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.
Real Estate FAQs
Buying, selling, leasing, or disputing property often brings up legal questions you may not anticipate. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a landlord, or a business owner, it’s helpful to have accurate answers before making decisions. Below, we’ve answered some real estate legal questions that come up often but aren’t always covered in general resources. If you need more information or personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Troy real estate lawyer.
What Should I Do If A Real Estate Deal Falls Through Before Closing?
If your real estate deal falls apart before closing, the first step is to review the purchase agreement. Most contracts include contingencies that cover financing, inspections, or title issues, which could impact whether you keep your earnest money.
It’s important to understand your legal options quickly. In some cases, you may be entitled to walk away without penalties; in others, you may need to negotiate a release or even consider pursuing damages. Our Michigan real estate attorneys can review the situation, explain your contract obligations, and help you take the right steps to protect your interests.
Can A Lawyer Help With Property Line Or Easement Disputes?
Yes, an attorney can assess the legal descriptions, land surveys, and recorded easements to help resolve disputes between property owners.
Disagreements about where one property ends and another begins—or who can use a shared drive or utility path—can stall a sale or affect future property use. Our Troy real estate lawyer can work with surveyors, title companies, and the other party’s counsel to find a clear resolution based on deeds and local property law.
When Should I Involve A Lawyer In A Commercial Lease Negotiation?
You should involve a lawyer before signing or renewing any commercial lease.
Commercial lease agreements often contain terms that can affect your business for years—like who pays for repairs, restrictions on signage, or options for renewal. A review by our legal team can help you avoid terms that could increase costs or limit operations. Our Michigan real estate lawyer can review the lease, propose edits, and make sure the agreement fits your goals.
Can An Attorney Help If There’s A Problem With My Title?
Yes, a real estate attorney can help resolve title issues that come up before or after a property sale.
Common problems include liens, unpaid taxes, or claims by heirs. Title issues can delay closing or create future legal trouble if left unaddressed. Your lawyer can coordinate with the title company and, if needed, take legal action to clear the title. At Gudeman & Associates, P.C., we help buyers and sellers understand the steps needed to correct title problems.
What If A Seller Failed To Disclose Property Damage?
If you discover property damage after closing that the seller failed to mention, you may have a claim for nondisclosure.
Michigan law requires sellers to disclose known material defects. If the damage was covered up or intentionally hidden, legal action might be possible. Our real estate attorneys can evaluate the facts and help you decide whether to pursue compensation, request repairs, or file a formal claim.
Contact Our Firm For Help
Whether you’re handling a residential purchase, reviewing a commercial lease, or dealing with a dispute, having legal support can save you time, money, and stress. If you’re dealing with a property matter and need direct advice, reach out to our team today. Schedule a no-obligation consultation with our Troy real estate lawyer to learn how we can help protect your investment.
Real Estate FAQs
Whether you’re buying property, dealing with title issues, or handling zoning problems, real estate law can bring up a lot of questions. Our Troy real estate lawyer works with buyers, sellers, landlords, and property owners to help them move forward with confidence. Below are answers to a few common questions we often hear from clients.
What’s The Most Common Real Estate Law Complaint?
One of the most frequent complaints we see involves contract disputes. These can include issues with purchase agreements, delayed closings, undisclosed problems with the property, or disagreements about repairs. Buyers may feel misled, while sellers may deal with buyers backing out without proper cause.
These disputes can stall transactions or lead to legal action. We help you review contracts carefully and step in when things don’t go as planned, working to resolve the issue and protect your investment.
What Is A Lady Bird Deed?
A Lady Bird deed, also called an enhanced life estate deed, is a legal tool used in Michigan to transfer real estate upon death without going through probate.
With this deed, you keep full control of the property during your lifetime, including the right to sell or refinance. Upon your passing, the property automatically transfers to your named beneficiary. It’s a simple way to avoid probate while keeping your options open. This deed must be drafted correctly, so we help make sure everything is set up properly for your goals.
Does A Quitclaim Deed Avoid Probate?
Not necessarily. A quitclaim deed only transfers ownership rights from one party to another without guaranteeing that the title is clear. Whether probate is avoided depends on how the deed is set up. If the property is transferred with the right wording and filed correctly, it may help bypass probate.
However, if the deed is incomplete or the owner retains certain rights, probate may still be required. We help you evaluate your specific situation and decide whether a quitclaim deed is the best option.
Can I Fire My Realtor Mid Contract?
Yes, but it depends on your agreement. Most listing contracts have specific terms outlining how long you’re committed to working with a particular real estate agent.
If you’re unhappy with the service or feel the relationship is no longer working, it is possible to end the agreement—but there may be fees or penalties involved. Some brokers are willing to release clients upon request, while others may not. Our Michigan real estate attorney can review your contract and help you understand your rights and obligations before taking any action.
What Do I Need To Know About Zoning Laws In Michigan?
Zoning laws in Michigan regulate how land can be used—residential, commercial, agricultural, and more. Local governments control zoning, so rules vary by city or township. If you’re planning to build, expand, or use property for a different purpose, it’s important to check the zoning regulations for that area. You may need a variance or special use permit.
We help clients interpret zoning laws, apply for changes, and respond to violations so they can move forward with their plans.
Work With A Lawyer You Can Trust
Real estate decisions often carry long-term consequences, so it’s important to have the right support. At Gudeman & Associates, P.C., we help clients throughout the region with deed transfers, disputes, contracts, and zoning matters. If you need help from a real estate lawyer in Troy, Michigan, reach out to our firm today to take the next step toward protecting your property and your peace of mind.
