Washington, DC Homes for Sale

Washington, DC has relatively moderate property taxes compared to nearby jurisdictions like Maryland or Virginia. The current residential rate is $0.85 per $100 of assessed value, with potential exemptions for owner-occupants, seniors, and veterans. The DC Office of Tax and Revenue reassesses property annually, and homeowners can appeal assessments if they believe their property has been overvalued. Buyers should verify the most recent assessment and factor in projected taxes, especially when purchasing newly built or renovated homes where assessed values may adjust sharply post-sale.

Yes, non-residents and international buyers can purchase property in Washington, DC with no citizenship or residency requirement. However, foreign buyers should work with a knowledgeable local agent and attorney to navigate financing restrictions, potential tax implications (such as FIRPTA on resale), and currency transfer logistics. Cash transactions are more common, as not all U.S. lenders offer mortgage products to foreign nationals without established credit or a U.S.-based income.

DC Public Schools (DCPS) use a boundary-based enrollment system, meaning each address is assigned to specific schools. This directly impacts property desirability and price, especially in areas zoned for top-performing schools like Janney Elementary or Wilson High. Buyers with children should confirm school assignments through the DCPS school boundary lookup tool and understand that attending a preferred school outside one’s boundary typically requires a lottery admission. Private and charter schools are also widely available but often competitive and costly.

Yes, sellers in Washington, DC are legally required to provide a Residential Property Disclosure Statement or a disclaimer. Most buyers expect full disclosure, and failure to disclose known defects (e.g., past flooding, structural issues, or environmental hazards) can result in post-sale legal action. Even when providing a disclaimer, ethical and transparent selling practices typically lead to smoother transactions. Sellers should work with their agent to determine which route is most appropriate based on the home’s condition and history.

While not required, many DC sellers—especially in the luxury or historic segments—opt for a pre-inspection. This allows them to uncover and address issues before listing, price more accurately, and negotiate from a position of strength. In fast-moving neighborhoods, a pre-inspection can also streamline the sales process by reducing buyer uncertainty and potentially avoiding price reductions or delays during escrow. It's especially valuable for older DC homes, where aging systems or deferred maintenance may surface during buyer due diligence.

Sellers in Washington, DC typically pay 5–6% in real estate agent commissions, plus closing costs that may include title insurance, recordation tax (1.1% or 1.45% of the sale price, depending on value), settlement fees, and potential transfer taxes. Altogether, total closing costs for sellers often range from 6–8% of the final sale price. It's critical for sellers to review a net sheet with their agent or settlement attorney to understand their expected proceeds after all fees and taxes.