2025 election season is over, and the results are in. The question is – what does this mean for the rental housing industry? First, the results:
For statewide elections, as of Wednesday, November 5th at 11:00 AM:
Governor
Spanberger (D) 57.14%
Earle-Sears (R) 42.66%
Lt. Governor
Hashmi (D) 55.23%
Reid (R) 44.52%
Attorney General
Jones (D) 52.73%
Miyares (R) 46.87%
The VA House of Delegates was also up for election, but the VA Senate was not. In Virginia, Delegates serve two-year terms while Senators serve four-year terms. Two years from now, the entire Assembly will be up for election.
Going into this election, Democrats held a 51-to-49 advantage over Republicans in the House. Tuesday night, Democrats picked up 13 seats, moving their advantage to 64-36. So, what does this mean for the rental housing industry?
This means there is a very high likelihood the rental housing industry will see legislation that creates major operational changes for housing providers. At the top of the list is the notice period prior to filing an unlawful detainer. Currently this is set at 5 days, however expanding this notice to 14 days was one of the top housing policy priorities on Spanberger’s housing policy list. With a 54-36 advantage in the House, some version of that policy is likely to become enshrined into VA Code. That’s not to say the path for such legislation cannot be altered, but altering that path requires the involvement from members such as yourself.
If you have never thought of yourself as a political powerhouse, you are selling yourself short. The reality is, the vast majority of VA General Assembly Delegates don’t understand housing economics or the daily challenges you encounter in providing housing. That means you are uniquely positioned to educate legislators on housing and potentially change their preconceived notions and the policy positions for which they advocate. Real conversations work. The power is in your hands, but it starts with your willingness to talk.
If you are wondering where to start, look no further than your Government Affairs team at VAMA. We know you have stories and experiences to share with legislators, and we will help make those conversations possible. We understand that if you have never spoken with a legislator before, it can feel intimidating. Doing something for the first time is always a little scary, but we feel confident we can help you become the political powerhouse we know you are. Simply reach out to patrick@vamaonline.org or erika@vamaonline.org. Let us know what rental housing issues you are passionate about, and we will guide you through making that conversation happen with your General Assembly member.