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HB 1295

Baltimore County - Transfer Tax - Exemption for First-Time Home Buyers

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Long

Withdrawn bill would have exempted first-time home buyers from Baltimore County transfer taxes to improve housing affordability.

Withdrawn by Sponsor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1295

Legislative bill overview

HB 1295 would have exempted first-time home buyers from Baltimore County's transfer tax on property purchases. The bill was introduced in the Maryland House but was withdrawn by its sponsor on March 4, 2025, before a scheduled hearing could take place.

Why is this important

Transfer taxes add to the cost of home purchases, creating barriers for first-time buyers entering the housing market. An exemption could improve affordability for new homeowners, though it would reduce county revenue unless offset elsewhere.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Baltimore County would lose transfer tax revenue on first-time home buyer transactions, requiring either budget cuts or alternative revenue sources
  • Definition challenges: Determining what qualifies as a "first-time buyer" (previous ownership history, timing requirements, income limits) can be administratively complex
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether targeted tax relief for homebuyers is the most effective affordability tool compared to other housing policy approaches

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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