By Elizabeth Lowe
Staff writer

Goodrich ? Real estate procedures popular on the country’s west coast have recently come to Michigan.
As of last month Lee Steinhoff and Tim Gossman, owners of Direct Properties.com, are bringing those options to the Goodrich area.
With fee-for-service listings, a seller chooses the most advantageous services. Sellers can even opt to pay a flat fee instead of a commission, said Gossman.
While most Web sites are based on company names, this real estate company’s name is based on its Web site, says Steinhoff.
‘You can pull up color photos, or take virtual tours,? he said.
Any user can access the sites multi-listing service, says Gossman. The property search feature also enables buyers to find properties that meet their criteria, using the multi-listing service number, address, or property type.
The site offers a mortgage calculator as well, along with a listing of agents. Agents can represent the buyer or seller, Gossman said.
New buyer rewards are offered each month, offering extra incentive for purchasing a property, such as a free home warranty.
An in-house lender and title company who comes to the real estate office adds to the user-friendly approach.
‘You can do everything right from this office,? Gossman said.
Goodrich native Steinhoff, a University of Michigan graduate who gave up his plan to attend medical school for real estate, has worked in real estate for 30 years.
Goodrich locals may recognize him from area real estate dealings, from his conversion of the former Goodrich hospital to apartments, or through his company of 15 years, Steinhoff Developments.
It was during a trip to Nepal that Steinhoff and Gossman first outlined a plan for Direct Properties.com, he said.
Like Steinhoff, Central Michigan University graduate Gossman ‘got sidetracked? from his plan to attend law school after discovering his niche in real estate.
In its first month, the company has more than 30 listings and recently completed its first closing.
‘I’m encouraged for this time of year,? said Steinhoff.
The company is seeking more agents, offering a flexible work environment and competitive compensation structure.
In addition to Steinhoff and Gossman, the company currently employs 10 agents and employees: Amanda Beaudoin, Diane Fredericks, Nancy Hanks, Bob Meyer, Bob and Sharon Schulmeister, Sydney Steinhoff, Angie Wallace, and Chris and Kim Horton.
Direct Properties.com is located at 8191 S. State Road in Goodrich.
Details: (810) 636-4440 or www.directproperties.com.