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New Uncapping Exemption for Ladybird Transfers

A new real estate uncapping exemption was enacted this week which formally exempts ladybird transfers to close family members from uncapping. It was signed by Governor Snyder on December 22, 2015 (PA...

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Cottage Owners, Relax: New Law Can Help Keep the Family Cottage in the Family

As Michigan's cottage season gets into full swing, it is a great time to celebrate a bit of good news for Michigan cottage owners. Recent changes in the law have made it significantly easier for...

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New Law Effective in 2015 is an Important Win for Cottage Owners

On October 9, 2014, PA 310 of 2014 (HB 5552) was signed into law by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. As stated in our previous blog, "Cottage Transfers of Ownership without Uncapping Property Tax Broadened...

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Cottage Transfers of Ownership without Uncapping Property Tax Broadened Under...

On December 27, 2012, HR-4753 was signed into law by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. As discussed in our previous blog post, "HR-4753: An Early Christmas Gift for Michigan Cottage Owners!", this law...

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Rental Cottages and Limits on Federal Income Tax Deductions

It’s a dilemma that many cottage owners face: you want to earn extra money while away from your cottage but you are worried about the hassles that come with owning a rental property. It is well known...

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Michigan State Tax Commission Issues Clarification on New Uncapping Statute

As discussed previously on our blog, on December 14, 2012, the Michigan legislature enacted a law, Public Act 497 of 2012 (HR 4753), to prevent the uncapping of property taxes on certain transfers of...

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Trespass and Nuisance: Preventative Measures

In our previous post, we discussed  common problems for property owners regarding trespass and nuisance. While enforcing your legal rights is always a possibility, litigation is never a desired...

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This Land Is Your Land - I Better Keep Off

Contrary to Woody Guthrie's catchy tune, there are many good reasons to keep your property "private" and free from uninvited guests: the potential for property damage, theft, and liability for...

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Minimizing the Legal and Financial Risks of Cottage Ownership

While cottage ownership comes with many rewards, it also comes with some financial and legal risks. Accidents and injuries that happen in the cottage, on the dock, or on surrounding waterfront...

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Tax Free Income For Up to 14 Days Rental of Personal Residence

Planning a vacation this summer but don't know how to finance it? Consider renting out your personal residence while you are away and pocketing the rental income tax-free! An interesting tax break in...

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Supreme Court Rules on DOMA: How Does it Affect Estate Planning in Michigan?

With the recent decisions regarding the constitutionality of same-sex marriage issued by the U.S. Supreme Court in U.S. v Windsor and Hollingsworth v Perry, you may be wondering how, if at all, these...

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Uncapping Continued: “Guidance” from the State Tax Commission

As we have mentioned earlier on this blog, the Michigan Legislature recently enacted a law, Public Act 497 of 2012 (HR 4753), that prevents the uncapping of property taxes on certain transfers of...

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Expectant Parents: Financial and Legal Tips

Last fall my husband and I welcomed our first child, Jack, to our family. Jack is not only our first child, but he is the first grandchild and first nephew on both sides of the family. You can only...

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Spring Landscaping Tips for Cottage Owners

Now that the snow is starting to melt and spring is right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about getting your yard (both at your residence and at your cottage) looking good for the...

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Non-Tax Reasons For Creating an Estate Plan

For most individuals  - about 99.9% - estate taxes are no longer a concern thanks to the recent "fiscal cliff" legislation. However, that does not mean that estate planning is no longer necessary. The...

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How to Simplify Your Tax Plan and Protect the Next Generation

In December important legislation was passed which affects estate planning for most Americans. As a direct result of these recent changes, we will be hosting a seminar this month, Estate Planning...

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Bill to Prevent Cottage Uncapping Signed Into Law

On December 27, 2012, HR-4753 was signed into law by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.  As stated in our previous blog, "HR-4753: An Early Christmas Gift for Michigan Cottage Owners!", this bill allows...

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HR-4753:  An Early Christmas Gift for Michigan Cottage Owners!

On December 14, 2012, House Bill 4753 was ordered enrolled by the Michigan legislature. As discussed in our earlier blog, "Proposed Legislation to Prevent Cottage Uncapping  - A Benefit to Cottage...

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Who Controls a Cottage if it is Transferred to an LLC?

Who controls a cottage after it is transferred to a limited liability company ("LLC")?  Will an owner or co-owner lose control over the decisions related to the cottage if it is transferred to an LLC?...

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Varnum Partners with Plante Moran to Present Financial Planning/Cottage Law...

Does your family's financial plan include the family cottage? The foundation to your personal financial plan is a Personal Balance Sheet. This document, which includes an inventory of your assets as...

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