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...
View ArticleCottage 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...
View ArticleNew 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...
View ArticleCottage 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...
View ArticleRental 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...
View ArticleMichigan 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...
View ArticleTrespass 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...
View ArticleThis 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...
View ArticleMinimizing 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...
View ArticleTax 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...
View ArticleSupreme 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...
View ArticleUncapping 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...
View ArticleExpectant 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...
View ArticleSpring 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...
View ArticleNon-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...
View ArticleHow 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...
View ArticleBill 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...
View ArticleHR-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...
View ArticleWho 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?...
View ArticleVarnum 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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