From TOPA Trouble to TOPA Triumph
Selling a multiunit property in Washington, D.C., means navigating the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA)—a process that can add $30,000 to $100,000+ in unexpected costs if not handled properly. Legal fees, extended holding costs, and price reductions from prolonged negotiations can eat into your profits. Worse, non-compliance can lead to civil fines of up to $50,000 per violation, lawsuits from tenants, and even forced contract reversals.
What You’ll Learn:
- The True Costs of TOPA
- Common Pitfalls & Legal Risks
- Fines & Legal Consequences
- Tenant lawsuits demanding damages or delaying the sale indefinitely
- Proven Strategies to Save $30K+
- Real Case Studies
May 10, 2025
Keller Williams Capital Properties (Basement), Washington DC
Abel Gebremichael
Expert Perspectives for DC Multifamily Owners
Compliance experts, attorneys, tax specialists, housing code inspectors, and other professionals helping DC multifamily owners navigate complex decisions with confidence.
Principal Advisor at UMA
One of DC’s leading advisors focused exclusively on 4–20 unit multifamily properties. Experience includes 133+ DC multifamily buildings sold, 390+ TOPA notices navigated, and extensive advisory experience across acquisitions, dispositions, compliance challenges, and investment decisions. Through Urban Multifamily Advisory, Abel provides education, market intelligence, and strategic guidance for owners operating within Washington, DC’s uniquely regulated multifamily market.
“The presenter shared knowledge and experience on litigation and the L/T landscape, moving forward, with the compliance paperwork and the amended Rental Act. The session was informative and a networking opportunity.”
“Excellent and timely information in an uncertain world and an ever-challenging local real estate market! Listening to Abel’s extensive experience and knowledge presented in his calm and generous manner, offers a bit of assurance while understanding just a few of the challenges in uncertain times.”
"Abel impressed me with his professionalism and knowledge of the DC multi-unit property market from the first time we spoke. His proven track record helped me decide to go with him."
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TOPA & DOPA Sale Readiness Snapshot
Thinking about selling with tenants in place? Understand how TOPA, DOPA, and compliance requirements may affect your timeline, leverage, and net proceeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about event registration, attendance, educational resources, and follow-up consultations.
Owners of 2-20 unit multifamily properties throughout Washington, DC who want to better understand compliance requirements, protect value, and make more informed ownership decisions.
No. Many attendees participate to better understand compliance requirements, property operations, valuation considerations, and long-term ownership strategies.
Some events may be complimentary while others may require advance registration. Event details are provided on each registration page.
Yes. Attendees may request a consultation to discuss their property, compliance concerns, valuation questions, or future plans.
When available, attendees may receive access to presentation materials, resources, and related educational content following the event in our private Facebook group.
Request a Customized Building Valuation
Whether you’re refinancing, selling, applying for a loan, or planning an exit, know exactly where your building’s value stands in today’s market.
Get a Compliance Position Review
Before filing an eviction, submitting a hardship petition, raising rents, or preparing for a sale, understand your building’s regulatory exposure and required steps.