c.1900 Michigan Foursquare With Gleaming Hardwoods $98K

If interested in a property, pleases contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.

170 Sherman Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49017     $98,000

• Contact Realtor: Albert Morehart
• Google Map
• Niche

This was the home of Conrad Kern (1825-1903) and his wife Catherine (1830-1911).  Conrad, born in Germany, was a naturalized US citizen who worked as a butcher and was the founder of the Butcher’s and Drover’s Association of Battle Creek. The couple lived in the home with their children Catherine, Conrad, Louisa, Jacob and Rosa.  What I find rather confusing is that they lived here as far back as 1880, but the house looks more 1915 or so.

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Pros of Battle Creek, MI

1. Relatively Low Cost of Living

   • Overall, Battle Creek is significantly cheaper than the U.S. average.

   • Housing is especially affordable: home prices are well below national averages.

   • Rent is also relatively low. You can find one‑bedrooms, etc., for much less than in many metro areas.

2. Reasonable Commutes & Transportation

   • Average commute times are fairly short (≈20 minutes) for many residents.

   • With lower congestion than large metro areas, driving tends to be easier.

3. Some Diverse Industries & Job Options

   • Beyond its historic legacy (e.g. food / cereal industry), Battle Creek has presence in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, agriculture, defense, etc.

   • The Fort Custer Industrial Park is a big employment hub in the area.

4. Amenities, Community Features & Culture

   • Decent number of cultural events and amenities: farms markets, festivals (Cereal Festival, etc.), arts‑walks, parks, lakes.

   • Good healthcare facilities.

5. Housing Value & Variety

   • Because housing is affordable, you may get more house for your dollar. Older homes, possibly larger lots, etc.

   • There’s housing variety: apartments, houses, etc.

6. Affordability on Essentials

   • Groceries, utilities, and other everyday goods tend to cost less than many places.

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Cons / Challenges of Battle Creek, MI

1. Crime Rates

   • Violent crime in Battle Creek is well above the national average.

   • Property crime is also elevated.

   • Some parts of the city feel much safer than others; where you live matters a lot. (Neighborhood variation is strong.)

2. Lower Income / Higher Poverty

   • Median household income is considerably lower than national median

   • Poverty rate is high: roughly ~22‑23%.

3. Educational Attainment & Opportunities

   • A smaller share of the population has a bachelor’s degree compared to higher education hubs.

   • Some reports indicate fewer advanced educational and employment opportunities locally.

4. Amenities / Perception Limits

   • While there are cultural events and local amenities, some residents report it doesn’t compare to larger cities in terms of nightlife, diversity of restaurants, shopping, etc.

   • Some parts of the downtown / nearby areas are under‑developed or in decline.

5. Housing Market Trends & Maintenance

   • Some older homes may be in disrepair; neighborhoods vary a lot. You might find “fixer‑uppers” or abandoned homes.

   • Property taxes and upkeep may be burdensome depending on where exactly you live.

6. Weather / Climate Considerations

   • Winters are cold, snowy; summers humid. If you’re not used to that, it may be a downside.

   • Also seasonal variability (snow, storms) may require preparations (heating, snow clearing, etc.).

7. Job Market / Wage Limits

   • Even though there are employers, wages tend to be lower than many metro areas. With poverty rates high, many jobs are lower paying.

   • Unemployment tends to run above or near, often worse than the national average.

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