Government Affairs

Government Affairs is the voice of the REALTORS® in local government. Our goal is to protect the REALTORS® of San Mateo County from ordinances, rules and regulations that would be a hindrance to the success of their businesses. Government Affairs also works to advance one of SAMCAR's primary objectives: the preservation of private property rights throughout San Mateo County.

The Government Affairs staff informs and advises the Board of Directors and SAMCAR's Legislative Committees regarding pertinent land use and zoning policies, state and federal legislation, and local political issues. In conjunction with SAMCAR REALTORS®, the Government Affairs staff executes the legislative and political directives of the Board of Directors.

Government Affairs serves as a liaison between SAMCAR and the California Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®, and assists with member mobilization for state and federal issues of importance to the real estate industry.

Government Affairs Director

Fernando Peña

SAMCAR

850 Woodside Way, San Mateo CA 94401 (map)

(650) 696-8200

Published: July 29, 2014

Have You Had a Problem with Squatters?

One of the fastest growing housing issues in California is the problem of squatters taking over vacant properties. Under California law, it can take a minimum of 30 to 60 days to evict a sophisticated squatter. AB 1513 (Fox) seeks to address this obstacle in parts of the state. Cities in the Bay Area can "opt-in". SAMCAR needs to hear your "squatter stories" to determine if San Mateo County will opt in to AB 1513.