What is the Process for Buying a House in Dearborn?
Overview of the process for Buying a House in Dearborn:
- Seller has city inspection on property
- Seller completes inspection requirements
- Email sent to city staff to certificate of occupancy request prior to closing date
- Certificate of Occupancy Document issued by city
- Attend Closing appointment
- Move-in
- Purchaser files PTA/PRE with Assessor
In the City of Dearborn, a residential pre-sale housing inspection is required by ordinance. This inspection should be scheduled by the seller (or a real estate agent working on their behalf) well in advance of closing. These inspections are basic safety and property maintenance inspections to ensure compliance with minimum housing standards.
What is a Certificate of Occupancy?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C / O) is a document that is issued by the city, certifying a building's compliance with applicable building codes and ordinances, and indicating it to be in a condition suitable for occupancy.
Certificates of Occupancy are always prepared in the purchaser’s name. To request a Certificate of Occupancy, email the purchaser’s name to DbnSales@dearborn.gov. Please also state whether the buyer will be occupying the home. If it will be a Non-owner occupied property, please provide the buyers full contact information. The certificate will be emailed back to the requestor. They will be responsible for providing the C / O to the closing appointment.
Inspection reports and Certificates of Occupancy are time sensitive.
Please contact the staff for specifics regarding the property. Email: DbnSales@dearborn.gov.
After Closing
Buyer should confirm with the Assessor’s office that both a Property Transfer Affidavit (PTA) and a Principal Residence Exemption (PRE=Homestead) have been filed.