Cooperative housing has been around for decades, but it is still not well understood. It is a great option for those who are looking to own a home without breaking the bank. If you've been considering cooperative housing, here's what you need to know. What is...
Detroit & Chicago Business Organizations Legal Blog
A look at discrimination and cooperative housing law
A housing cooperative (co-op) is a residency owned and operated by its members, many of whom are residents. Members get a certificate that verifies membership in the Michigan co-op. Cooperative housing laws prevent these corporations from engaging in discriminatory...
HOA laws can include pet restrictions
Michigan homeowner's associations are important organizations that protect the safety and well-being of every resident in a neighborhood. The rules should not be ignored by any homeowner, including any rule that restricts the freedoms of pet ownership. It's the...
What is a liquidated damages clause and why is it necessary?
Business owners in Michigan want to protect themselves from potential and protracted litigation. One way to do that is to have a liquidated damages clause in case a breach of contract occurs. Usually, this is found in transactions involving real estate. What is a...
Important steps when negotiating licensing agreements
Negotiations begin as soon as someone else shows interest in your idea or invention. Every major deal in Michigan must be written down in a formal agreement. Negotiations are made and continue for as long as necessary to help you get the fairest deal. Make sure it's...
What do reasonable accommodations look like for housing co-ops?
By definition, housing co-ops are more exclusive than other types of housing, such as condominiums and apartments. Thus, the board of a co-op can be more selective in what they choose to require of their shareholder-residents, and which accommodations they choose to...
What are liquidated damages?
Contract breaches occur between business enterprises. In a breach's aftermath, both parties might seek to recover their losses. Sometimes, the losses appear evident. Other instances might be ambiguous, but Michigan law does address a "gray area" loss claim. Under the...
What are key fair housing terms?
The Fair Housing Amendments Act built upon the Civil Rights Act and extended protections against discrimination in buying, renting, and financing properties. The law protects many people, including those who may have a disability. Michigan residents with a disability...
How HOAs can prevent selective enforcement
In order for an HOA to be the most effective, it needs to enforce its rules fairly among residents in Michigan. However, this doesn’t always happen, and many HOAs find themselves in the middle of a lawsuit as a result. Here’s how HOAs can keep selective enforcement...
The many options HOAs have to enforce their rules
If you're part of a Homeowner's Association, or HOA for short, there can be lots of rules to keep up with. With that in mind, you might be dealing with someone who's purposely or unintentionally violating your HOA's rules. Fortunately, your organization has a few ways...
