Local Realtors travel to Washington, D.C., for pro-housing advocacy work

Thousands of Realtors from across the country recently gathered in Washington, D.C., last week to urge action on important real estate issues during meetings with senators and congressional staff on Capitol Hill. Among this group of Realtor advocates were more than 30 members of the Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors who met with local legislators and regulatory officials to protect and advance real estate-related policies and ensure that qualified buyers and investors in the Kansas City area have access to safe and affordable mortgage financing.

It’s more important than ever to recognize the importance that real estate has on the economy, accounting for more than 18 percent of the gross domestic product. Real estate has been, and remains, the foundation of wealth building for the middle class and a critical link in the flow of goods, services and incomes for millions of Americans.

The D.C. meetings gave Realtors an opportunity to meet face-to-face with decision-makers and be heard on the issues that affect the industry and consumers’ ability to buy, sell and invest in real estate. Meetings with local representatives focused on important residential and commercial real estate issues to homeowners and investors both locally and nationally, including real estate tax provisions and credit, lending and insurance policies.

Whether in Washington, D.C., the state capitols or here in our own Kansas City municipalities, Realtors are working year-round to promote pro-housing legislation. Homeownership and commercial investment help shape communities and strengthen the economy. Protection of the American Dream is a task best achieved through teamwork, and Realtors are standing together to speak with a powerful united voice.

This story was originally published May 21, 2016 at 12:03 AM with the headline "Local Realtors travel to Washington, D.C., for pro-housing advocacy work."