Michigan Tenant/Landlord Laws

[Linmac]

I believe I have an extremely unusual situation here and I am hoping someone can help!!

In August 1990 my husband worked for a dairy farm in Canton, Michigan. At that time the owner of the Dairy Farm offered my husband and I a home rent free. We have lived here ever since. In 2000 the farmer sold the land and home to another buyer, the buyer (owner) continued to let us live in the home rent free in exchange for caring for and watching the adjoining land to the home. This past January the land was once again sold, we were not even aware the land and home had been sold again, and now the new owners want "back rent" from January to July. What back rent? We have no lease, we have no contract, we just have a home we have lived in since 1990! They plan on building on this land and are awaiting permits to tear down all dwellings on this property. What rights do we have, if any? Is there anyone out there who can help??

[elklaw]

On a practical note, they can go to court for back rent, but likely would not get it. After all, you had no notice of the sale and they have not sent you notification that you have to leave the property if you do not pay rent.