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Are you Considering a Post Quarantine Move from you Home?

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team
Has quarantine forced you to consider a split from your Home?
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Has spending more time at home lately had you reconsidering your space? The quirks you lived with just a few months ago might not be so easy to dismiss when you're stuck with them all day, every day. Here's how to tell if your relationship with your house can recover or if it's time to move on.

You have no appetite for a renovation
Your home might be a good candidate for a makeover, but if the thought of living in a dusty construction zone with contractors coming and going is unbearable to you, then it's time to start over. There's no shame in foregoing renovations for something move-in ready. After all, there will be plenty of eager DIYers happy to make you an offer.

You're not crazy about your neighborhood
You know what they say: location, location, location. We'll put up with a lot for our home to be in a nice spot, close to work and in a good school district. But maybe that spot doesn't work for you anymore. Do schools still matter or are your kids older now? Are you working from home permanently and your commute is no longer a factor? When you're no longer tied to a specific neighborhood, the possibilities are endless.

You'll want to call someone for this one

It's just too small
If the quarantine has made your small space feel even more crowded, or you need to make space for a new home office (or two), it might be time to upgrade.

It's too old
We all love a heritage home. The architecture! The charm! The 100-year-old... everything. You may have been ready for the sweat equity when you moved in, but when paired with everyday life, 'this old house' can feel more like 'this new nightmare.'

If the emotional and financial toll of living in a home that is just too much of a project is getting to you, consider shopping for a new one. A new construction home might not give you the same character, but you will get a house that's brand new in every way and a warranty to boot.
The Mortgage Business Is Alive, Well, and Online
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With some segments of the economy tentatively reopening, many who are Buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage may be wondering how and where to get financing. The good news is, the loan process hasn't changed much, and it can all be done online.

While some loan officers still prefer to meet their clients in person, more and more mortgage professionals are equipped to meet virtually and communicate by phone and video conference. Loan officers know many borrowers can't take off work during the day in order to meet, so they tend to work on-demand, around their client's schedules.

The rest can be done remotely as well. Clients can submit loan applications online, which are then reviewed at the mortgage office. The loan is then submitted to an online automated underwriting system, or AUS. The AUS then provides a list of all the items needed for a final approval.

Loan officers get their rates online. They order third party services like credit reports and appraisals online. For years, the mortgage industry has been moving toward a remote-ready model, so for many professionals in the sector this isn't a ‘new' normal. Just normal.

For those currently in the market for a loan, there's no need to wait. The mortgage industry is alive and well. And online here.

Michigan Shelter in Place Order Partially Lifting.

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team
Governor Whitmer Partially Lifts Stay-At-Home Order
 
After ten weeks of a statewide lockdown, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed Executive Order 2020-110, partially lifting Michigan’s coronavirus stay-at-home order.  Pursuant to the new Executive Order, which expressly provides that any work capable of being performed remotely must continue to be performed remotely, the following businesses and activities may resume:  
 
WHAT IS OPENING
 
Effective immediately
 
  • Outdoor social gatherings and events so long as people maintain six feet of distance from one another and the assemblage consists of no more than 100 people. Michigan residents may gather indoors but the group must not exceed 10 people and all gatherers must continue to wear face coverings when in enclosed public spaces. 
  • Outdoors parks and recreation facilities, but only to the extent social distancing can be maintained. 
  • Office work and home services, such as housecleaning, that is not capable of being performed remotely. 
  • In-person services at places of religious worship.  
 
Beginning Thursday, June 4
 
  • Retail stores, but capacity must be limited to 50%.
 
Effective Monday, June 8
 
  • Indoor and outdoor dining rooms at restaurants, food courts, cafes, bars and clubs, but capacity must be limited to 50% of normal seating, groups must be kept at least six feet apart, employees must wear face coverings, and rigorous disinfection protocols must be followed.
  • Day camps for children, libraries, museums and public swimming pools (outdoor swimming pools only), but capacity must be limited to 50%. 
 
All businesses that reopen are subject to robust safety measures outlined in Executive Order 2020-97. Among the directives in that Executive Order are: developing a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan, designating one or more worksite supervisors to monitor the COVID-19 control strategies, providing COVID-19 training to workers, conducting a daily self-screening protocol, and maintain social distancing at least six feet apart. 
 
WHAT IS STILL CLOSED
 
  • Facilities offering “non-essential” personal care services, such as hair, nail, tattoo, piercing, tanning, massage and spa services. 
  • Indoor theaters, cinemas, performance venues, casinos, amusement parks, arcades, bingo halls, bowling alleys, indoor climbing facilities, indoor dance areas, skating rinks, trampoline parks, and other similar recreational or entertainment facilities. 
  • Indoor gyms, recreation centers, sports facilities, and exercise studios (outdoor classes, practices, training sessions or games provided that coaches, spectators and participants maintain six feet of social distancing). 

SAFE Showing Real Estate Procedures that we Suggest

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team
HOW TO SHOW HOMES SAFELY AMIDST THE PANDEMIC
The real estate industry right now is just like flying an airplane and building it at the same time. Can you picture how that looks for the passengers? The worry? The frantic study of the blueprints? The hunt for the right tools? The scrambling to get the parts to fit together? That is our new real estate reality, where we are recreating the way our entire industry does business. 

We are rewriting all the rules and learning all these new ways of doing things so that we can continue to operate, even in the midst of this health crisis.

The biggest challenge that we have faced during this COVID-19 pandemic in the real estate industry is how to safely show homes to potential buyers without risking the health of everyone involved. Agents everywhere have been creating their own showing procedures and here are our SAFE practices

So, what does S.A.F.E. Showing mean, exactly? Let me explain it to you.

  • S  Sanitizing the Home after every showing. Not only do you keep the sanitizing wipes handy, but scheduling cleaners specifically to sanitize the whole house for COVID-19 after all the showings are done will keep the house free of the virus.
  • A – Airways (nose and mouth) covered with masks. If a buyer doesn’t have one already, one will be provided.
  • F – Footwear removed/ wear disposable slippers over shoes. One of the biggest offenders when it comes to spreading the virus has been tracking it all over on the bottoms of shoes. The droplets land on the floor and people unknowingly walk through it, then leave a trail of particles in their path. This is why we ask that people remove their shoes or where booties through the house and wear masks.
  • E – Eyes Only. There will be a no-touch policy in place, and sterile nitrile gloves can be provided for everyone coming into the home. I would recommend arriving early so that all doors and closet doors can be opened for viewing, and all lights turned on so that no light switches or doorknobs are touched. It is vital for everyone to keep their hands to themselves until the threat of the virus is gone.

Tom Stachler is a licensed real estate broker working in the Ann Arbor, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea, Ypsilanti and Milan realty market marketing homes, condos and commercial listings for sale.  Looking to put your home, house or land up for sale.  Contact us today.  

20 Ways to Save Money and Stretch Your Home Budget

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

20 Ways to Save Money and Stretch Your Household Budget

These days, it seems like everyone’s looking for ways to cut costs and stretch their income further. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your household expenses without making radical changes to your standard of living. When combined, these small adjustments can add up to significant savings each month. Here are 20 things you can start doing today to lower your bills, secure better deals, and begin working toward your financial goals.

1. Refinance Your Mortgage - For prime borrowers, mortgage rates are at or near historic lows. Depending on your current mortgage rate and the terms you choose, refinancing could save you a sizable amount on your monthly payments. There are fees and closing costs associated with refinancing, so you’ll need to talk to your lender to find out if refinancing is a good option for you.

2. Evaluate Your Insurance Policies - If it’s been a while since you priced Home or auto insurance, it may be worthwhile to do some comparison shopping. Get quotes from at least three insurers or independent agents. Try bundling your policies to see if there’s a discount. And inquire about raising your deductible, which should lower your premium. 1

3. Bundle Cable, Phone, and Internet - You can also save money by bundling your cable, phone, and internet services together. Shop around to see who is willing to give you the best deal. If switching is too much of a hassle, ask your current provider to match or beat their competitor’s offer.

4. Better Yet, Cut the Cord on Cable - In many cases, you can save even more if you cancel your cable subscription altogether. An antenna should give you access to the major stations, and many of your favorite shows are probably available on-demand through a less expensive streaming service subscription.

5. Revisit Your Wireless Plan - You can often save by switching from a big brand to an independent, low-cost carrier. If that’s not feasible, ask your current provider for a better deal or consider downgrading to a cheaper plan.

6. Adjust Your Thermostat - Turning your thermostat up or down a few degrees can have a noticeable impact on your monthly heating and cooling costs. To maximize efficiency, change your filters regularly, and make sure your windows and doors are well insulated.

7. Use Less Hot Water - After heating and cooling, hot water accounts for the second largest energy expense in most homes. 2 To cut back, repair any leaks or dripping faucets, install low-flow fixtures, only run your dishwasher when full, and wash clothes in cold water when possible.

8. Lower Overall Water Consumption - To decrease your water usage, take shorter showers, and turn off the sink while you brush your teeth and wash your hands. If you don’t have a low-flow toilet, retrofit your current one with a toilet tank bank or fill cycle diverter. And irrigate your lawn in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation. 3

9. Conserve Electricity - Save electricity by shutting off your computer at night and installing energy-efficient LED light bulbs. You can minimize standby or “vampire” power drain by utilizing power strips and unplugging idle appliances. 4

10. Purchase a Home Warranty - While there is an upfront cost, a home warranty can provide some protection and peace of mind when it comes to unexpected home repair costs. Most plans provide coverage for major systems (like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC) and appliances (such as your dishwasher, stove, or refrigerator).

11. Outsource Less - From lawn care to grocery shopping to minor home repairs, we pay people to do a lot of things our parents and grandparents did themselves. To save money, try cutting back on the frequency of these services or taking some of them on yourself.

12. Prepare Your Own Meals - It costs nearly five times more to have a meal delivered than it does to cook it at home. 5 And home cooking doesn’t just save money; it’s healthier, cuts down on calorie consumption, and can offer a fun activity for families to do together.

13. Plan Your Menu in Advance - Meal planning is deciding before you shop what you and your family will eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It can help you lower your overall food bill, eliminate waste, and minimize impulse purchases. When possible, buy produce that is in season, and utilize nutrient-rich but inexpensive protein sources like eggs, beans, ground turkey, and canned tuna.

14. Plant a Garden - You can save even more on produce by growing it yourself. If you have space in your yard, start-up costs are relatively minimal. Gardening can be a rewarding and enjoyable (not to mention delicious) hobby for the whole family. And it could save you around $600 per year at the grocery store! 6

15. Review Memberships and Subscriptions - Are you paying for services and subscriptions you no longer need, want, or can utilize? Determine if there are any that you should suspend or cancel.

16. Give Homemade Gifts - Who wouldn’t appreciate a scratch birthday cake or tin of cookies? And if you enjoy crafting, Pinterest and Instagram are full of inspiring ideas. Show your recipient how much you care with a homemade gift from the heart.

17. Minimize Your Debt Payments - The best way to reduce a debt payment is to pay down the balance. But if that’s not an option right now, try to negotiate a better interest rate. If you have a good credit score, you may be able to qualify for a balance transfer to a 0% or low-interest rate credit card. Keep in mind, the rate may expire after a certain period—so be sure to read the fine print.

18. Get a Cash-back Credit Card - If you regularly pay your credit card balance in full, a cash-back credit card can be a good way to earn a little money back each month. However, they often come with high-interest rates and fees if you carry a balance. Commit to only using it for purchases you can afford.

19. Ask for Deals and Discounts - It may feel awkward at first, but becoming a master haggler can save you a lot of money. Many companies are willing to negotiate under the right circumstances. Always inquire about special promotions or incentives. See if they are able to price match (or beat) their competitors. And if an item is slightly defective or nearing its expiration date, ask for a discount.

20. Track Your Household Budget - One of the most effective ways to reduce household expenses is to set a budget—and stick to it. A budget can help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back. By setting reasonable limits, you’ll be able to reach your financial goals faster. WE’RE HERE TO HELP We would love to help you meet your financial goals. Whether you want to refinance your mortgage, save up for a down payment, or simply find lower-cost alternatives for home repairs, maintenance, or utilities, we are happy to provide our insights and referrals. And if you have plans to buy or sell a home this year, we can discuss the steps you should be taking to financially prepare. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation! The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

1. Insurance Information Institute - https://www.iii.org/article/twelve-ways-to-lower-your-homeowners-insurance-costs

2. Department of Energy - https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/reduce-hot-water-use-energy-savings

3. Money Crashers - https://www.moneycrashers.com/ways-conserve-water/

4. Harvard University - https://green.harvard.edu/tools-resources/poster/top-5-steps-reduce-your-energy-consumption

5. Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/sites/priceonomics/2018/07/10/heres-how-much-money-do-you-save-by-cooking-athome/#2c53b2f35e54 6. Money - https://money.com/gardening-grocery-savings/ 

How Our Tech Helps You Buy or Sell a Home

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Using Modern Tech to Buy or Sell Real Estate


With much of the country mostly staying Home, it's not your typical spring homebuying season. 

You might think social distancing has made it difficult to meet with lenders, view properties and sign paperwork, but fortunately that's not the case. 

In fact, prospective buyers and sellers continue to move forward with their housing needs and doing so with safety in mind.

While the process may look a little different, modern technology is making it possible and, in some ways, more convenient.

So how does it work?

  • Virtual Open Houses and Showings: Facebook Live, HouseParty, FaceTime and Zoom are all being used to show properties. And many listings include a prerecorded tour of the home.
     
  • 3D Floor Plans, HD Videos and Interactive Walk-Throughs: Online tools make it easy to create interactive 3D walk-throughs, or our unique HD Videos and even allow for decor and furniture placement to give buyers a more lifelike feel of the space.
     
  • Electronic Signatures and Deed Filings: E-signing technology means there’s no need to meet in person to sign offers, contracts or any other paperwork needed in the process. 
     
  • Desktop and Drive-By Appraisals: If sellers are hesitant to have an appraiser visit their property in person, desktop and drive-by appraisals are a good alternative. These use city data, prior appraisals and comparable sales information to assess a home’s value. Homeowners can video chat with the appraiser to show them the interior and exterior elements of the property.

Curbside & Video Closings: E-signing technology means there’s no need to meet in person to sign most of the closing documents, or any other paperwork needed for closings though many lenders still want "wet signatures" prompting curbside or reserved closing rooms.  

 

So bottom line, the way we buy and sell homes may have changed for now, but it’s still an active and essential market. If you have any questions about making a move, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Tom Stachler and his team are always on the cutting edge of technology and marketing success.  Check out this website for listings and more resources for the Dexter, Saline, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Milan and surrounding home purchase or listings communities.  

 

SPOOL POOLS - NEW TREND IN BACK YARD POOL AND LANDSCAPE OPTIONS

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Spool Pool: The Hot New Trend for Cooling Down

You’d love to have a backyard pool but either can’t afford it or don’t have the time it takes to care for it. Aside from that, backyard space can also hinder the idea of having a pool installed. I have two words for you in situations like this: Spool Pool (small pool).

A spool is a hybrid pool of sorts, combining the words “spa” and “pool”, and as you might have guessed, it’s bigger than a spa or hot tub, but smaller than a traditional in-ground swimming pool. Spool pools give you the option to add special features such as high-powered jets, which give you that luxurious spa feel. Sometimes referred to as a “cocktail pool”, a spool pool can be anywhere from 10 to 16 feet long and 6 to 8 feet wide, providing plenty of room to stretch out, swim a few laps, or just cool off on a hot summer day — or evening — with friends!

Photo Credit: California Pools

The Perfect Solution for a Small Backyard

One of the reasons for the growing popularity of “spools” is the fact that they don’t take up a lot of space, which means if you’ve got a small yard, you may still be able to have a pool — albeit a small one. You might not want to train for the Olympics in a spool pool, but you can still swim shorter laps for exercise, and it’s every bit as refreshing as a standard-sized pool on a hot, sunny summer day.

Another perk you get with the installation of a spool? You’re free to use the rest of your yard for other things, like a patio with room for dining or maybe even an outdoor kitchen. Even people with room for standard-sized in-ground pools are opting to go the “spool” route instead for that very reason, according to some owners of pool and spa companies.

Besides Size, How do Spools Differ From Pools?

Spools have spa-like features like water jets, and some even come with dividers so that you can use one part of your spool for swimming and one for lounging with a tall glass of lemonade or a cold beer, just as you would with a hot tub.

Adjust the temperature up for a spa-like experience, and turn it down if you want to cool off or do some aquatic exercising. This might be one of the best features a spool offers. Make a temperature adjustment and you won’t have to wait hours to notice the difference. The smaller size means that a spool heats up — or cools down — quickly and efficiently as compared with a standard in-ground pool. That also means you’re likely to extend your swimming season, too, since you can simply heat up your spool when the night air in the fall makes the water a little too cool to use comfortably during the day when the air temperature starts to heat back up.

Photo Credit: Greecian Pools

It’s Trendy but is it Right for You?

With adding anything new to your Home, you want to make sure you do extensive research to make sure it’s the right move for you. Do not forget about permits as well. Keep in mind, they vary from state to state. But nonetheless, you’ll need one if you’re planning on adding a pool.

Before adding anything new to your home, there are always things to consider. Is spool pool the right move for you? It could be, if:

  • You either don’t have a lot of space for a pool, or you have space but would like to divide it into different zones such as pool, patio, play area, etc.
  • You’re torn between a pool and a hot-tub. (With a spool you’ll have both!)
  • You live in a climate that’s mild year-round, or that has short winters and long summers.
  • You’re not ready to commit to the level of maintenance required by a full-sized pool. (You just don’t have the time and/or the inclination!)
  • You’re intrigued by the idea of designing your spool so that it’s not just a recreational space, but an attractive “water feature” as well.
  • You like the versatility of being able to adjust the water temperature quickly and as-needed and enjoy perks like water jets or built-in benches, both of which are options with some spools.

Adding a spool pool a great alternative to full-sized swimming pools, offering many of the same benefits without eating up the majority of your yard! Adding a spool will also jazz up your backyard during the summer months. With that, you’ll be the talk of the town and the most popular neighbor!

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Can you Share Your Shelter in Place Home Story?

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Watch our New Video Below

CLICK BELOW TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY  Well we have all be hunkered down and keeping busy.  Most have revived projects they have been meaning to get to, others like me seem to be busier than ever working from Home using digital applications like zoom and HouseParty to keep in touch with clients, associates, family and friends.  

At times we get a little stir crazy finding new things to do and want to get out or dress up (out of our PJ's) and just go out for drive thru or carry out food or groceries etc so we don't go crazy and smother our spouse in the middle of the night in their sleep (just kidding) ...... perhaps you heard that joke already?  

Maybe use the comments below to share your status or favorite home story after watching our new video below.  

Tom Stachler is a State of Michigan Licensed broker and builder selling or marketing homes and condos in the Ann Arbor, Saline, Dexter, Ypsilanti and surrounding markets.  Use the helpful resource Links in this website for real estate and community information.  

Should I still buy a home during the COVID-19 crisis?

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team
Should I still buy a Home during the COVID-19 crisis?
 
Answer: YES! And here's why now is a great time...
 
We've been in a "seller's market" for a few years now, meaning that there has been more demand from buyers than home inventory for sale. This means that many homes have had bidding wars, with multiple offers driving up prices and leaving many potential buyers with no home at all.
 
But that's not the case right now. Inventory is tight
 
So why not wait? One reason is mortgage interest rates are currently GREAT and hovering around 3%. Won't home prices come down because of the virus crisis? The answer here is, "No, not likely." Many potential sellers will choose not to list their home during this time, especially if home prices drop at all. With the mandatory "stay at home" in place, many can't properly list their homes with photos and meetings with their realtor. That means inventory will remain tight, with less homes to choose from and more demand.
 
Besides, even if home prices do come down some, they will rebound after the Lock-down, driven by buyers wanting to take advantage of these historically low rates before they go up as the economy picks back up and recovers. Rates will be lowest now and in also the first 30 days post lock-down because with the spring/summer scramble mortgage rates are likely to rise at the same time. So Buying a home now, with rates as low as we are seeing, makes homes more affordable.
 
If you'd like to discuss it more, or maybe find out more about home inventory and affordability in our area, reach out anytime. I'd be glad to talk about it with you, and there's never a charge or obligation.
 
Check out the Links, listings and resources on this website and let us hear from you.  We would love hearing from you and enjoy helping everyone.  
 
Tom Stachler is a state licensed real estate broker and builder with over 30 years experience.  Let him or a team member assist you today in the Dexter, Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and other surrounding communities.  

SBA Loan - Coronavirus Relief Options

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Coronavirus Relief Options - Covid-19

We’re here to help you overcome the challenges created by this health crisis. We offer multiple funding options for those seeking relief. Read more below.

Funding Options

In addition to traditional SBA funding programs, the CARES Act established several new temporary programs to address the COVID-19 outbreak.

Image of shield with money in it.

Paycheck Protection Program


This loan program provides loan forgiveness for retaining employees by temporarily expanding the traditional SBA 7(a) loan program.

Learn more
Circle with document in it and text that says 10,000 dollars.

EIDL Loan Advance


This loan advance will provide up to $10,000 of economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing temporary difficulties.

Learn more
Circle with word

SBA Express Bridge Loans


Enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly.

Learn more
Heart with hands exchanging coins.

SBA Debt Relief


The SBA is providing a financial reprieve to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Learn more
 
 

COVID-19 CoronaVirus Cases in Washtenaw County Update

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

COVID-19 Cases in Washtenaw County

UPDATED April 2, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

Washtenaw County Health Department is updating this site daily with the most current data available. Please note the information in these charts are provisional and subject to change. Use care interpreting. Numbers for recent weeks may look low for several reasons, including pending test results or delayed symptom onset information. Numbers are also updated before a week is over. 

Total cases include Active, Hospitalized, Deceased, and Recovered individuals.

*NOTE: Most of the diagnoses in the 3/31 spike on the New COVID-19 Cases Reported per Day chart represent a backlog of labs that have been pending for 1-2 weeks. This means most of these individuals got sick and were tested at least a week ago, but are receiving test results now because labs are just now catching up on tests.

COVID-19 Cases in Washtenaw County Residents

Total cases
(as of 4/2 at 12:00 pm)
Total 
Hospitalizations
Total Deaths 
(as of 4/2 at 12:00 pm)
Total
Recovered
435 112 8 35

Total COVID-19 cases in Washtenaw County by Age Group (as of 4/2)

Age Group % of cases
0 - 17 years 2%
18 - 24 years 11%
25 - 39 years 25%
40 - 49 years 13%
50 - 59 years 19%
60- 69 years 16%
70 - 79 years 6%
80+ years 7%

Total COVID-19 Cases in Washtenaw County by Sex (as of 4/2)

Sex % of cases
Female 54%
Male 46%

Total COVID-19 Cases in Washtenaw County by Zip Code of Residence (as of 4/2)

Zip Code % of cases
48103 11%
48104 11%
48105 8%
48108 8%
48109 ***
48118 2%
48130 2%
48158 1%
48160 ***
48170 ***
48175 ***
48176 7%
48178 ***
48189 ***
48190 ***
48191 1%
48197 26%
48198 18%

***For confidentiality purposes, percentages for zip codes with 1-5 cases have been suppressed.

Percent of Hospitalized COVID-19 Cases, by Race (as of 4/2)

Racial Group % of hospitalized
American Indian or Alaska Native 1%
Asian 4%
Black or African American 48%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 2%
White 41%
Unknown or Other Race 5%

Note: Reporting of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity is inconsistent and unable to be published at this time.

  

Interpretation Notes for Charts and Tables

*Information in these charts is provisional and subject to change.

***Zip code table note: For confidentiality purposes, percentages for zip codes with 1-5 cases have been suppressed. 

Race table note: Reporting of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity is inconsistent and unable to be published at this time. 

Use care interpreting charts and tables. Numbers for recent days and weeks may look low for several reasons, including pending test results or delayed symptom onset information. Numbers are also updated before a week is over.

Reports of positive cases to the health department from testing institutions may be delayed by a day or more. Due to this, the current day has been excluded from the New COVID-19 Cases Reported per Day chart.

Most of the diagnoses in the 3/31 spike on the New COVID-19 Cases Reported per Day chart represent a backlog of labs that have been pending for 1-2 weeks. This means most of these individuals got sick and were tested at least a week ago, but are receiving test results now because labs are just now catching up on tests.

Total cases include Active, Hospitalized, Deceased, and Recovered individuals.

 

Michigan case and test counts
United States case count

Disparities 

We know viruses do not discriminate based on location, race, ethnicity, or national origin. However, viruses like COVID-19 can highlight health disparities that are deeply rooted in our society. COVID-19 is disproportionately affecting some communities in Washtenaw County, including Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti township zip codes and our county’s African American population. Similar disparities have also been seen in Michigan and elsewhere in the United States. Read more about why these inequities may be present, how the Washtenaw County Health Department is working with communities facing health disparities, and community resources.

People of every race, economic status, and age are at risk for coronavirus and should continue taking every precaution to help slow the spread of illness. We must continue to push for policies that address the inequities that this pandemic has brought to light, including paid time off and access to health insurance. Discrimination and disparities are unjust and put us all at greater risk. Individuals in need of essential resources can view Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development’s list of community services or call 2-1-1.

Evidence of Community Spread

There is evidence of community spread locally. We have seen cases with no known contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19 or recent travel. Washtenaw County Health Department continues to work with diagnosed individuals to identify close contacts so they can be notified, quarantined, and alert to the possibility of symptoms.

Because there is evidence of community spread, the Washtenaw County Health Department is no longer naming public low-risk exposure locations. Residents can assume there is a possibility the virus may be present when they are in public places in the community. The Health Department is not announcing evidence of community spread to cause panic, but to reinforce that people should be taking all recommended prevention measures. View community mitigation recommendations and orders and prevention methods.

 

Tom Stachler is a licensed Realty Broker working in the Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti and surrounding realty communities.  Check out the surrounding link and tab resources or contact us today for more info. 

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