Brian Marchi,

you generally still owe realtor commission even if your home sells very quickly. The speed of the sale doesn't affect whether a commission is due; what matters is the type of listing agreement you signed with your agent.

Talk to an Agent FIRST: Before you spend a dime on repairs, get a professional walkthrough. An agent will tell you which fixes actually add value and which are a waste of money. (Bonus: They handle the professional photos for you!) Know Your Numbers: Check your mortgage payoff and get a "Seller's Net Sheet." Knowing exactly what you'll walk away with determines what you can afford for your next dream home.

If you've lived in your home for 20+ years, you've seen the neighborhood change. Maybe the school ratings have dipped, and you're worried it's tanking your home value. Before you pack your boxes, here is the 2026 reality check: The "School Choice" Factor: Today's buyers are savvy. With Michigan's Schools of Choice and growing charter options, families are buying for the neighborhood (the parks, the neighbors, the commute) and choosing the school separately. Your "bad" district isn't the dealbreaker it once was. The Starter Home Goldmine: Affordable starter homes are the highest-demand asset in the current market. First-time buyers are prioritizing a manageable mortgage over a 10/10 school rating, especially if they don't have kids yet! The Funding Turnaround: With record per-pupil funding hitting Michigan schools this year, we are seeing a massive reinvestment in literacy and pre-K programs. The "turnaround" might be closer than you think.