When the REALTOR® Party launched in 2012, our goal was to make every REALTOR® Association across America campaign headquarters for home ownership. Over the last five years, we have dramatically increased our grassroots activities, gaining political clout and legislative victories in every corner of the country, and state and local REALTOR® Associations have expanded their community advocacy presence.

A few weeks ago Delaware defeated legislation that threatened the state’s mortgage interest and property tax deductions. First-Time Home Buyer Savings Accounts have been passed into law in six states; and we continue to work with and educate the 115th Congress on the impact of important issues such as flood insurance, tax reform and net neutrality. More and more REALTORS® are running for public office, and we are seeing increased participation in the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC)! 

As we reflect on our tenures as Chief Executive Officer and President of the National Association of REALTORS®, we have set the organization on a course to embrace and adapt our ever-changing real estate industry. We have charted a course for not only the success of this organization, but for our members, working diligently to advocate for public policies and candidates that promote homeownership and a vibrant business environment on all levels of government. We are in excellent hands as Bob Goldberg assumes the role of CEO on August 1. His with proactive approach and innovative, bold new ideas will ensure our collective success as an organization and as REALTORS®. 

But Wisconsin REALTORS® Association CEO Mike Theo reminds us of our directive: Do not disengage at precisely the moment we, as an industry and association, need to intensely engage. As Henry Ford once said, “coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”