Virginia Housing – What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re looking at renting or buying in Virginia, you’ve probably heard the market’s changing fast. Between new rental rules, shifting mortgage rates, and state‑specific taxes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you the facts you actually need, so you can make confident decisions without digging through endless legal jargon.

Virginia Rental Laws in 2025

First up, renters. The 2025 update tightens security‑deposit limits and clarifies eviction procedures. Landlords can now ask for a deposit up to one month’s rent, but they must return it within 30 days after you move out, minus any documented damages. If a landlord wants to raise rent, they must give a 60‑day notice—no surprise hikes.

Another big change is the “right to repair” clause. Tenants can request repairs in writing, and landlords have 14 days to fix serious issues like plumbing leaks or heating failures. If they miss the deadline, you can withhold rent for that month or hire a professional and deduct the cost from your rent, as long as the repair is reasonable.

Evictions have become more transparent. For non‑payment, the landlord must first provide a 14‑day “pay‑or‑quit” notice before filing court action. For lease violations, a 30‑day cure period is required. These steps aim to give renters a fair chance to resolve issues before a court date.

Buying a Home in Virginia

Thinking about buying? Virginia’s real‑estate market remains competitive, especially around Northern Virginia and the coastal areas. Median home prices in Fairfax County hover around $550,000, while Richmond offers more affordable options near $300,000. Your budget will dictate where you get the best value, but don’t ignore emerging suburbs—places like Prince William and Stafford are seeing new developments and lower price growth.

Mortgage rates are hovering near 6% for a 30‑year fixed loan. That means a $400,000 mortgage will cost roughly $2,400 a month before taxes and insurance. Use a simple affordability calculator: multiply your gross monthly income by 0.3 to estimate a safe housing payment. If you earn $7,000 a month, aim for a total housing cost around $2,100.

Don’t forget Virginia’s property tax. The state averages about 0.80% of assessed value, but local rates vary. In Arlington, you might pay 1.1%, while in rural counties it can drop below 0.5%. Factoring this into your monthly budget prevents surprises at tax time.

Finally, work with a local realtor who knows the county’s zoning rules. Some areas have strict “single‑family only” policies, while others allow mixed‑use developments. A knowledgeable agent can help you navigate the paperwork, negotiate offers, and find any available incentives—like the Virginia Housing Development Authority’s down‑payment assistance programs.

Whether you’re renting or buying, staying updated on the latest laws and market trends gives you an edge. Keep an eye on the Virginia Department of Housing website for any rule changes, and consider setting up alerts for new listings in your target neighborhoods. With the right info, you’ll be ready to make the most of Virginia’s housing opportunities in 2025.