You can read headlines in the papers and see features on the TV, but it doesn't really compare to first hand experience seeing the struggles builders are going through with the market downturn.

There is a builder in our market that we've purchased homes from since 1994. I remember the first was in Flemming Creek on Ann Arbor's North side.

It was a struggle because two different subcontractors were doing their own thing and not following the plans and we had to make a scene with the builder's salesperson to get them to build the home right. The builder was arogant and obnoxious to us on the buying side. Thankfully for the buyer we were there to absorb some of the frustration and to do the forceful negotiation.

Later we bought other homes including a luxury condo on the West side about two years ago. I've recently had a client who is considering a custom home in the builder's luxury community on Ann Arbor's South side. The builder's service and product had gotten substantially better over those twelve years.

The point is that we were never "friends" with this builder, but we did help a number of buyers purchase homes that improved their lives. Our buyer clients benefitted from the work and efforts of these guys and gals. It gives you a level of respect and appreciation of that many transactions and that long of a relationship.

Well I called this morning to arrange a showing and it sounds like some of their phone numbers have been disconnected or their employees have been laid off. People who I've know and dealt with.

Even though some of these people were very frustrating when we were negotiating purchase and inspection issues it still makes me very sad. I've been laid off. It is not a fun experience.

I wish them all well!

 Jon Boyd, Broker/Manager
The Home Buyer's Agent of Ann Arbor, Inc.
Click here for information on Ann Arbor real estate homes for sale
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734-662-6240 
1908 W. Stadium Blvd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Ann Arbor's Most experienced Exclusive Buyer's Brokerage!