EZ Title Loans on Richmond Highway closes

A “For Rent”  sign can be seen in the front yard of the former EZ Title Loans at 8218 Richmond Highway.

EZ Title Loans, one of the many car title loan lenders that have sprung up on Richmond Highway in the last few years, is no longer open.

The location at 8218 Richmond Highway closed in early May, according to a man at the franchise’s Falls Church store who identified himself as the manager. The manager, who did not provide his name, said the Richmond Highway location would not be reopening and the building was on the rental market.

A sign on the front door directs customers to contact the Falls Church location or go to the rental car business next door to make payments.

Car title loan lenders have come under increased scrutiny around the state for what critics describe as predatory lending practices. State Sen. Scott Surovell (D-36), who has pushed legislation to put tougher restrictions car title lenders, hailed the closing of EZ Title Loans in a Facebook post earlier this week.

“EZ Title Loan on US1 is dead! Maybe Route 1 has finally reached maximum market saturation in today’s economy?” Surovell wrote.

Last year Fairfax County estimated there were 31 car title loan and payday loan operations throughout the county. In there Route 1 corridor there are at least six still operating: three TitleMax locations, as well as LoanMax, CashPoint, and Fast Auto Loans outlets.

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors passed restrictions on alternative lenders last year. Among other things, the rules forbid car title loan outlets from opening in Commercial Revitalization Districts or in stand-alone structures — two stipulations that will prevent another car title business from opening at the former EZ Title Loans location.