New York and the UK are implementing new taxes on luxury properties to address the housing crisis and fund public services. While these measures aim to target the ultra-rich, experts suggest they are only a partial solution to broader issues of real estate financialization and monetary policy.
New York is moving ahead with a pied-à-terre property tax in its budget. Existing taxes from around the world's major cities show the limits of the policy.
Real estate sales in Manhattan worth $4 million or more increased in the past month, according to Olshan Realty.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a proposed 'pied-à-terre' tax on non-primary residential real estate worth over $5 million, expected to raise $500 million annually. However, appraisers and attorneys warn the tax will spark costly legal battles over property valuation, as New York's antiquated property tax system dramatically undervalues co-ops and condos. About 13,000 non-primary homes would be subject to the tax, which still needs state legislature approval.
Citadel criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after he singled out CEO Ken Griffin in a video promoting a proposed pied-à-terre tax targeting non-resident homeowners with properties valued above $5 million. The hedge fund's COO called the mayor's move 'shameful,' saying it showed 'ignorance and disdain' toward economic contributors. Citadel noted it has paid nearly $2.3 billion in city and state taxes over five years and is undertaking a $6 billion redevelopment project at 350 Park Avenue.
