Property & Real Estate Disputes

Real estate is often one of the largest and most important investments a person or business can make. When disputes arise over property ownership, boundaries, leases, or sales, the consequences can be serious — affecting financial stability, property value, and peace of mind. At JKH Law, we handle property and real estate disputes throughout West Michigan, protecting our clients’ ownership rights and ensuring that agreements are honored and enforced.

Common Types of Property and Real Estate Disputes

We represent individuals, homeowners, landlords, tenants, and businesses in a wide range of disputes, including:

Boundary and easement disputes – disagreements over property lines, access rights, or encroachments.
Quiet title and ownership claims – resolving competing title interests or correcting deed errors.
Breach of purchase or sale agreements – enforcing or defending real estate contracts.
Landlord–tenant disputes – lease violations, security-deposit issues, or eviction proceedings.
Construction defects and contractor claims – property damage or noncompliance with specifications.
Property damage and insurance claims – fire, storm, or water damage, including insurer denials.
Homeowners association (HOA) conflicts – enforcement of bylaws, assessments, or restrictive covenants.
Zoning, land-use, and development disputes – municipal approvals, variances, and appeals.

Michigan Property Law Overview

Property and real estate law in Michigan is governed by both statute and common law. Key principles include:

Deed and title disputes — governed under MCL 565.1 et seq., requiring clear written conveyance for transfers of ownership.
Statute of Frauds (MCL 566.106) — real estate agreements must be in writing to be enforceable.
Ejectment actions (MCL 600.2932) — used to recover possession of land wrongfully held by another.
Quiet title actions — determine and confirm ownership when two or more parties claim rights to the same property.
Easements and adverse possession — Michigan recognizes limited property rights that may arise through long-term use or access (see Kipka v. Fountain, 198 Mich. App. 435 (1993)).
Landlord–tenant law — governed by the Truth in Renting Act (MCL 554.631 et seq.) and related statutes.

Common Legal Remedies

Depending on the type of dispute, Michigan law may allow for:

Declaratory judgments – establishing ownership or contract rights.
Injunctive relief – preventing construction, encroachment, or interference with property rights.
Monetary damages – compensation for repair costs, lost use, or diminished property value.
Specific performance – compelling a party to complete a real estate sale or transaction as agreed.
Eviction or possession actions – restoring rightful ownership or occupancy.

Our Approach

At JKH Law, we combine technical understanding of Michigan property law with practical litigation strategy to achieve efficient outcomes. Whether through settlement or trial, we aim to protect our clients’ rights and investment in their property.

If you are facing a property or real estate dispute, contact JKH Law for a confidential consultation. We will review your documents, evaluate your options, and help you protect your property rights.

Contact

JKH Law, PLC
312 Fulton Street East
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 226-3762 (office)
(616) 988-6504 (fax)
info@jkhlawfirm.com
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