Homestead laws allow homeowners and property owners in general to register a limited parcel of their property as a "homestead." A homestead is protected from creditors seeking to collect a debt. State homestead laws typically mandate a maximum amount of property (often expressed in dollar amounts) that may be claimed. Michigan homestead laws allow forty acres of rural land or an average-sized urban lot (up to $3,500 worth) to be set aside as a homestead. The homestead law does not apply, however,
To learn more about Michigan homestead laws, see the chart below. Related resources and additional information cab be found by following the links at the end of this article.
| Code Section | Michigan’s homestead law is found in Michigan Complied Laws section 600.6023. |
| Maximum Property Value That May Be Designated “Homestead†| The value of the designed homestead cannot exceed $3,500 of real estate. |
| Maximum Acreage That Mat be Designated “Homesteadâ€(Urban) | One lot and the house on that lot in a recorded plat, city, or village. |
| Maximum Acreage That May Be Designated “Homestead†(Rural) | Forty acres of land and the house on that homestead if the property is not in a recorded plat, city, or village. |
| Other Property That May Not be Seized by Creditors | Creditors are prohibited from seizing other property, including the following:
There are some exceptions when the property listed above may be taken from the owner, including a divorce judgment or order for spousal support or child support. |
Dealing with creditors can be stressful and overwhelming. It’s important to understand your legal rights, especially as they relate to your home. If you have additional questions, you may want to contact a Michigan real estate attorney to discuss your specific situation. Â
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Michigan Homestead Laws: Related Resources
