A snapshot of the bills YOUR Government Relations Team is focusing on in the 2025 General Assembly Session

Bill Name

Rent Control

Virginia REALTORS^®’ Stance

Virginia REALTORS® opposed this bill

What Does This Bill Mean for REALTORS^®?

This year, two rent control bills were again proposed to the General Assembly.  The bills would have allowed any locality to establish a rent control ordinance that would have set an annual percentage that a landlord was allowed to increase rent. The annual allowance, and any exceptions, would have been established by a local rent control board. This type of rent control has been tried and studied in other locations around the United States. The research repeatedly shows that these types of restrictions end up decreasing the quantity and the quality of available housing. There is often a ripple effect in the surrounding housing market with less available housing overall, a decrease in quality of housing, an increase in property taxes, and ultimately less development and investment in the community. The passage of these bills would have negatively impacted small businesses and the struggling housing market around the commonwealth.

Getting it Across the Finish Line

The Virginia REALTORS® Government Relations Team testified in opposition to both of these bills on behalf of the REALTORS® of Virginia, ensuring members of both the House and Senate understood the research and ultimate effects the bills would have had on an already struggling housing market. Neither bill made it out of committee.

Want to learn more about Virginia REALTORS®’ advocacy efforts on behalf of YOUR business? Visit our website for more information.