Whether you’re a seasoned investor or exploring your first rental opportunity, understanding the city’s rich history reveals why Grand Rapids remains a smart long-term investment.
Grand Rapids, Michigan, celebrates its 175th birthday on June 2nd. This milestone reflects nearly two centuries of innovation, industry, and resilience. Since its incorporation in 1850, the city has continuously adapted to economic shifts and embraced progress, evolving from a major furniture manufacturing hub into one of the Midwest’s most dynamic centers for business, culture, and investment. This long history of growth and transformation serves as a testament to Grand Rapids’ enduring spirit and promising future.
From Furniture City to Design & Manufacturing Excellence
Grand Rapids earned the nickname “Furniture City” in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its booming furniture manufacturing industry. Skilled craftsmen and entrepreneurs flocked to the city, establishing it as a global leader in furniture production. This legacy of craftsmanship and design innovation laid the foundation for today’s thriving manufacturing and creative industries.
Because of its strong industrial roots, Grand Rapids now boasts a highly skilled workforce in advanced manufacturing, product design, and engineering. Companies specializing in office furniture, aerospace, and automotive industries continue to thrive, attracting professionals and fostering economic stability, both of which contribute to a strong demand for rental properties.
A River That Shaped the City’s Future
The Grand River was instrumental in the city’s early growth, serving as a hub for trade and transportation. The river powered sawmills, facilitated commerce, and helped Grand Rapids grow into a regional economic powerhouse. Today, the city is revitalizing the Grand River, investing in restoration projects that enhance recreational opportunities and waterfront development. A key part of this transformation stems from the 2016 Grand Rapids Destination Asset Study, which outlined recommendations to enhance the city’s appeal as a top-tier visitor and resident destination.
Because Grand Rapids developed as a trade and industrial hub, it now has a well-built infrastructure that supports business expansion and residential growth. With ongoing downtown revitalization efforts and improved public transportation, the city is more attractive than ever.
Art, Culture, and a High Quality of Life
Grand Rapids has long embraced the arts, with its commitment to cultural investment tracing back decades. The establishment of institutions like the Grand Rapids Art Museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens laid the groundwork for the city’s creative economy. The launch of ArtPrize in 2009 further cemented Grand Rapids as a national arts destination, drawing visitors, artists, and new residents to the city each year.
Recent years have seen continued investment in cultural and entertainment amenities, including plans for a downtown amphitheater, convention center expansions, and new concert venues, all of which enhance Grand Rapids’ reputation as a thriving, well-rounded city.
Because of these long-term cultural investments, Grand Rapids is now known for its vibrant community, diverse entertainment options, and strong tourism economy.
Innovation and a Strong Economic Future
In addition to its industrial and artistic achievements, Grand Rapids has embraced modern innovation. The city is a leader in healthcare and life sciences, with institutions like Spectrum Health, Mercy Health, and Michigan State University’s medical research facilities driving job creation and economic growth. The continued expansion of these sectors attracts professionals and students, increasing the need for quality housing.
Grand Rapids’ ongoing investments in infrastructure, business expansion, and entertainment districts have strengthened its economy and positioned the city as a top-tier location for both work and play. This diversification has fostered stability and resilience, contributing to a strong rental market and high quality of life, which are key factors that make the city attractive for long-term growth.
Why It’s a Great Time to Invest in Grand Rapids
The city’s rich history of innovation, strategic growth, and cultural investment has positioned it as a thriving city with strong rental demand. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to property ownership, now is an excellent time to consider investing in the Grand Rapids rental market. To learn more about why Grand Rapids is a prime investment opportunity, check out our previous blog on this topic or watch our YouTube video, where Tim Vandentoorn, owner and CEO, takes you on a tour of Grand Rapids to see current popular destinations and the sites for future developments, including the Riverside Amphitheater and the Soccer Stadium.
By understanding how Grand Rapids’ past has shaped its present, property owners can see why the city continues to offer incredible opportunities. With a strong economy, a growing population, and a commitment to progress, Grand Rapids remains a city built for long-term success.
If you are considering your next investment or have existing properties in the area, reach out to our team today! We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Sergio joined United Properties in 2020. He is a graduate from Pickens Technical College as a Nurse Assistant and as a Small Animal Care Provider in 2010. In the past nine years, Sergio has had various jobs, all focused around customer service.
Eden joined United Properties in 2016. Eden graduated from Davenport University in 2015 with an Associate’s in Business Administration. She’s the Executive Assistant to the Owner of United Properties, with a focus on procedural documentation. She enjoys playing guitar, reading, and doing outdoor activities. Eden is trilingual and able to communicate in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language. 
David joined the United Properties team in 2019 as the Director of Client Relations and Business Development. In this capacity, he is responsible for leading all leasing, application underwriting, tenant relations, accounts receivable, process improvement, remote workers, and general office functionality (essentially anything outside of maintenance and service). David comes from a longstanding career at a Fortune 15 company primarily in a sales and customer service leadership role.
Matthew joined the United Properties in early 2020. He is a graduate of Lee University with a bachelor’s in Intercultural Studies and also a master’s in Discipleship and Christian Formation. Matthew serves as a project manager over the Rent Ready process. He has 20 years of construction experience and over 10 years of experience in leadership positions. He oversees a team of technicians and schedules outside vendors getting properties back to the United rent-ready standard so that they can be leased again.
Carla joined United Properties in late 2019 as a billing specialist. Carla ensures invoices are received from contractors and bills them out in a timely fashion.
Cristina joined United Properties as the Accounting and Billing Team Lead in October of 2020. She has experience as a technology professional, an English-Spanish translator, and has worked the past several years as the treasurer of her condominium.
Rick joined United Properties in 2020 as a Service Coordinator and then later transitioned to the Collections team, where his customer service shines. Rick has an extensive background in customer service and enjoys being able to resolve issues. He and his wife are raising their two kids and in his free time, Rick enjoys making his own homemade jerky.
Harriet joined United Properties as a Accounting & Billing Specialist in February of 2021. She has experience as a bookkeeper and a Property Manager for a Real Estate account. She was a working student during her college days. Harriet loves cleaning because she thinks it is therapeutic. She also loves watching series during her free time, and she’s a fur mom of one dog. Her inspiration to work every day is her family.
Diego has an extensive background in customer service and, most recently in Maintenance and
Paulina joined United in early 2021 as a Leasing Assistant. She has a background studying social work, with several years of experience in customer service. She speaks English and Spanish fluently and loves to learn. Paulina enjoys small road trips and cold, rainy weather. Her dog is her favorite thing in the world.
Jessica has a Bachelor’s Degree in Financial strategies and public accounting and is studying a masters in Blockchain and Fintech regulation. She has previous experience as a customer service representative. She speaks English and Spanish. She loves taking long walks with her three dogs, hiking and road tripping during the weekends.
Chris Good is new to the United Properties Team since June 2022 as a Business Development Manager. With years of experience in both the construction industry (Master Electrician) and the Real Estate industry (Broker), he will closely work with new and experienced investors to facilitate their real estate goals.
Melba Alvarez
Enrique Vergara (Henry)
Alyssa Conklin
Leo Lacson
Dhyana Aragon
Joksan Gomez
Soroya has been with United Properties since March 2025. Her problem-solving, time management, and communication skills help her shine when working collaboratively with tenants and prospects. She is currently pursuing a degree in Cyber Security at Davenport University. Thanks to her tech-savviness, she excels at navigating and troubleshooting common technology and software issues.