the pot. Stir well and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and broth to the pot. Stir everything together.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

This lentil soup is hearty and full of flavor. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or enjoy it on its own. It’s also great for meal prep as it reheats well. Enjoy!

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Things to Do This Weekend https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/things-to-do-this-weekend/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=things-to-do-this-weekend Sat, 29 Apr 2023 20:31:04 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1652 There’s always something fun for everyone happening in Oakland County. Here’s our favorites this weekend: Always be sure to check ahead in case of cancellations and note that after event has passed, links may be disabled.

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There’s always something fun for everyone happening in Oakland County. Here’s our favorites this weekend:

Always be sure to check ahead in case of cancellations and note that after event has passed, links may be disabled.

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Should You Waive Your Home Inspection? https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/should-you-waive-your-home-inspection/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=should-you-waive-your-home-inspection Sat, 29 Apr 2023 19:15:19 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1648 Waiving a home inspection in a highly competitive market can sometimes tip the scale in your favor when a sellers seeking ease of  transition.  However, if you have no cash reserves, it is even more critical not to waive a home inspection. The financial risks associated with uncovering hidden issues after the purchase can be ... » Learn More about Should You Waive Your Home Inspection?

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Waiving a home inspection in a highly competitive market can sometimes tip the scale in your favor when a sellers seeking ease of  transition.  However, if you have no cash reserves, it is even more critical not to waive a home inspection. The financial risks associated with uncovering hidden issues after the purchase can be particularly devastating.

Here are our top 3 reasons why you should not waive your home inspection without a substantial cash reserves:

  1. Costly Repairs: Without a home inspection, you might not be aware of serious issues that require immediate attention, such as a leaking roof, cracked foundation, or faulty wiring. These repairs can be expensive, and without cash reserves, you may struggle to cover the costs. This could lead to a deteriorating property, unsafe living conditions, or even the inability to secure homeowners insurance. In the worst-case scenario, you might need to take out loans or rely on credit cards to finance repairs, which could lead to long-term debt and financial instability.
  2. Inefficient Systems: A home inspection can identify outdated or poorly functioning systems, such as heating, cooling, and plumbing. Inefficient systems can lead to higher utility bills and the need for eventual replacement or upgrades. Without cash reserves, you may be forced to live with these inefficiencies, resulting in increased monthly expenses and a lower overall quality of life.
  3. Lower Resale Value: By waiving a home inspection, you might inadvertently purchase a property with serious defects that could negatively impact its resale value. If you are unable to afford necessary repairs or upgrades, the property may continue to decline in value, making it difficult to sell in the future or recoup your investment. This can put additional financial strain on you, especially if you need to move or access the equity in your home for other reasons.

In summary, if you have no cash reserves, it is crucial to have a home inspection to avoid unforeseen expenses and protect your financial well-being. A thorough inspection can uncover issues that may require costly repairs or negatively impact the property’s value, and by being aware of these potential problems, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a home.

Contact us for more tips on buying a home. Or to get start on your home journey, visit www.gotthehouse.com

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#realestatemarket2023

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The Top 10 Hilariously Effective Ways to Prepare Your Home for the Market https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/the-top-10-hilariously-effective-waist-prepare-your-home-for-the-market/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-top-10-hilariously-effective-waist-prepare-your-home-for-the-market Fri, 21 Apr 2023 22:16:28 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1643 Oh, the joys of selling your home! Nothing beats the feeling of waking up and realizing that you’ve got a mission to accomplish: to make your beloved abode irresistible to potential buyers. Sure, you might feel a twinge of nostalgia, but don’t worry – this blog post is here to guide you through the top ... » Learn More about The Top 10 Hilariously Effective Ways to Prepare Your Home for the Market

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Oh, the joys of selling your home! Nothing beats the feeling of waking up and realizing that you’ve got a mission to accomplish: to make your beloved abode irresistible to potential buyers. Sure, you might feel a twinge of nostalgia, but don’t worry – this blog post is here to guide you through the top 10 hilariously effective ways to prepare your home for the market. Buckle up, buttercup, it’s time to get your hands dirty (and then clean them, of course)!

  1. Channel your inner Marie Kondo: Time to unleash your organizational prowess! Be ruthless and declutter your home as if you’re preparing for an episode of “Hoarders.” Remember, if it doesn’t spark joy, it’s gotta go! But let’s be clear – we’re talking about your stuff, not your spouse.
  2. The nose knows: Nothing sends potential buyers running faster than a stinky house. So, put down that garlic bread and simmer some cinnamon sticks on the stove instead. Your home will smell like a welcoming bakery in no time. If you’ve got pets, consider sending them on a mini-vacay while your home is being shown. Trust us; your buyers won’t appreciate that eau de wet dog.
  3. Depersonalize, but not too much: We get it, your kids’ finger paintings are adorable, but they might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Remove personal items, but keep enough character to prevent your home from looking like an IKEA showroom. In other words, don’t turn it into a soulless, bland space that makes buyers feel like they’re walking through a haunted house.
  4. Crank up the curb appeal: First impressions are everything. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and maybe even plant some flowers that scream, “Buy me, I’m pretty!” Your front yard should be as welcoming as your mother’s embrace (assuming you have a good relationship with her, of course).
  5. Fix the little things: You know that loose doorknob you’ve been meaning to fix for months? Now’s the time! Potential buyers will notice every little flaw, so make sure all those tiny tasks are checked off your to-do list. After all, you don’t want your house to be remembered as “the one with the squeaky door.”
  6. Let there be light: No one wants to live in a dungeon (except maybe Dracula). Open up those curtains, clean the windows, and replace any burnt-out light bulbs. Your home should be as bright and welcoming as a summer day. Bonus points if you can get buyers to wear sunglasses indoors!
  7. Neutralize your palette: If your walls are painted in an eclectic array of colors that would make even Picasso raise an eyebrow, it’s time to invest in a gallon of neutral paint. Potential buyers should be able to envision their own lives in your home, which is tricky when they’re standing in a neon-green living room.
  8. Make every room a star: Don’t neglect any part of your home. That includes the basement, garage, and yes, even that creepy little crawl space. Make sure every room is clean and serves a purpose. You never know – that dusty attic could be the selling point for someone with dreams of a cozy reading nook.
  9. Bake cookies (seriously): Not only will your home smell divine, but leaving out a plate of freshly baked cookies is a quirky and delightful way to make buyers feel welcome. Plus, who doesn’t love a good cookie bribe?
  10. Be prepared for showtime: Keep your home in a constant state of show-worthy cleanliness. You

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Find Your Dream House in Oakland County, Michigan! https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/find-your-dream-house-in-oakland-county-michigan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=find-your-dream-house-in-oakland-county-michigan Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1636 Find Your Dream House | Are you looking for the perfect home in Oakland County, Michigan? You’ve come to the right place! Oakland County offers a fantastic mix of urban, suburban, and rural living experiences, making it the ideal location. 📍 Some of the Top Neighborhoods in Oakland County: 🏡 Key Features of Oakland County Homes: ✅ Beautiful, ... » Learn More about Find Your Dream House in Oakland County, Michigan!

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Find Your Dream House | Are you looking for the perfect home in Oakland County, Michigan? You’ve come to the right place! Oakland County offers a fantastic mix of urban, suburban, and rural living experiences, making it the ideal location.

brown and gray painted house in front of road
Photo by Binyamin Mellish on Pexels.com

📍 Some of the Top Neighborhoods in Oakland County:

  • Rochester Hills
  • West Bloomfield
  • Troy
  • Farmington Hills
  • Royal Oak
  • Birmingham
  • Southfield
  • Novi
  • Ferndale
  • Clarkston

🏡 Key Features of Oakland County Homes:

✅ Beautiful, well-maintained neighborhoods

✅ Excellent school districts

✅ Easy access to recreational activities, parks, and lakes

✅ A wide range of property types, from historic homes to modern builds

✅ A strong sense of community and local pride

✅ Convenient access to Detroit and other major cities

💰 Budgets and Home Types:

Whether you’re searching for a cozy starter home, an expansive luxury property, or anything in between, Oakland County has something for everyone. The area boasts a diverse range of homes at various price points, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your budget and needs.  Have you checked out our list of Homes in Oakland County under $300K? Check it out HERE.

🔎 Home Search Tools:

To find your dream house in Oakland County, Michigan, use the following tools to search and filter your options:

  • Our Local Real Estate Website. Browse listings and access detailed information on available properties.
  • Download our real estate  app to search for homes on-the-go.
  • Social media like Instagram and Facebook: Follow us to stay updated on new listings and market trends. 
  • Open houses: Attend open houses in your target neighborhoods to get a firsthand look at available homes.
  • Call Us at 810-221-1030.  We are your local real estate experts. It’s important to work with a knowledgeable agent who can help guide you through the home buying process and provide insider information on the local market.  We Work, Play and Live in Oakland County!

Don’t wait any longer to find your dream home in Oakland County, Michigan. Start your search today and soon, you’ll be enjoying the many benefits of living in this beautiful and diverse community! 🌳🏠💖

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LEGO Festival Is Coming To Novi, Michigan https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/lego-festival-is-coming-to-novi-michigan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lego-festival-is-coming-to-novi-michigan Thu, 09 Feb 2023 06:33:28 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1617 Attention all LEGO bricks enthusiasts! Mark your calendars for May 2023 because coming to Novi, Michigan is a celebration of all things LEGO. Brick Fest Live is a massive LEGO festival where you can learn, create, inspire, and perfect your brick-building skills. With activities for the entire family, it’s one festival that you won’t want to miss ... » Learn More about LEGO Festival Is Coming To Novi, Michigan

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Attention all LEGO bricks enthusiasts! Mark your calendars for May 2023 because coming to Novi, Michigan is a celebration of all things LEGO. Brick Fest Live is a massive LEGO festival where you can learn, create, inspire, and perfect your brick-building skills. With activities for the entire family, it’s one festival that you won’t want to miss and it’s bound to sell out fast.Are you ready for the largest LEGO festival in the country? Coming to the Suburban Showplace in Novi, Brick Fest Live is one festival designed with the entire family in mind. Taking place May 13-14, 2023, you will want to make plans now to attend this popular event.

This nationally-acclaimed festival travels all around the country, showcasing some of the most impressive builds and leaving creators of all ages inspired.

At this two-day event, you will see professional builds that are massive and jaw-dropping.

Brick Fest Live caters to the entire family with opportunities for everyone. Bricks of all sizes are available, allowing you to let your creative juices flow, gather ideas, meet other LEGO enthusiasts, and just have a good time.

If you are interested in attending Brick Fest Live in Novi, Michigan, sign up for your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly and you won’t want to miss the fun!

Are you planning to attend Brick Fest Live in Michigan in May 2023? If so, what activities are you most interested in checking out? We’d love to hear your comments! And, if you have attended Brick Fest Live in other cities around the country, feel free to share your photos with us as well.

Address: 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374, USA

credit: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/michigan

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Washtenaw County Home Search https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/washtenaw-county-home-search/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=washtenaw-county-home-search Sun, 20 Nov 2022 06:46:15 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1591 Search for your next home in Washtenaw County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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brown wall paint house near at garden

Search for your next home in Washtenaw County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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Wayne County Home Search https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/wayne-county-home-search/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wayne-county-home-search Sun, 20 Nov 2022 06:40:49 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1588 Search for your next home in Wayne County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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brown leaf tree near brown wall painting

Search for your next home in Wayne County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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Macomb County Home Search https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/macomb-county-home-search/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=macomb-county-home-search Sun, 20 Nov 2022 06:29:17 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1584 Search for your next home in Macomb County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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beige bungalow house

Search for your next home in Macomb County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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Oakland County Home Search https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/oakland-county-home-search/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=oakland-county-home-search Sun, 20 Nov 2022 06:15:00 +0000 https://oaklandcountylifestyle.com/?p=1578 Search for your next home in Oakland County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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white single story houses beside body of water

Search for your next home in Oakland County. Check out some of our favorites or click the View All link to create your own search. Find the ones you like and click HERE to schedule your personal tour.

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