What happens if property taxes are not paid in Michigan?

When property taxes are not paid in Michigan, the correct outcome is that the property may be subjected to foreclosure after a specific period of delinquency. In Michigan, if property taxes remain unpaid for three years, the property tax authority can initiate foreclosure proceedings. This means the local government can take ownership of the property and sell it to recover the unpaid taxes.

This process is designed to ensure that municipal services funded by these taxes can continue to be provided, as a lack of tax revenue can significantly impact local budgets. Property owners facing foreclosure have the opportunity to redeem their property by paying the owed taxes and any applicable interest or fees before the foreclosure is finalized. This process highlights the severity of not paying property taxes and underscores the importance of compliance for property ownership in Michigan.