State Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, R-Rome, says rising housing costs are one of the biggest threats facing Georgia families and argues that lawmakers must act to protect homeownership opportunities across the state.

Hufstetler said families across Georgia are finding it increasingly difficult to buy a home as large corporations and institutional investors purchase more single-family properties. He pointed to metro Atlanta, where he said institutional investors now own roughly one-quarter of all rental properties.

According to Hufstetler, the growing influence of large investment firms is forcing working families to compete with Wall Street-backed buyers for homes in their own communities.

He said the impact is already being felt, noting that the average age of someone entering a 30-year mortgage has risen to 41. Hufstetler said that trend could make it harder for many Georgians to retire by age 65 and may also cause some couples to delay starting families or even consider leaving the state in search of more affordable housing.

To address the issue, Hufstetler is backing Senate Bill 463, which would bar large corporations from owning more than 500 single-family residential properties in Georgia. The bill would also prohibit foreign companies from owning single-family residential rental homes in the state.

Hufstetler said the measure is designed to keep homes available for Georgia families rather than large investment firms.

Lawmakers are also advancing two additional housing-related bills aimed at making it easier to build homes in Georgia.

Senate Bill 437 would shorten construction review timelines and allow certified private companies to conduct certain building, plumbing and electrical inspections. Hufstetler said the bill would help reduce delays that can increase costs for future homeowners.

Senate Bill 447 would require local governments to provide clear and timely explanations when building permits are denied. Hufstetler said the legislation would improve transparency for families looking to build a home.

Hufstetler also highlighted Senate Bill 566, which he said would clarify what homeowners are being taxed on and whether they qualify for exemptions. He described the bill as a commonsense step intended to help Georgia homeowners better understand property valuation and tax issues.

Hufstetler said tackling housing affordability remains a major priority and said he hopes the measures will continue moving forward in the House.