While I now reside in Crocker Highlands, having been a former resident of Piedmont (not to mention selling my fair share of homes here), I’d be remiss if I didn’t weigh in on Measure GG. While I suspect this ballot measure may be highly controversial, not only among my real estate peers, but also among the homeowners of Piedmont, the increase in transfer taxes is long overdue. Measure GG seeks to raise transfer taxes from $13 per $1000, to $17.50 on every Piedmont home sale beginning July 1, 2027. (If passed, this represents the first increase in 33 years.)
While no one loves the thought of paying higher taxes, it should be noted that the surrounding cities of Oakland and Berkeley already shell out MUCH higher transfer fees than Piedmont – and have for several years. In both these communities, transfer taxes work on a sliding scale, capping out at $25 per $1000 in Oakland, or $35 per $1000 if you happen to purchase your next home in Berkeley. (Holy cannoli, Batman.) It’s important to note that city taxes (unlike county transfer taxes) are usually divided equally between Buyers and Sellers.
And while few people would argue that transfer taxes aren’t already hefty (they are), the simple truth is the fees haven’t kept up with the pace of inflation. Moreover, the services Piedmont citizens enjoy are far superior to the public services of its neighboring communities. (I speak from personal experience.) From incredibly responsive fire and police departments, to beautifully groomed public parks, playgrounds, and city streets, Piedmont is truly a storybook environment. But idyllic living doesn’t come cheap.
Because there are very few commercial properties in Piedmont, city funds primarily rely heavily on the transfer and sale of residential properties. In short, the buck stops with Piedmont Homeowners who are now being asked to invest more in their community. (On balance, it’s more than a fair trade.)
So come election day, think of the long game, and then do what you believe is right if retaining the land of milk and honey rank high on your priority list. Contributing to Piedmont’s future well-being requires our continuing attention and support.