As 2026 wraps up, here's what owners should plan for in 2027, a quick winter checklist, and a few things happening around Tacoma this month.
2027 rent rules to plan around
- Washington's cap on rent increases for 2027 is 10 percent, for increases that take effect between January 1 and December 31, 2027 (Washington State Department of Commerce).
- The cap is based on when an increase takes effect, not when the notice goes out. A notice sent this fall for a January increase falls under the 2027 cap.
- Rent increases need at least 90 days' written notice, and rent can't be raised during the first 12 months of a tenancy.
- Some properties are exempt, including units whose first certificate of occupancy was issued 12 or fewer years ago.
This is general information, not legal advice.
Before the first freeze
- Service heating systems before the first cold snap.
- Insulate exposed pipes and mark the water shutoffs.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Line up snow and ice removal for walkways and stairs.
Market snapshot
Tacoma's median rent was $1,675 in Apartment List's November 2026 report, up 0.2 percent in October and down 1.2 percent from a year ago.
Construction watch: light rail to the Tacoma Dome
The Tacoma Dome Link Extension, which will bring light rail from Federal Way to the Tacoma Dome, is in environmental review. Sound Transit expects the final environmental study in 2027, and the board will choose the final route and stations after that. In May, the board's updated plan kept the project fully funded and deferred planned parking garages at South Federal Way and Fife.
Around Tacoma
- Norpoint Classic Thanksgiving run, Thursday, November 26 at 9 AM: a chip-timed 5K and 3K run or walk through Northeast Tacoma, starting at the Center at Norpoint. Details
- Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, November 27 to January 3, 4:30 to 10 PM nightly. Timed tickets are required and sold online. Tickets
- Christmas Regale at Fort Nisqually, Saturday, December 5, 11 AM to 4 PM: ornament making, parlor games, a holiday market and a visit with Father Christmas. Details
Now leasing
- Watersedge Townhomes, Tacoma: Shaelissa, (253) 566-7020
- Northwest Terrace, Bonney Lake: Daniella, (253) 431-2369
Our view
Good planning keeps homes stable for residents and properties well run for owners. If you'd like a second set of eyes on your 2027 budget or rent schedule, we're happy to help.
Questions about planning for 2027? Email marketing@starboard.realestate or request a free property analysis.
Sources: Washington State Department of Commerce, HB 1217 Landlord Resource Center and RCW 59.18.140 and RCW 59.18.710 and Rental Housing Association of Washington, Understanding Washington's 2027 Rent Increase Cap and Apartment List, Tacoma rent report, November 2026 and Sound Transit, Tacoma Dome Link Extension.