Frequently Asked Questions
Tell me about University Commons
Formally opened in 2001, University Commons is a condominium community consisting of ninety-two independently owned residences. Bordering the University of Michigan’s North Campus in Ann Arbor, University Commons was originally conceived in the 1980's by university faculty members who envisioned an intellectually satisfying living style and life-long learning, combined with the convenience of condominium living.
The University Commons’ site was purchased from the University of Michigan and the community was planned in cooperation with the university. While formally a separate entity, there is a strong connection between University Commons and the university. Many recitals and musical programs are based on relationships with the University Musical Society, the School of Music, Theater & Dance, and other parts of the University.
Yes. To qualify as an owner, the person must be 55 years of age or older, and
- present or former faculty or staff of the University of Michigan, or
- degreed alumni of an accredited four-year college or university, or
- surviving spouse or surviving companion of a qualified owner.
Note: Only one member of a household must qualify as an owner.
No. University Commons is a condominium community, and it does not offer assisted living services such as personal care, housekeeping, meals, transportation, and assistance with daily chores.
No. University Commons does not provide any on-site medical or nursing services with the exception of flu shots.
University Commons is a smoke-free property both inside and outside. Employees, Caregivers, Contractors and others who must smoke may do so in a vehicle if the vehicle is fully enclosed (no open doors or windows) and the vehicle is not in the Woodbridge garage.
The founders of University Commons envisioned an active adult community where residents can engage in intellectual exchange and immerse themselves in learning and cultural events. This led to the inclusion of a 17,000 square feet common space called Houghton Hall, which hosts a rich and varied schedule of cultural, educational and social events. Part of the effort to foster community involvement includes occasional catered dinners. These are optional and are at an additional cost to the resident. Dining with a group provides an especially nice evening when combined with a lecture or concert. Catered meals are typically offered twice a month.
Located on a hill and surrounded by thirteen acres of hardwood forest and natural wetlands are five acres of community buildings. The site is about one mile from a well-maintained Ann Arbor city park and golf course, and about one block from a university commuter lot and its campus bus service. City bus service is available at the entrance to the Commons.
They are a diverse group. Some moved into UC from their Ann Arbor homes. Others come from cities and states around the U.S., and a few from other countries. Some are still actively working, while others are fully retired. Many travel a great deal, some own second homes, and many engage in volunteer work in the Ann Arbor community. The one thing they all share in common is a love for living in a lifelong learning community.
Yes. In general, residents may have one dog or up to two cats. There is an exception for new residents when they first take possession of a unit. They are allowed to bring two dogs or one dog and one cat, and keep them until one of the pets dies. Animals must be on a leash at all times. When walking the animals, residents must immediately collect and dispose of all fecal material.
All changes to the exterior of a unit and some changes to the interior of a unit must be approved by the UC Board of Directors. This includes carpeting and hard flooring surfaces. In any case, master bedrooms must be carpeted.
The large building (Woodbridge) has a heated parking garage. Each of the 60 units in Woodbridge has at least one parking space and the 8 largest units have two spaces. The Townhomes and Villas have attached garages (a 1-car or 2-car garage). In any case, vehicles may not be stored or parked in driveways or on the street over night.
You can view additional information about University Commons on this website under ABOUT and GALLERY. You can also contact the University Commons office at CONTACT.
What can I expect to pay as a Resident/Member of University Commons?
Here at University Commons, there are three monthly fees: the association fee, the program fee, and the AT&T internet and telephone fee. The amount of the monthly association fee is variable from unit to unit and is based on the square footage of each unit. The monthly program fee is the same for all units. The monthly AT&T fee is the same for all units and provides a significant cost savings to residents on their internet and telephone services. There is also a one-time $1000 association membership fee which is paid when a Purchase and Sale Agreement is executed.
- The monthly association fee is comprehensive and covers many services and expenses, such as maintenance of the grounds, snow removal, tree trimming, lawn maintenance, annual replacement of furnace filters, and semi-annual exterior window cleaning. Water and sewer costs for all units are included in this fee as well as the services of a professional management company which specializes in condominium management. In addition, a portion of the monthly association fee goes into the Replacement Reserve, a long-term fund which provides monies for capital expenditures not budgeted for as part of the annual maintenance and repair budget.
- The monthly program fee goes toward the cost of a part-time business assistant and a full-time Community Director who coordinates lectures, music programs, and classes. It also goes toward the costs of maintaining the library, shop, classrooms, and the dining and recital/lecture halls. It provides the funding for post-lecture receptions and a special biennial event, the Asa Gray Lecture. All of UC’s events are available to residents and their guests at no charge. Special events may occasionally have a fee.
- The monthly AT&T fee pays for AT&T Fiber Internet 1000 – see the AT&T website for details. Each unit has a its own gateway. This fee also includes unlimited phone service for each unit which covers long distance for US and Canada. Residents may choose their own video streaming services (if desired) and are individually responsible for paying the associated fees.
- The one-time association membership fee goes into a Restricted Fund which is used for educational and program related expenses. Software and equipment are periodically updated.
No. Unit owners pay their own real estate taxes directly.
No. Units are independently owned.
Tell me about Condominiums?
The association is a legal corporation organized and incorporated under the laws of your state or commonwealth. The association has Articles of Incorporation that entitle the association to exercise powers of a corporation. By purchasing a home within your community association, you automatically become a member of the association and will remain so for as long as you own your home. Membership in the association is mandatory and automatic for all owners. The deed to each lot and/or parcel specifically designates that the property owner will comply with the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R’s) of the association. You should have received a copy of these documents at the time your home purchase was closed by the title company. As a property owner in a community association, you will be required to pay assessments, abide by the community’s rules and restrictions and maintain those areas of your home for which you are responsible.
Your management company has a Resale Department with individuals whose main objective is to help your buyer and yourself complete your transaction in a timely manner. They can provide documents required in a sale. Check our Buying & Selling section for more specific information.