EXHIBIT 23(a) INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S CONSENT - ----------------------------- We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-8 of Washington Homes, Inc. of our report dated September 3, 1999 appearing in the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 31, 1999. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP - ------------------------- Deloitte & Touche LLP McLean, Virginia March 7, 2000