About Lake Michigan Cottages
Lake Michigan Cottages was founded in the year 2000 in Grand Haven, Michigan. We started our vacation rental property management program with only 4 properties, and have grown every year by using sound business tactics, cutting edge technology and developing personal relationships in the communities that we serve. We contract with individual property owners for vacation rental marketing and property management services. These valued relationships allow us to offer our guests the largest assortment of vacation rental properties along with superior customer service. We vow to solve issues in a fair and timely manner that show understanding to anyone involved. We strive to make each guest’s vacation a simple stress free process from booking through departure. When you book a vacation rental through us, not only are you a valued guest, but you also are part of the Lake Michigan Cottages Family!
Matt Marsman – Operating Owner
Where I’m From: Allendale, Michigan
About Me: I grew up in West Michigan, completed my engineering degree at Ferris State University and worked in the manufacturing industry before purchasing Lake Michigan Cottages with my best friend. As a high schooler I enjoyed many weekends in Grand Haven and other beach communities in West Michigan!
Why I Love West Michigan: Family, friends and fun surround me here.
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: As a process minded person, I really focus on the back-office efficiency to make the guest experience as best as possible! I also enjoy empowering staff to please the guests with customer service.
What Makes Lake Michigan Cottages Different? Owner operated with a passion for a partnership with owners and guests!
Mike Joslyn – Co-Owner
Where I’m From: Allendale, Michigan
About Me: I graduated from Allendale High School and immediately joined the US Navy. After serving aboard the USS Porter DDG-78 and my serving four years, I returned to West Michigan to join the family retail business. After selling that business, Matt and I began our ownership together at Lake Michigan Cottages. Since 2014 I have worked in my church and other Christian non-profit settings as well as owning an insurance agency. My wife and I have three children and we continue to reside in West Michigan.
Why I Love West Michigan: The scenery is outstanding, and the people are warm and welcoming. I enjoy the seasonal changes and the different outdoor sporting activities each one brings. Although winter could always be shorter in MI!
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: I currently contribute to the business by offering business and administrative consulting support for the team.
What Makes Lake Michigan Cottages Different? The business has always been operated by its owners with integrity, flexibility, and cutting-edge technology. The attention to detail and care for its clients and customers has always set the company apart from its competition.
Jami Osterman – Director of Operations
Where I’m From: Grand Haven, Michigan
About Me: Born and raised along the shores of Lake Michigan, I can never get enough beach time! In my spare time, if I am not at the beach, you will find me at University of Michigan football games, working on house projects or spending quality time with my family!
Why I Love West Michigan: I have a passion for the area and Lake Michigan beaches.
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: I hold an Associate’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Baker College. My knowledge of the area along with over 9 years of property management experience helps me in my role as Director of Operations.
What Makes Lake Michigan Cottages Different? I love being able to build personal relationships with coworkers, owners, and guests!
Karly Smothers – Property Care and Project Management
Where I’m From: White Lake, Michigan
About Me: I grew up on the east side of the state and moved to Grand Haven in 2019. I graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Early Childhood Development. In my free time, my dog and I are outside as much as possible; swimming, hiking, and exploring the area.
Why I Love West Michigan: It is absolutely beautiful! Coming from the east side, it almost didn’t seem like I was still in Michigan. The lake is what called me to this area, but the small-town charm and wonderful people are what made it home.
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: I naturally enjoy talking with people and assisting them in any way I can. Vacations and traveling are so important to many families, and I love that I get to be a part of making those memories happen.
What Make Lake Michigan Cottages Different? This is a company that truly cares for their staff, guests, and homeowners. This company goes above and beyond to ensure that our partners and guests know they are our number one priority, and that what we do wouldn’t be possible without them.
Cathy Schaaf – Accountant
Where I’m From: Northwest Iowa
About Me: I am a wife and mother of two sons. I have been doing bookwork for about 35 years and I play organ for my church.
Why I Love West Michigan: The scenery is beautiful, and it never gets old.
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: I work part time doing the bookwork for the company.
What Makes Lake Michigan Cottages Different? It is a positive work environment, and I am grateful for that.
Monica Thomas – Cleaning Manager
Where I’m From: Shelby, Michigan
About Me: I grew up in a small town. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and grandkids.
Why I Love West Michigan: The beaches and the Sunsets!
How I Contribute to Lake Michigan Cottages: I manage the cleaners and work hard to make sure our homes are ready and clean for the Guests.
What Makes Lake Michigan Cottages Different? The company makes me feel appreciated. It is easy to work and do the job that needs to be done. I am very grateful to be part of the Lake Michigan Cottages team!