"Tax Evasion Tactics Used by L.A. Mansion Sellers to Avoid Homeless Support"

A tax on mansion sales in Los Angeles aimed at raising funds to combat homelessness has faced resistance from wealthy homeowners, resulting in fewer sales of homes priced at $5 million and above. The tax, which took effect on April 1, has raised less money than expected, leading to cautious spending by city officials. Opponents argue that $5 million homes are not mansions in Los Angeles, while supporters believe the tax is necessary to address the city's housing crisis. Sellers have employed various strategies to avoid the tax, such as listing properties just below $5 million or dividing properties between spouses. Litigation and a potential ballot initiative may further impact the fate of the tax.