What is a reserve study and does your Association need one?

A reserve study is an inspection of the common elements that is intended to analyze the repair and replacement needs of a Condominium or HOA. A reserve study serves two important purposes. First, a reserve study allows for an Association to accurately budget for major repairs over an extended period of time and avoid large additional…

What are the top 5 signs that your Condominium Documents need to be amended in Michigan?

It is the responsibility of the Board to enforce the Master Deed and Bylaws. MCL 559.190 allows for the Condominium Bylaws to be amended based upon a vote of 2/3 of the Co-Owners.  In certain circumstances identified in MCL 559.190a, mortgagee approval is also required to amend the condominium documents.  Many Associations run into problems…

The Top 3 Roadblocks Preventing Your Condominium Association From Obtaining FHA Certification

*This article may not reflect current changes being made by FHA which are in the process of being finalized by FHA at this time. Contact us to confirm current requirements. An FHA loan allows a buyer to purchase a condominium with a smaller down payment, and in some instances, at lower interest rates.  A purchaser can…

Who is the Developer of my Condominium?

The Michigan Condominium Act, specifically MCL 559.106(2), defines a “Developer” of a Michigan Condominium as follows: (2) “Developer” means a person engaged in the business of developing a condominium project as provided in this act. Developer does not include any of the following (a) A real estate broker acting as agent for the developer in…

3 Tips for Handling a Co-Owner’s request to install an Electric Vehicle Charging Station

1. Review the Condominium Documents. An electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) will likely need to be located on the common elements or be hooked up to common elements. The condominium documents almost always require Board approval before a co-owner can make a modification to the common elements. The Board should review the condominium documents to determine…