Anyone out there investing in grand rapids or western michigan?

Most people try to equate the whole state of Michigan with Detroit. This is like equating Buffalo/Syracuse/Rochester with NYC. But I know that places like Grand Rapids is quite different politically, culturally, and economically than metro detroit. GR is much more pro business, conservative, economically diversified, and yes much cleaner. .

Still, unemployment in GR is high at 12%, but lower than Motown or Flint, and more likely to rebound faster as there is much less government interference and much less of a "welfare" mentality. Also, less dependent on the auto industry. There is currently a push in developing it's burgeoning health care industry.

BTW, I am don't sell or have anything to gain pushing GR. I was just going through the MLS and was seeing duplexes which rent for 400-500 bucks (per side) selling for 10-20k, within easy commuting distance between two colleges, and the downtown area.

There are also good suburbs to invest in like Grandville, Brighton Center, Kentwood, Caledonia.

For the more adventurous, there is the exurb of Ionia, MI, which is half way between GR and the state capitol of Lansing. It is an easy drive from there to the interstate which connects GR, Lansing, and Detroit.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

TC