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
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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
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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)
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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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