In 2014, Seattle’s Rental Registration and Inspection Ordinance (RRIO) was implemented, requiring landlords and property managers to register all rental housing units in Seattle with the City of Seattle.
Real Estate
Interpleader Process to be Simplified
On Wednesday, April 22, Governor Inslee signed a bill into law that simplifies and shortens this process. The bill, known as SHB 1730, was promoted by the Washington Realtors® and others in the industry. It establishes an abbreviated timeline for interpleaders involving residential property
Marketing Materials May Create Binding Covenants
A new Washington Supreme Court case may have implications for brokers who market properties containing community amenities such as golf courses, clubhouses, swimming pools, and the like.
Attention Landlords – A New Seattle Ordinance May Apply to Your Rental Property
If you own a residential rental property in Seattle, then you’ll want to pay attention to the new Rental Registration and Inspection Ordinance (RRIO).
Five Tips for Negotiating a Favorable Commercial Lease
The first copy of your lease will likely be completely skewed in favor of the landlord, but don’t be discouraged. Many clauses in a lease can be negotiated so that they are fair to both you and the landlord. Here are some tips for negotiating a favorable lease:

How Celebrities Keep Their Addresses Private
A couple of weeks ago, Richard Sherman of the Seattle Seahawks made the news not for what he did on the field, but what he purchased off as the Seattle Times reported on his recent home purchase. But what if you don’t want nosy folks to know what property you just purchased and how much you paid for it? Fortunately, there is a relatively easy solution.
Legislature Update: Land Use
The 2013 Washington State Legislature wrestled with an 800 pound gorilla – education funding – and adjourned without reaching consensus on that issue. But in the process, several new laws passed that are relevant to those who are in land use or real estate.

New Case Signals Return to "Buyer Beware"
A recent case from the Washington State Court of Appeals signals a strong return to the legal principle of caveat emptor – otherwise known as “buyer beware”. It’s important that real estate brokers understand the magnitude of the decision, whether they represent sellers or buyers.
Legislature Considering "Impact Fee Deferral Covenants"
People dealing with development “impact fees” should keep track of House Bill 1652, which was introduced into the Legislature on February 4. The bill would significantly alter how development impact fees are collected by local governments
New Carbon Monoxide Requirements Start on January 1, 2013
New Washington State building codes make carbon monoxide detectors a requirement for all rental property on January 1, 2013