The Michigan Court of Appeals concluded that the trial court correctly set aside the judgment of foreclosure as it was void as a matter of law. Specifically, the judgment could not have prospective application as it attempted to divide the limited common element garages from the units, which was not allowed pursuant to MCL 559.137(5). Accordingly, Michigan condominium associations should…
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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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Co-owners desire to rent units for a variety of reasons. By way of example, many co-owners desire to rent condominium units as they are underwater on the mortgage and cannot sell the unit, they inherited the unit, their job was relocated, the co-owner was required to move for health reasons, or the unit was purchased with the intent that it…
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Typically in the spring or fall, Michigan condominium associations hold annual meetings to elect directors, distribute financial statements to the Co-owners and otherwise provide an update to the membership regarding the status of the condominium. All too often, the annual meeting is sparsely attended due to Co-owner apathy, which may result in your condominium failing to meet quorum requirements. This article…
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I am honored to serve on the host committee to re-elect Justice David Vivano and Justice Joan Larsen to the Michigan Supreme Court. They have served the State of Michigan well and are model examples of jurists. A kickoff event will be held to support their re-election campaign on Thursday, May 5, 2016, at Antonio Cucina Italiana, 2220 North Canton Road, Canton, Michigan,…
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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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