When selling a home in Michigan, state law requires the seller to complete a Seller’s Disclosure Statement. This form provides information about the condition of the property based on what the seller personally knows at the time of completing the form. It protects both the seller and the buyer by creating transparency.
This form is not a guarantee of the home’s condition. It simply documents what you know. The buyer will still complete their own inspections.
If the Seller’s Disclosure Statement is not provided, a buyer may legally cancel the purchase agreement.
The form you will complete looks like the one shown here: Seller’s Disclosure Statement.
Why the Seller’s Disclosure Matters
• It provides transparency
• It reduces the chance of disputes later
• It helps protect you legally
• It fulfills state law requirements
How to Complete the Seller’s Disclosure Statement
Print the Form
Print the form so it can be completed by hand. The form must be filled out and signed by the seller(s).
Answer Every Question
Go through each section carefully. The form asks about:
• Structural items
• Mechanical systems
• Appliances
• Utilities (well, septic, city water, etc.)
• Past or present issues (water leaks, roof repairs, etc.)
For each item, select the appropriate checkbox:
• Yes (you know it is present/working)
• No (not present or not working)
• Unknown (you truly do not know)
• Not Available (does not apply to your property)
Do not leave questions blank. If unsure, mark Unknown rather than guessing.
Provide Explanations When Needed
If you check Yes to a known issue (for example, basement water or a roof leak), write a short explanation in the space provided. The explanation can be simple and factual.
Use an Additional Sheet if Necessary
If you run out of space for explanations, attach another sheet.
Include:
• Property address
• The item being explained
• Your explanation
Then sign and date the extra page.
Sign and Date the Form
All titled owners/sellers must sign the disclosure.
How to Return the Completed Form
• Scan or clearly photograph each page
• Email back as a PDF or clear set of images
• Make sure all writing is readable
If needed, we can recommend a free phone scanning app.
Special Instructions for Estate Sales or When the Seller Has Not Lived in the Home
If you are selling a home you have never occupied (for example, an inherited property), you are still required to fill out the Seller’s Disclosure Statement.
However, it is appropriate to check Unknown for items you genuinely do not have knowledge of.
Examples:
• You did not live in the home
• It was part of an estate
• You do not know the repair history
Do not guess or assume. Check Unknown when appropriate. This is normal and acceptable.
Key Rule:
Answer honestly to the best of your actual knowledge. You are not required to investigate, research, or hire someone to verify answers to complete the form.
Final Step
Once the form is completed, signed, and returned, we will provide it to prospective buyers. This keeps the sale moving smoothly and meets legal requirements.