income producing pole barn??

you can't keep the kid in the same school? as per the OP, it's only 5 minutes away...

i know people that drive their kids 20 miles to be in a "better" school district... i think they are crazy, but they do it...

novaderrik wrote: the only part i don't get is why would you want to rent the house out to someone else when you could live in it and be right next to your shop and everything in it at all times?

Others nailed it, but school district primarily.

Keeping significant other happy #2.

She wants the neighbors/sidewalks/school district for the kids to play and such at least while they're young. I don't mind it either. The properties I'm looking at in the "cash deal" range of pricing are not those in which my wife would be willing to tolerate. Happy wife, happy life, or so they say.

That said, some day we'll move out to a place with a toy barn right in the back yard, and she's on board with that once the kids are grown.

I was just trying to think of an interim solution since I'll likely be in this boat for a decade or more. ...and while I realize there's downsides to having a shop not close to home, it still seems better than none at all. As noted, I still do 90% of wrenching right at home, it would just be nice to have space for the heavy work, parts cars, race cars, projects, dreams, trailers, etc. If there's a way that property could actually generate some money for me (rather than me paying for the space)... or even break even, it seems like a win win.

xflowgolf wrote:

bastomatic wrote: But I lived in Lansing proper for about 4-5 years, and I loved the city. Let me know if you want any tips on the best places to eat, drink, etc. Lansing is home to the best breakfast place in the world. If you like riding bikes, motorized or pedal, it's a great place to live.

Yeah I love Grand Rapids and have lived here 10 years, but I actually grew up just south of Lansing and have family/friends there so am looking forward to returning.

When I was growing up, I knew guy who lived in a normal 3 bedroom house near Sexton High school. He also owned a big non-descript industrail looking building in Stanton that he stored a sail boat. That was a little too far to be usable for evening project stuff. He had metal lathe and mill in his basement too. I did my first engine rebuild there. He was a good friend for aspiring gear heads.

I am curious what this breakfast place is. When I go to Lansing, breakfast is most often at my mom's house.

In reply to Type Q:

Get the Bubba Sandwich. Home Fries. Bring cash and expect to wait.