A grassroots advocacy campaign

Campaign Background In 2012 the Governor appointed a Blue Ribbon Commission on Tax Reform to make recommendations on the state’s tax code. The recommendations were presented to the Governor in late 2012 which included a variety of tax changes as well as changes that would negatively affect home ownership in Kentucky.

Campaign Background In response to the Blue Ribbon Commission, the Kentucky Association of REALTORS® contracted with the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Kentucky to conduct a study on Kentucky’s tax structure and the effect on housing and the economy. The Kentucky Association of REALTORS® also partnered with American Strategies Inc. to conduct a comprehensive survey of Kentucky voters and their attitudes toward tax reform.

Campaign Background Some in Frankfort are talking about increasing taxes on our homes, new taxes on home sales and putting home ownership out of reach by eliminating the mortgage interest and property tax deductions. As REALTORS®, we understand home ownership is critical to our communities, economy and the quality of life in Kentucky. We need to keep the American Dream of home ownership accessible and affordable for all Kentuckians.

Our Message KAR is the “voice for real estate.” Tax reform should encourage home ownership, not discourage it. Home ownership is critical to our communities and economy.

Legislative Outreach All politics is local. Quality of communication is important. Building a long-term relationship with a legislator is the most valuable thing you can do for KAR.

Community & Media Outreach Educate, Educate, Educate! Take every opportunity. Engage local business leaders….they probably share many of the same concerns. Maintain a relationship with local media and be a valuable resource.

Resources KHM website KHM Advocacy Toolkit UK Research on Tax Reform Contact legislators Petition signing Articles on tax reform Get the Facts/About the campaign KHM Advocacy Toolkit UK Research on Tax Reform American Strategies Inc. Phone Survey One page flyer KAR staff

A family’s most important investment Home ownership helps build long-term wealth and net-worth. The money you spend builds personal equity and provides the opportunity to own a home free and clear by the time you retire.

Home ownership benefits Kentucky’s economy For every two homes sold, one job is created, and each purchase generates as much as $60,000 in economic activity.

Home ownership benefits Kentucky’s economy 71% of Kentuckians own homes. That translates to 1.2 million home owners.

One page flyer Download this from the KHM website and use in your local market. The back side is blank and can be used to print local issues and concerns to help drive home that tax reform should not harm the housing industry in any way.

www.kentuckyhomesmatter.com