Every day, Realtors help clients navigate one of the most important financial decisions of their lives. But the work of our members extends far beyond representing their clients. Through advocacy at their local, state and national associations, Realtors work to protect homeownership, defend private property rights and advance policies that strengthen communities and create housing for all.

Last month, 30 Seattle King County REALTORS® made the trek to our nation’s capital to join tens of thousands of their colleagues from across the country at the National Association of REALTORS® Legislative Meetings (RLM). RLM is an impactful event that demonstrates why advocacy remains one of the most valuable benefits of Realtor membership. The conference takes place over a week and culminates in members heading to the Hill to meet with legislators on priority issues impacting their clients, communities and businesses.

Thirty Seattle King County REALTORS® gathered in D.C. to meet with legislators on priority issues impacting their clients, communities and businesses. (via SKCR)

This year’s priorities focused on building supply and supporting independent contractors:

• Support the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R.6644) to streamline housing production and affordability by modernizing outdated housing programs, reducing regulatory barriers, expanding infrastructure investment and increasing flexibility for local communities
• Support the More Homes on the Market Act (H.R.1340 / S.3332) to decrease the equity penalty and incentivize more long-term owners to sell their homes
• Support the Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R.3526 / S.2867) to increase the amount that can be withdrawn penalty-free from IRAs for a down payment on a first home
• Support the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R.2410) to convert underused commercial properties into residential and mixed-use housing
• Support the Saving the American Dream Act (H.R.5387) to create a coordinated federal task force and advance a whole-of-government approach to solving the housing affordability crisis
• Support the Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2025 (H.R.3696) to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under the Fair Housing Act, codifying the application of the Supreme Court’s Bostock v. Clayton County decision to the Fair Housing Act, to help ensure equal housing protections for all Americans
• Support the Association Health Plans Act (H.R.2528 / S.1847) to provide REALTORS® with access to quality, affordable health care
• Support the Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act (H.R.3495) to ensure real estate agents maintain their independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act

The impact of Realtor advocacy extends far beyond the real estate profession. Policies that increase housing supply, improve affordability, and protect homeownership benefit buyers, sellers, property owners, and communities alike. Strong housing markets contribute to economic growth, neighborhood stability, and greater opportunities for families to achieve the American Dream.

These successes are made possible by Realtors who engage in the advocacy process by meeting with elected officials, participating in legislative events, responding to Calls for Action, and supporting Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC) efforts. When Realtors speak with one voice, policymakers listen.

Advocacy is more than a legislative effort, it is an investment in the future of homeownership and the real estate industry. By working together, Realtor associations continue to ensure that Realtors have a seat at the table and that the interests of homeowners, property owners and consumers are represented whenever housing policy decisions are made.

If you are interested in becoming a Realtor or hearing more about the work Realtor associations do on behalf of the industry, please contact Seattle King County REALTORS® at [email protected].

Taylor Shanaman is the government affairs director for Seattle King County REALTORS®.