The Macomb County Michigan Real Estate Blog

Buyer Myths; You get a better deal if you deal direct with the listing agent.

Twice this week, I received a call from a potential buyer viewing my website asking if I was the listing agent of the property they were inquiring about. I responded no. I explained how I share listings on my site via IDX.

The potential buyer was adamant in dealing directly with the listing agent. I asked why? His opinion as summarized went like this: "You cut out the middle man", "The listing agent knows exactly what the seller will take"; "The listing agent will work harder to make the sale happen because he wants the deal to come together";" The listing agent will work more because he will get more commission."

I tried to explain the importance of having a buyer's agent, but he wasn't listening. He wasn't interested in learning that in Michigan ALL agents by default work for the seller unless represented by a buyers agent. He was defensive and insisted on obtaining the listing agents phone number, which I obliged

Is it just me, or is this the new norm being perpetuated by buyers?

Decker Drain, in Shelby Township, Michigan has recently been cleaned up. The total cost of the clean-up project was about $220,000. Shelby Township officials contributed $98,661 towards the clean up through Community Block Grants. Work crews cleaned the drain, located near 22 Mile Road and Hayes Roads. The cleaning consisted of removing brush, trees, phragmites and other material.

Phragmites are an invasive species of aquatic vegetation that can take over drains, lakes and wetlands and can choke out valuable plant life. Phragmites also deters wildlife from nesting and using affected waterways.

The first phase of the clean-up was completed last summer when 2,200 feet was cleared from just north of 22 Mile Road. The second phase meanders west nearly ½ mile towards Schoenherr Road.

The Macomb County Public Works Commissioner, Anthony Marrocco stated that Phase 1 was now very clean and fast moving. He mentioned that residents can expect Phase 2 to be just as successful. The clean out will be a big benefit to the residents and the environment. Man-Con Michigan, a construction firm performed the work.