The Washington DC Condominium Guide
What you need to know before you buy: A Five-Part Series For Buyers
🧰 This is Part I of my five-part series on Washington DC condos. Part I walks you through the basics on condo structure, ownership and attributes, helping you decide if condominium ownership is an option you’d like to pursue further.
This article was originally published as part of my 🛠️Tools series at realestateinthedistrict.com. It’s been updated and expanded here on my Substack, DC Real Estate Channel.
You can find links for the full series archive at the bottom of each post.
Part I: The Basics
What Is a DC Condominium?
Is it the right choice for you? Let’s find out.
A Washington DC condominium isn’t a certain type of building or architecture. It can take many different shapes and forms. In basic terms, it’s ownership of an individual share in an owner’s association. The definition of a condo “unit” is defined in the governing documents. It can be anything from a commercial or industrial building to a boat dock.
Tell Me About DC Condominium Ownership In 20 Seconds
Here are the basics on residential condo ownership in the District:
A standard mortgage loan can be used to purchase a condominium;
Purchasers of a condominium unit will receive a deed to the unit, and a percentage interest in the common elements;
Association dues are based on unit size as well as any additional components, including limited common elements controlled by the unit owner (like parking and storage spaces);
Unit owners must comply with rules and restrictions outlined in the association bylaws;
Unit owners are eligible to run for a seat on the condo board;
Depending on the rules, unit owners may have the ability to lease their units;
Unit owners may sell a condominium unit at will.
Most important factors? Think about reselling before you buy and ask:
Is the condominium in a location that appeals to the typical DC condo buyer demographic? Consider Metro access, security, convenience to shopping, retail and dining amenities, unit size, floor level, elevator access, storage and parking, in-unit washer/dryer and private outdoor space;
Is the association well run? Is the building clean, secure and well-maintained? Is the budget healthy? What’s the capital contribution?
Is the building non-smoking? What is the pet policy?
Are there rental restrictions? If so, what’s the investor ratio and cap, waiting list length, re-rent delay, minimum lease term, etc.?
Are association dues higher than the average for buildings in the immediate area?
Is there a large commercial/retail component that would make financing difficult?
Does the unit sit over a parking garage door, trash collection area or alleyway? Is it too close to the elevator or trash room?
Zuzu Notes:
Nearly all condominiums in DC prohibit short term rentals (STR) like Airbnb.
Most condominiums require a minimum six month lease for renters.
Why Buy A DC Condominium?
The decision between purchasing a DC condominium and a townhome or single-family home largely depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and specific needs. Here are some reasons why a buyer might prefer a condominium:
Lower Price
Condos are typically less expensive than other home types in Washington DC. First-time buyers, move-down buyers and buyers of pied-à-terres often choose condominium ownership for this reason.Lower Maintenance Responsibility
Condominiums involve less hands-on maintenance for individual unit owners. Exterior building and common area maintenance, landscaping, and general upkeep are usually managed by the condo association, allowing residents more time and less responsibility for property care. This appeals to those who travel, utilize the property as an occasional residence, or dedicate an extensive portion of their time to work or other pursuits.Amenities And Services
Condominiums often offer shared amenities such as fitness centers, package rooms, lounges, roofdecks and swimming pools, as well as concierge, maintenance and management services. They provide added convenience and lifestyle benefits that may be cost-prohibitive or impractical for individuals.Location
Condos are often situated in desirable DC locations with easy access to public transportation, restaurants, cultural attractions, and other city amenities clustered in areas zoned primarily for multifamily, commercial and retail density.Security
Many condominiums have security features such as controlled access, doormen, surveillance systems and package delivery services and facilities. This can provide a sense of security, especially for those who travel frequently or reside part-time in the District, that may be more challenging to achieve for an individual residence.
Affordability and Lower Upfront Costs
Condominiums can be more affordable than single-family homes in Washington DC. Lower costs associated with condo living such as shared maintenance and structural repair expenses make homeownership more accessible.
Community Living
Condo living often fosters a sense of community. Residents share common spaces and may participate in condo association activities or meetings, providing opportunities for social interaction and community engagement.
Downsizing And Single Floor Living
Condos can be an attractive option for buyers looking to downsize or simplify their lifestyle. The smaller footprint and one floor options associated with condos mean increased mobility and less upkeep, making it a suitable choice for those seeking an easily accessible and manageable home. One floor living is a primary benefit for many move-down buyers in the District, where multistory single family homes with stairways are the norm.
While condominium ownership and the condo lifestyle have advantages, it's essential for buyers to carefully consider their lifestyle needs, resources, preferences, investment strategy, long-term goals, and compare them to the specific characteristics of individual properties
Part II Preview:
In the next part of this series we’ll break down the monthly fees for District of Columbia condominium ownership.
📬 Want personal guidance or have questions about multifamily home types in the District? Reply here or schedule a consult. I’ll help you decode it all!
🧠 Series Archive
The Washington DC Condominium Guide
An in-depth series for Washington DC buyers navigating condo purchases.
📚 Parts 1 - 5
👉 Part 1: Condo Basics
What is a condominium? How does condo ownership work? Why buy a DC condo?
👉 Part 2: What Does The Monthly Fee Cover?
Does the monthly association fee seem high? What does it cover, exactly? Are there ‘hidden’ fees? What’s a Capital Contribution? Breaking down the monthly cost of condominium ownership.
👉 Part 3: Financing a DC Condo
Learn about condo financing options, what conditions make financing difficult or impossible and Zuzu’s little contract clause that protects buyers’ earnest money deposits if a building is unwarrantable.
👉 Part 4: Condo Resale Certificate Packages (‘Condo Docs’)
What are ‘condo docs’? Learn what should be included, what to review and the importance of buyer due diligence. DC’s right-of-rescission explained, the DC Condo Act outlined + legislative updates and links.
👉 Part 5: Condo Q&A
Answers to common questions about purchasing a Washington DC condominium.
🧰 This post is part of a multi-part series originally published as a long-form article in the Tools section of my website, realestateinthedistrict.com.
Each post is being updated for this Substack channel, and optimized for clarity and readability.
The original long-form Tools pages will remain on my website for reference purposes until July 23, 2025.
Disclaimer:
We are not attorneys, legal experts or CPAs. The information presented on this channel is derived from reliable sources, but should not be considered legal, financial or investment advice. Susan Isaacs and Compass, their principals and/or representatives, do not guarantee or warrant its accuracy, completeness, or applicability to any specific transaction. Homebuyers should read applicable D.C. law and code themselves as part of their due diligence, and seek help from licensed, qualified professionals for interpretation and application to their specific transaction.