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You know what they say about P-traps…every homeowner has one…or two…or three…or more! P-traps are so common, yet so...

National Fair Housing Month (hud.gov) celebrates the passage of the Fair Housing Act in April of 1968. What better time to refresh our knowledge of...

While RHAWA was successful in defeating several anti-housing providers bills this session, we were stymied in our efforts in seeking needed reforms...

What a wild ride it was during the short legislative session in Olympia this year!Thanks to the involvement of over 1,000 RHAWA members emailing...

Over the past several years we have seen rental property owners, rental property managers, and us here at RHAWA, moving away from the use of the...

RHAWA is working hard to keep track of the ever-changing landscape of rental housing regulation in various jurisdictions across Washington State....

The rent control and rent “stabilization” policies are often advanced and supported by tenant advocacy groups Non-Governmental...

My office has received a lot of inquiries lately about what a housing provider may charge when a resident breaks a lease provision. Washington law...

It has been quite a while since I’ve written an article highlighting RHAWA’s monthly LINK meetings as Legislative Session occupied much...

As the state winds down from the frenzy that was the 2024 Legislative Session in Olympia, we move our eyes to more local jurisdictions for the...

Over the last several years RHAWA has prioritized developing and nurturing relationships and strategic partnerships unique to Eastern Washington. To...

The federal CARES Act which went into effect during the COVID emergency period requires housing providers to give tenants a minimum of...

RHAWA provides screening services for members. We encourage rental housing providers to screen all prospective adult tenants. Far more than a...

Did you know that if you have an applicant who has lived in the United States for a period of time but does not provide a Social Security Number...

We are delighted to announce the availability of the 2024 edition of the Seattle Renter's Handbook, produced by the City's Renting in Seattle...

RHAWA lease forms are very thorough and include most of the information and legal clauses needed to form a legal rental agreement throughout...

Olympia, WA – On the last day and the last minute of the midway point for the 2024 Washington State Legislative session the Speaker of the...

Every now and then a bit of wisdom rises to the surface. And when it has to do with an appliance that involves a flame and natural gas in your home,...

Just as every new year starts and the holiday season comes to a close, you can be sure that another Washington Legislative Session is here....

Real estate investors are set to benefit from a recent positive shift in mortgage rates, marking a turnaround from the challenges posed by elevated...

• Frustration with city regulations is cited as a major concern.• Nearly 7,000 single-family rentals homes are no longer on the...

The importance of getting involved in state legislative sessions cannot be overstated, as it serves as a cornerstone for active citizenship and...

RHAWA is working hard to keep track of the ever-changing landscape of rental housing regulation in various jurisdictions across Washington State....

Once again small housing providers are in the crosshairs by the progressive Democrats in Olympia who do not seem to understand how they are killing...

Update to attorneys' fees provision

Another year gone by, another look at the data, and lots to digest and discuss. Some of the main themes throughout 2023 were the rental...

Get ready for an exciting event happening on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM! The Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA)...

Logic suggests that each additional occupant in a dwelling unit is likely to result in greater administrative burden, increased utility usage, more...

Today, most cities in Washington require housing providers to obtain a standard business license – some per business entity, some for each...

In the current climate of property management, the ability to make informed decisions about potential tenants is paramount to ensuring the...

Housing providers face several challenges in today’s rental market. One of the many challenges a housing provider faces is how to market their...

According to statements made by multifamily executives participating in a nationwide annual discussion on the outlook for 2024, there is an...

This time of year, when temperatures drop and the cold wind blows, everyone, and I mean everyone, seeks shelter. Rats and other critters are no...

The world of rental housing is dynamic and constantly evolving, presenting rental housing providers with new challenges and opportunities. Staying...

2024 Board of Directors Sean Flynn, Owner, Flynn and AssociatesRHAWA Board of Directors PresidentSean Flynn owns Flynn and Associates and is the...

A recently released “study” by a sociology professor at the University of Washington claims that “the Seattle rental housing...

RHAWA is working hard to keep track of the ever-changing landscape of rental housing regulation in various jurisdictions across Washington State....

The RHAWA government affairs team has been working over the past several months listening to members, tracking local jurisdictions, talking to...

Those subject to the residential rental code in the City of Tacoma are reeling with the city council-approved ordinance taking effect in July and...

Some of our readers may have seen the news stories as of late about eviction filings in King County being nearly double in October what they were in...

If you are not using a screening company that is in compliance with all the rules and regulations specific to your region, you may be sued. Where...

Volunteers are the fuel that power RHAWA. Dedicated volunteers are essential to the ongoing success of RHAWA’s programs and publications....

Here are some sustainable property maintenance best practices and modifications that can be made to your rental. As awareness about environmental...

In order to keep your rental home valuable as a rental there are three things that will keep not only your rental income low but the home value if...

When is it a bad time to offer advice about unclogging clogged sinks? Never! Even if your lease clearly states that the tenant is responsible for...

ordinance NO. 996 now effective in shoreline Ordinance NO. 996 effective 12/19/2023 creates additional resident rights in the City of Shoreline....

Like most things in life, it’s best to have a plan. Plans are necessary for making sure that things get done and are completed in the way that...

If you have been paying even a little attention to Seattle media over the last two months, you will have heard of Jason Roth, more commonly known...

With the leaves falling and days growing shorter, this is our signal the Washington State Legislature will soon be in session and the battle over...

With the passage of Tacoma Measure 1 expect a full-out frontal assault aimed at Olympia and small rental housing providers this winter. Armed by...

Just a few months ago, we made several changes to our leases and other forms in order to comply with an ordinance that changed the Tacoma Rental...

BellinghamOn November 6, 2023, voters in Bellingham approved a new tenant protection measure put forth by a group calling themselves Community First...

The 2024 Legislative Session begins on January 9, 2024, which is just around the corner. We hope you are looking forward to joining our events and...

Being part of the Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA) as a vendor member opens a cornucopia of opportunities. Your membership is more...

The citizen’s initiative, The Federal Way Stable Housing Initiative was approved by voters at the November 2019 election and certified into...

As the External Affairs Manager for RHAWA one of my new and exciting responsibilities has been to launch our new Podcast, Housing Matters. With the...

Last month, we featured a special 3-hour class covering Manufactured/Mobile Home Landlord-Tenant Act led by Attorney, Cody Branstetter. Similar to...

We all find ourselves unwillingly placed into this post-pandemic phase, many rental housing providers are asking how they are going to continue to...

Member feedback is crucial. It helps us to evaluate the quality of benefits and services provided to you by the association and its staff. Your...

This year’s Annual Business Meeting (ABM) was better than ever before; RHAWA members and leaders gathered at The Vault in Kirkland to discuss...

Tacoma Measure 1 will make it more difficult to evict a dangerous, destructive, or disruptive tenant and one provision even prohibits the eviction...

RHAWA's Ongoing Fight Against Tacoma Measure 1, King County + the US Supreme Court Tacoma Measure OneRHAWA’s Legal Defense Fund (LDF) is...

Your Rental Application and Criteria Notice is one of your most important tools when looking for a new tenant. It’s how you set the bar for...

RHAWA's Volunteer of the Year: Julie Martiniello Julie Martiniello, the proficient Managing Partner at Dimension Law Group, has been honored as...

As some of you are probably aware, there was a bill passed in this most recent legislative session that could have a massive impact on housing in...

One of the most effective yet often overlooked tasks is sealing windows and doors. This simple act of preventative maintenance can yield significant...

On October 7 RHAWA partnered with DHM Research—a non-partisan public opinion research firm—to conduct two focus groups of Tacoma...

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate and finance, loan sizes for commercial and residential rental properties have seen significant...

The fossil fuels we use in our homes and businesses are wonderful and valuable to us, but propane and natural gas also have inherent risks and...

Because this is an especially hot topic, we are rerunning a recent article summarizing Tacoma Rental Regulations, calling attention to the...

So, what is relocation assistance? Relocation assistance in basic terms says that if a property provider raises rent a certain amount year-over-year...

Tacoma, WA - The Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA) put the call out to its 5,000 members in Tacoma and across the state to help...

A few years ago, RHAWA launched a new RMAP as a very promising platform for members to do online lease signing and tenant screening while taking...

RHAWA Rental Market Update August 2023 RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports...

RHAWA is pleased to announce that on Tuesday, August 1, the Seattle City Council voted NO on Councilmember Sawant's harmful rent control...

RHAWA is always closely watching developments in the Seattle City Council, particularly Councilmember Sawant’s efforts to establish a...

Spring is a beautiful season that brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days. It is also a great time to perform certain maintenance...

RHAWA has historically offered within its suite of forms, “default notices” (those notices which are the first step before commencing...

RHAWA Rental Market Update April 2023 RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports...

Legislative Session is almost over, but your RHAWA Government Affairs team is still hard at work fighting to maintain your rights as small housing...

City of Kirkland Rental Relief Assistance Fund A program for Residential Landlords – Intended to Assist Tenants Facing Housing Barriers ...

On Tuesday, March 21st, the 9th Circuit Court ruled that Seattle's prohibition on using criminal background checks for housing did not meet the...

With Legislative Session still underway, your RHAWA Government Affairs team is hard at work fighting to maintain your rights as small housing...

RHAWA Rental Market Update March 2023 RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports...

RHAWA Rental Market Update February 2023 RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed...

It’s been a while since you’ve heard from the Partnership for Affordable Housing (PAH), but rest assured, the PAH team has been hard at...

Update On Rent Control Bills Priority Bills in the Legislature in 2023 As Legislative session in Olympia nears the policy committee cutoff on...

HB 1817 Establishing a housing gap voucher pilot program Bill Summary Creates rental assistance vouchers through housing authorities for residents...

SB 5707 Establishing a housing court pilot program Bill Summary Creates a new Housing Court Pilot Program inside District Court for counties in...

SB 5741 Establishing a housing gap voucher pilot program Bill Summary Creates rental assistance vouchers through housing authorities for residents...

SB 5697 Authorizing the utilities and transportation commission to regulate the rates and services of all persons engaging in the business of acting...

HB 1628 Increasing the supply of Affordable Housing by Modifying the State and Local Real Estate Excise Tax. Bill Summary The portion of the...

SB 5435 Protecting Tenants By Prohibiting Predatory Residential Rent Practices And By Applying The Consumer Protection Act To The Residential...

HB 1388 Protecting tenants by prohibiting predatory residential rent practices and by applying the consumer protection act to the residential...

HB 1389 Concerning residential rent increases under the residential landlord-tenant act and the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant...

SB 5197 Addressing landlord-tenant relations by providing technical changes to eviction notice forms and modifying certain eviction...

HB 1129

HB 1124 Protecting tenants from excessive rent and related fees by providing at least six months' notice for rent increases over a certain amount,...

HB 1074 Addressing documentation and processes governing landlords' claims for damage to residential premises. A landlord may not withhold a...

SB 5060 Requiring the registration of rental and vacant housing units. Bill Summary The Department of Commerce (Commerce) must create and...

The 2023 Legislative Session begins on January 9, 2023, which is just around the corner. We are looking forward to YOU joining our events and...

Several RHAWA forms have been revised as of 12/13/2022 based on the outcome of Sherwood Auburn v. Pinzon, a case related to a tenant receiving two...

Any investor who is considering selling a piece of investment real estate will undoubtedly consider a 1031 Exchange. A 1031 Exchange refers to the...

With the constant onslaught of new rental housing regulations, the most common question I get asked is, “isn’t this...

It is called the Amazon Effect — and you’ve probably heard a lot about it. The ecommerce giant has reshaped nearly everything, from the...

Every now and then we revisit this article about heating and cooling equipment maintenance because let’s face it, when it comes to the upkeep...

As we enter the fourth quarter of 2022, there have been several changes to our local multi-family real estate market since the beginning of 2022 and...

RHAWA’s Legal Defense Fund (LDF) has had to increase its focus on legal battles in order to protect the rights of housing providers. In the...

Our 38th Annual Event Will be Back In-Person! We're excited to welcome back our wonderful sponsors, vendor partners, and expert speakers for the...

RHAWA has helped housing providers across the state of Washington make the most of their rental properties for decades. As laws and expectations...

The City of Burien met on October 24, 2022 to discuss a suite of rental regulations that go far beyond the harmful policies recommended by A...

As many of you are aware, A Regional Coalition for Housing (ARCH) has proposed a suite of tenant protections to several cities throughout Washington...

You may not be taking advantage of a basic benefit of membership – free ONDEMAND courses curated with your specific needs in mind, depending...

The 38th Annual PNW Property & Innovations TRENDS Conference & Trade Show will be returning to a LIVE and in-person format! We’re...

Both state and local laws regulate the collection of security deposits from tenants at move in. These conditions will be scrutinized if the deposit...

Recently we have received feedback from some of our members that the multitude of categories in the Connect Forum are making the forum too...

On Monday, October 3, 2022, Port Townsend City Council had the first reading of Ordinance 3296, requiring increase notice periods for rent...

You have work, school, guests coming over, and everyone in the family needs hot water now. Unfortunately, life as you know it has just been...

In the Newcastle City Council meeting on September 20, 2022, following a long period of testimony and discussion, the City Council voted not to...

As the day of the general election quickly approaches, lets take a quick look back to the last two years of legislative changes. For those who do...

Ordinance No. 2986, effective October 6, 2022 creates additional housing provider restrictions in the City of Issaquah, including: Extended Rent...

In the 1031 game, if you are considering a tax deferred exchange, what kind of “Dream Team” should you have lined up?  How do you choose...

It is easier for RHAWA screen applicants who have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Social Insurance Number issued from British Columbia. RHAWA can...

The recommendations from A Regional Coalition for Housing (ARCH) continue to be a major topic of discussion among King County cities. Redmond and...

As RHAWA’s Grassroots Organizer, I am consistently interacting with our membership to get a better idea of how RHAWA can assist them in...

The Washington State Residential Landlord-Tenant Act at RCW 59.18.310 defines abandonment as non-payment of rent and the tenant’s intent to...

70% of American households have pets, and 40% have at least one pet dog. It’s likely that at some point in time a service tech is going to go...

Don’t miss this this year’s live online Seattle Housing Provider Workshop to learn everything you need to know about operating rental...

Credit reports are very important screening tools and according to the Associated Press, starting July 1, 2022, they are changing a bit. All three...

As I sift through the mountain of data that I collect every 6 months, I look for trends that have developed or any outlying numbers that catch my...

One of my favorite parts about my role as RHAWA’s grassroots organizer is the amount of time I get to spend meeting with members. I’ve...

Since the ARCH letter in April, several King County cities have been discussing and moving to pass the regulations recommended in the letter....

In RHAWA v. City of Seattle, the Washington State Court of Appeals ruled that Seattle’s ban on the accrual of interest for unpaid rent is...

As of writing this, primary election day has passed. While we have yet to get the certified results, which will be done on August 16, lets take a...

Industry regulations have become complicated as the region’s housing supply issues continue to fester. Emergency orders due to the COVID-19...

Logic suggests that each additional occupant in a dwelling unit is likely to result in greater administrative burden, increased utility usage, more...

As many of you are aware, the 2022 election is critical to the future of housing. Every House of Representative and half the Senate seats are up for...

Fair Housing starts with your screening practices. We all understand the concept of fair housing; however, at times our own personal biases can...

As many of our members are aware, Representative Andrew Barkis is a champion for rental housing providers in Olympia. To show our gratitude, we...

The Seattle City Council met on July 5 to vote once again on CB 120325 that would've required housing providers to disclose vacancy status and rent...

The question of finding and knowing who to hire to do work for us has always plagued consumers. Here are a few helpful hints that never go out of...

The RHAWA Connect Forum has a new look starting May 1st! We’ve made improvements to the forum to make it easier to find the conversations and...

Under the Fair Housing Act and Washington State law, residential tenants with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodations or...

Now is your chance to help drive the direction and future of RHAWA. If you're the person people come to when they have tough problems to solve, and...

The COVID emergency resulted in some of the most damaging rental housing policy proposals in recent memory. At times it has seemed like the tsunami...

RHAWA invites you to the 2022 Legal Forum on July 13 from 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. on ZOOM. Do you have questions or concerns regarding your rental unit?...

Getting a good deal on heating and cooling equipment for your home is all about the timing. If it’s the middle of a heatwave or a freeze and...

During these summer months many of us are running a higher volume of applications, but are you sure you are conducting a full screening? When you...

With the ever-increasing complexity of Seattle rental regulations, it’s best to check for the latest information before taking any routine...

Our brokerage (Windermere Property Management / Lori Gill & Associates) has about 1,700 homes under management, primarily single-family houses,...

There are many different reasons why an investment property owner may be considering a 1031 Exchange. As a 1031 Exchange consulting firm, we have...

Foundation Group’s Seattle property management team offers our clients multi-faceted asset and property management services to help to...

Combating new rental housing regulations in Washington has proven to be an uphill battle for housing providers in recent years. While there are...

Dispute Resolution Centers (DRCs) across the state are tasked with handling mediation between housing providers and residents when issues with lease...

RHAWA Rental Market Update May 2022 RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports...

Back in the good ol’ days, landlord-tenant laws were simple and rarely changed. Over the course of four full decades since Washington’s...

Brett Frank-Looney comes from a rich history of housing providers in the Seattle area. Despite professionally entering the industry in 2018, Brett...

According to the latest data from Seattle’s Rental Property Registration database, Seattle continues to experience an extreme decline in...

Maintaining a fixed-term tenancy is not as easy as it once was. With the passage of HB 1236, by default, every tenancy in Washington is now subject...

Our annual tradeshow brings together a wide array of instructors and exhibitors, all of whom are focused on providing you with the tools and...

Ever have a plumbing or heating issue with your rental? Want to avoid those needless expenses that chip away at your bottom line? These pearls of...

The dictionary defines “reasonable” as follows: agreeable to reason or sound judgment; logical. But in the real world, what actually...

RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports include information on Seattle, Spokane,...

The City of Kenmore has followed King County and passed a new set of housing provider regulations. The city held a study session in late February to...

Owning a rental property is a serious undertaking. It is not easy to provide a home for someone while also making good business decisions - doing...

At the beginning of covid, the City of Seattle passed a 6 month post moratorium eviction ban and a winter eviction ban. RHAWA challenged the...

The early 20th century poet Joyce Kilmer had never conceived of an MHC when he penned the poem, “I think that I shall never see a poem as...

Multi-family property owners continue to see their ability to manage their properties become more and more regulated. It’s been a tough couple...

Ready or not, here comes March! Because of the submission deadlines, as I write this article it’s still early February; still dark, cold, and...

According to the latest data from Seattle’s Rental Property Registration database, Seattle continues to experience a decline in rental housing...

RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports include information on Seattle, Spokane,...

It’s February! Ready to plant your garden, get some sun, throw open a window? Remember, February is still the middle of winter. We’ve...

Seattle City Council met today to discuss a Council resolution that had been proposed by Councilmember Sawant. It was proposed in response to Mayor...

WA State Law Housing providers are legally required to have Screening Criteria, per RCW 59.18.257. They must give written notice to prospective...

This year's legislative session has been one of the most successful legislative sessions in recent years. Thanks to your advocacy, we were able to...

RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports include information on Seattle, Spokane,...

The 2022 Legislative Session is nearly halfway done already. As the fight to defend housing provider's rights continues, we need to look both into...

Did you know that RHAWA houses a wealth of knowledge on the rental housing industry laws and best practices? Having access to this information is...

RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports include information on Seattle, Spokane,...

January has arrived, and it is a great time to schedule exterior building maintenance. Whether you have a small crack in your foundation or a...

Bill Summary Allows a tenant to sue the housing provider if they: Violate any provision of RCW 59.18 or RCW 59.20 Engaged in "Unfair, deceptive or...

Key Takeaways: What are the Four Stages of a Real Estate Cycle? What are some Current Macro Real Estate Trends Impacting Investment Real...

Bill Summary Prohibits a housing provider from advertising or operating their rental as "crime free" Prohibits a housing provider from requesting...

Last month’s article was mainly about Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves which have been required on water heaters since 1910. As a result...

Bill Summary Requires housing providers to give between 180 and 220 days notice for all rent increases over 3% The bill specifies the increase...

Bill Summary Authorizes cities and counties to create an affordable housing incentive program for housing rented at below market level. Multifamily...

VIEW SSB 5079 Bill Summary Requires manufactured/mobile home community (MHC) landlords to provide tenants with three years' notice before...

VIEW SHB 1100 Bill Summary Requires landlords to provide written notices of opportunity to purchase with respect to the sale or lease of a...

Bill Summary Requires housing providers to provide a written checklist to the tenant in order to collect a security deposit Redefines the items on...

Housing Policy Preview: A look ahead to the 2022 legislative session Last year, when Washington state lawmakers convened for a historic 2021...

Bill Summary Allows housing providers to apply for the Landlord Mitigation Fund for damage to the unit if their tenant vacated after being a...

Many of our members, either owners of multiple buildings or property management companies, have employees who manage day-to-day operations. As any...

RHAWA has teamed up with CoStar to provide periodic market updates to our members. These detailed reports include information on Seattle, Spokane,...

One of the main benefits of being a part of any trade association is the opportunity to be connected with, and learn from, knowledgeable members of...

This year, for the 2021 Legislative Session, RHA organized the Rental Housing Coalition: a partnership of housing providers, associations, and...

Any notices regarding end of tenancy must be served on the tenant under RCW 59.12.040. While other notices must simply be given to tenants in...

We have seen a number of housing providers operating without having the tenant complete an application. Requiring applicants to fill out an...

Last month we began to talk about how ‘tank’ style storage water heaters have evolved into the devices we see today, and we’ll...

Looking to expand your portfolio? If you’re sitting on a plot of land in Seattle, you may be wondering how to figure out its development...

It often times feels overwhelming trying to understand all of the laws and regulations surrounding landlord-tenant laws for the most experienced...

It is easier for RHAWA to screen applicants who have a Social Security Number (SSN). RHAWA can provide credit, criminal and eviction searches on any...

As owners and managers of manufactured housing communities, we have a legal, ethical and financial responsibility to provide as high a quality...

One of the most common missteps for inexperienced housing providers, is the handling of the deposit at move out. WA State law requires housing...

RHAWA is very happy to recognize not one … but two outstanding Volunteers who have contributed to the organization making a lasting...

Seattle's population grew by about 50,000 people between July 2018 and May 2021, but the city saw a net loss of 785 rental properties according to...

The last few articles have been about Drain Systems, clearing them when clogged and digitally documenting them. A properly designed drain system...

On February 29, 2020 Governor Inslee announced a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 18, 2020 that became the basis for the...

Governor Inslee’s eviction “Bridge” is scheduled to end on October 31. It succeeded only in providing cover for slow-moving rental...

If you have been reading the headlines since May, you know that Washington law now prohibits you from giving notice to end a month-to-month...

Seattle has enacted a 180 day notice and new relocation assistance requirements.

Washington state’s rules and regulations covering tenants and housing providers have changed in major ways in 2021. With a variety of new...

In SDCI's Annual RRIO Report delivered to the Seattle City Council, they announced that the number of rental properties registered in Seattle has...

The recent fluctuations in the United States stock market have many investors looking for more conservative and less volatile investments. On top of...

For your general information, during a press conference Governor Jay Inslee updated the bridge proclamation and extended the eviction bridge...

For your general information, today, Tuesday, September 21 Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced an extension of the Seattle’s eviction...

For tenants who are late paying rent or are in serious rent arrears, housing providers have been unable to take action or prompt tenants to seek...

The 2021 legislative session was hectic, to say the least. The lawmakers scrambled to address the rising debt stemming from the COVID pandemic and...

Our investments need protection from identifiable and hidden risks/events which inevitably occur. For the past decade, insurance companies have...

We all find ourselves unwilling placed into this post pandemic phase, many landlords are asking how they are going to continue to find responsible...

With emergency orders and new legislation coming at us from the State Legislature, Seattle City Council, and all the many cities and counties...

In many places across the state, rents are still below pre-pandemic levels, yet costs for housing providers have continued to rise. Those increased...

"If a tenant self-certifies financial hardship, Part A of CEEFPA generally precludes a landlord from contesting that certification and denies the...

Credit scores are an integral part of everyone’s financial life. A good credit score can unlock savings and other financial benefits, like...

Whether you have owned your community for years or are considering a MHC investment, the bedrock stability of any community lies in contracts with...

Way back in 1981, the City of Seattle started the trend of only allowing housing providers to end month-to-month tenancies by citing one or more...

Based on data from the May 26-June 7, 2021 Census Household Pulse Survey, 119,000 Washington State tenants have fallen behind on rent owing $3,500...

When you look at your community’s streets and lots, what do you see? Have you REALLY looked…because the burgeoning MHC investment...

Governor Inslee has once again decided to extend the statewide eviction moratorium. However, this extension is not an exact copy of the previous...

We are happy that despite a rocky start, councilmembers and specifically the sponsors of the ordinance were willing to meet with RHAWA staff,...

On Thursday, June 24 Governor Inslee held a press conference to give an update on the state's ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to...

Today the US Supreme Court issued their ruling in the only property takings case of this term, confirming the right to exclude is a fundamental...

On behalf of the rental housing industry, we offer our deepest gratitude to all Washington housing providers for stepping up and carrying a...

Cheap leadership by Councilmembers Kohl-Welles, Zahilay, and McDermott. Today during a King County council meeting on Ordinance 2021-0131, CM...

On June 7th, the Seattle City Council passed CB 120046, CB 120077, and CB 120090. The summaries of the proposed ordinances are below. CB 120046 -...

Increased restrictions, risk and stigma for Washington Housing Providers has, without a doubt, cast a shadow of lingering uncertainty, divide and...

If you’ve invested in Real Estate, you know about the upsides and may have benefited from them for many years. But, what about when it comes...

Recently, RHAWA member and housing provider, Leslie H. reached out to us looking for a list of all recently passed rental laws. She thought it would...

With the passage of HB 1236, by default, every tenancy in Washington is now subject to a for-cause termination requirement. Unlike Seattle’s...

Let’s talk about Trailer Parks…just kidding…we haven’t owned and operated “Trailer parks” for decades. Nothing...

Councilmember Kshama Sawant recently proposed an extended ban on evictions pegged to the school year. This is the latest idea purportedly meant to...

Since the start of COVID-19, the number of housing providers selling or occupying their rental properties in Washington state has increased...

The hectic 2021 virtual legislative session has finally come to an end. We must now take a step back and take a look at the plethora of bills that...

Conducting an informational inspection/walkthrough of your rental property is important periodically - we recommend at least once a year. It allows...

Local governments often utilize land use ordinances to impose limitations on manufactured housing in communities. Fortunately, over the past couple...

2020 was a difficult year for housing providers and tenants alike. Housing providers operations were severely limited with the Governor’s...

This week, RHAWA filed a notice of appeal in our case challenging Seattle’s Post-Emergency Eviction Ban and Winter Eviction Ban. These are two...

Occasionally, a manufactured housing community provider/manager finds themselves with an abandoned home and uncertain about 1) how to lawfully...

Email this new version to your Seattle tenants as soon as possible.

This year, King County residents will face property tax increases of up to 4 percent on average – and some areas may see even greater...

Financial independence means that income from your investments (like, oh, I don’t know, rental properties) is enough to cover your living...

With RHAWA’s expansion of their programs and services into the Manufactured Housing Community (“MHC”) arena, I thought I would...

VIEW HB 1496 Bill Summary HB 1496 would impose a 7 percent tax on capital gains for the sale of real property, with the exception of a primary...

Addressing landlord-tenant relations by providing certain tenant protections during and after public health emergencies, providing for legal...

VIEW HB 1441 Bill Summary Prevents a housing provider from using unpaid rent or an eviction that occurred during any state or federal covid...

Addressing documentation and processes governing landlords' claims for damage to residential premises.

Concerning property tax deferral during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Protecting residential tenants from the beginning to end of their tenancies by penalizing the inclusion of unlawful lease provisions and limiting...

What is the Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Program? In an effort to create a more equitable, less costly, and more efficient means for...

VIEW SHB 1277 Bill Summary Establishes a $100 surcharge on recorded documents to fund various housing services. Creates the Eviction Prevention...

Limiting rent increases after expiration of the governor's eviction moratorium.

VIEW HB 1228 Bill Summary Landlords may immediately file unlawful detainer actions following effective date 30 days after effective...

Concerning relocation assistance for tenants of closed or converted manufactured/mobile home parks.

Concerning the sale or lease of manufactured/mobile home communities and the property on which they sit.

Extending the closure notice period for manufactured/mobile home communities.

Providing local governments with options to grant rent relief and preserve affordable housing in their communities.

After enduring twelve months of emergency eviction bans from the Governor, the State Legislature is now poised to create new eviction ban policies...

Are you a property owner currently dealing with non-payment of rent? According to our last Membership Quick Poll, 21% of those who responded have...

RHAWA industry partners and fellow small landlords addressed the Senate Housing Stability and Affordability and Financial Institutions, Economic...

Seattle, WA – The Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA) is excited to announce a new business line as we expand our membership...

The Snohomish County Dispute Resolution Center has additional funding for housing providers in Mountlake Terrace through Volunteers of America....

Below are current morning election results for state executive and legislative races. Many races are still too close to call. This blog will be...

You may have noticed a new feature on our website the last time you logged in! We’ve introduced an accessibility feature for those members who...

After much consideration, and for the safety of our attendees and partners, TRENDS 2020 will be held as a virtual conference and trade show. We have...

Carpet is one of those things that most people don't think of as recyclable. In a landfill, the carpet does not decompose. The resources and energy...

In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, 2020 will be remembered as one of the most challenging, chaotic, and bizarre years in recent memory –...

The good news is over $100 million in rental assistance is making its way to Washington counties as part of the CARES Act. The bad news is onerous...

Governor Inslee announced on October 9, 2020 an extension of the eviction ban in place across the state through December 31, 2020. The previous...

Why you should form an LLC to own and operate your rental property. Last month, I posted a poll on the RHAWA forum asking landlords how they own and...

Washington has garnered a reputation as a leader in clean energy over the past decade, designing innovative programs for decentralized energy...

COVID-19 and the economic fallout of shutdown orders, social distancing, and job losses have affected everyone. Rental housing providers have been...

Our industry’s livelihood as rental owners, operators, and managers face an unprecedented challenge as the COVID crisis and our State’s...

Rental assistance funds for residents and housing providers impacted by COVID-19 are being made available as part of local CARES Act relief funding....

The Role of a 1031 Exchange Company 1031 Exchanges have become increasingly popular with property owners because they provide an opportunity to...

I have to say that September is my favorite month here in Washington State. It’s the 2nd driest month, (which I appreciate more and more with...

As we are still learning to navigate our world during the COVID-19 Pandemic many of us have had to make adjustments to the way we do business as...

Welcome to Champions Real Estate Services, where all Owners win! We offer premier property management services for single family homes, multiple...

Most real estate investors have heard of the 1031 exchange. Property owners utilize this tax advantage to defer taxes from the sale of their...

Niche Realty Associates is a growing, progressive, and innovative property management and real estate team serving the greater Seattle, Washington...

Next Brick Property Management, a rental property management company based in Seattle, aligns their interests with those of the property owners,...

Did you know that volunteering is one of the most beneficial actions we can take as human beings? Not only do we help needy organizations around the...

Governor Inslee announced on 7/24/2020 an extension of the evictions ban in place across the state through October 15, 2020. The order extends...

Proposed Laws in Auburn Add to Housing Woes Amidst COVID-19 Uncertainty A sweeping package of restrictive new housing laws is sailing through the...

The Pierce County Emergency Rental Assistance Program serves eligible Pierce County households who cannot pay rent during the COVID-19...

A second round of applications for the City of Tacoma’s Rental Assistance Program will be accepted from July 8 - July 15. People who meet the...

It’s not uncommon for property owners and management companies to use an unlicensed maintenance person or ‘Handyman’ to do lots of...

New Seattle Laws on Roommates Last fall, the Seattle City Council passed several new bills relating to rental housing, including CB 119606 which...

The political climate for protecting housing providers has never been more daunting. Almost every sector of normal life has been disrupted by...

A few years before working for DTG Recycle, I bought a duplex in Renton and did a full remodel inside and out. I had a lot of garbage to clean up,...

The 2020 state legislative session ended in March, and with it came substantial changes to several components of landlord-tenant law. Below is a...

Governor Inslee announced on 6/2/2020 an extension of the evictions ban in place across the state through August 1, 2020. The order extends prior...

We are quickly approaching a moment that will significantly test the resiliency of our housing system amidst COVID-19 and historic unemployment....

Spend your required clock-hours wisely learning what you need to know from attorney Chris Benis and do it whenever and wherever you want. Our 7...

Seattle City Council recently passed legislation enacting a 6-month ban on evictions after the Governor’s COVID emergency order, currently set...

RHAWA is excited to announce another evolution in the growth of our online membership benefits with the re-launch of our Connect Forum! The new...

Now is your chance to help drive the direction and future of RHAWA. If you're the person people come to when they have tough problems to solve, and...

Three bills have been passed through Seattle City Council over the past week and await to be signed into law by Mayor Durkin. These three bills...

In the past, we mostly saw roommate groups in college areas. Now, adults of all ages are likely to share rental homes in order to manage the high...

On Thursday evening, April 16, Governor Inslee updated and expanded his ban on eviction for all housing providers in the state. The new order now...

Residents across Washington State who are impacted by the economic fallout of COVID-19 are understandably worried about paying rent. With one-third...

On March 18, 2020, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced their recommendations related to forbearances during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more and...

Many landlords are wondering what exactly can and can’t be done during this COVID-19 outbreak. You will find the best resources on our...

Dear RHAWA members, The manner in which we as housing providers manage this unprecedented crisis will dictate how the public will recognize us as...

New information from the Governor today now allows in-person showings of rental units, as well as signing of documents. We are updating information...

RHAWA has released five new forms specifically focused on operating your rental unit and related issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well...

MCLEAN, Va., March 24, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freddie Mac (OTCQB: FMCC) today announced, in coordination with the Federal Housing Finance Agency...

COVID-19 represents a complete shock to Washington’s vital systems, infrastructure, and institutions. The virus is testing our world-class...

Emergency legislation would substantially expand existing short-term rental assistance for Americans impacted by COVID-19. Tacoma, WA –...

Seattle (March 14, 2020) – Mayor Jenny A. Durkan signed an emergency order to put into place a temporary moratorium on residential evictions,...

The Puget Sound region is presently experiencing the highest rate of COVID-19 illness in the country and the virus is impacting many elements of...

King County is experiencing the highest rate of COVID-19 illness in the country and the disease is impacting many elements of daily life. Decisions...

Rent Rescue’s CEO Aaron DiCaprio recently spoke about Rent Default Insurance on The Landlord Survival Show with Steve Rozenburg. Listen to the...

In the last two years there has been a dizzying amount of discussion about eviction, termination, homelessness, relocation assistance, and many...

The Washington State Legislature is entering a new phase of the legislative process as it moves rapidly towards concluding its 60-day session. The...

On February 10, the Seattle City Council took the unprecedented step of banning eviction for “Winter Months”. While there were many...

An interesting op-ed ran last week in The Lens focused on the risks which Just Cause laws pose to neighbors and other risks, from the perspective of...

STATEWIDE MANDATORY LEASE RENEWAL BILL - JUST CAUSE APPLIED TO FIXED TERM LEASES! On Friday, January 24, the House of Representatives will hold...

On January 13, RHAWA’s government affairs team began again the critical venture of advocating on behalf of private housing providers at the...

As an RHAWA member, you now have exclusive rights to use our new ONDEMAND learning platform. Launched in November, the platform is already populated...

What happens when your tenants default on the rent? You have to file for eviction and lose many months of rent. Unless you get rent default...

Nobody should be without a safe place to stay during the winter – or any time of year. Evictions are a last resort for housing providers...

For most small housing providers, the policies passed by our state legislature in 2019 felt like an assault on the very idea of rental property...

As a landlord, you always like to imagine a best-case scenario where all of your tenants are completely ideal. You dream of the tenant who always...

Seattle’s “First in Time” ordinance is coming back and may be in effect by the time you are reading this article. As its title...

Earlier this morning, the State Supreme Court ruled unanimously that Seattle’s “First in Time” (FIT) ordinance, previously thrown...

What is abundantly clear from the 2019 General election is that the issues the rental industry faced in the City of Seattle prior to the election...

Normally, it’s a great thing when your tenant wants to stay at your property. However, if the lease has ended or has been broken, no new lease...

Log in today to activate your new account! We’re excited to announce RHAWA has an all-new website! Aside from a cleaner, easier to use...

As we face the final days of 2019, there is little doubt RHAWA has endured the heaviest number of regulatory attacks in decades. The drastic...

RHAWA endorsed candidates in several jurisdictions throughout the state. This list may be found here. RHAWA's PAC didn’t weigh in on Seattle...

Not every tenant comes to you with a neon sign flashing above their head proclaiming, “I’m the ideal tenant” or “I’m...

According to EvictionLab.org, Washington’s eviction rate has continued to fall from its 2005 peak of 1.45% to 0.82% in 2016, the latest year...

Stable Homes Federal Way Initiative 19-001, submitted by Washington Community Action Network (Washington CAN), will be a ballot measure on the...

Welcome to our new website! We have a brand new look and updated technology in an effort to better serve all our members. In order to get the...

Being a landlord can be a good way to provide you with regular income as well as with the potential for capital growth. However, it can be...

In the last decade since the recession, the rental market in Washington State has recovered quickly, thanks to desirable locations like Seattle,...

On average, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 men experience some form of domestic violence at the hands of an intimate partner in America. Here in Washington...

Sponsored content provided by Betty Friant, Senior Vice President, Kay Properties & Investments, LLC The client has invested in real estate...

An article which appeared in last Saturday’s Tacoma News Tribune highlighting new landlord-tenant laws included several assertions by tenant...

On August 1, a King County judge ruled that an initiative which seeks to create a “just cause” ordinance in the city of Federal Way...

No, RHAWA would not recommend putting anything in your ad about Section 8 which can be perceived as steering voucher holders away. Remember, Section...

Effective July 28, 2019, several new landlord-tenant laws took effect which have a direct impact on how rental owners manage their properties and...

The passage of SB 5600, HB 1138, HB 1440, and HB 1462 made permanent changes to Washington State's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RLTA) and will...

QUESTION: My tenant got a job in another state and wants to terminate their lease early – it doesn’t expire until March 31, 2020. What...

While many homeowners are set to benefit from legislation which revises how excise taxes are charged for real estate transactions, the new,...

The Seattle City Council continues to propose new legislation and amend existing landlord-tenant laws under the premise of addressing housing...

April 28 brought the 2019 legislative session to a close. After 105 days in session, lawmakers, staffers, and lobbyists alike were ready for sine...

Washington is a beautiful state. The views are breathtaking and since it’s such a big state, there’s something for everyone, especially...

Homeowners insurance is a savior in cases of unexpected perils that you and your house may encounter in many forms. Most homeowners’ insurance...

RHAWA Advocacy Team The rental housing industry is faced with a broad political coalition that has been forming throughout the Puget Sound to...

Managing one property, although a bit challenging at first, is not that difficult once you get the hang of it. Managing multiple properties, on the...

Believe it or not, this isn’t a pitch to convince you to sell your apartment building. Yes, we’re apartment brokers, and at the end...

Sponsored blog content provided by Rentometer Tenants consider their cat or dog a furry family member, and most of them will pass on a property...

Investing in the real estate industry is probably the best way to make the most of your money and get back much more than you’ve invested....

Sponsored blog content provided by Rentometer We’ve added a significant expansion to our standard rent report. PRO users can now access...

We are smack in the middle of the most contentious legislative session for landlords that the state has seen in nearly 40 years. Dozens of...

Not sure if you've seen or heard by now, but it's been snowing - A LOT - in Western Washington the past few days! RHAWA has put together a quick...

Heather Pierce | Deputy Director of Government Affairs Washington State legislators are already hearing bills that would drastically alter the RLTA...

Our community has donated wonderful gifts for our families through the Mary’s Place Holiday Giving Tagsprogram this season, and now it’s...

On December 3, 2018 the Renton City Council held a first reading of Ordinance 5913 or RMC 4.5.125, the Residential Rental Registration and...

Heather Pierce | Deputy Director of Government Affairs Tuesday night, Tacoma City Council passed several new rental housing regulations which...

RHAWA Member Turnout is Crucial for Landlord Voices to be Heard in Burien City Council Meetings Heather Pierce | Deputy Director of Government...

The statewide Source of Income Discrimination law is now in effect with the enforcement period having commenced on September 30, 2018. This new...

On Tuesday, July 24, a group of UW researchers briefed Seattle City Council’s Human Services, Equitable Development, and Renter Rights...

PRESS RELEASEContact:Heather Pierce(206) 905-0611 | hpierce@RHAwa.orgRHAwa.org Seattle, WA – July 26, 2018 –This morning, the Landlord...

PRESS RELEASEContact:Heather Pierce(206) 905-0611 | hpierce@RHAwa.orgRHAwa.org Seattle, WA – July 24, 2018 – A group of researchers...

Monday, July, 9, 2018, the Seattle City Council voted to pass a new ordinance requiring the safe storage of and access to firearms. Ordinance 119267...

Tenant rights advocates have been fighting landlords through legislation in Seattle for 40 years. This city has many aging buildings and has been...

PRESS RELEASEFor Immediate ReleaseContact:Sean Martin(206) 905-0609 | smartin@RHAwa.orgRHAwa.org Rentberry and Seattle landlord file suit over...

Yesterday, RHAWA transmitted the following letter to Seattle City Council and the Mayor stating our opposition to the proposed head tax for funding...

Lawsuit against Seattle’s “Prohibiting Criminal Background Screening” Ordinance filed May 1 Seattle, WA – Pacific Legal...

There are several new changes in Tenant Screening within the City of Seattle this year. I’d like to talk to you about two of them that...

​The market in Seattle is changing. Simply posting an ad on Craigslist isn't going to cut it when 12,000 new units are coming online in 2018 with...

​Being a housing provider always has it's little annoyances. Some of them are bigger than others. But if you want to get involved in rental...

​​If you have been thinking about getting into a larger investment within rental housing, buying yet more houses might seem a bit unwieldy. It can...

Real Estate Investment takes many forms. It's been a popular way to gain income for awhile. Online websites like BiggerPockets, Landlordology, and...

Pets and Service Animals are a subject that we get many calls to the RHAWA Resource Desk about from our members. Many people have some anxiety...

​The busy rental season is upon us again and many housing providers will be offering their homes and apartments for open houses. However, right...

Real Estate investing can be extremely rewarding financially. If you have succeeded in your prior real estate investment activities, you may be...

​Many people see the marketing opportunity in rental housing. This is especially true in our Greater Seattle area and throughout the Puget Sound...

Investment property is a tremendous business. Being a housing provider is an exciting journey that is filled with wonderful moments, a few...

Adam Purkey | Membership Engagement Manager On April 11, RHAWA will be bringing together experts from all aspects of the rental housing industry...

​In the summer of 2016, Washington politicos spent their days obsessed with a special election State Senate race in the 44th legislative district....

You've rented to a tenant(s) and things are going along well. They are paying rent and utilities and there seems to be no problems. Until you hear...

In a hot rental market, it can be easy to buy a property that is increasing in value rather than a property that can generate positive cash flow....

The busy rental housing season is upon us and as you are reviewing your Tenant Screening Criteria, if a valid ID is apart of your complete...

It is a good idea to run an annual background check on your current tenant(s) each year to make sure that they are in compliance with the...

Chartrice Young | Tenant Screening Director Tenant screening is a vital part of the start of a tenancy. Once you have taken an application, it's...

William Shadbolt | RHAWA Board PresidentEdited by Sean Flynn | RHAWA Board Past PresidentOn Friday, February 23, Judge Suzanne Parisien...

​It might not seem like something that needs to be said, but most people would be surprised at the amount of tenants and landlords that never read...

Investing in rental properties is a time-tested strategy, but when you’re ready to get out of the grind, you could face a big tax bill....

Cameron Cowan | Knowledge Steward​We've gotten some calls over the past few months with some people who have been having some trouble getting...

​Finding ways to save money with older properties can be expensive and time-consuming. Newer buildings with modern insulation and other features are...

​Turning a unit for a new renter is an expensive and time consuming process. While renters will eventually leave, there are some things that you can...

All investments have some risk and in rental property, you're offering housing as a service and that means that there are some unique risks to this...

Many people who are renting their home for the first time don't know that their home owners insurance doesn't cover their new rental property!...

Today, Friday February 2nd is the official cutoff for most bills in the legislature. Any bill that does not have effect the state’s budget...

You've got a tenant in place, they are paying rent, and everything seems to be going well. But now what? Being a housing provider is more than just...

Call to Action!​ Senate Financial Institutions & Insurance Committee to hear Rent Control bill on Tues, Jan. 30 @ 8 am On Tuesday, January 30 @...

When people get into the rental housing industry and buy their first income property, they often buy a distressed house and fix it up, even if it is...

Property taxes have been in the news lately because of the new federal tax bill that caps the deduction of property taxes at $10,000. However,...

Next Tuesday, January 23 @ 10 am, the House Judiciary Committee will hear HB 2583 which would end the State's ban on rent control and allow cities...

If government can strip you of choice just because unconscious bias might influence that choice, its power would have no bounds. But that is...

As we head into the spring season, bed bugs might come up again in your rental property. While Bed Bugs are not typically common, we get calls here...

On May 30, 2017, the Rental Housing Association of Washington filed a lawsuit against the City of Seattle’s Move-in Fee Ordinance. We argue in...

January 31st is one of the most important days of the year for RHAWA members, and one of the best opportunities for you to affect policies made that...

Stanford University researchers recently published a new study on the impacts and effects of San Francisco’s rent control policies and the...

Having a tenancy end badly is something no one wants to have in their rental business. However, it is a reality in the life of a rental property...

When you are screening a prospective tenant, it is important to remember that in addition to checking their credit and background records, you...

The rental housing industry can be very profitable and a pathway to greater wealth. However, this industry is not for everyone. Many people get into...

​As you are getting ready to rent out your property, one of the biggest decisions you make is how rent is paid. If you are planning on traveling for...

It’s always exciting to be able to invest in the next big neighborhood. Gentrification around city centers usually goes in a pattern that...

Most rental housing news is all about Millennials and their penchant for renting over buying. However, on the other end of that demographic, their...

Like most major cities in the United States, Seattle has many older brick/masonry buildings. Brick was a popular construction material due to it's...

Most people get into real estate investing to make some extra income or create assets for retirement. However, as any of the long-term members of...

As rental property owners, lost keys are something that happen and replacing them can be expensive, nerve-racking, and troublesome, especially if...

Real Estate, and particularly rental house, has been a little slow to the digital revolution and social media but the reality is that social media...

Thanks to all the new people moving to our state, many of our members are getting applicants from out of the country. Applicants who aren’t US...

There are some really great and interesting ways to build your real estate portfolio and in this blog post we're going to talk about two of them....

America is getting to a higher state of mind. As most of RHA members know, Washington legalized the medical and recreational consumption of...

​Like anything else, tenancies do come to an end. People move on for a variety of reasons but any tenancy that starts will also, at some point,...

One of the best ways to learn how to do anything is to learn from the mistakes of others, and to take advice from seasoned veterans to heart....

October 20, 2017 Councilmember Mike O’BrienPO Box 34025Seattle, WA 98124-4025 Re: ADU/DADU legislation Dear Councilmember O’Brien, The...

​This past July, the three major credit reporting bureaus quietly changed their formula for how credit scores are calculated. Certain things from...

Sean Martin | External Affairs Director This year’s elections offers huge opportunities for the rental housing industry and our advocacy...

If you’re looking at growing your real estate portfolio for retirement or cash flow goals you have to think about how best to grow your...

In rental housing, landlords often deal with sensitive information. Keeping that information secure is important because identity theft is so...

​​It can be a bit moist here in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle gets an average of 39 inches of rain per year and stays fairly humid throughout the...

The Annual Business Meeting is our signature fall event. There is important association business to conduct and it's a great time to meet other...

Unless you own the Taj Mahal or another very expensive property, someone will eventually approach you using a housing voucher from one of several...

Sean Martin | External Affairs Director Believe it or not, turning a unit smoothly actually begins when you sign your lease with your new renter....

Rental Housing Association of Washington partners with National Purchasing Partners (NPP) to bring members exclusive discounts from brands like...

​Washington is a beautiful state and there are lots of people moving here. That has heated up the rental housing market in the greater Seattle area...

Tenant screening laws are rapidly evolving in Washington State, in particular when dealing with criminal records and how to consider an...

Cameron Cowan | Knowledge Steward ​Rental housing has a variety of pitfalls. One false move and a simple mistake could adversely affect your...

We launched our new podcast, Under One Roof in June and took the podcast to iTunes and Google play distribution in July. It is an exciting new...

At its full council meeting on August 14, Seattle City Council voted unanimously to enact an ordinance which prevents Seattle landlords from using...

Starting July 31, Seattle City Light began installing new, advanced meters with radio transmitters at properties in Seattle. Their wireless...

Cash flow should be the number one rental term that you develop a complete understanding of as a rental property investor. Cash flow is the money...

Thank you for writing to me about the Fair Chance Housing Legislation. This legislation will not go into effect until 150 days after the Mayor...

Sean Martin | Director of External Affairs Rent control is the Holy Grail for many low-income housing and tenant advocates who see it as the only...

On the 65th Washington Legislature Washington State’s 65th Legislature began its 2017 legislative session on January 9th, with the one...

Renting to your kid in college or grad school might seem like a good idea. There are some fun advantages and possibilities for collaborating with...

Dear City Councilmembers, As you’re aware, the Rental Housing Association of Washington represents more than 5,500 small, independent...

If you’re a landlord, you’re a business owner. Incorporating your rental property under an LLC is the formal creation/recognition of...

Your tenant has left. This can be at the end of the lease or an abandonment. You may have gotten the keys back or not. You open up the unit to...

What’s a landlord to do when no measure of communication successfully brings a tenant in to compliance with a term of the rental agreement?...

While we might like to believe that people are generally honest, that is not always the case. People will come to you wanting to rent your unit...

Sean Martin | Director of External Affairs An initiative filed in early-March – filed by Devin Silvernail, a tenant advocate from San...

The pathways to real estate investing and rental housing are as varied as the people who own real estate. Everyone has a story. Some people started...

This week, local elections have been in focus here at RHAWA. Our list of endorsed candidates for the primaries are now out and listed below. RHAWA...

Pets and pet policies are one of the major stressors that landlords may face. Animals can often equal damage. Here are some best practices to help...

Next week, on Thursday, July 13, Seattle Councilmember Lisa Herbold is hosting a town hall discussion panel focused on a proposal which will...

Our Summer Workshop and Tradeshow was a success! Thank you to everyone who attended and if you missed out on the show, check out the highlights and...

Ditch that homeowner’s policy in favor of some real coverage. Homeowners policies are rather a one-size fits most type of circumstances....

Every landlord has tenants they love and a few they don’t. Sometimes, to get someone into a property, landlords will lower their standards or...

Seattle, WA – May 30, 2017 – After careful legal review, the Rental Housing Association of Washington filed a lawsuit in King County...

As summer approaches, you will find more and more interest in your vacancies which means the applications will start pouring in. Are you ready?...

On May 10, Governor Inslee signed in to law, legislation which will allow property owners to have squatters removed from their property by law...

Many times you have applicants that will apply in groups of two or more. This can create a very unique situation when it comes to screening. If both...

SEATTLE -- A lawsuit in Seattle pits some fundamental rights against each other -- it’s civil rights that ban discrimination, and property...

Welcome to RHAWA’s Tenant Screening Tuesday’s. Each week we will post a discussion questions regarding the tenant screening industry...

Seattle Councilmember Kshama Sawant is continuing her political march against independent landlords as she prepares to push CB 118756 through her...

Looking to write Seattle Council in opposition to CB 118817 but don't know where to start? Consider using the sample letter below. Landlords are...

On Monday, August 8, Seattle City Council adopted new legislation which forces rental housing owners in Seattle to process applications beginning...

The City of Seattle is convening a roundtable discussion of multifamily rental property owners to provide advice and feedback on several proposed...

We now sit with only 10 days left in Washington’s 2016 Legislative Session. With the fiscal committee cutoff Monday, February 29 and the...

Last week saw the house of Origin Cutoff deadline narrow the amount of bills still alive for consideration by this year’s legislature. The...

Last week saw the end of fiscal committees consideration of bills, with lawmakers spending almost all their time in caucus with their party and...

Last week marked another successful Day On The Hill for RHA and our partners. Legislators and legislative staff have reported positive experiences...

This is a quick update for the second week of this short 2016 legislative session was highlighted by a King County Superior Court judge ruling on...

​The opening week of session is always a flurry, and this year is no exception. Of course there was the opening with all the pomp and circumstance,...

The 2016 legislative session is now under way, and that means rental property owners have a whole list of worries to consider for the next 60+...

This week the Senate confirmed that they’ve chosen a law firm to investigate the early release of over 3,000 prisoners by the Washington...

Final Legislative Summary Capital, Operating, & Transportation Budget SummariesFinally, after 176 legislative days, the Washington State...

Effective August 1st, the amount of relocation assistance required by subsection A of SMC 22.210.130 will increase from $3,255 to $3,340. This...