Under Contract

When buying your first home, you'll likely hear the term "earnest money." Many buyers wonder: "Is earnest money the same as a down payment?" "What happens if the deal falls apart?" "Do I get my money back?" Let's break it down. What Is Earnest Money? Earnest money is a deposit made by the buyer after an offer is accepted. The purpose is to demonstrate that the buyer is serious about completing the purchase. In many Michigan transactions, earnest money is held by a title compa

Many first-time home buyers believe the hardest part of buying a house is getting their offer accepted. In reality, it is just the beginning. There are several important steps still remain between acceptance and closing day. Walking through potential obstacles can help buyers avoid surprises and keep transactions on track. Inspection Issues A home inspection may reveal concerns such as: Roof problems Plumbing issues Electrical deficiencies Foundation concerns Inspection findi

Many first-time home buyers are surprised to learn that a municipal inspection and a private home inspection are not the same thing. If you're purchasing a home in Southeast Michigan, you may encounter a city, township, or village that requires an inspection before the property can be sold. When buyers hear that the municipality has already inspected the home, a common question follows: "Do I still need a home inspection?" In most cases, the answer is yes. Let's look at the d

A home inspection is one of the most valuable steps in the home-buying process. For first-time buyers, an inspection provides important information about a home's condition and helps identify potential concerns before closing. What Is a Home Inspection? A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property's visible systems and components. The inspector provides a report outlining observations and potential issues. What Does an Inspector Review? Common inspection items

Getting your offer accepted is exciting, but it's only the beginning of the home-buying process. Many first-time buyers are unsure what happens next and what milestones they should expect before receiving the keys. Here's what typically happens after an accepted offer in Michigan. Step 1: Earnest Money Deposit After acceptance, buyers typically submit an earnest money deposit according to the terms of the purchase agreement. This deposit demonstrates commitment to the transac