Michigan Condominium Association

Document Amendments January 19, 2017

Is it Time to Revisit Restrictions on Home-Based Businesses in Condominium Associations?

What do Apple Computer, Mary Kay Cosmetics, and the Ford Motor Company all have in common? These corporations all started out as home-based businesses.  With recent technological gains, more individuals are not only working from home but, in fact, more than half of all U.S. businesses are based out of an owner’s home[1].  In addition, with technological advances, many tasks…
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Fair Housing July 28, 2016

What Community Associations Should Know About the Fair Housing Act and Its Impact on Pool Rules and Regulations

With the summer heat wave in full force, it is nice to enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool to cool down.  Also, pools are not only good for cooling down but also provide numerous other benefits, including family time without the distractions of today’s technology, fitness training, stress relief, therapy and helping to keep children active.  Additionally, community pools…
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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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Financial Issues, Budgets & Reserves April 12, 2016

Taxes in Your Michigan Condominium or Homeowners’ Association: Is Your Association Current with the IRS?

As April 15th approaches, many Michigan residents are reviewing various sources of gross income, tax credits and tax deductions in order to prepare individual or joint income tax returns.  In addition to personal income taxes, newer directors may be unaware that their condominium or homeowners’ association is also required to file federal income taxes on an annual basis.  For the…
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Community Association Governance & Meetings January 26, 2016

The Difference Between an Officer and a Director: Selection, Removal and Eligibility Restrictions

In most Michigan condominium associations, the same individuals serve as both directors and officers of the nonprofit corporation in charge of the condominium.  Often times, there is confusion or misunderstanding about the difference between a “director” and an “officer.”  Thus, co-owners routinely ask our office to explain the difference and why the Condominium Bylaws[1] differentiate between directors and officers.  The…
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