Governmental Affairs - April 26, 2023

Governmental Affairs Report

April 26, 2023

Key Housing wins in Washington Legislature

Of note: The controversial REET3 bill is dead, along with an increase in property taxes. While two condo reform bills, three bills to speed up development, two home financing bills and REALTOR® Agency Agreements bill highlight this year’s work.

Also – it appears the budget will offer over $1-billion dollars for low-income and affordable housing.

Key Victories for REALTORS®

Missing Middle Bill – mandates more housing types including duplex to six-plex units, townhouses, cottage houses, and other smaller housing types that fit within existing residential neighborhoods.
Condo Reform Exempts buildings with 12 or fewer units to streamline construction design process.
Increasing the Supply & Affordability of Condominiums Allows contractors a “Right to Cure” to fix construction issues before litigation.
Expanding housing options with ADUs. Eases barriers to the construction and use of accessory dwelling units.
Exempting Residential Sale/Leasebacks from Landlord-Tenant Act When Allows for rent back agreements for up to 90-days, and exempts them from Landlord-Tenant Act
Housing Project Streamline Regulations Two bills to help speed up city review processes.
Reducing local governments’ land use permitting workload – Has passed the House and Senate.
Improving the state’s response to climate change Adds a climate change element to the Growth Management Act.
Converting existing buildings to residential Makes it easier to convert office buildings to residential units
Covenant Home Ownership Account – Provides down payment assistance to those historically affected by housing discrimination
Expanding housing finance opportunities Expands ability of public housing authorities to re-benchmark median income limits.
Consumer “Right to List” Reduces “Right to List” agreements to 0nly 5-years.
Improve Consumer Protections in Real Estate Agency Law A first in the country, creates written buyer agency agreements, and dual agency agreements with clear disclosure for compensations.

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Greenstone begins work on 30 new housing units on Spokane's South Hill

Map of new Garden District on Spokane's Soth Hill

Work has begun on the new Greenstone development entitled the Garden District on Spokane's South Hill. Plans for commercial and mixed use will be built closer to 29th Avenue and 30th Avenue, with construction starting as early as next year.

Described as a "25-acre urban mixed-use neighborhood with a pedestrian focus and extensive trails and open space," the concept has been a popular one among nearby neighbors. The concept has been to create a walk-able and bike-able community near services. These single-family style homes are built on 33rd and 32nd Avenues in the Garden District. Plans are also in the works to build multiple apartment buildings on site as well.

Pricing online is between $420,000 and $620,000 according to Greenstone's web site.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW

Additional mixed use and commercial spaces are planned closer to 29th Avenue and 30th Avenue, with construction starting as early as next year.

See news story on the Greenstone Project here

Spokane Mayor declares April to be Fair Housing Month

The City of Spokane has joined with Spokane REALTORS® and local housing agencies in the celebration of the anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act, which has set a national policy of fair housing for all.

Spokane City Council meeting, council member Zach Zappone read the Mayor's Proclamation and presented it to Spokane REALTORS® and 2023 President Tom Hormel.

RPAC Update

Spokane REALTOR® answered the call by raising over $36,000 during its latest fundraising opportunity.

These funds help us support the REALTOR® Champions who fight for housing opportunities and property rights

Have you invested yet? Help us support REALTOR® candidates who support us!

Don't miss the next opportunity to be a part of this great movement.

For details on how YOU can play a part - contact Spokane RPAC Trustee Keri McCombs.

Email Keri.