Governor Abbott's State of the State Address Emphasizes Real Estate Priorities in Texas

On February 2, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott delivered a significant State of the State address that drew applause from the Texas REALTORS® for its focus on critical real estate issues. Highlighted in his speech were key priorities such as enhancing housing affordability, advancing property tax reforms, strengthening essential water infrastructure, and upholding private property rights. These issues resonate strongly with the Texas REALTORS® agenda as it aligns closely with their priorities for the ongoing 89th Legislative Session.

Christy Gessler, the 2025 Chairman of Texas REALTORS®, expressed appreciation for the Governor acknowledging these pressing matters, recognizing the vital role that housing and property rights play in Texas's growth trajectory. She stated, "The Governor's recognition of these pressing real estate issues in his State of the State address is a testament to the vital role housing and property rights play in Texas, and we appreciate his leadership on these topics."

The state of Texas has been experiencing unprecedented population and economic growth, making it essential to address these pressing issues. The emphasis on tackling problems like housing accessibility is particularly relevant as they directly impact Texas's overall quality of life and economic strength. Gessler emphasized that the association's initiatives reflect the broader interests of all Texans, not just those within the real estate sector, which underscores the importance of these topics for the entire state population.

Among the notable topics the Governor touched upon was the concerning issue of squatters, which poses a direct challenge to property owners. In response to rising concerns, Texas REALTORS® adopted a proactive position on squatters in December 2024, which aims to safeguard property owners’ rights and interests from trespassers. Gessler remarked, "This new policy position is crucial for protecting homeowners and ensuring the integrity of property ownership throughout Texas."

Governor Abbott's commitment to these issues highlights a need for ongoing legislative support to enhance housing policies. The collaboration between Texas REALTORS® and the state government is key in developing comprehensive strategies that support property owners and foster community development. The association remains dedicated to ensuring accessibility to homeownership for all Texans, thus building strong and vibrant communities across the state.

As the Texas Legislature gears up for the 89th session, Texas REALTORS® looks forward to working closely with Governor Abbott and legislators to advocate for policies that not only protect property rights but also support broader community advancements. The hope is that through this collective effort, real estate markets in Texas can thrive, maintaining the state's prominent status as an ideal location to live and conduct business.

Amid these discussions, Gessler reiterated the association's commitment to engaging with constituents to uplift policies that reflect their interests and enhance quality of life. The Texas REALTORS® aim to secure a promising future for the state's real estate market amid ongoing changes and challenges in the economic landscape. As Texas continues to evolve, the emphasis on real estate issues will be pivotal in shaping the future for its residents, underscoring the critical nature of Abbott's address and the subsequent actions to be taken by lawmakers.