During a press conference with the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS today in the state Capitol, Rep. Sue Helm (R-Susquehanna Township) joined in opposition to the governor’s budget proposal that would reduce the state’s sales tax from 6 percent to 4 percent and expand it to 74 items that are currently exempt.  As proposed, the sales tax would be charged on items related to real estate transactions. 

“We cannot put up additional barriers to prevent thousands of Pennsylvanians from becoming first-time homeowners,” Helm said.  “This tax is sure to increase the cost of purchasing a home, which could stifle the American dream across the Commonwealth.” 

Helm, a REALTOR and a broker, knows first-hand the significant costs incurred throughout the home buying process.  Under the governor’s proposal, the sales tax would be levied on numerous real estate transactions including credit reports, mortgage origination, attorney fees, home inspections, appraisal fees, title fees and construction services. 

“Buyers and sellers already pay a realty transfer tax and other governmental fees to complete a real estate purchase,” Helm said.  “In addition, with the amount of money required at closing including property taxes, the sales tax could very well put homeownership out of reach for tens of thousands of people.” 

She is hopeful that as the General Assembly works with the governor to finalize the 2010-11 state budget, the sales tax proposal will be rejected by a majority of legislators who do not want to further impede economic growth throughout Pennsylvania. 

Rep. Susan C. Helm
104th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 651-0100
(717) 787-1230
Contact:  Tim Eller
teller@pahousegop.com
(717) 260-6242
Member Site:  SueHelm.net
Caucus Site:  PAHouseGOP.com