If you try searching for Clinton Township MI real estate on the web or using the MLS listings, you may be surprised to see that there are three different townships in the state named Clinton. Prices of Clinton Michigan real estate vary greatly, depending upon which “Clinton” you are interested. Here we look at the differences between the three townships and offer information for frustrated buyers and sellers.

Throughout the state of Michigan, townships are local governments. There are two types of townships. They are charter and general law or civil townships. These local governments differ in the services they provide to residents. Some provide many services, while others rely heavily on the counties in which they lie.

Macomb County

In Macomb County, Clinton Township Michigan real estate covers an area of a little more than 28 square miles, with a population approaching 100,000. It is a charter township and may be referred to as the Charter Township of Clinton or Clinton Charter Township, but is usually referred to as simply Clinton or Clinton Township.

Owners of Clinton Township MI real estate in Macomb County are provided with water and sewer through the local township government, as well as police and fire departments. The numerous parks and schools are also provided and maintained by the local government. Residents pay local taxes to finance these services.

This particular Clinton Township is a suburb of Detroit and is part of the Metro Detroit Area, home of the “Big Three” American automakers. Currently, the median price for a home in these Clinton Township Michigan real estate classifieds is $168,500. There are over 300 foreclosures, with prices far lower than average, but some may be in poor condition.

Lenawee County

In Lenawee County, Clinton Township MI real estate covers an area of about 18 square miles, with a population around 4000. It is a charter township and the village of Clinton is located within the township. Lenawee County provides most of the services for residents of the county and the village.

Located along Route 12, away from the major interstates, travelers from Detroit have sometimes referred to this Clinton as the Gateway to the Irish Hills. It is a community rich in early Michigan history.

Currently, the median price for homes in these Clinton Township MI real estate classifieds is $157,500. Many owners are relocating and short sales, when accepted by the lender are common. Some are in need of renovations, but some sellers are willing to reduce the asking price if the new buyer is willing to add the finishing touches.

Oscoda County

In Oscoda County, Clinton township Michigan real estate covers an area of over 70 square miles, but had a population of less than 600 people at the 2000 census. It is a civil township, and because of the size of the population, most emergency services are provided by the county government.

Oscoda County is one of the less developed counties in the state. Information for median prices and homes available in this Clinton Township MI real estate area is currently unavailable. Median prices for nearby Comins and Mio are $64,900 and $70,000 respectively. Most properties are advertised for hunting, fishing and vacationing.

Buyers & Sellers

Regardless of which county you are in, if you are frustrated with trying to sell Clinton township Michigan real estate, you should know that there are unique options that you may want to consider. If you need to sell quickly, because of relocation or if you are facing foreclosure, because of the fluctuating economy throughout the state, the key to moving your property is seller financing. Seller financing opens your house to a much larger segment of the total market of buyers.

Likewise, if you would like to buy Clinton township MI real estate, but are having trouble qualifying for traditional financing, the key is to employ strategies like buying on a lease option (aka rent to own), land contract, or some similar way.

Many lenders have raised their standards recently due to losses from foreclosures. Meaning that many people with less than perfect credit ratings can no longer meet the standards. Many real estate experts blame the soft market, at least in part, on the unwillingness of many lenders to finance homes for people with past credit issues.

However, the lease option plan circumvents these issues by allowing buyers who can afford the payments, have saved up the down payment and have reliable employment to get into a home on a rent to own basis, while working to repair their credit.

Some real estate investors who buy foreclosed homes and then make them beautiful again (also known as rehabbers) will sell their homes on a lease option basis. Because these investors tend to do seller financing (don't involve banks to get you into the home), this is a great way for a bruised credit buyer to purchase a home. This is just one example. There are many more ways to achieve home ownership.

In summary, you can own Clinton township MI real estate even if you don't think you can. You just need the right education and perhaps a bit of assistance.