Before MDOT can sell excess real estate, it must be reviewed by various areas in the Department to determine if there is any transportation need for the property. If there is no future need, a legal description, sketch and appraisal are prepared. The appraisal is completed to determine the fair market value of the property.

Other units of government are given the first opportunity to purchase the property at market value. If they are not interested, we offer it to the public. You can sign up to be notified of these auctions by e-mail or mail.

At the auction
You must register to bid on property. If you are the successful bidder, you must fill out an  "Application to Purchase and Agreement of Sale form" and pay the minimum bid deposit.  

After the auction
All sales require State Administrative Board approval.   The successful bidder will be notified of the approval and will be contacted to schedule a closing.

Unsold Properties (Over-the-Counter)
Tracts that do not sell at public auction MAY be available for sale at the minimum bid price three days after the date of the public auction. You must submit the following information to the Lansing Central Office or any Region Office:

1. Written offer to purchase the property.
2. Bidsheet from the auction brochure or property identification.  The property should be identified by Tract, Control Section, and Parcel numbers.
3. Full sale price or minimum bid deposit.  Deposits should be in the form of cash, check, or money order and payable to the State of Michigan.

Priority will be given in order of receipt when submitted with the above information.  Requests that cannot be identified will be returned.  Successful applicants must complete an Application to Purchase and Agreement of Sale form.

The Department reserves the right to refuse any and all offers to purchase.  All offers are subject to approval by the State Administrative Board.

Reservations
The Department reserves the right to refuse any and all offers to purchase.  All offers are subject to approval by the State Administrative Board.

Financing Options
Cash or Land Contract