Howell MI real estate market dynamics

On the topic of the "quiet" market in Howell right now, I wanted to share this post on another blog about some views on the Ann Arbor market. Howell is a good distance from Ann Arbor, but the region is still impacted by Ann Arbor's pending loss of its second largest employer, Pfizer.

Here is a link:
Ann Arbor Home Buying: Local market looks "dismal"

Coldwell Banker sued over Title Company Kickbacks

I saw this week that a federal complaint was filed against a Coldwell Banker company for allegedly steering sellers and buyers to the company's Burnet title affiliate without fully disclosing the relationship between the affiliate and the brokerage.

The consumers allege that the Coldwell Banker agent steered them to the company's title company but didn't tell them they could have saved hundreds of dollars had they gone elsewhere.

If you know much about our office you already know that we work to protect buyers from title company cons and improperly disclosed kickbacks. But most home buyers never really understand.

Here is a link to a couple other posts about title company concerns in this area:

Other posts on title company issues and kickbacks

Remember, in Livingston county if you sign a the standard REALTOR purchase contract form you've given the real estate companies permission to take kickbacks. Don't do it, it will cost you money!