Condo Documents Show I Legally Have Two Garages, But A Neighbor Is Using One. How Do I Reclaim It When My Hoa/property Manager Is Unhelpful?

Location: West Michigan Hi everyone. I own a condo in Michigan and bought it in 2013. At the time of purchase, I knew the unit came with a garage. I’ve been using that one garage since I moved in.

A few years ago, I found an envelope taped to my door with my last name and unit number. Inside were copies of the recorded Master Deed Amendments and subdivision plans for the condo association (photos attached). These documents clearly show that my condo unit is legally assigned two garage units. This is confirmed in the recorded amendments and the plans that correspond to my unit number.

I was never informed of the second garage when I purchased the condo. From what I understand, the previous owner may have verbally allowed the neighbor (who owns the unit above mine) to use the second garage. That neighbor continues to occupy it. There is no recorded amendment, no written transfer, and nothing in my purchase paperwork that removes that second garage from my parcel.

I contacted the property management company at the time, and they basically told me to “talk to an attorney” and didn’t assist. I’ve had ongoing issues with them, so the rapport is not good. Because of that, I feel like they will avoid dealing with this even though the Master Deed clearly states both garages belong to my unit.

My questions: 1. What is the proper legal process to reclaim exclusive use of the second garage that legally belongs to my condo unit? 2. Is the HOA or management company required to enforce the Master Deed as written? 3. Since there’s no recorded transfer, does the neighbor have any legal rights to continue using the garage? 4. What is the most effective way to approach this when the management company is uncooperative? 5. Would a letter from an attorney be enough to force action, or is there a different process I should follow?

Any guidance on the best steps to take, legally speaking, would be appreciated. I’ve already gathered the deed amendments and plans that clearly show the garage assignments, but I’m unsure how to get the HOA/management to actually act on this.

Thanks in advance.