Another Reason to Support Your Local RPAC

RPAC=Realtor Political Action Committee.  Love 'em or hate 'em, they exist and this is how politics are truly played out in state capitals (including our lovely capital of Raleigh NC).

And when you want to complain about something coming down from the legislature that affects the state, or something coming down from city hall, RPAC is a great way to get your voice heard without expending huge amounts of time (we're all strapped for time) or money (any size donation helps-because money talks).

In yesterday's Concord Independent Tribune was an article about the NC Realtor PAC's fight against a new tax on real estate sales.  In a nutshell, our lovely politicians-on the county and city levels-are pushing for the state to allow them to levy a 1% land transfer tax.  Paid when you sell a home in Charlotte NC or wherever this might be allowed, at closing. Argument being that our infrastructure is in dire need of attention due to growth (well, duh) and $$$$ is needed to pay for these improvements...

Why is real estate such an easy target?  So many of the politicos seem to think that real estate sales are totally cushioned from behavior such as this.  That the additional $600mm they would raise from this tax wouldn't negatively affect folks.  Ahem.  You're taking equity out of the pockets of sellers (many of whom have lived in one spot for years, paying their property taxes all along), making companies look elsewhere for corporate sites (this tax would hit raw land and commercial real estate as well as residential), and ultimately making buyers pay more for homes (because let's be realistic, this tax WILL get passed down the food chain).

North Carolina's Realtors are taking a stand against this tax, noting all of the above in our arguments to protect seller equity and preserve fair pricing for buyers.  The PAC is taking out ads statewide to educate consumers on the battle, and a website is up with additional info.

If real estate sales get hit with this tax, it could potentially put a damper on our market.  That means it could affect your livelihood.  How about making a donation to PAC to help carry on the fight?  It's not tax-deductible but is money well spent.  Even if you don't like how the game is played, you have to know the rules to survive. And consumers, fight right alongside us.  We're together in this fight and we need to protect your right to a solid investment in your home!

**This is a bi-partisan message.  None of my conservative leanings should affect your opinion of this article.** =)