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Meet Realtor Craig Hickey
Hi, I’m Craig. I’m a retired firefighter from the Allen Park Fire Department, where I spent years serving the community. Now, I’m using my experience in construction and real estate to help families find the perfect place to call home.
I’ve been around the block a time or two, and I know this industry can feel overwhelming. That’s why I pride myself on being honest and straightforward—I’ll always give it to you straight. I’m not here to tell you what you want to hear; I’m here to help you make the best decisions for your family.
Negotiation is in my blood. I used to negotiate for my department—our pay, safety, and futures—and now I do the same for my clients. Buying or selling a home is a big deal, and I treat it with the care it deserves because I know how much it impacts your family’s well-being.
I may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re looking for someone who’s honest, hardworking, and truly has your back, I’d love to help.
Let’s find your way home, together.
Discover Top-Tier Real Estate Services
Buying With An Agent Who Truly Represents Your Interests!
When you work with Craig Hickey, you’re not just hiring a real estate agent—you’re partnering with someone who truly gets it. Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and Craig’s clients consistently point to a few things that make him stand out.
A Thorough Home Walk-Through
Craig doesn’t just open the door and let you wander—he’s with you, pointing out details others might miss. From windows to foundations, he spots potential issues before they turn into expensive surprises.
Real Construction Know-How
With years of construction experience, Craig has the trained eye to evaluate the quality of a home. Whether it’s a roof nearing its end or a property in a flood zone, he ensures you know what you’re stepping into before you’re invested.
Offers That Get Noticed
In a fast-paced market, Craig knows how to make your offer stand out. He doesn’t just submit paperwork and hope for the best; he takes steps to highlight why your bid is the one sellers should take seriously.
Client-First Mentality
Craig is committed to putting your needs at the forefront, ensuring your home-buying journey receives his full attention and care every step of the way.
A Team That Has Your Back
His transaction coordinator keeps things moving seamlessly, reducing the stress many buyers feel. With Craig’s team, the process stays smooth and manageable.
Working with Craig isn’t just about finding a house—it’s about having someone who genuinely cares about making the experience as smooth and successful as possible. His clients know they’re not just another deal; they’re a priority.
Experience True Strategic Home Selling Solutions
Why Sell with Craig Hickey?
When you work with Craig Hickey, you’re not just hiring a real estate agent—you’re teaming up with someone who’s got your back. Craig’s approach is straightforward, honest, and all about making sure you come out on top. With decades of experience in construction, real estate, and negotiating for what matters, Craig is the kind of guy you want in your corner.
What Sellers Appreciate About Craig Hickey
Getting Market-Ready Made Simple
Craig knows how to get a home ready for the market without overcomplicating it. He’ll walk through your home like a buyer would, pointing out the little things that could use attention before the big day. Need repairs or a quick refresh? Craig’s got a network of trusted pros who’ll get it done right.
Real Pricing, Not Algorithms
Forget the one-size-fits-all online estimates. Craig looks at the big picture—what makes your home stand out and what challenges buyers might see. He’ll give you a realistic price that puts your home in the best position to attract strong offers without leaving money on the table.
Negotiator You Want in Your Corner
Craig’s been negotiating his whole life—whether it was for his fire department or for his clients now. He’s not about playing games; he’s about getting the best deal possible. Price, terms, timelines—he makes sure every piece of the puzzle works for you.
No Stress, Just Solutions
Selling a home is a big deal, but Craig keeps it manageable. He’s the guy who answers your calls, keeps things moving, and makes sure you know what’s coming next. Need help with transitional stuff like cleaning or repairs? He’s got it covered. No drama, just results.
A Straight Shooter
Craig’s the kind of agent who tells it like it is. He won’t sugarcoat things, but he’ll guide you through the process with patience and a clear plan. Whether it’s talking through an offer or walking through last-minute changes, Craig’s focus is always on making sure you’re taken care of.
With Craig, selling your home isn’t about flashy gimmicks or unnecessary stress—it’s about getting the job done right with someone who truly cares about your success.
Free Property Finder
Zillow might be the go-to for browsing homes, but many of my clients love the personalized experience of using my custom app. Download it for FREE today!
Looking For A Quality Lender
Getting approved is the first big step to kickstart your home-buying journey—and it’s a step that can make or break your success. Working with a trusted lender who can walk you through costs, taxes, and everything else ahead is essential to staying prepared and confident. No surprise cost adjustments or hidden closing fees—just transparency and support. Talk to our preferred lender at National Home Lending today to get started on the right foot!
Testimonials
Aaron Mackie
Working with Craig was an absolute pleasure, and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to hire him. He made the entire process seamless, handling every detail with professionalism and efficiency. Thanks to his expertise, we completed the deal effortlessly, and the experience was by far the smoothest home-buying process we've ever had. Craig truly exceeded our expectations and made what can often be a stressful experience feel easy and enjoyable
DLon Schneider
Very honest, trust worthy, and decated. Craig took time to answer our questions. I was impressed right away & he guided us along the way with selling my home. I can't wait to use Craig again in the near future with buying or retirement home..
Ken Legg
We really lucked out finding Craig. He's the best realtor around. I would recommend him 10 out of 10 times! He does his job very well and his past experiences in the construction industry lets him better inform buyers of issues with homes they're looking at. He's very punctual and is a great communicator.
FAQs
Your Real Estate Questions Answered by Craig Hickey
How Do I Estimate My Tax Bill When Buying a Home?
The best way to estimate your property taxes on a newly purchased home in Michigan is to use the Michigan State Tax Estimator. Here's a quick guide: Take 50% of the purchase price as the SEV (State Equalized Value).Fill in the necessary details on the estimator tool.The site will provide a likely "worst-case scenario" tax bill.This method helps protect you from surprises like an escrow shortage or unexpected increases in your monthly payments, especially if the previous owner’s taxes were capped. Keep in mind there are additional factors that could influence the final amount, but this tool is a great starting point for planning. And always check in with your lender asking about how and when the property taxes on your newly purchased home will adjust.
How do I prepare my home for sale?
How do I prepare my home for sale? Preparing your home for sale can maximize its value and attract buyers. Here are some tips:Declutter and depersonalize to allow buyers to envision themselves in the space.Make small repairs and touch-ups, like painting walls or fixing loose fixtures.Stage key areas like the living room and kitchen.Enhance curb appeal with fresh landscaping or a clean exterior.Your agent can provide a detailed checklist and recommend trusted professionals if needed.
What costs are involved in buying a home?
When buying a home, expect the following costs:Down payment (usually 3-20% of the purchase price). Closing costs, including lender fees, title insurance, and property taxes. Home inspection and appraisal fees. Moving expenses and potential repairs after closing. Your agent and lender can provide a detailed breakdown tailored to your situation.
What are the steps to buying a home?
Buying a home involves several key steps:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Work with a trusted real estate agent to identify your needs. Search for homes that meet your criteria. Make an offer and negotiate terms.Conduct inspections and finalize financing. Close the deal and move into your new home! Working with an experienced agent ensures you’re guided through each step with ease and confidence.
What Are Some Overlooked Factors to Consider When Buying or Selling a Home?
1. Flood Zone Status: Is the home located in a flood zone? If so, additional costs may apply. Flood insurance may be required by your mortgage lender, adding to your monthly expenses. Understanding the flood zoning of a property is crucial before making an offer or listing a home for sale.
2. Pre-Sale Requirements in Certain Areas: Some cities, townships, or counties have pre-sale requirements for transferring ownership. This could include mandatory inspections, certifications, or repairs that need to be completed before the sale is finalized.
For Sellers: If your home is in one of these areas, you may need to address repairs or provide documentation prior to closing.
For Buyers: Be aware that some areas hold a bond or require permits until all repairs are completed and approved.
3. Potential Impact on Costs: These requirements can influence the purchase or sale price of a home. For sellers, the cost of meeting pre-sale obligations could reduce profits. For buyers, assuming responsibility for these requirements could affect your budget after closing.
Key Tip: Always check with your agent to confirm if the home you’re buying or selling falls under any special requirements or regulations in your city or township. Staying informed can save you unexpected expenses and stress during the transaction process!
How to Choose the Right Agent for You?
Not every agent is the right fit for every buyer or seller, and that’s okay. The key is finding one who aligns with your specific needs and priorities. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the best agent for you:
1. Negotiation Skills Matter: If negotiation is high on your list, you’ll want an agent who excels in representing your interests. A great way to assess this is by looking at their list-to-sale price ratio:Lower sale prices than list prices: This may indicate the agent tends to overprice homes, which can hurt a seller’s market position.Higher sale prices than list prices: This shows the agent knows how to price and negotiate effectively, securing favorable terms for their clients.
2. Check Reviews for Compatibility: If working with someone relatable and easygoing is important to you, take time to look through Zillow and Google reviews. These testimonials give you insight into what it’s like to work with the agent, straight from their past clients—not just from what the agent tells you.
3. Understand Their Business Model: If your priority is finding a home, you’ll want to know:Is the agent full-time or part-time?How many recent transactions have they completed? Do they specialize in working with buyers or sellers—or both?Are they responsive and available to you, ensuring they’re truly dedicated to helping you find and negotiate the right home?
Choosing the right agent isn’t just about their experience—it’s about finding someone whose skills and approach align with your goals. The right match can make all the difference in your buying or selling journey!