Housing Will Play Major Role in Election

An estimated 15,000 Realtors from every state converged on the grounds of the Washington Monument last week during their mid-year Legislative Meeting to make their voices heard on behalf of homeowners and real estate investors. Their goal was to demonstrate their commitment to a future of a robust real estate industry.

The rally was part of National Association of Realtors (NAR’s) week-long event, during which Realtors meet with members of Congress, federal regulators and industry experts to address pressing real estate issues and public policies in support of private property rights, homeownership and housing issues.

The economic recovery will play a large part in deciding the outcome of the 2012 presidential election, according to public policy experts during this meeting. The Realtors heard from several political strategists with their insights into issues affecting the long-term direction of the country.

Panelists offered their perspectives on the current state of the industry and identified numerous challenges impacting the availability and accessibility of mortgage financing.

"Realtors know that homeownership is an investment in our collective futures, and we're here today to protect the American Dream of homeownership," said NAR’s Realtors President Moe Veissi. "Homeownership and investment in real estate impacts families, communities, small businesses and the nation's economy in a very meaningful way."

In the current economic and political climate, Realtors are working to ensure that people who want to own a home or invest in real estate and can responsibly afford to do so will continue to have the opportunity to do that. Toward that end, Realtors are advocating 1) better access to affordable financing, 2) reform of the secondary mortgage market, 3) improved liquidity in residential and commercial lending, and 4) preservation of the tax benefits associated with homeownership.

These issues are especially important to Malibu, as the housing business is the largest and strongest industry in this city. When there is a healthy housing market, it stimulates other industries like contractors, plumbers, electrician, gardeners, designers, etc. as others gain employment each time a property is sold. Making the homes sell easier and quicker by providing more affordable financing starts the process that catapults employment for others. Additionally, property taxes are based on selling prices, so when buyers are able to secure financing allowing them to pay higher prices for the properties, it circles back to the city and county.

Your voice needs to be heard. All it takes is involvement by all through letters and face to face meetings with your legislators representing you in Washington. I encourage you to make your voice heard during this election year. 

Accountability is key to success. Please personalize your story for greater effectiveness. I suggest you forget the form letters. Then in November when those who are ultimately elected, those who win will know how the American people feel about home ownership and what the government can do to get the industry to turn around.

Beverly Taki is a California-licensed real estate broker who has represented clients in Malibu for 22 years.  She is a Malibu resident and president/broker of Seabreeze Estates Realty. Beverly has earned a certificate in dispute resolution from Pepperdine University, specializing in mediation. Taki can be reached at beverly@beverlytaki.com or 310-456-4843. Her website is beverlytaki.com.