The 2021 Michigan Community Association Fact Book (the “Fact Book”) compiled by the Foundation for Association Research estimates that from July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2021 the Michigan population aged 65 and over residing in Community Associations increased from 17.7% to 18.1%. These percentages exceeded the national average for Community Association residents aged 65 and over by 1.2% in…
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For better or for worse, we live in a society where security cameras are everywhere. With the rise of technology companies such as Amazon and Google, security cameras are now available to the average consumers. For under $200.00, anyone can now buy a doorbell camera that can record high-definition video (day or night) and audio with noise cancellation. Coming from…
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Preparing an annual budget is essential for the financial stability of community associations. However, not all associations know how to effectively create an association budget. To help you with this task, here are some guidelines that will make preparing your budget a straightforward process: Create a Budgeting Committee: While it’s the board’s responsibility to create the budget, assembling a committee…
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Community Associations play a vital role in managing and maintaining the shared assets of their members. However, ensuring the safety and longevity of these properties requires meticulous planning and budgeting. In response to the tragic incident at Champlain Towers South, the Community Associations Institute (CAI) has taken decisive steps to promote safer and financially sound buildings. CAI’s newly released Reserve…
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The Surfside condominium collapse led to significant reform in the condominium lending industry. In Lender Letter LL-2021-14, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac implemented temporary lending guidelines in 2021 for condominium purchasers that desired to secure a mortgage as was previously discussed in Prepare your Condo for the new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Lending Requirements. At the request of FHFA,…
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Since 2004, the Michigan Court of Appeals has repeatedly determined that short-term rentals within Michigan communities that are subject to residential, business, and commercial restrictions are prohibited because they are commercial activities that are inconsistent with residential use. Notwithstanding this clear and consistent judicial record, property owners in communities with residential, business, and commercial restrictions who want to engage in…
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