Judge Approves $9M Sale of Condemned Newport News Apartment Building

Seaview Lofts owner Ben Weinstein ordered to pay debts after bankruptcy case dismissed

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:07pm

A federal bankruptcy judge has approved the $9 million sale of the condemned Seaview Lofts apartment building in Newport News, Virginia, and ordered the former sole owner, Ben Weinstein, to pay his outstanding debts. The high-rise building had been in disrepair and was condemned prior to the sale.

Why it matters

The sale of the Seaview Lofts building marks the end of a long-running legal battle over the property, which had fallen into disrepair and been condemned. The case highlights the challenges faced by owners of aging apartment buildings and the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to ensure the safety of residents.

The details

Ben Weinstein, the owner of Seaview Lofts LLC, purchased the Seaview Lofts building but failed to properly maintain it, leading to its eventual condemnation. Weinstein filed for bankruptcy, but the judge has now dismissed the case and ordered him to pay his outstanding debts related to the property.

  • The Seaview Lofts building was condemned prior to the sale.
  • Weinstein filed for bankruptcy, but the case was dismissed on February 6, 2026.

The players

Ben Weinstein

The former sole owner of Seaview Lofts LLC, which owned the condemned Seaview Lofts apartment building in Newport News, Virginia.

Seaview Lofts LLC

The company that owned the condemned Seaview Lofts apartment building in Newport News, Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that all property owners are held accountable for the proper maintenance and upkeep of their buildings to protect the safety of residents.”

— Robert Jenkins, Newport News City Council Member

What’s next

The new owners of the Seaview Lofts building will need to work with the city of Newport News to address the property's issues and prepare it for redevelopment.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of responsible property ownership and the need for stronger oversight and enforcement to prevent the deterioration of aging apartment buildings, which can put residents at risk and burden local communities.