Nelson Township is on the edge of Grand Rapids' expansion
Nelson Township is on the north side of Kent County, where stretches of uninterrupted farmland surround the small community of Cedar Springs. Grand Rapids is 30 minutes south along the highway, but the major city's growth has yet to reach this far north. "Cedar Springs is what Rockford was 10 years ago," says Curtis Gross, a local Realtor with Re/Max United. "This area is the next step for development as Grand Rapids runs out of space to grow." But for now, Nelson residents enjoy large yards, a small-town community and a CAP Index Crime Score of 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4. With preservation guidelines in place to protect the area's farmland, it's unlikely that large-scale developments will fully pave over this rural way of life anytime soon.
Larger, newer homes are beginning to mix in amongst the older ones along the water.
The majority of the area is covered in farms, most of which grow corn.
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Most homes are far apart, with large yards and waterfront views
With the exception of some compact communities clustering around Cedar Springs and Sand Lake, homes in Nelson Township are spread far apart, often on several acres of land. There are also several lakes within the township, offering properties with private docks and waterfront views. "It's a more easily obtainable market than the Rockford area," Gross says. "You can still find a home in the $200,000 to $300,000 range." There are primarily rustic ranch styles from the mid to late 1900s in that price range. From $300,000 to $400,000, there's a mix of modern construction and large older farmhouses. Once prices get up to $500,000 to $600,000, homes are custom-built and set back on private driveways. All properties use well water and private septic systems. Internet broadband coverage can be limited.
You can find large and ranch-style homes mixed in throughout the area.
There are a few newer home communities being built in the area near Highway 131.
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City amenities and plenty of red flannel shirts in Cedar Springs
The city of Cedar Springs is located at the southwest corner of the township and is a regional hub for the area. A walkable downtown has a movie theater, boutiques and local restaurants. The popular Cedar Springs Brewing Company makes beers in the traditional Bavarian style, complemented by generous portions of German pub food. The city also has a public library, a Meijer and the Cedar Springs Health Center. For over 85 years, the community around Cedar Springs has come together for the annual Red Flannel Festival, when everyone dons their favorite red shirt for a weekend of parades, live music and food vendors.
Cedar Springs Brewing Company is a great place for Nelson Township folks to meet up for a drink.
Nelson Township residents head to downtown Cedar Springs and the Kent Theatre for entertainment.
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Small-town community in Sand Lake known for Fourth of July activities
Sand Lake is a much smaller community on the north side of Nelson. It has a few restaurants, a Family Dollar and the Nelson Township Public Library. The namesake lake is open for boating and fishing but is mainly used by those who live along the shore, with only one small public boat launch. Sand Lake is best known for its Fourth of July festival.
Cedar Springs schools are located on one main campus
Cedar Springs Public Schools serves most of the township. Kindergarten to first graders attend Cedar Trails Elementary, and second to third graders attend Beach Elementary. Both schools receive a B grade from Niche. Fourth and fifth graders attend Cedar View Elementary, which is rated B-minus. Cedar Springs Middle and Cedar Springs High schools both receive a B grade. Most of the school buildings are located on one campus, making it convenient for parents to pick up kids of different ages. The district partners with Kent ISD, a regional education agency that offers college courses, career internships and student support.
Cedar Trails Elementary in Cedar Springs is an above-average rated school on niche.com.
Cedar Springs High School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 23 to 1.
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The paved White Pine Trail connects the community
The White Pine Trail runs through Nelson Township, passing Sand Lake and Cedar Springs. This paved pathway stretched 92 miles from the outskirts of Grand Rapids north to Cadillac. Gordon Park is a local White Pine trailhead with a playground and bathrooms. Around Cedar Springs, youth sports leagues use soccer fields and baseball diamonds. Sharpshooters can practice their shot at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, and golfers can tee off at the 18-hole Cedar Chase Golf Club.
Crossing right through the area is the 92 mile long White Pine Trail.
Salisbury Park in Nelson Township has a lot of green space and play areas for local kids.
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Thirty minutes to Grand Rapids, less than an hour to Big Rapids
Nelson Township is just over 25 miles from downtown Grand Rapids via U.S. Route 131. The trip typically takes 30 minutes but can get up to 45 minutes with rush hour traffic. To get to the Grand Rapids International Airport, residents must pass through Grand Rapids, about a 35-mile trip. The smaller city of Greenville is about 20 miles away, offering grocery stores and a hospital. When heading north, Nelson Township is 35 miles from Big Rapids, a common launch point to explore the lakes, forests and hunting grounds of rural West Michigan.
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Sitting on just over 5.4 private wooded acres, this well-maintained home offers space, comfort, and privacy! The open floor plan features a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen with hickory cabinets and stainless steel appliances, plus a cozy sitting area with a wood stove. The primary suite includes a private bath, along with two additional bedrooms and a full bath. A mudroom with
Set on three private, wooded acres, this impeccably built home offers exceptional craftsmanship, space, and privacy. Hardwood and slate tile floors flow throughout the main level, creating a warm and timeless atmosphere. The thoughtfully designed main level features an inviting entry, spacious living room, formal dining room, and a beautifully updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and
Here's an opportunity to own just under 5 acres of partially clear and wooded land - use for either recreational/ hunting purposes or a private building sit. Cedar Springs School District, in the process of being perked with Kent County. Schedule a showing to walk the land today!
Here's an opportunity to own just under 5 acres of partially clear and wooded land - use for either recreational/ hunting purposes or a private building sit. Cedar Springs School District, in the process of being perked with Kent County. Schedule a showing to walk the land today!
Charming 4-Bedroom, 1-Bath Home on 10 Picturesque Acres - A Perfect Retreat for Mechanics, Hunters, & Outdoor Enthusiasts Discover endless potential with this 4-bedroom, 1-bath home set on 10 stunning, private acres in Cedar Springs. Whether you're dreaming of peaceful country living, searching for land to hunt, or needing space for projects and equipment, this property offers the perfect
Nestled in nature's untouched beauty, this stunning 6.81-acre parcel offers a rare blend of mature hardwoods, gently rolling hills, and dramatic ravines that create a landscape both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The land is a true sanctuary--secluded yet full of life--with towering oaks, maples, and hickories providing a canopy of privacy and seasonal color.Elevated points on the property capture
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Nestled in nature's untouched beauty, this stunning 5-acre parcel offers a rare blend of mature hardwoods, gently rolling hills, and dramatic ravines that create a landscape both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The land is a true sanctuary—secluded yet full of life—with towering oaks, maples, and hickories providing a canopy of privacy and seasonal color.Elevated points on the property capture
Tucked away and mostly wooded, this land offers a serene and private setting with mature trees and wildlife all around--ideal for those seeking peace and a connection to nature. The property has already been surveyed, saving you time and money. Located just minutes from downtown Cedar Springs and an easy commute to US-131, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds: privacy and convenience. Don't miss
LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Beautifully wooded 1.5 acre home in a quaint, private setting just north of Cedar Springs. This home has an addition wrapped in windows welcoming the outdoors in. A large pole barn with electric and water tucked in back corner of property, accessible from all sides. Also includes a 220AMP hookup for RV. The home is enveloped with a beautiful variety of trees and
Nestled in nature's untouched beauty, this stunning 8.31-acre parcel offers a rare blend of mature hardwoods, gently rolling hills, and dramatic ravines that create a landscape both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The land is a true sanctuary--secluded yet full of life--with towering oaks, maples, and hickories providing a canopy of privacy and seasonal color.Elevated points on the property capture
Sitting on just over 5.4 private wooded acres, this well-maintained home offers space, comfort, and privacy! The open floor plan features a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen with hickory cabinets and stainless steel appliances, plus a cozy sitting area with a wood stove. The primary suite includes a private bath, along with two additional bedrooms and a full bath. A mudroom with
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