Welcome to the SoldByCaleb Real Estate Blog, featuring Michigan real estate tips, local market trends, home maintenance guides, and buyer and seller resources. Stay informed with expert insights designed to help you navigate the Michigan housing market with confidence.
Michigan Seller's Disclosure Statement: What Sellers Must Tell Buyers
Michigan sellers are generally required to disclose known property conditions. Learn what belongs on the Seller's Disclosure Statement, what happens when a seller doesn't know an answer, and why disclosure doesn't automatically require repairs.
Michigan Land Split Rules Are Changing. What Property Owners Should Know
Michigan is expanding land division rights beginning in 2027, potentially allowing more parcels to be created from qualifying acreage. Learn what the new rules mean for Southeast Michigan landowners, why zoning still matters, and what to investigate before selling.
Who Pays the Property Taxes When a Michigan Home Sells?
Who pays the property taxes when a Michigan home sells? The answer depends on the Purchase Agreement, the proration method, and the closing date. Learn how it works and try our interactive calculator to see how moving closing by a week can change the numbers.
Time Is of the Essence
A missed deadline in a real estate purchase agreement can have serious consequences. Learn what “time is of the essence” means, how closing delays are handled, and why the exact contract wording matters.
Home Square Footage Basics
Two homes can have the same square footage but offer very different living spaces. Learn what counts, how finished basements are measured, and what Michigan buyers and sellers should check before making a decision.
Property Deed Basics
What does a property deed actually do? Learn the differences between warranty and quitclaim deeds, how deeds differ from title and mortgages, and where to find your recorded deed in Michigan.
Home Inspection Negotiation Basics
What happens when a home inspection reveals problems? Learn how buyers and sellers negotiate repairs, closing cost credits, price adjustments, and inspection contingencies before moving toward closing.
Real Estate Agency Basics
Who does your real estate agent actually represent? Learn the difference between buyer's agents, listing agents, agency disclosures, and representation agreements so you know who's working for whom when buying or selling a home in Michigan.
Home Inspection Basics: What Does a Home Inspection Really Tell You?
What does a home inspector actually check, and what might they miss? Learn the seven essentials of home inspections, from major systems and inspection reports to specialized testing and what happens when problems are found.
Purchase Agreement Basics: 11 Things to Understand Before You Sign
A home purchase agreement involves much more than price. Discover 11 important terms Michigan buyers and sellers should understand before signing, including earnest money, inspections, financing, appraisals, and closing.
7 Title Problems That Can Delay a Michigan Home Closing, and How They're Resolved
A title problem can delay a Michigan home sale, but it doesn't always mean the deal is over. Learn about seven common title issues, including unpaid mortgages, property tax liens, estate complications, missing signatures and deed errors, along with practical ways buyers and sellers can resolve them before closing.
Do You Need a Certificate of Occupancy Inspection to Sell Your Michigan Home?
Selling a home in Metro Detroit? Depending on the city, you may need a Certificate of Occupancy, Certificate of Approval or other municipal inspection before the sale. Here are seven local examples, what happens if repairs are required, and the options sellers may have.
Your Home Doesn't Have to Be Updated to Show Well
An outdated home doesn't necessarily need an expensive remodel before selling. Deep cleaning, decluttering and a few simple improvements can help buyers see the home's condition, space and potential instead of focusing on its age.