Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay recently joined forces with sister affiliates in Sacramento for a powerful advocacy effort. Over 80 Habitat experts, including CEOs, team members, homeowners, and board members, representing 33 affiliates across 42 California counties, came together to champion affordable homeownership.
The Housing Crisis in California
The housing crisis in California continues to worsen:
- The average age for first-time homebuyers in California is now 49, compared to the U.S. average of 35.
- Only 18% of California households can afford to purchase a home.
- The projected median home price for Californians in 2025 is $909,400.
These factors, combined with increased expenses on taxes, mortgage insurance, and wildfire insurance, make affordable homeownership increasingly out of reach for many Californians.
Habitat's Unique Model
Habitat for Humanity partners with qualifying homeowners who build and buy their own homes at an affordable price. This model:
- Creates stability and financial independence
- Improves health and well-being
- Enhances educational success
- Builds generational wealth
Importantly, Habitat homes remain permanently affordable. If an owner decides to sell, the home returns to Habitat for another qualifying family.
Advocacy Efforts and Challenges
CalHome Funding
The primary focus of Habitat's advocacy was to restore funding for CalHome, the only state program that funds the production of affordable homes for purchase. Key points:
- CalHome has been eliminated in the current 2025-2026 budget.
- In the last funding round, Habitat affiliates were awarded $52.7 million, creating access to 578 affordable homes.
- Habitat is calling for a one-time $280 million investment in CalHome for 2025-2026.
- This investment could potentially help begin construction on 500 new affordable starter homes in the next 12 months.
Additional Advocacy
Habitat also supported:
- AB 226 (Calderon and Alvarez) addressing California's FAIR plan capacity for homeowner's insurance.
- A resolution to make December 29th "Carter Day" in California, honoring President Jimmy Carter's contributions to affordable housing.
Looking Ahead
While challenges persist, Habitat's collective advocacy demonstrates the power of unity in addressing California's housing crisis. The organization's efforts highlight the critical need for continued support of affordable homeownership programs to address housing shortages, boost the economy, and achieve social, economic, and racial equity in California.
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