The Vacant to Vibrant Amendment Act of 2025 aims to tackle the challenges posed by vacant and blighted properties in the District of Columbia through a series of comprehensive measures. Key provisions include the establishment of a tangled title information sheet to assist heirs in property transfers, a will registry for safekeeping wills, and a single-family home rehabilitation program offering grants for necessary repairs. The act also introduces payment plans for delinquent real property taxes, allowing homeowners to manage their tax liabilities more effectively. Additionally, the bill enhances the registration and regulation of vacant properties, streamlines the permit review process for construction projects, and introduces new tax rates and incentives for property renovations.
Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to improve the management of vacant buildings, including a requirement for owners to register their properties within 90 days of vacancy and pay associated fees. It establishes maintenance standards for vacant buildings, outlines the process for appointing a receiver for nuisance properties, and introduces a public database for transparency. The legislation also revises the foreclosure process for Class 3 and Class 4 properties, ensuring property owners receive adequate notice and have opportunities to address tax delinquencies. Overall, the act seeks to revitalize neighborhoods by reducing the number of vacant and blighted properties while supporting homeowners in maintaining their residences.