Real Estate Virginia: Quick Tips for Buyers, Renters & Landlords

If you’re looking at Virginia, you’re dealing with a market that mixes historic charm and modern growth. Whether you want to buy a house, rent an apartment, or manage a rental, you’ll need to know the basics fast. Below you’ll find the most useful pointers to help you move forward without getting tangled in jargon.

Buying a Home in Virginia

First up, buying. Virginia’s home prices vary a lot by region – a foothill home in Shenandoah can be far cheaper than a waterfront condo near Norfolk. In 2025, most midsize cities are seeing price growth of 3‑5% year over year, so it’s a good time to lock in a rate if you can afford it.

Check the 5‑year rule before you list a property. It still matters for capital gains tax: if you’ve owned the home for at least five years and lived there two of those years, you can exclude up to $250,000 of profit ($500,000 for married couples). It’s a simple rule that can save you thousands.

Get pre‑approved for a mortgage early. Lenders in Virginia often ask for proof of steady income and a credit score above 680. A strong pre‑approval shows sellers you’re serious and can speed up negotiations.

Finally, work with a local agent who knows the county’s zoning quirks. Some counties have strict land‑use rules that can affect future expansions or home‑based businesses.

Renting & Lease Rules in Virginia

Renting in Virginia is pretty straightforward, but there are a few must‑knows. A month‑to‑month lease, for example, gives both you and the landlord flexibility. The Virginia guide on month‑to‑month leases says you need a 30‑day written notice to end the agreement, unless the lease says otherwise.

Landlords can’t raise rent arbitrarily. In most Virginia cities, they must give a 60‑day notice before any increase. Some localities, like Arlington, have additional caps, so always double‑check the city’s rules.

Tenant protections are solid. A landlord can’t enter your unit without at least 24‑hour notice unless it’s an emergency. Illegal evictions, such as forcing you out for a “new owner” who never intends to live there, are prohibited under Virginia law.

If you’re a landlord, calculate square footage accurately – it’s the basis for rent, utility splits, and legal disclosures. A simple step‑by‑step guide shows you how to measure rooms, include hallways, and round off to the nearest integer.

For renters, remember the “3‑X rent” rule isn’t a statewide law in Virginia, but many landlords still ask for proof that your monthly income is three times the rent. Bring pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer to satisfy that request.

Whether you’re buying or renting, the key is to stay informed and keep paperwork tidy. A quick check of the latest Virginia landlord‑tenant updates can prevent surprises down the road.

Got more questions? Dive into our detailed posts on month‑to‑month leases, landlord rights, and the 5‑year rule. Virginia real estate doesn’t have to be a maze – with the right info, you’ll move forward confidently.