Despite Nationwide Rise in Foreclosures, West Michigan Remains Stable

WEST MICHIGAN — Foreclosure activity is climbing across the country, but West Michigan, including Cedar Springs and much of Kent County, remains comparatively steady.

Nationally, foreclosure filings increased in March compared with both the previous month and a year earlier, signaling what housing analysts call a post-pandemic normalization. While filings are rising, experts say the numbers are still far below the levels seen during the Great Recession.

Michigan, meanwhile, has seen overall improvement since 2023, when the state recorded about 12,490 foreclosures. Filings declined sharply in 2024 and continued to ease through 2025. Analysts project roughly 950 filings statewide in 2026 if current conditions hold.

In early 2026, Michigan ranked 25th nationally in foreclosure rate, with about one filing for every 3,907 housing units. Most cases remain concentrated in larger metro areas. Kent County has not ranked among the state’s hardest-hit regions, though neighboring Montcalm County has reported higher foreclosure rates in recent comparisons.

The relative stability in West Michigan comes at a time when many households are feeling squeezed. Inflation remains elevated, interest rates are high and borrowing costs continue to weigh on homeowners. Gas prices and everyday essentials are stretching family budgets, making it harder for some to keep up with monthly payments.

Still, strong home equity and tighter lending standards have helped prevent a broader spike in distress locally.

In Michigan, the foreclosure process begins after missed payments and includes a sheriff’s sale followed by a six-month redemption period in most cases.

For Cedar Springs residents, the message is one of cautious reassurance. While national numbers are rising and economic pressures persist, West Michigan’s housing market has so far remained on steadier ground.