Sell Your Southeast Michigan Home Faster, and for More

It depends on price, location, condition and the time of year, but most well-priced homes in Southeast Michigan go under contract within a few weeks. After you accept an offer, closing usually takes another 30 to 45 days, depending on the buyer's financing. According to InfoSparks MLS data, Social House listings sell 40% faster than listings with competing brokerages, because paid social advertising brings in buyers from day one.

The main costs are the real estate commission, which is always negotiable, and Michigan's state and county transfer taxes, about $8.60 for every $1,000 of the sale price. Sellers in Michigan also typically pay for the buyer's owner's title insurance policy, plus prorated property taxes and any agreed-upon repairs or credits. I'll give you an estimated net sheet up front, so you'll know what you'll walk away with before we list.

Focus on what buyers will notice or an inspector will flag: leaks, broken fixtures, safety issues and anything that doesn't work. Fresh paint, deep cleaning and decluttering usually pay off the most for the least money. Big remodels rarely earn back what they cost. I'll walk through your home and tell you exactly what's worth doing, and what isn't, before you spend a dollar.

I start with homes like yours that have sold nearby, usually in the last three to six months. Then I adjust for what makes your home different, like updates, square footage, lot size, a finished basement and condition. Finally, I factor in current buyer demand and the homes you'd be competing with. The result is a pricing strategy based on real MLS data, not an online estimate that has never seen the inside of your home.