Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address brought a refreshing dose of clarity, urgency, and opportunity to New York’s real estate landscape. As a broker deeply invested in the future of housing in Westchester and the Hudson Valley, and as President of HGAR, I applaud the Governor’s laser focus on
housing affordability, infrastructure, and sustainable growth.
For those of us on the front lines of real estate every day, this address signals real progress.
Let Them Build: Cutting Red Tape for Housing
The Governor’s “Let Them Build” initiative takes a direct aim at one of the biggest barriers to housing production: lengthy and inconsistent environmental review processes. By streamlining SEQRA for zoning-compliant projects and setting hard deadlines on environmental impact statements, the state is signaling it’s
serious about getting shovels in the ground faster.
This change is a game changer for developers and communities alike. It means more housing options and more certainty for investors, a win in a region where demand continues to outpace supply.
Investing in Housing that Serves Everyone
With $250 million pledged to accelerate affordable housing and expanded support for programs like MOVE-IN NY and manufactured housing improvements, New York understands that we need diversity in housing.
The expansion of land banks is key to revitalizing distressed properties in places like Mount Vernon and Yonkers, offering new pathways to homeownership and community stabilization.
Standing Up for Renters and Housing Stability
Reforms to the J-51 program and increased penalties for harassment in rent-regulated units will help protect our most vulnerable tenants without discouraging responsible property management.
Modernizing Utility Costs and Infrastructure
Homeowners and multifamily property owners alike should take note: utility cost reforms and potential sales tax exemptions for EV charging stations aren’t just environmental wins, they're incentives for investment in modern, efficient housing. This means long-term cost savings and market appeal for properties
that adapt quickly.
Childcare, Insurance Reform, and Affordability
As a father and business owner, I was particularly struck by the Governor’s push for universal childcare (in the Big Manzana) and her commitment to reducing
insurance burdens. Tackling rising home insurance costs and rewarding risk-reduction upgrades like fire sprinklers and security systems is forward-thinking policy that benefits both homeowners and housing providers.
What This Means for Realtors
For REALTORS® across the Hudson Valley, this year’s address aligns strongly with our mission: promoting homeownership, protecting property rights, and building inclusive communities. Governor Hochul is clearly listening to stakeholders across the board.
At HGAR, we will continue to engage with state leaders to ensure that these proposals result in real, actionable policy. And at Hollingsworth Real Estate Group,
we’re already strategizing with sellers, developers, and investors to capitalize on these coming changes. We remain always fiercely committed to Fair
Housing compliance and community empowerment.
In 2026, we are working to partner with you in housing. Give us a call. If you need help… AskHollingsworth.