Michigan allows homeowners to reduce their property taxes by claiming their home as their primary residence. This is called the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE).

PRE Basics:

• Must be filed with your city or township assessor
• Should be completed as soon as you move in
• Lowers the school operating tax portion of your bill
• Applies only to your primary residence

If you forget to file, you could pay significantly higher taxes until the exemption is activated.

We’ll remind you when it’s time to file and provide the correct form for your municipality.

In Michigan, when a home transfers ownership, the taxable value “uncaps,” meaning your taxes may rise compared to the previous owner’s bill.

This is normal and part of state law.

To understand your future tax bill, use the Michigan Property Tax Estimator:

https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/property/estimator

Your property taxes may increase after purchase due to taxable value uncapping. Filing your PRE helps reduce the impact.

Some Detroit neighborhoods offer a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone – Homestead (NEZ-H) tax reduction for qualifying homeowners.

NEZ-H can significantly lower your property taxes for many years, but it is address- and zone-specific.

We can help you determine whether your new home qualifies and how to apply.

Shortly after closing, be sure to transfer or set up:

• Electric
• Gas
• Water
• Trash & recycling (municipal or private)
• Internet & cable
• Security systems
• Lawn/snow services (if needed)

Many providers allow next-day activation, but scheduling early avoids gaps in service.

Always compare your Closing Disclosure to your earlier Loan Estimate—they should be similar. If something feels off, we’ll help you identify and resolve it immediately.

Your home may come with:

• Appliance warranties
• Roof or HVAC warranties
• Renovation contractor warranties
• Builder warranties (for newer homes)

Registering these products ensures you can use them if repairs are needed.

Even in the safest neighborhoods, it’s smart to update:

• Exterior door locks
• Garage keypads
• Smart home access codes
• Alarm system logins

You never know how many old keys are still out there.

We provide a detailed “After Closing Checklist” so you never have to wonder what comes next—saving you time and helping you protect your investment.

After moving in, confirm your coverage still fits your needs.
You may want to add:

• Sewer backup
• Flood coverage (if recommended)
• Extra liability coverage
• Scheduled personal property (jewelry, collectibles)

Your insurance agent can easily update your policy.

Ongoing maintenance protects your home’s value and prevents expensive repairs.
We recommend:

• Annual furnace & AC servicing
• Gutter cleaning
• Dryer vent cleaning
• Changing filters regularly
• Seasonal roof inspections
• Keeping a maintenance log

Keep your:

• Closing Disclosure
• Recorded deed
• Title insurance policy
• Survey (if provided)
• Warranty documents

Store both physical and digital copies somewhere secure.

We stay with you long after the closing table. Reach out if you need:

• Contractor recommendations
• Help evaluating renovation ideas
• A CMA to track your home’s value
• Advice before refinancing
• A copy of your closing documents
• Market updates for your neighborhood

We’re your ongoing real estate resource—not just your agent during the transaction.

Thinking about updates or renovations? Ask us first. Our team can help you understand which improvements increase value in your neighborhood—and which don’t.

Your first payment typically begins one full month after closing.

Example:

• Closing: March 15
• First payment: May 1

Your Closing Disclosure will show the exact date.

As you pay down your mortgage and home values rise, your equity grows.
Many homeowners choose to:

• Refinance to a lower rate later
• Use equity for renovations
• Explore options for investment property purchases
• Plan for long-term wealth building

If you’re curious about your future home value or equity timeline, just ask—we’ll run the numbers.