Real Property Publications

Real Estate Settlement Agents

April 2026

The Virginia State Bar Real Property Section provided an update effective April 2026. View the Real Estate Settlement Agents April 2026 update.


Common Types of Fraud in Real Estate Transactions

May 2025

Fraud in real estate and title insurance is a growing concern, impacting both professionals and the public. As technology evolves, so do the tactics employed by fraudsters. This article aims to shed light on the most common types of fraud occurring today and provide guidance on how to protect against these threats.


The Most Common Tenancy Options in Virginia

May 2025

The way to own real estate is called “tenancy,” and this publication highlights the most common tenancies in Virginia. What is selected depends on how many people are buying the property.


Before You Buy: HOA Legal Issues

Updated May 2017

This information from the Real Property Section Common Interest Community Committee is offered as a public service to answer certain basic questions about resale disclosure in Virginia common interest community associations and provide general guidance about important portions of a resale disclosure document that should be given careful attention.


Powers of Attorney in Virginia: A Brief Overview

May 2025

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes a person or persons (the agent or attorney-in-fact) to act on behalf of another person or entity (the principal).


A Title Insurance Guide For The Homebuyer

Updated February 2024

An owner’s title insurance policy could save you money and time if a title defect is discovered after you purchase your home. Read more about this type of policy in A Title Insurance Guide for the Homebuyer.


The Basics of Virginia Transfer on Death Deeds

May 2025

Most people who have a retirement account and/or a bank account are aware of the forms they completed that direct who gets the money on their death. Completing the form is a simple process and allows the assets to be paid directly to the designated person without involving the probate court, saving time and money. A transfer-on-death deed (TOD deed) serves that function for real estate.


What Happens to My Real Property When I Die?

May 2025

Upon death while owning real property in Virginia, the real property passes according to the laws of Virginia. Real property in Virginia is said to “drop like a stone”—title is immediately vested at time of death in the heirs at law or devisees. But those heirs or devisees need to establish their ownership of record in the land records of the circuit court in which the real property lies.