What Is a Seller’s Disclosure—and Why Does It Matter?

Holistic Customer Solutions, LLC
Jul 6
2 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

When you're preparing to sell your home in Michigan, one of the most important (and legally required) steps is completing the Seller’s Disclosure Statement.

It might not sound exciting—but trust me, this simple document carries a lot of power. It helps set the tone for a smooth, transparent sale—and protects both you and the buyer from confusion or conflict later.

Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense (no legal dictionary required).

🔍 What Is the Seller’s Disclosure Statement?

The Seller’s Disclosure Statement is a legal document in Michigan that requires sellers to disclose what they know about the condition of the property.

This includes things like:

The age of the roof, furnace, and water heater
Any history of water damage or foundation issues
Whether you’ve made improvements or upgrades
Whether the appliances stay with the home
And more

Think of it as your home’s "health chart." It’s not about making the home perfect—it’s about being honest and upfront about what the buyer is getting.

📜 Is It Required in Michigan?

Yes. Under Michigan law, most home sellers are required to complete and provide this disclosure before a buyer makes an offer. Skipping it could delay your sale—or worse, open you up to legal issues down the road.

There are a few exceptions (like estate sales or bank-owned properties), but in most standard home sales, this form is non-negotiable.

✨ Why It’s Actually a Good Thing for You

It’s easy to view paperwork like this as a hassle—but the Seller’s Disclosure is actually your protection as a seller. Here's how:

It builds trust with buyers, which can lead to stronger offers.
It prevents surprises during the inspection, which could derail a deal.
It reduces your liability in the future—because you've documented everything honestly.

In short: honesty leads to smoother, faster closings.

🧘‍♀️ A Mindful Reminder: You Don’t Need to Know Everything

This form only requires you to disclose what you know about your property. You’re not expected to be a home inspector or construction expert.

If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to mark "Unknown." What matters is that you answer truthfully and to the best of your knowledge.

💬 Need Help Filling It Out?

You don’t have to do this alone. As a Michigan REALTOR® with a holistic approach, I’m here to walk you through every step of the process—from paperwork to pricing to your emotional readiness to move on.