Selling a home is one of the biggest financial events in a person’s life. At Bay Realty Michigan, our goal is to make the process smooth, predictable, and stress-free. We use a proven sales system built around strong communication, data-driven pricing, strategic marketing, and our exclusive guarantees that protect our clients at every step.
Below is a clear overview of how the selling process works from start to finish.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Every successful sale begins with clarity. During our first meeting, we cover:
• your goals, timeline, and motivation
• the condition of the home
• improvements or repairs that may increase value
• how your home compares to competing listings
• local market data and pricing strategy
You receive a complete explanation of our Smart Seller Program, our Risk-Free Listing Agreement, and our Performance Guarantee.
Step 2: Pricing Strategy
Correct pricing is one of the most important decisions in the selling process. We complete:
• a full comparative market analysis
• a review of recent sales and active competition
• analysis of Days on Market and supply trends
• recommendations for pricing bands and buyer thresholds
Our objective is simple: position your home to attract the maximum number of qualified buyers in the shortest amount of time.
Step 3: Preparing the Home
Buyers make decisions emotionally within seconds. We help you prepare your home to show its very best by offering guidance on:
• minor repairs
• decluttering and organization
• simple interior updates
• curb appeal improvements
• professional-grade cleaning
• staging recommendations, if needed
Homes that show well not only sell faster, they sell for more money.
Step 4: Professional Marketing Launch
Once the home is ready, our full marketing system goes into action. This is anchored in our 40-Point Bulletproof Marketing Plan and typically includes:
• high-quality photography
• drone and aerial marketing
• accurate MLS data entry
• targeted social media advertising
• syndication to hundreds of websites
• email campaigns to our buyer database
• signage, directional marketing, and open house strategy when applicable
The first two weeks on the market are critical. Our goal is to generate strong traffic, multiple showing appointments, and qualified interest immediately.
Step 5: Showings and Communication
We coordinate and track all showings through secure scheduling systems. You receive:
• real-time showing notifications
• weekly traffic reports
• agent feedback summaries
• ongoing market updates on new listings, price reductions, and pending sales in your area
Communication is one of the areas where most sellers feel underserved. We eliminate that issue with proactive updates throughout the entire process.
Step 6: Receiving and Negotiating Offers
When an offer comes in, we review:
• price
• financing type
• appraisal strength
• inspection terms
• possession needs
• concessions
• buyer qualifications
We negotiate firmly on your behalf to achieve the best price and terms possible. Our goal is not just to secure the highest sale price—it is to secure the strongest contract with the highest probability of closing.
Step 7: Inspection and Appraisal
Once under contract, the buyer completes inspections and their lender orders an appraisal. We handle:
• negotiation of inspection repairs or concessions
• communication with the lender and buyer’s agent
• preparation for any follow-up requests
• monitoring deadlines to protect your interests
Our job is to keep your transaction on track and prevent surprises.
Step 8: Title Work and Closing Preparation
The title company reviews the property for liens, taxes, ownership history, and compliance. Their job is to ensure a clean, insurable transfer of ownership. As the transaction approaches closing, we:
• review your seller settlement statement
• coordinate utilities
• handle occupancy arrangements
• prepare final disclosures
• confirm funding and closing timelines
We also remind every seller to speak with their CPA about potential tax implications from the sale.
Step 9: Closing Day
On closing day, you sign the final documents, hand over the keys, and receive your proceeds. The title company finalizes the transfer, records the deed, and distributes funds securely.
For many sellers, closing marks the beginning of a new chapter—and we are grateful to play a part in that transition.
Step 10: After the Sale
Our relationship doesn’t end at the closing table. We remain available to assist with:
• your next purchase
• referrals to trusted service providers
• market updates and ongoing guidance
• any tax or paperwork follow-up questions
We want to be your real estate resource for life.
Aug. 19, 2026
Your Google review is incredibly important to our business. As a locally owned real estate brokerage, much of our growth comes from past clients sharing their experiences and recommending us to others.
By taking just a couple of minutes to leave a review, you would be doing us a huge favor. Your feedback helps future buyers and sellers find Bay Realty Michigan and feel confident choosing us to help with one of their biggest financial decisions.
What Should I Write?
It doesn't need to be long or complicated. Simply share your experience in your own words. If you're not sure what to include, consider mentioning:
- Who you worked with — Ryan Sagady, Lyndsey O'Brien, Jeremy Owen, or Chance Owen
- The property address — if you're comfortable sharing it
- The city or community where the transaction took place
- Whether you were buying a home, selling a home, or both
- What you appreciated about your experience
- Communication, responsiveness, market knowledge, negotiation, or guidance
- Whether you would recommend Bay Realty Michigan to others
Example
“We worked with Ryan Sagady and Lyndsey O'Brien at Bay Realty Michigan to sell our home at [Property Address] in Bay City. They were responsive, knowledgeable, and kept us informed throughout the entire process. We would highly recommend Bay Realty Michigan to anyone looking to buy or sell a home in the area.”
Your own words and experience are always best!
Ready to Leave Your Review?
Bay City Office
⭐ Click Here to Leave a Google Review for our Bay City Office
Au Gres Office
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If you've worked with us through both offices, you're welcome to leave a review for both locations.
Thank You for Supporting Our Local Business!
We truly appreciate your business, your trust, and your support. Taking a few minutes to leave a Google review is one of the biggest ways you can help Bay Realty Michigan continue to grow.
Thank you!
Ryan Sagady & Lyndsey O'Brien
Bay Realty Michigan
July 20, 2026
One of the most common questions we hear from buyers is, "Why do I need to provide a pre-approval letter or proof of funds before I can see a home?"
The answer is simple: it's about respecting the seller and putting you in the best position to buy the home.
When a seller agrees to a showing, they often spend hours preparing their home. They clean, organize, secure valuables, make arrangements for children and pets, and leave their home so buyers can view it comfortably. Sellers deserve the confidence of knowing that the people touring their home are financially able to purchase it.
A mortgage pre-approval letter or proof of funds demonstrates that you're a serious buyer who is ready to move forward if you find the right home. Many sellers require this before approving a showing, especially in today's market.
There is another important benefit for you as a buyer. If you fall in love with a home, you'll already have your financing in place and be ready to submit an offer immediately. In a competitive market, being prepared can make the difference between winning the home and missing out.
If you haven't spoken with a lender yet, don't worry—we're happy to connect you with trusted local lenders who can help you get pre-approved. The process is often quicker and easier than many buyers expect.
At Bay Realty Michigan, our goal is to make your home-buying experience as smooth as possible while respecting the sellers who have entrusted us with their home. Once we have your pre-approval letter or proof of funds, we'll be happy to schedule your showing and help you find the perfect home.
July 20, 2026
We appreciate the opportunity to help you with your home search and would be happy to schedule a showing.
Before we can show a home, there are two simple requirements:
1. Buyer Agency Agreement
A Buyer Agency Agreement is required by law and must be signed before a buyer's agent can show a home. To make the process easy, we offer a one-day agreement that covers only the property you're viewing. There is no long-term commitment, and we're happy to answer any questions before you sign.
2. Pre-Approval or Proof of Funds
We also ask that you provide either a mortgage pre-approval letter or proof of funds before your showing. Many sellers require this to help ensure qualified buyers are touring their home. Preparing a home for a showing takes time and effort, and sellers deserve the peace of mind of knowing that prospective buyers are financially able to purchase the property.
An added benefit is that having your financing in place puts you in a much stronger position if you decide to make an offer.
Once we have your signed one-day Buyer Agency Agreement and your pre-approval or proof of funds, we'll get your showing scheduled as quickly as possible.
Thank you again for choosing Bay Realty Michigan. We look forward to helping you find your next home!
July 14, 2026
Not Ready to Commit to a Long-Term Listing? Test the Market First.
If you're thinking about selling your home but aren't sure if hiring a real estate broker is the right decision, Bay Realty Michigan has a unique program designed just for you.
Our One-Week, 100% Risk-Free Listing Program allows you to experience the benefits of listing your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) without committing to a long-term listing agreement.
There are no upfront costs, no listing fees, and no risk. It's simply an opportunity to see what the market has to offer.
Continue Selling Your Home Yourself
Even while your home is listed with Bay Realty Michigan, you are welcome to continue marketing your property on your own.
If you find the buyer, you owe Bay Realty Michigan absolutely no commission.
You remain in complete control throughout the process.
Our Goal Is to Find the Buyer
When you hire Bay Realty Michigan, our goal is simple—to find a qualified buyer for your home.
We don't simply place your home on the MLS and hope another brokerage sells it. We actively market your property through professional photography, online advertising, social media, open houses, networking, and direct buyer outreach.
If our marketing produces the buyer, we've accomplished exactly what you hired us to do.
What Happens If We Find the Buyer?
If Bay Realty Michigan brings the buyer, we'll negotiate the offer, coordinate inspections, work with the lender and title company, and manage the transaction from accepted offer to closing.
You are always in control.
You can:
- Accept an offer.
- Reject an offer.
- Counter an offer.
If you don't agree to the price, terms, or conditions, you simply don't sell.
You Only Pay If You Decide to Sell
There are no upfront costs to participate in our One-Week, 100% Risk-Free Listing Program.
The only commission due is at the closing table—and only if:
- Bay Realty Michigan brings the buyer.
- You voluntarily accept the offer.
- You agree to the price, terms, and conditions.
- The transaction successfully closes.
If your home doesn't sell, or you decide not to accept an offer, you owe us nothing.
Why Test the Market?
Many homeowners wonder what their home is worth or whether enough buyers are actively looking before committing to a traditional listing agreement.
Our One-Week, 100% Risk-Free Listing Program lets you test the market with no upfront investment and no long-term commitment.
If the market responds, fantastic! If not, you've gained valuable insight without spending a dime.
Ready to See What the Market Has to Offer?
If you've been thinking about selling but aren't ready to commit to a traditional listing agreement, let's talk.
Bay Realty Michigan's One-Week, 100% Risk-Free Listing Program gives you the opportunity to expose your home to thousands of buyers while continuing to market it yourself—all with no upfront cost and no obligation.
Contact Bay Realty Michigan today to learn more and see if our One-Week, 100% Risk-Free Listing Program is right for you.
July 14, 2026
Dual agency occurs when the same real estate brokerage represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction.
In Michigan, dual agency is legal, but both the buyer and seller must provide informed written consent before it can occur.
When Bay Realty Michigan represents only you, we can fully advocate for your best interests. If dual agency is established, Michigan law requires us to remain neutral between both parties. We cannot disclose confidential information or advise one party how to negotiate against the other.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
Our goal has always been simple: to find a qualified buyer for your home. That's exactly what you hired us to do.
We don't simply place your home on the MLS and wait for another brokerage to bring a buyer. We actively market your property through professional photography, social media, online advertising, open houses, networking, and direct buyer outreach.
If our marketing produces the buyer, we may become a dual agent with your written consent. When that happens, we're not doing less work—we're doing twice the work by coordinating both sides of the transaction while remaining neutral and protecting each party's confidential information.
Whether the buyer is represented by another brokerage or by Bay Realty Michigan, our objective remains the same: to sell your home and successfully guide the transaction from listing to closing.
June 2, 2026
Congratulations on finding a buyer!
Now let Bay Realty Michigan help get your transaction to the closing table smoothly and professionally. Our goal is to make both buyers and sellers feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire sales process.
We handle all aspects of your real estate transaction from the signing of the purchase agreement through closing. Buyers and sellers negotiate the terms of the deal, and we handle the paperwork and coordination to help ensure everything is completed properly and legally.
Transaction Coordinator Service Fee
Bay Realty Michigan offers transaction coordinator services for $2,000.
This fee is typically split between the buyer and seller, with each side paying $1,000 at closing.
Bonus Opportunity:
If either side buys or sells their next home with Bay Realty Michigan, their portion of the transaction coordination fee is waived.
Transaction Coordinator Duties
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Oversee all aspects of the buyer and seller transaction from executed purchase agreement to closing.
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Coordinate title, escrow, mortgage loan, and appraisal processes.
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Coordinate inspections, assist with repair negotiations, and coordinate completion of agreed upon repairs.
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Maintain regular communication and updates with clients, agents, title companies, lenders, inspectors, and other parties involved in the transaction.
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Submit all necessary documentation to the broker for file compliance.
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Coordinate possession dates, moving schedules, and final details prior to closing.
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Schedule and coordinate the closing process to help ensure a smooth transaction for all parties involved.
Why Use a Transaction Coordinator?
Real estate transactions involve deadlines, paperwork, communication, and coordination between multiple parties. A transaction coordinator helps keep everything organized and on track while reducing stress for buyers and sellers.
Our job is to help make the process smoother so you can focus on the excitement of buying or selling your home.
Contact Bay Realty Michigan today to learn more about our transaction coordinator services.
April 18, 2026
WHY THIS AGREEMENT IS REQUIRED
If you are planning to buy a home, one of the first steps today is signing a Buyer Agency Agreement. This is now required before a real estate agent can show you homes. This change is the result of recent industry updates designed to increase transparency and clearly define how agents work for and are compensated by buyers.
A Buyer Agency Agreement establishes the relationship between you and your agent. It outlines representation, expectations, and how compensation is handled—so there are no surprises later in the process.
WHAT CHANGED WITH COMMISSIONS
Historically, sellers typically paid both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent, and that compensation was advertised in the MLS. Buyers rarely had to think about how their agent was paid.
That structure has changed.
• Buyer agent compensation is no longer displayed in the MLS
• Compensation is fully negotiable between buyer, seller, and agents
• Sellers are not automatically responsible for paying the buyer’s agent
Because of these changes, a written agreement is now required so buyers understand exactly how their agent will be compensated before touring homes.
HOW WE HANDLE COMMISSION FOR OUR BUYERS
At Bay Realty Michigan, we structure our agreements to protect your interests and keep the process simple.
In most cases, we negotiate our commission directly within the purchase agreement and request that the seller pay it as part of the transaction. This allows you to have full representation while minimizing out-of-pocket costs.
If a seller is not offering compensation, we will discuss options with you upfront so you can make an informed decision before moving forward.
FLEXIBLE OPTIONS THAT FIT YOUR SITUATION
Buyer Agency Agreements are not one-size-fits-all. We keep them flexible and tailored to your comfort level.
• We can write the agreement for a single day or extend it for several months
• We can limit it to one specific property or cover your entire home search
• We adjust the terms based on your timeline and goals
You are not locked into a long-term agreement unless that is what you want.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU AS A BUYER
This change gives you more clarity and control.
• You know exactly who represents you
• You understand how your agent is compensated
• You have the ability to negotiate terms that work for you
• You receive full professional guidance from start to finish
Most importantly, it ensures your agent is working in your best interest under a clearly defined agreement.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The process has changed, but the goal remains the same—helping you find the right home while protecting your interests.
A Buyer Agency Agreement is simply a tool to create transparency, set expectations, and make sure you are fully represented before you ever walk through a door.
If you have questions or would like to see how we structure our agreements, we are happy to walk you through everything step by step.
April 17, 2026
Today’s buyers start their home search online, and photos create the first impression. If the photos do not capture attention, buyers will simply move on. Professional photography ensures your home stands out, generates more interest, and attracts serious buyers.
At Bay Realty Michigan, professional photography is included at no cost to our sellers because it directly impacts how your home is perceived and how quickly it sells. High-quality images showcase space, layout, and key features in a way that cell phone photos cannot.
Why Professional Photography Matters
Professional photos are designed to highlight your home’s strengths. Proper lighting, angles, and composition make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. This leads to more online views, more showings, and stronger offers.
Preparing Your Home for Photos
Preparing your home properly makes a noticeable difference in the final result. A clean and well-organized home always photographs better.
• Declutter countertops, tables, and floors to create open space
• Deep clean all rooms, especially kitchens and bathrooms
• Open blinds and curtains to maximize natural light
• Turn on all lights and replace any burnt-out bulbs
• Remove personal items such as family photos and collections
• Make beds neatly and keep décor simple
• Mow the lawn, trim landscaping, and clean up outdoor areas
Enhance Your Listing With Additional Photos
Sellers are encouraged to provide extra photos that help tell the full story of the property. This can include summer photos, gardens in bloom, wildlife, or scenic views such as sunrise or sunset. These images can be especially valuable if the home is listed during the winter months and help buyers connect with the lifestyle the property offers.
Final Thoughts
Professional photography is one of the most important parts of marketing your home. It increases visibility, improves buyer interest, and helps create a strong first impression.
At Bay Realty Michigan, our goal is to present your home at its absolute best from day one.
April 14, 2026
When it comes to selling your home, nothing impacts your success more than price. Not the photos, not the marketing, and not even the condition of the home. Price is what drives everything.
Many sellers believe they can start high and adjust later if needed. On the surface, that may seem like a safe strategy, but it often leads to the opposite result. The market responds immediately to a new listing. Within the first few days, buyers and agents are evaluating your home and comparing it to every other option available. That early window is when your home receives the most attention.
If the price is right, you will see strong showing activity, increased interest, and the potential for multiple offers. That creates leverage and puts you in a strong position to negotiate. If the price is too high, you will see little to no showings, limited interest, and no offers. The home begins to sit, and buyers start to question why.
Even when nothing is wrong, perception becomes reality. Buyers begin to wonder if something has been overlooked or if there is an issue they are not seeing.
The process of selling a home always follows the same path. First come showings. Then come offers. Then comes negotiating the best price and terms. If your home is not getting showings, the process stops before it even begins.
It is also important to understand that if your home is on the market, it is already fully exposed. Buyers can see it on all major real estate websites, and agents can see it in the MLS. The photos may look great and the marketing may be strong. But if buyers are not scheduling showings, it is not a marketing issue. It is a pricing issue.
Buyers today are well informed. They are comparing your home to every other option in your price range. They are also looking at what you paid for the home. If your current price is significantly higher, they expect to see clear value in return. If that value is not obvious through condition, updates, or location, they move on.
There are three key factors that sell a home: price, condition, and marketing. Price determines whether buyers consider your home at all. Condition influences how buyers feel once they walk through it. Marketing ensures your home is seen by the market. When all three are aligned, homes sell. When one is off, especially price, the process breaks down.
Another common mistake is making small price reductions. A minor adjustment often does not change your position in the market. You are still competing with the same homes and attracting the same buyers who already passed. A meaningful price adjustment, however, can reposition your home, attract new buyers, and create the activity needed to generate offers.
Pricing correctly from the start does not mean leaving money on the table. In many cases, it leads to stronger offers and better outcomes because it creates competition.
The goal is not to test the market. The goal is to position your home where buyers are ready to act.
At the end of the day, the market always tells the truth. The key is listening to it early and making the right adjustments at the right time.
If you are thinking about selling, or if your home is not getting the activity you expected, we can walk through the data together and develop a strategy that works. No pressure, just honest guidance to help you get the best possible result.
April 10, 2026
If your home has been sitting on the market with little to no showings and no offers, the market is giving us important feedback.
In most cases, that feedback points to price.
We understand this can be frustrating. Our goal is the same as yours, to get you the most money possible for your home. To do that, we have to work with the market, not against it.
The process is simple and it has to happen in order.
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Showings
This is where everything starts. If buyers are not coming through the door, nothing else can happen.
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Offers
Showings create interest. Interest leads to offers.
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Negotiating the best price and terms
This is where you maximize your outcome, but you cannot get here without the first two steps.
If showings are not happening, the process stops before it even begins.
There are three things that sell a home.
Price
This is the biggest driver. Buyers compare your home to every other option on the market. If the price does not reflect the condition, location, and competition, they will not schedule a showing.
Condition
Buyers want a home that feels well maintained and move in ready. Cleanliness, updates, and overall presentation matter. If buyers feel they will need to put in too much work, they either pass or expect a lower price.
Marketing
This is what creates exposure. Professional photos, online presence, and MLS visibility ensure that your home is seen by all buyers and agents.
The good news is your marketing is doing its job. Buyers can see your home on all major real estate websites, and every agent in the market is aware it is available. The photos look great, and the presentation is strong.
When marketing and condition are in place and showings are still limited, the issue almost always comes back to price.
Buyers are also looking at your previous purchase price. If the increase is not clearly supported by updates or improvements, they hesitate.
In many cases, a small price adjustment is not enough to change that. It takes a meaningful adjustment to get buyers’ attention, bring in new activity, and create the opportunity for offers.
We are on your side, and our goal is to help you get the best possible result. That starts with listening to what the market is telling us and positioning your home where buyers are ready to act.
If you would like, we can walk through the data together and create a strategy to get your home moving again. No pressure, just honest guidance.