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Bill

SB 606

Residential Real Property - Tenants' Right of First Refusal

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris West

Maryland grants residential tenants the right to match and purchase their rental property before landlords sell to third parties, prioritizing tenant stability over unrestricted owner sales.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 525
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Bill Summary · SB 606

Legislative bill overview

SB 606 grants residential tenants a legal right of first refusal when their landlord intends to sell the property, allowing tenants to match any third-party offer before the sale proceeds. The bill requires landlords to notify tenants of sale intentions and provide them a specified period to exercise their purchase option at the proposed sale price.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses housing affordability and tenant stability by giving long-term renters an opportunity to build equity in their homes rather than face displacement during property sales. It shifts some negotiating power from landlords to tenants in Maryland's competitive housing market, potentially preserving housing for existing residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Property owner concerns: Landlords argue this restricts their ability to sell freely and may reduce property values or market flexibility, potentially discouraging rental property investment
  • Financing complications: Tenants may lack access to capital or mortgage approval within the required timeframe to exercise the option, making the right theoretical rather than practical
  • Market effects: Real estate professionals worry this could reduce transaction velocity, complicate sales processes, and artificially constrain the buyer pool in residential markets

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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