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Oakland Township’s real estate market is buzzing with activity as we head through 2024 and into 2025. Buyers across all segments – from first-time condo seekers to luxury estate purchasers – are on the hunt in this desirable community. In this article, we’ll explore the latest Oakland Township housing market data (prices, days on market, inventory) and dive into what today’s buyers are looking for in their next home. From must-have features and lifestyle priorities to preferences on new construction vs. resale, we’ll cover the key buyer trends shaping the market right now. Drawing on The Perna Team’s recent experience helping buyers in Oakland Township, we also share insights and guidance so you can navigate this market with confidence. Let’s dive in!
Oakland Township Housing Market Trends (2024–2025)
Oakland Township’s housing market remains strong and competitive heading into 2025, with conditions tilted in sellers’ favor. Understanding the current market numbers provides context for buyer behavior and priorities. Here’s a snapshot of the market by the numbers:
- Surging Home Prices: Home values in Oakland Township have climbed rapidly. As of early 2025, the median sale price is around $743,000, which is about 23.8% higher year-over-year. Asking prices are even higher – the median listing price hit roughly $940,000 in spring 2025, up 39% from a year prior. Even mid-range single-family homes now often sell in the high six figures, while luxury properties easily reach well into the millions. This rapid appreciation reflects intense buyer demand and means many sellers are sitting on substantial equity in their homes.
- Limited Inventory & Fast Sales: Despite a typical uptick in listings in the spring, housing supply remains very tight. Only about 120 homes were on the market in Oakland Township as of mid-2025 – relatively low for the area’s population. This shortage, coupled with steady buyer enthusiasm, keeps competition high. Well-priced homes in good condition tend to sell quickly, often going under contract in just a few weeks or even days. It’s not uncommon for a desirable new listing to receive multiple showings immediately and a strong offer shortly after hitting the market. In the broader Oakland County region, about 68% of homes sell within 30 days, with average listings going under contract in roughly one month. The bottom line: buyers need to act decisively when a great home becomes available.
- High Demand & Competitive Offers: Oakland Township is firmly a seller’s market, with far more buyers searching than there are homes for sale. Many sellers are receiving multiple offers or full-price bids. In fact, a significant share of recent sales have closed at or above asking price, and the average sale-to-list price hovers around 98–100% – meaning most sellers are getting nearly their full asking price. Move-in-ready homes that “check all the boxes” for buyers can even spark bidding wars. That said, today’s buyers are also value-conscious: not every house sells over list price, as overpriced or outdated properties may still sit on the market longer. Buyers are willing to pay top dollar if a home offers the features and lifestyle they want, but they won’t overpay for a property that doesn’t meet their expectations or needs.
- Diverse Home Types, Broad Appeal: One unique aspect of Oakland Township is the variety of home types available. The area offers everything from modern new-build condos and quaint ranch-style houses to expansive estates on multi-acre lots. Prices range widely – you might find a two-bedroom condo in the mid-$300,000s, while large custom homes with land can easily exceed $1–2 million. This diversity means a wide range of buyers are active in the market, from first-timers and young professionals to growing families and high-end luxury seekers. Each segment’s wish list may differ (for example, a condo buyer might prioritize low maintenance and affordability, whereas an estate buyer values privacy and upscale amenities). However, certain features have broad appeal across all segments. Oakland Township’s overall location and amenities – top-rated schools, abundant parks, and a tranquil atmosphere not far from city conveniences – attract buyers of all kinds. No matter the home type, there’s likely a buyer eager for it if it’s presented well.
With these market trends in mind, what exactly are Oakland Township buyers prioritizing in 2024–2025? Below, we break down the top buyer preferences and behaviors The Perna Team is seeing right now – from must-have home features to lifestyle considerations.
Home Offices and Remote Work
The rise of remote work in recent years has made a home office or flexible workspace a top priority for many buyers. House-hunters in Oakland Township are often imagining how they’ll work from home. In fact, our team frequently hears buyers ask, “Is there a home office?” when touring homes. If a dedicated office isn’t available, even a spare bedroom or den that could be converted into a quiet work area is highly desirable. Many professionals now work from home full-time or part-time, and even families want a homework or study space for children. A property that offers a productive, private spot for Zoom meetings, studying, or creative pursuits has a clear edge in today’s market. Sellers and builders have taken note – we’re seeing features like built-in desks, upstairs loft work areas, and extra flex rooms advertised to appeal to these remote-work needs. The key takeaway: buyers are increasingly prioritizing homes that can comfortably accommodate remote work and dual home-office setups, reflecting a lasting shift in how people live and work in Oakland Township.
Modern, Move-In-Ready Kitchens
It’s often said that the kitchen is the heart of the home – and Oakland Township buyers couldn’t agree more. A modern, updated kitchen consistently tops wish lists here. Many buyers are looking for kitchens with recent renovations, high-end appliances, quality countertops (granite or quartz), and an open layout for entertaining. From our recent transactions, we’ve observed that homes with renovated kitchens tend to attract more offers and even sell at premium prices. One reason is simple: buyers know the kitchen is one of the most expensive rooms to upgrade, so they deeply appreciate when it’s already been done for them. Move-in-ready kitchens – think sleek cabinets, large islands, and up-to-date finishes – allow buyers to start enjoying the home right away without the hassle of remodeling. In this market, many buyers will pay a bit more for a home that has a showpiece kitchen versus one that needs a full overhaul. Conversely, a house with an outdated kitchen may struggle unless it’s priced accordingly, because today’s buyers are somewhat price sensitive about properties needing major updates. The prevailing trend is clear: turn-key homes with stylish kitchens (and bathrooms) have a major advantage in capturing Oakland Township buyers’ attention and top-dollar offers.
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Finished Basements and Bonus Spaces
In Michigan, a finished basement is almost like a secret weapon for a home – it can nearly double your functional living space, and buyers absolutely love having that extra room. In Oakland Township, many homes (especially newer builds and larger houses) boast fully or partially finished basements, and this feature is getting a lot of attention from buyers. A finished lower level can serve as a family rec room, home theater, gym, kids’ playroom, hobby workshop, guest suite – or all of the above. It’s a huge value-add because it provides additional square footage without expanding the footprint of the house. Home shoppers often see an unfinished basement as future potential, but they see a finished basement as an immediate benefit – it’s usable bonus space from day one. According to renovation experts, finishing a basement tends to boost resale value, and we’ve certainly observed this in practice: Oakland Township listings featuring a nicely done basement (especially one with a bathroom or wet bar) tend to get higher offers and sell faster than those without this feature. Our team often hears enthusiastic comments during showings, along the lines of “This would be perfect for a home theater,” or “We could have the kids’ playroom down here”. This feedback underscores that buyers are actively imagining how to use that extra space. For today’s buyers, a finished basement or flexible bonus room isn’t just extra square footage – it’s a core part of the home’s living space and lifestyle. If a home doesn’t have a finished basement, buyers will certainly consider the possibility of adding one, but homes that come with this amenity ready-to-go have a clear advantage in the current market.
Ample Acreage and Privacy
One of Oakland Township’s signature attractions is its open, spacious setting, and buyers are actively seeking that sense of privacy and room to spread out. Many homes here sit on large lots – from half an acre to multiple acres – and this breathing room is a huge draw, especially for those coming from more densely packed areas. A backyard that isn’t right on top of the neighbors, or a house set back from the road with a long driveway, gives that peaceful, private vibe that people crave. In fact, given the township’s rural-suburban character, having extra acreage and tranquility is a top feature that can really drive buyer interest (and even justify a higher price). Families often want big yards for children to play, space for gardening, or even to add a pool or pole barn in the future. Empty-nesters and luxury buyers similarly appreciate the seclusion of a wooded lot or rolling terrain where they can enjoy nature. The recent era of remote work and staycations has only amplified this trend – homeowners want a retreat-like environment at home. We’ve seen buyers specifically zero in on properties that advertise “private wooded lot” or “over 1 acre,” knowing that type of inventory is limited. In short, the more land and privacy a home offers, the more it feeds into the lifestyle many Oakland Township buyers are looking for right now.
Energy Efficiency and Smart Tech
Today’s buyers are not only looking for beauty and space – they’re also looking for efficiency and tech-savvy features. With utility costs on the rise, Oakland Township house hunters increasingly appreciate homes that are energy-efficient and cost-effective to run. Popular green updates include things like Energy Star–rated windows and appliances, ample insulation, high-efficiency furnaces/AC units, and smart home technologies like learning thermostats and LED lighting. These upgrades might not be as visually flashy as a remodeled kitchen, but they make a big difference in comfort and long-term savings. In fact, surveys show that over 83% of buyers want energy-efficient windows in their home – a telling statistic that “green” features have gone mainstream rather than being just a niche interest. In Oakland Township, where many homes are larger and winters can be cold, such efficiency features are more than just nice-to-haves; buyers know they can significantly lower heating and cooling bills. We often point out recent energy updates when showing homes, because we know buyers value them. We hear feedback like, “Those new double-pane windows are a big plus,” or “The Nest thermostat is a nice touch,” which tells us that a home is up-to-date and well-maintained. Some higher-end homes in the area are even incorporating solar panels, geothermal heating, or EV charging stations, reflecting the priorities of eco-conscious buyers. The takeaway: features that boost a home’s energy efficiency or smart connectivity are highly attractive to 2024–2025 buyers, often giving a property the edge in a competitive market.
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Outdoor Living and Entertaining Areas
With Oakland Township’s natural beauty and spacious yards, it’s no surprise that outdoor living areas have become a top priority for buyers here. In fact, nationwide surveys show features like patios and decks are among the most desired amenities – about 86% of buyers say they want a patio in their home. Locally, we see this trend play out in real time. House shoppers are looking for ways to enjoy the outdoors at home, and properties that facilitate an indoor-outdoor lifestyle have immense appeal. Think expansive decks for summer BBQs, a paved patio for lounging and dining, a built-in fire pit for fall evenings, or even a pool or hot tub for family fun. An inviting backyard setup essentially extends the living space of the home and creates a venue for entertaining and relaxation. During open houses, The Perna Team agents often find buyers stepping onto a great deck or porch and immediately envisioning themselves there – “This would be great for hosting friends,” or “I can see myself having coffee out here in the mornings,” are common refrains. That emotional connection to a well-appointed outdoor space can really drive interest. Even simpler yards can be a selling point if they offer potential – plenty of room for a future garden, playset, or pool, for example. Given the past few years where people spent more time at home, having a private outdoor retreat is more valuable than ever. Buyers in 2024–2025 are increasingly prioritizing homes that offer a comfortable outdoor lifestyle, whether that means a big yard, a nice deck, or proximity to parks and trails. In Oakland Township, a home that delivers on outdoor living is sure to stand out to buyers who envision their next gatherings, hobbies, and relaxation happening under the open sky.
Top Schools and Community Amenities
For families especially, Oakland Township’s top-notch schools and community amenities are a major draw. This area is served by the highly regarded Rochester Community Schools district, and the reputation is stellar. In fact, all three Rochester public high schools rank within the top 50 in Michigan (with Rochester Adams High School at #8 and Stoney Creek High at #11 in recent state rankings). Access to these top-tier educational options significantly drives buyer interest – our team has worked with numerous buyers who say being in the “right” school zone was non-negotiable for them. Even buyers without school-age children recognize that strong schools help bolster property values, making a home a smarter long-term investment. Beyond schools, Oakland Township offers an exceptional quality of life that today’s buyers actively seek out. They love the balance of a tight-knit, peaceful community with convenient access to nearby city amenities. The township is dotted with parks, nature trails (like the Paint Creek Trail), and abundant green space – a haven for outdoor enthusiasts – while also being just a short drive from downtown Rochester’s shopping, dining, and entertainment. This means residents can enjoy a quiet, safe neighborhood atmosphere without feeling isolated or lacking conveniences. Buyers often ask about proximity to everyday needs like grocery stores, restaurants, and highways for commuting, and Oakland Township scores well on those measures without sacrificing its quiet charm. For example, being 5-10 minutes from shops or an expressway, yet coming home to a tree-lined subdivision or country road, is an ideal scenario for many. The community also hosts events and boasts low crime rates, which add to its family-friendly appeal. In short, many house-hunters choose Oakland Township for the lifestyle first – excellent schools, natural beauty, and an upscale but neighborly vibe – and then look for a home that fits. This trend means sellers should “sell” the community as much as the house, and buyers know they’re not just buying a property, but investing in a sought-after community experience.
Ready to Buy in Oakland Township? Plan Your Next Move
Oakland Township’s buyer trends show a market full of opportunity, but also competition. If you’re looking to find your dream home in Oakland Township, having expert guidance is key. The Perna Team is here to help you every step of the way, from identifying homes that meet your criteria to crafting a winning offer in this fast-paced market. Our team has deep local experience and insight into what Oakland Township buyers are looking for – we’ve helped many families successfully purchase homes here, and we’d love to assist you as well.
Contact The Perna Team today to get personalized buyer guidance or to schedule a one-on-one consultation. We can answer your questions about the Oakland Township market, help you understand your budget in the context of current prices, and strategize how to secure a home that checks all your boxes. Whether you’re a first-time buyer starting out or an experienced homeowner searching for that perfect Oakland Township luxury estate, we’ll provide the expertise and dedication to make your buying experience smooth and successful. Don’t navigate this exciting market alone – reach out to our team and let us help you make your Oakland Township homeownership goals a reality!
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The Perna Team and Michael Perna are the best real estate agents in Oakland Township and Ann Arbor. The Perna Team and Michael Perna have been hired as a real estate agent by hundreds of home owners to sell their homes in Oakland Township and Ann Arbor.
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