Vacation Rentals by Owner

Best Business Stay Ever!

Guest: Business Traveler (Perrysburg, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 08/08/11 Review Submitted: 08/30/11

I had to spend a week working on a project at MIS (Michigan International Speedway), and I'm not a camper, so my options for an overnight stay were limited to Motel 6. As a female, frequent business traveler, I decided to check out alternative options. In looking on VRBO for a small, lakefront property, I came across Brent & Mary's spectacular home. The minute I arrived, they were helpful and welcoming. The unit is actually the lower level walkout of their private home. Mary instantly whipped up a Mojito with mint freshly picked on their property. The accommodations were similar to staying in a hotel suite ... Queen bed in a separate room, living room with large TV and leather sofas, kitchenette (no oven or cooktop) with a microwave and 2 dishwasher drawers, coffee pot, etc. The luxurious bath, just off the kitchenette, has a walk-in tiled shower (no tub) and all the amenities you'll need. Each morning, before heading off to work, I would stand in the lower level patio area, and watch the sun rise over the lake; each evening, I'd return from a grueling day at the track, and absorb the beautiful lake views, as the stress just visibly melted away. AND THAT'S NOT ALL! On my last day there, I invited my parents and son to meet me for a day on the lake in the owners' fabulous pontoon. Brent first gave us a private tour around Mirror Lake, and then let us captain the pontoon ourselves. We spent an amazing, and memorable day drifting around, as Brent was nearby to assist if needed. The pontoon was perfect for my elderly parents. I had such a wonderful week, that I extended my stay by a day, and my husband met me on the last day, where we enjoyed the huge outdoor jacuzzi for an evening before heading back home to reality. Because this unit is in Brent and Mary's home, it felt more like staying at an inn. Being alone most of the week, I found it very safe and reassuring, knowing they were upstairs. Mary even invited me over to have dinner with her family on taco night. I took her up on the offer, because it is rather remotely located, and I was tired of driving. Thank you, Mary. The best part of the stay is the owners who are wonderful, kind, accommodating innkeepers. Thank you for an unforgettable week. My other business trips will now pale in comparison!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

The Get Away

Guest: moff2moff (Carmel, Indiana)
Date of Stay: 07/27/11 Review Submitted: 08/07/11

Our family really needed to get away from the hustle and bustle of the City before the start of the school year. We chose Brent and Mary's place because it was extremely affordable, and was situated directly on a beautiful lake. We also would have access to a pontoon boat so that we could do some fishing. We were greeted by Brent and his nine year old nephew when we arrived. After showing us our fully furnished living area, we left for a nearby town for groceries, and came back for our first jaunt out on the lake in the pontoon. Over the next three days we caught alot of Bluegill and Bass, and we also enjoyed just cruising around the lake. It was peaceful and very relaxing. Hats off to our little savior, Brent's nephew. We found out later that he would always keep an eye on us when we went out to fish. It was a good thing!! One day there was a temporary issue with the air flow from the gas tanks to the motor on the pontoon. After 20 minutes of acting like I knew what was wrong, I looked up to see him standing up in the row boat and rowing out to us. It was a sight I'll never forget. We were fishing again shortly thereafter. I would highly recommend this property to anyone who simply wants to get away and relax for a few days.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway.

Racegoers

Guest: Ziliak (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 07/22/11 Review Submitted: 09/15/11

Originally went for the Nascar race and this is a perfect location for easy access to and from the track. Had a great time at a beautiful location on the lake. Peaceful neighborhood, great accommodations and wonderful hosts. Wandered around the general area and found some unique restaurants with good food at awesome prices! Will definitely be the location of choice when we are in that area again.

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great place to get away

Guest: Jennielle (TEXAS!)
Date of Stay: 05/05/11 Review Submitted: 05/11/11

Excellent experience! This one bedroom, full bath, full kitchen, hot tub, lake front rental is amazing. We spent a luxurious girls weekend there and would do so again! Short, short drive to Lansing. (We were in town for MSU's graduation) Worth the drive to Lansing for the excellent amenities and privacy.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Was a perfect and beautiful home.

Guest: Meredith6 (Cleveland, OH)
Date of Stay: 07/29/10 Review Submitted: 08/22/10

My husband and I chose this home for our one year anniversary weekend because I wanted to relax and learn how to fish. It was absolutely perfect! The home was spotless with every amenity. The bathroom was breathtaking and everything was just so comfortable. Brent and Mary were the nicest and most amiable people. They accommodate to what you want, my husband and I wanted privacy and alone time and they really did give us that. We will definitely be back to stay, the home was everything we could have asked for. Even the cooking outside was as big a drawback as I had originally thought the grill was awesome and very easy to use. We made full breakfast on it and with the burner fried the fish we caught! Thank you Brent and Mary for a memorable first year anniversary.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

great week at the lake -- Lynn

Guest: Lynn (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Date of Stay: 07/19/10 Review Submitted: 07/30/10

We stayed here for a vacation while also visiting family. It was very enjoyable, the house is beautiful, clean and well-appointed, and the setting is serene and private. Brent and Mary were great hosts, and very attentive to our needs. We enjoyed swimming in the beautiful lake, going for boat rides, relaxing on shore with family, watching the wildlife, hiking in McCordie Park, visiting Meckley's Flavor Fruit Farm (great coffee, pastries, gifts and a petting zoo). A good experience over all. I highly recommend this vacation rental.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect.

Guest: Tracy (Ida)
Date of Stay: 07/16/10 Review Submitted: 07/21/10

We found this to be the perfect place for a short get-away. Brent and Mary keep the place clean and well maintained and they provided everything we needed and more besides. (Thanks for the bug spray). We spent many hours out on the lake in the pontoon boat where the water is so clear that you can watch the fish taking the bait. My husband caught plenty of fish, including a huge bass. I found time to relax, catch a few rays, and read a few books. My teenage kids enjoyed the hot tub, and the company round the fire pit. Beautiful countryside. We will definitely be back.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect Weekend Getaway.... only wish I could have stayed for a full week.

Guest: Judy (Windsor, Ontario Canada )
Date of Stay: 07/02/10 Review Submitted: 07/13/10

Great great place!!!! Had a perfect weekend and Mary & Brent are perfect hosts. I am a Travel Agent from Canada very well travelled. Michigan is a great place to vacation most people have no idea. The lakefront home is very spacious and the lake is beautiful. Very peaceful and we enjoyed every minute of it. We actually did alot of walking and driving to other lakes and I have to tell you the best part of this lake is that there is not a million boats and partying going on . Just great people and families enjoying themselves. Mary does make a killer Mojito !!! Thanks Mary not even the Cubans can touch yours... Looking forward to going back . Just need more vacation time . Thanks again fora great time. Chris & Judy

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

wonderful vacation

Guest: Vlad (Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 06/28/10 Review Submitted: 08/04/10

We've had wonderful vacation with our 5 years old daughter. There are lot things to do with small kids in this area: Botanical garden, Buffalo farm, Zoo with Safari. Plus lake itself is beautiful and warm with excellent private beach. Owners are the nicest people in the world, ready to help us in any possible way. I wold not hesitate to recommend this place anybody with small kids. Vlad

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, sightseeing.

great place

Guest: jmall (MI)
Date of Stay: 05/16/10 Review Submitted: 06/03/10

This place is everything they say it is and more. Very accommodating and we had a great time. The only disappointment was that we were not able to stay longer.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Need to get away....this is the place!

Guest: relaxed traveller (Seattle)
Date of Stay: 04/01/10 Review Submitted: 04/14/11

From the moment we arrived the owners, Brent & Mary were hospitable when needed & "invisible" when we wanted our privacy. The list amenities is unbelievable; Dish TV, Blu Ray, Wii, hot tub, full kitchen.....& so much more. This is a great place for a family vacation, romantic getaway or if you want to finish that novel you've always meant to publish. I can't say enough wonderful things about our time spent here.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway.

Vacation Condo

Guest: Jordan1280 (Howell MI)
Date of Stay: 03/18/10 Review Submitted: 04/06/10

Great home with wonderful decorating, a huge tv, and a walk in shower. Perfect place to get away from the world and relax in a hot tub.

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Guest: Mike & Jen Kraft (Taylor , Mi )
Date of Stay: 11/12/09 Review Submitted: 11/12/09

We rented the lower half of the house in october. All the fall colors were beautiful. It was wonderful to wake up and look out at the lake and to watch the geese. We also had a bonfire one nite. We LOVED the hot tub. BEST hottub ever. Went in it everyday at least once. We cant wait to come back. We could only imagine how beautiful it will be in the summer. Thanks!

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Guest: paul gauthier (sterling hgts,mich.)
Date of Stay: 08/25/09 Review Submitted: 08/25/09

JUUDY AND I HAD A GREAT TIME AT BRENT AND MARYS BEAUTIFUL AND VERY CLEAN HOME ON LAKE MIRROR.THEY WERE VERY HELPFULIN GIVING US DIRECTIONS TO DIFFERENT PLACES LIKE HIGHLAND LAKE GARDENS, A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO SEE IF YOU LIKE FLOWERS, BEAUTIFUL TREES AND SHRUBS AND BONSAI TREES THAT ARE 100 YEARS OLD. THE GARDENS ARE OWNED BY MICHIGAN STATE AND YOU CAN DRIVE THRU IT. ITS ABOUT 6 MILES TO GO THRU IT. THE HOUSE ON THE LAKE HAS ALL THAT THEY SAY IT HAS. SO GO AND ENJOY YOURSELFS

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Guest: Cindy130 (Jasper, IN)
Date of Stay: 08/24/09 Review Submitted: 08/24/09

Really enjoyed our stay. Place is very clean, roomy and well kept. Enjoyed the lake view and the awesome sunrises on the lake. Hosts Brent and Mary are great, enjoyed their company. Thanks for the ride around the lake. I would definitely recommend this place to everyone. Can't go wrong on this great place. PS. Mary makes the best mojitos.

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Guest: Mitch T. (Columbus OH)
Date of Stay: 07/28/09 Review Submitted: 07/28/09

The property is outstanding--clean, luxurious, and attractive. The hosts are attentive and fun. The lake is beautiful with plenty of fish; the area has many attractions if you want to get out and about. Definitely a keeper.

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Guest: Lori and Bill (Cincinnati OH)
Date of Stay: 07/22/09 Review Submitted: 07/22/09

Our week on Mirror Lake was just what we'd hoped - peaceful and serene. In addition, Brent and Mary went out of their way to provide any needs we might have, procuring a boat for Bill to fish and showing Lori the area around the lake for walking. Fresh cut flowers were an added nice touch. Though there was not a stove, it was not an obstacle to preparing our meals there since a microwave as well as a large gas grill were available that made cooking our own meals quick and easy. We were also able to borrow some pans from Mary to use the burner on the grill for our vegetables. Two built-in dishwashers made clean-up swift. We thoroughly enjoyed the accommodations even though Lori could've used firmer furniture for better back support. The decor was very nice; however, and most people would not have any problem with the couches. The location allowed us to also make sightseeing trips to nearby points of interest and return in the same day. All in all, we would recommend this vacation home to family and friends.

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Guest: gunia (chicago)
Date of Stay: 07/16/09 Review Submitted: 07/16/09

We spent 4 of july in the most beautyful home garden yard with exceptional people as Mary and Brent Thanks for everything you have awsome neighbors. We hope see you soon. Say hello to Oscar and Mikey. Agnes Chris and Greg

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Guest: Sam Paykin (Berkley, MI )
Date of Stay: 07/15/09 Review Submitted: 07/15/09

We spend here one week in July of 2009 and love every moment in this place. Brent and Mary made everything possible to make us feel like we were part of they family. Even when i lost my fishing gear, they gave me a huge box with everything needed for fishing. The owners created a very nice place for people to rent this house. We will bring next year all our family and friends to this place. Brent and Mary-Thank you very much for your hospitality! Sam and Rita,Berkley,Mi

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Guest: Caroline & Mark1 (Sycamore, IL)
Date of Stay: 06/22/09 Review Submitted: 06/22/09

We came for a NASCAR race. The house is so convenient to the track, but a world away! Very comfortable w/ designer features - loved the shower!! Great kitchen, but bring groceries if you don't know the area. Also, bring your bathing suit for the hot tub!! We forgot-too bad, it's beautiful. Yard & lake so lovely & serene. Can't wait to go back!! Owner is terrific, too - very friendly & accomodating.

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Guest: Patrick & Tashia (Louisville, KY)
Date of Stay: 06/17/09 Review Submitted: 06/17/09

We came here race weekend and loved every minute of it! Brent really knows how to dress a place up! Whether you stay upstairs or downstairs its all beautiful! We liked upstairs the best! Plus, thanks to the back country roads it only took us 15 mintues to get home from the race once we got to the truck. Brent, thank you for your fine hospitality!

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Guest: Tina S. (Ontario)
Date of Stay: 05/26/09 Review Submitted: 05/26/09

Very nice stay. Hosts cannot do enough to make you feel welcome. loved the fresh flowers Mary. Thank you for a tour of the lake on your pontoon boat Brent. Local police officers are very nice too....lol..Hope to return soon.ohhh and you have awesome neighbors....Hi Liz

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Guest: Rose19 (-)
Date of Stay: 09/09/08 Review Submitted: 09/09/08

The ad on VRBO was as advertised - we visited the local cider mills and wineries. Our daughter also loved the beach and playground. The mojitos were delicious, as advertised, and the pleasant company made them even better. We loved our stay at this rental. The view was beautiful, the space was perfect, and it was nice being able to store and prepare our own food - a definite bonus over a hotel. We very much appreciated the hosts hospitality - they not only made us feel like family, but helped us navigate the area for all our needs. I hope to be return next time we're in the area.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/12/08 Review Submitted: 08/12/08

The cottage is very peaceful. The perfect get away location for couples. The location is tranquil and serene.

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Fun vacation with family

Guest: Mark, Angie & kids (Bridgeport, MI)
Date of Stay: 07/28/08 Review Submitted: 08/04/10

We stayed at this property for a family vacation and had an excellent time. The place was beautiful and most importantly, incredibly clean. Brent and Mary are very nice people who make you feel welcomed. We have an 8 and a 4 year old to keep entertained which can be hard at times. They have a very large yard which was great for the kids to run around. There was a playgound down the road which is close enough to walk to and there is also a little beach area there. Unfortunately, it was not the cleanest looking water so our kids really did not want to go in it. Not a big deal though, we found a nice area about 35 minutes away near coldwater called Sandy Beach which was an excellent beach with nice shallow water and lots of different playgrounds for the kids. Around that same area we also found the Adventure zone which had an arcade, go karts and mini golf. Right next to that was an outdoor theatre which is an experience we should all have our kids do. They had a great time, sure brought back memories for my husband and I. Overall we had a very nice time and most importantly the kids enjoyed it. My 4 year old still is talking about how much she loved going into the big jacuzzi. Thanks so much Brent and Mary for a very nice time!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway.