The federal government has initiated immigration enforcement activities, including at rental housing communities. Property owners are not obligated to grant ICE entry without a criminal warrant, and tenants have privacy rights regardless of immigration status. Consult legal counsel to ensure compliance and protect both residents and property operations.

The Norfolk City Council has voted to ban short-term vacation rentals in the West Freemason Historic and Cultural Conservation districts, reversing a 2020 amendment that allowed rentals with a Conditional Use Permit. The change comes after the West Freemason Civic League requested the ban, citing the need to promote homeownership and address parking issues. Existing short-term rentals with permits will be allowed to operate until their permits expire in 2028, but renewals will not be granted.
Source: 13 News Now

Rent reporting programs can help tenants build credit through on-time rent payments, often boosting scores by an average of 60 points. However, late payments or debt collection efforts can significantly damage credit, reducing scores by over 100 points in some cases. Not all rent reporting services are free or report to all three major credit bureaus, so property managers should carefully evaluate program options and communicate potential risks to residents. Additionally, inaccurate reporting can lead to tenant disputes, making it essential to document agreements and payment histories thoroughly.

A recent report from the National Apartment Association reveals that affordable housing property managers face heavier workloads and higher mental health impacts compared to their counterparts in conventional multifamily housing. Training gaps remain significant, with both sectors citing a lack of AI and wellness training. Technology adoption differs as well—affordable housing managers focus on resident portals and mobile apps, while conventional multifamily managers prioritize social media and online leasing. Additionally, affordable housing managers are more likely to consider switching property management software in the near future.
Source: National Apartment Association

West End Capital Group has acquired Barracks West Townhomes & Apartments, a 324-unit community near Charlottesville, for $56.75 million. The complex features one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, with planned improvements to amenities and living spaces. Located just a mile from UVA and three miles from downtown, the property is positioned for long-term value growth.

Two developers are seeking approval to transform over 400 acres near Eastern State Hospital into mixed-use communities, including more than 1,100 homes and 140,000 square feet of commercial space. Westwood Park would feature 186 residential units and 40,000 square feet of retail and office space, while Cardinal Ridge plans for 979 homes and 100,000 square feet of commercial space, including a grocery-anchored section. Both developments will include affordable housing, with Westwood Park offering 38 affordable units and Cardinal Ridge providing 120 affordable apartments.

Richmond City Council has approved a 352-unit income-based apartment complex on Rady Street, targeting households earning 60% of the area median income. Developed by Elmington, the complex will feature four buildings with amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse, and bicycle storage. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and finish in 2027.
Source: The Richmonder

Middleburg Communities has submitted plans to develop a 6-acre parking lot at 4400 W. Broad St. into a nearly 300-unit apartment complex. The project will feature two four-story buildings with a total of 296 units, including amenities like a pool, courtyard, and 9,300 square feet of amenity space. The development will also offer 358 surface parking spaces.

Aviva Pembroke, a brand-new senior living center in Virginia Beach, has officially opened its doors in  Pembroke Square. The development, part of the transformation of the former Pembroke Mall, aims to revitalize the area with a mix of residential, entertainment, and dining options. With around 40-50 residents already moved in, the project marks the beginning of a broader redevelopment that will include a new Hilton hotel set to open by 2027.
Source: 13 News Now

Williamsburg City Council approved a permit for 11 apartments at 1006 Richmond Road, transforming a former bank building into a mixed-use development. The apartments will be located on the second and third floors, while the first floor will feature restaurants and outdoor patios. The units will consist of studio and one-bedroom layouts, with a maximum of two occupants per apartment.