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California REALTORS Unite to Protect Homeownership

In a significant turn of events, the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) announced a momentous victory in safeguarding homeownership across the state. This comes after REALTORS statewide rallied against Assembly Bill 736 (AB 736), a proposed tax initiative that would have permitted local governments to raise transfer taxes associated with property sales. Over the course of a mere 24 hours, thousands of REALTORS® mobilized, making more than 12,000 calls to legislators urging them to reject this detrimental proposal.

The sheer scale and speed of this grassroots effort conveyed a powerful message to lawmakers: California cannot resolve its affordability crisis by imposing greater financial burdens on homebuyers. C.A.R. President Tamara Suminski articulated the organization's stance, stating, “C.A.R. opposed AB 736 because increasing transfer taxes would have made buying and selling homes even more expensive. This is particularly concerning at a time when affordability is one of the most pressing challenges facing Californians.”

Expanding the local transfer taxes would have further strained families diligently trying to achieve the dream of homeownership. Suminski emphasized that C.A.R.'s grassroots network is potent because it consists of members committed to defending not just their clients, but also the future of homeownership in California.

Beyond halting AB 736, California REALTORS® have also endorsed a broader agreement to put a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot. This amendment aims to restore the requirement for certain local tax increases to receive approval from two-thirds of the voter population. Furthermore, as part of this comprehensive agreement, ACA 13 will no longer be presented on the November ballot. C.A.R. had vehemently opposed ACA 13, fearing it would undermine the long-standing taxpayer protections established by Proposition 13. The organization was prepared to allocate significant resources to defeat this measure if necessary.

Suminski expressed the importance of these victories, asserting, “These achievements go beyond the defeat of a single bill. They enhance protections for Californians against rising costs, uphold crucial taxpayer safeguards, and ensure that homeownership remains accessible to a broader demographic. This also highlights the strength of our association. When REALTORS® assemble and speak as one, California's leaders will take heed.”

C.A.R.'s mission is deeply rooted in protecting homeownership. Suminski reiterated that their efforts do not conclude here. The organization will persist in advocating for policies that enhance ownership opportunities, defend taxpayers' interests, and keep the California Dream alive for future generations. Suminski poignantly remarked, “Homeownership is not merely about having a place to live; it encapsulates the essence of building opportunities, security, and a stable future.”

About the California Association of REALTORS®

For over a century, the California Association of REALTORS® has played a pivotal role in the real estate industry, representing nearly 190,000 members dedicated to advancing professionalism in real estate. Headquartered in Sacramento, C.A.R. is recognized as one of the largest statewide trade organizations in the United States, committed to championing the significance of homeownership in California. For more information, you can explore their official website at www.car.org.