Oregon Realtors urge support for House Bill 3746 to boost condo construction

Oregon's housing crisis took center stage at the Senate Committee on Housing and Development meeting, where the urgent need for condominium defect liability reform was highlighted as a critical step toward improving entry-level homeownership opportunities. Jeremy Rogers, general counsel for the Oregon Realtors, presented compelling statistics showing that since February 2006, the state has produced only 309 condos annually, leaving many first-time buyers without affordable options.

Rogers emphasized the frustration faced by potential homeowners who struggle to find properties within their budget. He urged the committee to support House Bill 3746, which aims to address these issues and revive the condominium market. "There was a time when condos provided a pathway into homeownership," he noted, sharing his personal experience of starting with a condo before moving to a larger home.

The discussion underscored the importance of diverse housing options for all stages of life, from first-time buyers to those looking to downsize. Without reform, the current decline in condo construction threatens to exacerbate Oregon's housing shortage, leaving many Oregonians without viable paths to homeownership. The committee's response to this pressing issue could shape the future of housing in the state, making it a pivotal moment for potential homeowners across Oregon.