Are Condo Associations Responsible for Water Damage?
A recent court decision waded through the murky waters of determining responsibility for water damage in a DC condo.
Can Common Sense Prevail in a Condo Collapse?
A recent decision by the District of Columbia Court of Appeals in a case involving a condo collapse provides new perspective on negligence claims and the role of expert testimony.
TikTok Rental Scam Targets Landlords - How to Protect Yourself and Your Property in Washington, DC and Northern Virginia
Rental application fraud has evolved into a significant challenge for apartment owners. Scammers are using fake documents and online-only communication in order to secure leases with no intention of paying rent. Once a person takes possession of your residential property, it can take months and significant legal fees to secure an eviction - even if your tenant committed fraud to obtain the lease in the first place.
What You Need to Know about HOA and Condo Rules Before You Buy
When you get ready to buy a home, there’s so much to consider - location, price, mortgage rates and more. If you are buying an apartment or a townhome, chances are they will be part of a condominium or homeowners’ association. Before you commit to a property, it is essential to know how your rights are defined in the condo or HOA documents before you buy.
What Property Investors Should Know About DC Tax Sales
Tax sales can provide an opportunity for smart property investments, but investors should carefully consider the complexities of buying property at tax sales.
Virginia’s Updated Landlord-Tenant Laws: What You Need to Know
Starting July 1, 2023, Virginia tenants may be entitled to additional protections under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA).
Can I Keep My Fridge in a Foreclosure?
Though the foreclosure mainly impacts ownership of the real property, it may also affect the homeowner’s claim to the refrigerator, stove, or washing machine. Understanding when an appliance becomes a fixture of the house can provide homeowners and real estate investors a framework to negotiate a settlement agreement between the previous and new homeowners.
Turn Up the Music: the Impact of the U Street Music Hall Case on DC Lease Agreements
A new opinion from the D.C. Court of Appeals may impact how tenants and landlords negotiate options to extend a lease agreement.
Setting a New Standard for Partition of Property in Virginia
Partition suits over real property can feel like they are seeking to divide the undividable – how do you split up a home shared by multiple parties? Courts can face the question of who should keep a formerly shared property. When family members no longer can or want to live together, a common s...
How to Break Up with Your Landlord……without breaking anyone’s heart (or wallet)
Renting a home or apartment brings flexibility, but also bring challenges. When there are delays in needed repairs, changes to living situations or life circumstances, tenants may find themselves needing to modify or end their lease. Breaking up is hard to do, but a split that's fair to all invol...