Real Estate
How to deal with rodents in D.C.
Key takeaways for owners and tenants
Rodents such as mice can stealthily invade your home, causing damage and carrying diseases. And let’s be frank, it can just feel truly creepy knowing four-footed creatures are rummaging in your pantry and walls. To effectively deal with them, you need to adopt a detective mindset, understanding where they hide, what they eat (and drink!), and how to eliminate them. Here are some key takeaways for both homeowners and tenants when addressing rodent issues.
You might not even realize you have mice. Mice are secretive, and they can inhabit your home for months without detection. They move along walls to avoid being seen and can cover several feet per second. However, there is no need to react like the stereotypical frightened person standing on a stool and waiting for someone else to help. Step down and take action. If they can be active, so can you. First, equip yourself with some simple knowledge that will save you days and weeks of frustration. Below, you’ll find a straightforward guide to follow, making it easy for you to take action today on what you might prefer to postpone until tomorrow.
Know your rodent
D.C. residents should be aware that while both mice and rats can cause property damage and carry diseases, rats are more destructive and aggressive than mice. Proper identification is crucial for effective pest control measures and for accurately communicating the type of problem you are facing. You can observe physical characteristics and rodent behavior to distinguish between the two species, or you can seek assistance from professional pest control services for proper identification.
In the District of Columbia, both mice and rats can be common pests found in homes and neighborhoods. House mice (Mus musculus) and Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) are the most prevalent species encountered. House mice are typically smaller, ranging from 5 to 8 inches in length, with pointed snouts and long, hairless tails. They are generally light brown or gray in color. Norway rats, on the other hand, are larger, often measuring between 7 to 9 inches in length, with blunt snouts and shorter, scaly tails. They typically have brown or grayish-brown fur.
Do you have a mouse infestation?
• Scratching or rustling sounds in walls or ceilings, especially at night.
• Mouse droppings in corners and under appliances. These resemble dark grains of rice and are telltale signs of mouse activity.
• Food packaging that has been chewed through.
• Unusual ammonia-like odors.
• If pets are focused on a specific area, there may be a mouse nearby.
How to keep mice out
• Install a door sweep or weatherstrip exterior doors if you can see daylight underneath.
• Seal any openings in your home, especially near ground level, using materials like stainless steel, copper mesh, or caulk.
• Keep your home clean and free of crumbs.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Store pet food in sealed containers and never leave it out between feedings.
Setting and baiting mouse traps
• Determine trap placement by following mouse droppings and greasy trails on walls.
• Place traps near activity areas, not just on the floor.
• Use the same food that attracted the mouse as bait.
• Avoid over-baiting, as it can hinder trap effectiveness.
When to call a professional
If your traps don’t yield results after a week or more, consider professional help. Significant amounts of droppings may indicate a severe infestation requiring expert assistance.
Dealing with mice in your D.C. home requires vigilance and a proactive approach. Remember, it’s not you! You didn’t attract the mice, and neither did your landlord. Mice are quite simply sneaky, inventive creatures who are attracted to what we humans leave out for them or make available to them.
In the District of Columbia, grappling with a pervasive rat infestation has become an unfortunate reality for many of us residents. However, despite the severity of the situation, it’s important to recognize that this issue isn’t solely the fault of property owners; rather, it is fundamentally linked to how we collectively manage our food waste and control rodents’ access to water sources. As such, D.C. residents play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these unwelcome visitors around their homes.
One of the primary strategies residents like you can employ is to adopt and talk with your neighbors about ensuring rigorous sanitation practices near your home. Those practices include:
• Properly storing and disposing of food waste in secure containers that rats cannot easily access.
• Ensuring that garbage bins have tightly sealed lids.
• Emptying out any containers that collect water after rain and snow.
Beyond food waste management, residents should also focus on minimizing access points that rats could exploit to enter their homes. Conducting a thorough inspection of the property exterior to identify and seal off any gaps or cracks in walls, doors, windows, and foundations helps to prevent rats from finding their way indoors. Installing door sweeps and mesh screens on vents and openings can further fortify the defenses against rodent intrusion.
In addition to proactive measures within individual households, community-wide efforts are also essential for addressing the rat infestation comprehensively in the District. Engaging with local authorities and advocacy groups to advocate for improved waste management infrastructure and rat control measures can also contribute to long-term solutions for the entire community.
Ultimately, education plays a pivotal role in empowering residents to take meaningful action against these pests. Utilizing the District’s resources can empower residents to effectively address the issue in their homes and neighborhoods.
Several citywide services are available to assist residents with rat abatement and control efforts. These services are primarily provided by the District of Columbia Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), with additional support from various local government agencies and community organizations. Here are some of the key services available:
Rodent Control Program: The District of Columbia Department of Health operates a comprehensive Rodent Control Program aimed at reducing rat populations and minimizing their impact on public health and safety. This program includes proactive inspections, rodent abatement efforts, enforcement of rodent control regulations, and public education initiatives. Residents can call (202) 535-1954 for information, outreach, educational materials, and enforcement.
Rodent Complaints: The DOH encourages any resident to report rat sightings, infestations, or other rodent-related concerns by dialing 311. Upon receiving a complaint, the DOH may conduct inspections, provide guidance on rodent control measures, and coordinate with other agencies to address the issue effectively.
Rodent Prevention and Control Resources: The DOH and DOEE offer various resources and guidance materials to help residents prevent and control rat infestations. These resources may include educational materials, fact sheets, and tips on sanitation practices, rodent-proofing techniques, and effective pest control methods.
While the neighborhood-by-neighborhood rat infestation in the District of Columbia poses significant challenges, proactive measures at the individual, community, and systemic levels can help mitigate its impact. By adopting better sanitation practices, fortifying property defenses, fostering community collaboration, and promoting education and advocacy, D.C. residents like you can play a vital role in reducing the prevalence of Norwegian rats.
Scott Bloom is owner and Senior Property Manager at Columbia Property Management. For more information and resources, visit ColumbiaPM.com.
Real Estate
Celebrate the power of homeownership this Fourth of July
Owning a home is powerful act of self-determination
This Fourth of July, celebrate more than independence: celebrate the power of LGBTQ+ homeownership. Explore resources, rights, and representation with GayRealEstate.com, the trusted leader in LGBTQ+ real estate for over 30 years.
Home is more than a house: it’s a symbol of freedom
As the fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, LGBTQ+ individuals and families across the country are not just celebrating the nation’s independence — they’re celebrating personal milestones of freedom, visibility, and the right to call a place their own.
For many in the LGBTQ+ community, owning a home represents more than stability — it’s a powerful act of self-determination. After generations of discrimination and exclusion from housing opportunities, more LGBTQ+ people are stepping into homeownership with pride and purpose.
Why homeownership matters to the LGBTQ+ community
While progress has been made, LGBTQ+ homebuyers still face unique challenges, including:
- Housing discrimination, even in states with legal protections
- Limited access to LGBTQ+ friendly realtors and resources
- Concerns about safety and acceptance in new neighborhoods
- Lack of representation in the real estate industry
That’s why the Fourth of July is a perfect time to reflect not just on freedom as a concept, but on how that freedom is expressed in the real world — through ownership, safety, and pride in where and how we live.
Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighborhoods
One of the top concerns for LGBTQ+ buyers is whether they’ll feel safe, accepted, and welcome in their new neighborhood. Thanks to evolving attitudes and stronger community support, many cities across the U.S. now offer inclusive, affirming environments.
Some of the best cities for LGBTQ+ home buyers include:
- Wilton Manors, Fla. – A vibrant LGBTQ+ hub with strong community ties
- Palm Springs, Calif. – A longtime favorite for LGBTQ+ homeowners
- Asheville, N.C. – Progressive and artsy, with growing LGBTQ+ visibility
- Portland, Ore. – Inclusive, eco-conscious, and diverse
- Philadelphia, PA – Rich in history and LGBTQ+ community leadership
When you work with an LGBTQ+ friendly realtor, you get insight into more than property values — you get a real perspective on where you’ll feel most at home.
Navigating the real estate process with confidence
Whether you’re a first-time gay homebuyer or preparing to sell your home as an LGBTQ+ couple, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. Here are a few key tips:
1. Work with a trusted LGBTQ+ real estate agent
Representation matters. A gay realtor, lesbian real estate agent, or LGBTQ+ friendly agent understands the unique concerns you may face and advocates for you every step of the way.
Use GayRealEstate.com to connect with LGBTQ+ real estate agents near you. For over 30 years, we’ve helped LGBTQ+ buyers and sellers find their ideal home and a professional who respects their identity.
2. Know your legal protections
While federal law (via the Fair Housing Act and Supreme Court rulings) prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, enforcement can vary by state. Make sure to research:
- State-level housing discrimination laws
- Local LGBTQ+ protections and resources
- What to do if you experience discrimination during a transaction
3. Secure inclusive financing
While most lenders follow fair lending rules, it’s smart to seek out banks or credit unions with LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and a history of non-discriminatory lending practices.
4. Plan for the future as a family
For same-sex couples, especially unmarried partners, it’s vital to review how you’ll hold the title, designate beneficiaries, and plan your estate.
Ask your agent or attorney about:
- Joint tenancy with right of survivorship
- Living trusts
- Powers of attorney and healthcare proxies
Selling a home as an LGBTQ+ homeowner
If you’re listing your home, working with a gay-friendly real estate agent ensures your identity and story are honored — not hidden — in the process.
Highlight:
- Your community connections
- Your home’s role in creating a safe space
- Local LGBTQ+ resources to attract like-minded buyers
Showcasing the full value of your home includes sharing what it meant to live there authentically and safely.
Your home, your freedom
The Fourth of July reminds us that freedom isn’t just an abstract idea — it’s lived every day in the spaces where we find comfort, love, and belonging. For the LGBTQ+ community, the right to own and thrive in a home is part of the larger journey toward full equality.
At GayRealEstate.com, we believe every LGBTQ+ person deserves:
- A safe place to live
- A community that welcomes them
- An advocate in the home buying or selling process
Ready to make a move?
Whether you’re dreaming of your first home, upgrading with your partner, or selling a space that helped shape your identity, GayRealEstate.com is your trusted partner. With our nationwide network of gay realtors, lesbian real estate agents, and LGBTQ+ friendly professionals, we make your journey smooth, respectful, and informed.
Visit GayRealEstate.com to:
- Search LGBTQ+ friendly homes
- Connect with inclusive real estate agents
- Access free guides for buyers and sellers
- Protect your rights and get expert advice
This Fourth of July, celebrate more than independence — celebrate your freedom to live, love, and own with pride.
Did you melt like the Wicked Witch of the West this week?
As summer temperatures rise, keeping your home or apartment cool during a heat wave can become both a comfort issue and a financial challenge. One of the most effective ways to keep a home cool is to prevent heat from entering in the first place. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly raise indoor temperatures. Consider the following solutions:
• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Blackout curtains or thermal drapes can reduce heat gain by up to 30%.
• Install reflective window films to block UV rays and reduce solar heat without sacrificing natural light.
• Use outdoor shading solutions such as awnings (yes, the ones you removed because they were “dated”) and shutters to limit direct sunlight.
Fans are a cost-effective way to circulate air and create a wind-chill effect that makes rooms feel cooler.
• Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down.
• Box fans or oscillating fans can be placed near windows to pull in cooler evening air or push hot air out.
• Create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home and positioning fans to direct airflow through the space.
• For an extra cooling effect, place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan to circulate chilled air.
To optimize natural ventilation, open windows early in the morning or late in the evening when outdoor temperatures drop. This allows cooler air to flow in and helps ventilate heat that built up during the day.
Appliances and electronics generate a surprising amount of heat. To reduce indoor temperatures:
• Avoid using the oven or stove during the day; opt for no-cook meals, microwave cooking, or grilling outside.
• Run heat-producing appliances like dishwashers and clothes dryers in the early morning or late evening.
• Unplug electronics when not in use, as even standby power can add heat to your space.
• Switching to energy-efficient LED lightbulbs can also reduce ambient heat compared to incandescent lighting.
If you do use an air conditioner, maximize its effectiveness by:
• Setting it to a reasonable temperature—around 76–78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away.
• Cleaning or replacing filters regularly to maintain airflow and efficiency.
• Sealing gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping. (Didn’t we all have a parent who said, “Close the door. You’re letting all the cool out?”)
• Using a programmable thermostat to optimize cooling schedules and reduce energy use.
If it is not cost-prohibitive, adding insulation in attics and walls can greatly reduce heat transfer. Solar panels that reflect heat can also help, as well as offset the cost of their installation. Adding weatherstripping around doors and windows, sealing cracks, and using door sweeps can make a significant difference in keeping heat out and cool air in.
Natural and eco-conscious methods can also help cool your home.
• Snake plants, ferns, or rubber trees can improve air quality and slightly cool the air through transpiration.
• White or reflective roof paint can reduce roof temperatures significantly.
• Cooling mats or bedding can make sleeping more comfortable without cranking up the A/C.
For renters or those who can’t make permanent modifications, there are still plenty of ways to keep cool.
• Use portable fans and A/C units instead of built-in systems, making sure they are the correct size for your space.
• Removable window film or static cling tinting can reflect heat without violating your lease.
• Install tension rod curtains or temporary blackout panels instead of hardware-mounted window coverings.
• Add draft blockers and weatherstripping tape that can be applied and removed without damage.
• Cover floors with light-colored rugs to reflect heat rather than absorb it.
• If allowed, use temporary adhesive hooks to hang reflective materials or light-filtering fabrics over windows.
Even if your space is warm, you can still take steps to help your body stay cool.
• Wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine or alcohol during peak heat hours.
• Take cool showers or use damp cloths on your neck and wrists to bring your body temperature down.
Keeping your home or apartment cool in the summer doesn’t have to be expensive or energy-intensive. With a few adjustments such as blocking sunlight, optimizing airflow, using fans effectively, and making renter-friendly upgrades, you can create a more comfortable indoor environment while keeping energy bills in check.
Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.
Real Estate
The world’s on fire and D.C. is on sale (sort of)
Prices are up, but then again, nothing makes sense anymore
ICE is disappearing people, revered government agencies are shuttering, and who knows if we’ll be in World War III next week? But can you believe prices in D.C. are actually still up 6.3% since last year? It doesn’t make sense, and perhaps that does make sense, because nothing seems to make any sense any more.
That said, there are some parts of our market that are truly suffering. The interest rates, which have been up, up, up for about four years now, are the ongoing rain on our market’s military parade. Combine that with 75,000 federal employees taking a buyout nationwide, and DOGE cuts eliminating around 40,000 federal jobs in the District (per estimates by the D.C. CFO), not to mention thousands of other job losses in non-governmental organizations due to funding and program cuts, and you’ve got a case of uncertainty, and downright unaffordability in the pool of otherwise would-be buyers.
This has had a marked impact on properties that starter-home buyers and low- to mid-level employees would otherwise buy, most notably condominium and cooperative apartment units. These properties have already slowed in our market thanks to the profound impact that higher interest rates have had on their monthly carrying costs—pair that with job insecurity, and a lot of condos are proving to be very difficult to sell indeed.
So how is the average sale price up in our market?
The increase is almost entirely due to the resounding strength of the single-family home market, especially in upper Northwest D.C., where it is still quite common to see bidding wars, even on properties pushing past the $3M mark. It seems that buyers in that echelon are less impacted by a few percentage points in the interest rate, and less concerned about their job security. Notably, those buyers are often married with children and have an absolute need for more space, must stay in the area due to one spouse’s job, or the kid’s friend group, regardless of whether the cost of owning is thousands of dollars more per month than it would have been in 2020 or 2021. The continued appreciation in these neighborhoods defies imagination.
So, what to do if you are not one of those lucky enough to be shopping for a $3M home? The short answer: wait. If you want more space, rent your current place out and learn the joys of being a landlord while someone else pays your mortgage. Need the equity from your current home to buy your next place? Get a home equity line of credit, or loan, and pull the equity out of your current place to buy the next one. Or—and I have never recommended this before in 21 years of being a Realtor—rent for a few years. Sure, I’d love to list and sell your condo so you can climb the real estate ladder, but it might just be a waste of time, money or both if you could just ride out this storm and sell in a DOGE-less future.
All this said, there are some condos that seem to be immune from this recent negative news. Anecdotally, it feels like it’s the truly special ones that do just fine no matter the market. Our recent listing in Capitol Hill had a view from every one of its 15 windows of the Supreme Court. Sold in five days with six offers. Another condo was on the top two floors of a townhouse and had the coolest black wood floors that gleamed like a grand piano. Sold in four days at full price.
So, all is not for naught if you have a condo or home in an area that people want to be in, with nice space, light, amenities and a certain je ne sais quois. And, as long as we have a democracy in a few years, my experience says our market will be back, stronger than ever, really soon.
David Bediz is a Realtor and mortgage loan broker for the Bediz Group LLC and Home Starts Here, LLC. Reach him at [email protected].
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