You have spent years making this house a home.
The agent you choose decides what that is worth.

There are over 1,000 agents in Southeast Michigan. Most will list your home and hope for the best. We do something different.

Schedule FREE Walk-Through →

We almost listed with the first agent we met. They never mentioned preparation, appraisal strategy, or anything beyond putting a sign in the yard. We had no idea how much we were about to leave on the table.

Brighton homeowner, 2024
The Gap Nobody Talks About

The Difference Between Listing Your Home and Preparing It

Most agents skip straight to the yard sign. The ones who don't? Their sellers walk away with significantly more money. Here's what that looks like.

The Typical Approach

List and Hope

  • Photos taken on listing day, as-is
  • Price based on a quick comp search
  • No pre-sale improvements identified
  • Appraiser walks in cold with no context
  • Negotiation is reactive, not strategic
The RCG Approach

Prepare, Position, Sell

  • Room-by-room evaluation pinpoints where you land on the Appraisal Spectrum
  • Detailed instructions on exactly what to improve — down to the smallest detail
  • Strategic improvements that boost value AND avoid inspection concerns
  • RCG's design tool kits customized to your home style with color palettes and expert tips
  • Picture-perfect professional photography that makes your home sparkle online

The pre-sale analysis changed everything for us. We thought our home was worth what Zillow said. Joel walked us through what an appraiser would actually see — and showed us exactly where the value gaps were. That one conversation was worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Howell couple, first-time sellers, 2024

The Appraisal Booster Method

A pre-sale strategy most agents skip entirely. Here is what it looks like in practice.

Real Result · Brighton Lakefront

The homeowners were told their property was worth $475,000.

A quick comp search. A standard listing plan. That was the offer from the first agent they talked to.

We saw something different. The lot had lake frontage that wasn't being valued correctly. The interior had bones that our design tool kit could transform. The comps being used were missing key comparable sales.

We built a plan: a room-by-room evaluation, targeted improvements to hit the top of the Appraisal Spectrum, our design tool kit to elevate every room, professional photography and drone work, and a comprehensive comp package for the appraiser.

Brighton lakefront home sold by Realty Concierge Group for $125,000 above initial expectation
Verified ABM Result
$475K
Initial Estimate
$600K
Final Sale Price
26
Days on Market
+$125,000
Above the initial estimate using the Appraisal Booster Method

How It Works

01

Consult

A no-obligation, in-person, room-by-room evaluation from floor to ceiling. We pinpoint where your home lands on the Appraisal Spectrum and tell you exactly what to do to reach the top.

02

Improve

Implement strategic improvements that increase your home's value, boost its appeal, and avoid home inspection concerns before they cost you money.

03

Design

The secret sauce. RCG's customized design tool kits matched to your home style — trendy color palettes, artwork guidance, example photos, and expert tips to elevate every room.

04

Perfect

Red carpet time. Your home gets its picture-perfect photoshoot with RCG photographers who are the best in the business at making properties sparkle online and in print.

~100
Homes Sold in 2024
98.7%
Sale-to-List Ratio
42 Days
Average on Market
100%
Sell-Through Rate

See Your Numbers

Real Michigan closing costs. Transparent fees. Put in your price and see what you walk away with.

💰

Understand Your Real Costs Before You List

Most sellers don't know what they'll actually walk away with until closing day. Our commission calculator breaks down every cost — buyer compensation, listing fee, title policy — so you can plan with confidence, not surprises.

We Know Your Market

Click any area for local insights, lake communities, and neighborhood expertise.

Common Questions

We start with a pre-sale analysis of your home through an appraiser's lens. We identify value gaps, coordinate the improvements with the highest ROI, provide our customized design tool kits and arrange professional photography, and provide appraisers with comprehensive documentation. The result is a home positioned to appraise at its true maximum value.
Everything from start to finish. Your 3% covers the full Appraisal Booster Method consultation, room-by-room appraisal analysis, improvement guidance, our customized design tool kits, professional photography, targeted digital marketing, MLS listing, showing coordination, buyer outreach, appraisal documentation package, negotiation, and transaction management through closing. No hidden fees, no add-ons, no surprises.
3% of the sale price. You choose the buyer-agent compensation (0–3%). No hidden fees, no junk fees. Everything is transparent from day one.
Every home is different. During your strategy session, we provide a realistic timeline based on your property, location, and current market conditions.
Not necessarily. Our pre-sale analysis identifies which improvements deliver the best return and which you can skip. Some homes sell best as-is to the right buyer. We coordinate everything with our contractor network so you never have to manage the work yourself.
All of Southeast Michigan: Brighton, Howell, Hartland in Livingston County. Ann Arbor, Dexter, Chelsea, Saline in Washtenaw County. Novi, Northville, South Lyon, Milford, West Bloomfield, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Plymouth in Oakland and Wayne Counties.
We sell homes in all conditions. During the strategy session we assess what repairs would deliver ROI and what to skip. The approach is always tailored to your situation.
The Appraisal Booster Method is a pre-sale strategy most agents skip entirely. Instead of listing and hoping, we analyze, prepare, and position your home to appraise at maximum value before it hits the market.
Your Next Step

Preparation is the difference between what your home is worth and what you walk away with.

One conversation. No obligation. No pressure. Just clarity on what your home could be worth with the right strategy behind it.

Free Strategy Session

30 minutes that could be worth tens of thousands. We walk your home room by room, pinpoint where you land on the Appraisal Spectrum, and show you exactly what it takes to reach the top.

Book Your Session → Call 800-417-0117

Even if we had decided not to list with RCG, the strategy session alone would have been worth it. We walked out understanding our home, our market, and our options in a way no other agent ever explained to us.

Novi homeowner, 2024

Selling Your Brighton Home

Brighton sits at the crossroads of Livingston County's lake lifestyle and metro Detroit's commuter belt. That dual appeal is your advantage — if it's positioned correctly.

What Brighton Buyers Are Paying For

Brighton buyers fall into two camps: lake lifestyle seekers willing to pay a premium for waterfront or lake-access properties, and commuter families drawn by Brighton Area Schools and the I-96/US-23 corridor. Both groups are comparison shopping across Hartland, Howell, and South Lyon — which means your home needs to stand out on day one, not day thirty.

  • Lake proximity and water access drive 15-25% price premiums when documented properly
  • Brighton Area Schools ranking directly influences appraised value in BAS boundaries
  • Walkability to downtown Brighton restaurants and shops is increasingly valued by younger buyers
  • Finished basements and updated kitchens are the two features Brighton buyers mention most
  • Homes on Woodland Lake, Island Lake, and the Huron River chain command the highest per-square-foot prices

Common Brighton Inspection Issues We Catch First

We've walked hundreds of Brighton homes. These are the issues that kill deals or cost sellers thousands in last-minute concessions:

  • Septic systems in rural Brighton parcels — we verify function and documentation before listing
  • Well water testing and radon levels, especially in homes built before 2000
  • Crawlspace moisture in homes near lakes or low-lying areas
  • Aging roofs and siding that look fine from the street but fail close inspection
  • Deck and dock structures that haven't been permitted or inspected

The ABM Advantage in Brighton

Brighton's market is competitive but price-sensitive. Buyers have options. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures your home doesn't just attract offers — it appraises at or above the contract price. We prepare a comp package specific to your neighborhood, document every improvement, and give the appraiser a roadmap to your home's highest defensible value.

Selling Your Ann Arbor Home

Ann Arbor is one of Michigan's most competitive real estate markets. University-driven demand, a thriving tech sector, and some of the state's top-rated schools create a deep buyer pool — but also high expectations.

What Ann Arbor Buyers Expect

Ann Arbor buyers are educated, research-driven, and comparing your home to every listing within a 20-minute drive. They know what homes sell for on their target streets. Underprepared listings get passed over fast.

  • University of Michigan proximity matters — homes in the Burns Park, Old West Side, and Kerrytown neighborhoods carry significant location premiums
  • Ann Arbor Public Schools boundaries are a primary search filter for family buyers
  • Walkability scores and bike infrastructure access increasingly drive pricing in central neighborhoods
  • Mid-century and historic homes need careful preparation — buyers love character but fear hidden costs
  • Energy efficiency upgrades (windows, insulation, HVAC) resonate strongly with Ann Arbor's sustainability-minded buyers

Common Ann Arbor Inspection Issues We Catch First

Ann Arbor's housing stock ranges from 1920s bungalows to new construction. Each era has its pitfalls:

  • Knob-and-tube wiring and outdated electrical panels in pre-1950s homes
  • Foundation settling and basement water intrusion, especially in Huron River-adjacent areas
  • Lead paint disclosure requirements in older homes
  • Roof and gutter issues from mature tree canopy coverage
  • Unpermitted additions and basement finishes that don't match tax records

The ABM Advantage in Ann Arbor

In a market where buyers do their homework, your home's preparation has to be flawless. The Appraisal Booster Method gives Ann Arbor sellers a documented, defensible pricing strategy backed by a comp package that speaks the appraiser's language. In a city where $10K can separate a winning offer from a failed appraisal, that preparation is everything.

Selling Your Novi Home

Novi combines top-rated schools, corporate proximity, and diverse neighborhoods ranging from established subdivisions to luxury new builds. It's a market where preparation separates average results from exceptional ones.

What Novi Buyers Are Paying For

Novi draws a broad buyer pool — families relocating for Novi Community Schools, professionals working along the I-96 and I-275 corridors, and international buyers drawn by the city's diverse community.

  • Novi Community Schools drive family buyer demand — boundary placement can swing value significantly
  • Proximity to Twelve Oaks Mall, Suburban Collection Showplace, and Providence Park adds lifestyle appeal
  • Subdivision reputation matters — buyers in Novi research HOA quality, amenities, and neighborhood maintenance
  • Updated kitchens and primary suites are the top two features Novi buyers prioritize
  • Homes backing to commons, ponds, or wooded areas carry measurable premiums

Common Novi Inspection Issues We Catch First

Novi's mix of 1980s-2000s builds and newer construction each present different challenges:

  • HVAC systems in 1990s-era homes often need replacement — we identify this before it becomes a negotiation point
  • Polybutylene piping in certain Novi subdivisions built in the late 1980s
  • Sump pump failures and basement seepage during spring thaws
  • Exterior drainage grading that's shifted over decades
  • Roof age verification — many Novi roofs are hitting the 20-year replacement window simultaneously

The ABM Advantage in Novi

Novi buyers compare across subdivisions ruthlessly. A home in Chase Farms gets compared to Dunbarton Pines, which gets compared to Broadmoor Park. The Appraisal Booster Method positions your home at the top of its specific comp set — not just the Novi market broadly, but your neighborhood, your street, your price band.

Selling Your Northville Home

Northville's historic downtown charm, top-rated schools, and established neighborhoods make it one of Southeast Michigan's most sought-after addresses. That demand works in your favor — when your home is prepared to match buyer expectations.

What Northville Buyers Are Paying For

Northville buyers are typically move-up buyers with specific expectations. They've outgrown their starter home and they're investing in a community, not just a house.

  • Northville Public Schools are a primary driver — many buyers won't consider homes outside NPS boundaries
  • Historic downtown walkability commands premium pricing for homes within walking distance
  • Lot size and privacy matter — Northville buyers value established landscaping and mature trees
  • Finished lower levels with egress windows, bathrooms, and entertainment space are expected, not bonus
  • Curb appeal carries outsized weight in a community known for its aesthetic standards

Common Northville Inspection Issues We Catch First

Northville's desirable housing stock includes everything from 1940s cape cods to modern estate homes. We know what inspectors flag:

  • Aging infrastructure in Northville's historic homes — plumbing, electrical, and insulation gaps
  • Window replacement needs in homes with original wood-frame windows
  • Grading and drainage issues on larger lots with mature landscaping
  • Chimney and fireplace inspection requirements for older masonry
  • Well and septic in Northville Township properties outside city water/sewer

The ABM Advantage in Northville

Northville buyers expect move-in ready. They're not looking for projects. The Appraisal Booster Method transforms your home into exactly what these buyers want to see — and gives the appraiser an ironclad comp package that reflects the true value of a well-prepared Northville property.

Selling Your South Lyon Home

South Lyon offers the small-town feel that Southeast Michigan buyers are willing to pay a premium for — downtown charm, strong community identity, and access to the metro area without the metro price tag.

What South Lyon Buyers Are Paying For

South Lyon buyers are choosing lifestyle over location. They want space, community, and value — and they're willing to drive a few extra minutes to get it.

  • South Lyon Community Schools attract families relocating from more expensive Northville and Novi
  • Downtown South Lyon's restaurants, breweries, and shops add walkable lifestyle appeal
  • Larger lot sizes and newer construction in developing subdivisions draw young families
  • Horse properties and acreage parcels command significant premiums from the right buyer pool
  • Proximity to the Huron Valley Rail Trail and Island Lake Recreation Area adds recreation value

Common South Lyon Inspection Issues We Catch First

South Lyon's mix of newer subdivisions and rural properties means varied inspection concerns:

  • Well water quality and flow rate testing for properties on well systems
  • Septic system age and function verification — many South Lyon septics are approaching replacement age
  • New construction warranty items that sellers overlook during the warranty period
  • Outbuilding and barn condition on rural parcels
  • Grading and drainage in newer subdivisions where landscaping hasn't fully established

The ABM Advantage in South Lyon

South Lyon's market is growing, and buyers have increasing options as new construction expands. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures your existing home competes with builder-fresh inventory by highlighting the value new homes can't offer — established landscaping, finished spaces, and a known neighborhood track record.

Selling Your Howell Home

Howell is Livingston County's county seat and cultural center — a community where small-town authenticity meets growing demand from buyers priced out of Ann Arbor and Brighton.

What Howell Buyers Are Paying For

Howell buyers are value-conscious but quality-driven. They're often comparing Howell to Brighton, Hartland, and Fowlerville, looking for the best combination of schools, community, and home quality.

  • Howell Public Schools and Livingston County amenities anchor family buyer interest
  • Historic downtown Howell's walkable restaurants and events create strong community appeal
  • Lake Chemung and Thompson Lake properties carry water-access premiums
  • Acreage and rural properties draw buyers seeking space without sacrificing convenience
  • The I-96 corridor provides commuter access that keeps Howell in play for metro Detroit professionals

Common Howell Inspection Issues We Catch First

Howell's diverse property types — from downtown Victorians to rural ranch homes — each have specific concerns:

  • Older homes near downtown often have foundation, plumbing, and electrical updates needed
  • Rural properties require well, septic, and outbuilding inspections that can delay closing
  • Moisture issues in basements and crawlspaces, particularly in spring
  • Heating system age and efficiency — many Howell homes still run original furnaces from the 1990s
  • Roof condition on homes with heavy tree coverage

The ABM Advantage in Howell

In Howell's value-driven market, every dollar of preparation shows up in the sale price. The Appraisal Booster Method catches the issues that cost Howell sellers money at the negotiation table and positions your home to appraise at the top of your comp range — not the middle.

Selling Your West Bloomfield Home

West Bloomfield's lakefront properties, mature neighborhoods, and proximity to top Oakland County amenities create a market where buyers expect premium quality — and pay for it when the home delivers.

What West Bloomfield Buyers Are Paying For

West Bloomfield buyers are typically move-up or lateral-move buyers who know exactly what they want. Lake access, school quality, and home condition drive every decision.

  • Lakefront and lake-access properties on Cass Lake, Pine Lake, and Walnut Lake command the market's highest prices
  • West Bloomfield School District and private school proximity influence buyer targeting
  • Updated kitchens, primary suites, and outdoor living spaces are baseline expectations, not upgrades
  • The Jewish community connection drives consistent demand in specific West Bloomfield neighborhoods
  • Lot privacy, mature landscaping, and wooded settings carry measurable premiums

Common West Bloomfield Inspection Issues We Catch First

West Bloomfield's housing stock spans several decades, and lake properties add unique considerations:

  • Seawall and dock condition on waterfront properties — these can cost $20K+ if flagged post-offer
  • Lakefront erosion and drainage that affects both property value and insurance
  • Aging HVAC and plumbing in 1970s-1990s builds that dominate many West Bloomfield subdivisions
  • Pool and spa equipment condition and compliance with current safety codes
  • Basement moisture in homes near lakes or low-lying terrain

The ABM Advantage in West Bloomfield

West Bloomfield's luxury and upper-bracket homes require a different preparation strategy. The Appraisal Booster Method for West Bloomfield focuses on documenting the premium features — lake access, custom finishes, lot characteristics — that generic appraisals often undervalue. We build the case for your home's highest price before the appraiser arrives.

Selling Your Milford Home

Milford's village charm, natural beauty, and tight-knit community make it one of Oakland County's most distinctive markets. Buyers come here for a lifestyle — your job is to show them your home fits it.

What Milford Buyers Are Paying For

Milford buyers are lifestyle-driven. They're choosing Milford over Commerce, Highland, and White Lake for specific reasons — and your home needs to speak to those reasons.

  • Downtown Milford's walkable shops, restaurants, and Huron River access drive significant demand
  • Kensington Metropark and Proud Lake Recreation Area proximity adds year-round recreation value
  • Milford Schools' strong reputation keeps family buyers focused on in-district properties
  • Character homes with acreage, barns, and equestrian potential attract a specific premium buyer
  • The Huron Valley Rail Trail and outdoor lifestyle access are increasingly cited by relocating buyers

Common Milford Inspection Issues We Catch First

Milford's charming older homes and rural properties require specific attention:

  • Well and septic systems on Milford Township properties — testing and documentation are critical
  • Historic home structural concerns including foundation, roof framing, and load-bearing modifications
  • Outbuilding and barn condition on properties with acreage
  • Flooding and drainage patterns near the Huron River corridor
  • Unpermitted improvements in homes that have been renovated over decades

The ABM Advantage in Milford

Milford's market rewards authenticity and preparation equally. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures your home's unique character — whether it's a downtown Victorian or a 10-acre horse property — is documented and priced to reflect its true value in a market where cookie-cutter comps don't tell the full story.

Selling Your Hartland Home

Hartland sits at the intersection of Livingston and Oakland counties with a school district that draws families from across the region. That demand is your opportunity — when your home is prepared to capture it.

What Hartland Buyers Are Paying For

Hartland buyers are almost always school-driven. The Hartland Consolidated Schools district is the primary reason families choose Hartland over neighboring Brighton, Howell, or Highland.

  • Hartland Consolidated Schools ranking is the single biggest value driver in this market
  • Larger lots and newer subdivision homes draw families wanting space and modern amenities
  • Lake access on Dunham, Maxfield, Handy, and other Hartland lakes adds water-recreation premiums
  • The US-23/M-59 interchange gives Hartland commuter access that supports pricing
  • Rural character with subdivision convenience — Hartland buyers want both

Common Hartland Inspection Issues We Catch First

Hartland's semi-rural character means properties face specific inspection considerations:

  • Septic system condition and compliance — Livingston County has strict requirements
  • Well water testing including arsenic levels common in the Hartland aquifer area
  • Drainage and grading on larger lots where water management matters
  • Roof and siding condition on homes exposed to open-field wind patterns
  • Outbuilding and garage condition on properties with pole barns or detached structures

The ABM Advantage in Hartland

Hartland's school-driven market means you're competing with every home in the district, not just your neighborhood. The Appraisal Booster Method positions your home against district-wide comps and ensures your specific property's advantages — lot size, condition, location within the district — are clearly documented for both buyers and appraisers.

Selling Your Plymouth Home

Plymouth's historic downtown, walkable streets, and strong community identity make it one of Wayne County's most premium addresses. Buyers pay for the Plymouth lifestyle — your preparation determines how much.

What Plymouth Buyers Are Paying For

Plymouth buyers are choosing a community as much as a home. They're drawn by downtown, the schools, and the neighborhood character that makes Plymouth feel like a small town inside a metro area.

  • Downtown Plymouth walkability — proximity to restaurants, shops, and events directly impacts pricing
  • Plymouth-Canton Community Schools maintain consistent family buyer demand
  • Historic home character in Old Village and established Plymouth neighborhoods commands premiums
  • Updated systems in older homes (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) remove buyer hesitation
  • Outdoor spaces, patios, and landscaped yards matter more in a walkable community

Common Plymouth Inspection Issues We Catch First

Plymouth's diverse housing stock — from 1930s bungalows to modern builds — means varied concerns:

  • Older homes in Plymouth proper often need electrical panel and plumbing updates
  • Basement waterproofing in older homes, especially those near the Rouge River
  • Window and insulation efficiency in pre-1960s construction
  • Garage and driveway condition in homes with original concrete from the 1950s-60s
  • Tree root intrusion into sewer lines in mature, tree-lined neighborhoods

The ABM Advantage in Plymouth

Plymouth's premium market means buyers have high expectations and the budget to walk away from unprepared homes. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures your Plymouth property meets those expectations before the first showing — and gives the appraiser data to support the premium Plymouth commands.

Selling Your Canton Home

Canton is one of Michigan's largest townships with a housing market as diverse as its community. From starter condos to luxury estates, preparation and positioning determine where your home lands in Canton's broad price spectrum.

What Canton Buyers Are Paying For

Canton's buyer pool is enormous and diverse — first-time buyers, growing families, downsizers, and international relocations all compete in this market.

  • Plymouth-Canton Schools drive family demand across Canton's subdivisions
  • Subdivision reputation varies widely — Cherry Hill Village, Sunflower, and Pheasant Run carry different buyer expectations
  • Condo and townhome buyers prioritize HOA health, reserves, and special assessment history
  • Ford Road and I-275 commercial corridor proximity is a double-edged factor — convenience vs. noise
  • Updated interiors separate Canton resale homes from competing new construction in Van Buren and Belleville

Common Canton Inspection Issues We Catch First

Canton's 1980s-2010s housing stock presents era-specific challenges:

  • Sump pump and basement moisture in Canton's flat terrain — drainage is everything
  • Roof age in subdivisions where entire neighborhoods need replacement in the same window
  • HVAC efficiency and age — many Canton homes still run original builder-grade equipment
  • Condo-specific concerns including shared walls, common element responsibility, and reserve adequacy
  • Driveway and sidewalk settling in clay-heavy Canton soil

The ABM Advantage in Canton

Canton's volume market means your home is competing with dozens of similar properties at any given time. The Appraisal Booster Method differentiates your listing from the crowd — specific improvements, design upgrades, and professional photography that make buyers stop scrolling and start scheduling showings.

Selling Your Dexter Home

Dexter has evolved from a quiet farming community into one of Washtenaw County's most desirable addresses. That growth means strong demand — and buyers who know exactly what they want.

What Dexter Buyers Are Paying For

Dexter buyers are typically families choosing between Dexter, Chelsea, Saline, and Ann Arbor. They want Ann Arbor-adjacent quality at a price point that buys more home and more land.

  • Dexter Community Schools drive the majority of family buyer interest in the district
  • Downtown Dexter's small-town character and growing restaurant scene add lifestyle value
  • Larger lots and rural properties with acreage attract buyers priced out of Ann Arbor proper
  • The Huron River, Hudson Mills Metropark, and recreation access add measurable value
  • Newer subdivision homes in Dexter compete directly with Ann Arbor's western developments

Common Dexter Inspection Issues We Catch First

Dexter's mix of farmhouses, mid-century ranches, and modern subdivisions each need different attention:

  • Well and septic dominance in rural Dexter — condition documentation is essential for closing
  • Older farmhouse structures may have foundation, wiring, or insulation concerns
  • Flood plain proximity near the Huron River corridor requires disclosure and affects insurance
  • Newer construction warranty items that sellers should address before listing
  • Outbuildings, barns, and accessory structures that need condition verification

The ABM Advantage in Dexter

Dexter's growing reputation means appraisals sometimes lag behind actual market value. The Appraisal Booster Method bridges that gap with documented improvements, market-specific comp packages, and preparation that demonstrates to appraisers why Dexter properties command the prices they do.

Selling Your Chelsea Home

Chelsea's distinctive blend of small-town charm, arts culture, and natural beauty creates a market where the right buyers pay premium prices — when the home matches the community's character.

What Chelsea Buyers Are Paying For

Chelsea buyers are choosing a lifestyle that's different from suburban Southeast Michigan. They value authenticity, outdoor access, and community identity.

  • Chelsea School District reputation drives family buyer demand from across the region
  • Downtown Chelsea's Purple Rose Theatre, restaurants, and shops create true walkable lifestyle value
  • Rural properties with acreage, barns, and agricultural character attract a specific premium buyer
  • Proximity to Waterloo Recreation Area and statewide trail systems adds recreation appeal
  • Historic home character in Chelsea's village center commands buyer attention and premium pricing

Common Chelsea Inspection Issues We Catch First

Chelsea's varied housing stock requires specific preparation:

  • Rural properties on well and septic need thorough documentation for buyer financing requirements
  • Historic village homes may have outdated electrical, plumbing, or structural elements
  • Agricultural buildings and outbuildings need condition assessment before listing
  • Flooding and drainage patterns on properties near Mill Creek or low-lying farmland
  • Energy efficiency concerns in older homes that buyers factor into their cost calculations

The ABM Advantage in Chelsea

Chelsea's market is smaller and more relationship-driven than metro Detroit suburbs. Every listing gets scrutinized closely. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures your Chelsea home makes a strong first impression and sustains that impression through inspection, appraisal, and closing.

Selling Your Saline Home

Saline consistently ranks among Michigan's most desirable communities. Outstanding schools, a charming downtown, and proximity to Ann Arbor create a seller's market — but only for homes that are properly prepared.

What Saline Buyers Are Paying For

Saline buyers are typically families who've done extensive research. They're choosing Saline specifically for the schools and the community, and they arrive with clear expectations.

  • Saline Area Schools are the primary driver — consistently ranked among Michigan's best
  • Downtown Saline's walkable restaurants, shops, and community events add lifestyle premium
  • Established subdivisions with mature landscaping attract buyers wanting move-in ready homes
  • Proximity to Ann Arbor and the US-12 corridor provides commuter convenience without city taxes
  • Quality of home updates matters significantly — Saline buyers can spot deferred maintenance instantly

Common Saline Inspection Issues We Catch First

Saline's housing ranges from farmhouses to newer subdivision homes:

  • Foundation and basement water concerns in Saline's clay-heavy soil
  • Aging HVAC and water heaters in 1990s-2000s builds approaching replacement age
  • Well and septic systems in Saline Township properties outside city utilities
  • Driveway and garage floor condition in homes with original concrete
  • Roof and siding age verification in subdivisions built in clusters

The ABM Advantage in Saline

Saline's competitive market rewards perfection. Buyers here compare closely and expect quality. The Appraisal Booster Method positions your home at the top of Saline's comp range by documenting improvements, addressing inspection concerns proactively, and building an appraisal case that reflects the true Saline premium.

Selling Your Birmingham Home

Birmingham is Southeast Michigan's premier walkable downtown address. Buyers pay top dollar here — but they demand perfection. Every detail matters in a market where $50K can separate two homes on the same block.

What Birmingham Buyers Are Paying For

Birmingham buyers are among the most discerning in Michigan. They're buying an address, a lifestyle, and a home that reflects both.

  • Downtown Birmingham walkability to Maple Road shops, restaurants, and cultural venues drives premium pricing
  • Birmingham Public Schools attract families who won't consider alternatives
  • Lot value in Birmingham often exceeds the structure value — teardown-and-rebuild activity is constant
  • Renovation quality matters enormously — Birmingham buyers can tell builder-grade from custom
  • Outdoor living spaces, landscaping design, and curb appeal carry outsized weight in this market

Common Birmingham Inspection Issues We Catch First

Birmingham's housing stock ranges from 1920s Tudors to modern rebuilds:

  • Legacy infrastructure in pre-war homes — electrical, plumbing, and HVAC modernization requirements
  • Basement water management in homes with original foundations
  • Lead paint and asbestos considerations in pre-1978 homes
  • Window replacement needs that affect both energy efficiency and street-level appearance
  • Garage and driveway condition in homes where every exterior detail is scrutinized

The ABM Advantage in Birmingham

In Birmingham's luxury market, the Appraisal Booster Method focuses on documenting premium finishes, custom work, and location advantages that standard appraisals undervalue. We build a case for your home's highest defensible price — backed by data the appraiser can't ignore.

Selling Your Bloomfield Hills Home

Bloomfield Hills represents the pinnacle of Michigan's residential real estate. Estate properties, executive homes, and legacy addresses require a selling strategy as refined as the properties themselves.

What Bloomfield Hills Buyers Are Paying For

Bloomfield Hills buyers are purchasing prestige, privacy, and legacy. The buyer pool is smaller but deeply qualified, and they take their time.

  • Address prestige and zip code recognition carry tangible value in Bloomfield Hills
  • Bloomfield Hills Schools attract families prioritizing Michigan's top-rated public education
  • Estate lot size, privacy, and mature landscape design are primary value drivers
  • Custom architectural details, high-end finishes, and designer renovations are expected
  • Cranbrook and cultural institution proximity adds intellectual and social cache

Common Bloomfield Hills Inspection Issues We Catch First

Estate properties present unique inspection and preparation challenges:

  • Complex mechanical systems — multi-zone HVAC, whole-house generators, pool equipment — require documentation
  • Estate-sized roof systems with multiple intersections, valleys, and flat sections need professional assessment
  • Circular driveways, retaining walls, and exterior hardscape condition affect first impressions
  • Tennis courts, pools, and outbuildings each require separate condition evaluation
  • Older estate homes may have undocumented additions or renovations spanning decades

The ABM Advantage in Bloomfield Hills

Bloomfield Hills properties don't fit standard comp models. The Appraisal Booster Method for estate properties includes detailed documentation of custom features, architectural significance, and lot characteristics that differentiate your property from the handful of true comps available. In a market where comps are scarce, preparation is everything.

Selling in Livingston County

Livingston County — from Brighton and Howell to Hartland, Fowlerville, and Pinckney — offers a quality of life that metro Detroit buyers are increasingly willing to pay for. County-wide, preparation determines whether you capture that demand.

What Livingston County Buyers Are Paying For

Livingston County draws buyers seeking space, schools, and value. They're comparing across the county's communities and choosing based on specific lifestyle priorities.

  • School district boundaries (Brighton, Hartland, Howell, Pinckney) are the primary sorting mechanism for family buyers
  • Lake access across the county's 60+ lakes creates significant pricing stratification
  • Rural acreage and agricultural properties attract a specific buyer segment willing to pay premium prices
  • The I-96 and US-23 corridors make Livingston County commutable to Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Lansing
  • County-wide, newer construction competes with established homes — preparation bridges that gap

Common Livingston County Inspection Issues We Catch First

Livingston County's semi-rural character means sellers face specific concerns:

  • Well and septic systems are standard outside city limits — testing and documentation are non-negotiable
  • Radon levels in Livingston County trend higher than state averages — testing removes buyer uncertainty
  • Rural properties with outbuildings, barns, and fencing need condition documentation
  • Flood plain and wetland proximity affects both value and insurance requirements
  • Arsenic in well water is documented in portions of Livingston County — proactive testing shows transparency

The ABM Advantage in Livingston County

Livingston County's breadth means your home competes with properties across multiple communities. The Appraisal Booster Method narrows that comparison to your specific advantage — your school district, your lake access, your neighborhood — and builds a comp package that positions your home at the top of its actual competitive set.

Selling in Washtenaw County

Washtenaw County's market runs from Ann Arbor's competitive core to Dexter, Saline, Chelsea, and Ypsilanti — each with its own buyer profile and pricing dynamics. County-wide expertise matters.

What Washtenaw County Buyers Are Paying For

Washtenaw County buyers range from University of Michigan-connected professionals to families seeking top school districts to first-time buyers finding value in emerging neighborhoods.

  • University of Michigan and its healthcare system drive consistent professional relocation demand
  • School district choice (Ann Arbor, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea, Lincoln) is the primary family buyer filter
  • Walkability and urban access premium in Ann Arbor contrasts with space and value appeal in outlying communities
  • The Huron River corridor and county park system add recreation value across the market
  • Ypsilanti and eastern Washtenaw are emerging markets where preparation yields outsized returns

Common Washtenaw County Inspection Issues

Washtenaw County's housing diversity means inspection concerns vary significantly by location:

  • Ann Arbor's older housing stock brings different challenges than Saline's newer subdivisions
  • Well and septic systems in township properties across the county require proactive documentation
  • University-area rentals being sold as owner-occupied homes need condition upgrades that matter to buyers
  • Flood plain proximity near the Huron River and its tributaries requires disclosure
  • Agricultural properties and rural lots have zoning and use considerations that affect value

The ABM Advantage in Washtenaw County

Washtenaw County's market diversity requires neighborhood-level expertise. The Appraisal Booster Method positions your property within its specific micro-market — your street, your school district, your buyer profile — rather than relying on broad county-wide comparisons that can undervalue well-prepared homes.

Selling in Oakland County

Oakland County is Michigan's wealthiest and most diverse residential market — from Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills to Milford and South Lyon. RCG brings neighborhood-level expertise across the county.

What Oakland County Buyers Are Paying For

Oakland County's buyer pool is enormous and segmented. What drives value in Novi is different from West Bloomfield is different from Milford. County-wide knowledge matters.

  • School district reputation varies significantly across Oakland County communities — boundary placement drives pricing
  • Lake access on Oakland County's premium lakes (Cass, Pine, Walnut, Upper Straits) commands top-tier pricing
  • Corporate corridor proximity along I-696, I-275, and Telegraph influences professional buyer targeting
  • Community identity — Oakland County buyers choose specific cities for specific reasons
  • HOA quality and subdivision reputation carry measurable value in Oakland County's established neighborhoods

Common Oakland County Inspection Issues

Oakland County's varied housing stock and topography create location-specific concerns:

  • Lakefront properties need seawall, dock, and shoreline documentation that affects both value and insurance
  • Aging infrastructure in 1960s-1980s builds that dominate many Oakland County subdivisions
  • Radon testing in Oakland County's varied terrain — levels fluctuate significantly by location
  • Pool, spa, and outdoor structure safety compliance for luxury and upper-bracket properties
  • Municipal vs. well/septic transitions as Oakland County communities expand water and sewer access

The ABM Advantage in Oakland County

Oakland County's competitive landscape means your home is always being compared. The Appraisal Booster Method ensures those comparisons work in your favor — specific preparation, documented improvements, and an appraisal package built for your exact sub-market within Oakland County's broad spectrum.

Selling Your Barton Hills Home

Barton Hills is one of Michigan's most exclusive residential enclaves — a private village of fewer than 400 homes nestled along the Huron River adjacent to Ann Arbor. Selling here requires a strategy as unique as the community itself.

What Barton Hills Buyers Are Paying For

Barton Hills buyers are seeking something that essentially doesn't exist anywhere else in Michigan — a private, wooded, riverfront community with Ann Arbor walkability and world-class university access.

  • Village exclusivity and limited inventory create scarcity value — fewer than 400 total homes exist in Barton Hills
  • Huron River frontage and Barton Pond access add irreplaceable natural amenity value
  • Ann Arbor Public Schools combined with Barton Hills' private village governance offer the best of both
  • Mature, wooded lots with privacy and established landscaping define the community's character
  • University of Michigan proximity draws academic and medical professionals who value the intellectual community

Common Barton Hills Inspection Issues We Catch First

Barton Hills' mature properties and natural setting present specific preparation needs:

  • Mid-century and vintage homes often need mechanical system documentation — HVAC, electrical, plumbing age verification
  • Huron River proximity and flood plain considerations require disclosure and affect insurance
  • Mature tree canopy impacts roof condition, gutter systems, and natural light
  • Private road maintenance responsibilities and village assessments need clear documentation for buyers
  • Legacy septic systems and well connections in a community where municipal utility access varies

The ABM Advantage in Barton Hills

Barton Hills doesn't have a standard comp set. With fewer than 400 homes and only a handful of sales per year, every listing needs a custom appraisal strategy. The Appraisal Booster Method for Barton Hills builds a pricing narrative that captures the community's scarcity value, riverfront premiums, and unique character — factors that standard comparable sales analysis consistently undervalues.

Selling in Ingham County

Ingham County — home to Lansing, East Lansing, and Michigan State University — offers a market driven by government, education, and healthcare employment. Strong institutional demand means consistent buyers when your home is positioned correctly.

What Ingham County Buyers Are Paying For

Ingham County buyers are driven by proximity to Michigan's capital, Michigan State University, and the region's healthcare systems. The buyer pool is steady and diverse.

  • Michigan State University drives constant professional and academic relocation demand
  • State government employment in Lansing creates a reliable buyer base with stable purchasing power
  • East Lansing and Haslett school districts attract family buyers prioritizing education
  • Okemos, Haslett, and Mason draw move-up buyers seeking quality schools and established neighborhoods
  • Affordability relative to Washtenaw and Oakland counties attracts buyers seeking value with quality

Common Ingham County Inspection Issues We Catch First

Ingham County's varied housing — from Lansing's urban core to Mason's rural properties — presents specific concerns:

  • Older Lansing homes often have infrastructure updates needed — plumbing, electrical, foundation
  • Basement water management is critical in Ingham County's flat terrain and clay soil
  • Well and septic systems in township properties outside city utility service areas
  • Heating system age and efficiency — Ingham County winters demand reliable HVAC
  • Rental conversion properties near MSU being sold to owner-occupants need condition upgrades

The ABM Advantage in Ingham County

Ingham County's institutional buyer base means consistent demand but price-conscious decision-making. The Appraisal Booster Method maximizes your return by identifying the improvements that matter most to Ingham County buyers, addressing inspection concerns before they become negotiation leverage, and building a comp package that captures your home's full value.

Net Proceeds Calculator

See exactly what you'll walk away with at closing

%

You decide. Common range is 2–3%.

RCG Listing Fee (3%) Includes ABM consultation, room-by-room appraisal analysis, improvement guidance, design tool kits, professional photography, targeted marketing, appraisal documentation, and full-service negotiation through closing$15,000
Buyer Agent Fee (2.5%)$12,500
Michigan Transfer Tax ($8.60/$1,000)$4,300
Owner's Title Policy$2,800
Total Costs$34,600
Estimated Net Proceeds$465,400

All real estate commissions are negotiable and not set by law. Estimates only. Does not include seller concessions, inspection repairs, HOA fees, or special assessments.

Want your exact number? We prepare a personalized net sheet at no cost.