DC Stops Small Lien Tax Sales
You Need to Know
Mayor Gray issued an emergency moratorium and the Council passed legislation on tax sales of residential properties after
The Washington Post' s expose revealed predatory debt collection practices that resulted in
foreclosure on a $134 tax lien.
Details
The new legislation, "District Tax Sale Emergency Act," should be effective in October and:
- Freezes any tax sale for a DC resident who is a senior citizen, veteran, or disabled;
- Directs tax sale profits be given to the owner of record prior to tax sale;
- Caps attorney fees at $1,500; and
- Establishes a $2,000 threshold of taxes owed for a property to go to tax sale.
Working for You
DCAR has committed to testifying on this issue at the next public hearing, also likely to occur next month.
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New MD Law Makes Refinancing Easier 
You Need to KnowA new Maryland law authorizes homeowners to refinance a first mortgage without obtaining permission from the lender that funded a home equity loan or second mortgage.
Details
The law goes into effect October 1 and applies to current mortgages as long as the refinancing occurs after the effective date. View the entire text here.
Working for You
GCAAR worked on MAR's Legislative Committee to support the bill. We will continue to review state legislation when the General Assembly reconvenes January 8, 2014.
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Progress in Purple Line Project You Need to Know
The Purple Line, a proposed 16-mile light rail line from Bethesda to New Carrollton, is again up for public comment. Comments on The Final Environmental Impact Statement for the project are due October 21, and can be posted to the Maryland Department of Transportation's NEW webpage dedicated to the Purple Line here.
Details
With 21 stations proposed, the Purple line will provide direct connections to Metrorail, local and inter-city bus, the MARC train, and Amtrak.
Working for You
Innovative transportation solutions are a top priority for GCAAR. We are keeping a close watch on all major transportation projects affecting Montgomery County and DC.
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