Expert: Russel Ray - 1/13/2010

Question
We live in Washington, DC.  I have been married to my husband for ten years and have known and lived with him for twelve.  My husband has rented your home (semi detached) for over 40 years as he raised a family with his first wife before she passed away.  Another semi-detached unit is next door.  One of the units is sold and the other is rented.  I rented that house before I married my husband.  Now my children still rent the unit and since 1995 when I first moved in my children there has not been a new lease signed. When my husband  first began to rent his house he was given the option of renting with option of buying.  After a few years the landlords told him that they were not going to sell and that he could get his money out of escrow.  The builders/owners of the home has several home built at the same time in the area.  The leasing agency has not maintained the property. When there is a need for repairs etc. They always have stated that they need the approved of the owners.  When the owners wife passed November a year ago, the siblings came to inspect the homes and we were told that it would be atleast two more years before they would consider selling because I expressed interest at that time verbally, and there response was verbal.  During the summer months the leasing agency had eight contracts come to both homes to inspected and determine what was needed and the cost of repairs to pass DC  housing inspection.  In early November of this year we were asked if we were interested in buying, I stated yes.  I do not want to uproot my husband and my grandchildren.  The last week of November the Leasing agency asked again if we were interest.  I again stated yes.  December 14 there was a for sale sign placed in the front yard of each house.   We have talked about the price. I have asked for sells contract and I was told I would get one and it has been a month since I was told. That .  The sign in front of my home really disturbs me.  I am willing to purchase this house ’as is because I know that it will cost most more than the owners are willing to pay to get it ready for market value.  I need help and advise.  About the Sign, I was told that it violates a Law (Tofa Law) I’m not sure if that is the correct spelling) Please help.  

Answer
Hey, Marvaline.

You do have certain rights as a tenant there in D.C., including the right of first refusal as I understand it, so the for sale sign might, indeed, violate some laws.

Contact Patricia Kennedy, a Realtor in D.C. She is excellent. I talked to her about your situation and she'd be a great person to get to help you. Call her at (202) 549-5167.

Good luck.

Russel