2026 Spring West Michigan Housing Market Update + Ski Chalet Paint Makeover

On this episode of Home in Progress, Dan Hansen sits down with Ginger Herman of Suprins Group at Five Star Real Estate Leaders for a timely 2026 West Michigan real estate update — plus a behind-the-scenes look at Ginger’s own ski chalet renovation.Ginger explains that as winter fades, Michigan’s spring market is heating up. Inventory remains tight but is improving, particularly in the $350,000–$400,000 range. Bidding wars are still happening, though not as frenzied as previous years. Mortgage rates have eased compared to last year, hovering in the high-5% to low-6% range, while home prices continue their steady climb.For sellers preparing to list, Ginger emphasizes the fundamentals: deep cleaning, decluttering, and addressing small deferred repairs. Strategic prep depends on your pricing goals and neighborhood comparables — but presentation still matters.In the second half of the episode, Ginger shares the story of purchasing and refreshing a fully furnished 1970s ski chalet rental — complete with orange accents and dated finishes. Instead of gutting the character, she leaned into it. Keeping the black trim and wood floors, she updated the space with Benjamin Moore Ballet White and Sweet Rosie Brown, using Scuff-X for durability in a high-traffic rental. With guidance from a color specialist and expert advice on finishes for tall, light-filled walls, the chalet now feels fresh while honoring its roots.A practical market update and a real-world paint transformation — all in one conversation.EPISODE TIMELINE00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:24 Winter Walk Mirror Moment03:32 Spring Market Warming Up05:09 Inventory and Buyer Segments07:00 Mortgage Rates and Pricing08:44 Offers and Timing Strategy11:03 Seller Prep and Touchups13:23 Deep Clean and Declutter18:14 Contact Info and Break19:19 Ski Chalet Project Begins20:15 Buying the Chalet Fast20:57 Renovation Plans and Style21:57 Seventies Decor Tour23:15 Renovation Vision24:26 Color Plan With Hailey27:18 Neutrals Versus Cabin Dark28:51 Bathroom Color Pop29:34 Paint Finish And Scuff X32:06 Why Experts Matter33:49 Wrap Up And Furnishings34:33 Rentals And Repeat Guests35:56 Consultations And Store Help38:27 Company Experience And Thanks39:17 Contact Info And Sign Off