Leases don't have to be in writing. But if a lease is written, it must include the name and address where the landlord will notify the tenant of changes to the lease. The lease must tell tenants they must give the landlord a forwarding address in writing where they can be reached within four days after moving out.
The main difference between leasing and renting a property is the length of the contract. Leasehold is usually granted for at least 21 years and can last as long as 999 years.
In the law of several US states, a 99-year lease will always be the longest possible contract for realty by statute, but many states have enacted shorter terms and some allow infinite terms.
The maximum lease term for a residential property would, technically, be the lifetime of a signatory to the lease.
To legally operate as a landlord in Michigan, you must apply for a rental license with LARA and obtain a landlord certificate from the local county clerk's office. This certification process ensures that you meet the state requirements and are qualified to manage rental properties within Michigan.
In the law of several US states, a 99-year lease will always be the longest possible contract for realty by statute, but many states have enacted shorter terms and some allow infinite terms.
The lease length can differ based on your location, property type, needs, and the current state of the market. Residential leases are shorter, typically around 6 months to a year. Commercial leases, depending on various factors, can range from 3 years to 10 or more.
To legally rent out a property in Michigan, a landlord must ensure the property meets health and safety codes, provide a habitable housing condition, follow fair housing laws, and have a clear rental agreement with the tenant.
Michigan is generally considered a landlord-friendly state since there aren't many regulations regarding rent control policies, late fees, or grace periods. However, due to the high amount of renters in the state, Michigan can also be considered a great place for tenants to find a place to live without too many issues.