Buying a Home in DearbornWithout a realtor.

Yes. Michigan does not require a buyer to use an agent. You can contact listing agents directly to schedule showings, attend open houses, and submit an offer using the state’s standard real estate purchase agreement forms. Since the 2024 NAR settlement, a licensed broker must have a signed buyer-agency agreement before showing you homes, which keeps the representation choice in your hands.

Near the local median of $279,900, a typical 2.5 to 3 percent buyer-agent commission is roughly $7,000 to $8,400. A self-represented buyer can negotiate to keep that amount or apply it toward the purchase price.

Likely, and this is the most important Michigan tax rule to understand. Michigan property taxes “uncap” on sale — when the property transfers, the taxable value resets to the state-equalized value, which can significantly increase your tax bill. The seller’s lower capped taxable value does not carry over. After closing, file a Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) with the local assessor if the home is your primary residence, which reduces the school operating millage.

Michigan uses an inspection contingency rather than a Texas-style option period. Your purchase agreement includes a contingency period — typically 7 to 14 days — during which you hire a home inspector and can negotiate repairs, request credits, or terminate based on the findings. As a self-represented buyer you set this timeline, so make it long enough for a thorough inspection.

Yes. Michigan law requires sellers of residential property to provide a Seller Property Disclosure Statement detailing known conditions of the home. Review it carefully — it is your baseline for understanding the property before the inspection. Closings in Michigan are typically run by a title company, and an attorney is optional rather than required.