When people think of real estate agents, they picture opening doors and for sale signs. But Realtors play a much bigger role—actively advocating for legislation that protects property rights and removes barriers to homeownership. When I first started my career in real estate, I focused on trying to connect with as many people as possible who might need help with buying or selling a property. As my business grew, I answered the invitation of two fellow Realtors who encouraged me to get involved with my local association of Realtors and volunteer. Thank you, Steve Alston and Norm Clay for the nudge (or chest bump) in the right direction. 

On this recent trip to Washington to attend the NAR Legislative conference, I participated in conversations about Federal Technology policy and listened how our industry is impacted by crypto-currency and block chain technology. How do we work with banks and legislators to help people buy a home? What can we do with blockchain technology to revolutionize how we handle deeds, titles, mortgages and the recording process? Our industry is thinking of these big ideas in addition to helping people negotiate repairs from a home inspection.  

At one meeting regarding Local and State Policy, I was proud to watch the crowd get restless. The Realtors who attended the forum were looking for specific, actionable steps on how to help. And the folks on the stage were speaking in broad terms. I respect and appreciate the servants who made the slide deck. I was especially proud of the Realtors who came and wanted more. This rowdiness will lead to change that will help future homeowners as Realtors go back to their market and help provide input to city and county decision makers for future housing. 

I serve on the Board of Directors for the Coastal Carolina Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The MLS sessions included conversations about current litigation we’re monitoring, future enhancements that will allow seller’s more options on how they list their property, how AI can be incorporated, and the list goes on and on. 

As the Vice Chair of the Legislative Advisory Group, I participated in meetings with our Congressman and Senator about our legislative priorities. What are those priorities? Make more money? Add commissions? Make our job easier? No. We advocated for legislation that defends private property rights, opposes excessive regulation that restricts housing supply, fights agains discriminating lending practices, and protects tax policies that reward home ownership. That list goes on and on, too. This advocacy work reflects that homeownership is about more than individual wealth building. It's about creating stable communities, providing family security, and maintaining the economic foundation of American prosperity.

I help people buy and sell property. As a Realtor, I am so much more than a salesperson- I am an advocate, guide, and an expert. I hear about the law before its passed. I am part of a group of like-minded individuals who help remove the harmful law before you ever hear about it. By protecting property rights and reducing homeownership barriers, Realtors help ensure the American Dream remains accessible to current and future generations. Realtors serve as a bridge between policy makers and the practical realities of buying and selling property. 

If you see me, please ask me about my trip to Washington! I have a lot of cool stories that include a late night tour of the capitol building along with fascinating insights from the different meetings. Special thanks to the staff at the association of Realtors (local, state and national) that helped make this happen. Huge thanks to our elected officials for being willing to talk to us and learn more about our priorities. Together we can make a difference and help people secure and keep the American dream of owning a home.