Michigan Condo Lawyers

Maintenance Repairs & Common Elements June 27, 2017

The Difference Between General and Limited Common Elements in Traditional and Site Condominiums in Michigan

In Michigan, condominiums consist of either units or common elements. Common elements are further subdivided into two categories: general common elements and limited common elements. Under most Michigan condominium documents, the difference between general common elements and limited common elements is important to determine who is responsible for maintaining, repairing and replacing damage to various areas of the condominium, which…
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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,…
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Firm News January 31, 2017

Congratulations to Kevin Hirzel: Appointment to CAI National Government & Public Affairs Committee

The Community Associations Institute ("CAI") Board of Trustees recently appointed Kevin M. Hirzel, Esq. to the national Government & Public Affairs Committee for a two year term from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2018.  CAI is an international membership organization with more than 34,000 members in partnership with 60 chapters around the globe. CAI provides information, education and resources to…
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Community Association Governance & Meetings January 31, 2017

How to Revive a Defunct Michigan Homeowners Association

When a developer starts a project in Michigan, often it is easier/cheaper to create a site condominium or a homeowner’s association (“HOA”) rather than platting single family homes. As the developer sells enough units, control of the site condominium or HOA transfers to the homeowners in the project. Once the transition occurs, it is the homeowners’ responsibility for making sure…
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Bylaw & Covenant Enforcement July 13, 2016

Architectural Control: Sculptures, Statues, Lawn Ornaments, Birdbaths, and Other Items on the Common Elements or Lots

Numerous condominiums in Michigan restrict (or outright ban) sculptures, statues, lawn ornaments, birdbaths or other items pursuant to the condominium documents. Many of these provisions were drafted by the developer when creating the condominium in order to provide uniformity during the sales process. Likewise, many declarants subject a platted subdivision to deed restrictions that also restrict or ban the use of…
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