TOPA in Washington DC - anyone know a good attorney?

Question

Does anyone have experience with TOPA (Tenant Occupancy Purchase Act) in Washington DC? I have a great property under contract but the tenant is talking to other investors about selling his purchase rights.

Anyone know a good attorney that is experienced with TOPA laws?

Rick

Anyone know a good attorney that is experienced with TOPA laws?

Rick

Account Closed · Answer

Rather than pay an attorney I would just try and get the tenant to assign you the TOPA rights for a fee. Could be less than an attorney.

Russell Brazil · Answer

As a buyer do not spend any money on a TOPA issue either through a lawyer or paying the tenants. That responsibility should fall to the seller. There is a good chance you could spend a considerable amount of money and still not acquire the property. Your agent if you have one should have advised you of that. If you don't have one, here is a great example of why you should have one. I've seen people pay tenants to sign away their TOPA rights, not realizing it's not binding then still have the tenants sell their TOPA rights to a third party.

Matt Medvene · Answer

I'd recommend Sullivan & Barros, LLP (Tony Barros) or Sushner Broullire & Shepard, PLLC (Tommy Broullire). I've worked with both and they are both extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and easy to work with.