Fall
2026 Newsletter
For those exploring property management for the first time.
Helping property owners navigate the rental market with confidence
The rental market continues to change, and owning a rental property means keeping an eye on more than just rent. Pricing, regulations, maintenance, and long-term property care all play a role.
This fall, we’re sharing a few updates that may help as you plan for the months ahead.
Is Your Rent Still Positioned Correctly?
If you’ve been trying to sell or rent a property recently, you’ve probably noticed that the market has softened.
According to Realtor.com, Seattle-area rental prices are down a little over 1% compared with the same time last year, reflecting a broader national trend of slightly lower rents year over year.
If your rental property has been sitting on the market, it may be worth taking another look at the asking price and how it compares with current market conditions.
The good news for owners: while buying a home may be less competitive than in recent years, renting remains a more affordable option for many Seattle-area residents.
Washington’s 2027 Rent Increase Cap
While rents may be softening in the short term, Washington’s rent stabilization laws are an important consideration for property owners.
The Washington State Department of Commerce has announced that the maximum allowable rent increase for most qualifying rental properties will be 10% for calendar year 2027, with some exceptions.
Under Washington’s rent stabilization law, annual increases are limited to 7% plus the Seattle-area Consumer Price Index (CPI), or 10%, whichever is less. Commerce recalculates the maximum each year using the June CPI for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area.
For 2027, inflation pushed the calculation above the 10% ceiling, resulting in the 10% maximum.
One important detail: the cap applies based on
when the increase takes effect, not when the notice is served. For example, a 180-day notice served in fall 2026 for an increase taking effect in spring 2027 would be subject to the 2027 cap.
Seattle’s New Rental Fee Rules
Seattle recently passed new regulations restricting certain rental fees and requiring more upfront pricing for renters. These rules apply to rental properties within the City of Seattle and take effect July 1, 2027.
Fees that will be prohibited include:
- Administrative fees
- Pet rent
- Package and mail fees
- Roommate change fees
- Repair request fees
Some charges will remain permitted, including security deposits, screening fees, pet damage deposits, late fees, parking, utilities, and documented tenant-caused damage.
What owners should know: Rental listings, advertisements, and applications will need to clearly disclose rent and applicable fees, along with estimated total monthly costs where required.
Effective July 1, 2027. Violations may result in recovery of
three times the amount of illegal fees.
Fall Maintenance: A Few Things to Check Now
Fall is a good time to get ahead of the rainy season and make sure your property is ready for the months ahead.
A few areas worth keeping an eye on:
- Roof, gutters and downspouts: Clear debris and make sure water can drain properly.
- Trees and exterior drainage: Look for dead branches and make sure water is draining away from the property.
- Heating systems: Annual service can help catch problems before they become an emergency.
- Doors and windows: Check weather-stripping for drafts and signs of wear.
- Fireplaces and chimneys: If your property has one, fall is a good time to have it cleaned and inspected before winter.
A little attention now can help prevent bigger problems later. Want to learn more? Read our latest blog on why preventive maintenance matters.
Maple Leaf Named a Gold Award Winner
We’re proud to share that Maple Leaf was named a Gold Award winner in Best in the Pacific Northwest!
Recognition like this reflects the relationships we’ve built with the owners, residents, vendors, and real estate professionals who are part of our community.
For us, it’s a meaningful reminder of the trust that comes with managing someone’s home and investment.
We’re grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey.
Supporting Home Together
This fall, we’re coming together for Oktoberfest to support Home Together.
Home Together provides affordable, furnished homes for families relocating to Seattle while their children receive care at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Today, Home Together has 15 homes and has supported more than 70 families.
There are many ways to get involved:
- Sponsor Home Together
- Join us for Oktoberfest
- Support through volunteering, donations, or other contributions
Interested in getting involved? Reach out to contactus@home-together.org
Thinking About Professional Property Management?
Whether you’re considering renting out a property for the first time or looking for a different approach to managing an existing rental, we’d be happy to talk.
Reach out to our Business Director, Cheryl Bortz
