Real Property Tax
All real property, unless expressly exempted, is subject to the real property tax and is assessed at 100% of market value.
The District of Columbia has four property classes:
- Class 1 – improved residential real property that is occupied and is used exclusively for nontransient residential dwelling purposes
- Class 2 – Commercial property (2 classes)
- Class 3 – Vacant property
- Class 4 - Blighted property
DC Code Citation: Title 47, Chapters 7-10, 13, 13a.
For additional information about the Class 3 and Class 4 tax rates, visit Vacant Real Property.
Real Property Tax Rates
| Class | Tax Rate Per $100 | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.85 | Residential real property, including multifamily |
| 2 | $1.65 | Commercial and industrial real property, including hotels and motels, if assessed value is not greater than $5 million |
| 2 | $1.77 | Commercial and industrial real property, including hotels and motels, if assessed value is greater than $5 million but not greater than $10 million |
| 2 | $1.89 | Commercial and industrial real property, including hotels and motels, if assessed value is greater than $10 million |
| 3 | $5.00 | Vacant real property |
| 4 | $10.00 | Blighted real property |
Deed Recordation Tax
The recording of all deeds to real estate in the District. The basis of the tax is the value of consideration given for the property. Where there is no consideration or where the consideration is nominal, the tax is imposed on the basis of the fair market value of the property.
DC Code Citation: Title 42, Chapter 11.
Current Tax Rate(s)
1.1 % of consideration or fair market value for residential property transfers less than $400,000 and 1.45% of consideration or fair market value on the entire amount, if transfer is greater than $400,000.
Note: For residential properties under $400,000, the rate is 1.1% of consideration or fair market value.
Deed Transfer Tax
Each transfer of real property at the time the deed is submitted for recordation. The tax is based upon the consideration paid for the transfer. Where there is no consideration or where the amount is nominal, the basis of the transfer tax is the fair market value of the property conveyed.
DC Code Citation: Title 47, Chapter 9.
Current Tax Rate(s)
1.1 % of consideration or fair market value for residential property transfers less than $400,000 and 1.45% of consideration or fair market value on the entire amount, if transfer is greater than $400,000.
Note: For residential properties under $400,000, the rate is 1.1% of consideration or fair market value.