Real Estate & Construction Law

Attorney Paul Callam is well-versed in all areas of real estate law, including the representation of buyers and sellers of commercial properties, lessors and lessees in retail, commercial, and industrial leases, related entity formation and structuring, landlord/tenant relations, and tax consequences of real estate transactions. With in-depth knowledge and understanding of real estate law, we help clients avoid common pitfalls and bring their real estate transactions to a close as smoothly as possible.

In addition, we provide expert legal representation for contractors, builders, and individual clients and businesses in the area of construction law. Our clients turn to us because we understand the complex and technical aspects of the construction industry and the legal ramifications that are entailed. We advise clients on the terms of construction contracts and represent owners, developers, lenders, and contractors in construction litigation, arbitration, and mediation to settle any disputes that arise out of construction, including costs of construction defects and delays. We are also well versed in all of aspects of construction liens and payment and performance bond claims.

Representative Work

• Regularly draft and review leases for major downtown Ann Arbor commercial real estate company.
• Negotiated and closed sale of high-rise apartment building in downtown Detroit.
• Malik v Salamy (Oakland Co. Cir. Ct. 2004) - Multi-party construction dispute involving $1.8M luxury home in Oakland County. Two week jury trial resulted in verdict against general contractor and title company.
• Eisenhower Construction v Michigan Dept of Transportation (Mich Ct of Claims 1988) - represented contractor claim against state for extras on paving contract. Judgment for contractor of 80% of claim.
• Brady v City of Detroit (E.D.Mich 1989) – Represented contractor and surety in claims/counterclaims arising out of major renovation of public housing project. Verdict for City of Detroit, reversed by 6th Circuit. Case settled for fraction of original judgment.
• Bigelow v Pioneer State Mutual Insurance (Genesee Co. Cir. Ct. 2009) – Represented homeowner in vacation home fire loss, resulting in favor settlement on first day of trial.