Real Estate Law in Northern Virginia

Real estate transactions aren’t as simple and straightforward as they may seem. There are lots of moving parts when it comes to real estate, including landlord-tenant relations, homestead protection, adverse possession, and more. In order to ensure your real estate experience goes smoothly, you’ll need a knowledgeable team of real estate attorneys by your side.

Westlake Legal Group provides the comprehensive legal representation that tenants, landlords, and homeowners need to navigate their real estate law needs. We’ve helped clients throughout Northern Virginia understand the legal processes associated with their real estate transactions, helping them avoid entering agreements that go against their best interests. Contact our team to set up your initial consultation today.

Understanding Real Estate Law in Northern Virginia

Types of Real Estate Disputes Our Attorneys Handle

From title issues to landlord-tenant relationships, a lot can go wrong in the world of real estate. Our team has helped clients through a broad range of real estate disputes, including:

• Contract negotiation
• Mechanic’s liens, felony, and defense
• Land use appeals
• Foreclosures
• Environmental releases & violations
• Quiet title & title insurance issues
• Property tax assessments
• Lis pendens
• Eminent domain
• Ownership disputes
• Easements & rights of way
• Landlord/tenant disputes

At Westlake Legal Group, we act as your ally, helping you successfully navigate the real estate legal process. Contact our team to understand your legal options today!

Virginia’s Real Estate Laws

Real estate laws vary from state to state, and the Commonwealth enforces a few unique laws that may affect your individual case. The following illustrates just some of the legal hurdles homeowners may need to jump through in order to remain compliant with Virginia real estate laws:

• Homesteads: Virginia mandates that residents may only seek homestead tax exemptions for up to $5,000 worth of property per person, plus $500 for each dependent. Married couples and residents older than 65 may apply for up to $10,000 worth of designated homestead real estate.
• Rental Agreements: Virginia protects tenants by placing a limit on security deposits, stating that they may not be more than two months’ worth of rent. Security deposits must also be returned to tenants within 30 days of lease termination. Landlords may not discriminate against tenants based on familial status.
• Adverse Possession: Also known as continuous trespassers’ rights, adverse possession laws in Virginia state that any person who openly and notoriously controls another's property for 15 years may acquire the property’s title after that time frame.

For more information about Virginia-specific real estate laws, consult with your real estate attorney at Westlake Legal Group.

FAQs for Northern Virginia Real Estate Law

What are tenant rights?

Tenant rights are laws put in place that are meant to protect tenants from legal action by their landlords. Virginia outlines specific regulations that landlords must adhere to, including anti-discrimination laws, security deposit limits, and living conditions. Any violation of these laws may allow the tenant to seek legal recourse and collect damages. Consult with your real estate attorney to learn what options may be available to you.

What is Virginia’s civil statute of limitations?

In Virginia, there is a five-year statute of limitations on injury to personal property.

Westlake Legal Group: Northern Virginia’s Real Estate Attorneys

No matter what the problem may be with your real estate, the knowledgeable attorneys at Westlake Legal Group can help. We’ve helped countless clients throughout Northern Virginia successfully navigate their real estate legal needs, providing them the professional guidance necessary to avoid non-compliance and unfavorable agreements. Contact our team to get started with your real estate case today.