A Michigan real estate agency is the best place to start when you're buying or selling a home or piece of Michigan commercial real estate. Find an agent that's experienced with the type of property you're interested in buying or selling. Look for agents licensed in real estate in Michigan that have offices close to you, but extend your search for an agent beyond the local area if you need help with a specific property in a different area or an expert in commercial or other dealings.

Any Michigan real estate agents, appraisers or brokers must have a license. The best way to make sure they're up-to-date with all the real estate training and licensing is to check the state's licensing directory. Another great sign of a qualified Realtor is an affiliation with the Michigan Association of Realtors.

1. Use national directories to develop an initial list of Realtors in your area.

2. Hire a Realtor only after making sure he's well-qualified by checking his state license and affiliation with the Michigan Association of Realtors or any other realty organizations.

3. Look for a Michigan Realtor who specializes in the type of property you are buying or selling.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find local options for real estate agents in Michigan

Start your search as close as possible to the property you are selling or you're looking to buy. The best Realtor will be one who already has experience buying and selling in the area. He'll know the market values, be able to more easily help with pricing and can remain objective based on past transactions.

I recommend: Start by searching the Realtor directory at mLive.com Everything Michigan. The directory includes hundreds of well-qualified commercial Realtors. If you're looking to buy or sell in the Traverse City area, try the Traverse Area Association of Realtors as a starting point in your search. Top-notch Realtors in the state that can help you buy or sell a property include Jack Christenson Realtors, Greenridge Realty Inc., or RE/MAX 1st Realty/Chris Cosco Realtor.

Use online directories to find Michigan Realtors

Find a Michigan Realtor for both commercial and personal property by widening your search using an online directory. Find a directory that narrows your options down by state, county or even city. Most directories list contact information available to anyone without having to pay a fee, so don't waste your money on sites that require you to pay to find a Realtor.

I recommend: Whether you're looking for Detroit real estate, or properties in other areas of the state, start your Realtor search with an online directory like State Wide Real Estate or Realestate ABC.com. Both list Realtors in Michigan with additional information about each so you can easily narrow down your choices.

Check licensing and affiliations for realty companies in Michigan

Once you narrow your search down to a few good Realtors, check to make sure they are as qualified as they tell you they are. Use state licensing information and local organizations to decide which Realtors are more qualified for your transaction needs.

I recommend: Check the credentials of your Realtor in Michigan through the Michigan State Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons license directory, or see if your potential agent is affiliated with the Michigan Association of Realtors by checking their members' directory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of the resources available through the Michigan Association of Realtors. They have many educational tools and tips to help you through the Michigan realty process.