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NYSAR Statement on Governor Hochul’s State of the State Address

The New York State Association of REALTOR(S), Inc. (NYSAR) applauds Governor Hochul for proposing new and enhanced programs to assist New York homebuyers during her annual State of the State address.

We support the creation of a Pro-Housing Supply Infrastructure Fund that will assist local governments with infrastructure challenges and enable the development of housing across New York.  Providing further technical assistance in the development of master plans and zoning updates will also enable communities in New York to create more housing.  Developers of housing in New York routinely lament the process of navigating New York’s environmental review process. We are hopeful that Governor Hochul’s proposal to streamline the review of modest sized developments will lead to an increased development of housing.

The governor’s proposal to allow for an opt-in to local governments to offer a tax incentive program for owners of low to moderate income homebuyers will open the door housing for New Yorkers that struggle with the property their tax burden.

NYSAR stands ready to work with Governor Hochul and the state legislature to strengthen efforts combatting bias and illegal discrimination in real estate appraisals.  There is no room for illegal discrimination in any facet of the real estate transaction. Every homeowner and buyer deserve a fair and unbiased property valuation, free from discrimination or systemic inequities. To this end NYSAR was supportive of New York’s first in the nation requirement, that all real estate appraisers, beginning in 2022, complete a fair housing and fair lending education course to obtain and renew their license — an important step in promoting accountability and awareness.