19358 Golfview Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307
For more information about senior living options: (866) 208-4318
Overall Review of Heights Manor 2
Pros
Initially, the reviewer thought the place was okay.- It was described as a great long-term place that specialized in many of the brother's problems.
- The staff were good.
Cons
The reviewer calls it a horrible place and a slumlord; says itās all bad.- They allege Mike Chafe lied, stole, and damaged the brotherās relationship by moving him between homes and neglecting care.
- The āindependent livingā arrangement is described as misrepresented, with a backstory of a 2ābed duplex/trailer that isnāt truly independent and requires ongoing check-ins.
- They claim there is resting water in the basement with apparent black mold.
- The operators are accused of being con artists profiting off special-needs people and manipulating guardians/payees.
- Guardianship was forced onto the family to remove the brother, with formal complaints filed to LARA and APS.
- Heat and health concerns are raised: in 90+ degree weather the resident is hot, and the AC was allegedly cut off to save money by disabling the furnace that runs it.
- The reviewer warns others not to send a loved one there.
Review
Heights Manor 2 in Big Rapids is best suited for families and residents who are highly cost-conscious and prepared to maintain an unusually active role in oversight. This community does not present as a polished, worry-free option for frail elders or those with significant medical needs. Its appeal, if any, rests on the promise of basic daily living support at a lower price, but that appeal collapses quickly for anyone who expects transparent governance, consistent safety practices, or reliable accountability from the operator. In practice, the facility demands vigilance and independent verification from families, rather than offering a turnkey, well-regulated environment.
Those who may want to consider alternatives are families concerned about governance, guardianship integrity, and resident safety. If a resident relies on clear licensing, trustworthy administrative oversight, or has a history of medical or behavioral complexity, another community is a wiser bet. Reports tying the operator to questionable guardianship arrangements, financial exploitation concerns, and legally murky housing setups are hard to overlook. For anyone who values straightforward, verifiable care management and a transparent chain of accountability, exploring other licensed facilities with stable leadership and documented compliance is strongly advised.
On the positive side, reviewers acknowledge that staffing exists and routine daily tasks can be handled. The facility is described as an āok placeā with enough staff to meet basic needs, suggesting a basic level of day-to-day care and companionship. For residents who simply require help with routine activities and do not press for sophisticated medical oversight, this can feel adequate in the moment. However, such a mild welcome mat quickly confronts the more troubling dimensions of operation that color the overall experience.
The most serious red flags come from accusations about management and living conditions. A family narrative alleges deceptive practices by the owner-operator, guardianship manipulation, and a pattern of putting financial interests ahead of resident welfare. Specific concerns include housing presented as legitimate independent living arrangements that resemble a single-family home or trailer, with questionable legality and oversight. Allegations of heat being reduced or cut to save costs, mold-like conditions, and unsafe utilities point to ongoing safety risks. Complaints to authorities and licensing bodies are cited as part of an ongoing dispute, underscoring a distressing absence of reliable governance and transparency. Even if some residents appear to be cared for day-to-day, these issues cast a long shadow over overall safety and integrity.
In weighing pros against cons, the minor benefit of staffing and basic routine care cannot meaningfully offset the fundamental governance, safety, and ethical concerns raised. The presence of caregivers does not compensate for alleged mismanagement, potential exploitation, or unsafe living conditions. Families must view these factors as decisive: cost savings are irretrievable if resident welfare and legal protections are compromised. The prudent path is to pursue facilities with verifiable licensing, transparent administration, and a history of consistent regulatory compliance. If staying in the Big Rapids area, demand a rigorous, on-site tour focused on governance structures, licensing status, maintenance records, and a clear, verifiable guardian or payee framework before any decision.
6 resident community capacity
Assisted Living
Cable or satellite TV
Dining room
Fully furnished
Garden
Housekeeping services
Move-in coordination
Outdoor space
Telephone
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available
24-hour supervision
Activities of daily living assistance
Assistance with bathing
Assistance with dressing
Assistance with transfers
Diabetes diet
Meal preparation and service
Medication management
Special dietary restrictions
Transportation arrangement (medical)
Transportation to doctors appointments
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