The Dig
A mural installation in Southwest Detroit, from the photo essay “Bordertown.” Photo credit: Erik Paul Howard
Detroit’s census lawsuit could have big ramifications for the city — and beyond
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Detroit’s census lawsuit, explained
The city’s case against the Census Bureau could have broad impacts in Detroit and elsewhere. Here’s…
The Dirt: New commission looks to protect Detroit renters
A new commission created by Detroit City Council will craft policies that reduce evictions and hold…
The Land Bank’s agreement with the city is up for renewal. Will it be any different?
Some councilmembers want to see changes, but it’s looking unlikely.
Detroit homeowner’s Land Bank nightmare might be coming to an end
Joe Belanger had to spend thousands of dollars reconnecting his home to water, even though the…
One good building: Historic Palmer Park apartment building turns 99
The Palmer Lodge turned 99 this spring. Let’s look back at the apartment building, which perfectly…
The Dirt: Detroit plans for future by preserving its past
The City of Detroit is creating a plan to preserve its historic sites and is seeking…
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Housing news, beyond the headlines
Each week, The Dig publishes a newsletter full of original reporting, insights on architecture and design and updates on projects and issues that impact Detroiters’ ability to live and thrive in the city’s neighborhoods.
The Dig is written by Outlier Senior Reporter Aaron Mondry. Aaron has been regularly reporting on Detroit real estate since 2016, covering it for Model D, Curbed Detroit and other outlets. He launched The Dig with Detour Detroit in September 2020. Outlier started publishing The Dig in August 2021.
Track development with us
For a bird’s eye view of real estate development in the city, use Outlier’s Detroit Development Tracker. You can explore projects on the map and search and view more details about developments you’re interested in. Help us add new projects and updates to the tracker by submitting a tip.
Housing resources
How to buy a house on a land contract in Detroit
So you’re thinking of buying a house in Detroit using a land contract. Congrats! This guide will help you navigate…
How to research a Detroit landlord — and spot red flags before you sign a lease
How do you go about researching a landlord — and what can you find out before you sign a lease?…
How to buy a house in cash
Paying cash for a house might, for some, conjure up images of bidding wars and deep-pocketed investors who can easily…
10 things to know about Detroit’s largest landowner
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Detroit Land Bank Authority, the city’s largest landowner.