Washington, DC is the heart of our country’s capital, which makes it an enticing destination for millions of tourists, renters, and prospective property owners alike. With a wealth of outdoor attractions, historical monuments, and world-class dining options, the DC area is immensely popular and, predictably, rather pricey compared to other similarly sized cities in the US.
However, with the right professionals on your side, it’s possible to find Washington, DC real estate opportunities that align with your budget and personal preferences. Our team at Nestfully is here to guide you through the Washington DC property search process and provide you with the tips you need for a successful investment.
FAQs about property searches
Whether you’re on the hunt for commercial properties or homes, it can be a serious headache to find the property ownership information you need. To make this process a little easier, we’ve responded to a couple frequently asked questions about property searches in the Washington, DC region.
How can I find out who owns property in DC?
You can conduct a property records search by visiting the District of Columbia Recorder of Deeds office, reaching out to an attorney, or using an online search tool to look up past owners. There are public records dating back to 1921, but information may be tough to find if there are any discrepancies regarding the rightful owners of the property. It’s often easier if you have the grantee or grantor’s name and know which year the property was acquired.
Does DC have property tax?
What is the Homestead Deduction in DC?
The DC Homestead benefit is designed to reduce the assessed value of a residential property by up to $84,000. Qualifying homeowners can save hundreds of dollars per year if they meet specific criteria for the Homestead Deduction, but they must renew their application annually to retain these benefits.
What is the sales tax on property in DC?
The current deed transfer tax, also referred to as sales tax, in Washington DC is 1.1% for residential properties valued at $400,000 or less. For transfers above $400,000, the sales tax is 1.45%. For example, a property valued at $375,000 would have a transfer tax of $4,125.
Why do I need to conduct a title search?
Conducting a title search ensures that the property is free from any liens, easements, or claims that could prevent it from being sold. For example, if a former property owner passed away and the building is now being sold by someone whose name is not on the deed, this could complicate the transaction process and prevent you from acquiring a clear title. We strongly recommend consulting with an attorney if you have any questions about the results of a title search.
Discover the perfect DC real estate opportunities
Whether you dream of living in a stunning modern neighborhood in the heart of DC or investing in a fixer-upper that you can transform into the perfect home for your family, our real estate professionals at Nestfully are here to assist you. We encourage you to contact us today to learn more about the DC real estate market and begin your personalized property search.