NVAR

The Source

Welcome to The Source!

The Source immerses readers through captivating video content, expert insights, and scenarios. Elevate your industry expertise by checking back each month for engaging multimedia and invaluable professional advice.

The Source is your inside scoop on legal, governmental, and ethical developments in the real estate industry.

New from Legal Services:

Do I Have to Attend Closing in Person?
While in-person closings are traditional, you can also close with a mobile notary, remote online notary, or mail-away signing. The right choice depends on your lender, title company, and more — learn the details in this video!

What is an Earnest Money Deposit?
An earnest money deposit shows the seller you’re serious about buying. If you back out without cause, they keep it — if the sale falls through, you get it back. Watch this video to learn more!

What is the Difference Between Mobile Notary and Remote Online Notary?
Need a document notarized? A mobile notary comes to you in person; a Remote Online Notary lets you sign and notarize completely online. Watch this video to learn the difference!

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What Realtors® Should Know About the Virginia Resale Disclosure Act for HOAs and Condos

Selling in an HOA or condo? Virginia’s Resale Disclosure Act requires a resale certificate — and timing your delivery can make or break a deal. Deliver it on time, because the clock for a Buyer’s review (and right to cancel) doesn’t start until it is in their hands.

Legal Reminder: Updated Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

On July 1, 2025, Virginia updated the Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities (English & Spanish) under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA). Landlords must provide this form to tenants for the lease to be enforceable — always use the latest version from DHCD.

Legal Hotline Question of the Month

Is your client selling a property they inherited — or have never lived in? Virginia’s Residential Property Disclosure Act still applies in most cases, and lack of familiarity with the home is not an exemption. Whether the DPOR disclosure is required depends on your role in the sale — owner versus fiduciary. When in doubt: disclose!

New from Government Affairs:

Support the Advocacy Fund when Renewing Your Membership!

The Northern Virginia Realtors® Political Action Committee (NVRPAC) is your advocacy resource — working behind the scenes to protect your business, your bottom line, consumers, and the future of our industry. Your $15 investment (or more) advances critical issues for clients and supports candidates who understand real estate, defends private property rights, and champions Realtor® priorities at every level of government.

Investing in NVRPAC during your membership renewal is one of the easiest — and most impactful — ways to ensure your advocacy voice is heard where it matters most.

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New from Professional Services:

Ethics Case Study of the Month: The Case of the Flipper

Every month, the NVAR Grievance Committee and the Professional Standards Committee review complaints from members of the public and other Realtors® alleging violations of the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics. The following case represents a sample of a common advertising complaint received recently at NVAR.

Learn More