February 2017

Financial Issues, Budgets & Reserves February 16, 2017

IRS Revenue Ruling 70-604 and MCL 450.2541(2)(b): The Value of Expert Advice

Many individuals and corporations, including community associations, are currently preparing their tax returns.  For associations with excess revenue this process most likely involves a determination of whether to exercise an election under IRS Revenue Ruling 70-604.  A proper election under Revenue Ruling 70-604 can be used to reduce an association’s taxable income by deducting from taxable income any excess assessments…
Read More →
Developers February 13, 2017

Michigan Court Rules in Favor of Condominium Association in Interpreting Newly Amended MCL 559.167 (SB 610)

Kevin Hirzel recently scored an important victory for Michigan condominium associations in Cove Creek Condominium Association v Vistal Land & Home Development, L.L.C., et al., Oakland County Circuit Court Case No. 16-155706-CH (Order Granting Summary Disposition, Dated February 10, 2017).  The Oakland County Circuit Court held that the  MCL 559.167, as amended by 2016 PA 233, does not recreate “need…
Read More →
Construction Defects & Developer Turnover February 8, 2017

MCL 559.184: When Can a Purchaser Withdraw From an Agreement to Purchase a New Condominium?

Purchasing a new construction condominium is an exciting prospect for many people.  However, condominium purchasers are often provided with a large amount of information and requested to make numerous decisions in a short period of time.  In many instances, potential condominium purchasers are completely unfamiliar with condominium associations altogether.  While condominium living certainly has many potential benefits, some purchasers may…
Read More →
Community Association Governance & Meetings February 6, 2017

Why Every Condominium and Homeowners Association Should Trademark its Name and Logo

Over the past decade, the popularity of living in a common interest community, particularly condominium and homeowners associations, has risen significantly. According to recent statistics provided by Community Associations Institute, there are over 340,000 community associations, over 26 million housing units, and over 68 million residents living in these associations in the United States. As these numbers continue to grow,…
Read More →