Ann Arbor is one of Michigan's most competitive housing markets. Clear2 helps buyers move fast, with same-day pre-approvals, access to 50+ wholesale lenders, and a 30-day close guarantee.
Ann Arbor's housing market is unlike almost anywhere else in Michigan. University of Michigan faculty, U of M Health System employees, and a growing tech sector anchored by companies like Google and Domino's have created sustained demand in a city with very little room to build. Homes sell in 17 days at 101.8% of list price, and that number doesn't move much when rates shift.
Buyers in this market can't afford to get financing sorted after they find a home. They need a fully underwritten pre-approval before they search, a lender who can update letters same-day when an offer changes, and a broker with access to loan programs matched to Ann Arbor's buyer profile: conventional for most, jumbo for Burns Park and Geddes, bank statement for the self-employed professionals this city attracts, and DSCR for investors eyeing the student rental corridor near North Campus.
As an independent broker, Clear2 shops 50+ wholesale lenders to find rates and programs that retail banks and online lenders can't match, and we close in 30 days or less.
Dominic Patrus
Executive Mortgage Broker
NMLS #2294157 · Clear2 Mortgage NMLS #1911663 · Licensed in Michigan
Dominic Patrus began his career in mortgage underwriting and advanced to Senior Underwriter before moving into mortgage origination. His underwriting expertise helps him navigate complex loan scenarios while keeping families informed throughout the financing process.
With access to 50+ wholesale lenders, Clear2 offers every loan program available in Michigan, including programs matched to Ann Arbor's unique buyer profile: professionals, investors, and first-time buyers alike.
Down payments as low as 3%. No PMI at 20% down. Ideal for the broad $400K, $750K price range across Ann Arbor's established neighborhoods.
For purchases above the $832,750 conforming limit, common in Burns Park, Geddes, and other premium east-side neighborhoods where prices regularly exceed $900K.
12, 24 months of bank statements instead of tax returns. Strong fit for Ann Arbor's self-employed professionals, consultants, and small business owners.
Qualify on rental income, not personal income. No tax returns required. Strong fit for investors targeting student housing near North Campus and the broader Ann Arbor rental market.
3.5% down, flexible credit. Active in Pittsfield Township and south Ann Arbor entry-level pockets where prices are more accessible for first-time buyers.
$0 down for eligible veterans. Competitive rates through our VA-approved wholesale lender network. Serving veterans affiliated with VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.
Access up to 90% CLTV with a revolving line of credit. Interest-only draw period, flexible repayment. Perfect for renovations, debt consolidation, or big expenses.
Ann Arbor is not one market. Each neighborhood has its own price range, buyer profile, and competitive dynamics. Here's what Clear2's loan officers see on the ground in Washtenaw County.
Ann Arbor's most prestigious east-side neighborhood, steps from U of M campus and the medical center. Inventory is chronically limited, competition is intense, and prices regularly require jumbo financing above the conforming limit. Buyers need a fully underwritten pre-approval before they search.
Historic near-downtown neighborhood with a mix of condos and single-family homes. Walkable to the farmers market, restaurants, and the Kerrytown district. Strong demand from buyers who want urban convenience with a neighborhood feel. Conventional financing dominates.
Charming bungalows and Victorian homes west of downtown. One of Ann Arbor's most sought-after residential neighborhoods, with buyers frequently competing against multiple offers. Conventional is standard; bank statement loans are active for self-employed professionals drawn to this area.
A top-rated elementary school draw and one of Ann Arbor's best values relative to neighborhood quality. Family buyers are consistently active here. Strong conventional market; one of the better entry points for buyers priced out of Burns Park or Kerrytown.
Just outside city limits with more accessible pricing and an Ann Arbor address. The most active area for FHA financing in the broader A2 market. Families seeking Ann Arbor proximity at a lower price point look here first. Conventional also active for well-qualified buyers.
Adjacent to the North Campus research park and tech office corridor. Strong rental demand from graduate students and researchers makes this one of Ann Arbor's most active areas for investor purchases. DSCR financing is commonly used for non-owner-occupied acquisitions here.
Five-star reviews from Clear2 clients on Google.
"Donavin was straightforward and a breeze to work with. Communication was quick and easy. The whole process was seamless and he was available for guidance or questions. I would not hesitate to use Clear2 Mortgage in the future."
"Alex was absolutely amazing from the beginning. He was patient and thorough with all of our questions. He even followed up after the process was finalized to ensure everything was still good. I would recommend him to everyone!"
"The process was seamless and every question I had as a first-time home buyer was answered. My loan officer gave me his professional opinion based on my specific circumstances to personalize my loan."
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Ann Arbor?
Most conventional loans require a minimum 620. FHA allows 580 with 3.5% down. For jumbo loans above $832,750, lenders typically look for 700 or higher. Clear2 works with multiple wholesale lenders and can often find options outside those standard ranges for qualified borrowers.
How much is a down payment at Ann Arbor's median price?
At Ann Arbor's $490,000 median, a 3% conventional down payment is roughly $14,700, FHA's 3.5% is about $17,150, and 10% is $49,000. Veterans using VA financing can purchase with $0 down. These figures are before closing costs, which typically run 2, 3% of the purchase price.
How competitive is the Ann Arbor market right now?
Very competitive. Homes sell in 17 days on average at 101.8% of list price. Supply is constrained by the city's geographic limits, strong rental demand from students, and high owner-occupancy in desirable neighborhoods. Buyers who enter the market without a pre-approval in hand consistently lose to those who have one.
Can U of M employees get any special loan programs?
University of Michigan employees don't have a specific loan program reserved for them, but their stable W-2 income and benefits package make them strong conventional loan candidates. Many U of M faculty and staff qualify for loan amounts well above the conforming limit and may benefit from jumbo financing. Clear2 can walk you through your options based on your specific income and purchase price.
Is Ann Arbor a good market for investment properties near campus?
Ann Arbor has one of the most reliable student rental markets in the Midwest. Vacancy near campus is consistently low and rents are strong. Investors typically use DSCR loans, which qualify based on the property's rental income rather than personal tax returns, making them well-suited for the Ann Arbor rental market. Clear2 closes DSCR loans in Ann Arbor regularly.
Does Clear2 serve Ann Arbor buyers?
Yes. Clear2 Mortgage is licensed in Michigan and actively serves Washtenaw County buyers every day. Our main office is at 2600 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48084. Reach us at (248) 970-0040, Monday, Friday 9am, 6pm ET, or get started online any time.
Can I get a HELOC in Ann Arbor?
Yes. Clear2 offers HELOCs up to 90% combined loan-to-value (CLTV) in Michigan, including Ann Arbor. You can draw on the line as needed during a 10-year draw period and make interest-only payments. It's a strong option for homeowners looking to fund renovations, consolidate high-interest debt, or cover major expenses without refinancing. See our full HELOC program details.
No obligation, no hard credit pull. Just a clear picture of what you qualify for from a team that knows the Washtenaw County market.
Clear2 Mortgage, LLC. NMLS #1911663. Licensed Mortgage Broker. 2600 W Big Beaver Rd, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48084. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval, property appraisal, and underwriting guidelines. Rates and terms subject to change without notice.
