Beecher is within Flint, and very much a Michigan town. "Michigan seems like a dream to me now / It took me four days to hitch-hike from Saginaw / 'I've come to look for America.'" (Simon and Garfunkel, 'America')
As you cruise into Beecher, a cool breeze may hit you. That's America welcoming you with a refreshing wind. Beecher, Michigan doesn't seduce with neon lights and limo rides. You aren't going to be wined and dined by this census-designated place of 10,232. Yet you are going to feel right at home. That is what's most important. Built around Interstate-475 in Genesee County, the community of Beecher provides its residents nature, food and cozy living nests. You're going have a nice environment, you're going to eat well and you're going to sleep well. Beecher is a place where you get what you need. If you are searching for America, stop by in Beecher, and see if you can find it. If you try, you just may.
Moving to Beecher
While finding housing for rent in Beecher is not hard, it's not going to be as easy as soaking in the sun at nearby Blue Bell Beach. There are certain things you have to do first to save you time and hassle. Then you can do what you really came here to do, whether that be chilling in your home listening to MC Breed or strolling down Detroit Street making up philosophical riddles.
These Stats are Good to See
Affordable rental properties have made Beecher a quality area in Flint to lease a pad. On top of that, the community of Beecher has ample openings throughout the year. It's simple to get a home in Beecher during any day of any month. Finding an ideal home for you, though, requires a little extra work.
Houses Highlight the Market
Most homes in Beecher are detached houses, which means that you are going to encounter a lot more rental houses than apartments. If you come only in hope of getting a studio loft, consider checking out some small houses. Your dream home could arrive to you in a form you didn't expect. With that established, still be aware that getting a townhome, mobile home or apartment is not overly challenging in Beecher's market.
Old Homes with Character
More than half the homes in Beecher were constructed before the 1960s. Most of these older properties possess an understated charm and exceptional structural integrity. Some are truly historic, and many showcase classic Cape Cod designs. Some of them are so neat you may feel cooler than Jay Gatsby in "The Great Gatsby" living in one. Okay, maybe not that cool, but still cool. If you do rent an older property, be sure to inspect and make sure that the house has been properly updated over the years to meet building codes (yes, there are some that have outdated wiring, heating and plumbing systems). Do not rent a home if there are obvious kinks or it is noticeably outdated. The good news is that if you don't like something, you have other options here.
Don't Procrastinate
While you aren't going to be forced into renting something you hate, you may not get your ideal pad if you wait too long. If you live in the Flint area and can personally come to Beecher to tour places, allow 10 to 15 business days to complete the whole lease process (from search to agreement). If you don't live in the area, log in to that Internet and start browsing for homes roughly three weeks before you arrive. This will give you time to contact landlords and realtors and arrange tours for when you arrive. You don't want to be stuck in a hotel because you haven't found a suitable pad. Having Motown-themed hotel parties is sweet, but can get costly if your search for apartments or houses takes too long. The way to shorten that process is to do some searching before you arrive. Then you can host your parties in your new home.
Making the Deal
This process is simple. Generally, you need to bring your personal information, one or two months' rent and a credit score. A deposit is required, but think of it as motivation to treat the place right. If you rent through a management company, be ready to fill out an application. If you have negotiation skills like Miguel Cabrera's agent, then you may be able to save some money by getting the landlord to include some bills paid in the rent price. Landlords in Beecher are willing to negotiate, especially if they know they are going to receive the rent bill on time each month. Hint: writing a check for several months' worth of rent upfront is a good bargaining chip.
Beecher Neighborhoods
At 5.9 square miles, you probably think Beecher is just one neighborhood within Flint. Yet there are distinct sections within this area. It's important to find one that has the things you want, whether that be lots of condo rentals, proximity to a burger place or stores where you can buy cheese.
East Beecher: The neighborhood is close to Interstate-475. Saginaw Street has some places to eat and drink. You can also hear trains hum as the tracks are close. C.S. Mott Lake is also close. Get a vehicle if living here.
West Beecher: The Genesee District Library is right on West Coldwater Road. If you want an apartment to rent, look around Detroit Street. In this area, you absolutely need a car. Big Star Market is in the neighborhood, though.
Detroit Street / W Stanley Road: In the north part of town and past I-475, this area is near a major grocery store, convenience shops and some restaurants. While still very car-dependent, it is the most walkable neighborhood in Beecher.
Living in Beecher
You can cycle but, like most other locals, you'll probably find the car to be your way of traveling from location to location. Walking and running is advised for exercise, but not for transit.
For whatever reason you are coming to Beecher, you've chosen a place that can work for you. The key is that you have to seek it yourself. Flint is a stone's throw away and residents enjoy going there for a show at The Whiting, a walk through Flint Park, and a tour of the Flint Institute of Arts. Within town, Beecher is definitely not full of entertainment, but a meal at Roma Pizzeria and Restaurant is always a treat, and the Genesee District Library has the perfect environment for you to be productive. Gillie's Coney Island Restaurant serves up delicious food and has achieved legendary status within the local community. Other great stuff is a short drive away as well. Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad offer a nifty trip to the past. The Courtland Center Mall gives any shopaholic a good fix. And Beechwood Greens Golf Club is great spot to golf. To enjoy life in Beecher, you have to go out and experience Beecher.