Bill > HB1115

This bill, titled the "End Home Poaching Act," aims to prevent large institutional investors and other private entities, referred to as "residential home poachers," from acquiring an excessive number of single-family homes. Specifically, it prohibits these entities from owning or possessing interests in more than 2,000 single-family residences, which are defined as detached homes or townhouses designed for one family. Starting in 2026, these entities must report their holdings annually to the state auditor, and from 2027 onwards, exceeding the 2,000-residence limit will be illegal. Individuals who are harmed by such violations can file a civil lawsuit to recover their legal costs and either the actual damages or $15,000 in statutory damages for each home owned in excess of the limit. The bill also establishes a four-year statute of limitations for these lawsuits and allows for class-action suits, while importantly preventing government entities from intervening in these private actions, though they can file amicus curiae briefs. A residential home poacher can use an affirmative defense if they can prove the claimant only sought statutory damages and that the poacher has already paid the full statutory damages for the same violation in a separate, prior action.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72643