Real estate taxes
Submit all relevant tax adjustment documentation, such as tax bills, copies of paid tax receipts and invoices, via the Leasing Portal.
Changes of ownership – novation
FAR 42.1204 provides a framework for the government to recognize a change of ownership such as when a lessor buys or sells a property where a government tenant resides.
Preparation
Start the process early. It is a best practice for lessors to inform GSA within five days of transfer of title to ensure efficient processing of the required contractual documents.
Payment
While the change of ownership is being processed, the seller must maintain its System for Award Management (SAM) registration in “active” status. Given that the current contract terms do not change until the change of ownership is processed GSA will continue to pay the official lessor of record (the seller) until the lease is amended to recognize the new owner as the lessor.
Process
To request a change of ownership fill out this novation request form.
If a lessor needs help with the SAM.gov entity registration process, they should contact the supporting Federal Service Desk. FSD hosts a wealth of information in a searchable knowledge base, can assist with most issues, and should be the first resource in almost all cases.
Send your questions and comments to leasing@gsa.gov.