Earlier this month, GMAR members traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the 2025 REALTOR® Legislative Meetings, joining thousands of colleagues from across the country to advocate for real estate and homeownership. This event is one of the most important opportunities for REALTORS® to speak directly with members of Congress and ensure the voice of the real estate industry is heard on Capitol Hill.

In meetings with Michigan’s congressional delegation, GMAR members focused on two central policy areas: housing supply and opportunity for all, and supporting real estate professionals. With the nation facing an estimated 4.7 million-unit housing shortage, our members urged lawmakers to support the More Homes on the Market Act to reduce the equity penalty for long-term homeowners and encourage more home listings. We also pushed for the Housing Supply Framework Act and the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act—two measures aimed at removing barriers to new development and converting underused commercial spaces into housing.

Our members also advocated for the Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act, which would increase the amount individuals can withdraw from IRAs without penalty to help with a down payment. 

In addition to affordability and access, GMAR members voiced strong support for the Fair and Equal Housing Act, which would codify protections for sexual orientation and gender identity under the Fair Housing Act, reinforcing our profession’s commitment to equal opportunity in housing.

As nearly nine in ten REALTORS® operate as independent contractors, GMAR members emphasized the importance of protecting this flexible business model. We urged support for the Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act to safeguard independent contractor status under federal labor law. 
Health care was also on the agenda, with calls to pass the Association Health Plans Act, which would give REALTORS® better access to affordable, quality insurance. Finally, members championed the Main Street Tax Certainty Act, which would preserve the 20% deduction for pass-through business income—an essential benefit for small businesses and self-employed professionals.

These meetings also highlighted the unique role REALTORS® play in federal advocacy through the Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) program. Every member of Congress is assigned a REALTOR® known as an FPC—trusted professionals who serve as the face and voice of real estate for their assigned lawmaker. Of the 15 members of Michigan’s congressional delegation, 7 are represented by FPCs who are GMAR members. This speaks volumes about GMAR’s leadership at the national level and the strength of the relationships our members have built with policymakers.
Whether serving as FPCs, holding national committee appointments, or participating in direct advocacy efforts, GMAR members continue to be a driving force in shaping real estate policy across the country. Their presence in Washington demonstrated the depth of our engagement and the impact of our unified REALTOR® voice.

We are proud of our members who represented GMAR with professionalism, insight, and passion. Their work ensures that housing remains a national priority and that the interests of homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals are protected and advanced at every level of government.