SDAR Supports California Middle-Class Homeownership and Family Home Construction Act of 2026

Sacramento, CA — During the recent C.A.R. Legislative Days in Sacramento, leaders from the San Diego Association of REALTORS® joined housing advocates and policymakers to support the California Middle-Class Homeownership and Family Home Construction Act of 2026, a statewide ballot initiative aimed at expanding access to homeownership for working Californians.

The proposed measure addresses one of the most significant barriers to homeownership: the down payment. By authorizing up to $25 billion in revenue bonds—not funded by taxpayer dollars—the initiative would provide qualified buyers with access to a state-backed second mortgage covering up to 17% of a home’s purchase price, helping bridge the gap for middle-income families who can afford monthly payments but struggle to save for upfront costs.

“California’s housing crisis demands real solutions,” said Karen Van Ness, President of SDAR. “This initiative is designed to increase homeownership opportunities, streamline development, and prioritize housing for working families—all without placing additional burden on taxpayers.”

Why This Matters:

•  Only a small percentage of California families can afford a median-priced home 

•  Down payments exceeding $170,000 remain a major barrier 

•  The initiative creates a pathway to 20% equity at purchase, eliminating the need for costly private mortgage insurance 

•  Funding is repaid through homeowner mortgage payments—not the state’s General Fund 

The measure is expected to appear on the November 2026 ballot, giving California voters the opportunity to directly shape the future of housing affordability in the state. SDAR emphasizes that expanding access to homeownership is critical to strengthening communities, closing the wealth gap, and ensuring long-term economic stability for families across California.

Van Ness urges the public to "contact your local and state representatives and express support for policies that expand housing access and remove barriers to homeownership. Your voice and your vote play a critical role in shaping the future of housing in California."

For more information or to get involved in advocacy efforts, please contact the San Diego Association of REALTORS® at 858-715-8000 and ask for Government Affairs Deputy Director, David Martin.