About Real Value Group
An Education Company That Just Happens to Provide Appraisals!
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We love to talk with our clients and educate! Homeowners like you have questions!
You want answers to those questions and getting answers from the typical appraiser can be like pulling teeth!
Homeowners often wonder what the real market value of their home is. Zillow is more than willing to tell you what their algorithms think your home is worth based on almost no knowledge of your home whatsoever, or the specific nature of your home in your specific neighborhood.
When the real and true market value of your home matters to you, you need a well trained human being who understands the nuances of your specific home in your specific neighborhood, not a computer or an algorithm or a highly motivated commissioned sales person telling you how much they think they could sell your home for in the current market.
What somebody will pay for your home today is one thing, what the ‘market’ says it’s worth is where a highly trained and knowledgeable real estate appraiser familiar with your specific area comes in.
Since 2001, mortgage lenders, consumers, attorneys, Realtors, as well as other real estate professionals, have relied on our education, our classes, our appraisal review videos, and of course, our home appraisal expertise, to provide high-quality real estate appraisals on a wide variety of Michigan property in Kent, Ottawa, Barry, Allegan, and Ionia Counties.
By continuously analyzing local real estate trends in those areas and staying current on home valuation techniques through accredited courses, classroom training, in-the-field experience, and extensive testing, our real estate appraisers have been consistently able to produce very credible and reliable home valuations for people like you.
We also take great pride in the time we spend educating our clients and customers about how real estate appraisals work, the story they tell, what their specific appraisal is really saying and also 'not saying', and what a reasonable plan might be for them moving forward.
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Blaine Feyen and the Real Value Appraisal team have also become the preferred source for real estate appraisal education, appraisal reviews, legal appraisal work such as divorce appraisals, date of death appraisals, home appraisals for setting up trusts and financial planning, and settling estates.
Blaine and the Real Value Appraisal Group staff have become leaders in the market by being willing to spend any time necessary to talk with clients and customers about their appraisal and the appraisal process.
They have also been leaders in leveraging technology as a high-tech-paperless office, utilizing the latest in tablet technology and software for Appraisers, and mastering screen-casting technology to provide a comprehensive video walk-through of the key points of their appraisals when needed or requested. This has been a vital benefit for homeowners, real estate agents, lenders, and attorneys using our real estate appraiser services as it saves a tremendous amount of time since our clients no longer have to try and guess why we chose a particular comparable sale or where a particular feature of a home might be located on the appraisal.
At Real Value Group, our commitment is simple: give homeowners clarity, confidence, and honest answers. We believe real estate valuation shouldn’t feel confusing or inaccessible, so we take the time to talk with you, explain the process, and ensure you fully understand what your appraisal means—and what it doesn’t.
We’re dedicated to providing transparent, human-driven insight rooted in real experience, not algorithms or sales pressure. When the true market value of your home matters, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our Commitment
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Our Expertise
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With more than two decades of experience serving Kent, Ottawa, Barry, Allegan, and Ionia Counties, Real Value Group delivers proven, reliable appraisals backed by rigorous education, advanced valuation techniques, and deep knowledge of local market nuances.
Our team combines accredited training, ongoing analysis of market trends, and extensive fieldwork to produce credible valuations for lenders, attorneys, financial planners, Realtors, and homeowners. From traditional home appraisals to divorce, estate, trust, and legal appraisal work—as well as industry-leading appraisal education and review services—we’re recognized for delivering accurate reports, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched clarity through our detailed explanations and video reviews.
© 2025 Real Value Group
Elite Broker Blogs
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West Michigan Market Trends for 2026
The real estate market in 2026 will be interesting, to be sure! 2025 wasn't what many had hoped and the new year is shaping up to be dynamic and full of opportunities for both buyers and sellers in West Michigan. With changing interest rates, evolving technology, and shifts in buyer preferences, understanding the latest market trends in this market is crucial for making informed decisions. Whether you're purchasing your first home in Grand Rapids or Kentwood, upgrading, or selling a property, staying ahead of these trends can help you navigate the market successfully. In this blog, we’ll explore the key real estate trends of 2026 and what they mean for you.
1. Stable to lower Interest Rates and Their Impact
As interest rates continue to come down in 2026, affordability is still a top concern for buyers. Higher mortgage rates mean higher monthly payments, which could reduce the purchasing power of many homebuyers. Lower interest rates certainly help to make affording a home easier, but it's not looking like the interest rates will go back to the way they were just a few years ago. Sellers may also feel the impact, as fewer buyers in the market could lead to longer selling times. However, buyers with strong financials and pre-approvals will still have opportunities to negotiate better deals. It’s more important than ever to work closely with financial advisors and lenders to understand your options.
2. Growing Demand for Suburban and Secondary Markets
The post-pandemic shift toward remote work has solidified the popularity of suburban and secondary markets. Buyers are moving away from expensive urban areas in search of larger homes, better quality of life, and affordability. Sellers in these regions are seeing increased demand, leading to competitive offers and higher prices. If you're considering selling in a suburban area, now is the time to capitalize on the trend by highlighting features like spacious yards, home offices, and proximity to amenities.
3. The Rise of Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Homes (watch out for the solar panel scam!)
Sustainability is no longer a luxury, it’s a priority for many buyers in 2026 in the West Michigan market. Homes with energy-efficient features such as smart thermostats and energy-efficient appliances are in high demand. While solar panels are growing in popularity, there is little data indicating the payoff math works after factoring in the cost of ownership and maintenance (not to mention damaged roofing after the panels are removed. There's also the potential costs of removing or replacing the panels if buyers don't want them.
Sellers can attract environmentally-conscious buyers by making eco-friendly upgrades without going the full solar panel route. Additionally, local and federal incentives for green homes make these features even more attractive. Buyers should consider the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of investing in sustainable properties.
4. Increased Role of Technology in Real Estate
Technology continues to revolutionize the real estate industry, making the buying and selling process more efficient. Virtual tours, 3D floor plans, and AI-powered tools are helping buyers explore homes from anywhere. Sellers who leverage these technologies can showcase their properties to a wider audience, even internationally. Real estate agents are also using data analytics to provide more accurate pricing and market predictions. Embracing these advancements is essential for staying competitive in 2026.
5. Shifts in Buyer Demographics
In 2026, millennials and Gen Z are driving the real estate market as they enter their prime home buying years. These tech-savvy buyers prioritize affordability, walkable neighborhoods, and proximity to work or schools. Sellers should tailor their marketing strategies to appeal to these younger generations by emphasizing features like smart home technology, modern design, and community amenities. Understanding the preferences of these groups is key to attracting motivated buyers.
6. The Influence of Remote Work on Housing Preferences
The remote work revolution continues to shape buyer preferences in 2026. Many buyers are looking for homes with dedicated office spaces, reliable internet connectivity, and quiet environments for work. Sellers can attract remote workers by staging home offices or showcasing bonus rooms that can be converted into workspaces. Buyers, on the other hand, should prioritize homes that align with their long-term work-from-home needs to ensure a comfortable and functional living space.
7. Preparing for Market Volatility
While the real estate market has shown resilience, economic uncertainty in 2026 means that buyers and sellers should prepare for potential market fluctuations. Buyers should focus on affordability and avoid overextending their budgets, while sellers should price their homes competitively to attract serious offers. Partnering with a knowledgeable local West Michigan real estate agent can help you navigate market changes and make well-informed decisions. Knowing a good appraiser might be just as important!
