📅 2026 Update: Changes in Michigan Real Estate Laws

Since the original article was published, significant changes have occurred in Michigan's real estate landscape. These updates affect how real estate transactions are conducted, particularly in the areas of buyer agreements and commission structures. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational information on property laws.

📜 Mandatory Written Buyer Agreements

As of August 2024, real estate agents must now secure a written buyer agreement before showing any properties. This agreement must outline the compensation amount and clarify that commissions are negotiable. This change aims to improve transparency between buyers and agents.

💰 Elimination of MLS Commission Offers

A major shift in commission structures took place with the August 2024 NAR settlement. Listing brokers can no longer offer compensation to buyer brokers through Multiple Listing Services (MLS). Instead, compensation must be negotiated directly between the seller and the buyer's broker, taking place outside of the MLS framework.

📚 New Licensing Requirements

Prospective real estate agents in Michigan must complete a required number of pre-licensing education hours before taking the state exam. The hours vary by state, with Michigan adhering to its own specific standards.

📝 Fiduciary Duties of Agents

Real estate agents and brokers must fulfill fiduciary duties to their clients, including loyalty and disclosure. These duties are legally required and help protect clients' interests during transactions.

📌 Key Updates Summary

  • 📜 Written buyer agreements are now mandatory.
  • 💰 MLS commission offers have been eliminated.
  • 📚 Pre-licensing education requirements depend on the state.
  • 📝 Agents must adhere to fiduciary duties to clients.

💡 Tips for Navigating Michigan Real Estate

Reviewing your specific situation with an attorney is crucial for clarity on your legal standing.

🔍 Understand Buyer Agreements

Make sure you are familiar with the terms of any written buyer agreement. Knowing the compensation details and the negotiable aspects will help you make informed decisions.

🏠 Know Your Agent’s Duties

Real estate agents owe you fiduciary duties, including loyalty and confidentiality. Understanding these responsibilities can help you gauge how well your agent is serving your best interests.

📝 Be Ready for Commission Negotiations

With the elimination of MLS commission offers, be prepared to negotiate directly with your broker. Knowing what is reasonable in your area can strengthen your position.

📚 Complete Your Pre-Licensing Education

If you’re considering a career in real estate, ensure you meet the pre-licensing education requirements. Each state has different hour requirements, so check Michigan's standards.

💼 Find a Good Broker

Your real estate license will only become active when a licensed broker agrees to sponsor you. Research potential brokers carefully to ensure a good fit for your career goals.

🏡 Consider Virtual Showings

Virtual showings have become a popular way for buyers to view properties remotely. Familiarize yourself with this option as it can save time and enhance your property search.

🏆 Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights services related to real estate, helping buyers, sellers, and agents navigate the market. The order follows Trustpilot data from October 2026, where star ratings are one of many factors to consider. Remember that unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews, which can skew perceptions.

🥇 1. AutoReel

AutoReel has been rated 4.9. This service is known for its AI real estate video platform, which turns listing photos into engaging property videos. Reviewers appreciate how this tool can enhance property marketing, making listings more attractive to potential buyers.

🥈 2. Crexi

Crexi holds a score of 4.5. It serves as a commercial real estate marketplace with advanced technology and data platforms. While many users praise its features, some have noted occasional slow customer service response times.

🥉 3. Buildium

Buildium has an average rating of 4.4. It is known for property management software that offers cloud-based solutions. Users often highlight its effectiveness, though some report experiencing slow responses from customer support.

🆓 State Real Estate Commissions

State real estate commissions provide free resources and guidance for real estate professionals. For example, they offer regulations and information that can help both buyers and sellers understand the market better.

🔎 Factors to Compare When Choosing Services

  • 🌟 Check the Trustpilot score and number of reviews.
  • 📈 Look for user feedback on specific features.
  • 💬 Evaluate the customer service reputation.
  • 📊 Compare pricing structures for different services.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What are the new commission rules for real estate agents?

As of August 2024, listing brokers can no longer offer compensation to buyer brokers through MLS. Compensation must now be negotiated directly between the seller and the buyer's broker.

🏢 How do I become a licensed real estate agent in Michigan?

To become a licensed real estate agent in Michigan, you must complete required pre-licensing education hours and pass a state-administered exam. The number of hours varies based on state regulations.

📄 What is a fiduciary duty in real estate?

Fiduciary duty refers to the legal obligation that real estate agents have to act in the best interest of their clients. This includes loyalty, confidentiality, and full disclosure of relevant information.

📅 How often do I need to renew my real estate license?

License renewal deadlines vary by state. Be sure to check Michigan's specific requirements for license renewal to ensure compliance.

🏡 What are virtual showings?

Virtual showings are digital walk-throughs of properties conducted by an agent for potential buyers who cannot be physically present. This method has become increasingly popular in real estate transactions.

🏠 Can I sell a business as a licensed real estate agent?

Yes, most states allow licensed real estate agents to sell businesses without a separate business broker license, provided the sale includes real property.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Real Estate

Recent court rulings have clarified aspects of property law and real estate transactions, impacting both buyers and sellers. These cases address issues like fiduciary duties and commission structures.

For more recent rulings, feel free to check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





As is the case with every state, Michigan will have certain requirements and regulations regarding the licensing of Michigan realtors. Before becoming Michigan realtors, individuals seeking to start a career in this field must do certain things before even being eligible to take the state imposed real estate broker courses.

All prospective Michigan realtors must take a forty hour pre-licensing course, which is administered through the Michigan Institute of Real Estate. Other accredited institutions or schools will also offer the course as well. In this course, potential Michigan realtors will learn about property ownership, contracts, and financing. The course costs $215 when pre-paid, or $225 if paid within five days of the first class.

The second step in becoming Michigan realtors is to complete the required six hours of continuing education for a total of three consecutive years while working as a real estate salesperson. 

The Best of Michigan Realtors

Upon completion, one will become eligible to enroll in the real estate broker courses, with are also offered by the Michigan Institute of Real Estate. Three courses in total must be taken within three years in order to obtain the Michigan realtors license. This will entail a total of ninety hours in total course work, which will cost $295 per course.

Upon receiving the state license, Michigan realtors will need to take more courses in order to renew their licenses. A total of eighteen hours must be completed to renew the license, which can consist of six hours of education or classes over the three year period.