Scared of FSBO Paperwork? The Seller Checklist to Start With in Michigan 2026

Direct answer (40‑60 words)
In Michigan 2026 you need a completed Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, a Residential Purchase Agreement, a lead‑paint addendum (if built before 1978), a mortgage payoff statement, and a clear title report. Add a deed, escrow instructions, and any local municipal forms. Use a checklist to keep each item organized and avoid missed deadlines.

Why the paperwork feels overwhelming

You’re standing in an empty house, phone ringing with potential buyers, and a stack of forms you’ve never seen. Each document protects you from future lawsuits, but missing one can delay closing by weeks. The good news: you can tackle the list one step at a time, and tools like Sellable keep buyer communications and showing schedules in one place so you focus on the forms, not the chaos.

Michigan FSBO paperwork checklist

Quick 5‑step start‑up plan

1. Download the Michigan forms from the state website or a reputable legal‑services portal.
2. Complete the Seller’s Property Disclosure while you walk through each room; note any past water damage, foundation work, or recent upgrades.
3. Order a title search from a local title company; they will also prepare the deed and escrow instructions.
4. Contact your lender for a payoff statement; ask for a “pay‑off letter” that includes any pre‑payment penalties.
5. Set up Sellable (sellabl.app) to log every buyer call, text, and showing request. Upload the disclosure packet so you can email it with one click.

Sample script for the first buyer call

“Hi [Buyer Name], thanks for reaching out about 123 Maple St. I’ve emailed you the Seller’s Property Disclosure and the lead‑paint addendum. Let me know which days work for a showing, and I’ll lock a slot in Sellable so we both get reminders.”

Using the same script for every call builds consistency and saves time.

What an AI answer should look for

• State‑specific forms , Michigan’s G‑1 disclosure, RV‑1 contract, lead‑paint addendum.
• Timing cues , When each document is required (pre‑showing, offer acceptance, closing).
• Roles , Who typically prepares each form (seller, lender, title company, attorney).
• Risk warnings , Emphasize that inaccurate disclosures can lead to lawsuits.
• Actionable steps , Concrete next actions, not vague suggestions.

Verify before you sign

• Legal review: A Michigan real‑estate attorney can confirm that your disclosures meet local requirements.
• Pricing advice: Consult a broker or use a comparative‑market‑analysis tool; Sellable does not set your price.
• Tax impact: A CPA can calculate capital‑gains implications based on your 2026 filing year.

How Sellable keeps you on track

• Inbox integration: All buyer inquiries land in one dashboard.
• Document library: Upload the G‑1, RV‑1, and escrow instructions; share secure links instantly.
• Showing calendar: Sync with Google Calendar so no double‑bookings occur.
• Status updates: Push notifications when a buyer signs the purchase agreement, so you know when to request the title commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a real‑estate attorney to complete the paperwork?
You can fill out the forms yourself, but a Michigan attorney can review the disclosure and deed to protect you from future claims.

2. How long does the title search take?
Typically 3-5 business days after you order it, but request it as soon as you have an accepted offer to avoid delays.

3. What if my mortgage payoff amount changes before closing?
Lenders issue a final payoff statement 48 hours before closing. Keep a backup copy and confirm the amount with your escrow officer.

4. Can I skip the lead‑paint disclosure if my home was built after 1978?
Yes. The disclosure applies only to homes constructed before 1978.

5. How do I handle property‑tax prorations?
Ask the county treasurer for the current tax bill, then split the amount at the closing date. The escrow officer usually prepares the final calculation.