Navigating: AB 723 - New Photo Disclosure Rules

Posted by Communications on Oct 20, 2025 5:23:21 PM

A new law, Assembly Bill 723 (AB 723),  will soon change how real estate professionals advertise properties using digitally altered images. This bill, which adds Section 10140.8 to the Business and Professions Code, was a key focus for C.A.R. (Best Practices Here)

From the start, the California Association of Realtors (CAR) was deeply engaged on this issue. CAR opposed the initial bill, arguing that it was duplicative of existing false advertising laws and created "unnecessary liability and risks unintended consequences" for members.

CAR's advocacy focused on two key problem areas:

  1. Vague Definitions: The initial language risked penalizing agents for "routine, good-faith edits" like decluttering or minor corrections, which are standard industry practices. CAR pushed for a clear definition that targeted only material changes.

  2. Third-Party Liability: The bill could have made licensees liable for images scraped by or posted on third-party websites that they do not control.

CAR's voice was partially agreed with. The final version of the bill includes amendments that "attempt to address opposition concerns". Specifically, the law now clearly exempts common photo-editing techniques and limits an agent's compliance burden to websites they directly control.

Here is a clear breakdown of the new law as passed best practices for compliance.

Photo - Virtually Unaltered   Photo - Virtually Staged

The Heart of the Law: What's "Altered" and What Isn't?

This law is not intended to penalize professional photography. Its goal is to stop deceptive alterations that mislead consumers about the physical reality of a property. The law itself, in BPC § 10140.8, creates a, two-part definition:

1. What IS an "Altered Image" (Disclosure Required)

A disclosure is required if an image is "altered through the use of photo editing software or artificial intelligence to add, remove, or change elements" of the real property.

This includes, but is not limited to, changes to:

  • Furniture, appliances, flooring, and walls

  • Fixtures, paint color, hardscape, and landscape

  • Elements "outside of, or visible from, the property," such as streetlights, utility poles, views through windows, and neighboring properties

  • This also includes "virtual staging" where furniture or other physical attributes are digitally added to a room.

2. What IS NOT an "Altered Image" (NO Disclosure Needed)

This is the key clarification CAR successfully lobbied for. You do not need a disclosure for "common photo editing adjustments" that "do not change the condition" or "representation" of the real property.

The law explicitly exempts:

  • Lighting

  • Sharpening

  • White balance

  • Color correction

  • Angle

  • Straightening

  • Cropping

  • Exposure

The Rule: You can make the photo look better (brighter, crisper, more true-to-life). You cannot make the property look different (new grass, no power lines, different-colored cabinets).

Disclosure Duties: How to Comply

If you use an image that meets the definition of "digitally altered," you must do the following:

1. For ALL Advertising (Print or Online): You must include a "reasonably conspicuous statement" on or next to the image disclosing that it has been altered.

2. For PRINT Advertising (Flyers, Mailers, etc.): In addition to the disclosure statement, you must also provide:

  • "a link to a publicly accessible internet website, URL, or QR code that includes, and clearly identifies, the original, unaltered image".

3. For ONLINE Advertising (MLS, Website, etc.): The law provides a more direct compliance path for websites "over which the real estate broker or salesperson... has control". You have two options:

  • Option A: Follow the print rule (disclosure statement + link/QR code).

  • Option B: Simply "include the unaltered version of the picture" in the posting itself.


Best Practices for Easy Compliance (Check with your Broker for Broker Specific Guidance)  CRMLS is currently evaluating this new law.

This law goes into effect on January 1st, 2026

Here is a straightforward action plan (Check with your Broker, for Broker specific rules:)

  • For Print Ads:

    • Create a single, public webpage or photo gallery (like on a brokerage site or a cloud service) with all the original photos for that listing.

    • Generate a single QR code that links to that gallery.

    • On any altered photo in a flyer, add the text: "Image has been digitally altered. Scan QR code for original photos."

  • For Online Ads (The Easiest Way):

    • When uploading to the MLS or a website that yor firm has control over, simply upload both versions of the photo.

    • Use the photo caption to label them clearly. This satisfies all requirements.

    • Altered Photo Caption: "Virtually Staged" or "Digitally Altered"

    • Original Photo Caption: "Original Photo - Unaltered"

By posting both labeled photos in the same gallery, you are being "reasonably conspicuous" and are "includ[ing] the unaltered version", placing you in full compliance.

Did you know?  PSAR MLS subscribers receive 30 FREE photo edits per month with REimagineHome.  Communicate your vision and bring more value to your listing. Watch a quick video overview, or get started with this helpful guide.


Why this was pushed for: Trust and Transparency

The Consumer Federation of California pushed for this law to protect consumers from being "misled" and to give them a "true picture" of the property.

They said "Today, with the advancement of technology these tricks are easier than ever. But consumers are far too often misled by such images, only to waste their valuable time and effort when they actually see the property in person. To many consumers this feels like a bait and switch tactic, and we would argue that in some cases this is an unfair business practice."

Find C.A.R. information regarding new laws for 2026 here.

Here are the topic headings listed on the “2026 New Laws” chart by California Association of REALTORS®. You can view full descriptions and links here: 

  • Advertising: Digitally-Altered Images

  • Closed-loop payment system: Broker-provided form of payment accepted by vendor or referral source

  • Data-broker: Broker prohibition on selling consumer personal information

  • Energy: Building decarbonization: Prepaid charge disclosure

  • Energy: Solar: Fire-resistant building materials; residential roofing permits

  • Fire safety: Detached accessory dwelling units: Home hardening & defensible space requirement

  • Housing element: Back-of-the-bill sale of certain homes built after wildfires — contractor disclosures and licensing

  • Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG): Ventura County ordinance: Required LPG leak-event inspector

  • Manufactured housing: Factory-built home network connection disclosure

  • Nudity: Sexually-explicit or pornographic images on rental listings prohibited

  • Privacy: Tenant property owner access agreements: Keys/pads access disclosure; use of biometric or facial recognition prohibited

  • Private works construction: Claim resolution process for contracts with owner by contractor/subcontractor

  • Real property transactions: County of Los Angeles – Wildfires: Unsolicited offers of purchase following disaster-declared homes

  • Real property transactions: Preapproved plans for single-family and multifamily housing — local agency program

  • Real-estate brokerage: Broker online advertising: Language preference for consumers; certain disclosures

  • Renters: Rent caps and anti-demolition protections for specified units in transit-oriented and housing-forward jurisdictions

  • Tax credits: Fire Safe Home Tax Credits Act (for home-hardening & vegetation management)


Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information about AB 723 and is not intended as legal advice. For specific legal guidance regarding your obligations under Business and Professions Code Section 10140.8, please consult with your brokerage's legal counsel.

Topics: Education, Brokers/Managers, Government Affairs, Technology, Industry

Announcing: PSAR’s Education Employee Insurance Grant: Practical Assistance from REALTORS®

Posted by Communications on Oct 3, 2025 9:53:39 AM

free insurance for 1st time buyers

The Issue

Homeowners' insurance costs in California are climbing. In San Diego, many buyers are seeing double-digit renewal increases. For first-time buyers, these added costs can derail closings or, at a minimum, strain budgets. The impact is particularly acute for local education employees, whose salaries often lag the region’s cost of living.

FAQ at the bottom of this page.

A grant application link will
be available on November 1st

The Solution

The Education Employee Insurance Grant provides up to $2,500 per eligible first-time homebuyer employed as an education employee in San Diego County. Funds offset homeowners' insurance during the first two years of ownership, reducing a key barrier to closing and early retention.

Why This Matters to REALTORS®

  • A reason to initiate new conversations within the education community
  • Addresses a real affordability hurdle that stalls transactions
  • Highlights the insurance crisis in California
  • An opportunity to build long-term loyalty by supporting clients beyond closing
  • Demonstrates REALTOR® leadership in mitigating a pain point for local homebuyers

How REALTORS® and Education Employees Participate

  • Who applies: California REALTOR® submits on the buyer’s behalf.  Only transactions with a California REALTOR® are eligible. 
  • Who Benefits: Education Employees include K–12 public school teachers, school administrators, classified employees, and staff of public charter, district, or county schools. 
  • When: Applications accepted for homes that closed on or after November 1st on November 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026, or until funds are fully dispersed
  • What’s needed: Closing statement, proof of education-employee employment, insurance declarations, and a first-time homebuyer affidavit.
  • Process: Submit the complete package to grants@psar.org. PSAR reviews within 10 business days and notifies the REALTOR® & Buyer of the decision. Checks will be mailed to the buyer's address as listed on the application.
  • REALTORS® are limited to two approved grants.

Helping education employees into homeownership strengthens ties with schools, families, and neighborhoods. This grant gives REALTORS® a clear, service-driven way to remove a rising cost barrier and deepen community connections.

 

A portion of this program is funded by the C.A.R. Housing Affordability Fund.  To learn more about this fund,   or to donate, follow this link100% of your donation goes directly into solving the housing crisis in California. REALTORS are also encouraged to contribute during dues billing.

2014-HAF-Logo

Frequently asked questions

What is the Educator Insurance Grant?
Who qualifies as an “educator”?
Who can apply for the grant?
Who reviews and approves the applications?
Who can REALTORS® contact with questions?

Who can homebuyers contact with questions?
When is the application period?
When must the home have been sold?
What are the buyer’s eligibility requirements?
How much assistance is available?
 How does the process work?
How many grants can a REALTOR® submit?
How does this empower REALTORS®?
What documentation is required?
Why did PSAR choose to focus this grant program on educators?

More Information

REALTORS® For questions, visit www.psar.org/grants or email grants@psar.org.
Media inquiries: ceo@psar.org (copy support@psar.org)

Buyers, please ask your REALTOR®

 

Topics: Brokers/Managers, Government Affairs, Marketing, PSAR Benefits, Industry

Return Your Ballot by TOMORROW, April 8th – Your Vote Matters

Posted by PSAR Government Affairs on Apr 7, 2025 10:19:49 AM

A special election is underway in San Diego County Supervisor District 1. The outcome will decide the tie-breaking vote on the County Board of Supervisors— a board that makes decisions on critical issues that impact homeownership and the real estate industry.

Issues at stake include:

-Stopping a proposed real estate transfer tax—a tax on selling property that would make homeownership more expensive

-Rent control and rental housing policies

-New taxes on home building, including the Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) tax

-Land use decisions and General Plan amendments

-Funding for housing programs

 

PSAR has endorsed John McCann for County Supervisor. 

John McCann understands the impact these policies have on homeowners, property rights, and real estate professionals. He is committed to opposing harmful taxes like the proposed transfer tax and standing up for homeownership in San Diego County.

Protect your business. Protect homeownership. Return your ballot by tomorrow, April 8th.

NAR_CA_McCann_DFLT2_Dem_GB1

If you are registered to vote in County Supervisorial District 1, you should have already received your ballot in the mail.  Below are your options for voting:

Click Here for a list of Ballot Drop Box Locations

Click Here for a list of Vote Center Locations

Every vote counts, please vote! 

Pacific_Southwest_Association_of_REALTORS-2025-JPG-color (3)

 
 

Topics: Government Affairs

Navigating the New FCC Rules: A Guide for Real Estate Professionals

Posted by Communications on Jan 22, 2025 8:00:00 AM

The image depicts a modern office setting where a group of real estate professionals are gathered around a sleek conference tableThe real estate industry thrives on communication, and reaching potential clients is crucial. But the digital age has brought with it a wave of unwanted calls and texts, leading to frustration and distrust. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has stepped in with new regulations to protect consumers, and these rules have significant implications for how real estate professionals connect with leads.  For detailed information from the FCC follow this link.


Understanding the Key Changes

  • One-to-One Consent is Paramount: Forget blanket opt-ins! The new rules demand that consumers provide individual, specific consent to each business that intends to contact them via robocalls or "robotexts." This consent must be "logically and topically associated" with the website where they provided it. For example, someone signing up for home valuation on your website can't be assumed to consent to calls about mortgage offers from your affiliated lender.

  • Lead Generation Under Scrutiny: Lead generation companies can no longer rely on broad consent obtained through third-party websites. They must ensure consumers explicitly consent to each business receiving their information.

  • Existing Leads Need a Check-Up: Don't assume your current contact list is good to go! Leads obtained before January 27, 2025, may not meet the new consent standards. Review your database and re-obtain consent where necessary.

  • Manual Outreach Remains Viable: While the new rules focus on automated communication, you can still make manual calls and send texts without prior consent. However, you must adhere to the Do-Not-Call Registry and avoid using pre-recorded or artificial voices.

  • Legal Challenges on the Horizon: The one-to-one consent rule is facing legal challenges, and its future may be influenced by court decisions. Stay informed about any updates or changes to the rule.

Actionable Steps for Real Estate Professionals

  1. Review and Revise Consent Forms: Ensure your website and other lead capture forms clearly state that the consumer is consenting to receive calls/texts specifically from your brokerage or agency.
  2. Obtain Express Written Consent: Always get written consent (electronic is acceptable) before initiating robocalls or "robotexts."
  3. Scrutinize Lead Generation Practices: Work only with lead generation companies that comply with the new FCC rules.
  4. Stay Updated on Do-Not-Call Regulations: Regularly check the Do-Not-Call Registry and promptly remove any listed numbers.
  5. Educate Your Team: Ensure all agents and staff understand the new rules and their implications.

Important Disclaimer:

This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The FCC regulations are complex and subject to change. While we strive for accuracy, it is crucial to consult with an attorney for professional guidance on how to ensure your business practices are fully compliant. Final decisions regarding your business practices should be made after seeking legal counsel.

Topics: Education, Government Affairs, Market Information, Technology

Navigating Price Gouging Laws in California: A Guide For Real Estate

Posted by Communications on Jan 17, 2025 2:30:00 AM

Price Gouging Laws in California
In the aftermath of emergencies, the real estate industry in California faces unique challenges. Understanding the state's anti-price gouging laws is crucial whether you're a sales agent, broker, or property manager. These laws not only protect consumers during crises but also guide professionals in maintaining ethical standards.

On January 14th, 2025, due to complaints about owners, the DRE Released this advisory.

Here's what you need to know: 

The Essence of Price Gouging in Real Estate
Price gouging occurs when prices for housing, rentals, or other essential services are significantly increased to exploit an emergency. For real estate professionals, this typically relates to the pricing of rentals, homes for sale, and emergency lodging. The goal is to prevent undue strain on those affected by disasters, ensuring access to housing remains fair and equitable.

California’s Stance on Price Gouging
California law, specifically Penal Code Section 396, restricts increasing the price of housing and other essential services by more than 10% following an emergency declaration. This applies to sales, rentals, and services across the board, ensuring that real estate professionals are aligned with legal and ethical pricing standards during critical times.

Timing and Application of the Law
These protections activate immediately upon an emergency declaration by federal, state, or local authorities and are initially set for 30 days. For real estate-related services, like reconstruction and cleanup, the period extends to 180 days. Importantly, officials can extend these timeframes to meet ongoing needs, affecting how properties are marketed and managed.

Staying Informed on Declarations
Real estate professionals should closely monitor emergency declarations to comply with legal requirements. This includes staying updated through the Governor's website and local government channels. Awareness of state and local declarations is key to ensuring your practices align with current regulations. The following locations are under price gouging protections.

Who and What Is Covered?
The statute broadly applies to all entities within the real estate sector, including individuals and companies involved in selling, renting, or managing properties. It covers a wide range of necessities, notably including rental housing, hotels, and motels, ensuring that the industry's response to emergencies is comprehensive and compliant.

Addressing Cost Increases and Violations
If your costs increase due to supplier price hikes, the law allows the cost to be factored into pricing, provided it can be justified. However, compliance with the statute is closely monitored, and violations can lead to severe penalties, including fines and criminal charges. Ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing is crucial to avoid legal repercussions.

Role of Real Estate Professionals in Compliance
As gatekeepers of housing and essential services, real estate professionals have a pivotal role in upholding these laws. This involves adhering to pricing regulations and advising clients and the community on their rights and protections. Your guidance can help navigate the complexities of emergencies, ensuring access to housing remains fair and stable.

Conclusion
For real estate professionals in California, understanding and complying with anti-price gouging laws is essential. These regulations ensure that during emergencies, the industry acts with integrity, maintaining fair pricing and access to housing. By staying informed and adhering to these laws, you play a vital role in supporting communities during their most vulnerable times, reinforcing the ethical standards that define the real estate profession.

This link provides useful guidance for identifying if a state of emergency affecting price gouging in rental housing is in effect. Simply locate your rental property's county on the list and note the code (a letter in parentheses) next to it. Then, refer to the explanations at the bottom of the page to understand which price gouging laws apply to your situation

 

Important Disclosure
Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the content to your specific situation.

As a real estate professional, it's essential to understand your actions' legal implications, especially in emergencies and price-gouging laws. Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney or legal expert to obtain advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Doing so will ensure you navigate these challenges with the utmost compliance and integrity, safeguarding your professional practice and the communities you serve.

 

Topics: Brokers/Managers, Government Affairs, Property Management

PSAR supports pro-housing candidates and initiatives - 2024 Election Guide

Posted by PSAR Government Affairs on Oct 11, 2024 5:04:01 PM

PSAR has endorsed the following candidates for the November 2024 General Election.

PSAR would like to remind you to please register and vote in this upcoming election. You may register here by October 21st.   PSAR is endorsing the candidates listed below and has taken positions on the ballot measures and propositions listed at the bottom.  The candidates below have demonstrated to PSAR their understanding of our industry and have indicated their commitment to home ownership and private property rights.  PSAR's Government Affairs Committee also reviewed the ballot measures and propositions listed below and PSAR is taking the positions listed based on the impacts these items would have on our industry.   
 
Amid the current housing crisis, we must elect leaders and enact policies that will protect private property rights and promote home ownership.  Click on each candidate to find out how you can support them.

2024_Candidate_Colin Parent 2024_Candidate_Andrew Hayes 2024_Candidate_Joel Anderson-1

2024_Candidate_Michael Inzunza

  Genevieve Suzuki Mark Robak

 

___________________________________

Measures and Propositions

National City
Vote NO on Measure R - Parcel Tax

Chula Vista
Vote YES on Measure P

California
Vote NO on Prop 33 - Rent Control

No on Prop 33 Video

_______________________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower REALTORS®.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

 

Topics: Announcements, Government Affairs

PSAR Flood Relief Grants Aid Families After January 2024 San Diego Floods

Posted by Communications on Sep 3, 2024 12:00:00 AM

When devastating floods struck San Diego County in January 2024, hundreds of families were displaced, and many faced the uncertainty of how to cover their housing expenses. In response, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR), in partnership with the REALTORS® Relief Foundation, launched the Flood Relief Grant Program to provide direct financial support to affected households.

Through this program, PSAR was able to distribute $190,000 in housing assistance grants, helping nearly 100 households with critical expenses such as mortgage, rent, and temporary housing. Each qualified applicant received up to $2,900 in assistance, offering much-needed stability during a time of crisis.

Community Impact

The grant program brought national disaster relief dollars directly into San Diego County. While the floods caused more than $30 million in damage and displaced more than 1,200 residents, PSAR’s program served as an immediate bridge to help families cover urgent housing costs while they awaited insurance claims, government relief, or other recovery assistance.

Families across impacted neighborhoods expressed gratitude for the program’s fast response. By easing financial pressure, the grants allowed many to remain in their homes or secure safe housing after losing so much to floodwaters.

Collaboration for Recovery

The success of this effort was made possible through collaboration:

  • The REALTORS® Relief Foundation provided more than $1 million in funding.

  • PSAR and local REALTOR® leaders facilitated outreach, application review, and disbursement of funds.

  • Community partners and media outlets helped spread the word, ensuring residents were aware of the application deadline and eligibility requirements.

This combined effort highlighted the REALTOR® community’s commitment to supporting housing stability and serving as trusted advocates beyond real estate transactions.

Lessons Learned and Next Steps

While PSAR is proud of the impact of the Flood Relief Grants, the need in our community remains far greater than any one program can solve. The experience underscored the importance of:

  • Fast mobilization of resources when disaster strikes.

  • Strong community partnerships to reach underserved neighborhoods.

  • Transparent reporting on outcomes, so members and residents understand the difference REALTORS® make locally.

A Record of Resilience

The Flood Relief Grant Program reflects PSAR’s mission: Empowering Real Estate Professionals and supporting the communities where REALTORS® live and work. Nearly 100 families received tangible help at a time when they needed it most.

As San Diego County continues its recovery, PSAR remains committed to advocating for housing stability, building stronger communities, and ensuring that REALTORS® are recognized as community leaders in times of both prosperity and crisis.

 

This program was made possible the the National Association of REALTOR® Relief Foundation.  To donate, please click here.  

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Topics: Government Affairs, Industry, story

Why Proposition 33 and Rent Control Harm All Californians

Posted by Richard D'Ascoli on Aug 29, 2024 3:23:11 PM

BlogBanner_Rent_Control

Understanding Rent Control and Proposition 33

Rent control policies, such as those proposed under Proposition 33, aim to limit the amount landlords can charge for rent. While these policies are often introduced to protect renters, they can lead to unintended and harmful consequences for renters, property owners, and the broader housing market. Proposition 33, in particular, seeks to expand rent control by eliminating the protections provided under the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, which currently exempts single-family homes and new construction from local rent control ordinances.

Distortion of Supply and Demand

Rent control disrupts the natural balance of housing supply and demand. By capping rents, developers and property owners lose the financial incentive to build or maintain rental properties, leading to a reduction in the overall supply of housing. As the supply decreases, demand continues to rise, particularly in high-demand areas, resulting in a housing shortage. This shortage makes it increasingly difficult for renters to find available units, driving up competition and ultimately exacerbating the very affordability issues rent control aims to address.

Impact on Single-Family Homes and Property Owners

Proposition 33 would remove the current protections for single-family homes under Costa-Hawkins, allowing local governments to impose rent control on these properties. This change would have far-reaching effects on homeowners, including retirees, service members, and others who might want to return to their homes after renting them out. These homeowners could be restricted from setting their own rental rates, limiting their ability to use or sell their properties as they see fit.

For property owners looking to sell their rental properties, Proposition 33 would further complicate matters. Under rent control, the value of these properties may decrease, limiting the pool of potential buyers. Instead of selling to first-time homebuyers or middle-class families, owners may be forced to sell to wealthy investors who can navigate the complexities of rent-controlled properties. This dynamic could further exacerbate housing inequality and reduce homeownership opportunities for many Californians.

Does Rent Control Truly Benefit the Poor?

While rent control is often marketed as a tool to help low-income renters, it does not require that applicants pass a means test to qualify for these benefits. As a result, rent-controlled units are sometimes occupied by higher-income tenants who do not need the financial assistance intended for the poor. This situation creates an unfair advantage for wealthier individuals who secure these below-market rents at the expense of property owners, who are forced to subsidize these tenants.

Moreover, wealthier individuals living in rent-controlled units are unlikely to leave, as they continue to benefit from artificially low rents. This reduces turnover and makes it more difficult for new residents, especially those from low-income backgrounds, to find affordable housing. In some cases, these individuals can even maintain their rent-controlled units while subletting them to others at higher rates, further distorting the market and benefiting those who do not need the help.

This inequity highlights a fundamental flaw in rent control policies: they do not necessarily target those most in need of housing assistance. Instead, they can provide significant benefits to those who are already financially secure, exacerbating the challenges faced by low-income renters who are unable to compete in a market with limited affordable housing options.

Landlords Targeting “Better” Tenants

Another unintended consequence of rent control is that it incentivizes landlords to be more selective about the tenants they accept. Knowing that they could be stuck with a tenant indefinitely, landlords may prioritize applicants with higher incomes, stable jobs, and strong credit histories, effectively shutting out lower-income renters. This selective process can deepen inequalities in the housing market, making it even harder for vulnerable populations to secure housing.

In some cases, landlords may even choose to convert rental units into condominiums or sell their properties to avoid the restrictions of rent control altogether. This further reduces the availability of rental housing and can contribute to gentrification, where lower-income residents are displaced from their neighborhoods.

Impact on Local Governments

The ripple effects of Proposition 33 extend to local governments as well. As property values decline due to the reduced profitability of rent-controlled properties, so too does the property tax revenue that local governments rely on to fund essential services like public safety, education, and infrastructure. In cities where rent control is widely implemented, these reductions in revenue can lead to budget shortfalls, forcing cuts to critical services that impact the entire community.

Additionally, as the rental housing market contracts, the housing shortage could worsen, leading to increased homelessness and placing further strain on government resources. Local governments may find themselves in the difficult position of having to address the unintended social consequences of rent control, from increased demand for social services to the need for more affordable housing construction, which itself may be hampered by the disincentives created by Proposition 33.

Conclusion

Proposition 33 and the expansion of rent control might seem like a solution to California’s housing crisis, but they are more likely to exacerbate existing problems. Rent control distorts the housing market by reducing supply and increasing demand, often failing to benefit the low-income renters it is supposed to help, and encourages landlords to be more selective, shutting out those most in need of affordable housing. Additionally, the policy threatens to reduce property tax revenues, which could lead to cuts in essential public services and worsen the state’s housing shortage.

Furthermore, by allowing rent control on single-family homes, Proposition 33 risks harming retirees, service members, and other homeowners who may wish to return to or sell their properties. It also limits opportunities for first-time homebuyers, favoring wealthy investors who can navigate the complexities of rent-controlled properties. The opposition from leaders like Senator Toni Atkins and Mayor Todd Gloria underscores the potential damage this proposition could do to housing development and affordability.

Moreover, rent control does not require means testing, which can lead to situations where wealthier individuals benefit from below-market rents at the expense of property owners and those who truly need affordable housing. This lack of targeting makes rent control not only ineffective but also unfair, as it can allow wealthier tenants to remain in rent-controlled units indefinitely, further reducing opportunities for low-income renters.

For these reasons, it is crucial to oppose Proposition 33. Instead of expanding rent control, California needs policies that encourage the development of more housing, improve the quality of existing rental units, and truly address the needs of low-income renters. Only by addressing the root causes of the housing crisis can we create a more stable and equitable housing market for all Californians.

Topics: Government Affairs, Industry

Summary of Key Findings from the PSAR Forum on California’s Homeowners Insurance Crisis:

Posted by PSAR Communication on Jun 18, 2024 9:59:27 AM

A recent forum at the PSAR East County Events Center addressed California’s homeowner's insurance crisis. Experts shared insights and discussed ongoing efforts to improve the situation. Key takeaways include:

  • Legislative Efforts: Legislators and state officials are actively working to solve insurance problems.
  • Appeal Process: Consumers can appeal insurance cancellations through the California Department of Insurance.
  • Regulatory Changes: The California Department of Insurance is considering regulations for forward-looking risk modeling to facilitate policy writing.
  • Rate Hikes: State regulators may approve double-digit rate hikes as part of the Sustainable Insurance Strategy.
  • HOA Challenges: Homeowners associations face significant increases in master policy prices.
  • Early Shopping: Members’ clients should start shopping early for homeowners insurance due to rising costs.
  • Cal Fire Resources: Cal Fire offers maps, home inspection resources, and suggestions for creating defensible space.
  • Economic Realities: Factors like home age, and age of electrical, plumbing, and roofing systems contribute to higher rates. Inflation and increased home values also drive premium surges.
  • Catastrophe Modeling: Allowing insurers to use future risk assessments with historical data might reduce reliance on the FAIR Plan, the insurer of last resort.
  • FAIR Plan Safety Net: The FAIR Plan is crucial for many Californians amid climate-related threats.
  • Legislative Insights: Insights into legislative efforts to control insurance costs were provided by Chris Jonsmyr from Assemblymember David Alvarez’s office.

The panelists included: Cal Fire Battalion Chief Alex Elward, Sharon Smith - California Department of Insurance, 
Maureen Moran - PSAR Member & Insurance Agent, Bob Hillard - PSAR Member & Insurance Agent, and Chris Jonsmyr - Office of Assemblymember David Alvarez

Thank you to Kay LeMenager - PSAR Broker, Organizer of the Forum, and Chair of PSAR’s Government Affairs Committee who worked with the East San Diego County Government Affairs Sub-Committee to host this informative event.  

Please see this link for an FAQ from the California Commissioner of Insurance.

Topics: Education, Government Affairs, Industry

CAR RED ALERT: Attack ON Prop 13

Posted by PSAR Government Affairs on Aug 28, 2023 10:56:05 AM

Red Alert

C.A.R. strongly opposes ACA 13, a proposed state constitutional amendment. This proposal aims to make it harder for California voters to bring about changes through initiatives by increasing the percentage of votes needed to pass state and local measures. C.A.R. is against ACA 13 because it would weaken Proposition 13, potentially leading to higher taxes on homeowners and restricting their ability to prevent tax increases.

C.A.R. has issued a Red Alert, urging all California REALTORS® to contact their Assemblymembers and ask them to vote against ACA 13.

Look for the email sent to you from realtorparty@car.org with the subject line "RED ALERT: Protect Prop 13 and Voter Rights."  If you don't see it, please check your spam.

Currently, voter initiatives and constitutional amendments (except for certain taxes) require a simple majority to pass. ACA 13 seeks to change this by requiring any measure attempting to increase the vote percentage for passing local or state ballot measures to meet the same increased percentage requirement. This would impact citizen-led initiatives and not measures referred by the Legislature, creating an uneven playing field.

C.A.R. opposes ACA 13 because:

  1. It could raise the cost of buying and owning homes by weakening Proposition 13 protections. ACA 13 wants to undo safeguards set by Proposition 13, which set a 2/3 vote requirement for local governments to raise various homeowner taxes. Passing ACA 13 would make it tougher for homeowners to defend against unjust taxes.

  2. It would diminish the power of California's voters. Changing rules solely to avoid certain outcomes goes against the principles of fairness.

  3. ACA 13 would exacerbate difficulties for working families to afford homes. A recent report showed that California's housing affordability hit a 16-year low. Higher property taxes could intensify challenges for first-time buyers, hindering their transition from renting to owning. This is crucial for narrowing the state's wealth gap and aiding the diverse population in achieving homeownership and building savings.

 

PLEASE HELP DEFEAT ACA 13 – CONTACT YOUR ASSEMBLYMEMBER TODAY

Look for C.A.R.’s Red Alert email from realtorparty@car.org

With a subject line that says:
“RED ALERT: Protect Prop 13 and Voter Rights”

Topics: Government Affairs