By increasing their own flexibility and, in at least one case, taking greater advantage of existing relationships with the University of Michigan’s artificial intelligence laboratory, Ann Arbor military contractors are creatively flourishing. As these companies thrive, the prospect of increased job opportunities in the area means great things for the Ann Arbor real estate market.

Building on Ann Arbor’s 1999 designation as an “IT Zone,” SoarTech Industries, has shifted its focus from futuristic research to research aimed at delivering more immediate technology for the military. SoarTech is gaining recognition for its development of digitally simulated aircraft control systems. The company was one of only 11 out of 471 contenders to win the U.S. Department of Defense’s Army Achievement Award, which honors Small Business Innovation Research projects. SoarTech hopes to attract partners – such as major military contractors Lockheed Martin and Boeing – to help them gain a government deal allowing their aircraft control system to be designed for commercial use.

In a similar show of flexibility, Saline-based Sun Engineering, about 75% of whose business has been designing and coordinating manufacturing projects for military contractors since 1996, now wants to start manufacturing goods itself. That’s the reason for the company’s recent purchase of  the long-dormant R&B building for $1.3 million. Sun Engineering plans to start manufacturing missile defense support equipment shortly, and hopes to grow from 15 employees to 27 by the end of the year. This is terrific news for Saline!

When companies like these expand their horizons in the Ann Arbor area, they hire more workers, which increases the demand for Ann Arbor real estate.  The influx of new workers also keeps the city vibrant.

Maybe you’re planing to relocate to Ann Arbor in connection with one of these or another military contractors, or perhaps you’re already in the city but would like to be closer to this exciting action.  Martin Bouma – your Ann Arbor neighborhood expert – can meet virtually all of your Ann Arbor real estate needs. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, the Bouma Group can answer any questions you have about real estate in Ann Arbor. Interested in Washtenaw County, or a specific Ann Arbor neighborhood? Call the Bouma Group today! And don’t forget to check out our Condo Hotline – we’ve got a handle on the Ann Arbor condominium market.