On Capitol Hill, REALTOR® Members Show They ‘R’ Here

June 17, 2026 - 18:08

Hundreds of REALTOR members gathered on Capitol Hill this week for a concentrated push on housing policy, meeting with lawmakers to defend private property rights and expand access to homeownership. The annual advocacy event, branded as "R Here" on the Hill, brought state and local association leaders face to face with congressional offices to discuss pressing issues like housing supply, mortgage affordability, and regulatory burdens.

In a series of meetings, attendees emphasized the need for legislation that reduces barriers to building new homes, particularly in high-cost markets where zoning and permitting delays drive up prices. They also pressed for reforms to the tax code that would make homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers, including proposals to adjust the mortgage interest deduction and expand down payment assistance programs.

Beyond tax and supply issues, the delegation focused on protecting the rights of property owners against overreaching government actions, such as eminent domain abuse and restrictive land-use policies that limit development. NAR leaders argued that a strong property rights framework is essential for economic stability and community growth.

The Capitol Hill visits come as Congress debates several housing-related bills, including measures to streamline federal housing programs and increase funding for affordable housing initiatives. REALTOR members urged lawmakers to prioritize bipartisan solutions that address the nation's housing shortage without imposing new mandates on the market.

The event concluded with a clear message: that the real estate industry stands ready to work with policymakers to create a more accessible and equitable housing system for all Americans.