May is REALTOR Advocacy Month where we do our best to spread the word about how to Vote, Act and Invest.
Let me first say that I am not political and I have recently become very passionate about a hidden aspect to us as REALTORS here in North Carolina. There are so many of us who are not aware of what we have at our finger tips, being part of the National Association of Realtors. If you weren’t already aware, the National Association of Relators (NAR), is the second strongest lobbying committee in the nation. How does this help us as Realtors? It helps us keep our industry, our clients and ourselves in a strong position politically to advocate for those who are unable or unaware of just how many potential bills and votes fall under the real estate umbrella.
Just this past month of April 2017, there were over 280 bills going through our House and Senate that were particularly tied to real estate. Sometimes, we as agents and Realtors, get so wrapped up with what is right in front of us and can neglect the larger things going on around us that will effect the future of our business. Many of these bills that could become law would impact our clients in potentially negative ways. Are we all aware of what those are? Most likely not. That is why I am speaking out to raise awareness. I understand that we all do not think that we have the time to go down and personally speak to our Representatives and Senators, but trust me, they are there to listen. Especially in times of Crossover, when many bills are finally passing the House, with a Yae or No, on their way to the Senate. These people, who we have put in power, want to hear from us because we are personally involved with many of these issues. They want to understand all sides so that they can better vote for their community.
I personally spoke to several Representatives and Senators about some of the top issues that were up for vote and could vastly effect our industry. They took the time to listen and share points of view, many voting for us and our clients, once they understood the true impact on their constituents.
The first step is to understand the issues. There are many sources open to us as REALTORS and the public. Take a few moments to understand what is coming up and find out what you can do about it. If you’ve never visited our local Legislative Building in Downtown Raleigh, take one day to go. It will open your eyes to a whole different aspect of our business.
Sign up for mobile alerts or get the mobile app, which will allow you send automatically generated letters directly to your Representatives and Senators with a push of a button. I’m sure many of you have seen the emails with the “Call To Action”. These are extremely important, as they represent a vote that is shortly coming up that could have a sever impact on our industry. Please take the time to answer these. It only takes one click and the lobbyists have already done all of the work for you, writing the letter, which you are able to change the verbiage if needed, and send directly. Just one click!
You don’t have to take my word for it, check this out to learn more and how your RPAC will best help your industry.
