California Real Estate Leaders Call for Continued Support for Dreams of Homeownership Funding

C.A.R. Advocates for Sustained Funding to Promote Homeownership

On May 15, 2026, the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) publicly voiced its appreciation for Governor Gavin Newsom's revised budget proposal for the state of California. A crucial aspect of this proposal is the continued funding for the California Housing Finance Agency's (CalHFA) Dream For All program, which has proven to be one of the most effective strategies for promoting homeownership, especially among first-time and first-generation buyers in California's increasingly competitive housing market.

C.A.R. President Tamara Suminski emphasized that down payment assistance provided through the Dream For All initiative is essential for many Californians striving to achieve long-term financial stability and generational wealth through homeownership. The challenges posed by California's housing affordability crisis make such programs invaluable. "This will help more Californians achieve long-term financial stability and provide generational wealth opportunities," Suminski remarked.

The association praised Governor Newsom for his commitment to addressing the ongoing housing affordability challenges by ensuring that policies are in place to increase homeownership opportunities, lower costs, and boost housing development. Additionally, C.A.R. commended the measures aimed at supporting homeowners affected by wildfires, including mortgage relief offered through the CalAssist program.

Looking to the future, C.A.R. is resolute in its commitment to expanding homeownership opportunities for Californians. The organization urges both the Governor and the Legislature to continue prioritizing the Dream For All program, advocating for enhanced funding in upcoming budgets. This approach is essential to enable even more Californians to access the benefits of housing stability and the wealth-building potential that comes with homeownership.

In the statement, Suminski voiced C.A.R.’s readiness to collaborate with policymakers to explore practical and balanced solutions that could effectively enlarge pathways to homeownership. As a leading force in California real estate for over 120 years, the association is dedicated to elevating professionalism within the industry and advocating for policies that support all Californians in realizing their homeownership dreams.

The C.A.R. represents one of the largest trade organizations in the United States, with a membership of around 190,000 real estate professionals. Since its inception, it has been dedicated to not only improving the professionalism in the real estate sector but also promoting and advocating for sustainable strategies that address the pressing issue of housing affordability throughout California.

As housing continues to be a pivotal topic in California’s socio-economic landscape, the sustained commitment to programs like Dream For All is crucial. Without adequate funding and support, the aspirations of many Californians to become homeowners—a significant element in building personal and community wealth—could remain unfulfilled. The C.A.R. calls for ongoing dialogue and action from state leaders to ensure that access to affordable housing becomes a reality for more families across the state.