Are Recordation Tax Changes Coming to DC and Montgomery County? 

Both DC and Montgomery County have initiatives before lawmakers to LOWER certain recordation taxes!

DC recently passed a bill to lower recordation taxes for first-time homebuyers but has not yet funded the program.  

Respond to the DCAR Call to Action!

An emergency proposal in Montgomery County recently increased recordation taxes, but the Council is now reconsidering how that increase is structured. One proposal being considered would lower rates for homes between $500k and $1 million.

What now?  We need YOU!  Send you comments in support of lowering recordation taxes to
mdlegislative@gcaar.com for Montgomery County.  We will get your comments to the Council and make sure your voice is heard!

Short-term Rental Regulations Are Coming

DC and Montgomery County are both in the process of putting regulations in place to address short-term rentals and or home sharing (e.g., Airbnb and VRBO).    

In DC a Bill was introduced to restrict and regulate home sharing. While we think the current Bill is too restrictive on property rights, this is an opportunity put balanced rules in place. Read the bill.

Montgomery County is looking at the issue through the Planning Board review process. The Board is seeing public comment for an upcoming Thursday, May 11 hearing on its proposal. Read the proposal and details on the meeting.

Send us your thoughts! DC: dclegislative@gcaar.com MC: mdlegislative@gcaar.com. 

Until there is clarity in the law we encourage REALTORS® and their clients to speak with an attorney or someone familiar with the current laws if they are considering renting out units on a home-sharing platform.

Reminder: Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors Required in DC

The District of Columbia now requires the installation and maintenance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in buildings with residential occupancies.  Both property owners and tenants are responsible for ensuring their units are in compliance. 

GCAAR is in the process of reviewing GCAAR forms for necessary updates – watch your email for changes!
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