Austin Black II — Detroit Real Estate Broker Who Lives, Loves, and Knows the City
Clients describe award-winning real estate broker Austin Black II as "an absolute all-star" with "an ability to get things done that is second to none." Known for his deep local expertise and exceptional client service, Austin lives in Detroit, loves Detroit, and knows Detroit. His passion for the city shines through in every aspect of his work—from representing clients in its most storied neighborhoods to supporting the people and institutions shaping its future.
Since 2005, Austin has guided buyers and sellers through Detroit's dynamic real-estate market with professionalism, insight, and care. In 2010, he founded City Living Detroit, a real-estate brokerage built on integrity, architectural appreciation, and a love of urban living. Under his leadership, the firm became one of Detroit's most respected names in residential real estate. In 2022, Austin joined @properties Christie's International Real Estate as Co-Managing Broker of the Birmingham office, maintaining City Living Detroit as his personal brand within the company. This partnership allows him to combine boutique service with world-class marketing, technology, and global reach.
Austin represents clients across every price point—from first-time buyers to multimillion-dollar estates—with specialized expertise in:
Historic Detroit Neighborhoods: Palmer Woods, Sherwood Forest, University District, Boston-Edison, Indian Village, Detroit Golf Club, Bagley, Green Acres, Rosedale Park, and North Rosedale Park
Detroit Condominiums: Midtown, Downtown, New Center, Lafayette Park, and the Riverfront
Woodward Corridor Communities: Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, Berkley, Birmingham, and Bloomfield Hills
Grosse Pointe Communities: Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe, Grosse Pointe Woods, Grosse Pointe Farms, and Grosse Pointe Shores
With an in-depth understanding of Detroit's neighborhoods, architecture, and culture, Austin guides clients with honesty, precision, and a deep sense of place.
Austin was born in Detroit and raised in the city until age 10, when his family moved to Okemos and later Troy, Michigan. He graduated from Birmingham Seaholm High School before attending Cornell University's College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, where he earned his degree in Urban and Regional Studies. While at Cornell, Austin studied abroad in Rome, Italy, deepening his appreciation for architecture, urban design, and the ways cities evolve over time.
After college, he returned home committed to contributing to Detroit's revitalization. As a child, Austin admired the historic homes and tree-lined streets of Sherwood Forest, one of the neighborhoods he dreamed of living in as an adult. Years later, that dream became reality—he now resides there with his daughter in their 1929 Italian Renaissance home, a reflection of both his love for classic architecture and his lifelong connection to the city.
Austin serves on professional and community boards that strengthen Detroit's growth and livability. His market expertise and insights have been featured in the Detroit Free Press, The Detroit News, Crain's Detroit Business, and Hour Detroit Magazine, which has recognized him as one of Metro Detroit's Top 5% Realtors for the past 10 years. His thoughtful approach, market knowledge, and genuine care have earned him loyal clients and lasting relationships throughout the region.
Beyond his professional life, Austin finds his greatest joy in being a father. He treasures time with his young daughter—exploring Detroit's cultural, culinary, and outdoor treasures together. Their weekends often include visits to the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), the Michigan Science Center, and Eastern Market, as well as walks through Downtown Detroit and playtime at Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park along the RiverWalk. Watching her experience the city he loves reinforces his belief in the power of community and connection.
Austin is also an avid traveler who believes that exploring new places broadens perspective and deepens appreciation for home. His adventures have taken him around the world—from Cape Town, Paris, and the South of France to Italy, where his study-abroad experience first inspired his lifelong passion for cities and design. In the United States, Chicago and New York City remain among his favorite destinations for their architecture, energy, and inspiration.
Whether discovering a new corner of Detroit or exploring the world with his daughter, Austin approaches life with curiosity and gratitude. His love for travel, family, and community continually informs the way he connects with his clients and the city he proudly calls home.
