If you are considering adding property to your investment portfolio or are about to enter a real estate transaction, protect your rights and call Gudeman & Associates P.C. today. Our Troy, MI real estate lawyer will put your best interests first. Schedule a no-obligation consultation now and learn about your options.
When to Hire a Real Estate Lawyer
Any transaction involving a piece of property benefits from review by our real estate lawyer. We have experience with real estate matters such as:
- Buying or selling commercial and residential property
- Research titles and noting potential issues
- Drafting and enforcing rental agreements
- Dealing with HOAs
- Determining how land can be used
- Managing and disputing property taxes
- Representing you in court regarding real estate litigation
Our real estate lawyer works with developers, owners, and investors. Regardless of the stage you are in, seek legal guidance for your real estate transaction to avoid delays or expensive pitfalls.
You have to protect yourself during every step of the transaction, so don’t wait until your closing date to seek legal counsel from our real estate attorney. There may be hidden problems with the property, like title liens and other inconveniences that can turn your dream home into a nightmare. We take on the task of researching and negotiating real estate terms so you can buy, sell, and invest confidently.
Benefits of Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer
If you are a homeowner, there are several benefits to working with our real estate lawyer, such as settling property line disputes and resolving problems with your home’s deed or title. If you own an investment property, you may be considering renting it out, and our Troy real estate lawyer can help write the lease so your rights are protected. Landlords take on a lot of liability, and it’s important that you know what is expected of you under landlord/tenant law.
Prospective home buyers can use our real estate lawyer’s services to expedite the closing process by performing due diligence on the homes you are interested in. Our attorneys research the financial history and structural safety so you can invest in a property with a comprehensive understanding of your investment. We make sure you aren’t blindsided by unexpected issues.
Our real estate lawyer also helps developers by determining land use regulations, securing financing options, and handling issues with homeowners associations. We ensure your transaction goes as smoothly as possible. Our attorneys know that even the smallest problem can throw an investment project drastically off course. We are committed to developing effective real estate strategies by conducting thorough research, predicting potential hiccups, and dealing with legalities swiftly.
Buying or selling property can yield significant financial benefits. However, entering into a real estate transaction without all the information or a comprehensive understanding of the law can be costly. Whether you are buying, selling, renting, developing, or investing, our Troy real estate lawyer has a solution for you. Call the offices of Gudeman & Associates P.C. today and set up an appointment. We will discuss your goals and begin working on a winning strategy. Our firm has helped thousands of clients, and we look forward to serving you.
The Effects Of Short-Term Rental Regulations On Property Owners
The rise of short-term rental platforms has transformed property ownership dynamics, offering new income opportunities while introducing regulatory challenges. As your Troy, MI real estate lawyer, we’re here to help you understand how these regulations affect property owners. Since 1973, our team at Gudeman & Associates, P.C.—with over 100 years of combined experience—has been assisting individuals, families, and businesses throughout Southeast Michigan. Below, we’ve compiled essential information on how short-term rental regulations can affect property owners.
Understanding Short-Term Rental Regulations
In Michigan, the legal framework governing short-term rentals is multifaceted, encompassing state laws, local ordinances, and zoning regulations. The Michigan Supreme Court has clarified that local municipalities have the authority to regulate and restrict short-term rentals within their jurisdictions. This means that cities and townships can enforce zoning ordinances and licensing requirements specific to short-term rentals.
Impact On Property Owners
For property owners, these regulations can have significant implications, such as:
Zoning Compliance: Local zoning laws may restrict or prohibit short-term rentals in certain residential areas. Property owners must verify that their property’s zoning classification permits such rentals to avoid potential fines or legal disputes.
Licensing And Permits: Many municipalities require property owners to obtain specific licenses or permits to operate short-term rentals legally. This process often includes property inspections and adherence to safety standards.
Homeowners Association (HOA) Rules: In communities governed by HOAs, additional restrictions may apply. Some HOAs have enacted rules that prohibit or limit short-term rentals, even if local laws are more lenient. It’s crucial to review HOA covenants to make sure you’re maintaining compliance.
Tax Obligations: Operating a short-term rental may have tax implications, including the collection of lodging taxes and reporting rental income. Property owners should consult with a tax professional to understand their obligations fully.
To make sure you fully understand the laws and regulations surrounding short-term rental agreements, it’s important to work with our knowledgeable real estate contract lawyers who can help demystify the process.
Legal Considerations
Recent court rulings have further shaped the short-term rental landscape in Michigan. For instance, the Michigan Court of Appeals has held that short-term rentals can violate residential use restrictions in certain communities, classifying them as commercial activities. This underscores the importance of understanding both local regulations and private covenants before engaging in short-term rentals.
How We Can Assist
Our dedicated Troy real estate attorneys are committed to protecting what you have worked hard for and helping you reach your financial goals. Our land use lawyers possess a comprehensive combination of legal skills, including real estate, business planning, and federal and state taxation. We take great pride in helping members of our community understand their options and protect their financial health.
Get Legal Support For Your Short-Term Rental
If you’re considering entering the short-term rental market or need assistance with existing rental properties, our experienced Troy real estate lawyers are here to help. We can help clarify the details of local regulations, zoning laws, and contractual agreements to make sure that your rental activities are compliant and successful. Contact our property attorneys at Gudeman & Associates, P.C. today for a no-obligation consultation to learn more about short-term rental regulations.
Red Flags To Watch For Before Signing A Property Purchase Contract
When you’re getting ready to buy property, the last thing you want is a contract that creates more problems than it solves. At Gudeman & Associates, P.C., we help clients protect their investments by reviewing contracts and spotting the issues that could lead to future headaches. Here are some key red flags to look out for before signing a property purchase agreement:
Vague Property Descriptions
A contract should clearly describe the property you’re buying, including the address, boundaries, and any included structures or features. If the details are incomplete or unclear, this could lead to confusion about exactly what you’re purchasing.
Mistakes here could even affect ownership rights down the line. For example, if the legal description of the lot size is wrong, you could end up with boundary disputes or future issues with local zoning compliance in Michigan.
Missing Deadlines
Every purchase agreement should include clear deadlines for inspections, financing, and closing. Without specific dates, the deal can drag on, or worse, fall apart completely. We review contracts to help keep your transaction on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
In Michigan, inspection periods often run on tight timelines, and if you miss the deadline to raise issues, you may lose the chance to negotiate repairs or back out of the deal without penalty. Our Troy real estate lawyer will comprehensively review your contracts to help keep your transaction on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
Unclear Contingencies
Contingencies protect you by allowing the deal to end under certain conditions, like a failed inspection or financing problems. If the contract doesn’t clearly list these, you might be locked into a purchase even if serious problems come up. For instance, Michigan buyers often use financing contingencies to protect against loan denials, but if that contingency is missing or unclear, you could lose your deposit if your loan falls through.
Surprise Fees And Costs
It’s important to know who is responsible for costs like taxes, repairs, and closing fees. If the contract is vague or shifts unexpected expenses onto you, it can make the purchase more expensive than planned. Our Troy real estate lawyer can help identify these hidden costs before they become your problem.
Disputes Over Fixtures
Sometimes buyers expect certain items, like appliances or light fixtures, to come with the property, only to find out later they weren’t included. Your contract should clearly state what stays with the property and what doesn’t to avoid any confusion at closing.
Seller Disclosures Are Missing
In Michigan, sellers are required to share known issues with the property. If the contract is missing required disclosures about things like water damage, foundation problems, or pest issues, that’s a major warning sign. Without these details, you could be taking on expensive repairs after the purchase.
No Clear Consequences For Breach
Every contract should outline what happens if either party fails to meet their obligations. Without clear consequences for breaches of contract, you could have fewer options if the seller backs out or delays the process.
Sign The Dotted Line With Confidence
Buying property is a big investment, and having the right legal support can make a big difference. At Gudeman & Associates, P.C., we work with you to handle the details so you can move forward with confidence. Our knowledgeable Troy real estate lawyer is here to help you review your contract, protect your interests, and avoid costly surprises. Join our growing list of satisfied clients—contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get the support you need before signing on the dotted line.
