California State sales tax on property?

[Samuel DeMass]

I have a friend who is selling a condo in San Diego and they told me they are being hit with what they called a "State sales tax" that amounts to about 3% of sales price!

To be clear, this is something separate from capital gains tax, from the information I understood.

Having not operated in California, I can't speak to it, but it sounds absurd!

Is there any knowledge out there that enables avoiding this tax?

Any thoughts or tips are appreciated.

Thank you for your time.

-Sam