Relating to an annual study by the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center of the purchase and sale of single-family homes by certain institutional buyers.
The analysis produced by this study will include crucial metrics such as the number of homes purchased and sold, as well as the number used as rental properties. Vital information will also be compiled by city and county, alongside appraised values of the homes. By understanding the dynamics of institutional buyers, lawmakers and stakeholders will have better insights into how these entities impact local housing markets, potentially informing future legislation on housing policy.
House Bill 287 mandates an annual study conducted by the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center. This study will focus on the purchase and sale of single-family homes by specific institutional buyers, defined as entities that acquire ten or more single-family homes in a calendar year. The bill aims to gather comprehensive data on the activities of institutional buyers in the real estate market, which has become increasingly relevant due to rising concerns about housing availability and affordability.
Opponents of the bill may argue that while data collection is necessary, it could lead to overregulation of institutional investors in the real estate market. Some stakeholders might express concerns that increased scrutiny could stifle investment, particularly if the findings suggest that institutional buyers have outsized influence over housing prices or availability. Proponents, however, argue that understanding market trends is crucial for fostering a balanced housing market that serves both individual buyers and institutional interests.
The bill outlines the requirement for the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center to initiate this study and submit a report annually by June 1st, starting in 2026. This long-term approach is intended to establish a clear understanding of trends over time, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the impact of institutional buyers on the housing market in Texas.