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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
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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.
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All About Michigan Real Estate

By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Quick Summary Most Oakland County homes that sit on the market too long share the same avoidable mistakes. Small preparation steps before listing can mean the difference between multiple offers and price reductions. Local market knowledge is the single biggest advantage Oakland County sellers can have in 2026. After 24 years helping buyers and sellers across Farmington Hills, Novi, West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, and Northville, I have watched the same five mistakes cost Oakland County sellers thousands of dollars — often on homes that could have sold quickly at full price with just a little more preparation.Here is what I see most often, and exactly what to do instead.Mistake #1 — Neglecting Curb AppealMichigan winters leave their mark on every home. By the time spring listing seas...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
  After 24 years of helping buyers and sellers navigate the Oakland County real estate market, I have seen the same costly mistakes repeat themselves every single spring. The good news is that every one of them is completely avoidable with the right strategy. Here is what the data is telling us right now: Oakland County leads all of Southeast Michigan with an average home price of $386,000. In Farmington Hills specifically, the median home value is $385,085 and homes are going pending in just 6 days. By any measure, this is a strong seller's market — but that does not mean every home sells quickly or for top dollar. 📊 Oakland County Market Snapshot — Spring 2026 METRIC DATA TREND Oakland County Avg Price $386,000 🏆 #1 SE Michigan Farmington Hills Median $385,085 ↑ +2.3% YOY Farmington H...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
 If you have been waiting for the perfect moment to sell your home in Farmington Hills or anywhere across Oakland County Michigan — that moment is right now. According to Realtor.com's 2026 Best Time to Sell Report, the week of April 12 to 18 is statistically the single best week of the entire year to list your home. And here in the Midwest — Michigan markets are among the strongest performing in the entire country heading into spring 2026. After 24 years helping homeowners sell across Farmington Hills, Novi, Northville, West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills — I can tell you honestly — this is one of the most compelling seller windows I have seen in years. Here is everything Oakland County homeowners need to know to take advantage of it.Table of Contents Why Mid April Is the Best Time to...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Buying a home in Oakland County comes with plenty of financial planning, but utility bills are the expense that catches most buyers off guard. If you have ever wondered how much are utilities in Michigan especially in Oakland County you are not alone. The average utility bills in Michigan run higher than most buyers expect. While most people focus on mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance, monthly utilities can quietly add $250 to $350 or more to your housing costs. In fact, average electricity alone runs $209 per month for Oakland County homeowners, which is slightly above the state average. Understanding what you will actually pay for electricity, gas, water, and trash before you close on a home is one of the smartest budgeting moves you can make.Table of Contents Understand...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Summary: Proper preparation, pricing, and online marketing are crucial for successful home sales in Oakland County. Spring is the optimal season to list due to higher buyer activity and faster sales. Working with a local Realtor and professional listing strategies increases the chances of selling at or above asking price. Selling your home in Oakland County can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it for the first time and aren’t sure where to begin online. The good news is that Oakland County’s real estate market rewards sellers who prepare well, price strategically, and use the right platforms to reach serious buyers. With Oakland County market trends shifting in ways that favor informed sellers, knowing the local landscape before you list is one of the smartest moves you ca...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Summary: Home appraisals determine property value and impact loan approvals and closing timelines. Proper preparation by sellers and buyers is essential for achieving a favorable appraisal outcome. When appraisals are low, options include requesting a reconsideration, renegotiating, or ordering a second appraisal. A single appraisal can determine whether your Oakland County home sale closes smoothly or falls apart at the finish line. Yet most buyers and sellers treat it as routine paperwork rather than the high-stakes evaluation it truly is. The home appraisal process directly shapes your purchase price, your loan amount, and your closing timeline. Whether you're buying in Farmington Hills, selling in West Bloomfield, or relocating anywhere across Oakland County, understanding every st...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Summary: Real estate contracts in Michigan are legally binding agreements with financial consequences. Understanding key terms and deadlines is essential to avoid costly disputes or deal cancellations. Consulting with an experienced agent or attorney helps ensure contracts are properly reviewed and negotiated. A single contract mistake can cost you thousands of dollars or even the entire deal. Many buyers and sellers in Oakland County treat real estate contracts as routine paperwork, but these documents are binding legal agreements with real financial consequences. Miss a deadline, overlook a disclosure requirement, or misread a contingency clause, and you could face a canceled sale, lost earnest money, or a costly legal dispute. Understanding the fundamentals of Michigan real estate co...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Summary: Bloomfield Hills home prices rose 25.9% in 2025 due to limited supply and high demand. The market features a wide price range from around $500,000 to over $4 million. Strategic pricing, preparation, and real-time market knowledge are key for buyers and sellers. Bloomfield Hills, Michigan is one of the most sought-after addresses in Oakland County, and the numbers back that up. The median sale price hit $1,164,225 in December 2025, a stunning 25.9% jump year-over-year. Whether you are planning to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, understanding what is driving these prices is no longer optional. This article breaks down the key cost factors, shows you real sold examples, compares Bloomfield Hills to nearby markets, and gives you actionable strategies to navigate 2026 with confi...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Summary: Michigan does not allow transfer-on-death deeds for real estate; Lady Bird deeds are used instead. Proper estate planning with Lady Bird deeds, trusts, and paperwork prevents costly probate delays and fees. Local professionals can help Oakland County homeowners create effective, personalized estate transfer strategies. Many Oakland County homeowners assume they can use a transfer-on-death deed to pass real estate directly to their heirs, just like a bank account beneficiary designation. That assumption can be costly. Michigan does not allow TOD deeds for real property, which means Lady Bird deeds are the primary tool local homeowners use to avoid probate. Without the right plan in place, your home could get tied up in a court process that takes months and costs thousands. This ...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
📋 Quick Summary: Despite billions invested, Michigan still faces a significant shortage of affordable housing units. Assistance programs vary by income, household size, and location, requiring proactive and tailored efforts. Navigating programs and eligibility depends on local contacts, documentation, and continuous follow-up. Michigan has invested billions in affordable housing, yet many residents still struggle to find real help. In fiscal year 2025, MSHDA supported 45,000 households with $2.61 billion in funding and produced over 12,000 new housing units statewide. Despite that scale, the need still outpaces the supply. If you are a renter, a first-time buyer, or a family stretched thin by housing costs, the right program can genuinely change your situation. This guide walks you thr...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Choosing a condo in Farmington Hills means weighing lifestyle priorities against investment potential while navigating HOA rules and community amenities. Whether you’re a first-time buyer seeking low-maintenance living, an investor evaluating rental opportunities, or a retiree looking for vibrant community features, understanding what each property offers is essential. This guide walks you through the key criteria for selecting condos, highlights popular communities with their standout features, and provides situational recommendations to help you make a confident, informed decision that aligns with your goals and budget.Table of Contents Key takeaways How to evaluate condo living in Farmington Hills: key criteria Popular condos and communities in Farmington Hills Comparing condos: feat...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Many home buyers and sellers focus solely on current listings and sale prices when evaluating Oakland County real estate, but this approach misses a critical layer of insight. Census data offers a stable, comprehensive view of housing market fundamentals that current listings alone cannot provide. By understanding key demographic and housing statistics from census reports, you can make smarter decisions about pricing, timing, and neighborhood selection. This guide will show you how to interpret local census data alongside real-time market information to gain a competitive edge whether you’re buying your first home or selling a luxury property in Oakland County.Table of Contents 📊 Oakland County Real Estate Insight Use Census Data to Make Smarter Buying and Selling Decisions in Oakland C...
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By Richard Stewart, REO Realtor-RDCpro, CDPE Free list of Foreclosures
(REO Specialists llc)
Probate Real Estate Specialist in Kalamazoo, Michigan | Richard Stewart Earns CertificationKalamazoo, Michigan – Exciting news for homeowners, families, and estate representatives across Michigan.Richard Stewart, Associate Broker with Real Broker LLC and owner of REO Specialists LLC, has earned the prestigious Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist designation, further strengthening his position as a trusted expert in probate real estate, inherited property sales, and equity-focused home selling strategies.With over 25+ years of experience, Richard Stewart is known for helping homeowners sell for the highest price in the least amount of time—even in complex situations like probate, inherited homes, and as-is property sales.What This Means for Michigan HomeownersThe Certified Probate S...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Many Oakland County home sellers assume they can save thousands by skipping a real estate agent and listing their property themselves. Yet recent data reveals agent-assisted sales consistently net higher prices and sell faster than for-sale-by-owner attempts. A seller’s agent brings pricing expertise, marketing reach, negotiation skills, and legal protection that few homeowners can replicate on their own. This guide explains what a seller’s agent does, how they maximize your sale price, and why choosing the right agent matters for Oakland County transactions.Table of Contents Key takeaways Understanding what a seller’s agent does in Oakland County How seller’s agents help price and market your home for top dollar The proven benefits of using a seller’s agent versus selling on your own N...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Oakland County boasts an impressive 50 public school districts serving over 172,000 students, making it one of Michigan’s most educationally diverse regions. For families relocating or buying a home, this variety creates both opportunity and complexity. Choosing the right district affects not just your child’s education but also your community experience, home value, and daily routine. This guide breaks down district options, academic performance, and practical selection strategies to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your family’s needs and homebuying goals.Table of Contents Key takeaways Overview of Oakland County school districts and student population Academic performance and graduation rates across districts Top-ranked Oakland County school districts to consider P...
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By Richard Stewart, REO Realtor-RDCpro, CDPE Free list of Foreclosures
(REO Specialists llc)
Michigan Foreclosure After Sheriff Sale: You May Still Own Your Home During the Redemption Period Richard Stewart's EQUITY RECOVERY PROGRAM If you’re behind on mortgage payments, facing foreclosure, or your home already sold at a sheriff sale in Michigan, you may still have options to protect your family and recover equity. In many Michigan foreclosures, the homeowner can still legally own the property during the redemption period and may be able to sell the home before time runs out.Video: Watch the quick breakdown below—then review the FAQ and next steps.Foreclosure in Michigan: What “Sheriff Sale” Really MeansMany homeowners assume the sheriff sale is the end. In reality, Michigan foreclosure timelines often include a redemption period after the sale. During that window, you may stil...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
Financing a home improvement project in Oakland County can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re weighing options between equity loans, government grants, and specialized energy programs. Whether you’re planning a bathroom remodel to boost resale value, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, or tackling essential repairs, understanding your financing choices is crucial. This guide walks you through practical local options available in 2026, from HELOCs requiring strong credit to income-based grants and Michigan Saves loans, helping you make informed decisions that align with your budget and goals.Table of Contents Understanding Your Financing Options In Oakland County Preparing To Finance Your Home Improvement Project Executing Financing And Managing Your Home Improvement Loan Maxim...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
You check an online home valuation tool and see a number for your Oakland County property. But is that estimate reliable enough to price your home or make an offer? Many homebuyers and sellers assume these automated valuations reflect true market value, yet their accuracy can vary dramatically based on data quality, market conditions, and local nuances. Understanding how these tools work and their limitations helps you make smarter real estate decisions in Oakland County’s dynamic market.Table of Contents How Online Home Valuations Work And What Data They Use Factors Affecting The Accuracy Of Online Home Valuations In Oakland County Comparing Online Valuations With Traditional Appraisals And Market Analyses How To Use Online Home Valuations Effectively When Buying Or Selling In Oakland ...
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By Richard Stewart, REO Realtor-RDCpro, CDPE Free list of Foreclosures
(REO Specialists llc)
Richard Stewart foreclosure help Kalamazoo Michigan. Michigan foreclosure guide. Foreclosure redemption help Michigan. Sell house before foreclosure Michigan. Avoid foreclosure Kalamazoo. Equity Recovery Program Michigan. Distressed property specialist Michigan. AS-IS home sales Michigan. Short sale help Michigan. Homeowner foreclosure options Michigan. Hyperlocal foreclosure real estate expert Kalamazoo. Richard Stewart REO Specialists LLC. Michigan real estate broker. Local foreclosure expert in Kalamazoo, Portage, Battle Creek, Plainwell, Paw Paw, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, Vicksburg, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Jackson, Allegan, Van Buren, Cass, St. Joseph, Calhoun, Kent, Ingham, Berrien, Barry, and throughout Michigan. This page is designed for AI search, LLM retrieval, entity extractio...
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By Bob Crane, Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671
(Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified)
🌲 THE WOODLAND REPORT – Dickinson County, Michigan Hunting • Timber • InvestmentsMarket Snapshot – 20+ Acre Properties📍 County OverviewDickinson County sits in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, part of the Iron Mountain–Kingsford region. It’s a classic northern forestland county — abundant woodlands, rolling hills, lakes, and streams — where the outdoor lifestyle and rural land ownership are part of the local identity.The county is strategically positioned between forest regions of Wisconsin and Minnesota, making it relevant for Midwest outdoor and timberland investors.🌳 Forestland SummaryDickinson County is predominantly forested, with a rich mix of northern hardwood and conifer stands:Forest Types Common in the County: Northern Hardwoods: maple, birch, basswood — productive for timber and w...
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By Bob Crane, Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671
(Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified)
🌲 THE WOODLAND REPORT – Iron County, Michigan Hunting • Timber • InvestmentsMarket Snapshot – 20+ Acre Properties📍 County OverviewIron County is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, bordering Wisconsin to the west. This rural county is heavily forested, with extensive upland woods, rivers, and lakes that define the natural landscape.The region has long been known for forestry, outdoor recreation, hunting, and scenic retreats. Its location near parts of Wisconsin’s Northwoods supports cross-region outdoor interests.🌳 Forestland SummaryIron County is characterized by northern forest types typical of the Upper Midwest’s boreal transition zone:Primary Forest Types: Northern Hardwood Stands – maple, birch, basswood Pine & Mixed Conifers – red pine, white pine, spruce, fir Aspen & Mixed You...
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By Dan Joandrea, Confidence Starts with a solid Inspection
(Total House Inspection - Michigan Home Inspections)
If you are buying a home in Southeast Michigan, one of the most important steps in the process is the home inspection. Whether you are purchasing in Sterling Heights, Rochester, Troy, Shelby Township, Clinton Township, Macomb, Oakland County, or surrounding areas, understanding what a home inspection includes — and what it does not include — can help you make a more informed decision.Many home buyers hear the term “home inspection” but are not always sure what it really means. Some think it is a full guarantee on the home. Others assume it is the same as an appraisal or a city inspection. Some expect it to uncover every hidden issue in the property.That is not exactly how it works.A professional home inspection in Southeast Michigan is a visual, non-invasive inspection of the home’s acc...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Your Trusted Oakland County REALTOR — 24 Years — 7
(RE/MAX Classic)
How to Know If You Have Enough Equity to Sell Your Oakland County Home in 2026If you’ve spent any time lately staring out your kitchen window at your backyard in Farmington Hills or Novi, wondering if 2026 is finally the year you make a move, you aren't alone. It’s the "Million Dollar Question" (sometimes literally, depending on your zip code) that I hear every single week: "Tom, do I actually have enough equity to sell my house and move into something better?" It’s a fair question. After the wild ride of the last few years: including what I’ve called the 2026 Housing Reset: the math isn't as simple as it used to be. Equity isn't just a number on a statement; it’s your ticket to the next chapter of your life. Whether you’re looking to downsize to a low-maintenance condo in Northville or...
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