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Michigan · What this letter means

Michigan foreclosure letters and notices

The papers Michigan homeowners receive, in the order they usually arrive. Each page uses the name on the Michigan document, explains the deadline it starts under Michigan law, and lists what to do this week.

  1. Step 1

    Notice of foreclosure by advertisement

    In Michigan, most foreclosures happen without a court case. This notice, published in a newspaper and posted on your home, sets the date of the sheriff's sale. It also tells you how long your redemption period will be after the sale. Act now, because the sale can come about 4 weeks after the first publication.

    What it means
  2. Step 2

    Abandonment notices: notice of default and intention to foreclose (MCL 600.3241) and the posted notice that the lender considers the home abandoned (MCL 600.3241a)

    If a Michigan lender thinks no one lives in your home, it can post and mail a notice saying it considers the home abandoned. If you do not answer in writing in time, your redemption period after the sale can shrink from months to about 30 days. If you live there or plan to, answer right away.

    What it means
  3. Step 3

    Sheriff's deed (deed of sale) with the purchaser's redemption affidavit

    After a Michigan sheriff's sale, the buyer gets a sheriff's deed, but it does not take effect until your redemption period ends. The deed and the buyer's affidavit, recorded at the county register of deeds, show your last day to redeem and the exact amount. Until then you can live in the home and buy it back.

    What it means
  4. Step 4

    Purchaser's notice during the redemption period (initial notice, notice of inspection, and notice of intent to start summary proceedings)

    During your Michigan redemption period, the buyer at the sheriff's sale can inspect the home and ask about its condition. Its notices start short deadlines. Answering them on time protects your right to stay until the redemption period ends.

    What it means
  5. Step 5

    Summons (Landlord-Tenant, form DC 104) and Complaint to Recover Possession of Property (form DC 102c)

    If you are still in the home after the Michigan redemption period ends, the buyer must file an eviction case in district court. The summons gives a court date that can be only days away. Go to court on that date, or you can be evicted without a trial.

    What it means
  6. Step 6

    Judgment, Landlord-Tenant (form DC 105) and Application and Order of Eviction (form DC 107)

    If the judge rules for the buyer, the court enters a judgment for possession. In most cases the buyer can get an order of eviction only after 10 days. That order lets a court officer or sheriff remove you and your belongings, so use the time to move or get help.

    What it means

Got a letter not listed here? See every foreclosure letter explained, or how foreclosure works in Michigan.