Why it matters: The National Association of Realtors continues to wield significant influence in Washington with an $11.2 million lobbying investment in Q1 2025, focusing on housing affordability, tax reform, and disaster resilience legislation.
The big picture: Despite a 51% decrease from their unusually high $22.84 million Q4 2024 spend, NAR’s current expenditure aligns with their historical quarterly average of $11.6 million, maintaining their position as a powerhouse on Capitol Hill.
By the numbers: NAR has maintained an entirely in-house lobbying operation since at least 2008, demonstrating their commitment to direct advocacy with federal agencies and legislators.
Behind the scenes: Their lobbying team brings substantial government experience, particularly from key committees and offices:
- Joseph C. Harris Jr. and Shannon Flaherty McGahn both served as Staff Director and Deputy Chief of Staff for the House Financial Services Committee
- Nia Kafi Duggins was Director of Outreach for the House Financial Services Committee
- Evan M. Liddiard served as Tax Policy Adviser to former Senator Kathryn Ann Bailey Hutchison and held positions on the Senate Finance Committee
Zoom in: NAR is actively lobbying on multiple fronts:
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Housing affordability initiatives including the EB-5 Visa program and bills like the More Homes on the Market Act and HOUSES Act
Tax reform priorities defending 1031 like-kind exchanges, capital gains provisions, and supporting the Main Street Tax Certainty Act (S.213/HR703) to make the 199A deduction permanent
Disaster relief legislation including the Whole-Home Repairs Act (S.127), sponsored by Sen. John Fetterman [D-PA], and two disaster-related tax relief bills: the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act (H.R. 1491) and The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act (H.R. 517)
Property rights and regulations through the Respect State Housing Laws Act (S.470/H.R.1078), which would remove the CARES Act’s 30-day eviction notice requirement
Between the lines: NAR isn’t alone – several bills they’re pushing have attracted other industry players:
- The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants is also lobbying on the disaster tax relief bills
- The National Multifamily Housing Council is supporting the Respect State Housing Laws Act
The bottom line: NAR’s vast portfolio of policy interests and consistent financial commitment make them a critical player for anyone working on housing, financial services, or tax policy. With experienced former committee staff on their team, they maintain direct channels to key decision-makers shaping these sectors.
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