Rental Housing Association of WA and Landlord Association of the Inland Northwest Announce Merger

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Seattle, WA – In a landmark move set to reshape the rental housing landscape in Washington State, the Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA) and the Landlord Association of the Inland Northwest (LLA) have announced their merger, effective August 1, 2024. This historic unification combines the strengths and resources of both organizations to better serve rental housing providers and residents across the state, positioning RHAWA as a formidable force representing roughly 6,000 rental housing providers.

LLA, a stalwart presence in Spokane since 1971, has been instrumental in supporting housing providers in both urban and rural areas, including the City of Spokane and surrounding counties. The association was originally formed by residential property owners and managers to create an environment conducive to private enterprise amidst increasing governmental and legislative demands. Under the leadership of Board President Steve Corker, a retired executive and former Spokane city councilmember, LLA has significantly influenced local matters related to landlord-tenant law. Corker will continue his invaluable leadership and mentorship as a RHAWA Regent.

“LLA has helped hundreds of small mom and pop housing providers operate their rental properties by providing important legal forms and advocacy at the local and state level on their behalf,” said Steve Corker. “The merger with RHAWA will provide a tremendous boost for our members with the additional resources they will have access to, and a first-rate statewide advocacy operation which has a proven track record of defeating new rental restrictions.”

RHAWA, founded in 1935, has grown from a Seattle-based association into Washington State’s largest rental housing association. It offers a wealth of industry-leading benefits, including comprehensive leases and forms, a robust Support Center, educational courses, advocacy efforts, and more. The association is dedicated to promoting safe and affordable housing while maintaining the highest standards of ethics and integrity.

Strengthening Political Influence Across the State

As Washington’s political landscape evolves with new local and statewide regulations, the merger between RHAWA and LLA strengthens the voice of rental housing providers across the state. RHAWA is committed to equipping members with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the market and advocate for fair policies that benefit both providers and residents.

Sean Flynn, President of RHAWA amplified Mr. Corker’s comments, “The RHAWA / LLA merger not only strengthens the small housing providers clout in Olympia, provides the best rental housing forms in the state for housing providers to help make the rental process more efficient while protecting the property owner, but more importantly demonstrates that rental owners across the state, from Seattle to Spokane, are all in this together.” 

About Rental Housing Association of Washington 
With nearly 6,000 members, RHAWA provides resources and advocacy to small to mid-size rental housing providers. Our goal is to support members and the community in building a healthy housing economy for all. RHAWA is a not-for-profit organization and provides its members with a full range of products and services including leasing forms and documents, support center, and education.

Press Contact:    Melissa Canfield   |   mcanfield@RHAwa.org   |   (206) 905-0615