Why choose Clarkston over Bloomfield Hills or Birmingham for luxury homes?

Clarkston typically delivers 30–50% better price-per-sq-ft than ultra-luxury markets while offering comparable build quality, larger lots (often 1–3 acres+, 2–10x more land), A-level schools, lakes, golf and four-season recreation—within ~45 minutes of Detroit via I-75.

What are Clarkston’s premier luxury neighborhoods?

Oakhurst Golf & Country Club (gated, $400K–$2.6M+), Deer Lake waterfront estates (premium all-sports lake, up to 12-acre parcels), and Pine Knob-area communities near the amphitheater, ski resort, and championship golf. Other sought-after areas include Avington Park, Bridge Valley, Heather Lake Estates, Waldon Creek, and Manors of Deerwood/Clarkston.

How active is the luxury segment and how fast do homes sell?

Expect ~18–25 active $1M+ listings at a time. Competitive, well-priced homes often accept offers in 6–19 days; broader luxury averages ~19–47 days depending on condition and positioning.

What specs are typical for $1M–$2M+ homes in Clarkston?

Commonly 4–5 bedrooms, 4–6 baths, 4,800–7,800+ sq ft, walkout basements finished as full living levels, multi-car (3–4+) heated garages, office/flex spaces, chef kitchens with professional appliances, spa primary suites, extensive outdoor living, and lots from 0.5–3+ acres (waterfront often 150–225 ft of frontage).

How strong are the schools and how do they impact value?

Clarkston Community Schools (top ~20% in Michigan) offer AP/IB tracks, high graduation rates, and strong extracurriculars—key value drivers for luxury family buyers and long-term appreciation.

What lifestyle advantages set Clarkston apart?

World-class entertainment at Pine Knob Music Theatre, skiing at Pine Knob resort, 27-hole championship golf, extensive parks and lakes, and a historic downtown with acclaimed dining—all delivering an “up-north feel” close to Detroit.

Which custom builders are most active in Clarkston’s luxury market?

Notables include Post Construction, Castlewood Custom Homes, Cranbrook Custom Homes, Miller Design Build, Mazza Building & Development, SGM Homes, Clearview Homes—and others known for design-build, on-site supervision, and artisan millwork.

What should buyers know about jumbo financing and inspections?

Most $1M+ purchases need jumbo loans (higher credit, larger down payments, reserve requirements). Inspections are team-based and longer (multi-HVAC/electrical zones, pools/spas, automation). Large-lot and lakefront homes often add well/septic testing and shoreline/dock reviews.

How does location influence commuting and access?

Direct I-75 access places Detroit ~34–45 miles south; Auburn Hills ~15 minutes; Troy/Rochester Hills/Birmingham ~30 minutes; DTW ~60 minutes—balancing privacy with metro connectivity.

How does Michael Perna help luxury buyers and sellers in Clarkston?

With 24+ years and 8,000+ closings, Michael delivers micro-market pricing, jumbo-financing introductions, luxury marketing (pro photo, drone, VR), off-market access, and seasoned negotiation to secure premium results in Clarkston’s value-luxury segment.