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Renée Donohue~Home Photography
Renee has over 30 years of negotiating, sales and marketing experience to bring to your Western Michigan Real Estate transaction. You only pay for photos you want!
Cell: 702-580-1783
Office: 702-580-1783
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Real Estate Agent
Russ Ravary ~ Metro Detroit Realtor call (248) 310-6239
Buying or selling a home in the suburbs of Metro Detroit? I know the area well and understand what is happening in our local market. I will work hard to help get you the best deal possible.
Cell: (248)310-6239
Office: (248)406-2976
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All About Michigan Real Estate

By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
Explore the Pros and Cons of Off-Market Listing Strategies—And Find Out Which Approach Maximizes Your Home's Value in Today’s MarketWhen it comes to selling your home in Oakland County, Michigan, your listing strategy can have just as much impact as your asking price. A growing number of sellers are exploring alternative listing options—like Delayed Marketing or Exclusive Listings—but are these right for you?As a long-time local RE/MAX Classic Realtor serving communities like Farmington Hills, Novi, Northville, Troy, and West Bloomfield, I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners craft customized marketing strategies to match their unique goals and timeline.Let’s take a closer look at these strategies, the benefits and drawbacks, and when they might make sense in our local Oakland County real e...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
Laugh, Learn, and Outsmart Lowball Offers with Proven Oakland County Seller StrategiesBy Tom Gilliam, RE/MAX ClassicSelling your Oakland County home is exciting—until a lowball offer throws you for a loop. As a local REALTOR with years of experience, I know how tough these offers can be. While I always keep it professional, I also know every seller sometimes dreams of replying with a little sarcasm.Let’s keep things light: Here are seven funny ways you secretly wish you could respond to a lowball offer—and what you should actually do to get top dollar.1. Send Them a “Go to Jail” Monopoly CardIf we’re using Monopoly money, we might as well stick to the rules! Sometimes a “Go to Jail” card says it all: offers that low should be a crime. 2. “Meet in the Middle”? Only If I Double My PriceSo...
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By David John Medendorp, CCIM, GRI, Investments, Waterfront Homes, Muskegon
(Medendorp Real Estate Group Muskegon )
As of April 2025, the West Michigan housing market is experiencing moderate growth, with a slight increase in home prices and a gradual shift towards a more balanced market. Current Market Trends   •   Home Prices: The median home sold price in West Michigan reached $479,750 in March 2025, marking a 2.2% increase from the previous year.    •   Inventory Levels: There has been a 17% increase in the number of homes on the market compared to January 2024, providing buyers with more options.    •   Days on Market: Homes are taking slightly longer to sell, with an average of 28 days on the market in January 2025, up from 24 days the previous year.    •   Affordability Concerns: Despite the increase in home prices, income growth has not kept pace, leading to affordability challenges for many ...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
Bridging the Gap Between Seller Expectations and Buyer RealitiesWhen it comes to selling a home “as-is” in Oakland County, Michigan, most sellers assume the term is a shortcut to a hassle-free deal. But as any experienced Oakland County Realtor knows, “as-is” can raise red flags for buyers and slow down your sale if not handled strategically. In this post, I’ll share insights from years of local experience helping clients navigate as-is real estate transactions across cities like Novi, Farmington Hills, and West Bloomfield. We’ll unpack the expectations sellers often have — and how buyers really react.What Does “As-Is” Mean in Real Estate?In real estate, selling a property “as-is” means you're not making any repairs or offering credits for defects discovered before or after the inspecti...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
  Discover how tariffs influence Michigan's housing market and what buyers, sellers, and homeowners can do to navigate the top real estate trends for 2025. As tariffs raise the cost of construction materials, the ripple effect touches affordability, availability, and new development—especially across key Southeast Michigan areas like Farmington Hills, Novi, and Northville.How Tariffs Affect Michigan’s Housing MarketEconomic Policies and Construction CostsOne of the clearest impacts of tariffs in the Michigan real estate market is increased construction costs. When the U.S. imposed tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) noted that the average price of a new single-family home increased by as much as $25,000.Effects on Oakland County Construc...
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By Wendy & Greg Kime, Plymouth MI Real Estate Experts
(Kime Realty)
Situated in one of Canton’s most desirable neighborhoods, 50825 Ross St is a pristine example of quality craftsmanship and modern comfort. This newer Lombardo home for sale in Concord Park combines contemporary elegance with practical design, offering an ideal living environment for today’s discerning buyer. Built in 2023, this home represents one of the finest opportunities in the Canton MI real estate market today.A Signature Lombardo Homes Build in Concord ParkKnown for their attention to detail and thoughtful floor plans, Lombardo Homes has delivered once again with this stunning property. This particular home features the sought-after “Bloomington” floor plan and includes premium materials and finishes throughout. As a Lombardo home for sale in Concord Park, Canton, 50825 Ross St s...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
The Multifaceted Role of Oakland County Real Estate AgentsDid you know that a real estate agent can provide immense value—even if you’re not buying or selling a home right now? Whether it’s understanding your property’s value, maximizing renovation returns, or challenging property taxes, real estate agents in Oakland County, Michigan, are more than just facilitators of transactions. Their local expertise spans a wide range of services that benefit homeowners in Farmington Hills, Novi, West Bloomfield, and surrounding neighborhoods. In this article, we uncover seven meaningful ways that engaging with a local Oakland County real estate expert can help you make smarter property decisions—even if selling your home isn’t on your immediate horizon.1) Accurate Home Valuations: Why Reliable Dat...
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By Richard Stewart, REO Realtor-RDCpro, CDPE Free list of Foreclosures
(REO Specialists llc)
Kalamazoo’s Illusion of Democracy: How Leading Surveys & Unelected Bureaucrats Steamroll Public Will               Richard Stewart   @REOmamma_ · Mar 27   Kalamazoo, Michigan, loves to tout its "public input" process—like it’s some shining example of democracy in action. But let’s cut through the noise: citizens here are fed up, and for good reason. The city’s been caught red-handed using carefully crafted surveys to push predetermined outcomes, all orchestrated by unelected bureaucrats who couldn’t care less about what residents actually want. From unsafe bike lanes to stinking sewage systems, the evidence is piling up—Kalamazoo’s leadership is ignoring the people they claim to serve. Take the bike lane fiasco. The city’s been hell-bent on carving out road space for cyclists, even when...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
How to Prepare Your Farmington Hills Home for Sale Before April 13-19, 2025 – Expert Tips & GuidanceTable of Contents Introduction 1. Declutter and Depersonalize Your Farmington Hills Home 2. Make Necessary Repairs and Improvements Before Selling 3. Enhance Curb Appeal to Attract Buyers 4. Deep Clean Your Farmington Hills Home 5. Stage for Success to Sell Your Home Faster 6. Professional Photography and Marketing 7. Price It Right for the Farmington Hills Market Frequently Asked Questions Ready to List Your Farmington Hills Home? IntroductionThe prime real estate season is upon us, and if you’re looking to sell your Farmington Hills home, now is the time to start preparing. According to a rigorous analysis of past trends, the week of April 13–19, 2025, is expected to be the best time to...
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By James Grennay
(Genesee County Home Buyers LLC)
Renting vs. Buying: A Comprehensive ExplorationThe decision to rent or buy a home is one of the most significant financial choices an individual or family can make. Both options come with their own advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on numerous factors, including financial stability, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. This article explores the benefits and challenges of renting and buying to help individuals make informed decisions.The Case for RentingFlexibility and MobilityOne of the most significant advantages of renting is the flexibility it offers. Renters can relocate with relative ease, making it ideal for individuals who frequently move for work, education, or personal reasons. A lease agreement, typically lasting six months to a year, provides the o...
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By Wendy & Greg Kime, Plymouth MI Real Estate Experts
(Kime Realty)
If you’ve been searching for a new construction home for sale in Brownstown, MI, look no further than 26328 Silver Creek Dr in the desirable Woodcreek Meadows Subdivision. This brand-new, move-in-ready home offers an exceptional combination of modern design, premium finishes, and spacious living on a hard-to-find half-acre lot. Colonial | 2-Story Single Family New Construction Home 4 Bedrooms 2 Full Bathrooms | 1 Half Bath Brownstown Township Woodhaven Schools Woodcreek Meadows Subdivision Wayne County 2560 Square Feet VIEW ALL PHOTOS HERE Kime Realty Blog Post 2-Car Side-Entry Garage 1. Welcome to Your Dream Home in Brownstown, MIListed by Wendy and Greg Kime of Kime Realty, this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 2-story colonial home boasts an open floor plan with 9 ft. ceilings on the fi...
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By Wendy & Greg Kime, Plymouth MI Real Estate Experts
(Kime Realty)
Are you searching for a beautifully remodeled ranch home in Milan, MI? This stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home at 366 Anderson Street offers modern updates, luxury features, and a spacious fenced backyard—all within the sought-after Milan School District. This move-in-ready home blends style, comfort, and convenience. Keep reading to explore the exceptional details of this must-see property! Ranch-Style | Single-Story Home 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Milan Milan School District Monroe County 1200 Square Feet VIEW ALL PHOTOS, FLOOR PLAN, AND 3D TOUR HERE Kime Realty Blog Post Fenced Backyard Welcome to 366 Anderson Street: a Beautiful Milan, MI Ranch HomeNestled in Monroe County, this ranch-style home in Milan, MI was built in 2015 and has been thoughtfully remodeled to meet today’s modern l...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
Buying Your First Home in Oakland County MI: Tips to Beat First-Time JittersFeeling nervous about buying your first home in Oakland County, MI? You’re not alone—and it’s completely normal. Taking that first big step into homeownership is a mix of excitement and uncertainty, especially when you're unsure of where to start. This guide is here to simplify the process and give you the confidence to move forward. From understanding finances to narrowing down neighborhoods, you’ll learn what to expect and how to approach each stage of this journey. Ready to get started? Contact Realtor Tom Gilliam today to begin your search with expert guidance.Why It's Natural to Feel Nervous When Buying Your First HomeBuying your first home in Oakland County, MI, is an enormous milestone, but it's also a jo...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
 Buying a Home This Spring? Trust Realtor Tom Gilliam to Guide YouRealtor Tom Gilliam, a trusted member of RE/MAX Classic, specializes in assisting buyers and sellers in Farmington Hills, Novi, Keego Harbor, and surrounding Oakland County communities. With over 20 years of experience, Tom brings extensive local expertise, winning strategies, and a commitment to results for his clients.Why Choose Realtor Tom Gilliam?Known for delivering exceptional results, *Realtor Tom Gilliam* has helped hundreds of buyers and sellers achieve their goals in **Oakland County’s real estate market**. Here’s why clients trust Tom: Deep Local Expertise: Clients benefit from Tom’s intimate knowledge of communities like *Farmington Hills* and *Keego Harbor*. He provides unparalleled insights into neighborhood...
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By Wendy & Greg Kime, Plymouth MI Real Estate Experts
(Kime Realty)
A Thoughtfully Designed Living SpaceIf you’re looking for a ranch home for sale in Plymouth, MI, this beautifully maintained one-story home in Quail Hollow Estates is a must-see. Located in Plymouth Township, this property offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a partially finished basement with a home office, and a 2-car side entrance garage.Sitting on a 121' x 135' lot, this home provides ample outdoor space while maintaining a convenient location near top-rated Plymouth-Canton Schools, local parks, and major highways.The inviting foyer with charming hardwood flooring sets the tone as you enter this beautiful home. The large living room features a bay window, filling the space with natural light. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening at home or entertaining guests, this room off...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
Selling Your Home in Oakland County? Keep the Deal on Track with These TipsThinking about selling your home in Oakland County, Michigan? Whether you’re in Farmington Hills, Royal Oak, Novi, or Troy, selling your home requires a smart and proven strategy to avoid common pitfalls in today’s market. Learn how Realtor Tom Gilliam of RE/MAX Classic can guide you to success, even in challenging conditions.Why Are Oakland County Home Sales Falling Through?1. More Choices Increase Buyer HesitationIn recent years, home inventory in cities like Novi, Farmington Hills, and Birmingham was so tight that buyers had no time to hesitate when making an offer. However, more housing options in today’s market mean buyers have the ability to slow down, compare homes, and even change their minds during conti...
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By James Grennay
(Genesee County Home Buyers LLC)
 Short-Term Rentals and Their Impact on Home Market ValuesIntroductionShort-term rentals (STRs) have surged in popularity over the past decade, largely due to platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. These services allow homeowners to rent out their properties for short durations, often catering to tourists, business travelers, and temporary residents. While STRs provide economic benefits for property owners and local economies, they also influence home market values, housing availability, and neighborhood dynamics. This article explores the impact of STRs on real estate prices, housing supply, and the broader implications for communities.The Rise of Short-Term RentalsThe proliferation of STR platforms has changed the traditional rental and hospitality industries. Homeowners and in...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
 Is a Newly Built Home Right for You in Oakland County, Michigan?When it comes to buying a home, prospective buyers in Oakland County, Michigan, have a range of options. Among them, newly built homes stand out for their flexibility, energy efficiency, and modern amenities. However, before making such a significant investment, it’s critical to weigh both the advantages and the potential challenges of buying a new construction property. This comprehensive guide explores these aspects to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and budget.Top Benefits of Buying a Newly Built HomeNew construction homes offer numerous advantages, especially for buyers in Oakland County's thriving real estate market. From the latest in energy efficiency to customizable layouts, here’s why you should...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
10 Signs It’s Time to Downsize Your Home in Farmington HillsHave you noticed that your home no longer feels like the perfect fit? As life evolves, so do your housing needs. For many homeowners in Farmington Hills, downsizing isn’t just a move to a smaller space—it’s an opportunity to simplify, save money, and regain control over your lifestyle. Whether it’s reducing costs, improving accessibility, or simply feeling overwhelmed by unused rooms, downsizing offers the freedom to focus on what matters most. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to make the shift, here are 10 key signs to help you decide—and actionable tips to guide you every step of the way.Why Downsizing in Farmington Hills Makes SenseFarmington Hills homeowners are increasingly seeing the benefits of transitioning to more...
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By David John Medendorp, CCIM, GRI, Investments, Waterfront Homes, Muskegon
(Medendorp Real Estate Group Muskegon )
Zillow Says My House Is Worth $50,000 More (or Less) Than My Agent’s Valuation—What’s Going On?It’s common for homeowners to find discrepancies between Zillow’s “Zestimate” and a professional real estate agent’s valuation, sometimes differing by $50,000 or more. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions about your property.Why Do Zestimates and Agent Valuations Differ? 1. Automated Algorithms vs. Local Expertise      •   Zestimates: Zillow uses automated valuation models that analyze public data, such as tax records and previous sales. These models may not account for unique property features, recent renovations, or specific neighborhood nuances.      •   Agent Valuations: A local real estate agent, like me, with 35 years of experience, assesses your prope...
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By Tom Gilliam- RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(Re/Max Classic)
  Seller Concessions: Boost Your Oakland County, MI Home Sale in 2025Looking for ways to sell your home faster? Strategic seller concessions, like covering closing costs or offering repair credits, can make your listing stand out and secure attractive offers. Learn how these strategies work in Oakland County, MI’s competitive real estate market!Download Our Free Oakland County Home Selling GuideTable of Contents Sell Your Home Faster with Seller Concessions Why Are Seller Concessions Popular in Oakland County? How Seller Concessions Make a Difference Tailoring Seller Concessions to Fit Your Home Maximize Your Home Sale Potential in 2025 Free Oakland County Home Selling Guide What Our Clients Say FAQs About Seller Concessions Get Started Today Sell Your Home Faster with Strategic Seller ...
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