Thomasson: Candidates must prioritize homeownership
George Thomasson of Lewes is the president of the Delaware Association of Realtors.
As the primary election in Delaware concludes, it’s crucial that we, as voters, carefully consider the values and policies of the candidates who seek our support in the general election. The high cost of housing continues to grow, preventing Delawareans from achieving homeownership and threatening those who do own with higher taxes and more economic uncertainty.
Promoting and strengthening homeownership is vital for the well-being of our state. Homeownership provides stability for families, strengthens our neighborhoods and contributes to the overall economic health of Delaware. It allows individuals to build equity, invest in their future and take pride in their community. However, this dream is becoming increasingly difficult to attain. Due to restrictive zoning laws, costly construction delays and the highest realty sales tax in the country, we simply do not have enough homes for all Delawareans.
Private property rights also play a fundamental role in our freedom and economic prosperity. They ensure that individuals have the ability to own, use and manage their property without undue interference from the government. This right is essential not only for personal security but also diversity in the types of housing on the market and potential investment in our communities. When these rights are respected and upheld, it encourages builders to build, prospective homeowners to buy and communities to grow, develop and innovate.
We need leaders who are committed to reducing these barriers and who will support policies that make homeownership more accessible and affordable, leaders who support reducing the highest realty sales tax in the country, constructing a more diverse housing inventory and allowing homeowners to enjoy their privacy — including opposing counterintuitive policies like rent control.
As voters, we have the power to elect candidates who prioritize these issues. I urge my fellow Delawareans to support those who are dedicated to protecting private property rights and expanding homeownership. By doing so, we can ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
