April 8, 2026
Can a homeowners association prevent a member from using a private subdivision road to access property located outside the subdivision? And what happens when a community association waits too long to challenge an easement that has been recorded for decades? In Carnegie Woods Property Owners Association v Czajka, unpublished per curiam opinion of the Court of Appeals, November 17, 2025…
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January 28, 2026
Most condominium and homeowners associations have deed restrictions that govern the process that homeowners must follow to complete exterior alterations to their homes. Condominium and homeowners associations frequently enforce these deed restrictions to preserve neighborhood character and property values. Disputes often arise, however, when homeowners proceed with exterior changes before obtaining the required approval or meeting other requirements present in…
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September 23, 2025
Seasonal Docking Rights in Michigan Subdivisions: Understanding Property Use Restrictions Homeowners associations often adopt deed restrictions that govern the way property can be used within their communities. These restrictions can influence what property owners can place on their land and whether they can construct, replace, or expand on these items. In addition to deed restrictions, local zoning ordinances can…
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September 4, 2025
HOA Deed Restrictions: When is a View “Obstructed”? Lakefront property is often highly desired, and individuals owning these properties often wish to keep their view of the lake undisturbed. In an effort to ensure property owners are able to enjoy their lake view, homeowners associations for lakefront communities often adopt deed restrictions that protect this view and keep it free…
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August 6, 2025
Disputes over the interpretation and application of deed restrictions are often challenging for condominium and homeowners associations to navigate. These restrictions can work to prevent future development on land that is inconsistent with its intended use. However, the key to ensuring restrictive covenants are enforceable rests on clear and unambiguous drafting. In A2C2 Pship, LLC v Loch Alpine Improvement Ass’n,…
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April 17, 2025
“[R]estrictions for residence purposes, if clearly established by proper instruments, are favored by definite public policy. The courts have long and vigorously enforced them by specific mandate.” Oosterhouse v Brummel, 343 Mich 283, 287; 72 NW2d 6 (1955). Property owners within community associations across Michigan and the nation are increasingly installing swim spas in their backyards, though often in violation…
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