PRESENTATION: THE FIX WE'RE IN

How it affects us

High property taxes hurt Texans and Texas.

Cynics might conclude that Texas REALTORS® are simply trying to protect their own interests. With lower property taxes, they can sell more houses. However, the issues go much deeper. We're homeowners and taxpayers, too. We have children in public schools. We know that decisions made will ultimately determine whether our state continues to be a good place to live, work, and raise a family. High property taxes are hurting Texas.

High property taxes make it difficult for Texans to stay in their homes after retirement. High property taxes make it hard for young families to afford a home of their own. Texas currently ranks a dismal 42nd out of 50 states in homeownership. High property taxes are partly to blame.

High property taxes also discourage businesses from relocating to and investing in Texas.

The good news? The Texas Tax Reform Commission has a plan to lower property taxes while equitably paying for our children’s education through a low-rate, broad-based business tax. Many business organizations are realizing that, in order to move forward as a state, we must resolve the school-finance dilemma. The business community is stepping up to pay its fair share for the future of Texas.

Next: The bad ideas